Some acts of bravery never get mentioned in dispatches. Knocking a big hole in the gable wall of a heavily mortgaged house is one such act. Many years ago having cut my teeth glossing a few bedroom doors and fitting an outside tap, I felt the time was right to move on to more adventurous projects. Against the odds both the house and I survived. My present house has deep stone walls and unlike the property shown in the illustration has been modernised by the previous owners. Unfortunately this has resulted in the loss of many of its vernacular features but it's warm and snug and I've been warned to leave it alone. Restoring an old stone house is a far greater undertaking than fitting a set of patio doors. Luckily there is plenty of sound advice available. Earlier in the year I attended a talk organised by the Mourne Heritage Trust focusing on the value and extent of our built heritage. The accompanying booklet 'Traditional Buildings in Ireland" outlines the correct procedures for renovating and maintaining a vernacular building whilst retaining its character and charm. It also contains case studies and advice about employing skilled professionals. This excellent book is part of a wider programme aimed at retaining and utilising the old buildings that remain, promoting the development of associated building skills and protecting the character of the Mournes. Success has resulted in the Mourne Homesteads project being selected to compete in the regional finals of the National Lottery Awards. You can show your support for this important work by ringing 0845 434 6819 on or before 10th October to automatically register a vote. To date nearly 300 people have been taught traditional building skills in the Mourne area, as far as I know none of the participants have gone home and knocked out a big hole in their gable wall, if any have at least they now know how to do it properly.
You can contact Eamonn by logging on to www.mccroryart.com