Mid & East Antrim | Chatterbox | May 2016

mid & east antrim EDITION TEL: 028 9024 7455

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belfast high school teams up with the dobbins inn!

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Belfast High School is always looking for ways in which it can forge useful links with the local community and the French Department came up with a way to help promote one of our oldest local businesses and show our pupils the importance of language learning. It started with Year 10 pupils ‘role-playing’ a receptionist in a French hotel and producing a podcast in French. The response from the pupils was so positive that the school decided to find a way in which they could relate this more effectively to the actual business world.

The school has piloted a project called ‘Languages in the Business World’ and asked for help from a local hotel. The management of Dobbins Inn in

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may 2016

Carrickfergus was delighted to collaborate and agreed to host 5 Year 10 classes over the next few months. The Inn has recently had a booking from 12 French people from Rennes and they have no materials in French to welcome their guests or to promote the business. Our Year 10 pupils work in teams and, after their fact-finding mission to the hotel, have to produce a product in French which will publicise the Inn or make their guests feel at home. Our pupils are very motivated and excited to discover which of their products will actually be used in the Inn. The decision will be made by a panel chaired by the manager of Dobbins Inn at the end of May.

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Contents

Meet the Team

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Local News

SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

NOEL@CHATTERBOXNI.CO.UK

MARK BEELEY

ADVERTISING MANAGER

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WILLIAM LOGAN WILLIAM@CHATTERBOXNI.CO.UK

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Local News Local photos

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

health & lifestyle Page

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woman’s world eur0 2016 food mind matters

JOE KENNOWAY

local history and interest 36 - 39

old carrick postcards ballymena show days on your doorstep

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GRAPHIC DESIGN | EDITORIAL

DANIELLE GAULT

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faith focus

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Gareth buchanan

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TRAINEE: GRAPHIC DESIGNER

LEE CONLANE

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Business adviser

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ucb local church

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page 4

may 2016

Crowds flock to Carrickfergus as Borough joins national celebrations for Queen’s 90th birthday

PAINS FIREWORKS CONAL NEILL LEFT, ASSISTS AS PARTY SET OFF THE BEACON FOR THE CELEBRATIONS

The culmination of a series of events was held last night by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to celebrate a very special royal event – Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday.

Councillor Billy Ashe, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, pictured, was joined by the Vice Lord Lieutenant for Country Antrim, Richard Reade DL and Pam Reade to light a celebratory beacon at Fisherman’s Quay, Carrickfergus as a link in a nationwide chain of beacons led by Her Majesty lighting the first one that same evening.

“An estimated 2,000 people enjoyed this family-themed

event on the evening of Her Majesty’s birthday,” said Cllr Ashe as the evening concluded with an impressive fireworks display.

“This celebratory beacon underlined the very strong links that exist across the whole Borough and the historic town of Carrickfergus in particular with Her Majesty and the other members of the Royal Family.”

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Carrick Celebrates Queens 90th

SNAPPING AN AERIAL SELFIE

FISHY CHARACTERS AT THE EVENT MAYOR AND FAMILY MEMBERS

DEPUTY LORD LIEUTENANT FOR COUNTY ANTRIM RICHARD READE AND MRS READE WITH MAYOR BILLY ASHE AT THE BEACON LIGHTING

FIREWORKS FROM THE PIER, CELEBRATING THE QUEENS SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WITH THE COMMUNITY THUMBS UP FOR FROM OUR STILT WALKER

JOINING TOGETHER WITH THE BEACONS LIT ALL OVER THE UNITED KINGDOM FOR THE QUEENS 90TH BIRTHDAY

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studio 86 is the first dance studio to be open in carrickfergus!

MONDAY

STUDIO 86 CLASSES

9.30am - Ballet - Tiny Tutus UK 18 Months - 3 Yrs Old* 3.00pm - Ballet - Tiny Tutus UK 2 - 4 Yrs Old* 4.00pm - Ballet - Tiny Tutus UK 4 - 5 Yrs Old* 5.00pm - Ballet - Tiny Tutus UK 5 - 8 Yrs Old* 6.15pm - Meet Me at Barre 7.00pm - Zumba - Adult Only 8.15pm - Clubbercise Starting 6th June! Adult only

Providing classes in various genres of dance including Ballet, hip hop, Jazz, Street jazz, Cheerleading, Lyrical/contemporary, Salsa, Zumba, Zumba kids and Clubbercise. More styles being added including Irish, belly dancing, musical theatre, commercial and many more.

Family friendly fitness class, Fit Families.

The perfect class to get fit and no need to Family friendly fitness class, Fit Families.

The perfect class to get fit and no need to worry about baby sitters, as children are welcome to come along take part or play in the studio.

Wiggle and giggle a unique class for parent/ guardian and toddler, 30minutes dance, 30 minutes free play and 30 minute story time/ music time.

Samantha the owner has trained as a dancer & coach for several years,

TUESDAY 10.00am - Wiggle & Giggle 1 - 4 Yrs Old 4.00pm - Ajendance 5-8 Yrs Old - Starting 17th May* 5.00pm - Ajendance 9-16 Yrs Old - Starting 17th May* 6.00pm - Street Jazz 5-8 Yrs Old - Starting 17th May* 7.00pm - Street Jazz 9+ Yrs Old - Starting 17th May*

WEDNESDAY 10.00am - Baby & Me Ballet - Tiny Tutus UK* 2.00pm - Baby Hip Hop - 2 - 4 Yrs Old* 3.00pm - Cheerleading Minis - 3 - 5 Yrs Old - Starting June* 4.00pm - Cheerleading Juniors - 9 - 16 Yrs Old - Starting June* 6.30pm - Lyrical & Contermporary - 5+ Yrs Old*

THURSDAY 10.00am - Wiggle & Giggle - 1 - 4 Yrs Old 7.00pm - Salsa - Adults Only

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including achieving her degree in dance as well as gaining several other coaching qualifications which include cheerleading, Zumba, tumbling and lyrical.

As well as Samantha coaching she has also bought in several other teachers to coach including Annika Graham (Ajendance Hip hop teacher), Caroline ( clubbericse/ Zumba kids), Marisoal (salsa) and Michelle ( Zumba).

Dance studio is available for private bookings.

STUDIO 86 ethos Samantha’s goal is to inspire, enrich and provide new opportunities to all ages, through dance and dance fitness, in a happy, safe and secure environment.

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may 2016

Actor Stephen Hagan hopes to bring some ‘luck’ to MS Society’s Cake Break

Greenisland born actor Stephen Hagan is encouraging people to raise ‘lots of dough’ for the MS Society by getting involved in Cake Break on 20 May, a mouth-watering event aiming to raise over £250,000 to support people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the UK

Stephen, who has recently been on our screens in Sky 1’s Lucky Man and will start filming for series 2 in the next few months, is launching Cake Break in Northern Ireland today with local fundraisers the McReavie family from Carrickfergus.

Speaking about his support

with MS affect our family life, we just carry on as normal and try to do our bit. My husband has used some of the therapies offered by the MS Society in their Resource Centre, which has been a great help. It doesn’t matter how much you raise through Cake Break, get involved and enjoy some sweet “All the money treats with family and friends.’

for Cake Break, Stephen says, raised will The MS Society is the leading ‘I have a couple of close family national charity for people with friends with MS, so I am aware go towards MS. More than 100,000 people of the impact that it can have on funding life- are living with the condition in someone’s life. I have learnt so changing MS the UK. MS is unpredictable much more about MS by being – one day you can be fine, the involved in Cake Break and I research” next you might lose your sight was surprised to find out that or be unable to move. People typically Northern Ireland has the 2nd highest start having symptoms in their 20s prevalence of MS in the world. I would and 30s and include sight loss, pain, encourage everyone to get baking fatigue, incontinence and disability. and hold a Cake Break to raise vital funds to support people with MS here.’

Adele McReavie, who’s husband Alan was diagnosed with MS in in July 2014, says ‘We don’t let Alan being diagnosed

Alice McReavie, Alan’s mum, volunteers with the fundraising team at the MS Society says, ‘I take part in collections for the MS Society and

have recently organised a sponsored walk. I find it so enjoyable to fundraise for the MS Society and love the opportunity to meet other people and have fun. It is so important to raise money so that the MS Society can continue to fund important research so that hopefully they will find a cure for MS soon.’

Tom Mallon, MS Society Northern Ireland’s Fundraising Manager said: “We’d love more people to take part in Cake Break. It’s a delicious way to fundraise for people affected by MS across Northern Ireland, and provides a great opportunity for people to get together and spend quality time with friends and family.

“All the money raised will go towards funding life-changing MS research, supporting our helpline and providing grants and short breaks for individuals and families affected by MS.”

New Poetry club in carrickfergus library

By Sheree Ramsey from Carrickfergus Poetry Club

I’m 24 and have seen many strange things before. I’ve seen life come into the world and life go just as much.

I enjoy poets from my school teaching and it would be interesting to hear of your favourite poets or poems that made you laugh, upset or captivated you in your own personal reason.

This programme is also about using your memory bad/good placed on paper to sustain your memory or get it out of your head! Poetry can be emotional and can affect everyone differently.

These are your memories so there is no right or wrong way; it is as I said completely liberating writing, no judgements will be passed.

I’ve seen beauty in every way possible from flowers to love itself as such. In contrast I’ve seen the horrors of family breakups and watched these rip lives apart due to their own sick mind.

Confidentiality This club is about your own experiences and some of which you may want to keep to yourself, however all members are welcome to share if and only you are comfortable to do so. This session is about getting to know one another and give you all a feel of what this club is all about. As I may have said before there is no right or wrong in this; it’s your own unique story to share, have a laugh, empathize and most of all open up to yourself on this journey to perhaps opening up to others.

in all of my years of writing seems first hand pretty doom and gloom but I write what I see and feel to most that might not appeal .

I would not trade my memories for anything my memories may it hurt, be painful or fun and exciting. The fact that all my memories will die as I will seems to me somewhat frightening.

Your memories, experiences can be told so join the poetry club and get to know you from young to old watch your life unfold.

Poetry Style Options To put these stories on paper and make it as fresh as it is on your head bloom i’m throwing a lot of options which are narrative as lyrical. A narrative poem tells a story, and the use of yourself to narrate both the story and characters, a narrative poem does not need to follow in rhythmic patterns. A lyrical poem is a form of poetry which expresses personal emotions or feelings, which usually would go in a rhythmic pattern.

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To sign up for a free fundraising pack or for more information about Cake Break, visit: www.cakebreak. org.uk or contact the Northern Ireland fundraising team on 028 9080 2802

WHAT I’VE SEEN

Sheree Ramsey, a local mental health campaigner, has started a new poetry club in carrickfergus which aims to help people channel negative emotions through writing about their life experiences. sheree explains how this has helped her on her own journey through life’s challenges and trials and is passionate about helping others through the same techniques. sheree elaborates: Poetry is liberating; it’s freedom to write whatever you choose. This club is not only about getting to know each other it’s also about getting to know yourself also. This club is specifically intended to lift spirits through enjoying, listening, writing and watch as every story builds a picture puzzle.

Chatterbox

Where and When?

We meet every fortnight on Friday’s starting from 6th May 2016 continuing on the 20th May at 10:30am - 12pm at Carrickfergus Library

page 8

may 2016

Running from 1pm – 4pm, it is scheduled to take place on Saturday 7 May with Mid and East Antrim Borough Mayor, Councillor Billy Ashe, commenting: “For the second consecutive year, Diamond Jubilee Wood, Whitehead will be transformed into a ‘woollen wonderland’ featuring hundreds of woodland-themed artworks made from wool, which have been created by schools, community groups, craft groups and individuals all over Northern Ireland.”

Explaining that this project is a collaboration between Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and local craft shop Lighthouse Yarns, Cllr Ashe added: “Our main aim is to combine the arts and environment, to draw new audiences to crafting and biodiversity, to enhance local culture.

The only ‘Woollen Wood’ anywhere in Northern Ireland will be unveiled soon with a grand opening marked by a free family fun day.

“The theme for this year is hedgehogs as our Woollen Woods Grand Opening falls within Hedgehog Awareness Week.

“Our hedgehogs are in decline and one of the main reasons is loss of habitat. We’d like to celebrate the fact that Diamond Jubilee Wood is a haven for hedgehogs, as well as many other birds, insects, frogs and mammals,” he said.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council wants to encourage more people to get involved in local biodiversity, in line with its Local Biodiversity Action Plan, so the aim is to do so through a range of fun and inspirational events which have biodiversity at their core.

Cllr Ashe said: “I encourage everyone to come along and see the wonderful display on Saturday 7 May and join in with some family friendly festivities

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Calls on citizens to ‘Get Greening for Health and Happiness’

including arts and crafts, storytelling, face painting, pond dipping, bug hunts, nest box building and more.”

Louise Williamson, Lighthouse Yarns, added: “We have received so many woollen donations from creative crafters across the country and I can’t wait to see them all on display.

“Thank you for all the hard work. We hope the grand opening will offer a little something for everyone – a day to keep the whole family entertained and, of course, keep the devoted crafters and budding biodiversity experts happy!”

Louise concluded: “If you go ‘down to the woods today’ you might just find a knitted robin sitting in a tree, a crocheted mushroom on the forest floor or a whole host of handmade hedgehogs”

Gardening as an opportunity for exercise that will reduce stress and lessen social isolation has this week been hailed as an excellent way of enjoying better physical and mental health.

Victoria Primary School’s Eco Club clean up Carrickfergus Mill Ponds Already, green-fingered gardeners have been out in force to celebrate National Gardening Week (11-17 April 2016) as well as a part of this year’s Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom campaign.

In Mid and East Antrim Borough volunteers have been busy carrying out essential tree maintenance in the community orchard at Diamond Jubilee Wood, Whitehead and carrying out a ‘Big Spring Clean’ at Carrickfergus Mill Ponds.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, Councillor Billy Ashe, said: “I’d like to thank the volunteers for their hard work this week.

“These events are just a few of many that will be organised across the Borough to promote Mid and East Antrim in Bloom and to underline the positive impact community gardening activities have on people’s health and wellbeing.

“We encourage everyone who lives in the Borough to think about their local environment and how flowers, plants and gardens can enhance it for people and

wildlife,” Cllr Ashe added.

By actively supporting ‘In Bloom’ activities and competitions residents will not only make their garden, school or business more attractive but also assist Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s entry to the Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition and the Britain in Bloom Competition.

Britain in Bloom is the UK’s largest community gardening campaign. The theme of this year’s Bloom campaign, Greening Grey Britain for Health and Happiness, will see community groups around the UK organising gardening activities to boost local health and wellbeing.

Andrea Van Sittart, RHS Head of Community Outreach, added: “Through our Bloom campaign we see gardening and green spaces having a positive impact on individuals and communities.

“Gardening together provides an opportunity for exercise, can help reduce stress and lessen social isolation. We hope this year’s campaign theme will get people talking about what a great healer gardening can be.”

Elections and a thought for victims

“

So nice to see `Chatterbox` fall through the letterbox.

So interesting to read of the Community groups gathered together celebrating the Queen`s 90th Birthday. There is so much news in this little paper that brings the communities together in a way that one could never believe.

One matter that catches my attention is how disabled children have been treated during the last few years.

I know of a family member who has been suffering from two forms of epilepsy and as recent as yesterday he had a convulsion and fell to the ground injuring his head. Seeing him on high doses of medication and struggling from day to day it is sad. When his Disability Allowance was stopped it was a hard blow as he was told then that he was in good health when it was a pack of lies, the frequency of the attacks is unreal, and his parents have to carry `rescue` medicine at all times. Today`s children are tomorrow`s people and I ask just what will become of them?

With so many Political Parties competing I would advise that voters should only vote for candidates who have either victims or Disabled at the top of their list. I know of other claimants who have pony riding lessons paid for along with swimming, dancing and so on..

Anonymous reader, carrickfergus

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Family fun day is ‘knit’ all it seems as Borough backs innovative ‘Woollen Wood’ project in Whitehead

Chatterbox

Have your say: editorial@chatterboxni.co.uk

Mayor welcomes Ballee Jobmatch ‘Taster Day’ The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, Councillor Billy Ashe has welcomed an innovative training and employment programme to Ballymena.

The Mayor pictured with Michelle McMullan, Helen Bradley and Karen Dougherty from Network Personnel as they explain craft working.

Speaking at Ballee Community Centre, Cllr Billy Ashe, explained: “This employability programme is very relevant in addressing work and training-related matters with today’s focus on running a ‘Taster day’ to let people know what is on offer in terms of employment and training opportunities. “It targets any adult who is unemployed and who is keen to gain relevant accredited training in seeking employment and is especially relevant as Ballee falls into one of the local Neighbourhood Renewal Areas and is therefore a primary focus,” he said Jobmatch is delivered by a local company, Network Personnel, which is part of the Workspace Group and is part funded by the European Social Fund and the Department for Employment and Learning.

It is free for anyone over 18 years-of-age and who is currently unemployed or economically inactive but keen to gain relevant accredited training and employment or who is considering self-employment.

Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus residents are among those who can apply if they meet the criteria.

Michelle McMullan, Network Personnel, added: “Jobmatch is a great initiative for our local area, especially at a time when there is an ever increasing competition for jobs.”

page 9

may 2016

Chatterbox

Mortgage Solutions welcome new team member claire hoy to ballymena branch Paul Dalzell (Managing Director) and Joe Burrell (Principal) of Mortgage Solutions 45 Mill Street would like to take this opportunity to welcome Clare Hoy to the team in Ballymena. Clare has worked in the financial service industry for the past 18 years and brings a wealth of knowledge with her in mortgage, protection and general insurance products.

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Clare Hoy – Mortgage and Protection Advisor “Having always lived in the local

area I am well known within the local community helping out with community groups and charity fundraising.

I have worked within the financial services industry for the last 18yrs with a local bank, building my knowledge and experience enabling me to offer a professional advice service for all my clients.

I pride myself on giving a personal service, getting to know what is important to you and being able to provide a solution which is tailored to your needs. I decided to join Mortgage Solutions, as I felt that I needed to be able to offer my clients a wider range of products to be able

to meet all their financial needs.

We can offer a comprehensive range of mortgages from across the market for first time buyers, re-mortgages, Buy to Let, Right to Buy, Help to buy and Home movers.

Also offering protection covering life, critical illness cover, home and contents, accident and sickness and redundancy cover, business protection and funeral cover.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all previous customers for their past business and look forward to working with them in the future.

Monday to Friday 9am–5pm, Saturday and evening appointments available on request. Home consultations are also available.

ALISTAIR SWAN, JOE BURRELL PRINCIPLE, CLARE HOY THE NEW MORTGAGE ADVISOR AT MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, MILL STREET, BALLYMENA, PAUL DALZELL ... MANAGING DIRECTOR AND LYNSEY HYNDMAN.

CLARE HOY THE NEW MORTGAGE ADVISOR AT MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, MILL STREET, BALLYMENA.

PAUL DALZELL (MANAGING DIRECTOR) AND JOE BURRELL (PRINCIPAL) WITH NEW TEAM MEMBER ‘CLAIRE HOY’

page 10

may 2016

THE BALLYMENA 2016 SHOW HORSE COMMITTEE AND SPONSORS READY FOR THE LAUNCH EVENT AT EATON PARK.

THE YOUNG FARMERS CLUB MEMBERS READY TO LAUNCH THEIR TUG-O-WAR TEAM EVENT FOR THE BALLYMENA 2016 SHOW. FLORAL ART COMMITTEE AND CLASS SPONSORS FOR THE 2016 BALLYMENA SHOW PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE LAUNCH.

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THE LADIES AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS OF THE HOME INDUSTRIES SECTION READY AT THE LAUNCH FOR THE 2016 BALLYMENA SHOW. PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE BALLYMENA SHOW LAUNCH AT EATON PARK WERE MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL YOUNG FARMERS CLUBS LISNAMURRICAN, AHOGHILL AND GLARRYFORD WHO WERE GOING TO HELP OUT.

DOG CLASS SPONSORS JULIE MARTIN AND SHANNON GORDON, BALLYMENA CREDIT UNION GIRLS WITH UNA THE COLLIE AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS READY FOR THE 2016 BALLYMENA SHOW LAUNCH.

VIP GUESTS AND MID AND EAST COUNCILORS WITH BALLYMENA SHOW 2016 COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT THE EATON PARK LAUNCH. POULTRY CLASS SPONSOR BASIL BAILIE OF THOMPSONS FEEDS PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE BALLYMENA SHOW LAUNCH WITH COMMITTEE MEMBERS BRIAN KING AND JOE ADAMS.

Ballymena Show 2016 THE FOLKS WHO ATTENDED THE 2016 BALLYMENA SHOW LAUNCH AT EATON PARK.

Www.facebook.com/DIPni Www.facebook.com/HugoMcNiece

Online

07990 527812 mcniecephotography@yahoo.co.uk

A TIGHT GAME AS BALLYMENA BOWLS KEENLY FOLLOW THEIR INCOMING BOWL AGAINST ULSTER TRANSPORT.

BALLYMENA BOWLING TEAM MEMBERS WATCH CLOSELY TO THE DELIVERY DURING THE ULSTER TRANSPORT MATCH ON SATURDAY.

BOWLS DURING THE BALLYMENA V ULSTER TRANSPORT MATCH ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON STUDY THE LAY OF THE BOWLS ROUND THE JACK.

ALEC COLEMAN BOWLS FOR BALLYMENA AGAINST ULSTER TRANSPORT ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON.

BOWLS: Ballymena VS MOSSLEY

Contact

all photography courtesy of Hugo McNiece @ D.I.P Photography

BALLYMENA 2016 SHOW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS PHOTOGRAPHED WITH BANK OF IRELAND OFFICIALS AT EATON PARK LAUNCH.

THE SCENE ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT BALLYMENA BOWLING CLUB WHERE THE HOME BOYS TOOK ON THE MIGHTY MOSSLEY.

LINING UP THE RIGHT LINE FOR THE BOWL DURING THE BALLYMENA V MOSSLEY MATCH ON SATURDAY.

BALLYMENA BOWLING CLUB PLAYERS COOL AS ANYTHING AS MOSSLEY GET DOWN TO A NAIL-BITER MATCH.

TENSE TIMES AT BALLYMENA BOWLING CLUB ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON WHERE THE HOME SIDE TOOK ON MOSSLEY.

page 11

BALLYMENA GARDEN CLUB SPRING FAIR 2016

may 2016

GEORGE WILSON, DAVID PINKERTON, JILL PINTERTON, ROBERT CURRIE AND RICHARD MCCAW ENJOY THE BALLYMENA GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL SPRING FAIR.

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ALEX THIRD PLACE AT THE BALLYMENA GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL SPRING FAIR IN BROUGHSHANE COMMUNITY CENTRE.

BOBBY AND ELIZABETH LOOK OVER THE FLORAL DISPLAY IN BROUGHSHANE COMMUNITY CENTRE ON SATURDAY AT THE BALLYMENA GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL SPRING FAIR.

ALL SMILES AT BALLYMENA RUGBY CLUB ON SATURDAY FOR THE MINI RUGBY FUN DAY.

LOOKING AT THE DAFFODILS WERE GEORGE AND ADELE BLOOMER OF WILLIE MCCULLOUGH MOTOR HOME CLUB.

SLOANE AGED 4 ENJOYS THE FACE PAINTING AT EATON PARK ON SATURDAY.

BALLYMENA RFC P3'S MEDAL WINNERS WITH BALLYMENA MAYOR BILLY ASHE AND DEREK MONTGOMERY, CHAIRMAN BALLYMENA RFC.

SAM TRIES TO CLIMB THE BOUNCY CASTLE AT THE MINI RUGBY FUN DAY.

THE SEVEN TOWERS KARATE CLUB MEMBERS PHOTOGRAPHED IN THE LEISURE CENTRE LAST WEEK WHO ARE CELEBRATING THEIR 35TH ANNIVERSARY THIS MONTH.

BUICK MEMORIAL PS CHOIR ON STAGE ON FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE ANNUAL PTA SPRING CONCERT WHO SANG TO A PACKED ASSEMBLY HALL OF PARENTS AND FRIENDS.

BALLYMENA MAYOR BILLY ASHE WITH BALLYMENA RFC MINI RUGBY LADS WHO WON MEDALS.

Ballymena mini rugby club fun day & seven towers Karate Club photos

page 12

From Guesswork to guidance

may 2016 focusing on things of a heavenly nature

Chatterbox

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Church buys pub and has big plans for it’s conversion!

A snapshot of the Rose and Crown and Carrickfergus Congregational Church Premises

carrick congregational church buys pub

Under normal circumstances the headline would be “Pub buys Church and turns it into a nightclub.” Here in Carrickfergus we have broken the mould.

Carrickfergus Congregational Church has just recently purchased the old derelict pub the “Rose & Crown” which is situated on the corner of the Albert Road and Queen St. It has been the Church’s ambition to buy this for a good while now as it sits directly between the main Church building and the Church hall.

The name is not lost on us as our Lord Jesus Christ was called the “Rose of Sharon,” Song of Solomon 2:1 and He was “Crowned with Glory and Honour.” Hebrews 2:9.

Because of the interior and the state of disrepair it has been allowed to fall into over the years it has been unoccupied, the whole building needs a lot of

work done to it. Members of the Congregation have been coming up with ideas on how to raise a few pound to help. The latest was one member who grows his beard long over the winter decided instead of just trimming it for the start of the Spring, he would have it all removed and shaved including his moustache and hair. All round the Church people sponsored him, to see him without his beard.

weather turned cold again and no one knew who he was until he spoke.

The Congregational Church here in Carrickfergus have not finally decided what to use it for, but one suggestion is for our very healthy “Youth Club” to meet in, but that is in the future.

before

after!

The the promised date Tuesday the 12 April finally arrived and “Mr Beard” we will call him, found himself in his favourite hairdressers (who also sponsored him) as had previously been arranged for the great removal. The deed was done, his problem was now the

“Mr Beard” found himself in his favourite hairdressers (who also sponsored him) who thoroughly enjoyed the big shave

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page 14

may 2016

Chatterbox

a of ngs i h e t on tur ing y na s u l foc aven he

Covenant Protestant Reformed Church Covenant Protestant Reformed Church, aKA the CPRC or simply Covenant, is a church in Ballymena that especially focuses on Bible teaching. If you want to learn the life transforming truth of God’s Word, come along to our various meetings!

Meetings Our Tuesday morning class (11am) is currently studying the fascinating laws of Moses in Exodus to Deuteronomy and showing how they are fulfilled in the Lord Jesus. These meetings run through the year, and include questions from the floor and enjoyable discussions. Tea and coffee are provided. The time of this class especially suits retired saints and mothers.

Why not join us?

Our Wednesday evening doctrine class (7:45pm) recently concluded for the season, so that the elders can engage in family visitation throughout the congregation (Acts 20:20). The class resumes in September to study the scriptural truth of the glory of Christ’s church, as summarized in the Belgic Confession (1561),

Why not join us?

a Reformation creed, written by a man martyred for his faith.

Something to bear in mind for Wednesday nights in the future!

The Monday night catechism classes will also start again in September. Through a wellstructured programme including work books, the children of the church are taught Old Testament History, New Testament History, the Heidelberg Catechism and the Essentials of Reformed Doctrine.

As well as the above meetings, which are led by our pastor, Rev. Angus Stewart, Covenant also holds fortnightly Ladies’ (Fridays 10:30am) and Men’s (Saturdays 8pm) Bible studies.

Rich Bible exposition and reverent worship characterize our two CPRC Lord’s Day services (11am & 6pm).

Our church building in Ballymena is at at 83 Clarence Street, off the

Cullybackey Road. You and your family are very welcome. Both Sunday services are also broadcast live on video on-line (www.cprf. co.uk/live.html).

Websites The CPRC is very active on-line.

Our main website is packed with written teaching materials (www. cprc.co.uk), plus over 1,300 free MP3 audios of lectures, sermons, doctrine classes and radio interviews. It contains over 2,200 translations in some 126 languages (especially Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, German, Hungarian, Afrikaans, Indonesian and Burmese), as well as information on our special lectures, our Sunday

radio programme, our full-time missionary in Limerick, our speeches in Wales, etc.

Over 1,800 videos of sermons, speeches and author interviews can be watched free on-line, plus debates on Calvinism, Charismaticism and Psalm singing (www.youtube.com/user/CPRCNI).

You may also “like” our busy Facebook page (www.facebook. com/CovenantPRC).

attractive CD and DVD box sets of sermon series and conference addresses, and free pamphlets.

The full range consisting of hundreds of materials are in a special room in the CPRC manse.

Browse our complete stock on our main website or phone Mary (25 891851), if you would like to visit our book room or request our catalogue.

Bookstore

We also produce the “Covenant Reformed News,” a monthly paper containing short, biblical articles. If you would like to receive it free by post or e-mail (or both), or if you would like more information about the CPRC, please contact Pastor Stewart (pastor@cprc.co.uk).

The foyer of our church building displays a good number of our new books (devotionals, Christian biographies, commentaries, Bible study guides, church historical and doctrinal works, children’s educational materials, etc.),

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First Ballymena Presbyterian Church May Services

For more information on how your Church can feature in

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Chatterbox contact william@chatterboxni.co.uk

May 8th 11:30am Rev Wm Sinclair 6:30pm Mr David McMillan ( Communion ) May 15th 11:30am Rev George Preston 6:30pm Rev Wm Sinclair ( Family Service, Evening meal, Worship and Praise) (Creche & Childrens Church Available) May 22nd 11:30am Mr David McMillan 6:30pm Rev Wm Sinclair ( Coaching for Christ Service ) May 29th 11:30am Rev Wm Sinclair / Mr Philip Kerr 6:30pm Mr David McMillan (Crown Jesus)

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page 16

may 2016

Chatterbox

Who are you?

in the spotlight: Jonny Juke Why do you love it so much?

I’m Juke, a freelance filmmaker, photographer and music producer based in Randalstown, Northern Ireland. Professionally, I offer a range of audiovisual services including; photography, animation, music videos, short films, voice overs, song writing and music production.

What do you do?

I studied Art throughout school and graduated from SAE Institute London (Filmmaking, Honours).

I’m a big fan of experimentation, most techniques coming from trial and error. I like to push beyond taking a simple photograph by injecting an element of exaggeration or fantasy - creating images using my own aesthetic filter.

What inspires you?

I try to look for inspiration in everything. Life is so vast in colours, textures and shapes, even the most mundane everyday thing can spark the brightest idea. Each project usually has its own source of inspiration - like a model who radiates a certain energy. I’m greatly influenced by cinema.

Being creative is when I feel most in flow. It’s a brilliant tool to express and understand yourself in ever evolving ways.

Personally, it’s important to honour every aspect, from the beautiful to the ugly, and I think art is a healthy way to do that. It’s also really fun.

Where can we find COntact me: info@jonnyjuke.com your work?

My full portfolio of Image, Video and Audio is featured on my website. There you can also find links to my Facebook, YouTube , Soundcloud and Instagram - all of which are “JONNYJUKE”.

Who are you?

My name is Joanne Campbell, I am an artist who has been in East Antrim all my life, I was born in Larne, raised in Carrickfergus and am now living in Whitehead. I combine my academic background in psychology, counselling and primary school teaching with my love of art to paint vibrant commissions and to facilitate community art, through groups and art demonstrations.

07715976235

JonnyJuke.com.

in the spotlight: Joanne Campbell

What do you do?

I paint with acrylic paints, I love their versatility and I stay with this medium but experiment on different surfaces such as canvas, slate, Hessian and wood. I am trained in art to A level and to teach it to Primary age children, through Stranmillis University College. I feel I am constantly learning and challenging myself and I attend Ballycarry art club each Wednesday morning in Whitehead Pavilion to meet other artists.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by colours and textures, especially in nature. For example I painted a fox on Hessian in autumnal colours and enjoyed painting flowing water in the Carp painting and the flames behind my Jim Morrison piece. An historical event, such as the Belfast Blitz and my grandfather’s involvement in it, also inspired me to do a painting.

Why do you love it so much?

I love feeling refreshed and creative through painting commissions and facilitating art sessions. Through my individual and group work, I get to meet a lot of people and have the opportunity to encourage and paint different subjects every week. For example, recently, I demonstrated painting an Irish cottage on slate to the Women’s Institute in Whitehead and facilitated a group in Antrim to paint flowers on wood for their allotment. This week I am painting a local scene on slate, which is going to Japan.

Where can we find your work? contact me:

My work can be found in Tommy Workman’s Framing & Art Gallery, 5 Point Street Larne BT40 1Hy, Om Noms, The Healthy Food Company, 58 Main Street, Larne, BT40 1Sp and Belfast Castle Gift Shop, Antrim Rd, Belfast BT15 5GR

You can also find me online!

I would love to hear from you; Facebook.com/JoanneCampbellArtwork Email mrs_j_campbell@hotmail.com

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page 20

may 2016

On Spiders’ Webs The Joys of Technology..

Just saying that, when the TV was gone and we were chatting away, I suddenly became aware of an impressive spider’s cobweb in the corner- just behind the TV cabinet. It had obviously been spinning away to its heart’s content and now its cover was blown, poor critter. Being very sympathetic to all wildlife, especially the harmless variety, my friend decided to leave it alone – horror of horrors to those of you who scatter all spiders with the broom and duster!. Now, I am not one to worry about cobwebs myself – my own spiders are quite welcome to spin their webs as long as they do it discreetly and don’t attract attention by creating webs at eye level for visitors to comment upon.

However it did make me think of the endless war we wage on dust and dirt, year in year out.

It’s like painting the Forth Bridge – as soon as you finish it you need to start again. Every year in spring I seem to take a cleaning urge which happily generally only lasts about a week.

Then, in an exhausted stupor, I relax into the easy going relationship with the mop and brush which I have enjoyed most of my life.

As for my wonderful Dyson, it’s not likely to go bust under stress of overwork and lurks quite contentedly in its cosy cupboard under the stairs in between annual cleaning frenzies.

That’s one machine that will probably last another twenty years! It does seem pointless to get overexcited about a layer of dust which will only settle again once your back is turned.

I used to try to give myself some added incentive by making the Cleaning fun. Put on some great dance music– bend and stretch, flex those muscles, do some jiving with the mop –but I clearly have a higher expectation of excitement in my life. Running up and down the stairs waving a feather duster is not high on my list of things to do on a daily basis. Probably only a source of laughter for anybody passing by who happens to glance through the window at the time of flaffing the duster. Or a visit to Accident and Emergency with a sprained ankle.

Though we do have things so much easier than women did in the past. I browsed through an old book recently – ‘Tips from the old housewives’, compiled by Elizabeth Drury, which is full of advice for women in the postwar era, mainly women who no longer had maids. It’s a great book for tips on anything from cleaning windows using newspaper and a mixture of water, paraffin and methylated spirits to washing the chandeliers- for the posh housewife of course. It’s full of homemade recipes for products we now buy in a bottle or spray. And the remedy for a cough?...’boil together half a cup of treacle and a piece of butter the size of a walnut and squeeze this into the juice of a lemon..’

As for Spring Cleaning? I quote: ‘this is something to be feared, being very disruptive to the household. Some people, especially husbands, would move out to a hotel while it was going on’. Finally, ‘smug housewives would say that their daily cleaning routine makes such an upheaval unnecessary’.

Imagine- Smug Housewifery is a goal I have never achieved, thanks to my tolerance of the creepy crawly.

Although the book gives advice on ridding the household of pests such as cockroaches, beetles, flies and mice, there is no mention of the Spider.

Live and let live, I say.. Here’s to the Spider, who’s great for catching those flies!!!

What’s a girl to do when her TV goes bust? That’s the quandary facing one of my friends. One evening last week her old but beloved TV expired in a puff of smoke, or more poetically, a plume of smoke. Admittedly, it had been rather temperamental in the run up to its final departure. Now and again it threatened her with squiggly lines and fragmented pictures, accompanied by a sparking chirp or two.

Predictably at the most interesting part of a drama or film. However, the TV usually recovered in time for her to get the general gist of the story. Unfortunately, the moment of expiry coincided with the end of a Miss Marple murder mystery so she never did find out who the body in the library was. Most annoying, both for my friend and the poor victim.

While she sorts out the replacement my visits to her house have changed dramatically – the old art of conversation has been dragged out and dusted off. While we got off to a slow start, once we had acknowledged the empty corner where the TV once lived, we found we were quite enjoying this new era. A good old gossip to the clink of the teacup/wineglass and rustle of biscuit packets is a great bonding experience. Whatever was life like before TV?

A laugh for the ladies Written by Katie D Still the problem remains- a new TV... The old one was carried away the next day, needing two sturdy men to manhandle it through the front door and thenceforth away to the land from whence no TV returns. Its corner is so empty and still.

Now, my friend is not one of those reckless people who jump in and purchase the first new shiny state of the art model which might call alluringly to her in the Shop.

If this were a shoe shopping scenario things would have been so different! What I mean is, if she wanted a new pair of flat sensible heels she would be tempted past the ‘sensible’ racks in the Shop toward the staggeringly high sparkly red stilettos or silver spiky heeled sandals. Such a buzz to be had when the incredibly beautiful but impractical purchases are carried home to nestle beside the plain brogues in the wardrobe.

Now replace Buzz with Stress. She has gone all out to research the intricacies of the modern TV. And there seems to be no end to the intricacies. LED, HD, HD Ready, Smart – It’s a quagmire of information. The only definite feature she is sure of is the size, which narrows the field only slightly.

Another friend of ours, Bob, a real techno wizard, has explained all the jargon that accompanies literature on TVs and this

time to clear out your make up bag girls, summers on the way!

Dare I say it? With summer just around the corner it’s time to rethink your makeup kit.

Let me introduce you to High Definition makeup. High definition is the awardwinning beauty destination, globally renowned for innovative treatments, world class cosmetics and industry leading professional artistry; the go-to brand for countless celebrities, makeup artists and beauty editors.

Initially established as a bespoke eyebrow brand known as HD Brows, High Definition’s offering has since expanded due to demand from the public for more treatments and products with the same quality and professionalism.

In 2014 the premium capsule makeup collection, consisting of 86 exclusive and innovative products, was launched and has since found itself to be the top of many beauty editors wish-list. Each product is specially formed with the finest ingredients and designed to achieve a truly faultless finish.

Here are just a few must haves for this summer:

1. Fluid Foundation This foundation is perfect as it is long-lasting and buildable; helping to conceal blemishes and imperfections whilst keeping the natural radiance of your skin. Thanks to a

Chatterbox

has been much better than any visit to the Shop. In the Shop any advice on the different models was more or less- “a lot of our customers go for that one” or “that’s a popular make”! Personally I have had a few similar experiences on visits to the Shop, to choose anything from saucepans to washing machines.

Basically, she requires a TV that will last another twenty years, although it seems that sadly they are not made to last that long anymore.

I feel she is near to the final decision and so I have begun a “bottom drawer” for the big night of the Switch On – just to celebrate the comeback of the Entertainment. While there will be the required hobnobs of course, I think we could break open the M&S special chocolate assortment for the occasion. I am hoping Bob will convince her to go for the all singing all dancing TV, though once the novelty wears off we might switch off and return to the old gossip for a change.

And just a reminder, My James(Nesbitt of course) is starring in a new drama called ‘The Secret ‘ on Friday nights, so here’s hoping the purchase is made very soon and I can watch him in HD..or is it HD ready????

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OPENING ON THE 30TH MAY 2016!!

Soon to open on the grounds of Kilcreggan Urban Farm & Garden Centre is The Dancing Goat Café.

This delightful spot will be an added attraction to an already popular local destination.

The Dancing Goat Café will have a scrumptious selection of Savory & Sweet treats to delight all, with

Gourmet Coffee & Quality Teas.

Running alongside the Dancing Goat Café will be the new African Pygmy Goat enclosure to house the newest additions to Kilcreggan Urban Farm, Lord, Lady, Lulu & Lolee.

The Dancing Goat Café will be staffed by a superbly diverse

group of individuals who will be happy to take care of all your needs and strive to make your visit to the café a fantastic experience which will encourage you to return again and again.

The Dancing Goat Café will provide not only fantastic food and beverages but will also

provide opportunities to local adults with learning disabilities through training and supported employment. Within the first year alone we hope to have up to 15 people working and training in the café.

All the profits made in the Dancing Goat Café will go straight

Steven Bell, Robin Ramsey and Philip McAllister ready to tee of at Ballymena Golf Club on Saturday during the Wilson's of Rathkenny tournament.

Looking for a good round at Ballymena Golf Club on Saturday during the Bill Rainey Memorial event were Jimmy Eagleson, Dessie McCartney, Carl McAuley.

find us on:

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON! Ballymena Golf Club on Saturday during the Wilson's of Rathkenny tournament saw golfers Gareth McCullough, John Montgomery, Nigel Douglas and Charlie Robinson.

Photographed at Ballymena Golf Club on Saturday at the Bill Rainey Memorial were Brian Dempster, Willie Montgomery, and Gordon Caldwell.

BALLYMENA GOLF CLUB

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page 22

may 2016

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may 2016

Smart eating with Sally-Ann Two days of reasonable heat and sunshine last month and suddenly the shops are sold out of burger buns and people are wearing their shorts and flip flops!!!

Then all of a sudden we yo-yo back to rain, hail, sleet and snow.

The truth of the matter is that..... summer WILL come eventually but NOW is the time we should be focusing on those summer bodies because “How we eat today will determine how we look in our flip flops!”

We all struggle with our body shape at times and summer clothes don’t really camouflage those unwanted bumps and bulges, so what can we do about it?

Well the first step is having a look at what goes into your shopping trolley.....is your grocery shop helping you shed a few pounds before the summer or is it a total nightmare!!

I like to think that heading into grocery stores is like going into battle!! Without a doubt all shops carry out their market research and strategically place essential items all around the store to get

you walking up and down the aisles buying even more than you went in for in the first place.... ring any bells?? The seductive smell of the freshly baked bread and the keenly displayed hot food counters/ cafes lure us into buying that extra ‘treat’, not originally on our list!

Unfortunately the BOGOF (buy one get one free) offers seldom provide us with extra carrots, broccoli, onions, apples etc. So remember that BOGOF offers are not really saving you money at all if you end up paying for it on the scales!!

Just when you think that you have mastered the enemy assault course successfully, there is that last hurdle....the chocolate near the checkouts......say no more, we have all been ‘taken out’ at his point!!

So how do we equip ourselves for the onslaught of ‘enemy tactics’?

The first step is being aware that

food review: Dobbins Inn Carrickfergus It doesn’t get much more central than Carrickfergus’ Dobbins Inn. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the historic Castle and St Nicholas Church, this 13th Century family run Inn is also one of Ireland’s oldest pubs.

At over 500 years old, Dobbins does a good job of oozing history without being cold and uncomfortable and if you’re planning on spending the night, it even has some modern updates like complimentary WI-FI, a TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

With a secret tunnel leading all the way to Carrickfergus Castle, a ghost room and a roaring coal burning fire, Dobbins has all the makings of a true haunted hotel, and if you’re lucky, you might even bump into the ghost of Elizabeth Dobyn (also known as Maud) who is said to roam the halls, stroking the faces of the patrons.

Aside from the hotel side of the Inn, the property also boasts a public bar and a 70 seater restaurant, which is perhaps a little dated, but is as atmospheric and cosy as you would expect.

The menu is extensive and wide

ranging, with everything from a full Sunday carvery to traditional Irish and European dishes, and you can always count on the ‘Town’s Best Steak Deal’ which serves two ribeye steaks with sides, sauces, onion rings, garlic bread and a bottle of wine for only £28.

95.

Another great deal on offer is the ‘Cinema Deal’ which serves a main course, a side and a cinema ticket for the Omniplex down the road for only £12.95, which is definitely worth the money considering you would pay around £7 for the cinema ticket alone.

Of the choices offered on the cinema deal, I’d recommend the chicken burger with cheese, bacon and tobacco onions which is a hearty and surprisingly tasty feed to keep you going through any film. A good sized chicken breast coated in crispy breadcrumbs with plenty of tobacco onions, the quality of the food here is superb.

Every Friday and Saturday from 4pm – 7pm the bar also do a two for the price of one deal on cocktails with all sorts of interesting concoctions on offer, making this not only a great spot for a bite to eat, but also the perfect

they exist and putting steps in place to help us be more mindful of what goes into our trolley. After all, if we want that summer body then we have to plan for it now, so start planning meals each week that will promote healthy eating or weight loss. I don’t mean boring old diets of cardboard and limp lettuce leaves, neither would I be enticed to lock myself in a cupboard and drink meal replacement shakes....NO! The best strategy we can have when advancing into battle is to plan our week’s healthy menu and from that we have a ready determined shopping list to keep us focused and not impulse buy the offers set out to trip us up on route.

Cooking from scratch is the best menu of all...good healthy fruit, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs and beans/pulses together with complex carbohydrates (e.g. brown rice, pasta or potatoes/sweet potatoes) for energy....basically just as our grannies etc. ate in the past.

Ditch the processed stuff where possible and go fresh.

Our next line of attack is to be ‘label aware’. All food packaging has a nutritional label on the back of it and some have a traffic light approach on the front to help us make healthier choices.

Remember that sugar is the number one contributor to obesity location to start a night out from, with many other pubs within walking distance.

Having been around for such a long time, businesses such as Dobbins Inn can often get over looked amongst the newer pubs and restaurants on offer, but with such good quality good, great atmosphere and even better prices, it’s places like these that we’ll keep coming back too.

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in society so check the labels for hidden sugars. You may be shocked by your findings...I know I was at first. Guidelines to follow as suggested by the government health guidelines.... aim for foods with 5% or less sugar in them, in fact the lower the better and the same goes for Saturated fats in foods.

So if you see me checking out the labels in the stores you will know what I’m doing.

Label awareness will definitely help you to a summer body because...

The labels on your foods will eventually determine the labels on your clothes!!

Happy Shopping.

a delicious smoothie recipe under 200 calories!

C-Blast Smoothie Pink grapefruit, pineapple and strawberries are super-high in vitamin C, a disease-fighting antioxidant. And if you tend to have low iron levels, it’s good to know that vitamin C helps with absorption of this mineral. So power up your morning with this delicious smoothie. Yum!

This fantastic smoothie is delicious and packed with antioxidants. Even better? it’s less than 200 calories!

Ingredients 1 large pink grapefruit, peeled, seeded and cut into chunks 1/2 cup (125 mL) crushed pineapple, canned or fresh 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh or frozen strawberries (if using fresh, add 1/4 cup [60 mL] ice for extra froth) 1/2 cup (125 mL) non-fat Greek yogurt

Directions Blend all ingredients together.

Nutrition Serves two Per serving: 159 calories, 7 g protein, 0 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 35 g carbohydrates, 5 g fibre, 0 mg cholesterol, 26 mg sodium.

Calories per serving = 159

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page 26

may 2016

See Advert Below

speech and learning difficulties had a lot of temper tantrums, sleeping issues, difficulty interacting with other children and as parents we always had to be careful when taking Ryan out to cafes, shopping etc as he would get upset very easily over the slightest thing.

I hate to say it now but it was safer to not take him out most of the time.

NO MORE TANTRUMS!

RYAN’S A HAPPY BOY THANKS TO LEARNING BREAKTHROUGH!

In regards to Ryan we can definitely say that we have a different boy since he started on the Learning breakthrough programme.

Before Ryan started the

programme he had quite a number of learning and speech difficulties and was getting a lot of support through school, speech therapy, occupational therapy etc.

Ryan, like most children with

It’s hard now to recount all the problems but he did have quite a few difficulties.

When Ryan started the programme we started to see changes with him within a few weeks.

His personality really started to change and he became less frustrated with things in general, less temper tantrums and he started to be able to communicate with us better but also with others outside his family circle.

After a few months on the programme we witnessed him have an actual conversation with an adult for the first time ever, where both Ryan and the adult knew what each other was talking about!

This was a major milestone for Ryan as he always became hugely frustrated when people didn’t understand him.

We also had glowing reports from

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his school, speech therapists and occupational therapists who have also seen great improvements in Ryan all round.

Ryan’s concentration greatly improved which really benefited him in school.

programme.

Susan has been fantastic at giving us additional support, words of advice and suggesting other exercises that help Ryan with his concentration and helping with his co-ordination.

I really think the programme helped with this as it was clear how as soon as he started to focus better on the exercises this correlated with his improved focus in school work.

Socially now Ryan is great and we can do so much more with him and without any nervousness.

His sleep patterns are absolutely normal and tantrums are pretty much non-existent.

Ryan still does present with some delayed learning issues but he has made so much progress in all areas whilst on the programme.

We had great delight to hear from his teacher last month that Ryan’s reading had advanced by a full year between June and September this year.

He had no additional therapy over the summer other than the programme and some reading at home.

Again Ryan’s confidence and his overall personality has completely changed in the last 18 months and we are so thankful for all the support from Susan and the learning breakthrough

Ryan’s occupational therapist also shadowed Susan for a time and then started employing a number of the exercises from the programme into Ryan’s OT sessions. I think this is absolute testimony that the programme works.

There’s probably lots of other really obvious changes in Ryan that I’ve missed but I would recommend the programme to anyone who has children with similar issues.

For further information or to book a free evaluation appointment please refer to Learning Breakthrough’s advert below.

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page 28

may 2016

Run the world’s biggest half marathon for Meningitis Research Foundation

Chatterbox

Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) has a number of guaranteed places available for the worlds’ biggest and best half marathon and the charity wants you to join them.

As well as the largest field of runners, many of who are running for a special cause, the 13.1 mile route of the Great North Run is lined by thousands of supporters, making it one of the friendliest and most uplifting races in the world to be part of. MRF Fundraising Officer, Karen Dunlop commented, ‘Perhaps you have recently completed your first 10k and are looking for your next challenge or you may be an experienced runner who has never secured that golden ticket for the Great North Run. Whatever your motivation, MRF would love to welcome you onto our team.

By simply committing to raise a minimum of £350 sponsorship in support of our work, you can be one of the 57,000 runners at the start line on Sunday 11th September.’

All MRF runners will receive a charity running vest and lots of fundraising support, as well as great hospitability and a post-race massage at Team MRF’s finisher’s marquee.

Sign up today by calling the office on 028 9032 1283 or email karend@meningitis.org.

The charity would also love to hear from anyone who secured their own place through

the ballot and could raise some sponsorship in support of MRF’s work funding cuttingedge research into the disease, raising awareness of the symptoms and supporting those affected.

Meningitis and septicaemia are uniquely fast-acting and devastating diseases, which can result in death or lifelong after effects for those who survive ranging from fatigue and reduced concentration through to deafness and multiple amputations. Despite a reduction in numbers affected in the UK, sadly 3,400 families are still affected by the diseases every year. For parents of infants and teenagers, both of which are high ‘at-risk’ groups, MRF’s commitment to continued awareness-raising and funding high impact, need-informed research means the difference between life and death. The charity depends on the generosity of the local community to sustain its vital work and taking part in this year’s Great North Run is one brilliant way that you can get behind and support this important cause.

LOCAL WOMAN, RACHEL FRIEL CELEBRATES AFTER COMPLETING LAST YEAR’S RACE IN SUPPORT OF MENINGITIS RESEARCH FOUNDATION

“Osteopathy has helped me get movement back in my shoulder” says Thomas from Carrickfergus

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I had been suffering with right shoulder and mid-back pain for months upon months before I made an appointment with Becky at Carrick Osteopathy Clinic.

The pain had been hindering me a lot as I work part-time as an electrician and even the simplest of jobs were causing a severe catching sensation in my shoulder. The pain in my shoulder had become so bad I had to go see a specialist, who diagnosed me with shoulder impingement and told me I was going to need surgery. When I had my first appointment with Becky, she explained that there was a lot she could do for shoulder impingement and that we would hopefully be able to get to the root of the problem and prevent me from undergoing surgery. Becky explained that the pain in my shoulder and the pain in my mid-back were related, and how shoulder movement relies on a certain amount of spinal movement.

She explained that she would be working on not only my shoulder, but also my neck, chest, arm and mid-back to help resolve the overall pain. After the first session I hadn’t felt much relief, but after the second session I started to get a lot more movement in my shoulder, but still had the catching sensation. I went back to see Becky weekly, she worked into the tight muscles around my shoulder by stretching and massaging them, as well as increasing space between the joints in my shoulder to try and release the impingement. Each time I went to see Becky I was steadily getting more movement into my shoulder and my

back whilst also reducing in pain. After 6 sessions I was able to see just how much more movement I had and was able to reach further above my head than I’d been able to in months, with no surgery in sight! Becky has taught me how to manage my pain at home with a lot of stretching and strengthening techniques to prevent my shoulder issue from returning! I have already recommended Becky to my family and friends and would continue to recommend her work for the relief she’s given me.

Thomas Haggan (58 ) Carrickfergus

page 30

may 2016

Chatterbox

Why is a credit union car loan better?

When it comes to financing the purchase of a car, many people simply look for the lowest rate on offer and believe it to be the best option.

Headline rates may attract the most attention, but the devil is very much in the detail. Many ‘car finance loans’ oered by garages and some banks are actually hire purchase agreements.

The main dierence between using a personal loan and a hire purchase agreement to buy a car is that with a personal loan you borrow money, pay for your car, and own it immediately. With a hire purchase agreement, you don’t own the car until you make the final repayment. This means you cannot sell the car if you run into problems making your repayments.

If the motor dealer is arranging the hire purchase agreement, the motor dealer acts as an agent for a finance company and earns commission to arrange the finance for you. In this case, the motor dealer is acting as a credit intermediary and must be authorised to act on behalf of the finance company.

When you use a hire purchase

agreement to buy a car, the motor dealer sells the car to the finance company. The finance company then rents the car to you for an agreed period of time in return for a set monthly repayment over a number of years.

Watch out for the range of additional fees and charges which you may incur as part of a hire purchase agreement. This would include a documentation fee (for setting up the agreement) and completion fee (a fee charged to end the agreement and pass ownership to the car purchaser).

If you run into diiculty in meeting the terms of the hire purchase agreement, you may be charged a penalty fee for missed repayments, a rescheduling fee (if you need to change the terms of the agreement) and a higher rate of interest may be charged on any repayments which you missed.

DACIA VOTED FOURTH BEST MANUFACTURER IN AUTO EXPRESS DRIVER POWER 2016 AWARDS Ƈ †“¯† ÿÊâÂ?™ §ÊüÙ⏠Êüâ ʧ Ĺ–Ĺ• Â’Ă™Â†Ă…Â™Ăœ ÂŻĂ… ǤüâÊ Ä…Ă–Ă™Â?ĂœĂœ Ù¯ÿÂ?Ă™ NĂŠÄ€Â?Ă™ ŕœŔř Ç¤Ä€Â†Ă™Â™Ăœ Ƈ *ÄÖÙÊÿÂ?Ăœ ĂŠĂ… §¯§â Ö¿†“Â? ÂŻĂ… ÂżÂ†ĂœĂ˘ ĆÂ?Â†Ă™ĆŞĂœ leading ownership survey Ƈ †“¯† ÂŻĂ… âÂ? âÊÖ §¯ÿÂ? ĆÅü§†“âüÙÂ?Ă™Ăœ §ÊÙ âÂ? third consecutive year Ƈ †“¯† 8ʨ†Å = g ÿÊâÂ?™ Â?ĂœĂ˘ "†Ä¯¿Ć †Ù ’Ć Ù¯ÿÂ?Ă™ NĂŠÄ€Â?Ă™ ºü™¨Â?Ăœ

The conditions of some hire purchase agreements result in monthly payments not being evenly spread out and you may pay less in the earlier months of the agreement. This can make your monthly repayments appear more aordable. However, you may have to pay a large final payment (known as a balloon payment) at the end of the term, a payment you may not have budgeted to meet. It can be a real sting in the tail for some.

Thankfully, a car loan from your local credit union is much straight

Dacia has been voted the fourth best brand in the Auto Express Driver Power 2016 Awards, improving on its impressive fifth place finish in last year’s survey and eclipsing many luxury and premium brands.

The ‘shockingly aordable’ brand recorded a score of 90.43 per cent overall after the feedback of satisfied owners saw Dacia triumph against many of the other 31 ranked brands.

Since Dacia’s debut in the leading ownership survey in 2014, the brand has featured in the top five best manufacturers. The fourth overall finish follows the manufacturer winning its first ever category in the annual Auto Express Driver Power Awards, with the capacious and versatile Logan

forward. Paul, CEO of Ballymena Credit Union said "You borrow the money from us, pay for the car and you own the car immediately.

You agree a repayment schedule with us. If you run into diiculty, you can talk to us to see if you can come to an agreement on the repayment terms. Should you be in the happy position of being able to repay the loan early, you may do so without any penalty charges."

Having arranged finance with your local credit union in advance of going shopping for a car also puts

MCV estate topping the overall category for Best Family Car in this year’s survey.

Brian Walters, Director, Research and Insights at Driver Powersaid: “Dacia owners praised their vehicles for reliability, the single most important factor in vehicle satisfaction according to Driver Power respondents.�

Walters continued: “Vehicle reliability is critical for any brand, but it is especially so for a relatively new brand establishing a foothold in the UK market, such as Dacia. Dacia’s performance in the 2016 Driver Power should be an invitation to new-vehicle buyers in the UK to add Dacia to their shopping list.�

Commenting on Dacia’s placing in the top five best manufacturers for

you in a stronger position. It helps to know exactly how much you have to spend and because you are not going cap-in-hand to the dealer, you are eectively a cash buyer and you may be able to negotiate a better deal.

So if you’re thinking about your options for financing a car purchase, look no further than Ballymena Credit Union.

For further information please contact Ballymena Credit Union on 02825649010.

the third consecutive year, Louise O’Sullivan, Head of Dacia, said: “Not only sustaining, but improving on our position shows that Dacia continues to go from strength to strength and is able to complement the unrivalled aordability of its vehicles with levels of quality and owner satisfaction that are amongst the very best that drivers can experience.â€?

In the ten years since relaunching in Europe, Dacia has sold more than 3,500,000 vehicles in Europe and the Mediterranean basin. In the UK in 2015, Dacia sold 26,228 vehicles, an increase of 10 per cent compared to 2014. Over 74,000 Dacia models have been sold in the UK since its launch in January 2013.Â

page 31

may 2016

PIMP MY RIDE HITS CARRICKFERGUS

ROTHMANS RALLY TEAM VISIT CARNOISSEUR

Saturday 7th May saw the birth of a new era for all ages and type of car enthusiast in Northern Ireland, with the opening of Automanic and Carnoisseur on the Woodburn Road, Carrickfergus.

The Automanic Group incorporates several specialist areas under its wing, from all aspects of Car Accessories and upgrade parts, Vehicle Parts Fitting Centre and Full Professional body shop.

Within the showroom, there are three top worldwide known franchises; Carnoisseur, VW Heritage and The Signature Store. Carnoisseur oers everything you could wish for when it comes to modifying and upgrading your vehicle, with over 960 styles of alloys across 39 top brands, Suspension, Brakes plus all aspects of car care, detailing and accessories.

For all you classic VW enthusiasts, VW Heritage are available instore, so if you are looking for a wing for your 1965 VW Beetle, a wheel trim for

your 1985 T25 Campervan, a grille for your MK2 Golf GTI... in fact anything at all for your classic VW, then you will find it here. Also available is the full range of stylish Piloti racing footwear, with Carnoisseur Carrickfergus being the sole Ireland Piloti agent, and if your looking a gift for a friend or family member, then why not come and purchase a classic steering wheel or model car signed by the greats such as Sir Stirling Moss, Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill etc through the Signatures Stores specialist gift range catalogue.

As if this already wasn't enough, On-site in the Automanic groups premises is a full professional insurance approved body shop and fitting centre...

So if you purchase anything

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from the Carnoisseur showroom such as Alloy wheels and suspension, then the team can fit it also, and you can drive away with everything installed.

The bodyworks and fitting centre has the best guys in the business covering all aspects of vehicle bodywork repair, custom and modification whatever you require.

The time has never been better for such a business to hit the streets, and the company logo of "All things Automotive" couldn't be more appropriate.

If you have any enquiries, give Simon and the team a call on 02893 555888, and they will help you in whatever way possible, or call in and chat to them at 36 A-D Woodburn Road, Carrickfergus, BT38 8PX

MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE DREAM

page 32

may 2016

CHECKING FOR WHEEL AND TYRE DAMAGE They carry the car’s total weight, and transmit to the road the power that drives and accelerates it over the many changes of surface and gradient encountered. They must also transmit the forces generated by braking and cornering.

Because they are in constant contact with surfaces that are frequently abrasive, damaged and even broken, tyres are

Chatterbox

Tyres are put under tremendous strains when a car is being driven. There are only four relatively small areas of tyre tread in contact with the road. more liable to wear and physical damage than any other car component. For safety’s sake, keep a regular check on them - and on the wheels that carry them. Make it at least once a fortnight, and also before any long or high-speed journeys.

Badly worn or damaged tyres are both illegal and potentially lethal: they can cost you your licence - or even your life. It

is better to look over the tyres and wheels while they are on the car than not to inspect them at all. But for a thorough examination of the inside walls, the wheels should be taken off about once a year (See Checking, removing and refitting road wheels).

Inspecting tyre treads and sidewalls The tread is the obvious place to start looking for tyre damage. Begin by inspecting carefully the whole circumference for abnormal wear and flaws in the pattern. Abnormal widening of the grooves, or the spaces between tread blocks, usually means that the tyres are ageing. If a series of cracks is evident, replace the tyre - even though there may still be 1-3 mm of tread left. Pay special attention to the small slots and cuts - known as ‘sipes’.

Look for embedded fragments of sharp flint and stones, or the nails and tacks that are the usual cause of punctures and can cause internal damage. That sort of debris can be prised out with a screwdriver blade. But removing it may leave the tyre with a slow puncture. Check for loss of pressure, and if it occurs have a tyre-repair shop take the tyre off the rim, inspect it, and make a permanent repair. Look also for ‘flats’ in the tread, worn perhaps by severe emergency braking - when

the tyre of a locked wheel slides on the road, wearing off the rubber and generating a lot of heat. Abnormally severe wear at the tread shoulders or uneven tread wear are warning signs that should never be ignored. They could be the result of more fundamental problems perhaps in the tracking or suspension and could soon lead to failure at speed (See Avoiding tyre wear).Bulges in the sidewalls are signs of carcass damage. Long before cords are showing through, these tyres are unsafe at speed. Sometimes the damage may not be visible, so if you have suspicions - perhaps after hitting a kerb - but cannot see any exterior evidence, ask a professional tyre fitter to remove the suspect tyre and examine it.

Often, fractures are visible inside before they become obvious outside. Any break in the carcass construction means replacing the tyre.

It cannot be repaired safely.

Checking the tread depth If the tread depth can be measured against the rim of a coin, it is down to 1mm and the tyre is dangerous. Tyres with treads of less than 1 mm deep are illegal in Britain. The treads must be at least 1 mm deep over 75 per cent of their tread width all round the tyre, and there must be evidence of some tread on the rest..However, most experts think this is not enough, and that it is unwise to drive on tyres in such a worn state.

Many other countries including most European and North American states - demand that the minimum tread depth should be present across the full width of the tread in contact with the road.

European regulations are likely to come into force in Britain under EEC regulations. A minimum of 1.5 mm is common, and 2 mm is strongly recommended in the interests of safety. In practice, it is sensible to take a tread depth of 2 mm as the stage at which tyres should be renewed. As soon as tyres begin to show signs of wear, make frequent checks. Even with new tyres, regular. checks can also reveal unusual wear patterns, which point to other problems. Fit a screwdriver blade into the tyre grooves, mark the depth with your thumb and measure the depth against a metric rule. You can make a simple check on tyre-tread depths with an implement such as a small screwdriver, which has a narrow, straight blade that will fit into the grooves between treads or tread blocks; you also need a millimetre rule or measure. Put the screwdriver blade into the groove at right-angles to the tread surface, then use your thumbnail to mark the surface level on the blade. Taking care not to move your thumb, measure off the depth on your ruler.

SIGNS OF TYRE WEAR AND DAMAGE, CHECK THE TREAD FOR ABNORMAL WEAR PATTERNS, CUTS OR EMBEDDED NAILS OR STONES. CHECK THE SIDEWALLS FOR CUTS, CRACKS, ABRASIONS OR BULGES.

Tyre sizes and markings

Fit a screwdriver blade into the tyre grooves, mark the depth with your thumb and measure the depth against a metric rule.

Most new tyres are radial-ply tyres. All reputable new radials are marked with the size and speed rating, cross-plies with the size only. Tyres without such markings are best avoided. Generally, tyres have two size markings - the width of the tyre and the diameter of the wheel rim. The size may be given in inches or millimetres or a mixture of both; sizes solely in inches are on cross-ply tyres. A tyre marked 6.40-10, for example, is 6.4 in. wide on a 10 in. diameter wheel, one marked 135-355 is 135 mm wide on a 355 mm wheel, and one marked 165-15 is 165 mm wide on a 15 in. wheel. Letters interposed between the sizes are speed ratings, for example 155SR10. For radial-ply tyres speed ratings are: SR up to 113 mph, HR up to 130mph, and VR over 130mph. On newer tyres with EEC approved markings, there is only one letter interposed - R for radial - and the speed rating letter is separate. A number beside it, such as 155R10 76 S, is the load index for the maximum tyre load in kilograms; 76, for example, indicates a 400 kg load. Low-profile tyres also show the aspect ratio - the percentage of depth to width. For example, 145/70 SR10 means that the tyre depth is 70 per cent of the width.

Using a tyre depth gauge If the tread depth can be measured against the rim of a coin, it is down to 1mm and the tyre is dangerous.

Insert the probe of the gauge into a groove in the tread and press down. Read the depth on the scale. Inexpensive tread-depth gauges are also available, which make checking even easier, and more precise. Make sure that the probe is extended fully, then insert the tip into the groove and press down. The tread depth can be read off on the gauge scale. Check all round each tyre. Move the car slightly to include the sections of tyre on which the car was standing. Some tyres are made with built-in tread-depth warning markers usually bars running across the inside of the grooves. When the tops of the bars become flush with the tread, the tread depth is almost at its legal limit and the tyre should be renewed.

Insert the probe of the gauge into a groove in the tread and press down.

Read the depth on the scale.

For more tips on how a car works, please visit:

www.howacarworks.com

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page 34

may 2016

Chatterbox

The Messy Pattern of Business Success in business is not a straight line, nor does it always follow the pattern you desire.

If you enjoy any craft or hobby with specific instruction, it can be hard to allow for diversion off the desired outcome. Embroidery is my chosen hobby, following a detailed plan but there is great temptation to veer off and risk the unknown.

Working with small businesses I advise the importance of clear objectives, a clear focus to increase and sustain growth. Such focus and strength will allow businesses to survive when the pattern of business takes a diversion off course. Keeping employees informed and engaging their focus and loyalty will support the delivery of objectives. All employees need to live the focus of the business in daily operations to contribute.

“Always treat your employees

exactly as you want them to treat your best customers.”

When was the last time you asked your employees and customers what they thought of the business, its products or services? Evaluate where your business is now and plan for the year ahead.

Planning for the year ahead is a daunting task for any business but especially difficult for a small business allocating resources and how they should be allocated.

Tackling this is to outline the core objectives on what is to be achieved and breaking it down into manageable chunks: quarters, months, weeks and days. Looking at each time slot, what could be focused on to set off on the journey to meet objectives. Allocating methods of delivery alongside an allocation of resources. The

what’s on around the borough THERE’S LOTS OF FUN ACTIVITIES ON AROUND CARRICK, LARNE AND BALLYMENA, HERE’S WHATS GOING ON IN A NUTSHELL CUT IT OUT AND STICK IT ON YOUR FRIDGE!

Lat

h

greatest resource a small business has is the vision of its owners and its staff. Secondary to this is its marketing plan, and yes this should be a plan!

A marketing plan should carry the business forward for a year and how customers will be engaged, entice them to buy, increase footfall and ultimately grow sales.

Devising a marketing plan need not be complicated and this is very much dependent on the business type and its objectives.

An often overwhelming opportunity to commit to digital

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ield

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marketing can but pressure on a business so Clear Woods Consultancy advises the importance of a mix of traditional and digital marketing. Include traditional print and advertising, the power of word of mouth along with emails, texts, posts, hashtags and tweets. The opportunities are endless but it will never work without persistence, resilience and planning!

A thought out plan will support your business if growth takes a diversion and doesn’t follow the pattern you desire.

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Follow Portia’s monthly Business Advice only in

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CLEAR WOODS CONSULTANCY DEFINING VISION AND ADDING VALUE TO BUSINESSES

EST 2016

Portia is the managing director of Clear Woods Consultancy you can find her online at:

/ Clear Woods Consultancy

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‘Friends of’ Bashfordsland Wood and Oakfield Glen Saturday 14 May, 10am – 1pm

Stilt Walking Workshops 22, 27, 28 May, 11am – 3pm McNeill Theatre,

Bat Night Friday 27 May, 8pm Carnfunnock Country Park

Meeting at Oakfield Community Centre, Oakfield Drive, Carrickfergus Help conserve and protect this wonderful woodland by taking part in a range of practical tasks.

Larne Stilt walking workshop for ages 10+. Participants will master the art of stilt walking in preparation for taking part in the Larne Alive Summer Parade

Let Ricki Ayre of the NI Bat Group introduce you to some of Northern Ireland’s cutest and fluffiest mammals – BATS!

Latharna Creative Collective Exposition Saturday 14 May, 11am – 4pm Larne Market Yard

Face painting Workshop: Tiger Techniques & Butterfly Basics Sunday 22 May, 1pm Carnfunnock Country Park

A day of creativity brought to you by a new group of professional artists, Latharna Creative Collective.

Carnfunnock Funky Sports Day Sunday 15 May, 2pm – 5pm, Carnfunnock Country Park Take part in our funky sports day for kids of all ages.

Magical Owls Saturday 21 May, 2pm – 5pm Carnfunnock Country Park Join the ‘Owl Man’ Don Scott as he brings his unique owls to Carnfunnock to celebrate Love Parks Week.

North Irish Horse Regimental Association Parade Saturday 21 May Carrickfergus Town Centre North Irish Horse Regimental Association parade and commemoration of the Battle for the Adolf Hitler Line at the cenotaph.

Cross-Community Singing Workshop and Evening Praise Event Saturday 28 May, 3.30pm – 5.30pm

Join us for a special face painting workshop and learn to paint your own little tiger or beautiful butterfly with the expert tuition of our resident face painters, Facetastic.

1st Larne Presbyterian Church Everyone is welcome to a Worship and Singing Workshop faciliated by Graham Maule and Jo Love (colleagues of Rev John Bell) from WILD GOOSE RESOURCES.

Biodiversity Family Fun Day Sunday 22 May, 1pm – 4pm Town Parks,

Pond Dipping Saturday 28 May, 2pm Carnfunnock Country Park

Larne Learn about the natural world through a variety of fun activities.

Join Carnfunnock staff as we delve beneath the surface of our wildlife pond to see what we can find.

National BBQ Week Monday 23 – Sunday 29 May Carnfunnock Country Park

Magic Shows Sunday 29 May 2.15pm, 3.15pm and 4.15pm Carnfunnock Country Park

Parklands Café will have (weather permitting) BBQ themed specials on café menu and also a BBQ on site.

Louie the Entertainer presents a hilarious sideways take on children’s magic that the whole family will enjoy. Free event.

Wild in the Park: Falcons and Friends Monday 30 May, 1pm – 5pm Carnfunnock Country Park Join the Northern Ireland School of Falconry and see majestic birds of prey, in both static and dynamic flying displays.

page 36

Local History

may 2016

Chatterbox

brought to you by old Carrick postcards

Written by Graham walton from old carrickfergus postcards

If you would like more information check out their facebook page/Old-Carrickfergus-Postcards

LEGG MEMORIAL PARK WAS GIFTED TO THE PEOPLE OF CARRICKFERGUS BY CHARLES LEGG, A LOCAL BUSINESS MAN. IT WAS BUILT TO COMMEMORATE THE LIFE OF HIS SON, ALSO CHARLES. HE WAS A 2ND LIEUTENANT SERVING WITH THE ROYAL ENGINEERS AND DIED AS THE RESULT OF A RIDING ACCIDENT WHILST SERVING IN FRANCE IN 1918. THE PARK IS BUILT ON LAND WHICH HAD BEEN THE SITE OF PAUL RODGERS' SHIPYARD.

As an avid collector of old local postcards and photographs I am always keen to expand my collection. If you have any that you would like to share, sell or dated and valued I can be contacted on 07786557815.

CARRICKFERGUS SWIMMING POND WAS JUST BEHIND LEGG PARK - YOU CAN JUST SEE THE CHANGING HUT IN THE FIRST POSTCARD. IT WAS BUILT DURING THE FIRST WORLD WAR TO SAVE THE BLUSHES OF THE LADIES OF THE TOWN. SOLDIERS GARRISONED IN THE TOWN DURING AT THE START OF THE WAR WERE OFTEN SEEN STRIPPING OFF IN A CORNER OF THE HARBOUR TO GO FOR A SWIM. IT WAS REFURBISHED DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND WAS IN USE IN THE 1950'S.

THIS IS A POSTCARD OF THE ORIGINAL MEMORIAL IN LEGG PARK - NOW JUST A PLINTH WITH THE STATUE MISSING. THE STATUE IS OF PETER PAN, THE BOY WHO NEVER GREW UP. THE LEGGS WOULD REMEMBER CHARLES AS FOREVER YOUNG.

DURING WW II THE VAULTS IN THE CASTLE WERE EQUIPPED TO BE USED AS PUBLIC AIR RAID SHELTERS. IF YOU LOOK CLOSELY AT THE PHOTOGRAPH YOU CAN SEE THE BLAST PROOF ENTRANCES THAT WERE BUILT AROUND THE DOORWAYS TO PROTECT THEM.

IN 1896 A LIFEBOAT OF THE LATEST DESIGN WAS PRESENTED TO CARRICKFERGUS BY A MR DRYBURGH OF LONDON (I HAVE NO IDEA OF HIS CONNECTION WITH THE TOWN). ON THE 26TH OF SEPTEMBER THE BOAT WAS CHRISTENED ZAIDA BY MRS KIRK OF THORNFIELD HOUSE. IN NOVEMBER OF THE SAME YEAR A LOCAL BRANCH OF THE RLNI WAS FORMED AND THE BOATHOUSE, OUTSIDE THE EAST PIER, WAS FORMALLY OPENED. THIS PHOTOGRAPH POSSIBLY SHOWS THE OPENING DAY OF THE BOATHOUSE. THE LIFEBOAT WAS TAKEN OUT OF SERVICE IN 1913 AND FOR REASONS UNKNOWN WAS NOT REPLACED. THE BOATHOUSE SURVIVED UNTIL THE 1950'S.

THIS IS A FRENCH PRESS PHOTOGRAPH WITH THE TITLE " THE KINGS OWN YORKSHIRE LIGHT INFANTRY RESUPPLYING CARRICKFERGUS CASTLE." IT WAS TAKEN IN APRIL 1914 AND THE MEN OF THE KOYLI HAD BEEN GARRISONED HERE BECAUSE OF THE "IRISH CRISIS." QUESTIONS HAD BEEN ASKED IN WESTMINSTER AS TO WHY THERE WERE ONLY 4 MEN GUARDING THE CASTLE WHEN THERE WAS UP TO 85 TONS OF ARMS AND AMMUNITION BEING STORED THERE. THE RESPONSE WAS TO SEND A DETACHMENT OF 30 MEN OF THE KOYLI TO GUARD IT. THIS WOULD EVENTUALLY BE INCREASED TO 130 MEN BY THE OUT BREAK OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR.

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may 2016

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The countdown begins for the 2016 ballymena show!

Plans are very much underway for this year’s Ballymena Show being held on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th May 2016 and the official launch of the show and press reception was held in Eaton Park Rugby Club last week.

Chairperson, Robert Dick welcomed all to the reception with a particular thanks to all the sponsors of the event and the many volunteers who give of their time freely to ensure the show continues to be a success.

Robert also said he was delighted that Bank of Ireland UK continue as the Premium Sponsor of the Show and looked forward to building on the successful relationship between the two parties.

Speaking at the launch, William Thompson, Head of Agriculture, Bank of Ireland UK commented, “Ballymena Show is always a highly anticipated event and the showground’s provide the ideal venue for visitors to meet the diverse range of Agri businesses from the local area. Ballymena Show continues to grow in popularity due to the number of local artisan food and Agri-engineering companies in attendance, not to mention the quality livestock on display. Bank of Ireland UK is proud to be supporting the show again this year as part of our continued commitment to developing and growing Northern Ireland’s agriculture and rural communities. Bank of Ireland UK will be hosting a breakfast event to officially open the show on Friday 27th May. This forms part of the Bank’s Enterprise Week which starts on 13th May. We invite and encourage all local businesses to get involved on social media: #LetsConnectNI”.

Within the livestock sections of the Show it remains very much business as usual while building on the success of the last number of years. This year sees the introduction of two new sheep breeds; the Suffolk Cheviot and Blue Texel, and it is hoped that these will add to what was a very successful sheep showing in 2015. Within the cattle section we are delighted that the NI Simmental Society has agreed to hold their Heifer Championships this year at the show with additional prize money on offer. The horse section are moving the Working Hunter Pony section to the Friday evening, commencing at 5pm in order to encourage greater participation and also bring an additional event to the Friday evening activities. All schedules are now in circulation and this year for the first time we can accept online applications; all in all it is hoped that all will remain competitive but friendly and will be well supported.

Within the Home Industries Section as always we welcome the entries from the local schools, WI and nursing homes alongside all our other competitors. The County Antrim Chocolate Cake Competition will continue for a second year and for the first time we will see the introduction of the County stuff cushion competition.

Each winner from these two classes from Ballymena, Ballymoney and Antrim show will go forward to the final where the overall winners will be chosen.

As in previous years, Ballymena Show fully appreciates the importance of our young people within the agricultural sector who are very much the future of the show and continues to work alongside the three local YFC’s – Lisnamurrican, Glarryford and Ahoghill. The County competitions will be held on the Friday event with inter club Tug-o-War completion and Slippery Football Knockout Competitions being held on the Saturday. These always encourage a great competitive spirit among all local clubs with the emphasis very much on fun and getting wet!

The organising committee are very much interested in attracting more visitors to the show and entertainment for all the family is always at the forefront. Robert was delighted to announce that Shauna McStravock and friends will again be providing the entertainment. Gates will open to the public at 4pm on the Friday when the fun dog show will continue with categories for all dogs to enter including fancy dress and advice will also be available on animal health care and nutrition. On the Friday evening there will also be a superhero treasure hunt for the children and vintage tractors will be on display. Saturday will continue with craft demonstration, exhibits, children’s entertainment, amusements and a wide variety of trade stands.

Ballymena Show is being held at Ballymena Showgrounds on Friday 27th May from 4pm and Saturday 28th May from 9am – for more information and a timetable of events check us out online at www.ballymenashow. co.uk or join us on facebook. Alternatively you can contact the show office by email on secretary@ballymenashow.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you then and thank you for your continued support!

VIP GUESTS AND MID AND EAST COUNCILORS WITH BALLYMENA SHOW 2016 COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT THE EATON PARK LAUNCH.

THE YOUNG FARMERS CLUB MEMBERS READY TO LAUNCH THEIR TUG-O-WAR TEAM EVENT FOR THE BALLYMENA 2016 SHOW.

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may 2016

Days on Your Doorstep!

Chatterbox

THERE’S A WHOLE WORLD TO EXPLORE, AND IT STARTS JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR!

Feature of the month: Carnfunnock Country Park The presence of antiquities such as shell middens and Droagh motte show that there has been human habitation within this area going back hundreds of years. However it was not until 1823 that the Agnew family obtained the lease to this fertile land from the Marquis of Donegal and began farming in the area.

The construction of the Coast Road (1832-1842) allowed two gentleman’s residences to be built. One house was called ‘Cairncastle Lodge’ (now known as Carnfunnock) and the other was named ‘Seaview’ (now known as Cairndhu). By 1865 Mr. James Agnew had fallen into financial difficulties and sold Cairncastle Lodge to the Chaine family.

The Chaines lived here for over 70 years and were successful linen manufacturers who were responsible for the development of Larne Harbour.

In 1878 ‘Seaview’ was sold to Mr. Stewart-Clark, a wealthy Scottish textile industrialist, who had married a local girl, Miss Annie Smiley and required an Irish residence. The Stewart-Clarks lived both here and in Scotland.

Their daughter, Miss Edith Clark married Sir Thomas Dixon in 1906 and the Dixon family took ownership of Seaview in 1918.

When Cairncastle Lodge’s last owner, Mr. William Chaine, died in 1937 leaving no children, the land was sold and merged with Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon’s property. By that time Cairncastle Lodge was in poor condition and had to be demolished. The land was separated again in 1947 when the Dixon family generously donated Cairndhu to the Ministry of Health and Local Government. It opened as a hospital in 1950 and provided care for nearly 35 years. It is now in

private ownership with a planning application submitted to turn the property into luxury apartments.

At the same time, the Dixons held onto the Carnfunnock land and built a chalet bungalow where Cairncastle Lodge once stood.

This gave them somewhere to stay whenever they visited the area.

In 1957 Larne Borough Council purchased the 152 hectares of Carnfunnock land from Lady Dixon. This included the walled garden, chalet (which became the former Larne Lions Club Holiday Home) and original estate features including the ice house and lime kilns.

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Over the years the Council has developed this land with unique attractions, thanks to the assistance of various funding bodies and it was officially opened as a country park by HRH the Duchess of Kent in July 1990.

Now Carnfunnock boasts a wide selection of activities from golfing, camping, and it’s notorious maze which no visit to carnfunnock would be complete without out. Steeped in history and fun carnfunnock is a great day out for the whole family.

page 39

may 2016

JenniMac Gifts & Crafts 55b Main Street Larne BT40 1JE 075 9067 1289 www.jennimac.net jen@jennimac.net

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page 40

Northend united youth football club news Northend United Youth FC has been boosted by a substantial sponsorship deal with JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd. JBE Mechanical Electrical, one of this country’s leading mechanical and electrical services groups, has come in as main sponsor of Northend United Youth Football Club’s Football Development Centre.

The Club, formed in Ballymena during 2003, is a highly successful cross community youth football club and was recently only the second ever club in Northern Ireland to have been awarded with the highly prestigious Irish FA Club Excellence Mark 2 Star Award.

The Chairman of Northend United, Johnny Sayers was thrilled with the addition of a new sponsor, “It is great that JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd have come on board with us, as a volunteer organisation we try our utmost to give young people in Ballymena and further afield, the best opportunity to participate and develop in grassroots and youth football.

We feel that partners like JBE Mechanical Electrical can only help maximise the work we do in the local community.

We would especially like to thank Conor and Joanne Croskery of JBE

Youth Football gets boost from new sponsor JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd

Mechanical Electrical for their help in the process. This is a great boost,” he added.

John Devlin, Football Development Officer at Northend United Youth also welcomed the new sponsorship, “The Club is delighted that JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd has invested in grassroots football in Ballymena and will be the named partner of our Football Development Centre.”

John Blair, Managing Director of JBE Mechanical Electrical said, “Supporting and investing in grassroots sport is immensely important to JBE Mechanical Electrical. We are very proud of this grassroots sponsorship with Northend United and are delighted to help them expand the outstanding work they do. We wish the highly progressive Club the best of luck.”

U17s sign off with draw The U17s finished off their season on Saturday with a 2-2 draw with Kilkeel based Valley Rangers.

Manager Stephen White used the opportunity to give all the players a good work out and can count themselves unlucky not to take all the points. Jack Anderson and Jamie Stevenson scored the goals for the Hurst with Dee Leetch and Mark Cochrane in top form in this match.

Local Sport

Elsewhere in the Lisburn league, Joe Kidd’s U11s lost their match by the odd goal in five to local neighbours Ballymena United.

Jay McKeown was the two goal marksman for Northend.

All the teams in the North West and Coleraine District league were in action this week, with both of the U10 teams in action Portrush and Limavady Colts respectively, while the U9s continued their rich vein of form against Maiden City.

JBE FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE Northend United’s JBE Football Development Centre continues on Wednesday 4th May from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at St Louis 3G. The JBE Football Development Centre is open to all boys and girls, 2009 to 2012 inclusive and is under the direction of Northend’s Uefa B and Coerver certified Head Coach, John Devlin.

GIRLS’ PLAYER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE Building on the strength of the number of girls attending our JBE Football Development Football Centre and our younger 7-a-side teams, the Club is now continuing its All Girls Player Development Centre for girls born between 2009 and 2012 and this continues on

The backbone of the success of Sports Bond over the years has been the steadfast work of the agents who collect from the members each week. There are many different types of agents, let’s look at some of them.

canvassing they can maintain a high level of membership and earn excellent commission.

Over the years we have had agents in more unusual situations such as flower shops, senior citizen clubs, sports clubs and chip shops.

Retail Shops - Many small corner shops have been the starting point of call for many Sports Bond members, however over the years this sector has been in decline.

Sports Bond supports their agents with promotional literature, canvassing and telesales. If you want to be an agent we would love to hear from you. Take the first step by ringing 07831 803970 or 2564 1886 (Tuesdays).

Agents earn valuable commission, a £1000 Jackpot winner will net his agent £100 bonus commission. Recently a Sports Bond agent, Janice Crawford, abseiled down the Tower Block at Belfast City Hospital to raise funds for a cancer charity, agents are great people and we often have agent functions.

Workplace Agents – Sports Bond have over the years many agents in the workplace, in Michelin, JTI Gallahers etc. Currently one of our leading agents works in a catering establishment.

Friends and Family Agents – These are invaluable, most are small under 20 members who collect amongst their friends and family.

Door to Door Agents – These are the elite of the agents and some have very large agencies of over 100 members. With

Chatterbox

whats going on in our sports teams

WANTED: SPORTS BOND AGENTS

Bars – There has been much banter in this sector especially when a patron of the bar wins on Sports Bond.

may 2016

Don’t delay Join today – 07831 803970

Wednesday 4h May from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at St Louis Sports Hall.

For more information, or to reserve your child a place on the course, please call John Devlin on 07919 056834. Application forms can also be printed off the Northend website www.northendunitedyouthfc.co.uk AWARDS NIGHTS With the season drawing to a close, an important date for your diary is the end-of-season Northend United Youth FC Awards Nights. The Junior Awards Night for the U8s,

Hutchinson Engineering Sponsors Ballymena RFC Youth Section BALLYMENA RFC Junior Teams have received a welcome boost from today’s sponsorship announcement from Kilrea based firm, Hutchinson Engineering.

The junior teams which include the winners of the Ulster Carpets U16 League Section 2 are delighted with the continued support from Northern Ireland’s leading engineering firm, Hutchinson Engineering; that has signed a sponsorship deal for another three years.

Ballymena Rugby Football Club Chairman, Derek Montgomery said: “I’m delighted that Hutchinson Engineering is supporting our local rugby community. The sponsorship funds will be used exclusively to benefit the Ballymena Youth Section and will go towards their new kit and travel costs. Their ongoing support of the Youth Section is essential and we are only too happy to have them on board

U9s, U10s and U11s will be held on Friday 27th May at the Michelin Club.

The Senior Awards Night for the U12s, U13s, U14s, U15s, U16s and U17s will also be held at the Michelin Club on Thursday 26th May. These nights are a highlight in the Northend social calendar and if last years Awards nights are anything to go by, well over 500 parents and friends attended the events.

L to R: Derek Montgomery, Chairman of Ballymena RFC, Mark Hutchinson, MD of Hutchinson Group, Don Pattison, Youth Convener. Front L to R Jordan Pattison and Tyson McKeown, Captain and Vice Captain of Ballymena RFC’s U16. for another three years.”

Managing Director, Mark Hutchinson commented: “We are keen rugby fans and what better way to support grassroots sport by giving to this fantastic and ambitious youth rugby section. It’s very important to us to support the local community and this is a fantastic opportunity to do so.”

This sponsorship will allow the Ballymena Rugby Club and their Youth Convener, Don Pattison, to nurture the young talent and ensure that all their rugby needs are met.

Mark Hutchinson concluded: “We have established a great relationship with Ballymena Rugby Football Club and I look forward to watching the Youth Section throughout the next few years and perhaps get a glimpse of some of the rugby stars of the future.”

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may 2016

Carrick Rangers FC First Team NEWS APRIL 2016 09/04/2016 Away Fixture Warrenpoint 1-1 Carrick Rangers Carrick started brightly in the basement battle as when Miguel Chines’ free kick was blocked by the wall, the ball fell to Kyle Cherry but his shot couldn’t trouble goalkeeper Jonathan Parr.

The hosts registered their first real chance of the afternoon soon after as the ball dropped to Conor McDonald on the edge of the box and he struck a venomous volley which smashed off the crossbar much to the relief of Brian Neeson in the Carrick goals.

Warrenpoint were then reduced to 10 men on the 57th minute. Mark Clarke’s horrible late tackle on Andrew Doyle gave referee Keith Kennedy no choice but to give the midfielder his second yellow card of the game and send him off.

Then on the hour mark the ‘Gers finally opened the scoring. Aaron Harmon’s low cross was helped on

by Aaron Smyth to Salley who poked the ball into the far corner of the net to give his side the lead.

However Carrick’s plans were dealt a blow only a minute later as Aaron Smyth received his second yellow card of the game for a foul on Tiernan Mulvenna, with both sides now competing a man short.

With 10 minutes of the game remaining, Warrenpoint got a penalty. McDonald was brought down by McCloskey in the box with Keith Kennedy not hesitating to point to the spot. Stephen Murray stepped up to send Neeson the wrong way with a composed strike which brought his side level.

Carrick sat back in the final exchanges as Warrenpoint had most of the possession but failed to create any clear cut chances leaving the full time score at a goal apiece.

16/04/2016 Away Fixture Carrick Rangers 0-2 Ballymena Utd It was the Sky Blues who had the first opportunity of the afternoon as William Faulkner fired narrowly over after Andrew Doyle failed to clear.

Attacking midfielder David Cushley then had two consecutive chances to open the scoring with his initial

double for shiels at cookstown 100!

Derek Sheils was in blistering form during the KDM Hire Cookstown 100 road races, blasting his way to a faultless superbike double in the open race. The Dubliner aboard the Cookstown B.E. Racing shot into an immediate lead chased by Derek McGee and Mid Antrim hero Malachi Mitchell Thomas making his Cookstown debut.

Riding the NW Racing BMW, McGee clung on for several laps, but Sheils

soon opened up a gap, finally taking the chequered flag five seconds clear of the Mullingar rider with MitchellThomas on the second Cookstown machine in third place.

When it came to the Cookstown 100 feature race Sheils dominated the action from start to finish surging into the lead with McGee and Mitchell-Thomas in Hot Pursuit. However, Sheils cleared into the distance, Leaving McGee

effort being blocked before his rebound effort was fired wide.

The ‘Gers registered their first chance of the contest soon after as Aaron Traynor turned with the ball just outside of the box but his shot was of little trouble to ‘keeper Alan Blayney.

Only moments later Ballymena opened the scoring: Cushley’s seemingly harmless free kick appeared to evade everyone in the Carrick box to nestle in the bottom corner.

David Jeffrey’s side wrapped up the three points on the 79th minute however: Faulkner raced through on goal and despite his initial effort being saved by Neeson, the ball rebounded to him and he showed selflessness to pass to teammate Michael Ruddy who fired the ball in to secure his side’s victory in a very dissapointing display for the Gers.

23/04/2016 Away Fixture Dungannon 1-3 Carrick Rangers The home side opened the scoring in the 6th minute, as former ‘Gers

player Jarlath O’Rourke pulled the ball back for Cormac Burke who took a touch before firing low to the near post to open the scoring.

On the 25th minute the away side finally found their equaliser as Coleman spilled Aaron Harmon’s cross into the path of Adam Salley who eventually poked the ball home to level.

Carrick kept up their attacking play as they scored again on the 37th minute. Conor McCloskey’s left wing cross found Harmon at the back post whose header trickled into the net despite the best efforts of both Coleman and Chris Hegarty, meaning the ‘Gers held a narrow 2-1 lead at the break.

Knowing how close they had just came to losing their lead, the Taylor’s Avenue side scored the vital third goal they were seeking.

Cherry latched onto Aaron Traynor’s

Chatterbox

Miguel Chines slots home a penalty to give Carrick Rangers a 3-1 lead away at Dungannon. throw in but as he raced into the box he was felled by Douglas Wilson with referee Stephen Gregg not hesitating to point to the spot.

Chines stepped up to send Coleman the wrong way to the delight of the travelling support.

Therelegation battle will go to the final game of the season despite a brilliant 3-1 win for the Gers.

William Dunlop was the star of the Supersport races at the Cookstown 100

and Thomas to squabble over the runner-up spot which eventually went to Thomas, who took advantage of a mistake by McGee, who recovered to finish ahead of Dan Kneen.

William Dunlop was the star in the supersport class, taking the CD-IC Yamaha to a terrific double. In the invitation race the Ballymoney man had to work hard as it was Derek McGee who got the holeshot and held the advantage for the opening laps with Mitchell-Thomas and Dan Kneen breathing down his neck. But Dunlop in a polished performance soon took control beating kneen by three seconds as McGee completed the rostrum.

In the championship race McGee was first away from the start line,

DOUBLE SUPERBIKE WINNER DEREK SHEILS IN ACTION AT COOKSTOWN 100

holding onto the lead in the early stages, but Dunlop had the bit between his teeth, caught and passed McGee, easing away to win by three seconds with Kneen third.

The supertwing race saw MitchellThomas take on team-mate Sheils in a wheel-to-wheel confrontation, the duo covered by the Droverbial Blanket until Shiels made a slip, gifting the runner up place to James Cowton, just ahead of Czech Republic rider Michael Dokoupil.

James Chawke won the Junior support race from Scott Miller and Paul Hurley and in the senior support it was John Horgan who claimed the victory beating Mike Weldon and Mike Norbury.

Current champion Barry Davidson had no opposition in the junior classic race, steaming away to a massive 20 seconds win over George Stinson and Sam Kinkade. The senior classic win went to Richard Ford. Just 0.6 seconds clear of Jamie O’Brien followed in third place

by Barry Davidson, the first 500cc machine to finish.

Paul Jordan won the 125/Moto3 Race from Adam McLean with Sam Wilson too close for comfort in third, while the lightweight 400/450cc race win went to Seamus Elliot chased home by Darryl Tweed and Michal Dokoupil.

page 42

may 2016

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