Days when ice was enjoyed by many

Rev Dr Gordon Gray shared with listeners of BBC Radio Ulster’s Thought for the Day how a remarkable ice rink, created by his grandparents, brought enjoyment to hundreds each winter for a number of years more than a century ago.

The story of the unique “ice carnival” was also documented in the News Letter in February 1900, accompanied by a fascinating photograph of Mr and Mrs Robert Gray on the rink they created on their farm for the enjoyment of others.

The newspaper article describes the week-long annual event - which appears to have taken place for a number of years - as a time when many “indulge in that most excellent of winter pastimes - skating”.

It describes how Mr Gray, of Station Farm, Dunadry, “so generously flooded his field regardless of any inconvenience to himself, in order that none should be disappointed who annually anticipate an enjoyable time on this popular skating rink.”

It seems that the ice rink was, indeed, quite a popular draw, attracting skaters from far and wide.

The story tells how the Belfast and Northern Counties Railway not only issued cheap tickets daily and stopped the late train at Dunadry each evening, but when a fall of snow covered the ice at one stage, they sent men and brushes down from Belfast to clear the ice.

“Saturday was a red-letter day for the crowds who availed themselves of a few hours on the ice. Each train brought hundreds from Belfast, and by the evening the ice was well covered and many were the amusing scenes witnessed by the onlookers.

“In the evening the moon proved an agreeable friend to us,” the report reads.

At Dunadry station, too, the ice patrons were well looked after. A Nathaniel Davidson provided “excellent refreshments” daily, adding to the enjoyment of the participants.

The skaters were so grateful to Mr and Mrs Gray that they were presented in January 1903 with a silver teapot bearing the inscription “from a few friends who enjoyed good skating”.

Memories of this fascinating ice may now be long gone, but Dr Gray, who lives in Ballycastle, and his sister - Mrs Marlene Steele, who lives in Larne - are keen to hear from anyone who may have further information.

Anyone who can help with their quest is invited to contact Mrs Steele on 2827 3742 or Rev Gray on 2076 9722.