Newtownards Bloom Magazine - June 15

magazine !

I

FREE

ARDS

NEWTOWNARDS ISSUE 02 JUNE 2015

www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Bloom Magazine Belfast

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BloomMagBelfast

www.worthingtonslaw.co.uk

LEGAL NEEDS

For Free Initial Advice call

0800 052 1526

n Personal Injury Claims n Road Traffic Accidents n House Sales & Purchases BELFAST Cathedral Quarter 24-38 Gordon Street T: 028 9043 4015

n Matrimonial & Family Law n Wills and Probate n Employment

NEWTOWNARDS 2 Court Street T: 028 9181 1538

email info@worthingtonslaw.co.uk

n Commercial Property n Asbestos Claims

Welcome Hello & welcome to the June edition of Bloom.

With all the local support we made it to a second issue!

Hopefully by now you can start to see what we are all about. We are all about promoting Newtownards in a bright positive format.

Contents 04 09

LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL AREA

BLOOMING GREAT TEA PARTY MARIE CURRIE

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WHAT A FIND

Please feel free to get in touch to let us know of any news or events happening. Maybe its to do with your church, your child's school? Maybe you run a local youth group?

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PROPERTY BLOOM

If it's happening in Ards we want to know about it. Bloom is a magazine for your community, so get involved!

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

18

COOK BOOK

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THE GOOD LIFE

Enjoy!!

Angela ^ Visit us online at: www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Find us: City East Business Centre 68-72 Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 1GW www.bloommagazine.co.uk

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SOUTH STREET PRECINCT

LANYON PROPERTY

ROAMER HOLISTIC

VITAL NUTRITION

STEPHEN MOORE

COMBER POTATO FESTIVAL DIARY DATE

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WHAT’S ON COCKLE ROW

Contact: Angela Campbell | angela@bloommagazine.co.uk | 07719 104862 Designed by:

Stephen Sharpe - SHARPEART.COM Barry McGovern - KUBRIX.COM

Printed by: Nicholson Bass Distributed by: Speedpost NI

Connect with us: Terms & Conditions: Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or WALL Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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News ANY NEWS? GET IN TOUCH!

JUNE 2015

angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

Bloom Magazine Belfast

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ARDS WELCOMES FIRST BUBBLE TEA SHOP IN NORTHERN IRELAND Sugar Cube Coffee Shop opened in April 2015 bringing a fun fresh twist to the coffee shop scene.

We are proud to be the only Bubble Tea Shop in Northern Ireland!! Our focus is bringing you good food with excellent customer service. We offer a wide range of food from frys, salads, sandwiches, homemade soup, Daily Specials, cheesecakes, traybakes and cupcakes.

We also offer outside catering and personalised cupcakes/ cheesecakes. Our produce is sourced locally and we firmly believe in supporting local businesses. Look us up on Facebook and Twitter for our daily specials and look at what we are about!

CADETS FLY HIGH WITH A TASTE OF THE OUTDOORS Teenage Army Cadets from Dundonald and Ards have been finding out how to survive in The Great Outdoors with a week-long camping expedition.

Adventure training by day and sleeping under canvas by night proved the perfect ingredients for a memorable trip, as Colonel Maurice Warnock from 2nd (NI) Battalion Army Cadet Force explains, “Our Cadets know how to enjoy themselves and they relish every challenge – mental or physical – that we throw at them.

“Camping is one of the most popular elements of Cadet life, and not only with Cadets. Mums and dads are delighted to see their youngsters leaving the computer and tv behind and opting for something which is altogether more challenging and rewarding. They know that the kids will be in great company and will be professionally supervised as they enjoy an incredible range of activities and experiences, all of which are either free or very low in cost: we even provide free uniforms!

“As our young people prove so well, Cadet membership helps build fitness, confidence and skills. The Cadets are also building achievement-packed CVs which will help them when they are ready to apply for university or college or take the first steps into the world of work.”

Cadet Detachments across County Down are currently gearing up for their annual two week Summer Camp which will be held at Folkestone in England. On their return they will all be launching into a new recruiting campaign, seeking new recruits for school and open detachments across the County.

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

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DOUBLE VISION In the nine years since Vision Property opened on Grand Parade in East Belfast the family run estate agency has prided itself on offering a fixed fee approach to selling and renting, while offering a personal and complete service to thousands of customers.

With a competitive fee, nothing to pay upfront and a free Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), combined with a decade of experience, it is no surprise that we are regularly sought after in the greater Belfast area and beyond. To allow us to accommodate this demand and to share our expertise with even more discerning clients, who believe that good service doesn’t have to be sacrificed for good value, we have expanded to become a multi branch agency with a brand new office in Dundonald.

You can now visit us on both Grand Parade and the Upper Newtownards Road to see how we can help you with your sales or rental needs. Of course, you can still reach us on the phone, by email, via our website and on social media.

With our expansion we are committed to continuing the personal service and dedication that can only come from a family run business. We will keep our unique fixed fee, provide a free EPC at the start of the process and offer business on a no sale - no fee and no let - no fee basis.

It’s never been easier to put your property on the market with us, especially now that you have double Vision!

TOP OF THE CLASS - D. CRAWFORD D. Crawford has been in the school uniform business for over 30 years now, (established in 1980). David Crawford says, “I simply believe that we are the best in the business. We now supply over 90 playgroups, primary, secondary and grammar schools. Our Newtownards shop opens June. 13 High Street, BT23 4XS. Beside Santander Bank, opposite Town Hall. Opening hours 9-5pm Monday-Saturday. For directions or further info call David 07801 343 505.”

Stocks the following schools: Model, Londonderry Primary, Victoria Primary, Castle Gardens, Kirkistown Primary, Carrowdore, Ballywalter Primary, Portavogie Primary, St. Finian’s, Abbey Primary & Nursery, Andrews Memorial, Killard House, West Winds P.S. Bangor Academy, Glastry College, Movilla, Nendrum College,Regent House Boys & Girls, Saintfield, St. Columbanus & Strangford College.

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

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LOCAL GIRL LUCY GETS SILVER IN KARATE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Northern Ireland Karate Association (NIKA) recently returned from the "World Championships", in Latvia.

The Northern Ireland Karate Team, return form Riga after an outstanding performance at the World Karate Championships.

The team came home with a Gold, two Silver and three bronze medals.

Northern Ireland Coach and president of NIKA, Cathy Mc Aleer was over the moon by the results and success of the team. Cathy said "The world championships was held in Latvia and was a very high standard with many countries from all over the world. The atmosphere was tremendous and we where well looked after the whole trip. I took a young team away of six and they trained hard. The preparation was non stop for four month's running up to the event and they were all in great shape and fitness.

Sol Boyles, from East Belfast defended his world title and remained current "World Champion". Sol, won Gold in the under 16 year boys category. Sol, showed great determination and skill winning the final bout 6-1. Sol is a superb athlete and put his heart and sol into the training and both his fitness and speed had increased massively and it showed on the mat, when competitors could not keep up with him. Sol, also went on to win a sliver medal in Kata and really wanted a double gold, but wasn't far off at all, coming home with a gold and silver.

Sol's younger brother also competed in his first World Karate Championship's and is following in his big brothers foot steps. Christian Boyles achieved a bronze in the under 13year old boys category. Christian did not let the arena and crowd put him off he remained so focused and determined to win and was greatly supported by his team mates Sol and Fergus. Fergus McMullan was ranked 4th in the worlds and was very unlucky not to be placed in the medal position. Fergus was 4-3 up and winning, with only 4 seconds on the clock and referee called a decision, which many disputed wasn't a score. Unfortunately, the referee went with decision giving the Italian the final result. Fergus showed true form, fitness, skill and deserved to get through to semi finals. However, Fergus took it on the chin and is more determined than ever now. Fergus is competing in NIFMA on Sunday 7th June and is currently in training for this with coach Cathy McAleer.

The Northern Ireland girls, also put up a tremendous performance. Lucy Ouldfield was narrowly put out in the final's against Russian opponent by one point. Lucy took some big knocks and it didn't stop her form fighting her way through to the final and lifting a World Silver Medal. Team mate Effie Ellis O'Neil, only 15 years of age achieved bronze in Kata and bronze in kumite. The bout went to extra time and first to score.

Effie was unlucky with Italian just nipping in front to take the final score. Effie was really pleased with her performance and results.

This is a trip we will never forget and could not have done without our sponsors. Thank you to our sponsors American Sports World and DB MCLarnon Fire protection agency.

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Find us on

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ROYAL VISIT MARKS REOPENING OF MOUNT STEWART Their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited one of Northern Ireland’s most famous houses and gardens as they marked the official reopening of Mount Stewart, following an £8m restoration project by the National Trust.

The Royal couple were met on arrival by Lady Rose Lauritzen and Mr Peter Lauritzen. Lady Rose’s family has lived at Mount Stewart since the 18th century.

The welcome party also included Heather Thompson, Northern Ireland Director, National Trust and Jon Kerr, National Trust General Manager.

TRHs were invited to tour the reinvigorated house and see previously unopened rooms. They also enjoyed some of the many new items that are on display including no fewer than 11 family portraits by Sir Thomas Lawrence, PRA (1769-1830), perhaps the greatest British portrait painter of the early 19th century.

Amongst the more striking items now on display is the Congress of Vienna Desk which belonged to Viscount Castlereagh when he was British Foreign Secretary at the close of the Napoleonic Wars and is said to have been used at the signing of the Treaties of Paris and Vienna in 1814 and 1815.

TRHs took the opportunity to meet with a number of National Trust staff and volunteers who played a pivotal role in the three year restoration project.

Speaking about the historic visit, Jon Kerr, manager at Mount Stewart said: “It has been a huge privilege to welcome the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall to Mount Stewart today and the perfect way to mark the reopening of this famous house which has been restored to its former glory.

“It has taken a team of hundreds of people to bring our vision for this grand house to life including builders, joinery apprentices and expert conservators and curators. So today was a real opportunity to celebrate with some of the team.

“We also couldn’t have done it without our 200 volunteers who have helped with every aspect of the project including the restoration of fabrics and furniture. They will also play a huge role in welcoming many more visitors over the coming months and years. ” Before departure, the Royal Couple received a gift of plants connected to the world famous gardens at Mount Stewart.

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THROW A

blooming great Get together with friends and family between 20 and 29 June and have a blooming great time raising money for a blooming great cause.

For your free fundraising pack visit mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty or call 0845 052 4184

Charity reg no. 207994 (England & Wales), SC038731 (Scotland) A211

TEA PARTY!

What a find!

What a fabulous collection of New unique and creative businesses we discovered in Newtownards this week. Just 50 yards from the Square in Newtownards is The Precinct a New retail development consisting of 12 retail units and an ofďŹ ce complex with free customer parking.

With such a diverse collection of what we would call Specialists!

From Trackman an indoor golf studio, which can be booked for parties or for coaching to Munchkins an adorable baby boutique which has a range of new born and toddlers clothing and accessories. Surely theses are a first for not only Newtownards but for North Down.

Rugs & More must have the largest collection of rugs to suit any home with any budget. You can even design your own rug to your specific colours, amazing!

Exqusite Nails is a long established Nail Studio with three busy Nail technicians Julie, Narelle and Rebecca. New to the salon this month is a luxurious Aqua spa pedicures for your feet, manicures also available for Natural nails. Pure Bliss ! This is an extremely busy business which has an extensive client base that is normally booked weeks in advance. This business is well worth a visit !

Munchkins is an adorable baby boutique owned and run by Kelly. You will be amazed at the extensive range of baby and infant clothing. We didn't leave empty handed and neither will you.

Street Life is a Mens clothing store offering the latest Mens branded clothing and footwear .

I know where I will be bringing my man to update his Summer wardrobe.

Golf Equip is a well stocked golf retail outlet selling all the top branded golf clothing and equipment. Above the shop they have Trackman an indoor golf studio which is designed to help from the beginner to the professional. Andrew tells us that Trackman is used and endorsed by many of the professionals on the European tour. When we where here there was a group of guys had booked the studio for a game perfect for our Northern Ireland climate. Bookings available from 8am - 11pm , 7 days a week Lux-Oria is a fabulous interior design store offering a one stop solution for either a room or complete house makeover. Also an extensive range of gifts and homewares worthy of any home.

Don't miss the great deals in the Lux-Oria Sale, with many half price offers.

Dapper Dawgs is where to bring your pooches for that much needed pampering ready for our Summer. Megan is offering our readers a special introductory 20% discount this month. Just quote "bloom" to enjoy your discount.

Hair & Co is another long established business, Lynsey, Aaron and team of Stylists are busy in their Salon which itself has just had a makeover. On speaking to Bloom Lynsey says " we are very fortunate to have a loyal client base, during the last 12 months we have recruited new stylists and created a new beauty bar.

There is a Artisan Food & Craft Fayre held monthly as well as some Family Fun days are planned throughout the summer. If you are a member of a group or charity looking for somewhere to hold an event this might be the place.

THE PROPERTY BLOOM JOHN HUSTON Property Manager

LANYON EYE ON PROPERTY Properties prices are increasing!

With demand for homes continuing to grow, there has never been a better time to consider selling or renting your property. At Lanyon Property the demand for homes, both for sale and rental is far outstripping the supply. This is because we value property realistically and in turn sell or rent quickly.

What makes us different from other agents? Why use us?

• • • • • •

We are the only local estate agent to provide 360° photography and interactive floor plans as part of our agency package at no extra cost!

We list local amenities close to the property and enable the buyer to calculate commute times to e.g. places of work, leisure facilities or shopping areas.

All this additional information is added to your individual property’s listing on Property Pal, Property News and lanyonproperty.com, making your property stand out against others in your area.

We are available outside of normal working hours for valuations, viewings or any questions you may have.

We have a team of wealth managers and whole of market mortgage advisors to answer your financial questions and bring you bespoke solutions.

Do you need to sell quickly? We can buy your house*.

(*Terms and conditions apply)

Our Referral Programme

Do you know someone that is thinking of selling their property or do you come in to regular contact with property sellers? If so, our referral programme is for you! We will pay you £40 for every successful instruction that we receive.

‘Foundations for the Future’ School, Group and Clubs Initiative

Are you part of a school, group or club community looking to raise funds for equipment, outings or uniforms? Refer a property to us and we will donate £40 directly to your organisation.

We pride ourselves in exacting attention to detail. Our customer service and experience will guide you through the maze of property legislation and we will be with you every step of the way.

Call us today on 028 9182 2933 or email hello@lanyonproperty.com

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HELLO! WE ARE LANYON PROPERTY

6a North Street Newtownards lanyonproperty.com Tel: (028) 9182 2933 Email: hello@lanyonproperty.com

• SALES • RENTALS • MORTGAGES INCLUDED IN OUR PACKAGE:

• • • • •

360° photography Interactive floor plans Property checklist pack PropertyPal ‘featured’ listing for 1 month Online and printed property brochure

CALL US TODAY TO ARRANGE YOUR FREE VALUATION!

LOCAL

EXPERT

ROAMER HOLISTIC HEALTH & BEAUTY

SUMMER READY SKIN You may be cleansing, moisturising and getting ready to slather on the sunscreen—but if you’re not exfoliating, your skin isn’t as healthy as it could be.

What is Exfoliation?

Why is Exfoliation Important?

Exfoliation is the removal of the dead skin cells on the skin’s

As we age, the process of cell regeneration slows down meaning

surface. We suggest exfoliating as part of a good home care

that the body is slower to shed skin cells and generate new ones.

regime – both the face and body. Limit your exfoliation

Proper exfoliation removes the barrier of dead skin cells clogging

routine to once a week—over-exfoliating can leave your skin

the skin and uncovers fresh new cells below. This opens the way

dry, irritated, and damaged. While it’s important to remove

for moisturising products to penetrate more deeply into the skin.

dead skin it’s also important not to strip away too many of

In short, a regular exfoliating routine will leave your skin looking

your natural oils, so a good balance is essential.

fresh and healthy.

What is the Best Way to Exfoliate?

Healthy, Shining Skin

The best type of exfoliation depends on your complexion

If you want healthy, glowing skin, regular exfoliation is a must.

and the health and sensitivity of your skin. If you use an

When you exfoliate the body you are increasing the blood

exfoliating scrub choose one with smooth, round granules.

circulation and lymphatic system which is very beneficial as it

Be gentle with the scrub—a light touch is all you need to

helps encourage new skin cells, breaks down fatty tissues, and

slough off the dead skin cells. Any more than that and

breaks down and drains toxins from the skin. After exfoliating

you’re likely to irritate your skin.

the skin is left beautifully soft ready to absorb a good moisturiser.

Take good care of your skin and put your best face forward.

READER OFFERS:

Dermalogica Body Polish - ONLY £29

17 Frances Street, Newtownards, Down, BT23 7DW

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Dermalogica Body Therapy Favourites Kit - ONLY £11

Tel: 028 9181 5777 Email: info@roamerholistic.co.uk Web: www.roamerholistic.co.uk

Sugar Cube bringing you a fresh fun twist on the coffee shop scene.

Serving fresh made sandwiches, subs, paninis, bubble tea and Mullins ice cream

2 Conway Square, Newtownards

Telephone: 028 9182 2334

cookbook ABOUT JANE Award winning Jane McClenaghan, author of the Vital Nutrition Cookbook and a leading nutritionist in Northern Ireland, shares some delicious healthy recipes with us to continue our healthy eating habits for 2015.

Thai Fishcakes Ingredients (Serves 2)

Method

150-200g white fish (choose sustainable fish like coley or pollock)

Finely chop the fish and place in a large bowl with the spring onions, ginger, curry paste, fish sauce, egg and coriander. Mix well and then stir in the flour, lime juice and zest and season with black pepper.

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4 spring onions, chopped 1 inch fresh root ginger, grated 1 tsp Thai green curry paste 2 tsp nam pla (fish sauce) 1 egg, beaten 2 tblsp chopped coriander 1 tblsp flour (I use buckwheat flour, but whatever you have in the cupboard) Juice and zest of a lime Black pepper 1 tsp coconut oil

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The mixture may be a bit wet at this stage. You can add a bit more flour if you like.

Divide into 4 generous portions. Put a little flour on your hands and form each portion into a ball.

Flatten slightly and fry in the coconut oil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Asian Beef Salad

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Method

150-200g white fish (choose sustainable fish like coley or pollock)

Mix the oyster sauce, garlic and chilli together in a bowl and add the sliced steak. Allow to marinate while you make the salad.

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1-2 tblsp oyster sauce 1 clove garlic, chopped ½ to 1 chilli (depending on how hot you like it), chopped 200g fillet steak, thinly sliced 1 tsp coconut oil For the salad: 3 or 4 spring onions, chopped 100g beansprouts 1 red pepper, sliced Ÿ cucumber Bunch of coriander, chopped A few strips of preserved ginger 2 tblsp sesame seeds

In a salad bowl, combine the spring onions, beansprouts and red pepper. Use a vegetable peeler to finely slice the cucumber into strips.

Add to the other salad ingredients. Add the chopped coriander and preserved ginger.

Put the sesame seeds into a heavy based pan and heat gently until lightly toasted. Add to the salad.

Heat the coconut oil in a wok, then add the marinated beef and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until cooked.

Serve the beef along with the salad and add dressing to taste.

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THE GOOD LIFE SECOND OF A FOUR PART SERIES ON HOME PRODUCE BROUGHT TO YOU BY LOCAL BOY STEPHEN MOORE

PART 2:

BEE KEEPING For the suburban homesteader space is a very valuable commodity, and yet every farm needs livestock! This is where the noble honey bee comes in. You might not own 8000+ acres but if you place a hive, which can be kept on a few square feet, in your garden the bees will feed themselves on the flowers and trees for miles around!

The joy of bee keeping might seem to most the deliciously sweet liquid gold that the bees work so hard to make from all their foraging trips, and it is true that no better produce can you get from your garden than honey. However, the bees themselves captivate and enchant with their strange ways that keeping bees quickly becomes more than just honey. Did you know that all the honeybees that leave the hive to collect nectar from flowers are female? Yes the workers are the ladies and all that the male bees (aka drones) do all day is eat and hang around in the wing waiting for a queen to mate with, which when it happens he promptly dies. (All the women have just cheered inside at the doom of the lazy male!) And then we have the queen, who can lay 2000 eggs a day, prancing about inside the hive never leaving unless to mate in the first weeks of her life or in later years to swarm.

A swarm may seem like a scary thing, but contrary to popular belief this is actually a time when the bees are least likely to attack. It is how they multiply, the queen leaves the hive with half of the bees to find a new home, leaving the old portion in the charge of her soon-to-hatch daughter. Someone might see a swarm on a branch of a tree, a mass of bees around the size and shape of a rugby ball, this is them in waiting while a small number of them scout out a suitable new nesting site. If you see a swarm then please get in touch with a local beekeeper via the website below.

Not everyone is cut out for bee keeping, and yet you can help bees out by planting nectar and pollen sources in your garden. Check out Belfast City Bee on Facebook for more information on what species are good for bees. If you do wish to learn more about beekeeping then connect with the Belfast & District Beekeepers' Association at www.belfastbees.org.uk.

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

LOCAL

Bloom Magazine Belfast

VOL NTEER - ALL THAT’S MISSING IS ‘U’!

Home-Start (which has been operating for 42 years) is a voluntary organisation supporting families with young children for various reasons, across the U.K. and in several other Countries across the world.

Reasons for support include: Isolation, Parent’s/Child’s Mental or Physical Health, Multiple Births, First Time/Lone parents, parents experiencing difficulties for any other reason.

Home-Start Ards Comber & Peninsula Area is one of many Schemes across the U.K. This Scheme supports families through Friendship, Emotional & Practical ways and is offered free. It operates across the areas mentioned in the title and support for families includes: •

Home-Visiting (Core Support) through trained & vetted Volunteers

•

Family Groups (Opportunity for parents & children to meet, mix and build on parenting knowledge or skills)

•

Respite Play Group (Giving parents a break & an opportunity for children to develop through play)

•

Childrens Charity Shop (Based at 2 Ann Street, Newtownards)originally set up in 2006 in Newtownards

The Childrens Charity Shop has been a big success for local families & the general public. It is also the Schemes main fund-raiser, raising funds for additional & gap funding needs.

Good quality Clothes , Toys & Nursery Items can be purchased at a low & affordable price.

The shop is managed by a shop manageress – Anne-Marie and run by Volunteers on a daily basis – opening times Mon-Sat 10.00am – 2pm & also open some days up to 4pm when Volunteers are available. (Donations for the shop are always welcome).

The Scheme would be interested to hear from anyone who is interested in Volunteering. This could be for Family Support, as a Trustee within the Committee and/or the Charity Shop.

Our contact details are: Main Office (based in Greyabbey) 028 4278 8369 / e-mail homestartards@btconnect.com Enquiries to the shop: 028 9181 8365 or a message can be left at our main Office 028 4278 8369 or at Newtownards 028 9182 8468

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COMBER GARDEN OPENS FOR ULSTER GARDENS SCHEME Every plant in the garden is gearing up to make the most of the summer sunshine and there is no better way to appreciate the colourful blooms and luscious green foliage than to visit the Ulster Gardens Scheme’s fabulous array of open gardens.

On Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June, Mr David Mrs Gillian McMurran, 11 Longlands Road, Island Hill, Comber, BT23 5JS are opening their garden from 2pm to 5pm, on behalf of the National Trust, Northern Ireland’s largest conservation charity.

This very attractive cottage style garden is positioned close to Strangford Lough below Scrabo Tower. It has been designed to create all year round interest with a diverse selection of trees, shrubs and perennials. The perennials have been carefully selected to provide a stunning display during the summer months. Features in the garden include different garden rooms, long gravel paths edged with herbaceous planting and a fish pond. The garden is partially suitable for wheelchairs.

Location: Longlands Road is situated on the A21 half way between Comber and Newtownards, opposite the turning for Scrabo Country Park.

Enjoy a summer’s day wandering around other people’s secret paradises and pick up a few tips for your own garden. While you are there buy some plants and relax with a refreshing cup of tea (teas in aid of Marie Curie).

The organising committee is grateful to all the garden owners and very much appreciates all the hard work that goes into preparing the gardens. All funds raised by the Ulster Gardens Scheme are used for work in National Trust gardens in Northern Ireland.

Full details of open gardens are in the Ulster Gardens Scheme leaflet available from Regional Office, contact 028 9751 0721 or visit www.ulstergardensscheme.org.uk Admission £3

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Comber Potato Festival 2nd - 5th July

MAYOR GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, recently returned to his roots; meeting farmer Ivan McKee to discuss the preparations for the upcoming Comber Potato Festival. Running from the 2nd to the 5th July, the event organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council in partnership with Food NI and the Comber Earlies Co-operative, is now in its third year and is becoming into one of Northern Ireland’s top food tourism events.

The harvest of the Comber Earlies is a significant time in the Northern Ireland food calendar. The famous potatoes which have been granted EU ‘Protected Geographical Indication’ are special both because of the unique climate and geographic position of Comber which produces the distinctive earthy, sweet and nutty flavour, and thanks to the expertise and dedication of the farmers who grow them.

The Mayor understands more than most the hard work involved in farming.

He said: “I have farmed all my life, in fact my father and I used to grow British Queens on our farm. Farmers work morning, noon and night in sometimes difficult conditions but this toil is worthwhile when we see the benefits of early yields from local fields. The Comber spud has always been known province-wide and thanks to the dedication of the Comber Earlies Co-operative in achieving EU PGI status they are now recognised worldwide.”

Comber Early grower, Ivan McKee, welcomed the Mayor to his farm to see the beginnings of a Comber Earlies crop.

He said: “This is a busy time of year as we look forward to launching and celebrating the Comber Earlies at the Comber Potato Festival. We have experienced some problems this year when a late frost hit during a low tide and this has slowed down the crop somewhat, causing a slight delay. However we are confident we will have the very finest local produce out for the Festival and look forward to visitors coming along to taste our humble spud.”

The Family Festival day on Saturday 4th July provides the perfect opportunity to sample the Comber Earlies at their very best and will also feature a host of other culinary delights from local artisan food producers including chutneys, cheese, speciality breads, sweet treats and much more. There will also be children’s entertainment and a parade, workshops, petting farms and arts & crafts. Other entertainment during the five day festival includes a town Tractor Run and BBQ and a Sunday Thanksgiving Service.

For further information visit www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/potatofestival or call Ards Visitor Information Centre on 028 9182 6846.

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Call Ruth today: 028 9079 0459 or 07503 178082. www.dialagogwash.com

Yo GU gr ur AR ea d A t o og NT r i sm EE ts e D FR llin EE g !

Our Promise: We promise to take care of your pet whilst it is in our care and kindness will always be shown towards your dog!

CALL US ON: 028 9181 4711 96-98 Frances Street, Newtownards BT23 7DY

NOT AVAILABLE ON BANK HOLIDAYS OR SPECIAL OCCASIONS. MANAGEMENTRESERVE THE RIGHT TO WITHDRAW OFFERS AT ANYTIME

Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport

June Events Free Weekend Entertainment 2pm – 4pm Cottages Open: 11am-5pm Weekends only, April - May Daily, 1 June - 6 September

All events subject to change.

Event photography will take place during events.

Sat 6 Sun 7

Glitter Tattoos, Casey’s Creatures Aldo’s Magic Show

Sat 13 Jumping Clay, Face Painting Sun 14 Party Animals NI Sat 20 Science Show: ‘Cool Vibrations’ Sun 21 Plant & Play Garden Workshop & Crafts Sat 27 Archery, Face Painting Sun 28 Glitter Tattoos, Children’s Crafts

Ards & North Down Borough Council

028 9127 0069

visitardsandnorthdown.com

BELFAST

GR

AN D

PA RA DE

UPPER NEWTOWNARDS ROAD

We’re proud to announce the opening of our second branch and the expansion of our service to Dundonald. Call in to either of our offices to see our wide range of properties and how we can help you take that next big step.

T: 028 9070 2999 E: info@visionpropertyagents.co.uk @vpahomes

BELFAST 8 Grand Parade Belfast BT5 5HH

DUNDONALD 977 Upper Newtownards Road, Dundonald BT16 1RL

www.visionpropertyagents.co.uk

DUNDONALD