THE DRAMATIC geology of Iceland was explored when Rafn Kjartaansson gave a presentation to Forum 2000 in Horsforth.
Rafn, an Icelander, also taught everyone how to pronounce unfamiliar words and translate names of people and places.
A spokesperson for the event said: "His pictures revealed a petrified landscape reminiscent of Tolkien’s Mordor, habitable only around the coastline. Its glaciers are melting and the landscape will change. Interestingly two tectonic plates moving apart are splitting the country in two. It is a world of geysers, active volcanoes and lava flows such as the one which nearly blocked the harbour entrance to Reykjavic, saved by spraying sea water to set the lava.
"Driftwood from Siberia makes up for the absence of trees, cut down by Viking settlers who eventually introduced sheep but its economy remained poor until a fishing fleet was established. The UK invaded it in the war to prevent its falling into German hands and provided an airport, resented because it occupied valuable building land, a scarce commodity.
"Its geothermal heating and hydroelectric generation could be exported and enrich the country but politicians are slow to capitalise on it. With its attractive towns and successful tourist industry they are probably wise.
"Rafn was a genial and entertaining guide and one could see why he had been funded to become an educator in community development. A most interesting morning."
The talk planned for May 4 will now take place on May 18 as the centre was not available. The next talk will be on May 11 when Uell Kennedy will return to Forum 2000 with The History of Scottish Nationalism. Forum 2000 meets every Wednesday from September to May at 10am in The Grove Centre, New Street, Horsforth, LS18 4BH. Entry of £3 includes refreshments.
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