Exploring the diversity of The Narrows

Exploring the diversity of The Narrows

7 November 2012

AN unusual new leaflet promoting the rich heritage of the Narrows of Strangford Lough was launched on Thursday at Portaferry RNLI station.

The Narrows of Strangford Lough guide focuses on the unique stretch of water running between Portaferry and Strangford and the history behind these lough-side villages.

Illustrated by local artist Anne Anderson, it depicts the area’s captivating built heritage, coastline, wildlife and fauna.

Launched by the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the guide is part of the Turn O’ The Tide programme aimed at engaging local people with their heritage.

And with the Narrows gouged out during the last ice age, and some of the jagged rocks and seabed over 400 million years old, there is plenty of history to be explored in an area that experiences some of the fastest tidal currents in the world.

Among the guide’s features is an exploration of the maritime heritage of the area and the history behind Portaferry and Strangford’s hilly narrow streets, crammed with buildings reflecting periods of trade, commerce and smuggling.

The Vikings, tower houses and the area’s Christian heritage are all marked, and the guide also lists attractions, activities and walks.

Among the main and most striking features of the leaflet are the map and images created by Anne Anderson.

Born and educated in Belfast, Anne studied Graphic Design and Illustration at the Ulster College of Art and Design. Moving to Portaferry in 2003 she has used the natural and built environment of the area as an inspiration for her lino-cuts, such as those used in the leaflet. This medium allows her to concentrate on the pattern and quality of the subjects and shore fronts using a distinct style.

Welcoming publication of the leaflet, Caroline Nolan, from the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership, said: “This extraordinary area has some of the world’s most amazing features, from tidal currents and marine current turbine technology, to internationally important sea life and magnificent heritage buildings.

“The people of Portaferry and Strangford played a huge part in putting together the ideas for this guide, and many thanks go to them and to Anne Anderson, whose deep love for and knowledge of the area shines through in her beautiful illustrations.”

Martin McDonald MBE, from the Heritage Lottery Fund, said the leaflet was “another great product” from the Turn O’ the Tide project.

“The project team have been working hard reconnecting people with the heritage of Strangford Lough,” he said. “From literary and archaeological trails, through to hands on arts and conservation activities, the project continues to engage and involve people, young and old and demonstrate that heritage has something for everyone to get excited about.”

For more information visit www.strangfordlough.org.