On 2nd March 2019 25 brave and hardy members of the club completed a 6.5 mile walk following the Bannadoo trail at Killeter forest near Castlederg. The weather forecast was for heavy rain and sure enough as soon as the walkers set of from Big Bridge it started and lasted all morning. The Bannadoo trail is a circular walk that uses forest and country roads and passes the picturesque Loughahull [a limestone lake ] which was once overlooked by one of the summer residences of the Caledon family known as Derg Lodge. By the 1930s the Caledons ceased using the Lodge and it was acquired by the Forestry and in 1966 was passed to Tyrone education committee to be used as an outdoor centre however this was cut short as it was extensively damaged during the early years of the “Troubles”. Other places of interest include Killeter national nature reserve [an area of special scientific interest in Bogland], Fr McLaughlins well, and Mullyfamore Bog Restoration Project. After the drenched walkers returned to their cars, they made their way to Killeter village to have well-derserved tea and scones in the church hall which was provided free by the Border Arts group in Castlederg. Despite the weather an enjoyable morning was had by all.
