The Chronicles of Belfast S01E04 - Winter

Despite the challenges of the cold wet weather, there is a lot going on in the wilder parts of the City. We learn of the challenges water brings in Belfast and the work done to prevent the City flooding and to control the tide.

But increased rainfall also brings fossils down from the hills and in Colin Glen, Alannah and Paul search the river, finding signs of life that's over 180 Million years old. As the weather gets colder, animals at St James' community farm get extra bedding. We learn how the farm by the Westlink relies on volunteers and the sale of donated aluminum cans. Sustainability is also found on Terry's urban mushroom farm, as he gathers waste sawdust from a saw mill, to make a perfect growing compound.

On Black Mountain, Aaron has organised a team of school children to plant 100 trees. The forest will provide more habitats for birds and mammals and stop bracken taking over. Aaron's conservation work on the hill is recognised later in the programme when he wins an award.

On the Braniel estate we meet glass artist Dagmara. She has turned her garden into a personal nature reserve. As winter revellers enjoy the city's night life, wildlife has also come out to play, in Dagmara's garden and in the woods watched by Ronald, who has looked after a badger set for years.

At St James' community farm it's the annual Christmas light switch on. It's so bright it can be seen from the Royal Victoria Hospital where one of the farm's volunteers Bap, has a relative receiving treatment. Bap talks about how working with animals and nature can provide a lifeline to people who are struggling.