Monday 6 July 2015

Neave or Coomb


Eilean Neave or Coomb Island is off the Sutherland coast and its name derives from 'nemeton' - a clearing in a grove for tribal meetings or sacred enclosures. This points to the 'Coomb' alternative - a contraction of St Columbus who gave his name to the chapel and monastery founded there. There has never been a secular settlement, owing to the lack of freshwater supplies. Some rock formations at the south end of the island create a 30' high jet of water when the wind and tides are in a certain direction.This turbulence and spouting can lead to a fierce discharge of water on the eastern side, accompanied by the sound of an explosion usually associated with a cannon.


Scottish Islands Explorer - discharges information on a regular basis

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