Some snippets from Belfast

On Patrol With the Royal Ulster Constabulary

One of the most dangerous occupations in the world was being part of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. These officers have been targeted over the decades by the IRA and other paramiltary groups and 300 have been killed. I went on patrol with the RUC in Belfast and the nearby town of Bangor. I felt pretty safe in the armoured Land Rover Tangi until one of the officers mentioned drogue bombs. "What's a drogue bomb?" I asked. I was told it was a nasty device that could poenetrate armour and incinerate anyone inside the vehicle. I didn't ask any more questions for a while ...

British Army Foot Patrol

I can't remember the street I was walking down in West Belfast but I do recall the situation. I was minding my own business and taking photos when in the distance I saw a British Army foot patrol heading towards me. To my left was a block of derelict flats, that would be the perfect spot for someone wanting to take a potshot at the soldiers. And of course who would be the first person spotted in such an instance? Yup, poor old me. Anyway, on my right was a two-metre high brick wall that - considering I was carrying about 20 kilos of camera gear - would have proven just a little bit much for me to clamber over in the event of trouble. So as the British patrol closed I made sure it was pretty obvious I was carrying cameras and as they got near I said in an exagerrated Aussie accent "Gidday mates!" They nodded and walked by. I continued my exploration very much relieved.

- Richard Moore