The following week on 11th July The Minister of Transport, Hon. David Anderson, MHK, visits the site along with his Department colleagues. The party consisted of Tim Crookall, MHK who holds the Footpath Portfolio, Juan Turner, MLC., Bruce Hannay Director of Highways, William Corlett. Operations Manager and Anna Goldsmith, Rights of Way Officer and Mark Leadley.

Pausing at the top of the steps to say a few words of thanks

During his visit the Minster took the opportunity to thank Mr James Curphey, the landowner, for his co-operation and the MFCG Task force team for their hard work in providing the much needed link in the Heritage trail long distance footpath. An act which has engendered much goodwill in the Island.

The party descend the steps

Everyone involved enjoyed creating a permanent feature and the opportunity of doing something that will be of use to all.

"Long after we have gone there will be a red line on the map of the Island to show where we have been!"
Fred Hodgson. Task Force Liaison.

"A wonderful effort has been made by all and it has been a great achievement, which shows the potential of volunteer work on Public Rights of Way."
Anna Goldsmith. Public Rights of Way Officer. Department of Transport

Fact file for those who like these things.

The work took around 150 man hours. Nearly 400 linear metres of scrub and gorse were cleared to an average width of 2.5 metres.

A total of ten ramps and sixty six steps were built using only hand tools, timber, nails and screws. No Theodolite, just a spirit level, and a keen eye together with a sense of humour and direction.

We have produced a small book about our work on the Glen Mooar Link. It is available on BLURB here
 

With Joiner Mark in pride of place

To the bridge at the bottom

Before climbing back the way they came