The Mountains of Mourne (the Mournes) are one of Northern Ireland's greatest outdoor attractions. In September 1966, the Chairman of the Ulster Countryside Committee, Professor A.E. Muskett put forward a recommendation to the Ministry of Development who then designated the area of the Mourne Mountains and surrounding countryside as an area of 'Outstanding Natural Beauty'. Towns grouped with the title include Maghera, Castlewellan and Hilltown. Excluded from this natural beauty title are the districts of Newcastle, Kilkeel and Warrenpoint.