News

Amazing attraction

A new tourist attraction marking Buncrana's links with one of the

world's best-loved hymns has been opened in the Co Donegal town.

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was joined by DUP junior minister Jonathon Bell at the launch yesterday of the Amazing Grace viewing platform.

The hymn was written after composer John Newton reached the safety of Lough Swilly following an Atlantic storm.

Mr McGuinness said: "Opening the viewing point today reminds us that history is part of our past but it also shapes and helps to build our future."

Mr Bell said: "It is extraordinary to think that John Newton's safe delivery to these shores at Buncrana on that fateful night of 8 April 1748 inspired him to write one of the most well known and best loved hymns in the world," he said.