Prime Time BBC showcase for Lower Bann Canoe Trail
11th June 2017BBC flagship programme ‘Countryfile’ showcased the Lower Bann Canoe Trail on Sunday 11th June 2017.
Ellie Harrison joined Outdoor Recreation NI’s Chris Scott for a short journey along the trail from Toome to Portna. Conditions were perfect with a following breeze and temperatures reaching 18 degrees Celsius, providing the perfect opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of Lough Beg.
“A siege of grey herons provided a great send off as we passed the Eel Fishery at Toome and as the river widened into Lough Beg the variety of bird life was amazing. It is a credit to the conservation work in the area led by the RSPB NI. It was nice to be able to demonstrate how canoeing is an ideal and non-intrusive way to enjoy such a special place” enthused Chris
Ellie and Chris were joined by Robin Ruddock from Causeway Adventures who had previously worked closely with Outdoor Recreation NI on the development of the trail. “I had written my own unofficial guide book many years ago and then Outdoor Recreation NI modernised it with waterproof guides and the CanoeNI.com website. It is great that more and more people now have the opportunity to enjoy the river.” stated Robin
The Lower Bann Canoe Trail is one of nine trails developed by Outdoor Recreation NI between 2005 – 2012. “The trails continue to be very popular for enthusiasts taking on their entire length or beginners sampling a short section. The Lower Bann in particular has become really popular with DofE groups embarking on their Silver Award expedition.” explained Chris
For more information on the Lower Bann and Northern Ireland’s Canoe Trails see Outdoor Recreation NI’s consumer website CanoeNI.com.