Despite desperate weather conditions a few NICB graduates braved the elements on Sunday and rose to the challenge of the 'ascent' on Black Mountain. Led by National Trust warden, Dermot McCann, the group availed of his wealth of knowledge on the history, terrain and bio-diversity of one of the diamonds (albeit rough) of the National Trust's Northern Irish treasures. The day started under a squall of rain but as clouds dispersed, soon brightened up, although the wind was unrelenting. We visited the remains of ancient settlements and learned about modern methods such GPS Satellite Tracking systems that are being used to uncover the secrets of bronze-age living conditions and burial sites. We saw the wonders of reptile reproduction as thousands of frogspawn scurried around in little pools and evidenced their future fate through the remains of little bones left by hungry birds after they had snatched whole frogs and eaten them on top of nearby tree stumps. We watched the Mourne mountains emerge from behind a dull misty skyline until the peaks and slopes were clearly visible to the naked eye. Dermot led us across the 'plastic road' laid over the blanket bog and explained that it had just recently been re-positioned by volunteers from the PSNI training college. He showed us the dangerous bog at the edge of the road by easily pushing a four foot walking stick into the mud like a hot knife through butter. Dermot pointed out the looming Divis Mountain with its now unmanned military communications post and told us of the fantastic views that can be see from its peak, right into Co. Donegal. Passing the 300 foot plus 'BBC' aerial we trekked on toward the peak of Black Mountain and were rewarded with an awesome panoramic view across Belfast City out toward the Ards penninsular and out into the Irish sea. We could make out many, many well known landmarks and were surprised to see that the city looked so small from up there. We wondered at the fact, and as to how, such a small city had held world news headlines for so many years. As we stood at the viewing platform overlooking five of the counties of Northern Ireland, as representatives from the NI Probation Board, Police and Community, the irony was not lost on us.
After a short break for tea, drinks and even sandwiches we made our 'descent' as Dermot enthralled us with even more historic and environmental snippets and with the sun now shining on us. All in all it was a great day out. Another walk has been suggested, this time along the tow-path and back into Belfast (ending at the John Hewitt). This has yet to be arranged. Details will be posted here for those interested. Many thanks to Dermot for his guided tour and congratulations to those that participated. Well Done!!
