Book excerpt: County Armagh, the Orchard County, abounds in folk tales, myths and legends and a selection of the best, drawn from historical sources and newly recorded local reminiscence, have been brought to life here by local storyteller Frances Quinn.Armagh is the place where, legend has it, the warrior king Conor Mac Nessa once ruled and where Deirdre of the Sorrows met her lover Naoise. It is where St Mochua’s Well was said to curse, not cure and where evidence of St Patrick’s disagreement with a bull can still be seen. And it is where Mrs Lester lived to a ripe old age – many years after her burial. It is also said to be the home of a plethora of strange and magical creatures and stories abound of encounters with fairies, dragons, ghosts, witches and even a giant pig. From age-old legends and fantastical myths to amusing anecdotes and cautionary tales, this collection is a heady mix of bloodthirsty, funny, passionate and moving stories. It will take you into a remarkable world where you can let your imagination run wild.