Since prehistoric times, humans have marvelled at the brilliant colours and patterns in the sky at sunrise, conjuring myths and legends in an attempt to explain these spectacular displays.

Ancient cultures worldwide created stories of deities and demons traversing the skies in a perpetual war between good and evil, darkness and light.

The Celtic culture viewed sunrises as a rebirth or reawakening — a conquering of the forces of darkness — with the spirits of nature granting the world a new day of life.

Mariners still read the skies for hints of winds and weather in the cloud formations and colours (Red sky in morning, sailor take warning.)

If you're like me, amazing sunrises like those I see here in County Clare are reminders to take a moment and appreciate the natural beauty that remains in our world.

No matter your religious or spiritual beliefs, my hope is that you find many moments of peace and tranquillity in these images.