Hit a Trail near you - National Trails Day 2009 - Sunday 4 October
Tuesday, 29 September 2009Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew, MP, MLA is encouraging people to put their boots on, make a picnic and hit the trail on Sunday 4 October for a great day out enjoying nature.
National Trails Day is a celebration of the wonderful variety of trails in Ireland, north and south, and provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy some of our most beautiful countryside, forests, mountains and lakes. And even better, entrance to all events on the day is free!
Speaking about her enthusiasm for National Trails Day, the Minister said: "I am particularly pleased that our own Forest Service are taking part in the all-Ireland event. I want to encourage everyone to visit forests, experience the beauty of the natural environment and enjoy some healthy exercise.’’
Announcing details of the events being hosted by Forest Service, the Minister said: "I welcome the opportunity to offer the public free entry to our forests on National Trails Day. I hope this encourages people to come out and enjoy our many beautiful forests and scenic trails. We also have a number of events taking place, some in association with partner organisations, but all free of charge. These are varied in nature and include guided nature walks, family cycling, pony trekking and red squirrel fun days.’’
Events taking place on Forest Service land in your local area include;
Co Antrim Glenariff Forest Park Waterfall walk in the ‘Queen of the Glens’
Co Antrim Portglenone Forest Woodland trail walk
Co Antrim Glenariff Forest Park Forest trail pony trek
Co Armagh Gosford Forest Park Family cycling along forest trails
Co Down Hillsborough Forest Birds and wildlife of the forest
Co Down Tollymore Forest Park Red Squirrel fun event
Co Fermanagh Castle Archdale Forest Family cycling through forest
Co Fermanagh Lough Navar Forest Geopark guided nature walk
Co Londonderry Ballykelly Forest Woodland trail walk
Co Tyrone Gortin Glen Forest Park Red Squirrel fun event
A full listing of events and contact details are available www.nationaltrailsday.ie and www.nationaltrailsday.co.uk.
With events right across the country, there is something for everyone, so lace up your boots and join us for a fun filled day on a trail near you!
Notes to Editors:
1. This year, National Trails Day will be an all-Ireland event. The North’s Forest Service will be participating, along with the South’s Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Coillte, National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council and Failte Ireland.
2. There are nine forest parks in Northern Ireland which provide car parking, picnic sites, a range of walks and attractions. In addition, there are over 100 forests that provide some recreational facilities including woodland walks.
3. Forest Service has recently published a Recreation and Social Use strategy, in consultation with stakeholder groups, National Trails Day supports the strategic aim of providing greater recreation provision in our forests.
4. All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
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