Trek from Blackwater source captures its spirit

A retired schoolteacher who spent a week walking the River Blackwater from its source as a stream in Kerry to its exit at Youghal in Co Cork has written a book on his adventure.

Walking the Munster Blackwater by Jim O’Malley also deals with the history, geology and wildlife of the river and hears from those who make a living on the waterway, particularly anglers, farmers, and publicans along with B&B providers.

Youghal-born, he taught English and Irish in Dublin and Killorgin, retiring in 2007. He lives in his wife Kathleen’s hometown of Beaufort in Kerry.