It may be a bridge too far for the faint-hearted but a new incarnation of one of Northern Ireland's most enduring attractions reopened yesterday.
The £50,000 rope bridge at Carrick-a-rede in Co Antrim is a safer version of the bridge fishermen have erected at the start of the fishing season for more than 200 years. Despite the addition of safety ropes and gangway netting, thrill seekers can still get their kicks, according to its owners, the National Trust. "Fortunately, we never had any serious accidents involving the old bridge, and even though this new one will be safer it will be just as thrilling to cross," said Mr Chad Townsend, the trust's north Antrim property manager.
Up to 100,000 people a year visit the swaying tourist attraction used by the tourist board in a recent campaign. Carrick-a-rede is a huge hunk of volcanic rock in the path of migrating salmon. The bridge was originally erected to carry fish to Ballintoy.
Crossing the bridge empty-handed was an achievement for some, although two American children rejected the notion that walking on wood and rope 80 feet above jutting rocks could be nerve wracking. "It was weird and wobbly, but great fun," said Brian Alan (7) from Seattle after skipping across. "It's really fun, I wasn't scared," added his sister, Mackenzie (10).
Mr Adrian Jones was so relaxed he posed for photographers when half way across. Jones, a member of the Royal Airforce, was part of the 230 squadron from Aldergrove, which hoisted the bridge materials onto Carrick-a-rede. "It's not as bad as being in a helicopter," was his verdict.
Despite claims from the manufacturer, Heyn Engineering, that the bridge can hold 10 tonnes, some needed time to find the courage to cross.
The return journey was another story - talk about being between a rock and a hard place.
Carrick-a-rede rope bridge is open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily until mid-September (weather permitting). Car parking costs £2.50.