Ards and North Down Borough Council is supporting a campaign to encourage all homes and businesses in the Borough to clearly display numbers on their doors, making it easier for emergency services to identify their location.
Every second counts during an emergency and the Ards and North Down Community Resuscitation Group is striving to ensure that houses and premises are numbered and clearly visible from the road. Emergency services responding to 999 calls can lose valuable time if numbers are not visible,
leading to potential lifethreatening delays.
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“Our Emergency Services need to get to 999 calls as quickly as possible. If a house does not have its name or number clearly displayed, this can cause a
potential life-threatening delay in reaching the patient. So it is vital that all properties display their name or number clearly and that it is visible from the road.”
To help emergency services, signs can be placed at the side of the house that faces the road, or if this is
too far away from the road, the number can be displayed on gateposts. Ideally the sign should be lit at night but where this isn’t possible, reflective house address signs are encouraged.
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Public Realm Scheme Supports Local Community
The Portaferry Public Realm Scheme is supporting the local community through the donation of wood to Portaferry Men’s Shed and through educational visits for schoolchildren.
As the Scheme nears the completion of its third phase, members of the Men’s Shed have been grateful recipients of the wooden crates that were used to transport materials to Portaferry. The group has created a variety of useful products using the donated crates, including artistic signage and a large train that has captured the imagination of local children.
Those children include the Year 6 students from St. Mary’s Primary School who enjoyed an educational visit to Market Square that was hosted by the appointed contractors for the works, Northstone Ltd. They gave the students an insight into the project before providing them with safety equipment ahead of some hands-on experience of laying cobbles and mixing up a batch of
tarmacadam.
The project will deliver environmental improvements to the core of Portaferry and support the regeneration of the local area with upgrades across several areas including Market Square, Castle Street, Ferry Street, High Street and Meeting House Street. The works include the widening of footpaths, improved street lighting, better pedestrian connectivity and a redesign of the car park within Market Square to create a usable civic space.
The Scheme commenced in October 2023 and is on schedule to complete later this year, marking a significant £2m investment in Portaferry. For more information, visit Portaferry Public Realm - Ards and North Down Borough Council
John Hanna (PSNI Neighbourhood Inspector); Jonathan Gamble (NIFRS District Commander); Councillor Alistair Cathcart (Mayor of Ards and North Down); Graeme Bannister (Chair of the Community Resuscitation Group); Michael Allen (NIAS).
Clean Sweep: Asda and Four G tidy up in NI
Newtownards, Bangor and Dundonald stores unite with Four G as part of Big Help Out
Asda colleagues from Newtownards, Bangor, and Dundonald teamed up with local charity
Four G, to host litter picks in the community.
The litter picks were organised as part of Asda’s official partnership with the ‘Big Help Out’ initiative, which sees thousands of organisations come together to help improve their local areas.
Four G is a Dundonald-based charity offering day opportunities services for young adults with severe learning difficulties, including a 5-day placement for young adults aged 19+.
Jonny Walker, Director of Services at Four G said:
“Four G does such important work with young adults, and it has been a great opportunity to build a special relationship with Asda over the years through our local community champion Sharon. The litter pick got us all out and about,
working together while keeping our local area clean.
We hope to work with the team again in the future!”
Sharon McBratney, Community Champion at Asda Dundonald said:
“The team at Four G have been just fantastic to work with, we were so pleased to collaborate with them to make a positive impact in our communities.
We had plenty of sunshine and laughs while cleaning up and gathered up quite a few bags of rubbish…a big thank you to everyone who came along!”
Ami Craig, Community Champion, Asda Bangor added:
“The Big Help Out is such a brilliant initiative and I’d really encourage everyone to check out volunteering opportunities in their
local community area and get involved. It’s a brilliant feeling to know that you’re making a difference in your local community.”
To find out more about the ‘Big Help Out’, as well as other local volunteering opportunities, customers can visit the community boards in Asda stores or download the ‘Big Help Out’ app.
ACE IN THE MAKING: TENNIS STAR SCORES £500 BURSARY
Sam Irwin, a tennis sensation from Helen’s Bay has been awarded a £500 bursary from Mary Peters Trust and Hughes Insurance. The bursary programme, now in its fourth year, is designed to support young athletes in reaching their full potential. Sam is ranked number one in Ireland in the under 12 category for tennis
Sam has achieved impressive results, including being ranked number one in Ireland in the under-12 category.
In the last three months
he has also secured his first European Tennis title in Cork, a national title in Dublin, Templeogue and the provincial Ulster match play competition.
Following another Irish title last weekend in Dublin. Carrickmineshe has been selected to represent Ireland in the European Summer Cup, taking place in Czech Republic in July.
His tennis journey began at a very young age, inspired from the pram watching his older brother learning to play at various grassroots coaching squads and at the local park courts with his dad - the same public courts in Bangor where Sam continues to be coached and develop his game.
He said, “My parents tell me that as soon as I could walk, I was itching to get involved and have a racquet in my hand. I can’t remember not playing tennis. It has allowed me to become closer with my family and given me the chance to make new friends outside of school, whether at local, provincial or national training squads or at international tournaments. I’ve spent time with players from different countries and backgrounds which has
been a fantastic experience.
“Last year, I lost a couple of tournaments back-to-back that I felt I should have won - which was tough - but it taught me to keep improving, learning and practicing. This bursary is a huge motivation for me as it recognises my effort and achievements in my short career so far and inspires me to keep pushing towards my dream of becoming a professional tennis player.”
Sam explains how the bursary will play a pivotal role in reaching his current goals. He adds, “I plan on using the bursary to add strength and condition training into my weekly programme, which will help prevent injury and also improve my speed, strength, and core stability. Tennis is physically demanding and requires a lot of skill,
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These can be purchased from local hardware stores.
focus and strategy - which I love. This extra strength and condition will help enhance my performance on the court, which will be useful when it comes to Ireland’s major national tournament - the Fitzwilliam event in August - which I hope to win.”
At just 11 years old, Sam has already shown remarkable dedication and talent in the sport of tennis as Lady Mary Peters explains. She said, “Our bursary, in partnership with Hughes Insurance, aims to support Sam as he prepares for upcoming competitions and continues his journey towards becoming a professional tennis player. Tennis, in particular, comes with high costs for coaching, equipment, and travel, making this support vital.
“Whilst the bursary offers financial support, it
also acknowledges each athlete’s dedication and accomplishments in their respective sports and in Sam’s case, his hard work and commitment to continuing to better himself at such a young age epitomises this. We are proud to continue helping young talents like Sam reach their full potential.”
Hughes Insurance has committed £20,000 over four years to the bursary programme as part of its Action for Impact initiative – designed to deliver on its Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) agenda in 2024 and beyond.
Emma Haughian, Senior Marketing Manager at Hughes Insurance said, “Supporting talents like Sam is a key part of our commitment to making a positive impact in our community. By continuing our partnership with
For those living in more rural locations, placing a number on a large stone on either side the laneway can be helpful. Houses can be named but legally, numbers must be displayed at all houses. They are vital in assisting emergency services respond quickly to emergencies. It could make the difference between life and death.
Mary Peters Trust, we aim to help more young talents overcome financial barriers and reach their full potential. Our dedication to social responsibility remains a top priority, ensuring that our efforts resonate with our staff, customers, and the broader community. We are delighted to support Sam as he gears up for his upcoming competitions, showcasing the incredible potential of young athletes in Northern Ireland.” Remaining bursary recipients will be announced throughout 2024. To keep up to date with the selection, follow Hughes Insurance on social media, @ hughesinsuranceni. For more information on Hughes Insurance visit hughesinsurance.co.uk and for more on the Mary Peters Trust, visit marypeterstrust.org
Michael Allen, representing the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, said: “Fewer than 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. This is why it is important to call 999, start CPR and get an ambulance there immediately. Each minute of delay reduces the probability of survival to hospital discharge by 10%.”
For more information, visit ardsandnorthdown.gov. uk.
(L-R) Lady Mary Peters, Emma Haughian of Hughes Insurance and Sam Irwin.
North Down community organisations receive funding from local retailer’s grant initiative
Two local organisations operating throughout North Down have received a £1,000 grant each from SPAR NI, as part of its Community Cashback Grant initiative.
Rosie’s Trust in Bangor and North Down & Ards
Women’s Aid are two of 20 recipients selected from over 900 applications that came from grassroots organisations, registered charities and community groups from across Northern Ireland.
Bronagh Luke from SPAR NI said it was a difficult task to whittle the final list down, with so many organisations in need in Northern Ireland.
Bronagh commented;
“We received 934 applications for our grant this year after announcing even more organisations and community groups in need could benefit. Usually, we spread the £20,000 out between five organisations, but with so many in need we decided this year to give £1,000 each to 20 recipients.
“So many applicants told us about their funding being cut and how great a need there was for their services in many communities in Northern Ireland. While a lot of our grant recipients are based in certain areas, they still provide invaluable support across the whole of the country, allowing them to help even more people, which is what this initiative is all about.”
Rosie’s Trust, which
has offices in both Bangor and Newtownabbey was established 10 years ago to help those going through health related problems with care for their pets. The grant will help the organisation cover the costs of recruiting and training 10 new volunteers, while also helping to reach even more isolated people experiencing health crises by funding digital advertising and printing posters for health centres.
North Down & Ards Women’s Aid works with women, children and young people who are affected by domestic and sexual abuse in the local area.
The grant will go towards helping the growing number of women seeking financial, budgeting and debt management support due to the cost of living crisis. Providing direct financial support by means of electricity, gas, oil and food vouchers means service users can reallocate their budgets to ensure rent and mortgages are paid, directly reducing the likelihood of becoming homeless.
There are over 300 SPAR stores in Northern Ireland, each acting as community hubs and are dedicated to supporting local charities and community groups, from hospice centres to
foodbanks, with store teams going beyond their roles in-store to engage and help their local communities thrive.
A recent survey from SPAR showed that Northern Ireland had the most community pride throughout the UK regions, with 83% of respondents either very or fairly proud of their local area, followed by London (75%) and Scotland (73%).
The survey also showed that those in Northern Ireland ‘feel like they are a part of their community’ the most, with over two thirds (61%) saying they strongly or somewhat agreed with the statement.
Team Leaders at SPAR Belfast Road, Nicole Weir and Abbie Paxton presenting £1,000 grant from SPAR NI to Nicola Flavelle, Children Services Manager at North Down & Ards Women’s Aid.
HEALTHY OCEANS HEALTHY MINDS RETURNS
Live Here Love Here’s Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds (HOHM) initiative, supported by the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, has returned for a fourth year to highlight the urgent need to address the impact of marine pollution. This year 60 events running throughout August will focus on celebrating Northern Ireland’s much-loved blue spaces and the positive mental health benefits of engaging with coastal and inland waterways.
Live Here Love Here and Belfast Harbour, which is now in its third year of sponsorship of the initiative, are inviting individuals, businesses, schools, and communities across North Down to participate. These events will include a litter pick and fun day at Groomsport Beach on August 3rd, vinyasa yoga at Helens Bay on August 4th, mindfulness and tai chi at Groomsport Boat House on August 8th, family beach yoga and wellbeing sessions at Ballyholme Beach on August 15th, plant discovery at Crawfordsburn Country Park on August 23rd t and many more activities to reconnect with our precious blue spaces and their impact on our well-being.
Ballyholme Post Office 99 Groomsport Road, Bangor, BT20 5NG
Crawfordsburn
.According to a 2021 report by the Mental Health Foundation, 65 per cent of adults in the UK reported improved mental health after spending time near water. Yet, the health of these precious waterways is increasingly threatened by pollution, particularly marine litter.
Building on success from previous years, Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds encourages everyone to explore, enjoy, and protect Northern Ireland’s coastal and inland waterways.
Kyleigh Lough, Chief Executive at Mae Murray Foundation said, “Research demonstrates
that spending time near water can significantly reduce stress levels and enhance mental well-being. Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds harnesses this power by inviting everyone, regardless of background or experience, to participate and experience firsthand the restorative effects of our coastal and inland waterways. From beach clean-ups and educational workshops on marine biodiversity to interactive exhibitions showcasing local conservation efforts, each aspect of this campaign is designed to inspire and empower participants who are passionate about
safeguarding our oceans.
We are delighted to host a litter pick and fun day including Beach Art by Carla Hodgkins Art and Beach Art Resources, and African Drumming by Wilson Magwere at Groomsport Beach on August 3 and hope people will join us.” For more information about Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds 2024, including event details and registration, please visit liveherelovehere.org. For more information on Mae Murray Foundation visit www. maemurrayfoundation. org.
Rangers Soccer Academy’s
Holiday Camp at Abbey Villa Football Club
North Down DUP MLA Stephen Dunne has called in at the Rangers Soccer Academy’s Holiday Camp at Abbey Villa Football Club in Millisle. Mr Dunne commented:
‘I was pleased to be able to support this well-attended Summer Holiday Camp organised by Rangers Soccer Academy at Abbey Villa Football Club in Millisle. These Summer Holiday Camps by Rangers Soccer Academy take place across the country during the summer and are a great opportunity for boys and girls to develop their football and teamwork skills in a relaxed and fun environment.
I would like to commend the staff from the Soccer Academy for their work in supporting the young people
Crawfordsburn Service Station 90 Ballyrobert Road, Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JS
Donaghadee Premier Store 1a Cannyreagh Road, Donaghadee, BT21 0AU
Holywood
Maxol Service Station Marino 96-100 Bangor Road, Holywood, BT18 0LR
Give it a Grow: Tackle
Biodiversity Loss and Go Peat Free
Ards and North Down Borough Council is encouraging residents and businesses to fight against biodiversity loss by using peat-free compost.
The Peat Free campaign was launched at Holywood’s Priory Integrated College, where staff and students have pledged to go peat free in their purpose-built horticultural facility. It was officially opened earlier this year and includes a 27ft polytunnel which houses raised beds for growing flowers and vegetables.
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“The facility at Priory Integrated College is very impressive and their pledge to going ‘peat free’ will hopefully inspire others to do the same. Peat compost has been used by gardeners and growers for decades but the enthusiasm to feed our own gardens is damaging our environment. Ards
and North Down Borough Council is already ‘peat free’ and this campaign will encourage others to help fight against biodiversity loss by using some of the excellent peat replacement products that are readily available.”
Peatlands form over millions of years,
providing a home to a variety of specially adapted plants and wildlife that could not survive anywhere else. Peatlands are a massive carbon store and provide a variety of benefits including water storage, the reduction of flood risk, and clean drinking water. There are many
great peat replacement products available such as wood bark, wood fibre, bracken, wool and green waste compost, so why not make a positive change for biodiversity and go Peat Free!
For more information, visit ardsandnorthdown. gov.uk/parks.
Ards and North Down Borough Council is encouraging everyone to use peat-free compost. Students at Priory Integrated College have pledged to go peat free.
a h elens Bay Dental Patient story!
Sharon said this “In December 2018 I visited Helens Bay Dental and met Glenda. I could say the rest is history but I really do want to say that it was the best decision of my life.
I had upper implants and extensive work done to my lower teeth. It has simply changed my life forever.
I now smile with confidence. I have been taught how to look after my teeth properly and look forward to my hygiene appointments. All the staff are simply amazing. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough!”
Helens Bay Dental have over 500 5 star reviews like this When people live with the problems that missing teeth can cause, like moving dentures, trouble speaking and not being able to eat what they choose it can be difficult to know
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Helens Bay Dental have been providing advice and forward-thinking Dental Implant solutions for more than 20 years Dental. Teeth scanning, 3D printing and same day teeth are all available
Dental Implants are a long-term solution and are the closest thing you can get to the look, feel and function of a natural tooth. They are fixed in place and will not move around like a denture which means that you can regain your confidence in eating and speaking Visit www. helensbaydental. co.uk read the reviews and book a
Stepping Out with EXCEL DANCE COMPANY
FOUNDED IN 2016, EXCEL DANCE COMPANY IS ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S MOST REPUTABLE DANCE AND PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS.
Under the direction of our Creative Directors, Lynda Spiers and Brooke Porter, all of our students receive first class training from highly experienced and qualified teachers in a safe and encouraging environment. All classes take place in our purpose-built studios in Newtownards.
EXCEL DANCE COMPANY IS REGISTERED WITH THE BRITISH THEATRE DANCE ASSOCIATION (BTDA) AND THE ASSOCIATED
BOARD OF DANCE (ABD). We offer graded examinations to all students in Classical Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Speech and Drama, Acrobatics, Lyrical, Contemporary and Musical Theatre.
STUDENTS WHO WISH TO COMPETE AND REPRESENT EXCEL DANCE COMPANY, HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME A PART OF OUR COMPETITION TROUPE. Competition work is offered in
all subjects. Excel Dance Company compete in many local and national competitions. We have also recently represented Northern Ireland at the Dance World Cup (2019, 2021 & 2024), receiving many top 6 world rankings and winning medals.
EXCEL DANCE COMPANY PRODUCE TWO ANNUAL SHOWCASES EACH YEAR, AT CHRISTMAS AND IN THE SPRING TERM. All students have the op-
portunity to participate in our showcases, building performance skills, teaching theatre etiquette and enhancing confidence. We pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking dance company. Whether training for fun, or in preparation for a career in the performing arts, everyone really does EXCEL. Registration is now open for September 2024. Please get in touch today or visit us online www.exceldancecompany.co.uk
‘From En E my to
Ally;
how th E pin E m A rt E n is A iding th E surviv A l
o F th E r E d
squirr
E l.’
Our native red squirrels have been in decline for many years, but the good news is that they’ve been making a bit of a comeback over the last few years.
For which we, and they, must thank one of their top predators, a small mammal that likes nothing better to eat than a squirrel.
The reds’ decline was not just because of habitat loss such as commercial forestry, but the arrival in the 19th century of the American grey squirrel, a deliberately introduced alien species, which is now the dominant squirrel in Britain and Ireland. Not only are the greys bigger and better able to out-compete the reds for food, they have a particularly deadly weapon, a virus called squirrel pox to which they are immune, but which is lethal to the reds. In such a one-sided competition, no wonder the reds retreated west and north.
But in Ireland about 20 years ago, naturalists noted that the greys were starting to retreat, albeit slowly, west to east, with reds replacing them, and concluded that the cause was their top predator, the pine marten.
Pine martens are related to stoats, about the size of a small cat, with a long fluffy tail. They eat a lot of
berries and other fruit, but also small rodents, birds, insects…and squirrels, if they can catch them. They were nearly extinct in Ireland because of habitat loss and particularly hunting, poisoning and persecution, and confined to a few places in the west and south, but were saved by legal protection in 1976, and have slowly been
recolonising and effectively driving back the alien greys.
A recent study in Scotland has confirmed this trend. Where there are martens, reds can co-exist with them by modifying their behaviour, because they evolved together in forests and woodland, but the greys, which have only been here a relatively short time, lack those instincts, but have
learned that martens are a real threat, and are in retreat. This is a tale about the damage done by the introduction, deliberate or otherwise, of alien species, but also about how the natives can fight back if given the opportunity, yet another example of the ageold connectedness of our natural world.
JVA
Shirley & Teds Takeaway, Bangor’s newest eatery is NOW OPEN!
Shirley and Ted’s Takeaway opened earlier this summer at 76 High Street, Bangor! The first class fryer is named in honour of the owners relatives.
Manager Heather Williamson said:
“The name Shirley & Teds came about from one owners granny and the others father in law. They are sadly no longer with us. We thought it would be a great tribute to two very special people who meant so much to us!” While the market for eateries is plentiful in Bangor – the owners spotted an opportunity to provide a a
“One shop for all” offering traditional chippy teas alongside kebabs and pizza cooked in a stone oven! All created using fresh locally sourced ingredients where possible!
Heather said: “We have spent the last six months totally gutting out and refurbishing the shop to a high standard.” Shirlley & Teds Takeaway also offers food delivery
Danske Bank extends Ulster Rugby Schools’ sponsorship
Danske Bank has today announced the renewal of its Ulster Rugby Schools’ sponsorship for another three years, reaffirming its commitment to helping young people to thrive through sport.
The new sponsorship deal will see Danske Bank continue its partnership and investment in the Boys Schools’ Cup, Girls Schools’ Cup, High Schools’ Cup, Medallion Shield, U16 Cup, alongside other competitions.
The Danske Bank Schools’ Cup is the world’s second oldest rugby competition, after the Hospitals Cup, having been competed for every year since 1876. It is run by Ulster Rugby, and has been sponsored by Danske Bank since 2005.
off in September, with the traditional Schools’ Cup St Patrick’s Day Final at Kingspan Stadium – one of the great occasions in the local rugby calendar.
As Danske Bank celebrates its 200-year anniversary, the bank continues to place supporting communities at the heart of its business and has long-term sponsorships in place to support youth sport across rugby, football and Gaelic football and hurling.
to Bangor, Bangor West, Newtownards, Ballyholme, Doniaghadee, Millisle & Crawfordsburn. Order online at www. Shirleyandteds.co.uk
As well as the flagship Schools’ Cup competitions, Danske Bank support will also include continued sponsorship of the Schools’ Subsidiary Shield, Bowl, Trophy, Medallion Plate, Medallion Bowl, Medallion Trophy - along with the 2nd XV Cup and 3rd XV Cup, and their respective subsidiary competitions. The competitions kick
Keith Shorten, Head of Commercial, Ulster Rugby, said: “We are delighted that Danske Bank has chosen to continue its longterm support for schools’ rugby across the province. Hundreds of girls and boys are able to compete every season, with many of our Senior players, including Ireland internationals India Daley and Stuart McCloskey, first making a
name for themselves in a schools’ competition.
“Danske Bank exemplify the positive impact that a sponsor of our grassroots game can have in the local community.
As well as supporting the ambitions of schools’ players hoping to play the game at the highest level, their investment in the sport also creates the opportunity for young people to develop a lifelong love of sport and staying active, which brings immeasurable health and well-being benefits at all ages.
“We look forward to continuing on with our successful partnership in the years to come.”
Keith Shorten, Head of Commercial at Ulster Rugby and Phil Smyth, Managing Director of Commercial Development at Danske Bank, pictured at Kingspan Stadium with the renowned Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup trophy.
Stena Line lays keel for Stena Futura - the first of its new Belfast-Heysham ships
Swedish ferry company, Stena Line has reached an important milestone in its fleet investment programme with the keel laying of the first ‘NewMax’ vessel which will be deployed on the Belfast-Heysham route. The ship has also been officially named ‘Stena Futura.’
The keel laying ceremony of the first of the two new ‘NewMax’ hybrid vessels recently took place in China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in WeiHai, China. Stena Futura, the chosen name for the vessel, is one of two ‘NewMax’ hybrid vessels being built to run on methanol. The new vessels will significantly enhance freight capacity on the
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Belfast-Heysham route.
A priority during the construction of the vessels will be to provide built-in technologies that can take advantage of both battery propulsion and shore power, where available. The ships will be futureproofed with a progressive propulsion configuration that will ultimately allow the vessels to be decarbonised.
Stena Line is currently working with port partners, Peel Ports and Belfast Harbour to secure the smooth introduction of the vessel as well the provision of shore infrastructure needed to provide additional electrical capacity to enable the future goal of powering the new ships by shore power.
“Stena Line is committed to taking responsibility and being part of the solution to climate change. Investing in new ships, prepared to run on alternative fuels as well as electricity, is an important part of our strategy of moving towards new sustainable fuels and setting new industry standards.”
The keel-laying of the second of the two NewMax vessels is planned for this autumn and the name of that vessel has yet to be revealed and its due to come into service in early 2026.
“Keel laying marks a significant milestone in the construction of our new hybrid ships for the Belfast – Heysham route and we are delighted to announce its name – Stena Futura. As demand for freight across the Irish Sea continues to grow, the increase in capacity will be universally welcomed by hauliers and exporters.” says Paul Grant, Trade Director Irish Sea, Stena Line.
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Murdock Builders Merchants: Your Self-Build Partner at Belfast 2024
The Selfbuild Live Belfast 2024 event is a must-attend for anyone embarking on a self-build project.
This year, Murdock Builders Merchants is offering an exclusive £200 credit to inperson attendees.
Known for their extensive range of building materials and excellent customer service, Murdock Builders Merchants will be on hand to provide expert advice and solutions tailored to your specific needs.
This offer can significantly reduce your initial costs and ensure you start your project with highquality materials. Attendees also receive a complimentary Selfbuild magazine pack.
Secure your free tickets using the promo code ‘WEB’ and visit Selfbuild Live Belfast 2024 for more details.
Planning your dream kitchen
How to plan a kitchen layout. Aesthetics aside (for now!), let’s look at some of the key recommendations for planning a kitchen layout that’ll give you ultimate functionality.
The work triangle. This is perhaps the most important factor to consider in your kitchen layout. The ‘work triangle’ is the positioning of your oven, fridge, and sink, which are the three most commonly used items in the kitchen. It’s impractical and dangerous to carry pans of hot water the length of the kitchen to drain pasta or vegetables, for example.
As a general rule, aim for no more than a step and half in distance between the three points of your ‘work triangle’, i.e. your oven, fridge, and sink. It’s useful to have a work surface to put things on next to the fridge/freezer and the hob/oven (making sure the latter is heatproof).
coats, shoes, and bags. This could be a bench and storage in a specific section of the kitchen, or a mudroom or utility if you have the space.
Avoid positioning the oven right next to a wall or tall cupboard – it’s best to have some free space either side for comfortable working. Don’t forget electrical sockets. You want at least one double socket for every 1.5m of wall space, plus sockets at floor level for the vacuum, for example. How will you use the space? There’s a reason why the kitchen is affectionately known as ‘the heart of the home’. People naturally gravitate to the kitchen and it can often be one of the busiest areas of the house. Avoid the daily chaos sweeping through the kitchen with some clever planning. Create a dedicated area before you enter the kitchen for items such as
Perfect positioning. Make sure the primary passageway through the kitchen is unobstructed, i.e. that the oven or dishwasher doesn’t open into this space. Passageways need to be wide enough to stand and open the doors of appliances.
If planning a kitchen island, make sure it doesn’t block the area in front of your main appliances, leaving enough room to open the appliance doors and pass by. If work surfaces are opposite each other, plan enough space between them so that two people can work comfortably at the same time.
Kitchen designers will often place the sink first and design the rest of the kitchen layout from there.
Whether it’s for food prep or clearing up, the sink is a wellused space within the kitchen. The ideal spot? Place it with a view, either by a window, or facing into the room, on a kitchen island, for example. It’s generally more cost effective, and easier to install a proper ventilation system, if the oven is placed on an exterior wall. Maximise the available space. When planning your kitchen layout, think about the storage you’ll need and where this will be. With some imagination and creativity, your kitchen walls can be cleverly transformed into a range of different storage solutions.
Wall cabinets are a traditional solution for storing crockery and food, with glassfronted cabinets for housing glassware.
Pantry storage is becoming increasingly
popular to hide away small appliances such as the coffee machine and toaster, baking accessories, and dry food items
Open shelves, wall hooks, and overhead racks for saucepans can add to the kitchen’s overall aesthetic Need help visualising your plans? Hiring an experienced kitchen designer will make your life easier in planning your dream space.
A kitchen renovation project can range in price depending on the scope of the work, the complexity of the design, and the finishes you choose.
A budget renovation could cost in the region of £6,000, while a fully bespoke kitchen could cost up to £35,000. It’s crucial to set a budget to keep your project on track. Make a list of everything you’ll need for your renovation: Start from the top down, including
lighting, paint, splashbacks, window dressings, cabinets and shelves, worktops, sink, taps, appliances, and flooring Include the cost of labour for any items that’ll require it.
For more information see https://www. checkatrade.com/ blog/planning-guides/ kitchen-renovationproject/
Lawn mowing tips: How to make your grass L ook great
Mowing is the key to a neat, healthy lawn. And it’s an essential job for the summer months. The best way to encourage healthy, lush grass is by regularly mowing your lawn. Each cut helps keep a lawn neat and encourages denser turf. Mowing also blocks out weeds and makes the grass more hardwearing.
During the growing season, mowing the lawn can take up quite a lot of time. That’s why it’s so important you know how to cut grass the right way. In this post, we’ll guide you through how to mow a lawn and some useful grass cutting tips to make sure every last detail is covered.
Read on for the best lawn mowing tips and tricks.
1. Get your mower serviced regularly. Getting
your mower serviced at the start of every growing season is important to ensure a clean, quality cut. Chipped or blunt blades will bruise the grass and cause a silver sheen or frayed look to the lawn. Also, don’t forget to clean out your mower regularly to avoid a build-up of clippings.
2. Know how often to mow. How often you mow depends on the style of lawn you want, weather conditions and the speed your grass is growing. Here’s some grass cutting advice: The more frequently you mow, the denser your lawn will be In early spring, grass needs cutting less frequently as it grows more slowly
at this time of year. Cut fortnightly until the weather warms up in late spring Lawns need cutting weekly in late spring and summer. You may even need to mow twice weekly when growth rates peak in late spring If you mow less frequently you’ll break the ‘one third rule’ as you’ll have to cut off more than a third of the grass height to keep it looking neat . Milder winters mean lawns may benefit from occasional mowing between late autumn and early spring. Let your new lawn grow to 5cm (2in) tall before mowing for the first time. Choose the highest blade setting so the mower doesn’t get choked with clippings. If
the grass is really long, you may need to strim it first dry shady areas under trees may need less frequent mowing than areas in full sun with good
moisture levels 3. Get the
of the key grass cutting tips to a lush lawn is knowing what height to leave the grass. Most lawn grass is
best kept at 2.5cm – 4cm tall. Leave it a little longer in patches that get more wear and are heavily used, say 4cm – 5cm. In the shade, you could leave it
still longer, at 7cm-8cm.
4. Adjust the cutting height.Cutting the grass at the correct height will help your lawn stay dense and healthy.
To do this, you’ll need to adjust the mower’s cutting height to suit the weather and season. The mower should be on the highest setting for the year’s first cut. After that, aim to keep grass around 4cm tall in spring, autumn, and winter, and about 2.5cm in summer. If it’s a hot summer, it’s a good idea to raise the cutting height of your mower blades to leave the lawn longer. This will make it less prone to going brown in dry weather. The longer grass also retains extra moisture, helping to keep the lawn
green and offering shade to the soil.
5. Mow in fine weather.
Avoid mowing your lawn when it is wet, or temperatures are too cold. If you cut the grass when the ground is soaked, the mower will smear the soil and grass clippings will clump together. Mowing should wait until frosts have passed. With milder winters and the grass continuing to grow all year, many of us are now cutting our lawns all year round to some degree. Alternatively hire a professional gardener to cut your grass! For more information see: https://www. checkatrade.com/ blog/expert-advice/ lawn-mowing-tips/
grass height right. One
Tileworks, expertise and a passion for design
Tileworks is a family run business in Bangor, Co Down. We have been helping all our lovely customers to budget, plan, design and install their dream bathrooms since our establishment in 2010. Whether that be something reserved and traditional or something more adventurous we have it all, and everything in between.
At Tileworks we have an expertise and passion for design, while still being practical and turning your dreams into reality. Our in-house self-confessed computer geek, Nick loves the challenge of creating perfection when it comes to the virtual experience, a service we offer at Tileworks. Nick can design your space the way you want, creating amazing photorealistic images of your project using Virtual World’s Design Software. This means you can see what your room will look like before you commit to order. This also allows you the full virtual experience of
standing in your new room before you even start any work.
At Tileworks, we want to make your project as smooth sailing as possible, with customer service being our main ethos. We can provide tiles, sanitaryware, bathroom furniture, brassware and accessories for every taste palette and budget. We are a one stop shop for all your needs. We pride ourselves on providing quality, value, and real honest customer service, because “Quality isn’t expensive, it’s priceless…”
So, whether your project is a refurbishment, a new build, or simply fixing some broken tiles on your doorstep, we are here to help
you, every step of the way. We have a list of recommended fitters whose work has been given the Tileworks seal of approval. This ensures your project is fitted to the highest of standards. We are here to help, all our staff have a vast experience in the tile, bathroom, and luxury vinyl flooring sectors. If we don’t know it, it’s not worth knowing.
Claire Whyte Architect has been designing bespoke buildings for over 20 years.
Current and past projects include one-off house designs, extensions and refurbishments as well as housing & apartment developments and commercial design.
Working from her Comber studio at Mount Alexander, in a bright, lofty workspace designed to animate and inspire, CWA continues to focus on client-centred, contemporary, thoughtful design that is respectful of place and purpose.
Claire takes the time to listen, working alongside clients to develop a strong project brief before finding innovative, cost effective solutions that best meet your requirements.
Time and again the Comber architect is reassured to receive feedback from clients who welcome the transparency of her approach to the design process, the willingness to listen and ability to transform their ideas into reality whilst always keeping them informed of progress. Every project is equally important no matter the scale or budget and is developed in phases, beginning
with an initial meeting prior to Claire’s appointment. A scheme then proceeds through appraisal and if required a dimensional survey, before developing into concept sketches.
CWA will prepare planning and building control applications and can provide tendering and contract administration, tailored to suit
respective clients.
Should you require a feasibility study, concept sketches, or if you would prefer CWA to take control of a full build for you, a bespoke service can be tailored to meet every client’s needs.
If you are looking for an Architect to begin your adventure, please contact Claire.
Insp I r I ng bedroom floor I ng
I deas
If you’re looking for practical, stylish, durable, and cost-effective flooring solutions, you’re in the right place.
Practical bedroom carpet ideas. Carpet is one of the most common
choices when it comes to bedroom floor ideas. It’s cosy underfoot, has good
insulating properties, and is available in many different styles
and colours. For a kid’s bedroom in particular –where little ones play on the floor – carpet is the most comfortable option.
Versatile bedroom carpet ideas. Grey carpet provides a neutral, calm backdrop that works with an array of different paint colours. So if you redecorate your bedroom in the future or make a quick update with a feature wall, you know your grey flooring is likely to match.
Bedroom wood flooring ideas. Wood floor is timeless – it will never go out of fashion. It’s also the most hypoallergenic bedroom flooring, making it ideal for people with allergies.
Dark wood floor bedroom ideas. Earthy, natural tones are trendy bedroom floor ideas for 2024, making a dark wood floor a great choice. Dark wood floors work particularly well in men’s bedrooms or in Japandistyle rooms, offset with lighter, neutral tones on the walls.
Herringbone bedroom floor ideas. Wood flooring laid in a herringbone pattern adds interest and texture to a room and can even help
to create the illusion of more space. Incredibly versatile, herringbone wood flooring works equally well with a muted palette of neutrals or a bolder choice. Laminate bedroom flooring ideas. The great thing about laminate flooring is its ability to mimic more expensive natural stone or wood at a fraction of the cost. This makes it a brilliant option for homeowners wanting cheap flooring ideas for bedrooms that still look great.
Grey laminate flooring in a bedroom. If you weren’t already sold on laminate flooring, consider going grey. Its versatility shines through in this image, where it’s teamed with muted shades. However, it would work equally well as a foundation colour in a bedroom that’s decorated in bold hues. Cheap flooring ideas for bedrooms .Vinyl flooring is resistant to stains, rips, tears, damage, and water penetration. It’s also incredibly cost-effective.
We love the variety of colours and styles, allowing you to match up your flooring to your bedroom decor.
LVT bedroom flooring ideas LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) or LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring options are quick and easy to install, using a click-and-lock system over the top of your floor’s sublayer. It’s a great way to add pattern and interest to a bedroom if you’re feeling bold. Bamboo. Bamboo flooring is an ecofriendly and sustainable option that’s growing in popularity due to its strength, durability, and attractiveness. If you are keen on incorporating this eco-friendly flooring in your home, look for an FSC certification or other certifications such as the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
Tiled bedroom floor.
Tiled bedroom flooring looks particularly elegant in a vintage-style bedroom. Teamed with underfloor heating or some bedside rugs, floor tiles are synonymous with charming country cottage or farmhouse styles. And the best part is, they’re a great investment – lasting much longer than carpets. Concrete bedroom flooring. It may not be the first material that comes to mind when you think of bedroom flooring ideas, but many homeowners are installing concrete flooring for a contemporary look. Paired with underfloor heating and of course, a cosy rug to step out of bed onto, concrete flooring creates a slick, modern vibe in any room. https://www. checkatrade. com/blog/ideas/ bedroom-flooring-ideas/
Inter I or des I gn
I deas to l I ve by
There are so many beautiful interiors out there, how on earth do you choose?
The good news is that there are generally no right or wrong choices with interior design. Sure, there are some rules to guide you, but your home interior should be a reflection of the needs and likes of you and your family.
Step one – form and function. The first stage of planning your home interior is finding the balance between how you want your home to look and feel and what you need it to provide for you and your family. So, as well as thinking about how different home interior designs make you feel and which styles you’re drawn to, consider how you use the rooms in your home and what’s important to you. For example, if you enjoy hosting friends and family, it makes sense to design spaces that will easily accommodate visitors. If clutter makes you twitch, make storage a priority, and if self-care is important, why not create an indulgent spa bathroom? Take the time to consider the history of your home and how this might impact your style choices. Edwardian house interior design ideas, with
their large windows and wide hallways, will differ from those for a new build property, for example. One of the final points to bear in mind is flow. Unless you’re designing a studio apartment, you’ll create a more cohesive feel in your home if you think about the flow from room to room when making your design choices.
Step two – room layout. First of all, consider the function of the room to give it a clear purpose. It’s entirely possible to use one room for more than one purpose, but aim to ‘zone’ the room into different areas when planning the layout. In addition to furniture and lighting ensure there’s enough space to comfortably move around the room –’empty’ space is key to help increase the feeling of spaciousness.
Step three – colour scheme. Now it’s time to add your personality to the space. With lots of inspiration out there, it can be hard to know how to narrow down your choices. Start with a mood board. You can either do this the old-fashioned way, cutting out images from
magazines, or use an app such as Pinterest. Colourdrenching, neutrals, or feature walls; your mood board will help to steer you in the right direction. By putting together the images you’re drawn to, you’ll begin to gather a clearer picture of the styles, features, and colours that you like.
Mcdonald’s £1 million make-over at Connswater restaurant.
The McDonald’s restaurant in Connswater, east Belfast, has reopened following a £1 million refurbishment project.
The significant investment in the new-look restaurant is set to create more than 20 additional jobs over the coming months, bringing the total number of employees at the restaurant to 180.
Connswater is the first restaurant in Northern Ireland to invest in McDonald’s newest restaurant upgrade programme, which is seeing the brand shake up the way its stores across the UK and Ireland operate.
Step four – lighting. Do not underestimate the importance of good lighting when planning your house interior ideas. Many experts agree that it’s best to have between five and seven different lighting sources in each room. For overall lighting (general lighting), consider
recessed ceiling spotlights. For task lighting, you might opt for a desk lamp or a reading lamp by an armchair. Spot lighting can be used to illuminate items in a cabinet or a piece of wall art, whereas atmospheric lighting could be a dimmable lamp or some string lights. The right combination of these varieties of lights in a room will help to create a warm, homely (and functional!) space. Always use a qualified electrician for your lighting installations. Step five – Finishing touches . Taking inspiration from your mood board, opt for
accessories, decorative touches, soft furnishings, and artwork that align with the concepts you were drawn to, helping to add all-important accent colours. Remember to include mirrors and plants within your interior design ideas. Hanging a mirror is not only a practical addition, but it opens up the room, creating the illusion of more space. Plants can bring energy and life to your design scheme alongside health benefits and a pop of colour too.
For more information see https://www.checkatrade. com/blog/ideas/ interior-design-ideas/
The upgraded restaurant design has been developed to reflect the variety in ordering methods, as well as keep pace with customer expectations now and in the future.
Upgrades to the restaurant at Connswater Shopping Centre and Retail Park will include a dedicated courier waiting area and a new kitchen design with a bigger order assembly area, helping to deliver a seamless, faster and more efficient experience for customers, couriers and crew.
With the rise in deliveries, the restaurant will now have a separate ‘McDelivery only’ area, which will allow delivery drivers to access a dedicated courier entrance and service seating area. This will enable delivery drivers to collect orders more efficiently, reduce
congestion in the dining area and give walk-in takeaway and dining customers more space.
A new kitchen design will see a bigger order assembly area that will allow extra capacity for crew to undertake more orders and serve more quickly than ever before. Improvements have also been made to the crew member room to create a more relaxing and comfortable space for employees.
The Connswater restaurant is led by Franchisee Paul Connan, who also operates the McDonald’s restaurants in Donegall Place, Boucher
Road and Ballygomartin.
“At McDonald’s, we are passionate about feeding and fostering communities, and we are looking forward to welcoming our customers back to the new and improved Connswater restaurant following this extensive six-week refurbishment programme, so they can experience the new changes first-hand,” Paul said.
“Our job is to ensure that every experience is a great one for customers, delivery partners and crew. These upgrades will help us deliver a quicker, more seamless and more convenient experience for all.”
(L-R) is Katrina Fox, Franchisee Supervisor; Suleimi Amma, Crew Member; Neal Hunter, Business Manager; Paul Connan, Franchisee; and Michael Kirk, Senior Shift Manager, McDonald’s Connswater.
El E vat E your walls with th E s
on-tr E nd wallpap E r id E as
Wanting to incorporate wallpaper into your home but not sure how?
We’ve got some new and exciting ideas to inspire.
If you’re embarking on a room renovation and want to add some colour, pattern or that extra wow-factor, wallpaper can do just that. With most elements of interiors, wallpaper trends come and go, but we’ve put together the top trends that should give you some food for thought when planning your next
decorating project
Ombre wallpaper. A hot trend right now is ombre wallpaper. This started with an ombre painting technique that became extremely popular, however, it can be quite tricky to create. Opting for ombre wallpaper is a great alternative as it creates the same effect with less hassle and there is less technique required – you just need to
make sure the sheets are lined up properly… maybe we’ve made that sound easier than it actually is! If in doubt, find a local expert who will hang your wallpaper straight!
Botanical wallpaper. Bringing the outside in is a big part of how we choose to decorate nowadays. It is proven that incorporating plants and botanical elements in your home can
uplift your mood and make you feel more connected and relaxed. Hanging botanical print wallpaper is an effective way of doing this. Botanical prints include banana leaf plants, dramatic florals and jungle-themed designs. Go bold with a wallpaper mural. This is one solid design that fits over an entire wall. It definitely makes a statement and is
for the brave decorators and homeowners amongst us. Popular mural designs include various landscapes, such as a mountain range, jungle or forest.
Monochrome wallpaper. Colour might not be your thing, and that’s fine, monochrome is definitely having a moment in 2024.
A monochrome design could be spots, stripes, or a geometric pattern… the possibilities are endless.
Monochrome wallpapers are a lovely option for a modern industrial home.
Large scale prints. When choosing your wallpaper design for your next decorating project, try to go for a large-scale print.
Small, ditsy designs can be jarring for the eye and
can look a bit muddled. Instead, large prints make a statement and create a more coherent look.
Striped wallpaper. Stripes never go out of fashion and 2024 is no exception. Incorporating striped wallpaper into your living room or bedroom scheme will look fun and modern.
We suggest keeping this to one wall because if you wallpapered the whole room it might be a little bit disorientating!
70s throwback. The 70s are back! Retro wallpaper designs are definitely on the hot list right now. Rusty reds, mustards and navy blues are a true 70s colour palette and look amazing printed onto
wallpaper. If you want to add a dose of retro charm to your home, then a 70s inspired wallpaper is a fantastic design decision.
Vintage Art Deco
Wallpaper is a popular choice for vintage-inspired homes as it can easily transport you to a different era. If this speaks to your
interior style, choose designs with traditional Art
Deco geometric shapes.
Add that extra dose of glamour by picking a design that is embossed with gold detailing.
Aricle used courtesy of https://www.checkatrade. com/blog/ideas/ wallpaper-ideas/
Plan your garden redesign this autumn!
The opportunity to redesign your garden gives you the chance to create your dream outdoor space, complementing both your home decor and your personal style.
But while garden redesign is an exciting project, it does require careful planning and consideration.
Before you launch your garden redesign project, it’s essential to spend some time planning the various elements!
1. Purpose and function. How do you want to use your garden? Do you want it to be a space for entertaining guests, a peaceful retreat, or a play area for the children? Answering these questions
will help to shape the layout and the features that are important to include in your garden. For example: If you want your garden to be an entertaining space, consider where the dining area should be. This could be influenced by the position of the evening sun, making it an ideal spot for some outdoor furniture Perhaps you want to create an outdoor kitchen or a BBQ area. If so, where would be the most convenient place to build it? Near the kitchen
to avoid traipsing up and down the garden with plates of food, perhaps Want to enjoy a morning coffee in the sunshine? Check the position of the morning sun and plan the optimal position for some garden seating 2. Site analysis. As with any renovation, it’s essential to spend time in the space to understand it better, noting: Where the sun hits your garden at different times of the day What type of soil you have and how well
it drains Existing plants or structures you want to keep Whether there are any elements you can recycle or repurpose This will not only help when planning your layout and hard landscaping, but also the best type of plants to include too.
3. Budget If you’ve watched garden redesign programmes on TV, you’ll appreciate it’s possible to redesign your garden for just a few hundred pounds or to ramp the budget up to tens of thousands of pounds. It’s therefore important to decide on your budget at the start of the project. Depending on what you want to include in your plans, this may need to cover hard landscaping materials, any labour costs, plants, and outdoor furniture.
4. Style and themes. With various different garden styles and themes, there’s limitless scope to create your ideal sanctuary. From contemporary to minimalist, cottage to tropical, there’s a vast array of options to choose from. But how do you narrow your choices down? Create a mood board of gardens you’re drawn to, collecting ideas and design elements in one place. This helps to define your visual concept . Visit local gardens to identify plants you like, taking inspiration from their landscaping too Look through gardening magazines to identify your favourite themes and styles Of course, you can also book a consultation with an experienced landscape gardener or garden designer to help plan your new outdoor space. For more guidance and inspiration see www.checkatrade.com/ blog/planning-guides/ redesign-garden/
VAUXHALL OFFERS
CUSTOMERS 50,000 TESCO CLUBCARD POINTS WITH NEW CAR PURCHASE
Vauxhall is extending its partnership with Tesco by offering customers the chance to collect 50,000 Tesco Clubcard points when purchasing a new car with a Vauxhall UK retailer.
The offer marks the launch of Vauxhall as Tesco’s latest Clubcard Points Partner and runs until the end of the year. Shoppers can exchange the 50,000 Clubcard points for £500 in Clubcard vouchers to be used in store or get 2x their value with more than 100 Clubcard Reward Partners, giving them £1,000 of value. The offer follows the launch of Vauxhall’s partnership with Tesco earlier this year, allowing new electric vehicle customers to benefit from one years’ free EV charging credit to use at Tesco stores nationwide. Powered by leading provider Pod Point, Tesco has 2,700 charge points across 619 stores nationwide making it the UK’s largest supermarket charging network, with a mix of 7kW, 22kW, 50kW and 75kW charging stations.
Garolla Doors: Quality Craftsmanship and Unrivalled Service
At Garolla, we believe in delivering the perfect door for your home, crafted right here in the UK, and at the right price. What sets Garolla apart?
Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. As the UK’s number one for electric garage doors, we have earned our reputation through relentless dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction.
The Garolla Installation Service
But it’s not just about quality craftsmanship –it’s also about exceptional service.
door to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for space-saving solutions, enhanced security, or superior insulation.
Transform your garage with Garolla, the UK’s number one recommended electric garage door provider. Contact us today to book a free a survey and discover how
Garolla can enhance your home. With our five-year warranty and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can be confident that you’re making the right choice with Garolla.
Call us on 028 9246
0041 the Garolla family today and see why over 100,000 homeowners across the UK trust us to enhance their homes.
Vauxhall’s partnership with Tesco comes as part
James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall is always looking for ways to both reward and support our customers and we are delighted to be able to bring this incredible offer to them through the Tesco Clubcard scheme. “What is particularly exciting for us, is that for our new electric vehicle (EV) customers, we can now not only reward them for their purchase of a new EV, but also provide the incentive of one year’s free EV charging credit. We are dedicated to helping drivers make the switch to electric and we hope this offering, along with our latest PCP offers on the new Corsa Electric YES Edition and Mokka Electric Griffin will support even more motorists wanting to take the leap and experience the advantages of EVs for themselves.”
of its Electric Streets of Britain initiative, which was introduced to address the lack of on-street charging provision in the UK. It came after exclusive research revealed over 70% of UK councils surveyed did not have a published strategy in place for residential on-street charging for electric vehicles, and that 69% of local authorities had yet to install any onstreet chargers. Through Electric Streets of Britain, Vauxhall is working with leading charging operators Char.gy, Connected Kerb
and SureCharge to help improve Local Authority understanding of residential on-street charging needs.
UK motorists who want to have on-street residential EV chargers installed near them can register their interest at www.electricstreets.co.uk.
The information in this new national database will then help councils across the UK to determine where best to focus their investment and help as many people as possible to make the switch to electric.
For more information see www.ballyrobert.co.uk
Built to Last in the Heart of Yorkshire
Our doors are meticulously crafted in our Yorkshire-based factory from durable aluminium and highdensity polyurethane. This robust construction ensures they withstand the test of time, making them ideal for the rigors of everyday life. Each door is powder-coated in a choice of colours and finishes, offering enhanced weather protection and allowing for customisation to match your home’s unique style.
With Garolla, you can trust that the same local engineer who conducts your initial survey will also install your door, ensuring consistency and peace of mind throughout the process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Why Choose Garolla?
Choosing Garolla means investing in quality, durability, and style. Our doors are engineered to last, crafted from the finest materials, and installed with precision. With our extensive product range, you can find the perfect
Insp I r I ng conservatory I deas
Whether you’re building a new conservatory or looking to give your current conservatory a little TLC, get inspired for your next project with a mix of these fun and unique ideas!
Text When it comes to conservatory ideas, it’s all about the ambience and elegance. How they look and feel is what makes them so popular. Not only are they cheaper than extensions, but they also add value to your home and connect you to your garden. With the wide range of conservatories available, choosing the right one for your home can feel overwhelming. However, despite what the internet will have you believe, it requires only a few considerations. Questions to ask yourself include: What square footage am I working with? Which conservatory design will fit in with the style of my house? How do I want to use my conservatory? (i.e. For dining, sunbathing, botany, or reading etc.)
Once you’ve answered these questions, it’s just a matter of choosing your design and deciding how
best to decorate it.
Glass extensions
Glass extensions are a sleek and effortless way to upgrade your conservatory. Not only do they invite lots of light and warmth into your home, but they also work with almost any brickwork or cladding design. Double glazing and integrated doors offer a seamless transition into your garden, while landscaping your outdoor space gives you something beautiful to look at on a rainy day. An orangery
Bringing nature indoors with tall parlour palms and hanging baskets full of Mandevilla (‘Rocktrumpet’) is ideal. Better yet, if you’re opting for an orangery, the world is your botanical oyster. For a fragrant oasis, attach Bougainvillea and Jasminum azoricum to trellises; decorate tables with Stephanotis floribunda-filled pots, and place giant Phoenix
palms in lonely corners.
Succulent popularity is spiking in the world of interior design. If you’re less green-fingered than the average gardener, having a selection of cacti displayed in terrariums, vases, and/ or refined concrete pots is a (literally) effortless way of
modernising your space.
A coloured conservatory
Have you been searching for conservatory colour ideas? Teal is a multifaceted colour available in a spectrum of shades – from pale celeste and aquamarine to rich evergreen and ocean blue. Choosing the right
shade for your conservatory is just a matter of light. The brighter the room, the darker you can get away with. That said, to maintain balance, we suggest you stick to the middle of the palette.
A contemporary dining area
A great way to utilise your
modern conservatory is to turn it into a garden dining room. Think quintessential picnics with jute decor and polished brass place settings. You can either design a more formal dining area by sticking with a traditional dining table and chairs or opt for something
a little more sociable and choose benches and relaxed floor seating.
Small conservatory ideas.
Stackable furniture. When it comes to decorating a small conservatory, maximising your space and working with the light is essential. Stackable rattan furniture is perfect for keeping things neat and compact.
Bring the outdoors in.
Bring nature inside with faux fur rugs, woven Scandinavian baskets and a hanging chair or two. They take up less space than sofas or tables and are great for unwinding after a long day.
A natural sanctuary.
Turning your small conservatory into a natural sanctuary is a great use of space. Conservatory ideas for small spaces include using slimline furniture and potted plants that work well together, leaving you to inject colour with accessories such as
accent chairs, floor lamps, and cushions. Perfect for enjoying a Sunday afternoon reading or taking a restorative nap while rain patters on the rooftop.
Multifunctional furniture.
Whether you turn your small conservatory into a kitchen, dining room, reading nook, home garden, or zen retreat, there are several space-saving designs that can help make the most of your space. Think stackable coffee tables, fitted pantry shelves, L-shaped window benches, and foldaway furniture.
Finish the look with decorative cushions, throws, and plants. Built-in storage and corner shelves keep your conservatory floor clutter-free and roomy. Pick a rug for the perfect finish and get ready to enjoy a minimalist environment! Information used courtesy of https://www. checkatrade.com/blog/ideas/ conservatory-ideas/
Cream living room ideas for paired-ba C k elegan C e
Looking for versatile cream living room ideas? If you’re a discerning designer (or want to be one), you know neutral tones offer the perfect canvas for creating tasteful and warm aesthetics
Cream living room ideas are upmarket and stylish when applied using the right techniques. For example, a balance of accessories, textures, accent colours, and plants will transform any space – taking it from drab to fab! Cream also lets you switch up your style whenever you want, making it a versatile base note for you to build upon. Whether it’s hygge or Scandi, minimalism or organic modern.
Embrace Scandistyle cream living room ideas. When Hygee meets Scandi, they create the
ultimate comfort zone. With warm features, fluffy textures, and plenty of light, cream undertones create serenity and simplicity. For effortless luxury, keep the accessories and furniture in the realm of neutral decor. Examples such as the wood-weaved pendant light, slatted room divider, high-pile rug, and thick-knit throw are nice ways to add class and warmth. Include plants in your cream living room décor. Cream is the perfect shade for bright and airy homes. So, why not extend the theme by introducing lots of lung-loving houseplants? With biophilic trends on the rise, it’s the
perfect opportunity to turn your living room into a plant nursery. Furthermore,
if you’re a city dweller living in an apartment, introducing a perennial or two to your decor is one of the best ways to improve your home’s air quality.
Turn Your Garden Into A Summer Paradise
Breathing some new life into your garden or outdoor space can be exactly what you need to convert your home into a summer paradise.
From colourful and exotic plants to new garden furniture; there are many things that you can do to renovate your garden into a living space to be proud of.
Re-designing your garden is an exciting prospect that offers a wide range of possibilities to homeowners.
Modern landscape gardeners are capable of transforming even the most neglected of spaces into an easily maintained Mediterranean heaven.
Firstly, you must consider the plot that you are working with. Does your property frame the space? Where does the garden catch the sun? What level of maintenance do you
wish to work with?
All of these factors are amongst those that must be taken into consideration in order to optimise your outdoor area. When it comes to landscape gardening, research is of paramount
importance. If working with a small space, the subtle use of mirrors, metals and light coloured paints can create an expansive feeling throughout the garden. The addition of new garden furniture can also be exactly what is
Add a colour pop to your modern cream living room. Thankfully, there isn’t a colour known to humanity that doesn’t work well with cream.
For an organic modern design, add some burnt orange, rich browns, and lighttoned woods to your decor. Organic modern design is all about layering neutral textiles and textures to create maximum interest.
The aim is to create a polished yet casual atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. What colour goes with a cream sofa in a living room?
For those who’ve braved a cream sofa in their living room, accessorising it with the right colour is a matter of preference. If your home is a sanctuary filled with all things muted and tranquil, keep your accessories on the same shade spectrum. However, if you’d like to add some boldness and fun, choose patterns for interest or a block colour for a two-toned effect.
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required to modernise the space. Bright coloured sheds; tables and chairs can reflect the natural light and create an atmosphere
Whilst your budget is often the ultimate limitation on what you can achieve through this
renovation project, it is well worth hiring professionals to ensure that it is done to the highest possible quality. Qualified gardeners will have the experience and skill to foresee and avoid possible problems in the planning and construction process. One of the simplest and most effective ways of transforming your outside space is
through the addition of plants. A varied selection of flowers, trees and shrubs can create year-round interest that you will never bore of. The inclusion of Petunia’s, Marigold’s, Daylilies and Dahlia’s will bring a great deal of vibrancy throughout the summer months whilst Aster’s and Carnations will provide colour year-round.
