Issue 68 - Belfast BT4 • BT5 • BT16
Belfast Welcome Centre marks 10 years Ten years since its doors were first opened, and servicing almost six million visitor enquiries over the period, Belfast’s Welcome Centre is celebrating a milestone anniversary. The city’s flagship visitor information office, operated by Visit Belfast, opened to the public and tourists just before Christmas in 2013. Over the past decade, more than 2.3 visitors have crossed the doors of the centre on Donegall Square North, with Visit Belfast travel advisors fielding a total of 5,906,884 queries. Unveiled following a £1.82 million investment, the facility proves a “one stop shop” to visitors and residents alike with information accompanied by the ability to book events, shows or accommodation, and a gift shop. Over the last decade L-R David Agnew, Bobby’s Foods; Colin Maxwell, nijobfinder; Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive, Retail NI and Liam O’Connor, Sales and Marketing Director, Biopax Limited.
Retail NI Unveils Second Annual Supplier Showcase Event Celebrating Local Producers and Manufacturers
Retail NI, the esteemed representative of the independent retail and wholesale sector in Northern Ireland, is delighted to announce the return of its Supplier Showcase event. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s showcase promises to be bigger and more impactful. Supported by key partners Biopax Limited and Bobby’s Foods, the event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 27 February 2024, from 3-6 pm at Titanic Belfast. The event is an
opportunity for players in the retail and wholesale sectors to network with suppliers and promote and celebrate the huge contribution local producers and manufacturers make to the wider economy. Distinguished speakers will impart invaluable perspectives on the industry, shedding light
on current challenges and opportunities. Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI and the driving force behind orchestrating the event, said: “Our Supplier Showcase is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. We’re proud to have the support of Biopax Limited — the newest and most progressive
green packaging company in Europe — and Bobby’s Foods, key partners who share our commitment to promoting and celebrating the remarkable contributions of local producers and manufacturers in Northern Ireland.”
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since the centre was opened in Donegall Square North, it has helped welcome 870 cruise ships to the city, along with 1,652,364 cruise visitors, as well as 203,985 delegates attending 631 conferences. Meanwhile, the value of tickets sold at the Welcome Centre has surpassed £5.5 million. Earlier this year, Visit Belfast Welcome Centre was named ‘Northern Ireland’s Visitor Information Centre of the Year’ at the 30th Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Awards, an achievement it has celebrated for almost two decades.
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Issue 68 - Support Local
Issue 68 - Support Local
VISION FOR BELFAST’S WATERFRONT LAUNCHED
Aim to make Belfast one of the world’s great waterfront cities A new vision launched recently sets out to make Belfast one of the world’s great waterfront cities. The Belfast Waterfront Promenade provides a framework to ensure that future regeneration of the city’s waterfront, one of the largest in Europe, follows an agreed set of design principles. The new approach was developed by the Belfast Waterfront Task Group, made up of representatives from charity Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast City Council, Belfast Harbour, Titanic Quarter Limited, Tourism NI and the Departments for Communities, Infrastructure, the Economy and of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs. Stretching from Sailortown to Ormeau Park, over half of the 10,000m waterfront remains available for development. Those behind the Promenade plan believe this is a generational opportunity to reshape Belfast’s relationship with its waterfront and maximise the area’s potential to provide economic and social benefits for all of Northern Ireland. Kerrie Sweeney, CEO of Maritime Belfast Trust, said: “Over the past 30 years Belfast has rediscovered its waterfront with projects such as the Lagan Weir, ICC Belfast, Odyssey Arena, Titanic Quarter and City
Quays. “Such is its scale, however, over half of the city’s waterfront area remains to be regenerated. We’re ready for the next stage, but this generational opportunity will only realise its full potential if everyone adopts a joined-up approach. “The Promenade framework, backed by all the key groups involved in Belfast’s waterfront, is the starting point for the next 30 years of development. It won’t happen overnight, but there’s no reason why Belfast can’t be a great people-centric waterfront city on par with locations such as Copenhagen, Stockholm or Seattle.” The framework is based around nine distinctive character areas including Sailortown, ‘Harbour Park’ and ‘Harbour Wharf’ near Titanic Belfast, ‘Gateways’ centred around the Lagan Weir and ‘Up River’ which
stretches to Ormeau Park. It contains practical design guidance and a toolkit of development options to help balance community, nature, and development. There are plans for new pedestrian and cycle bridges across the Victoria Channel, as well as new public spaces, playgrounds, heritage trails, floating boardwalks, businesses and wetlands, moorings and cantilevered decking. By adopting an integrated approach, the Waterfront Promenade aims to improve the area’s links to the rest of the city, enrich marine habitats and provide a focal point for leisure, employment, cycling, walking and tourism. Overall, the vision is to create a stand-out international destination that improves quality of life for residents and showcases Northern Ireland to investors and visitors alike.
The detail of the framework was created by Danish firm Schulze+Grassov, specialists in urban design. The firm has also worked on projects such as Berlin’s Potsdamer Platz and London’s Design District in Greenwich. The Belfast Waterfront Task Group is working towards establishing the Waterfront Promenade as a Local Policy Area so that its design guidelines are adopted by planning authorities. Plans are also underway to create a pilot Waterfront Design Panel with expert voices to peer review proposals along the Promenade against guidelines and surrounding context. Full details of the plan are available at maritimebelfast. com where the public are also invited to share their views on how Belfast’s waterfront should be developed.
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Issue 68 - Support Local
Issue 68 - Support Local
Top chefs join The Gourmet Boys for recipe calendar in aid of NSPCC Northern Ireland
Twelve top Northern Ireland chefs have teamed up with fanatical foodies and digital creators, The Gourmet Boys, to create a 2024 recipe calendar in aid of NSPCC Northern Ireland. Sponsored by Click Energy, the calendar features delicious recipes from well-known kitchen maestros: Paula McIntyre and Suzi Lee, Nathan Anthony (Bored of Lunch), Ian Hunter (Mourne Seafood Bar), Gemma Austin (A Peculiar Tea), Stephen Jeffers (Forestside Cookery School), Ben Arnold (Great British Menu), Paul Cunningham (Mourne Larder), Jonny Stevenson (Urban Scullery), Artur Fron (2Taps Wine Bar), James Devine (MoGhrá) and Kristen Nugent (Springboard FutureChef of the Year 2023). The Gourmet Boys & Friends 2024 Calendar is not only a celebration of local food, but also a way to help keep children safe from abuse and neglect as all proceeds will go to NSPCC Northern Ireland. Each month features a delicious recipe, along with a stunning photo that will make your mouth water. To buy The Gourmet Boys & Friends 2024 Calendar, click on the link on www.gourmetboys. com Calendars cost £8, plus P&P. Speaking about the
project, Brian & Mark of The Gourmet Boys said: “We were honoured to have been involved in the 2024 Northern Ireland Celebrity Chef calendar in aid of NSPCC NI. “It’s been an absolute pleasure to have had the opportunity to contact these talented chefs, who all said ‘yes’ immediately, and were thrilled to contribute a delicious recipe to feature each month. “We are delighted with the final calendar, and we’re sure that it will be a great addition to any kitchen, so please buy one for all your friends and family to help support this terrific charity.” Stefani Mearns, NSPCC Northern Ireland Supporter Fundraising Manager said: “We are so grateful to The Gourmet Boys for bringing together such a fantastic array of local talent in support of NSPCC NI, and we’d also like to express our thanks to Click Energy for their sponsorship. “All the money raised from calendar sales will go to NSPCC NI to help ensure we can be there for children when they need us most.” Andy Porter, Managing
The Gourmet Boys Brian and Mark with NSPCC Northern Ireland Fundraising Executive Emily Harrow.
Director at Click Energy, said: “We are proud to be a part of this project and to work with such talented local chefs. “We believe in supporting our local communities not only through their electricity supply, but also by making a positive impact through brilliant initiatives such as this calendar.
“We know from previous fundraisers how extremely generous our customers are and we want to thank everyone in advance for their support to this very deserving cause.” *To purchase a calendar, go to, www.gourmetboys. com and click on the link. Calendars cost £8 each, plus P&P. All proceeds to NSPCC Northern Ireland.
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Eastside Advertiser
Mary Peters Trust funding initiative helps Castlereagh athlete Erin progress City of Lisburn AC member Erin Fisher is one of 15 young sports people, who have each benefitted from a special bursary from the Mary Peters Trust’s newest funding programme, the ‘David Magill Coaching Awards’. Set up by the Trust and the family of David Magill, who passed away in November
2021 aged 86, the initiative aims to help young athletes take up coaching courses
relevant to their chosen sport. David’s widow Joan, daughters Joanne and
Denise and the wider family established the programme as a tribute to a muchloved husband, dad and grandfather. During his lifetime David had made a huge contribution and impact within the worlds of sport, business, local community, and volunteering. David was an all-round sports person, excelling in polevaulting and winning the Irish Youth Championship in 1954. Like David, Castlereagh girl Erin is a pole-vaulter and competes in other track and field events, in particular long jump. The 22-year-old Queen’s University medical student has been involved in athletics since she was eight and first took up pole-vaulting at the age of 12. Erin has competed for Northern Ireland in both the long jump and pole-vaulting and is already supporting
younger athletes having completed assistant coach programmes. Erin completed an assistant coach course in 2020 and her David Magill bursary will enable her to take up the ‘full’ athletics coaching course covering more in-depth technical aspects allowing her to coach several athletics disciplines and help young rising athletes to further develop their skills and technique. Taking place at the Mary Peters Track in January 2024 with further additional elements and an assessment in March Erin hopes to be fully qualified by the end of March. Erin says, “This course is the next step up from the assistant course and similarly encompasses a wide range of field athletics events but has more technical content as well as well as more
extensive detail on how to coach and plan training sessions. Once qualified, I’ll be a much more experienced coach and can lead sessions without supervision. Hopefully it will unlock lots of new sporting opportunities for me.” Joan Magill and her daughter Joanne joined Lady Mary Peters at a special presentation event at Newforge Sports Complex in Belfast to welcome and celebrate the David Magill Coaching Award winners. Paying tribute to Joan, Joanne and Denise Magill, Lady Mary Peters said: “At the Mary Peters Trust we are constantly seeking new approaches and different initiatives to help local athletes strive to compete with the best in the world. David and Joan Magill have been superb supporters of the Trust and
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Limited, said: “Biopax Limited is honoured to be a key partner for Retail NI’s Supplier Showcase. This event provides an invaluable platform for local businesses to showcase their products and services,
Mr. Roberts is encouraging industry members to mark their calendars for this essential event. Liam O’Connor, Sales and Marketing Director, Biopax
Pictured (l-r) are Lady Mary Peters, Joanne Magill, Erin Fisher and Joan Magill.
its ongoing work over the years. We are very much indebted to the Magill family and wholeheartedly thank them for their financial endowment and their work in establishing these new coaching awards. “It has been wonderful to meet our cohort of 15 athletes drawn from disability sport, badminton,
athletics, gymnastics and netball and we wish them all well as they embark on their various coaching courses. We look forward to hearing how their new qualifications help them develop in their specific sports and how as new coaches they can support athletes of the future to fast-track towards success.”
and we are thrilled to contribute to the growth and success of the Northern Ireland business community.” Additionally, John Lucas from Bobby’s Foods expressed their anticipation: “Bobby’s Foods is proud to stand alongside Retail NI in supporting the Supplier Showcase. We believe in the strength of local businesses, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the innovation and quality that our community brings to the retail and wholesale sectors.”
This year’s showcase will feature over 50 exhibits, allowing attendees to explore a diverse range of products and services from local suppliers. Glyn Roberts added: “We want everyone to save the date for this exceptional event that celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of our local business community. It’s an opportunity to connect, discover, and support the incredible talent that drives our economy.” More details about the event will be released in the coming weeks.
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Issue 68 - Support Local
Eastside Advertiser
GRAND PLANS FOR THE STRAND, OUR EAST BELFAST GEM
An exciting £6.5 million project to preserve Northern Ireland’s only operational Art Deco picture house gets underway early next year and will secure The Strand’s future for the community. The Strand will reopen mid-2025 in time for their 90th birthday, boasting: • World-class performance space in their former balcony seating 240 with back-stage facilities • Disability access throughout • Restored front stalls as a unique theatre and screening space for 160 • High-end screening room for 60 • Two creative learning studios • An interactive
exhibition celebrating Northern Ireland’s picture house past • Brand new licensed café The refurb will result in an exciting year-round programme including: • Quality live theatre, music and comedy • Attracting touring productions and festivals • Screening the latest blockbusters plus classic, cultural and educational films with top quality projection and sound • Performing and visual
arts classes • Creative industries skills development workshops • Hire space for community and charity groups History Dating back to 1935, the Strand was originally a single screen cinema. Its maritime design was influenced by its proximity to the Harland & Wolff shipyard. The cinema thrived for decades, and became established
as an east Belfast landmark. In the 1980s, the building’s interior was subdivided to meet public demand for more film choice. In 2013, the Strand Arts Centre was established to prevent the closure of the building. The charity repurposed the building as a thriving arts centre. Be part of it You can contribute to the refurbishment through the ‘Name a Seat’ campaign, by having
an inscribed plaque on their new seats for years to come. If you have memories of The Strand,
or picture houses past, you can get in touch by emailing rosie@strandart scentre.com
Jacksons of Saintfield – find something fabulous this New Year!
Looking for something special - a precious gift or simply something fabulous for your home or Garden? Jackson’s of Saintfield is a long-established, family-run department store located at 38-54 Main Street, Saintfield. They stock a variety of garden furniture, health foods, cookware, fashion items, and more. They are part of the Home Hardware group and offer a wide range of products including housewares, D.I.Y. materials, and ironmongery. In their homeware department you will find beautiful wall art, sparkling décor ideas, elegant cookware, the latest Ninja air fryers or coffee makers! Some of the brands they stock include Stellar, Judge, Belleek Living, Galway
Glassware, Horwood, Le Creuset, and Nespresso. This month there is a massive garden furniture sale with six seater firepit sets from £999, Bistro sets from £199. Call in today to pick up early season deals not to be missed! Key cutting services are also provided for various types of keys including household mortice keys, household cylinder keys, security keys (dimple and laser cut keys), patio door keys, and office keys. The store is open from Monday to Saturday between 09:00 and closing time 17:45. They have six departments located across
four locations in the heart of Saintfield. You can access any of their products via the
website jacksonsofsaintfield. com or through the Saintfield or their Moira store!
Issue 68 - Support Local
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The Barn Owl: Ireland’s Banshee?
Many folklorists agree that one of Ireland’s most iconic birds was the origin of the myth and legend of the Banshee, the terrifying female fairy believed to foretell death.
It’s easy to imagine how this might have happened centuries ago in rural areas, where nights would be very dark, and when you heard a loud shriek emanate from woodland or a ruined building, enough to make the hair on your head stand on end, followed by the image of a silent, white ghost-like creature fly past, perhaps near head-height, you just might think you’ve had an encounter with something other-worldly, something deadly. Of course, Barn Owls are not other-worldly, and only deadly to mice and
shrews, their favoured prey, which they hunt at dusk and night. Their eyesight is no better than ours, but their hearing is extraordinarily acute. Their face ‘mask’ acts as a kind of ‘sound receiver’ and their ears are located in different positions on either side of their head, all the better to pinpoint the source of a rustle or squeak in grass or undergrowth. And they fly silently because of the structure of their feathers and wings, so their prey can’t hear them. Sadly, this animal with almost magical
natural adaptations has been in severe decline, particularly in Northern Ireland, where there are almost certainly less than 30 breeding pairs. As with so many other wild creatures, their decline can be put down mainly to loss of habitat, particularly rough grassland and hedges, but with one important addition, the widespread agricultural use of rodenticides which kill off their staple diet. Ulster Wildlife and partners are working year-round with farmers to not just protect birds
065736 or at katy.bell@ ulsterwildlife.org. That sort of information is so
but create the conditions for expansion of suitable territory. If you spot an owl anywhere, including our two other natives the long-eared and
short-eared owls, or a potential nest site, please report it by contacting Ulster Wildlife’s Senior Conservation Officer, in confidence, on 07816
Applying for a School Place Visiting a school is an important step in choosing a school, and this personal touch reflects Leadhill’s approach in supporting families. As a smaller, nurturing school in the Castlereagh area, working to support parents and children is central to what Leadhill has to offer. Leadhill parents recognise the value of a primary school setting where every adult knows every child. Our school welcomes and supports children from all backgrounds and promotes inclusivity and childcentred approaches. This year, Leadhill are offering a range of flexible opportunities to visit. Arrange for a visit at a time that suits you, throughout December and January. Mrs Millis, the Principal will take the time to tailor your visit to address the things that matter to your family. Visiting Leadhill during the school day gives a fantastic opportunity to experience the nurturing, family atmosphere and meet our fabulous staff and
pupils. For younger children, Toddle Time, Leadhill’s toddler and adult group, meets every Wednesday during termtime from 9 - 11am. This provides another great opportunity to get to know Leadhill and to see how the school can meet the needs of your family.
The Leadhill Website provides a useful window into life in Leadhill. Visit us on www. leadhillps.com. Leadhill would love to welcome you for a visit. Contact the school office on 028 90401101 or email Mrs Millis on amillis370@ c2kni.net to arrange for a suitable date and time.
important to their efforts to locate and help this endangered Irish bird,
particularly one with such a mythical history. JVA
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Eastside Advertiser
With ‘Bags go Free’ HANNON Coach & Sail is perfect for city shopping in Glasgow! Direct Belfast – Glasgow Express now departing from Belfast, Europa Bus Station. An awardwinning service offering hassle-free travel with very generous baggage allowance, HANNON Coach & Sail is ideal for New Year shopping in Glasgow and the perfect antidote to flying and airport stress! Already hugely popular with those in the know, the Belfast – Glasgow Express Coach Service is rated 5-Star on TripAdvisor. A shopper’s paradise, Glasgow is recognised as having the best retail therapy in the UK outside of London. Consistently voted ‘top of the shops’, the city is Scotland’s premier shopping destination. Not just shopping,
Glasgow is also famous for its fantastic nightlife, and great choice of restaurants and bars. Glasgow is the perfect
choice for your next city break away. With a simple flat fare of £44 which includes the cost of the ferry
and a very generous baggage allowance the Belfast – Glasgow Express offers a really attractive, convenient and low-cost
alternative to flying. The service is operated by HANNON Coach and leaves twice a day from Belfast, Europa Bus Station and drops visitors right in the heart of Glasgow’s ‘Style Mile’. The simple flat fare allows passengers to pick and mix dates and times of travel to suit and with no luggage charges it makes a perfect travel option for city shoppers. There are also a great range of hotels just minutes from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. Company director Aodh Hannon says people seem to really love the convenience of the service as we take you right into the heart of the city centre. “People love the fact that it’s so hassle-free compared to flying, no airport transfers and with no extra charge for luggage it is a massive help with keeping the cost of a break down.” said Mr Hannon. The service can be booked online at w w w. h a n n o n c o a c h . com up to 1 hour before departure or by phone using the very friendly telephone booking service. Call 028 9265 0700 (Mon – Fri) or visit w w w. h a n n o n c o a c h . com
Issue 68 - Support Local
NEW YEAR NEW start
Swimming is accessible to all at Templemore!
Templemore Aquatic Sports Club and Templemore Swim School aims to make swimming accessible to the entire local community. Offering affordable lessons to both children and adults is core to the values of the Club, which is part of Templemore Users Trust, a charity that previously ran this facility. Lessons are from the age of 1, following an exciting partnership with Water Babies. The Trust has recently partnered with Waterbabies to offer swim lessons for children aged 1 to 4 years. Children are taught right through to competition swimming should they wish. A Swim Academy (for those that wish to keep fit but has more of a social side) is available from the age of 10. Junior Triathlon available from age 7. Throughout the various lessons and Club schedule, life saving skills are taught. In addition to the swim lessons program, there are
also specific sessions for the community, families, adults and also for budding or experienced triathletes alike with Templemore Triathlon Club. All community swimming takes place at the newly restored and refurbished Templemore ‘Heritage’ pool. You can become a
member of the regular community swim program for ONLY £5 per year and you can swim in the heritage pool for JUST £2 per session! Community Open Swims Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 3pm. Community Length Swimming Tuesday & Thursday 5pm; Ladies
Only Monday & Thursday 9pm and Men Only Wednesday & Friday 9pm. Courtesy of funding from Parkinsons UK, on Wednesday evenings there is now a 1 hour session with a coach and physio for those with Parkinsons Disease. To find out more see www.templemore.org.uk
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EAT HEALTHY THIS WINTER
Winter is upon us and the natural reaction is to stock up on fatty, carbohydrate laden foods. However with colds and flu rife during this season it is important to eat healthy. Here are a few fails safe ways to incorporate healthy eating into mealtimes this winter. Going Inside and Warming Up Compared to every other season of the year, winter is a time for being inside, and especially around the savoury smells of a kitchen in full use. Yes, it is colder outside, and we may need extra calories to stay warm. The reason is: warming up! Nothing is more satisfying on a brisk wintry day than a hearty hot bowl of soup. The idea of your oven compartments and stovetop burners being more active in the winter is an idea in keeping with this focus on inner warmth, and we encourage you to think about the winter as a time to celebrate the warmth of eating. Warming Foods Of course, it’s not only the heat of the oven that feels so good in winter. Warming foods are also a great choice during this
season. In some traditions, like the tradition of Oriental medicine, warming foods include foods that take longer to grow. These foods include most root vegetables (like carrots), and most cruciferous vegetables (like cabbage). Compared with leafy vegetables (like lettuce) that tend to grow much more quickly, these root vegetables and crucifers make excellent winter choices. We don’t need Oriental medicine, however, to tell us about the warming properties of all foods. Those properties are already very familiar to us in the case of some foods like hot peppers (including cayenne and chilli pepper, but even the more commonly used black pepper). More frequent uses of these seasonings can also make good sense during the colder winter months because of their warming properties. Smaller, Dense, and Compacted Foods Just as we tend to go inside and get more compacted in our movements during the
winter, the smaller, denser, and more compacted foods make good choices during this season. In some popular approaches to winter eating, winter is described as the time to store up on heavier, high-calorie foods. Whole grains that include the nutrient dense bran and germ makes the perfect example of a good winter choice. Seeds are another great example of a nutritiously compacted winter food, especially sunflower and sesame seeds, which are considered especially warming in some traditions. Dried beans and lentils that would be used in preparing of a hearty winter soup would also fit into this category of smaller, dense, and compacted foods. The Sociability of Eating Winter is also a perfect
season for getting together with friends and family around a relaxed, wellprepared meal. The sharing of food can be one of the most peaceful and lasting experiences of winter. Particularly if the holiday season brings stress, overload, and more frequent changes in schedule, the reassuring feeling of a genuinely shared meal can help offset other difficulties during this time. It’s a season when the description we put on our website, “Selecting, Preparing, & Enjoying” might hold the key to our mental health as we make our way through this portion of the year. The World’s Healthiest Foods website has more tips on staying healthy this winter. Log on to http:// www.whfoods.com.
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Issue 68 - Support Local
NEW YEAR NEW start
Why make a break for Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo this winter?
Great bedrooms, beautiful food and an instagrammable location are just three reasons to consider!
The bedrooms are just awesome! More than half of guestrooms are river view rooms - overlooking the river Moy and the picturesque town of Ballina which is on the doorstep. There are a great choice of standard, junior suites , family and superb rooms each offering a world of relaxation and guaranteeing a great night’s sleep. Take for example the family rooms. Each of the family rooms includes all the facilities you would expect and more. There is a wide range of layout options to suit your clan. Choose from the family 2+1 room (3 single beds or 1 double and 1 single), family 2+2 room (1 double bed and 2 single beds), family 2+3 room (3 single beds & 1 double bed or 2 double beds and 1 single bed) and then there are the family suites! The
family suites are extremely spacious and ideal for larger families who want extra space in their rooms to unwind in the evenings with separate bedrooms and living area and these can comfortably fit up to 2 adults and 4 children. The yummy Food! Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo offers a varied menu that has been compiled by the talented head chef and features a wide range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The Ridgepool Restaurant boasts more stunning views of the River Moy. Ballina Manor Hotel is perfectly situated in the centre of town close to all amenities such as tourist attractions, shops, and pubs. Take in the stunning coastlines and fresh sea air on Lacken Strand or Ross Beach. Bingo takes place in
Ballina and the surrounding local areas most nights of the week! A location to Love! Ballina Manor Hotel is the perfect location and base for a fun-filled break in Mayo, situated in the heart of Ballina and only a 1-minute stroll to the town centre, this is the perfect base for exploring and enjoying all that North Mayo and the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way has to offer! Mayo is full to the brim with attractions, wonderful scenery, and activities to keep all ages entertained. Explore Belleek Woods, where you can wander around the Fairy Trail, discover Ceide Fields, go back in time with a visit to The Jackie Clarke Collection, burn off energy at the spectacular Tom Ruane Park or local playgrounds and even if
the weather isn’t on your side the kids will love a few hours at Waterpoint Aqua Park in Enniscrone. In addition to Lacken Strand, Enniscrone Beach or Ross Beach you can choose to enjoy a fun day out at Westport House, visit Achill Island or set a family challenge to climb Croagh Patrick or Nephin. Ballina Manor Hotel is
also an ideal location for a break from Northern Ireland. Belfast is just a few hours drive. Book direct on our website - save up to 15% by booking direct with our stay and save offers! Book your break today at www.ballinamanorhotel.ie or contact the reservations team on T: +353 (0)96 80 900
Tullywest Manor is celebrating over 30 years in business! Tullywest Manor is situated in a beautiful rural setting, overlooking the hills, lakes and farmlands of the Co. Down countryside. It opened its doors to its first residents on 17th March 1989. The aim is to provide high quality services catering
for the individual needs of each resident, ensuring that privacy, dignity and respect of each resident is maintained at all times. Residents coming into care here encouraged to maintain their normal social interests, hobbies and outings with relatives and friends as well as participate in activities and outings
arranged by the home Residents views and suggestions for social activities, outings are sought at Resident meetings and actioned if appropriate Tullywest Manor features a large lounge, dining room, entrance hall with seating area and a spacious conservatory, where residents can circulate
and meet with each other and relatives. Each tastefully decorated bedroom, most with en-suite, offers complete privacy where residents are encouraged to express their own personal tastes. Tullywest recognises the need for a personcentred approach to care. Encouraging staff to learn more about the Residents lives helps us tailor our care to each individual need. Tullywest Manor recognises that
residents are individuals with family and relatives of their own and encourage this bond to continue. They aim to create a comfortable atmosphere of homeliness happiness and caring. 12 Tullywest Rd, S a i n t f i e l d , Ballynahinch BT24 7LX Telephone: (028) 9751 1234 E m a i l : tullywestmanor@ googlemail.com h t t p s : / / w w w. tullywestmanor.com/
Issue 68 - Support Local
NEW YEAR NEW start
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Issue 68 - Support Local
NEW YEAR NEW start
Eastside Advertiser
Look after Number One in 2024
Here are some New Year resolutions worth making for good health! Eat More Foods
Whole
Eating more whole foods is a great way to
improve your health. Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a plethora of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level. Research shows that following a whole-foods-based diet may significantly reduce heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels, as well as decrease your risk of certain diseases,
such as type 2 diabetes. Sit Less and Move More Sitting too much can have negative effects on health. In fact, it may be linked to an increased risk of overall mortality. Making a resolution to sit less is an easy and attainable resolution that can be tailored to fit your lifestyle. For example, if you have a desk job that requires long periods of sitting, make a
resolution to go for a 15-minute walk at lunch or to get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour. Cut Back on Sweetened Beverages Cutting back on sweetened beverages is a smart idea
considering that sugary drinks are linked to an increased risk of obesity, fatty liver, heart disease, insulin resistance, and cavities in both children and adults. Though quitting sweetened beverages
cold turkey is always an option, gradually minimizing your intake may help you kick your sugary drink habit for good. Get More Quality Sleep Sleep is an essential part of overall health, and sleep deprivation can lead to serious consequences. For instance, lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression. There are many reasons why people don’t get enough sleep, so it’s important to focus on your schedule and lifestyle to determine the best ways to improve sleep quantity and quality. Build a Better Budget
Financial stress can have a negative impact on your health. Making a resolution to build a better budget can help you reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Start by tracking your expenses and creating a budget that works for you. Consider cutting back on unnecessary expenses and finding ways to save money, such as cooking at home instead of eating out. By incorporating these New Year resolutions into your life, you can create a healthier and happier you in the coming year. Remember, small changes can make a big difference!
The Eastside Advertiser is published by EDA Media, No 14 Windmill Business Park, 19A-31 Windmill Road, Saintfield. BT24 7DX - This Paper and its contents are copyright and no part may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. 15000 copies with Royal Mail, TDNI and a network of shops. All Calls are recorded for training, quality and control purposes. Tel: 02897 511002 - Fax 02897 511008 - Email: info@edamedia.co.uk - Visit: www.edamedia.co.uk. Visit The Eastside Advertiser Facebook page for our Digital Issue.
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TOP WOMEN
How to Win Customers and Run an Award Winning Business
Running an award-winning business requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Here are some tips that can help you achieve that:
Identify your niche: Identify what makes your business unique and what sets it apart from others in the industry. This will help you create a brand that stands out. Set clear goals: Set clear goals for your business and make sure everyone on your team is aware of them. This will help you stay focused and motivated. Focus on customer satisfaction: Make sure your customers are happy with your products or services. This will help you build a
loyal customer base. Stay up-to-date with industry trends: Keep up-todate with the latest trends in your industry and make sure your business is always ahead of the curve. Invest in your employees: Invest in your employees by providing them with training and development opportunities. This will help them grow professionally and contribute more to your business. Be innovative: Be innovative and creative in your approach to business.
This will help you stand out from the competition. Network: Attend industry events and conferences to network with other professionals in your field. This will help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and build relationships that can benefit your business. Celebrate success: Celebrate your successes along the way, no matter how small they may be. This will help keep you motivated and focused on achieving your goals.
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County Down author Kate launches her first pony book for children!
County Down horsewoman turned author Kate Russell has launched her first equestrian themed children’s book, just in time for the New Year! Kate, a well known figure in the NI world of equestrianism and equine therapy has published ‘Peanut gets his sparkle back’. Kate says: “I have always wanted to write a children’s book from an early age. I have stories whirling in my head and usually inspired by the ponies dogs and cat. My friend had two young boys who would listen to my stories – they encouraged me to write a book and what’s more - asked if they could be in it! Working with children and the ponies through equine facilitated learning I could see the very real benefits of the interaction with the different pony personalities.” The book is based on the main characters Peanut an 8hh Falabella cross pony and Tobi a 27 yr old rescue pony. In real life this odd
couple have struck a very strong friendship and became pretty much inseparable! Peanut is young, curious and cute and everyone who meets him falls in love with him. Tobi is older, a little bit stiff but calm with the kindest nature. They are both very much loved for being themselves! In real life Tobi & Peanut are also fully qualified therapy ponies who like nothing better than helping others! The story aims to help children with anxiety and worries and show that that it is ok to have worries but not to let them build up. ‘Peanut, gets his sparkle back’ is a heartwarming children’s book about overcoming fear and finding the courage within oneself. With charming colour illustrations by the talented Faye Hobson, and a relatable story, young readers will
be inspired to face their own worries and become brave little ponies themselves! ‘Peanut gets his Sparkle Back’ is ideal for children 3-9 with coloured text suitable for children with dyslexia, teaches valuable lessons about perseverance, selfconfidence and the power of friendship.
It’s a must read for parents, teachers and children alike and is sure to become a beloved addition to any child’s bookshelf! Join Peanut and his friends on their journey to bravery and show your little ones that they too can conquer their worries and be the courageous heroes they’ve always dreamed
of being. You can find out more about Tobi, Peanut and friends and also purchase a copy of the book direct online at http:www. tobiandpeanuttherapyponies.com/ product-page/peanutfinds-his-sparklechildren-s-storybook priced £10, (postage fees apply).
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Dynamic Duo behind success of Belfast Pilates & Physiotherapy Sonia McCay and Gillian Duggan have worked together for longer than they care to remember! Their passion for Clinical Pilates grew from their Physiotherapy treatment of back pain patients and in 2007 they started Belfast Pilates. They have over 30 years clinical physiotherapy experience between them and are fully certified APPI Pilates instructors. The duo have a wealth of post graduate certificates in spinal manual therapy, orthopaedic medicine, myofascial release, massage, rehabilitation and acupuncture. In 2020, they moved to
their current premises near Holywood Arches. The Award Winning practice currently offers 50 classes per week from mat beginners, progressive, intermediate, antenatal, postnatal, mature movers and Reformer pilates. The clinic has three Pilates studios and seven physio treatment rooms. There are also nine, top of the range, Allegro 2 Reformer machines® . Pilates Reformer classes have now been added to the ever growing, matwork classes each week. Sonia and Gillian have completed Reformer training through the APPI (Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute). The APPI is the gold standard in Physio led Pilates training. All Physios are HCPC registered Chartered Physiotherapists who are APPI Certified Instructors or equivalent. The classes originated from the need to rehabilitate patients with ongoing back problems. It has since grown to incorporate general injury prevention, sport specific rehabilitation, Ante/ Post Natal, mother and baby classes, specialist
paediatric children’s classes, as well as catering for those who just enjoy Pilates. There are a range of early morning, day time and evening classes. There are also one to one Pilates and Physiotherapy appointment times throughout the week. Clients range from children to the elderly, those who are less
active to elite athletes. There are in-house associate Physiotherapists specialising in Acupuncture and Paediatrics and specialist pelvic health Physiotherapy for Urinary Incontinence and Postnatal Mummy Checks. Contacts: Email natasha@ belfastpilates.co.uk for
info about class spaces.; Physiotherapy information or Postnatal Mummy Check availability with our pelvic health physio Claire Flanagan Info@belfastpilates. co.uk book online www. belfastpilates.co.uk or ring reception 9047 1122 for physiotherapy.
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New Principal welcomed at Lisnasharragh Primary School
Lisnasharragh Primary School is excited to welcome new Principal, Mrs Lynsey Stewart! Mrs Stewart joins Lisnasharragh from Ligoniel Primary School, where she was Principal for 7 years. Mrs Stewart is passionate about education and the opportunity for children to reach their full potential. She is looking forward to getting to know pupils, parents and staff as she begins her new role. Here’s what Mrs Stewart had to say about her own school days and her priorities as she begins this new Principal-ship. Can you describe yourself in four words.
Friendly, caring, creative and passionate. What was your favourite subject at school? I loved school. My favourite subjects were Maths, Geography and Music. Today I still love to sing and travel and Maths is still very important to my role as a Principal. Tell us about your home life. I am married to Chris and have two fabulous children, Nathan (13) and Jessica (9). I also have a pet rabbit called Robbie. What are your priorities starting this new post?
I am looking forward to getting to know all the children and their families. I will be working with the staff to continue to create a learning environment in which all children and staff feel valued and cared for. Lisnasharragh Primary 1 Open Afternoon is on Tuesday 9th January 2024, starting from 3:30pm. Book a slot for a tour! You can also take a virtual tour at www.lisnasharraghps.com Lisnasharragh Primary School is at Tudor Dr, Castlereagh, Belfast BT6 9LS.
Are you a top achiever at work? According to an article on Harvard Business Review, high achievers are 400% more productive than the average employee and they have four things in common. These are: The ability to tap into your intrinsic motivation. Why did you enter your chosen profession? Getting to the “why” behind your career choice is critical, as it will help you get in touch with your deepest motivations, block out distractions, and potentially adjust (or re-engage) with your current path. Get comfortable with failure. Some people fear failing, while others fear succeeding. High achievers fear “not trying” more than they fear failing. Reinforce your
foundation. Despite having done a task or routine countless times, high achievers still work on the basic skills foundational to their current, and future, success. Become a lifelong learner — but not necessarily in the classroom. High achievers learn through discussions with mentors, colleagues, peers, and mentees, coupled with reading, observing others, watching videos, and listening to podcasts. Property Update cites the following habits of high achievers:
Consistency — High Achievers go at it every day even when they are down, lack motivation, are sick, financially destitute, when life goes wrong. Focus — High Achievers are single-mindedly focused on their goals, dreams, and routines. Visionaries — High Achievers have a vision or a blueprint. Persistent — High Achievers pursue their goals and dreams relentlessly. Here are some habits of successful people
Always looking at setbacks or failures as learning opportunities. Staying strong also means that you treat yourself with kindness. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure you have the things you need to thrive. Most successful people work on developing habits to help them along the way. These habits allow them to stay committed to their goals, practice time management, keep on the right path and remain mentally and physically healthy enough to keep going.
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How to start a business in turbulent times It could be a good time to start a business if you have a good idea and plan ahead
If you are planning on starting your own business in today’s economic climate, you have the advantage of being able to learn from those who have gone before, which will assist you in making a success of your idea now. You will however need to consider a number of factors to ensure the best chance of success. What do you enjoy? You’re going to devote a lot of time and energy to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise, so it’s important that you
enjoy what you do. Create A Powerful Vision Why are you in business in the first place? What’s the inspirational dream that convinced you to go out on your own? There may be times when you doubt yourself, but if your vision is strong, it will be the thing that sees you through those times. Develop your business plan An active business and marketing plan will be your greatest asset at this early stage in you having your own
business. Finance for start-ups For start-ups, establishing cash flow as quickly as possible is vital to keeping your operations going through your critical first year and beyond. Create clear financial goals, a strong pricing model, a robust payment process and measurements systems that will lead to larger profits, increased cash flow and a healthier, more successful business over time. Create a ‘customer first’ attitude Create a good database of customers and prospects and ensure you look after it through regular email and telephone contact with clients, former clients and prospective clients. Let them know you’re thinking of them. Surround yourself with successful people You need a support system while you’re starting a business. Surround yourself with
successful people who will motivate, support, challenge and encourage you. Successful business owners know what their skills are. Outsource those things that aren’t your specialty, and use that time to go and get some new business. Create professional business processes Everything about you and the way you do business needs to let people know that you are a professional running a serious business. Establishing key processes or systems from day one will ensure your success and build up your reputation as someone customers can trust to deliver. Be realistic and have belief Every successful business is built one step at a time so give yourself time to learn. Self-belief is an entrepreneur’s most precious commodity. If you don’t believe in yourself, then you can’t expect customers to. Log onto http://www. nibusinessinfo.co.uk for more information.
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Reduce Costs with your Home Technology Work from home? Managing home expenses often emerges as a crucial yet challenging task.
And when you’re trying to juggle everything from utility bills to unforeseen repair costs, it can sometimes feel like your finances are spiralling out of control. If you are in a position to plan over the medium to long term, with a bit of strategic planning and the aid of modern technology, reigning in those expenses becomes not just plausible, but straightforward. Today we’ll take a closer look at a few inventive ways you can harness the power of home technology to cut down on your household expenses, without compromising on comfort or convenience. From making the switch to energy-efficient gadgets to exploring repair options for your digital devices, there is a lot you can do when it comes to savvy, costeffective home management. Repair Instead Of Replace These days, the immediate reaction to a malfunctioning device is often a replacement. However, a more cost-effective and
environmentally conscious approach is to repair. With companies like Likewize Repair offering mobile phone and tablet repairs, it’s possible to breathe new life into your gadgets without having to make a new purchase. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces electronic waste, making it a winwin for both your pocket and the planet. Before you discard, consider repairing, as it’s an innovative way to reduce costs and promote sustainability. Embrace Smart Lighting Systems Smart lighting systems are making waves in the realm of home technology. A clever investment, these systems allow you to control the lighting in your home using a mobile app or even voice commands, adding a level of convenience to your daily routine. Moreover, they give you the flexibility to customise the lighting based on your needs, from dimming the lights to setting schedules
that help in reducing energy consumption. By optimising the use of lights only when necessary, you can lower your energy bills, making your home not only smarter but also more cost-efficient and eco-friendly. Upgrade To A Smart Thermostat Smart thermostats permit a level of control and personalisation that was previously unheard of, enabling homeowners to adjust their heating settings with unparalleled precision. Through intuitive programming, a smart thermostat learns your habits and preferences, adjusting the temperature automatically to suit your daily routine. This not only elevates your comfort but also assists in trimming down energy consumption and, consequently, reducing your utility bills. It’s a forwardthinking move that aligns with the modern ethos of maximising convenience while minimising waste. Invest In Energy-Efficient
Appliances Modern households are recognising the value of investing in energyefficient appliances. These appliances, whether it’s a refrigerator or a washing machine, are designed to use less energy without compromising on performance. They are an excellent way to reduce your household’s carbon footprint and save on monthly utility bills. When shopping, look for the Energy Star label or ratings that indicate the appliance’s
energy efficiency. Making a conscious decision to choose products that are kind to both your wallet and the environment will allow you to adopt a sustainable approach to home living. Implement Home Insulation And Glazing Taking a step further in energy conservation, implementing home insulation and glazing are fundamental strategies to create a more energyefficient living space. Insulation helps retain heat during the cold months and
keeps the house cool during the summer, thus reducing the need for heating and cooling systems. Likewise, double glazing your windows can significantly cut down the amount of heat lost, contributing to a cosy and comfortable indoor environment all year round. These improvements, while requiring an upfront investment, will pay off in the long run through consistent savings on energy bills. For more info see www. prowess.org.uk
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10 reasons to Shop Local!
Shop local and enjoy good service, product knowledge, high quality - and know that you’ve really done something about keeping your local shops and local services in business and your local communities thriving. 10 reasons to Shop Local! 1. Local shops sell a wide range of great products at affordable prices. Many people get out of the habit of shopping locally and are then surprised by the range of products and gifts available. 2. Shopping locally saves you money. Out of town shops have done a good job of convincing us all that sole traders = expensive, but the evidence just isn’t there to back this up. If you add in travel, parking costs, fees to transport larger items home and customer time, the overall cost is often much greater. 3. Shopping locally retains our communities. People don’t like losing shops and services in small towns and villages but don’t equate this to how they spend their money. Shops will only survive if customers
spend locally - so if you want a vibrant town centre, where people can socialise as well as shop, we need to encourage people to shop locally. 4. Shopping locally retains our distinctiveness - avoid clone towns! Many town centres in Britain look the same with franchises and multinationals. Independent shops create distinctive shopping experiences and stock different products. Independent shops keep traditional local products alive. They respond more quickly to the needs of local customers, stocking products to meet the changing population needs. 5. Shopping locally saves the environment. We are all aware of CO2 emissions and our environmental impact. Local shops often stock a higher percentage of locally sourced goods for
which distribution time and customer journey times are reduced. This helps reduce our global footprint. 6. Shopping locally creates jobs. Shops in our town centres and villages create local employment and self employment. These people in turn spend in the local economy. Evidence shows that for every £10 spent in an independent shop, £25 is generated for the local economy compared to £14 spent in multinationals. 7. Local independent shops invest more in our communities. Sole traders and independent stores are proportionally more generous in their support for local charities, carnivals, schools and community events. So supporting local shops means a financial return for our community. 8. Local shops are for everyone.
Most people can get to their local shops easily. This is especially important for the elderly, the vulnerable, young people and those without private transport. Keeping your shops open by buying locally helps the whole community. 9. Local shops value you more. Evidence from numerous surveys shows people receive better customer care and service in local shops. Traders survive by their reputation and repeat business - so shopping locally means that you get a higher standard of service. 10. Shopping locally saves services. Private, voluntary and public sector services cluster around shops. The loss of the high street often corresponds to a reduction in these services. As shops disappear, so do hairdressers, vets, dentists etc
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How to cut costs, save money and keep warm this winter
With the darker nights still here and temperatures dropping across the UK, the temptation to flick on the heating and cosy up by the fire is here. Despite the new energy price cap leaving some bills to cost less than last year, there are still many ways you can reduce the costs and keep expenditure to a minimum. This is why experts at Howden Insurance have revealed their top tips on saving energy at home to lower household bills, whilst keeping your home and family warm during the colder months. Following this guide over the Winter will help to reduce energy bills, allowing Brits to save money, stay warm and make smarter decisions when it comes to energy usage. Water Efficiency It is vital to know that around 25% of your home’s energy consumption is used by heating water, but it is possible to save money while you are in the shower, surprisingly. By reducing the amount of time you spend in the shower, it can help to reduce your bills massively. By shaving off a few minutes in the shower, you can save up to £150 each year on your bill. Another way to ensure
your hot water is being used efficiently is by adding a water-efficient showerhead into your bathroom, most of which cost between £10-£20. The showerheads restrict the amount of water coming through the head, and when fitted properly, make sure you have no leaking areas, which could be costing you vital pennies. Correct insulation is key Draught-proofing your home doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. If you notice that your home is losing a lot of its heat quickly and it’s hard to keep warm, you can try some insulation hacks to try to combat the escaping heat. Remember to identify the areas that are causing the escaping heat first before trying these steps: • Move your furniture to maximise heat – if your furniture is blocking your radiators, you are essentially throwing money away. It is important to let the heat circulate in a room properly, so have a play around with your furniture placement and make sure you aren’t blocking off the heat at the source.
• Invest in a smart thermostat – as well as being totally cost-effective, smart thermostats are a great way to manage your home’s temperature through your phone. They offer an easy way to set timers for when you are on your way home, that way, your home can be toasty when you get in, as well as having complete control over the temperature in each room. • Upgrade your curtains or blinds – when a home has thick curtains, it allows the heat to stay in the room
and not easily escape. Remember to put your blinds down and curtains across as soon as it starts to get dark, as this will also prevent escaping heat. If you are looking for a more substantial and long-term way of insulating your home better, you can, of course, invest in both loft and roof insulation as well as floor insulation. This option is pricier but can reduce costs in the long run. Improper insulation is a total waste of energy, so make sure to check any gaps
around windows, doors and vents for cracks which need to be sealed appropriately. Turn off radiators in rooms you aren’t occupying This one is a must and could draw you in a massive yearly saving by whittling down the temperature valves on your radiators when you aren’t in the room. If turning the radiator completely off is not something you want to consider, reducing the temperature by half can still make sure to keep the room at around 15-20C and for a room you don’t tend to venture into, is a comfortable temperature. Unplug devices once they are charged British Gas estimated that around 23% of a home’s electrical use could be eaten up by having devices still plugged in and charging once fully charged or by keeping devices on standby; this equates to around £200 per year. The benefits of unplugging your devices once they have a sufficient amount is that you will prolong the battery life and longevity of your device, as well as save some cash.
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Common reasons your car will fail its winter MOT
A new study reveals the most common reasons cars fail their MOT in the run up to the festive period – with lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment named the biggest problem area. Insurance broker One Sure Insurance analysed data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to determine the most common reasons for MOT failure among class 4 vehicles (cars, vans, motorhomes and other small commercial vehicles) in the October-December quarter. It turns out that drivers need to be especially vigilant when monitoring their car this time of year, as almost a third (29%) of cars fail their winter MOT, with an average of 2.5 issues detected. Ranking first as the most common reason for MOT failure was faults in lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, which comprised over a quarter of total defects found at 26.1%. Of the total MOT tests, 11.9% were identified as having
at least one failure in this category. In second was faulty or broken suspension systems, which encompassed almost a fifth (19.2%) of defects. Failures with suspension were encountered in almost 1 in 10 (9%) tests. Following in third was brake failures, accounting for 15.9% of defects and observed in 6.9% of tests. In fourth was tyre failures, making up 12.3% of defects and present in 6.4% of tests. Rounding out the top five was visibility issues, which includes anything blocking the windscreen or the driver’s eyeline. These made up 7.9% of total defects and were identified in 4.7% of tests. In sixth was damage to the vehicle’s body, chassis and structure, which includes the frame, interior
and bumpers. These failures accounted for 6.6% of defects and were in 3.7% of tests. Noise, emissions and leaks followed in seventh, comprising 5.7% of total defects and occurring in 3.3% of tests. In eighth was steering, with issues with the steering wheel and steering system components making up 3.1% of defects and presenting in 1.9% of tests. Ranking ninth was faults with seat belts and supplementary restraints, such as airbags. These comprised 3.1% of defects and were found in 1.1% of tests. Completing the top ten was identification of the vehicle, such as license plates and vehicle ID numbers. These were responsible for 0.7% of defects and were detected
in 0.4% of tests. On the other end of the spectrum, faults with speedometers and speed limiters were uncommon, with failures in the category comprising 0.01% of total defects. Similarly, they were observed in just 0.1% of tests. Issues with seatbelt
installation were equally rare, consisting of 0.01% of defects and presenting in 0.01% of tests. Failures with road wheels were also relatively uncommon, constituting 0.7% of defects and appearing in 0.4% of tests. Taking an MOT test in the winter months may
seem more daunting than usual, as there’s the added pressure of navigating potentially harsh weather conditions along with typical wear-and-tear. However, there are precautions you can take to make sure you’re as prepared as possible. A spokesperson for
One Sure Insurance said: “While taking an MOT test in the winter months can come with its own set of challenges, you still stand a good chance of passing if you’re aware of the issues to look out for and address them well before your test. “As a bare minimum safety measure, ensuring that seatbelts are fitted correctly and can fasten properly is an essential check. As lights are the most common issue, it’s a good idea to make sure that they’re working properly before you take to the road. Functioning lights are really important - especially in the winter months when driving in darkness is a regular occurrence. “Testing your breaks is also key – they should be in good condition and responsive. Make sure to inspect the tread depth and overall condition of your tires too,
as these are often impacted by the winter weather. Make sure they meet the legal requirements and are free from damage. “Good visibility is essential when driving, particularly during winter where adverse weather conditions can cause additional obstructions. Ensure that your mirrors are attached securely and provide a clear view, and check that your wipers are functioning properly. “Remember, if your dashboard is displaying any warning lights, you need to identify the issues and resolve them before the test. Regular checks, maintenance and servicing throughout the year can increase your chances of passing an MOT test, so don’t leave everything to the last minute – especially if you’re looking to avoid a big bill just before Christmas!”
Searching for roller garage doors that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable prices?
Then look no further than Garolla, the UK’s first nationwide roller garage door installer. Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla garage door. Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla garage door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications. From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy salesmen in sight. As well as installing your garage door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Offering style as well
as substance, Garolla electric garage doors are available in 21 colours and come in two different slat sizes to perfectly fit
any opening. Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of measuring, fitting
and VAT. For more information visit their website www.Garolla. co.uk or, alternatively, give them a call on 028 9246 0024
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NIEA urges householders to check oil tanks before winter fuel top up
Before your winter fuel top up the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is encouraging anyone with a domestic heating oil tank to carry out a number of simple checks to prevent leaks or spills to protect our environment and wildlife. There are simple steps householders can take to check for and prevent leaks or spills which include: • Arrange for your tank to be inspected annually by a competent person. • Walk around your tank and check that there are no obvious cracks, damage, whitening or deforming of plastic tanks or rusting, pitting or blistering of paint of metal tanks.
• Clear back vegetation that has become overgrown around your tank and check that there are no signs of a leak from the tank or its pipework, valves and filters. Staining, dampness, odour or dieback of vegetation could be a sign of a leak. • Check there are no signs of cracking or subsidence on the tanks base or supports. • Situate your tank on a firm, flat base that
extends 300mm beyond the tank perimeter. • Keep an eye on your oil use. If you suddenly use more oil than expected, you should check your tank and pipework for leaks. • Check how much oil is in your tank and don’t over order. • Try to be at home when your oil is delivered to make sure your tank isn’t overfilled and you are able to act if there is a problem. For more information
on how to inspect your tank and connections check out Oil Care Campaign regular checks guide at http:// o i l c a r e . o rg . u k / l o o k after-your-oil/regulartank-checks/ or on NI Direct at https://www. nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ check-your-oil-tank If you are unfortunate to have a spill further guidance is available on both the NIEA’s oil spills at home page https://www.nidirect. g o v. u k / a r t i c l e s / o i l -
spills-home and Oil Care Campaign website ‘http://oilcare.org.uk/ dealing-with-spills/. If you wish to report an oil spill or leak that could affect rivers or coastal waters please contact the NIEA
incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or email emergency-pollution@ daera-ni.gov.uk. More info is available at https://www.nidirect. g o v. u k / c o n t a c t s / northern-irelandenvironment-agency