Video: European film highlights Upperlands hydro-electric project

One of the most progressive community groups in the Magherafelt district is appealing for volunteers.
By Stanley Campbell
Published 9th Oct 2014, 12:00 BST
Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403
Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403

Upperlands Community Association urgently needs more young people in the area to give up some free time to help.

A founding member, Dougie Lamont, said the association - best known for its successful hydro-electric turbine - told the Mail that “new blood” was essential in order for it to continue to function.

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The association was set up more than 20 years ago to re-develop the former linen mill community which had been ravaged by economic decline.

Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403
Dougie and Gemma of Upperlands Development Association.INMM4114-403

Dougie and his close friend, Clark Shiels, who died earlier this year, featured in a short film entitled ‘Common Power’, which looked at similar communities across Europe and the use of natural resources as a means of regenerating the community.

A musical variety concert in memory of Mr Shiels will be held in the Linen Hall, Upperlands, on Thursday, October 23, at 7.30pm. All proceeds in aid of Macmillan Unit, Antrim.

See full story in today’s Mid-Ulster Mail