Swept by strong ocean currents and ferocious storms, Rathlin Island is mysterious and hauntingly beautiful. Lying just six miles off the north coast of County Antrim, it is the most northerly inhabited island of Ireland. It was once home to prehistoric hunter-gathers. Its inhabitants have endured Viking raids, medieval massacres, famine and emigration. They have always been farmers, fishermen and seafarers. They are resourceful, independent and proud, and they have always enjoyed a good story.

Drawing on Irish and Scottish traditions, Rathlin has a rich folk heritage which may have been all but lost but for one man. Tommy Cecil, most famous for rescuing Sir Richard Branson after his hot-air balloon ditched into the dark swirling waters off Rathlin, was instrumental in saving the island's stories. Taken from recordings held in Ulster Folk Museum, this unique book brings his stories and those of other islanders to print for the first time.

The first collection of Rathlin Island folk tales in print, reworked from recordings made by local hero Tommy Cecil.

About the Author
Colin Urwin is a modern-day Seanchai. He is a folk-singer, songwriter, oral storyteller, and author of a number of folktale collections. Steeped for a lifetime in the language, folklore and traditions of his beloved Glens of Antrim, Colin has long been exposed to traditional Irish and Scottish music, song and story. He is most inspired by the people and places, the history and legends, and the sheer, rugged romance of the northeast coast of Ireland. From these he conjures up many of his beautiful ballads, magical rhyming monologues and delicately woven tales of wonder. Colin regularly appears at local storytelling and music events for schools, libraries, a wide range of community and business groups, and at international storytelling festivals and conferences all over the world.


Book Information
ISBN 9781803998183
Author Colin Urwin
Format Paperback
Imprint The History Press Ltd
Publisher The History Press Ltd