Bath cries for help

Makeshift steps lead to the renowned Bath Fountain in Bath, St Thomas, where hot water springs from rocks.

People from all over the world visit the area to access what is referred to as the 'healing water' of the spring.

Some residents of Bath offer their services as masseuses or, as they call themselves, healers.

The once-welcoming gift of nature has, however, lost much of its flair.

The waters have managed to gather much debris, while abandoned clothes and bags of garbage lay idly by the riverside.

Forty-nine-year-old Derrick Walcott, a self-styled healer of nearly 30 years, told The Gleaner that the area has been deteriorating for a number of years.

"It has just gotten worse. They have improved down by the hotel and spa, where there is formality and sophistication, but here in the mountain, where people are more fascinated with, also needs to be taken care of. It needs a caretaker to ensure the place looks more sanitary and welcoming," he said.

IMPROVING CONDITIONS

Walcott said that restrooms should be created along the mountainside to facilitate those who choose that route.

"I'm not saying we should take away the natural feel. The beds can be made with these same stones and a little cement. I'm not trying to take away from the business down bottom either, but people love it up here. Nowadays, they are turning back when they see the condition of the place. There needs to be an intervention," Walcott said.