Life

Outdoors: Help clean up river from which Belfast gets its name

The goldcrest is just one of our native birds that produce wonderful singing
The goldcrest is just one of our native birds that produce wonderful singing The goldcrest is just one of our native birds that produce wonderful singing

TODAY sees the Belfast Hills Partnership organise a massive team effort to clean up a section of the river Farset – the waterway from where Belfast gets its name.

It's part of the Farset Project and as well as clearing the area of rubbish, there will be a spot of wildlife survey work and the building of a number of bug hotels at the north Belfast location.

The meeting point is Ballysillan leisure centre car park at 10.30am before heading over to the river together to help clean it up. Wear Wellington boots or other waterproof footwear as the task involves getting into the river at some points. Suitable outdoor clothing is also recommended – clothes you don't mind getting wet and mucky.

All other necessary equipment and refreshments will be provided, say the organisers; the clean up will finish at 1pm.

BIRD IDENTIFICATION COURSE

NEXT month the sees the Belfast Hills Partnership also roll out nature training in the form of bird identification by song. This course running on Wednesday May 11 from 10am to 1pm is for people who often wonder what birds are filling the air with song but find it difficult to pinpoint a species.

Bird expert Aidan Crean will lead the training with a brief indoor session at the Rathfern Social Activity Centre in Rathcoole, Newtownabbey, before heading out on to nearby Carnmoney hill to listen and look for birds to identify.

Bring binoculars if you have them – some are available on loan – and any bird identification books.

Dress for the weather with plenty of warm layers, waterproofs and sturdy boots.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided. The course must be booked in advance and numbers are limited.

:: For further details email lizzy.pinkerton@belfasthills.org or call 028 90 603 466.