CROSSMAGLEN is trying to shake off its chequered past by launching a "Colourful Past Confident Future" initiative aimed at stimulating the area's economy.
The Crossmaglen and Slieve Gullion area in south Armagh - a region once known as 'Bandit Country' and inextricably linked with violence - is undertaking a high-profile promotional campaign to highlight the positive programmes, activity and efforts being made by communities and agencies to stimulate the development and growth of the area.
There are two central strands to the initiative - the economic regeneration of Crossmaglen and south Armagh, as well as a village renewal plan for Cross, Culloville and Creggan.
The economic regeneration plan, launched in conjunction with Newry and Mourne Council, represents a strategic vision to benefit and further the area in terms of future economic, tourism and investment priorities.
It sets out recommendations and projects to be taken forward for the greater rural regeneration of the area over the next 10 to 15 years.