UK – Northern Ireland
Sand Origin
Ballycastle beach
(with approval from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency)
Random Sand Fact
In Northern Ireland, taking someone from the area around Banagher to court was considered risky. They might have sand in their pocket.
The sand was collected at Banagher’s old church, beside a small stone tomb where Saint Muiredach O’Heney is said to rest. A little in your pocket was believed to be enough to win a court case. It was also thrown over racehorses and their riders to bring victory.
Who collected the sand mattered. According to the folklore, it only had power if gathered and handed over by a descendant of the saint.
The story of Banagher sand is still told today.
