At 80 miles, the River Bann is Northern Ireland’s longest waterway, but its significance is much greater than that mere geographic fact.
t is effectively seen as a manifestation of the cultural and political divide which has riven this state since its formation 100 years ago.
Today we study how political parties have their power bases on opposite sides of the river and how they have developed over the past century.
Now two adventurers are to walk the length of the river exploring its diversity in all its forms.
Dr Craig Jordan-Baker and Cherry Smyth, who both have local links, will meet ecologists, archaeologists, writers and those who live along the river or make their living from it during their eight-day odyssey.
The history of the River Bann as well as its present importance to farmers and eel fishermen should provide the two walkers with a fascinating insight into life in this part of the United Kingdom, and hopefully will be recorded in book or broadcast form.