Mourne Forests Volunteer Team launched at Bunkers Hill Community Barbeque

Bunkers Hill, in the heart of the Castlewellan community, has become well known as a place to play, walk and take in spectacular views of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains. On Saturday 8 August, over 300 people gathered to take advantage of the excellent vantage point provided by Bunkers Hill to see the action provided by this year’s B/E Aerospace Festival of Flight.

Speaking about the event, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Naomi Bailie said, “There is a huge feeling of community ownership and enthusiasm for Bunkers Hill since the facilities were developed by Down District Council and Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland in 2014. I am delighted that the community barbeque was a great success, it provided a great, fun opportunity not only to plane spot and devour all the delightful food, but it also encouraged more people to get involved in community volunteering at both Bunkers Hill and the walking trails in Castlewellan Forest Park.”

Barbeque champ for the day and Chairman of Castlewellan Community Partnership, Felix Blaney said, “The barbeque here at Bunkers Hill has been a fantastic event with loads of families enjoying the good food and the social interaction which is sadly lacking these days. Big thanks to Boyd McClurg, Mourne Forests Recreation Officer who was responsible for organising the barbeque and launching the drive to recruit volunteers. Congratulations is extended to all those who got involved. I hope the Mourne Forests Volunteer Team really takes off.”

The Mourne Forests Volunteer Team meets every month to help care for Castlewellan Forest Park and Bunkers Hill. It is a great social opportunity for active, enthusiastic people who enjoy the forests, wildlife, wildflowers and a bit of photography.

For more information or to get involved contact Boyd McClurg, Mourne Forests Recreation Officer on 028 4377 0296, 078 3327 6878 or email boyd@mourneforests.com.