As part of the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Project – aimed at recognising and highlighting the valuable natural, built, historical and cultural heritage of the unique cross-Border area – the first event in the project is a free heritage talk to be presented by local geologist and caver, John Kelly.

Taking place today (Thursday, May 5) at 8pm at Trivia House, Swanlinbar, with no booking required, John will share his fascinating knowledge on ‘The Iron Makers’, looking at the environmental, commercial and cultural impact and legacy of iron-making around the mountains.

The insightful talk is just part of the project’s overall aims, as it seeks in part to engage with local experts on a wide range of topics, including the industrial heritage of iron-making; rare species, plants and habitats; prehistoric Atlantic rock art, and the planned bi-centenary events in the area marking the1834 Ordnance Survey of Ireland.

SEE ALSO: Perfect Pet winner donates £250 prize to animal sanctuary

The project is led by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council; Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark; and Collaborative Action for the Natura Network (CANN) project.

The CANN project is funded by the EU’s INTERREG VA Programme, through the Special EU Programmes Body to the tune of €9.4 million. The CANN project is also match-funded by the Department of Agriculture.

The inspiration for the Cuilcagh-Slieve Anierin Project came from a recently developed Heritage Legacy Delivery Plan by the Cuilcagh to Cleenish: A Great Place (C2C) project.

The project will focus on a range of co-designed activities including talks, guided walks and events with communities around the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin iplands in Fermanagh, Cavan and Leitrim, including Florencecourt, Glangevlin, Arney, Dowra, Ballinaglera, Ballinamore, Belcoo, Blacklion and Drumshanbo.

Barney Devine, Local Co-Ordinator for the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Project, said: “The recent Heritage Legacy Delivery Plan by the Cuilcagh to Cleenish (C2C) project has led to heritage activity with local communities around Cuilcagh, and this project aims to further enhance this engagement on both sides of the Border.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural, cultural, built and archaeological heritage of the area through an exciting variety of projects and events involving local heritage experts within communities.”

For further information about the project, including specific information on events and community initiatives, contact Barney at barneydevine@gmail.com, or at 0773 484 7470.