Trek to Freedom

ON Easter Sunday the Nephin Begers will be holding another Trek to Freedom.

Following on from last year's successful trek, following in the footsteps of Michael Kilroy and the West Mayo Flying Column though Skirdagh to Glenlaura and on to Leterkeen as the rebels retreated to the safety of the mountains as they were hunted by a large force of Black and Tans, this Sunday will continue their daring escape, visiting the Correen Caves where a number of the volunteers hid out.

The day starts with registration at Brannan's Bar in Newport between 10 and 11 a.m. Then it's off on taxis to Leterkeen where you get the chance to enjoy the breath-taking views of the Furnace, Treenbeg and Shramore areas and on to the bothy in Leterkeen.

Here, at 11.15 a.m., the Proclamation will be read, followed by an account of the Skirdagh battle and the retreat to the mountains.

At 11.30 a.m. the group will continue along the Western Way trail where all will be given a chance to carry the Tricolour. On reaching the foot of Correen Hill, an account of the rebels who sheltered in the caves above will be give. Anyone wishing not to do the climb will be led back to the bothy as the remainder walk on to the summit of Correen and some more local history.

Then it's on to the caves where all who wish will be shown inside before heading back down to the bothy for refreshments and some of Gerald Chambers' homemade boxty.

There is a fee of €15 to cover costs for the day that is payable during registration.