Eastside Advertiser 62

Belfast Festival of Learning made welcome return to the city

The Belfast Festival of Learning made a welcome return to the city recently with a week-long programme of free interactive and engaging events.

Promoting lifelong learning for people of all ages, the festival took place in venues across Belfast at the end of March.

Events included cookery classes, science demonstrations and the opportunity to learn a new skill such as crochet, knitting and coding.

Reminding residents that there is no age limit to education, Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Michelle Kelly said: “Learning opportunities should be available to everyone, whether you’re aged 5 or 75, and The Belfast Festival of Learning is testament to that ethos.”

“Within The Belfast

Budding Belfast scientists assem B led

At half-term, 16 pupils from five Belfast primary schools experimented at the first ever Belfast City Science Camp at W5, thanks to Belfast City Council and partners.

The event also tied in with the Northern Ireland Science Festival. Specially tailored for their age group, the camp included workshops, science shows, exhibition visits, construction challenges, coding, and animation - all linked to science, technology, engineering and maths.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Tina Black said: “It’s fantastic to see these young pupils coming together from Black Mountain, St Joseph’s,

Currie, Victoria Park, Lead Hill and Blythefield primary schools to be inspired by science. They’re learning about three themes – space, music and animation and construction through fun, interactive activities which focus on renewable energies, technology, electronics and engineering.

“Our Belfast City Science Camp is all about getting young people excited about science and encouraging them to think about STEM careers. Thanks to a programme of regional

investment from sources including the Belfast Region City Deal, we’re going to see many more science, technology, engineering and maths related job opportunities and increasing demand for qualified talent from employers over the next decade.

“Giving our young people opportunities and support to help them fulfil their potential is an important part of our first Community Plan – The Belfast Agenda. The government’s 10X ambition is also centred

on the core technologies and clusters where we can develop world-leading capabilities in the next decade – so we want to start early and inspire our young people in these areas.”

For more information on Belfast City Council’s programme of employability and skills support, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ employability and for more information on the Belfast Region City Deal, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ belfastregioncitydeal.

Agenda, we have a vision that our city should be a great place for everyone to live - and providing lifelong learning opportunities is a core part of this. Learning has the potential to transform lives for the better- it can build better relationships and help enhance quality of life for everyone in our city.”

Belfast is part of UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities and was awarded a UNESCO Learning Cities Award for outstanding learning milestones in 2021. For a full list of other activities on offer this month, visit www. belfastcity.gov.uk/events

Pupils from Black Mountain, St Joseph’s, Currie, Victoria Park, Leadhill and Blythefield primary schools were recent participants in the Belfast City Science Camp some pupils are pictured with Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Tina Black

Lord Mayor encourages residents to ‘Take 5’ in city parks

Sixteen benches with special QR codes are to be installed in Belfast parks to encourage users to take 5 and access information to look after their emotional wellbeing.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tina Black, has visited the recently installed ‘Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing’ bench in Dunville Park.

The blue bench encourages users to focus on their mental and emotional wellbeing and features a QR code directing people to the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Minding Your Head website.

The initiative is part of a partnership with Belfast City Council and the Public Health Agency, and benches will appear in parks across Belfast.

Councillor Black commented on the positive initiative and said: “I am delighted to take a seat on this newly installed bench here in Dunville Park. The bench is bright, it caught my eye and is a fantastic new asset for visitors to the park as a reminder for them to ‘Take 5’ and become aware of not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional wellbeing too.

“In Belfast, we are so lucky to have an abundance of green spaces and, with 16 of these benches planned for parks across the city, it is

another way of connecting communities following the pandemic and focusing in on what is important. “I would encourage everyone to check in on themselves, do what the bench says and just take 5 and remember that support is there if you need it.”

The Take 5 Steps are Connect, Be Active, Take notice, Keep Learning and Give.

The sixteen benches will be located across north,

south, east and west Belfast.

Frances Dowds, Health Improvement Manager at the PHA said: “Access to information on the services and support that exist across our communities is extremely important. We are fortunate that Belfast has a wide range of health and social wellbeing supports available.

“The Public Health Agency is delighted to partner with the council on this initiative and we

encourage people using the benches to scan and use the QR codes. This will take them to the Take 5 Steps to wellbeing, as well as information on the wide range of support services available across the city that can help people on their emotional wellbeing journey.”

More information on health and wellbeing is available by visiting belfastcity.gov.uk/ healthandwellbeing

Personal trainer and mental health advocate delivers a

knock-out

business with innovative boutique boxing gym

Belfast personal trainer and mental health advocate Jake McBride has turned his passion for fitness into a ‘knock-out’ business with the launch of his very own boutique boxing gym, Hooked Belfast, thanks to help from the Go For It programme in association with Belfast City Council.

This project is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2020) programme.

Jake McBride launched Hooked Belfast at the beginning of January 2023; inspired by different gyms and their styles on a trip to London, he identified a gap in the market for an innovative boutique boxing gym in Northern Ireland. Having faced his own mental health struggles, Jake realised that when he was boxing, he felt happy and noticed a significant improvement in his mental health and overall wellbeing as a result.

Jake explains: “I wanted to share my knowledge and passion for boxing by providing a service, so others could also experience the positive mental and physical health benefits that have helped me massively.

“Since launching Hooked Belfast, I’ve enjoyed the

freedom of being able to make my own decisions while creating a community of people who want to try something a little bit different from existing gyms across the city.”

Jake launched Hooked Belfast after taking part in the Go For It programme through Belfast City Council.

The Go For It programme is delivered free of charge by a team of experienced business mentors through Northern Ireland’s wide network of enterprise agencies. It provides expert advice and support to develop a business plan that helps entrepreneurs turn their ideas into commercial businesses.

After seeing a Go For It social media post, Jake got in touch with the programme online and from there, began the process through in-person meetings.

Jake continues: “The Go For It programme was amazing. I was matched with a business advisor and

their attention to detail and overall professionalism was top notch. My business advisor was so knowledgeable and gave me so many tips on how to run a business.

“My business advisor also helped me to better understand business and its different aspects such as marketing and to develop a business plan.

The plan helped me to work through all the ideas I had in my head and put them on paper. This gave me the strategic direction and focus I needed to transform my concept into a viable business.”

Jake encourages anyone with a business idea to take that leap and turn their idea into a reality: “If you’ve got an idea and want to start a

business, I think you should go for it! You’ll never know until you try, and if you’re passionate and have ambition, you’ll succeed at whatever you go for.” If you have a business idea you’d like to develop or if you are thinking about starting a business, contact the Go For It programme on: 0800 027 0639 or visit: www.goforitni.com

MEMORIAL BENCHES TO REMEMBER THOSE LOST TO COVID-19

Two specially-designed benches have been installed as part of a council initiative to remember those who lost their lives during the pandemic.

They were unveiled today, on the UK National Day of Reflection, which marks the third anniversary of the first Covid-19 lockdown.

Both seats, which were designed in-house by the council, are made of black

powder-coated steel. They have laser-cut imagery embossed on the back plates along with the wording: remembering all those we lost throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. One bench will be sited in

Dundonald’s Moat Park and the other at Lagan Valley Island in Lisburn. Their installation follows discussions that first took place in July 2020 at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. The council considered a number of commemorative options, following proposals put forward by Alderman Paul Porter for an appropriate and lasting memorial.

A consultation exercise was carried out on the plan to develop a reflective space with planting and a bespoke bench - and then agreed by council Members. An online ‘book of memories’ has also been opened by the council which can be

accessed via a QR code on the bench. This will give visitors the opportunity to record the names of loved ones who died during Covid, along with messages and tributes.

The benches were unveiled by the Mayor, Councillor Scott Carson, the Chair of LCCC’s Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Stuart Hughes and the initiative’s proposer, Alderman Paul Porter, as well as representatives from the Ulster and Lagan Valley hospitals and end- of-life charity, Marie Curie.

Online memorial book https://www. lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/ covid-memorial-bench

Cinemagic Chief Executive awarded a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the City of Los Angeles

Cinemagic, a Belfast based film charity for young people, has received a special award from the City of Los Angeles following the screening of Abia, Cinemagic’s newest production that homes in on gender-based violence in the Middle East.

Joan Burney Keatings, chief executive of Cinemagic, attended the event in the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles. The event was hosted by the Consulate General of Mexico and the Consulate of Ireland on International Women’s Day. She was there to reinforce the message of the short film, which highlights the violence faced by women in Syria and Jordan.

After the screening and a discussion about gender-based violence between Joan Burney Keatings and Gloria Cruz, Director for policy and advocacy of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Ms Burney Keatings was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for Cinemagic’s efforts. The certificate commended the film charity for its “talent and courage” shown while producing

the film in Jordan alongside young Jordanians and Syrian refugees and in partnership with Generations For Peace and supported by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs

It read, “On behalf of the City of Los Angeles, I commend you for the talent and courage you displayed in producing Abia, a film that tackles the issue of

violence in Syria and Jordan. Your work inspired important conversations around gender-based violence and serves as a critical call to action for all of us. I wish you continued success in making films that provoke positive change in our world.”

The certificate was signed by Eunisses Hernandez, Council Member 1st District,

City of Los Angeles. Cinemagic’s Abia took Best Foreign Language Film at the recent British Short Film Awards. It is one of many achievements for the charity, which was set up 35 years ago with an aim to promote cross-community in Northern Ireland. It has since evolved to work across the world on projects with a similar ethos.

Belfast’s Classroom a ssistants get top marks!

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Christina Black hosted a celebration event at City Hall recently for 52 Belfast residents who have successfully completed the first ever Classroom Assistant Employment Academy. Made possible with funding from the Labour Market Partnership, Belfast City Council’s Classroom Assistant Employment Academy has exceeded all expectations, with 14 academy graduates already securing employment, and the remaining candidates going forward to interview in the coming weeks.

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Christina Black explains: “Our Classroom Assistant Academy is helping to meet the demand that Belfast schools are currently facing in relation to recruiting entry level teaching support staff. We’re providing a direct link to a new talent pool of entrants into the education sector, and we’re supporting our residents to develop the skills they need to secure quality employment in the city.

“In addition to this, we’re meeting our Belfast Agenda commitment to support inclusive growth by providing free training - enabling people to apply for roles they otherwise wouldn’t be equipped to do. Thanks to our new academy, people can enter the labour market, perhaps for the first time, or get the support they need to re-enter the workplace after being unemployed. Belfast’s children are also benefitting - particularly those with Special

Education Needs.’’

With the help of Labour Market Partnership and Belfast City Council funding, those who gain employment will also complete a six-week OCN Level 3 course in ‘Working with Children and Young People with Special Needs’ and have an opportunity to start a NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools this month. These qualifications will help learners to progress from an unqualified classroom

assistant position to a qualified role, offering improved terms and conditions, permanent contracts, and better pay.

For information on how to apply for a future Belfast Employment Academy, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ employmentacademies

Memories of over 1000 East Belfast Young People.

Sea Cadets can take part in many activities including waterborne activities such as kayaking, sailing and rowing as well as specialist subjects such as Marine Engineering, First Aid, Navigation and Physical Training etc.

Over the St Patrick’s Weekend, TS Formidable Sea Cadets hosted an 80th Anniversary Dinner at the Titanic Hotel, Belfast with 80 guests from across Northern Ireland. The Royal Marines Ceilidh Band and Drum Corps demonstrated

The evening was successful in raising £1250 charities, one being The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity for Veterans.

The Belfast No.3 Sea Cadet Unit was started on the 4th April 1942 with parades being initially held in Elmgrove Primary School on the Beersbridge Road, Belfast. The Officer Commanding was Lt. H. Thompson Sen, a retired Master Mariner who gained his masters ticket in Sail. The Unit Warrant was issued in the following year, on the 5th March 1943. The Unit, growing in number, moved to Owen O’Cork Mill Lane in 1945 under the Command of Lt H. Thompson Jnr (son of the former Commanding Officer). This building was an old flax mill which had its own flax dam, with many young cadets being introduced to boat work on this dam. The unit continued to flourish in number and at the end of 1946, nearly 100 cadets were enrolled. Lt H. Thompson’s (Jnr) own son went on to join the

Royal Navy, becoming Vice Admiral Sir Hugh L. Thompson RN.

Due to development, in 1962 the unit moved into an old factory tied school which was vacant at the time on East Bread Street. After some renovations, the New Headquarters was officially opened by Dr. Dennis Rebbick, Chairman of Harland & Wolff. At this time, the Marine Cadet Detachment was formed, giving young people of the area an insight into the Royal Marines.

The Chairman of the unit, Mr. D. Andrews was able to purchase one of the two HMS Formidable Ship Bells, bearing battle scars from its service in the Far East during the Second World War and duly presented it to the Unit.

The unit then began to conduct rowing and small boat training in Belfast Harbour at Abercorn Basin and Milewater Basin alongside HMS Caroline. It maintained a close relationship with HMS Caroline until its decommissioning from RN Service in December 2009.

1986 saw the addition of a Girls Nautical Training Corps (GNTC) Section, introducing girls to the unit.

In 1997 the unit moved to Calvin Street, off the Beersbridge Road, where it continued to thrive before turbulence in the area and rising costs, it moved to Harbour Court, Belfast

Harbour Estate. Currently the Unit is housed within the Tri Service Cadet Centre at Kinnegar, Holywood conducting boating activities at Belfast Marina and Holywood Yacht Club.

TS Formidable Sea Cadets are celebrating their 80th Anniversary Year and hoping to get all their Cadets a total of eighty qualifications in this anniversary year. their professionalism for the attending guests. A number of ex cadets attended, reminiscing about their past history of being a cadet and how it had influenced their life in such a positive manner. One ex cadet, Ms Kelly Gordon remembered how the cadets gave her the confidence to speak out and be part of a team. This ultimately inspired her to work for the Ambulance Service with her currently working in the Control Room answering peoples calls for help on the 999 system where she has to remain calm under extreme pressures, reassuring patients and their families whilst giving instructions which for many, can save their lives.

The TS Formidable Sea Cadet Unit has helped well over 1000 young people from the Belfast and surrounding area to gain values in Respect, Loyalty, Commitment, Courage, Honesty and Integrity, increasing their teamwork, leadership and communication skills. Now the Unit are increasing in numbers of young people having once had over one hundred cadets on parade. Currently its unit Headquarters at located at the Cadet Centre, Kinnegar Avenue, Holywood, operating on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 18.30 to 21.30. Waterborne activities occur at Holywood Yacht Club and Belfast Marina. The Unit not only have young people wishing to join to train and partake in it activities but also increasingly have young adults wishing to join as young instructors and older members of the community to assist where possible including helping on the fundraising committee. The Sea Cadets are fully inclusive of all communities in Northern Ireland and intergenerational.

Knockout success for local boxers at 2023 Belfast Sports Awards

Local Belfast boxers stole the show at the Belfast Sports Awards celebrations in Belfast City Hall recently.

Former two-weight World Champion boxer, Carl Frampton, Olympic and Commonwealth Games medallist, Paddy Barnes, and former Olympic boxing Coach, Michael Hawkins were inducted into Belfast City Council’s Sporting Hall of Fame joining an illustrious list of local sports heroes, which includes Dame Mary Peters, Hugh Russell, and Sammy McIlroy. The boxing success continued, as boxing siblings Aidan and Michaela Walsh were announced as Senior Male and Senior Female Sports Personality of the Year following their gold medal successes at last year’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The Belfast Sports Awards recognise the sporting achievements of local athletes at all levels and give recognition to the dedication and commitment of coaches and volunteers who work to support their athletes and clubs.

There were two additional inductees to the Sporting Hall of Fame this year. Irish International field hockey star, Shirley McCay, who continues to play and coach with her local club Pegasus, and Fiona Shannon, Ulster GAA Handball joined the boxing trio.

Junior Male Sports Personality of the Year was awarded to Toby Thompson from the Ballymena and Antrim Athletics Club. Ellie

Patrick of the Junior Belfast Giants Ice Hockey team won Junior Female Sports Personality of the year and Nathan McCabe of the Belfast Knights American Football team won Disability Sports Personality of the Year. Other awards presented on the evening included Coach of the Year. Olympic and Commonwealth Games boxing coach, John Conlon won Male Coach of the Year. Laverty Celtic Football club

coach Emma Morgan won Female Coach of the year and Disability Coach of the Year was given to Kenny Bell as head coach of St. Malachy’s Old Boys Youth team. Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Alicia Donaghy of North Belfast Forum, the Healthy Lifestyles award went to Tomaz Rzonca of Polish Anglers NI and the Pathways to Clubs award went to Gary Vernon of the St. Malachy’s Old Boys FC.

TRANSLINK AND NI ANTI-BULLYING FORUM CELEBRATE YOUNG CREATIVE ART SKILLS

Young arts skills were in the frame recently as Translink and the NI Anti Bullying Forum (NIABF) announced the winners of the 2022 Anti-Bullying Week Creative Art Competition at a showcase event hosted at Lanyon Place Station, Belfast.

The event saw pupils representing schools across Northern Ireland, from p2 to Year 10 celebrated for their creative arts abilities with entries which featured visual, written and multimedia arts formats.

The popular annual art competition is a key feature of NIABF’s Anti Bullying Week, supported by Translink, which aims to create awareness of bullying, and the devastating impact it can have on children

and address how to stop it. The theme of this year’s event ‘Reach Out’ was developed to encourage schools to reach out to their pupils and allow them to participate in how Anti Bullying Week is marked, while children were prompted to reach out to teachers and senior members of staff to help shape their anti-bullying policies.

Translink is a longstanding supporter of AntiBullying Week and played host to the winners of the art competition at the awards event which saw a range of the art entries on display for passengers to enjoy.

Winners of each category were:

• Preschool to Primary

3 Category Ruby Shuttleworth, Finaghy Primary School, Belfast

• Primary 4 to Primary 7 Category (Joint winners) Shanarah Miah and Gráinne, St Clare’s Abbey Primary School, Newry Brennan

• Year 8 to Year 10 Category Cara Mc Girr,

St Fanchea’s College, Enniskillen

• Year 11 and Up Category, Rihanna Coulter, Strabane Academy

• Special Merit Category

Sean Breen, Lough Road Learning Centre, Lurgan Commenting on the event and the importance of the Anti-Bullying, campaign, John Thompson, Head of Safety and Corporate Responsibility, said:

“Anti-Bullying Week is a really positive campaign, which helps guide teachers and engage young people. The art competition is a fantastic way to promote the message of respect, safety and inclusivity and the creative skills demonstrated by pupils from across Northern Ireland has been so impressive.

“At Translink we are committed to keeping communities and young people better connected. Whether it’s through travelling to school, work or visiting friends and family,

we know the importance of safe and accessible public transport and we’re delighted to be able to celebrate today’s creative art competition winners who have helped promote that message too.”

Speaking about AntiBullying Week 2022, Northern Ireland AntiBullying Forum Chair, Kathleen Toner, said:

“We have had another successful Anti-Bullying Week campaign again this

year, with thousands of children across Northern Ireland joining us to spread awareness of bullying through this year’ theme ‘Reach Out’.”

“We have been delighted with the standard of entries to the annual Anti-bullying Week Art Competition.

Art is a fantastic medium through which young people can comfortably convey how they feel and it acts as an excellent method for expression.”

Anti-Bullying Week is coordinated by the Northern Ireland Anti-Bullying Forum (NIABF), an interagency group hosted by the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) and funded by the Department of Education. Schools and all children and young people’s settings are encouraged to reach out to the NIABF’s website for more information on tackling bullying www. endbullying.org.uk/ anti-bullying-week

soon to Helens Bay… sudden expansion after 28 years!”

Helens Bay Dental was established more than 28 years and has long had a reputation for cutting edge Dental Care.

As the Practice continues to expand with new team members and clinicians they are excited to soon open at an additional location in Helens Bay New patients can attend for Dental appointments as always, but soon Dental hygiene care can be offered to patients who wish to avail of the latest in Guided Biofilm Therapy, the gold standard

The Practice can also offer full service private dental care including Implants, Invisalign, Composite Bonding, Same day Crowns, Endodontics and Smile Design

Contact the Front of House team on 02891853304 or info@ helensbaydental.co.uk for a complimentary visit with the Treatment Coordinator to book in and see what a difference digital Dentistry can make.

“Coming

WOOD FLOOR WAREHOUSE EASTER SALE EVENT NOW ON!

Wood Floor Warehouse are the ultimate experts in flooring, offering everything from stylish laminates to luxury engineered herringbones at unbeatable prices.

Unlike many retailers who dabble in wood flooring, Wood Floor Warehouse deals exclusively in flooring, which makes them specialists. All the staff are highly trained and offer only the very best professional advice to their customers.

Wood Floor Warehouse is a market leader and they import directly from manageable forests. This means they have bigger stocks, wider choice and better prices. They constantly source new products from around the world and strive to get the best quality and value for their customers. They are always monitoring current trends and offer a vast range of colours and styles from quality suppliers to suit everyone’s budget.

Wood Floor Warehouse offers

a wide range of laminates, engineered, LVT and solid wood from quality brands

such as Egger and Lamett. All floors are available to view in the showrooms

at 68 Balloo Road, Bangor and Ravenhill Road, Belfast or on-line at www. woodfloorwarehouse. co.uk

The showroom is open 8.00am – 5.00pm

Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm Saturday and late night Thursday to 8pm. Make sure you drop in during these times for a great deal and a friendly chat!

Increased help w I th ch I ldcare costs announced I n the s pr I ng Budget

More support towards childcare costs through Universal Credit announced in the Spring Budget.

Childcare costs are the topic of many of the queries we receive through our helpline and can be a source of stress on the finances of many families.

We also know that childcare

providers have been under significant pressure for some time trying to keep their businesses afloat in the face of rising costs, including for heat and electricity, business rates and staff wages.

Since the introduction of Universal Credit, and its predecessor Working Tax Credits, the maximum amount of support that working families could claim towards their registered childcare costs has been fixed at £646.35 per month for one child or £1,108.04 for two or more children. These figures represent 85% of the maximum registered childcare costs that a

household could claim help with through Universal Credit. The result of inflation and rising costs has meant that over the years these figures have fallen behind the amount that the average parent pays towards their childcare bill.

The Chancellor announced in the Spring Budget that from July 2023 these maximum figures will increase by almost 50% to £951 per month for one child and £1,630 for two or more children. This means that through Universal

Credit parents who have one child in registered childcare will receive 85% of childcare costs up to £1,118 per month, and £1,917 per month for two or more children. These higher levels of support are much more in line with the reality of the childcare bills that parents are paying.

In addition, the Chancellor has also committed to increasing these figures in line with the Consumer Price Index each year until 2027/28, meaning that as registered childcare costs

rise over time the support parents receive will remain more aligned with any increases in their childcare bills. In certain circumstances parents in Northern Ireland may also be able to receive additional support through the Adviser Discretion Fund towards childcare costs if they are required to pay a childcare bill up front – such as when moving into work or increasing hours.

Through this fund the Department for

Communities can pay the initial childcare bill instead of the parent having to pay their costs upfront and then claim support back.

Extension of 30 hours free childcare scheme in England

The Budget also saw the announcement of the extension of the 30 hours free childcare scheme in England.

As this scheme is not in place in Northern Ireland, families here will not benefit. Equivalent funding will be provided to Northern Ireland, but there

is no guarantee this will be invested in childcare. Further information

To discuss how these changes to Universal Credit may impact you, contact the Family Benefits Advice Service for a free, personalised ‘better off’ calculation. We can help you work out if you will be better off on Universal Credit or claiming an alternative form of childcare support. Freephone 0800 028 3008 or email hello@ employersforchildcare.org.

All’s well when the lawn’s well.

Over recent years many of us have found a new appreciation for our garden spaces.

They truly do provide a space for relaxation and recuperation and the best garden is enjoyed alongside a luscious green lawn. Whether your garden is large or small, we’re here to help

you achieve a lawn you can all enjoy.

GreenThumb Lawn Treatment Service expertly treat lawns – turning them from tired, weed infested grass areas, to lawns you can be proud of. GreenThumb Belfast is family-owned, with a team of fully trained, local lawn operatives. We have three treatment programmes that include 5 treatments per year of unique bespoke feeds, professional herbicides, and our Oasis water conserver. Plus, additional beneficial treatments dependent on the treatment programme. Whatever problems your lawn may suffer from, you can rest assured we will have a solution to transform your piece of grass into a lush,

weed-free centrepiece to your garden.

It’s not just when we treat your lawn, you’ll benefit from GreenThumb. You can contact us any time for advice on all things lawns, because we know the secret

to a perfect lawn is working together. Get in touch today for a FREE lawn analysis and no-obligation quote: belfastsouth@greenthumb. co.uk or 02890 357 850.

TIP: One of the most important lawn care jobs

for a good-looking lawn is correct and regular mowing. As the weather warms up it’s likely your lawn will need mowing weekly. You should keep the cut between 25mm (1’’) and 40mm (1.6’’) in length.

Crown Your Teapot competition launched to celebrate the Coronation

The Balmoral Show’s popular horticulture competition is back and this year participants are being asked to create a planted teapot to celebrate the Kings Coronation.

The free to enter competition has three categories for budding horticulturists of all ages including Pre-School/Primary school, aged 12-17 years old and an over 18 category.

Ashleigh McGrugan, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) commented, “This year we are marking the Coronation with a very special themed ‘Crown Your Teapot’ competition. We are on the lookout for the most

imaginative planted arrangement using a teapot and look forward to seeing all the creative entries at the Show.’’

Sponsored by Hillmount Garden Centre and 3T Power, the closing date for entries is Friday 7th April at

5pm. To download an entry form click here www. balmoralshow. co.uk/competitions/ other-competitions

Caring for you and your smile!

At both our practices Nigel Smith Dental Care & Holywood Dental Care we welcome patients to a friendly independent family clinic.

Personal service is at the heart of what we do and we are always happy to welcome new patients.

We are a Denplan and Private practice and offer NHS treatment for children. Our payment plans help spread the cost and start from £12.50/month to include two exams and cleans a year with a dentist! Our clinic in Bangor, has recently been awarded 5-Star accreditation from Curaden for our success in educating patients about importance of oral health. All of our hygiene appointments comprise of air flow polish method, a pleasant procedure as an alternative to traditional hygiene methods and patients are providing great feedback. We offer direct access hygiene appointments, meaning you do not need to be registered

with us to access this service. We are a member of the MiSmile Network, one of the largest providers for UK’s most trusted clear aligner; Invisalign! Our treatment coordinator consultation and digital scan for simulations and predicted outcome is complimentary and

we have appointments available every day! All of our dentists are Invisalign Providers and as such there are no long orthodontic waiting lists!

We would be delighted to care for you and your smile and look forward to welcoming you into our digital dentistry clinics. For more information contact

our front of house teams, by phone or email! Nigel Smith Dental Care is at 107 Hamilton Road, Bangor BT20 4LN Tel: 028 91270657 www. nigelsmithdental.com Holywood Dental Care is at 128 High Street, Holywood BT18 9HW Tel: 028 9042 3306 www. holywooddentalcare.co.uk

Ashleigh McGrugan (RUAS) and Henry Patterson launch Balmoral Show’s ‘Crown Your Teapot’ competition. A horticultural competition open to all ages.

What makes a champion sheep?

A champion sheep is one that stands out from the crowd for both judge and spectators. When the sheep go into the ring one of the first tings the judge will look for is any sign of illness or injury. The judge will want to see a well presented animal, he/she will also will look for unique features of that particular breed. This can include whether the tail is docked or not, and characteristic markings of the breed. For example the zwartble (a breed native to the Netherlands) should have two to four white socks, blazes should be uninterrupted and reasonably straight. These may be any width and may continue under the chin, but not into the wool. The white blaze should run from the crown of the head and may include the muzzle. The judge will look at the body shape and conformation of the animal. The shape of the head, muscule

development and size and how the sheep stands in front of the judge are all of importance. The role of the handler can also come into play. They can make their sheep stand out in preparation for the show ring by making sure the sheep have a clean fleece and in trimming the sheep should look wide and balanced. Good feeding and nurture will show through in a well prepared and developed sheep. In the ring the exhibitor will show the animal to best effect, making the animal show its full body length. The sheep should also stand square and straight. The judge will look for a good mouth with an even bite, (rather than an undershot jaw where the upper jaw is too long and overshot jaw where the lower jaw is too long). Ultimately the judge will be rating the sheep by which one they would choose to buy. The animal should have good straight legs

and have a good frame and the exhibiter should show good width by widening the back legs. This shows the judge a good standing sheep with good muscle in the backend. The animal should not have hocks too close together (cow hocks) or a weak pastern. The animal should have a good firm fleece which will be evaluated by the fitness, colour, covering and purity.

Judges normally start

looking from the rump of the animal forwards noticing the breed features , quality of the fleece, depth and width at the back of the animal and that the rear legs that have a good angle at the hocks. For rams the judge looks for deep, wide and thick legs, then good muscle expression in the rear quarter. At the front of the animal there should be evidence of the breed character such as straight forelegs and deep and wide through

the chest. If it’s a ram the judge will also look for good muscular forearm and width over the shoulder. Then from the side the judge will would look for balance, size and scale, long body, and characteristic features of the breed. The exhibitor should also be well presented on show day! He or she should dress up smart for the class and is required to wear a white coat when showing the animal.

New planting boost at Leadhill

The pupils of Leadhill Primary School have been getting really green-fingered, planting hedges, trees and plants to encourage pollinators.

The school were successful in their application to Live Here Love Here for a grant to create a rich pollinator environment in the school site, and were given £6500 to spend on plants and equipment. The tree planting has begun and now the children are excitedly awaiting the installation of a new school greenhouse. As the warmer days of spring hopefully approach, the children are on the look-out for new buds and blossom on the trees and an injection of colour into their flowerbeds and planters. With a range of fruit bushes and plants and the beautiful smells of herbs and flowers, the school grounds are hopefully going to attract a

rich variety of pollinators. The children have been learning about how pollinators are vital in helping our world to stay healthy. They are really excited about how the new plants and trees will help to boost the ecology

of the school site and are helping to make sure that all the new plants are cared-for and nurtured.

As an Eco-School, the Eco-Committee have taken a lead in the project and are working on creating a section on the

school website devoted to celebration of all the environmental projects happening in Leadhill. From planting and litter collections to recycling and energy conservation, the committee are kept really busy all the year round!

Get ready for t he Balmoral Show!

The Balmoral Show will take place from Wednesday 10th - Saturday 13th May 2023 at Balmoral Park, Lisburn.

The Balmoral Show is organised by the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS). The host of competition includes classes for all sorts of livestock ranging from sheep, goats and poulty to cattle and horses. From show jumping to sheep shearing, cookery demos to country music - there’s always lots of other family fun and entertainment going on between classes in the arenas, around the showground and on the Downtown Show Stage!

With so much happening over the 4 days, you’ll be entertained from dawn to dusk. We have arranged

our programme so that many activities are on several times a day, this means you can catch them when it suits you. Pick up a copy of the

Get More from Your Membership with Vitality!

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is encouraging everyone to get active and sign up for a great value Vitality membership package!

Membership provides both individuals and families access across all seven leisure facilities.

Venues include Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Glenmore Activity Centre, Grove Activity Centre, Kilmakee Activity Centre and the Vitality gym at Billy Neill MBE Country Park.

free Map & Timetable when you arrive at the Show or check online in advance.

There are hundreds of quality trade stands brimming

with lovely things to buy including homeware, garden furniture, fashion, artwork and jewellery. The Eikon Shopping Village has everything

Members can enjoy an extensive timetable of activities, classes and courses to suit both adults and children across our sites. It’s the perfect option for anyone planning a family day out or looking to achieve a new fitness goal.

The package includes a choice of 6 gyms, swimming, racquet sports, fitness classes, kids’ classes and the health suite. Members can also access tenpin

bowling, ice skating and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl as well as the Leisure Pool and Mission Inflatable at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Household membership

is only £49 per month for up to 2 adults and 5 children. There is also a household membership category for 1 adult and up to 5 children at only £39 per month. Individual rates and a wide selection

of concession packages are also available too.

To sign up for Vitality membership or for further details on the packages available, please visit https://www.theicebowl. com/vitality-membership/

Families enjoy bowling at Dundonald Ice Bowl as part of their Vitality membership package.

What do you call a flock of W arblers? a chorus? o r a W arble?

Over centuries people have given names, sometimes called collective nouns, to groups or flocks of birds.

A murder of crows. A gaggle of geese. A charm of goldfinches (my favourite). But the question I ask about warblers is a wee bit tongue in cheek because we seldom see them in flocks. Yes, they must ‘flock together’ to some extent when they fly here every spring from southern Europe or Africa and return in late summer, but, at least while they’re here to breed, they live

separate, territorial lives.

There are many warbler species, but I’m only going to cover the three most common, those you’re most likely to hear, chiffchaff, willow warbler and blackcap. And when I say ‘hear’ rather than ‘see’, that’s because they’re very good at not being seen. They’re small, and particularly chiffchaff and willow warbler plumage is a mix of muted green,

brown and yellow, enough to fade into the foliage of the woodland where they live. Even blackcaps, which, yes, do have a black cap (females have a brown one) are hard to spot. But their songs and calls are, for me, the essential sounds of spring when trees are in leaf. Of course, I love the songs of robins, blackbirds and thrushes, often performed where we can see them,

but warblers are something else, their songs and calls echoing through woodland and waterside scrub as they proclaim their territory and seek females to join them. I particularly love the chiffchaff song, even if it’s just pretty much a repetition of its name…chiffchaff, chiffchaff…because it carries such a long way. The willow warbler’s song is much more ‘musical’,

a trilling descent, repeated over and over. But the star is the blackcap, with a melodious song which is the reason for its alternative name, the nightingale of the north.

If you want to listen to their songs, they are available at https://www. british-birdsongs.uk/ alphabetical/. Better still, get out into the countryside this spring and listen to them ‘live’.

JVA

HANNON Coach & Sail is perfect for a city break in Glasgow!

Direct Belfast – Glasgow Express now departing from Belfast, Europa Bus Station.

An award-winning service offering hassle-free travel with very generous baggage allowance, HANNON Coach & Sail is ideal for an Easter or Summer city break in Glasgow. The HANNON Coach Belfast – Glasgow Express Service is the perfect antidote to flying and airport stress! Already hugely popular with those in the know, the 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, perfect 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 City Centre. 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 very friendly telephone booking service. Call

0700

AFTER TITANIC SUCCESS PORTRUSH ARTIST

MARGEY

TO

STAGE SPRING SALE AT GALGORM RESORT

After the recent success of his Solo Exhibition at Titanic Hotel Belfast, Portrush based artist Adrian Margey is looking forward to a busy spring season ahead.

His Portrush Studio and Gallery is now open to the public each Saturday: 11.30am – 5pm, with private viewings during the week by appointment.

Furthermore, Margey is preparing for his Spring Exhibition & Sale of Work at the luxurious Galgorm Resort & Spa

Ballymena from Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd April. Although there will be a strong focus on the landscapes of the Glens of Antrim, Causeway Coast and Belfast City, this one man show will be diverse both in subject matter and in the styles represented. From semiabstract cityscapes to

exuberant landscapes in bold, vibrant colour and expansive beach scenes using a naturalistic palette, this exhibition is sure to appeal to many. The variation in the size of work going on show is also striking, with extra-large canvases contrasting with much smaller works. The exhibition opens on the evening of Friday 21st April: 6pm – 9pm and continues Saturday 222nd 11am – 8pm & Sunday 23rd April: 11am – 6pm. Admission free –everyone welcome.

“It’s shaping up to be a busy season. I’m really looking forward to welcoming guests into my Portrush

Studio and Gallery and also to my solo show at Galgorm this spring. I’ll be on hand to explain the work on show and

to discuss potential commissions,” enthused Margey. Visit www. adrianmargey.com or

telephone 07841593762 for more information about the Galgorm Exhibition or Portrush Studio visits.

Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful Launch Plastic Free Events Guide

Start the journey to reduce your plastic footprint

Environmental charity

Keep Northern Ireland

Beautiful has today launched a Plastic Free Events Guide. The manual aims to support positive change and build momentum to tackle the plastic problem here in Northern Ireland.

Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the guide provides wideranging actions that go beyond decreasing individual plastic consumption and focuses on how events, regardless of their size, can implement practical achievable measures for long-term change.

The guide is geared towards encouraging local businesses, councils, clubs, and all events organisers to reduce their dependence on single-use plastics, highlighting reusable alternatives that minimise unnecessary waste and pollution.

Chris Gourley, Waste and Pollution Solutions

Strategic Lead at Keep

Northern Ireland Beautiful comments, “Our aim is to increase awareness of the issues surrounding the use of plastics and in particular single-use plastics, which are typically thrown away after just one use. We want to motivate action to reduce consumption and get people to reuse and recycle. So, if you are an event organiser or venue,

this guide is most certainly for you.”

The electronic booklet ensures that with some creative planning and practical steps, groups can work together on a journey to reduce their plastic footprint and create low – or zero – plastic events. It comes complete with 10 simple steps that organisations can follow along with two inspirational case studies from right here in Northern Ireland.

Chris continues, “Changes don’t have to cost a lot; in fact, by

cutting down on some plastic-riddled giveaways, you would actually be saving money. But most importantly, by cutting

down on single-use plastic, you are working towards repairing our environment and protecting our future.”

The Plastic Free Event

Guide is available to download from www. keepnorthern irelandbeautiful.org/ businesses-tackling-plastic

Portrush Artist Adrian Margey with his painting of Dunluce Castle

Top 10 ways T o make your dishes heal T hier

Do you want to cook healthier versions of your favourite recipes without losing the taste? Never fear, here are a few tips that will help you adapt your favourite recipes to reduce fat, sugar, salt, calories and increase fibre without changing your normal diet radically.

1. Cut down on fats

If frying, use a good non-stick pan and dry fry (e.g. in the case of mince). Leaving out the oil could cut 45 calories per teaspoon in your meal. If your food is drying out, don’t add more oil, add a little water. Use fats and oils that are high

in good fats (poly- and mono-unsaturated fats), e.g. olive oil and try using less than the recipe suggests. Why not try grilling, baking, poaching, steaming or boiling foods instead of frying where possible?

2. Cut down on salt

Most recipes indicate that you need to add

salt. Replace salt with alternative seasonings such as pepper, herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegar or mustard. Allow people to season their own food after tasting it - they are likely to add less. You could be eating more salt then you think, use our salt calculator to

find out how much salt really is in your food.

3. Cut down on sugar Experiment by using less sugar when you bake – most cakes will work even if the quantity of sugar in the recipe is halved. Items such as fruit cakes, fruit scones and tea breads can be made without adding sugar as the dried fruit will provide sweetness.

4. Increase fibre

Use brown alternatives of rice, pasta and bread to increase the fibre content of recipes which will help you feel fuller for longer. Instead of using all plain white flour in recipes, use a mix of wholemeal and plain flour when baking, e.g. when making apple crumble – you can also add porridge oats to make the top crunchy and add more fibre! Top dishes usually requiring pastry, such as chicken pie, with mashed potato instead.

5. Soups and stews

Allow your broth, stew or soup to cool and skim off the fat that gathers on top of the liquid. Replacing some of the traditional fatty meats in stews with pulses like peas, beans and lentils can save calories and fat as well as adding fibre.

6. Sauces and dips Replace cream, whole milk and sour cream with semi-skimmed and skimmed milk, or low

fat yoghurt. Low fat yoghurt and fromage frais can be used on hot or cold puddings and in dips instead of cream, double cream or Greek yoghurt. Fromage frais is fresh, skimmed cow’s milk cheese but is more like natural yoghurt. It is not suitable for use in cooking.

7. Cheese Use strongly flavoured cheeses like mature cheddar or blue cheese in savoury

dishes - you can use less and still get all the flavour. If you don’t like the strong taste of such cheeses simply use low fat alternatives of your favourites. Grate cheese instead of slicing as it will spread across a dish more easily and you can use less. Replace cream cheese with low fat cream cheese.

8. Mayonnaise

Replace mayonnaise

in salads with natural yoghurt or low fat fromage frais. Better still, try using vinaigrette dressings and serving them on the side. When making sandwiches, choose mayonnaise or butter, not both.

9. Vegetables Flavour cooked vegetables with herbs instead of butter or oil. Replace some meat in dishes such as shepherd’s pie, casseroles and lasagne, with vegetables and pulses (peas, beans and lentils). It is a great way to disguise vegetables for those fussy eaters. More tips on preparing and storing your vegetables!

10. Meat

Trim the fat from meat and remove the skin from poultry before cooking. Then bake, grill, microwave, roast or poach instead of frying it. When roasting, place the meat on a grill rack –this allows the fat to drip away. If you are cooking minced meat, brown it and drain away the fat before adding other ingredients.

Sir Davi D a ttenborough S ay S ‘we mu S t act now’ to Save o ur w il D iS le S

In mid March, in their first major campaign together, the National Trust, the RSPB and WWF began urging everyone in society to come together to halt the destruction of UK nature and take urgent action to Save Our Wild Isles.

Millions of people from all walks of life discovered the wonder but also the fragility of UK nature through the first episode of the new Wild Isles series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

Now, three of the UK’s largest conservation charities, with 324 years of combined experience and 8.5 million combined members, are using their collective voice to call on all sectors of society across the UK to act.

The Save Our Wild Isles campaign will engage the UK public and inspire them to act – highlighting not only how nature underpins everything that makes our lives possible, but also how profoundly threatened it is.

The charities say there is just enough of the UK’s natural world still left to save, and if everyone - the public, communities, businesses and our leaders all urgently work together to aid its recovery, nature can begin to thrive again within the next few

decades. . A new YouGov poll commissioned for the Save Our Wild Isles campaign revealed 70% of people in Northern Ireland are worried about the state of nature in the province, while 74% are worried about the state of nature in the UK. The UK is in the bottom 10% of countries globally for protecting nature [2], yet only 5% believe the UK to be one of the worst countries in the world at preserving nature, with 61% mistakenly believing that the UK is on a par with the rest of the world or even doing better.

The UK is home to some of the most spectacular species on Earth – from puffins to orcas, bees, beavers, butterflies and ancient oak trees – but we are pushing nature to the brink. Last December, global commitments were made which highlighted we have just seven years left to halt and reverse the loss of our natural world [3].

To help support

these calls, one of the first actions the charities will be taking is to engage hundreds of businesses and thousands of employees on the crucial impact that business plays in the fate of nature in the UK and providing tools and guidance on how to take positive action.

The charities will also be providing guidance, advice and inspiration for how people and communities can play an active role in restoring nature near to them. The charities’ partners and celebrity ambassadors are also encouraging everyone to play their part, with further announcements coming in the weeks and months ahead.

In the last 50 years, 38 million birds have vanished from UK skies [4], 97% of our wildflower meadows have been lost since the 1930s [5], and a quarter of all our mammals, such as Greater mouseeared bats, are at risk of extinction [6]. The nature crisis and climate change are two sides of the same coin, so protecting nature is

key to stopping the destruction of our planet and our way of life.

The majority of the public in Northern Ireland see nature as a crucial lifeline and an essential part of daily life. Over three quarters (76%) of respondents were worried about the impact nature loss would have on their life.

Working with nature and not against it gives us cleaner air to breathe, better water to drink and healthier food to eat. A growing body of evidence also shows that time spent in nature makes us happier and

healthier.

Sir David Attenborough, WWF Ambassador has said:

“The truth is, every one of us, no matter who we are, or where we live, can and must play a part in restoring nature. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or powerless by the scale of the issues facing our planet, but we have the solutions. I am hopeful for the future, because although nature is in crisis, now is the time for action, and together we can save it.”

For more information and to Save our Wild Isles visit www. saveourwildisles.org.uk

BMW M odel update M easures for spring 2023.

Innovations in the areas of individualisation, digitalisation and electrification will bring further appeal to the BMW model range in spring 2023.

The BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow celebrated their world premiere in the new BMW 7 Series, and this exclusive option will also be available for the BMW X7 from April 2023. Plus, additions will be made to the selection of exterior paint shades and interior appointments for the BMW 7 Series. Both these luxury models and the fully electric BMW iX will also be offered with the extended Parking Assistant Professional, which enables the Remote

Control Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant functions to be controlled via the My BMW App using an Apple iPhone. BMW Operating System 8 and the latest-generation BMW iDrive multisensory vehicle experience including BMW Curved Display will be introduced into the BMW 4 Series models and BMW M4 line-up in March 2023. And many allelectric models from BMW will come with the charging cable Professional (mode

3) designed for an AC charging capacity of up to 22 kW.

From March 2023, all members of the BMW 7 Series range will be available with additional individualisation options for the exterior and interior.

Exclusive frontend styling brings heightened visual expression to BMW’s luxury models. Here, the optional BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow – first introduced on the new BMW 7 Series and also available for the BMW X7 from April 2023 – radiate a particularly vibrant presence.

The extended Parking Assistant Professional available for the BMW 7 Series, BMW X7 and BMW iX from spring 2023 brings greater comfort when parking and manoeuvring.

The extended Parking Assistant Professional gives

drivers the ability to guide their car into and out of parking spaces and also carry out more complex manoeuvring from outside the car via the My BMW App on their smartphone (available with My BMW App Version 2.12.x).

Switching between

controlling the car when inside it and doing so from the outside is also possible for more extensive manoeuvres using the Manoeuvre Assistant function likewise included in the Parking Assistant Professional. They can be up to six metres away from the vehicle

while doing so. The Manoeuvre Assistant can record and store up to ten manoeuvres at different locations, each covering a maximum distance of 200 metres and up to a combined total of 600 metres. When the vehicle then returns to one of the starting points, the system

performs all the driving tasks required in fully automated form, including acceleration, braking, steering and, if required, multiple direction and gear changes. And it can do so whether the driver remains inside the car or chooses to control the

manoeuvre from outside using their Apple iPhone.

The Driving Assistant fitted as standard on the BMW iX will also include the Trailer Assistant from March 2023. This function carries out the necessary steering movements during reversing manoeuvres when a trailer is coupled to the vehicle.

In spring 2023, the BMW Digital Key plus already available for many current BMW models will gain new and extended functions. These include automatic vehicle unlocking when approaching the car for owners with Samsung smartphones and other smartphones running the Android operating system and the UWB (UltraWideband) chip. Added to which, BMW Digital Keys shared with third parties can be activated more easily inside the car.

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. 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 0041

Hyundai reveals we’re a nation of sense checkers when it comes to pronunciation

Nearly three quarters of Brits (73%) say that they have a good grasp of the English language, yet a new survey has revealed that nearly half (47%) study the correct pronunciation online via a search engine to check that they’ve got it right.

The survey of 2,000 adults highlighted 45% also still turn to a dictionary or thesaurus to double check the pronunciation of a word or phrase.

The study, which has been commissioned by leading car manufacturer, Hyundai, coincides with its change from the anglicised pronunciation of ‘Hy-un-dai’ to the global pronunciation: ‘Hyun-day’. A change that marks a new era for Hyundai in the UK, with a tongue in cheek multi-channel advert and collaboration with Anglophile Korean Billy as he adapts to UK living and pronunciation. The research reveals the top 25 most mispronounced words, with parliament, tenterhooks, quinoa and cache making the list. Having updated our brand’s image and pronunciation locally, we wanted to explore

pronunciation as a topic more broadly and get people talking about those words that we can potentially struggle with in everyday life, such as quinoa and espresso. We have teamed up with Seong-Jae, a.k.a Korean Billy, who is well known for his light-hearted YouTube videos into different dialects within the UK, to explore some British words from Korean standpoint.

Ashley AndrewManaging Director, Hyundai Motor UK

The picture differs across the UK, with those in the North East have admitted to having difficulty with pronouncing ‘probably’ (28%), while the North West trip up over ‘zoology’ (19%) and the West Midlands have struggled with ‘quinoa’ (21%).

There’s also a split when it comes to men and women. The survey

discovered that over half of men (51%) think that by simplifying words, it will make them easier to pronounce. In comparison, over half of women (51%) will turn to search engines to seek assurance in saying

something correctly. It also appears that there is an unspoken rule when it comes to correcting the way friends pronounce words and phrases, even if we know they might be getting it wrong. Just

Ballyrobert has a new Motability specialist!

Ballyrobert has announced the appointment of a new Motability specialist to the team.

Michelle Adams has joined the Ballyrobert Bangor team to provide the community with advice and expertise on choosing a new car through the Motability Scheme.

Offering worry-free motoring, the Motability Scheme is available to anyone who receives the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independent Payment. The Motability Scheme offers customers a brand-new car as part of a worry-free lease package that includes insurance

for up to three named drivers, servicing and maintenance, full RAC breakdown assistance, tyre and windscreen replacement and 60,000 mileage allowance over three years.

Michelle Adams has worked in the automotive industry for 12 years and has been an esteemed Motability accredited specialist for 9 years.

Michelle has joined the team to assist people looking to lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme.

With their expert knowledge they will be on hand to welcome visitors to Ballyrobert, answering questions and helping people to select the right vehicle for their needs. This includes test

drives, ordering the car and providing support throughout the lease.

Michelle Adams commented:

“I am looking forward to welcoming both new and existing customers to Ballyrobert Bangor and assisting them in choosing their next vehicle on the scheme.

We have an amazing line up of spectacular vehicles currently on the Motability scheme from NIL deposit. Please feel free to call into the Vauxhall showroom at 402 Belfast Road or give me a call on 02891 852262 to arrange a convenient appointment”

under a third (29%) have revealed that they wouldn’t correct someone else even if they know they had said a word incorrectly.

To see more from Anglophile Korean Billy, take the pronunciation quiz and read more about Hyundai’s evolving brand by visiting: https:// www.hyundai.co.uk/ new-dawn.

Michelle Adams, Motability specialist.

How to Create an o utdoor Meditation r oo M

Meditation is a way to quiet your thoughts to tap into the creative force in your life.

It can refresh the mind, lift the spirits and help you feel more connected. Meditation can be as simple as sitting in a chair and quietly praying, or it can be as disciplined as Zen practices. However you meditate, having a space that’s set aside for that purpose is helpful. Given good weather, a place outside can be ideal. Find a quiet area that will allow you to feel peaceful and calm. A shady space is advisable. Before you do anything with the space, sit in it and check out how it looks,

sounds and feels. You want it to be out of the wind and quiet. If you like the space but find it a bit noisy, consider placing plants around it to help block out the sounds or playing soft music. A water feature can create soothing white noise. Define the area with a comfortable outdoor chair where you can read before praying, a woven mat where you can sit while you meditate or stretch when you’re finished, inspirational statuary, lanterns if you like to meditate in the

evening and a small storage chest where you can keep pillows to support your back, a blanket and your books. Arrange these items in a harmonious way with your plants and water feature. Choose colours that will enhance your

meditation. Soothing, cool colours such as light blues, greens and greys can ease you into meditation. Use these colours in your fabrics and accents. If you have a favourite item or picture that you use during your practice, put it in a prominent spot.

How To Transform Your ki T c H en w i TH ou T Breaking T H e Bank

As the promise of summer is on the not-so-distant horizon and we slowly but surely approach the spring, who wouldn’t want to bring some of that new life into the kitchen?

As the days are getting longer and the winter blues are becoming a faint memory, why not breathe some new life into your kitchen on a budget. Kitchen renovations don’t have to break the bank; even small changes can make a huge difference.

Add New Appliances Appliances can double as both functional pieces of tech and decorative accessories. There is a wealth of choice when it comes to kitchen appliances and there is something for you no matter what your budget is. An orange fridge might be too bold and too expensive for most, but why not mix it up with a cherry red kettle or a

cobalt blue toaster.

Mix Up Your Lighting

You would be surprised what a difference that changing you lighting can do to a space. Once again the sheer abundance of options online and in store allows every style and budget to be catered for.

You can easily transform the mood of your kitchen simply by adding or changing your light source, drawing attention to certain areas and avoiding others.

By simply avoiding the sterile bright lighting that is often used, you can create a moody, subdued style in your kitchen that will change the mood of everyone that enters.

Small changes here and

there such as these can make a huge difference to the look and feel of your kitchen. Upgrade Your Fixtures Get rid of those agebeaten handles and replace them with new, metallic fixtures to immediately upgrade your kitchen. Rust and damaged items such as handles can make your kitchen look far older than it should and changing these can be a cheap way of giving your kitchen that lift it so badly needs.

Rusty taps are yet another easy fix that can do wonders for your kitchen. It is far too easy to put this off but if replaced it can breathe new life into that kitchen and give it the fresh look

it deserves. Storage

All too often you can’t even appreciate the kitchen that you do have because every inch of the

surface is cluttered. This can be easily remedied with the proper use of storage. Once you are able to clear the space it will begin to feel larger,

brighter and more modern. Storage solutions can be found very easily through racks, baskets, hooks and magnets –they do not have to break

The Many Benefits of a Loft Conversion

Who wouldn’t like a little extra space in their house? Almost every household in the UK struggles to find the balance between storage and living space.

Amongst the various solutions to this very first world problem is a loft conversion – but why choose this ahead of moving house or building an extension?

Add Value to Your House

Property experts across the UK agree that a loft conversion will add value to your home and are seen as one of the best ways to invest in your house. Recent cases have shown that the value of a house can increase up to 20% once a loft conversion has been finished. Research

by Nationwide Building Society even went so far as to state that a loft conversion can increase the value of the average home by £37,000. No other home improvement costs so little and adds so much to your house.

Adding a Natural Source of Light

With the ever growing number of houses across the UK it comes as no surprise that more and more of us are finding our houses being left in the shade of our neighbours houses.

With the addition of a loft conversion which includes Velux windows, your home can once again be filled with natural light. These are much less likely to be blocked by other houses or tress on account of their height.

Loft conversions are therefore able to let the maximum amount of light into your home.

Saving Time and Money

Loft conversions offer by far the greatest value for money of any other home

improvement. The average extension only adds £16,000 to the value of your home and is often far more than this to complete. Loft conversions offer a greater value for money on a price per square meter basis than conventional extensions as a result of the original structure already being in place. They are also easier to attain planning permission for as they won’t block your neighbours light or overshadow adjacent properties. Loft conversions

can add another upstairs bedroom to your home, to achieve this same addition

with an extension, you will have to build two floors which will add to your price.

the bank.

Replace Your Counter-Top

If your budget permits, this can work wonders for transforming your kitchen and it is not always as expensive as you might think.

Laminate kitchen counter tops range in prices and could be that new addition that sparks life back into your kitchen. You might even be surprised by the options available, so why not have a look!

Easy Fix For Cabinets

One of the most common mistakes in kitchen design is using the wrong colour of paint from the

beginning. Picking too dark a tone will make the space feel small and absorb the natural light which will seriously affect the mood of the room. However, this is an easy fix. With a simple fresh coat of paint your kitchen can be transformed. Choosing a light, neutral tone such as white will make the room feel larger, brighter and more modern by reflecting the natural light.

Interior designers often suggest that removing cabinet doors to create open-plan shelving can really open a kitchen up and emphasise all the space you have.