South Side Advertiser 171

Discover a treasure trove of family fun at Belfast m aritime f estival

Belfast’s rich maritime history and spirit of innovation will take centre stage with a host of free family activities on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September.

The Belfast Maritime Festival will take place along the city’s Maritime Mile, with activities stretching across Queen’s Quay to HMS Caroline in the Titanic Quarter.

Visitors can enjoy nautical-themed fun from

South Belfast Chef wins Top Culinary Competition

Talented local chef, Gareth Crawford, wowed judges with an extraordinary display of culinary excellence.

The Belfast-based Cú restaurant chef went headto-head with Wine & Brine’s Conor Ryan and Dan Welker from James Street South who finished in second and third place respectively. The three talented local chefs had successfully fought off competition from over 24 aspiring chefs from across the island of Ireland in a series of culinary challenges to earn their place in the Grand Finale at the Balmoral Hotel in Belfast.

Each of the finalists had to impress the esteemed judges in an intense culinary battle of skill, passion, and creativity with the talented chefs carefully crafting their signature three-course menu aimed at showcasing their distinct cooking styles. Gareth Crawford’s three-course menu dazzled the judging panel of Michelin star chef, Danni Barry, 2023 Great British Menu contestant, Kerry Roper, and BBC’s

Farm to Feast judge, Joris Minne, with his culinary artistry using subtle barbecue influences. His Starter featured Pan-Roasted Cod with velvety curry corn velouté, carrot purée, and crispy skin drizzled with dill oil. For his Main course, Gareth prepared his exquisite Ex-Dairy BBQ Cote de Boeuf with fondant potatoes, BBQ hispi cabbage, glazed king oyster mushrooms, and chimichurri gravy. His delectable Dessert was a Strawberry Parfait with Creme Fraiche Sorbet, macerated strawberries, strawberry gel, and a delicate chocolate tuile. Gareth was crowned “Ireland’s Next Top Chef” and will get the chance to select an all-expenses paid mentorship to cook and train with a leading culinary team at a prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London, Liath in Dublin or Muddlers Club in Belfast.

11am each day, including live music and pop-up performances, street entertainers and the colourful Belfast Bazaar, featuring the very best local produce and crafts.

The first ever ‘Science

Street’ on Titanic Slipways will host an array of fun interactive activities, demonstrations and live shows exploring topics such as navigation, marine biology, climate change and biodiversity. Whether

you’re a seasoned science enthusiast or a curious learner, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Continued on page 4

Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Ryan Murphy got on board with festivities to launch the action packed Belfast Maritime Festival which takes place in September

Sensational summer of fundraising thanks to generous shoppers and show-goers

Shoppers across Northern Ireland kicked off a sensational summer of fundraising when they supported their local SPAR stores’ Blooming Great Summer Fundraisers for Marie Curie, digging deep and donating over £55,000 for the charity.

Over one weekend in June, stores operating across Northern Ireland held various tea parties, coffee mornings, fancy dress days and fun days for their shoppers, all in the name of raising vital funds for the charity which provides end of life care for thousands across the country.

It came hot on the heels of a successful Balmoral Show, where show-goers donated over £26,700 for both Marie Curie and Cancer Fund for Children. Earlier in the year, store activity around the charity’s annual Great Daffodil Appeal raised almost £16,000.

So far this year, SPAR NI store teams and shoppers have raised an incredible £98,396 for their charity partner, and £798,717 since the partnership began in 2017.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group, which owns SPAR in Northern Ireland commented; “We have had an exceptional first half of the year, dedicated to raising vital funds for our charity partner which does so

much for so many in our communities. Our key events, from the Great Daffodil Appeal to Balmoral Show and the Blooming Great Summer Fundraisers, show there is an army of staff and shoppers willing to go the extra mile for our charity partners, and I want to thank each and every one for making 2023 such a successful year of fundraising already.”

SPAR NI now looks forward to supporting Marie Curie on the annual Twilight Walk, which takes place on Friday

29th September at Shaw’s Bridge in Belfast, as the charity marks its 75th anniversary this year.

Participants can either take part in the main event or organise their own walk by registering online.

Conor O’Kane, Senior Partnership Manager at Marie Curie, added;

“From the big events to the everyday donations at the till, SPAR NI has been one of our most active and dedicated partners since 2017. Their creativity and commitment to our key fundraising moments throughout the year give

us so many opportunities to help those in the local community who need a community nurse for a night, or to provide even more care from our Belfast hospice.

“We’re so grateful for the donations received by the stores and their shoppers which will go towards Marie Curie’s direct nursing care as well as our information and support services and our helpline 0800 090 2309.”

For more on SPAR NI’s partnership with Marie Curie, visit spar-ni.co.uk/ marie-curie.

Belfast woman inspired B y grandmother to launch revolutionary medical dermatology B usiness

Pragya Sharma has drawn on her passion for medicine and biochemistry to launch her business venture Gran Lab, thanks to the help of 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 (20142020) programme and the 11 councils.

Inspired by her grandmother who suffered from psoriasis, Pragya recognised a gap in the market for potent steroidfree treatments which would revolutionise the lives of those suffering from skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Gran Lab specialises in making steroidfree, colour-inclusive formulations to treat the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema.

Having recently submitted her PhD thesis in biochemistry, alongside running Gran Lab, Pragya was also named as a 2023 30 Under 30 entrepreneur in Northern Ireland.

Pragya launched Gran Lab after taking part in the Go For It programme

Continued from page 1

Pick up your FREE copy at:

BT6

Hamilton News 7

Greenway, Belfast, BT6

0DJ

Spar 117 Ravenhill

Road, Belfast, BT6 8DR

BT7

Co-Op 390 Ormeau

Road, Belfast, BT7 3HX

Spar 154 Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 2EB

Rosetta Service

Station 569 Ormeau

Road, Belfast, BT7 3JB

Mace 443 Ormeau

Road, Belfast, BT7 3GQ

Centra 345-349 Ormeau

Road, Belfast, BT7 3EL

BT8

Belvoir News 6 Drumart

Square, Belfast, BT8

Carryduff Vivo 30

Hillsborough Road, Carryduff, BT8 8HS

Centra 636 Saintfield

Road, Belfast, BT8 8BT

Martins Carryduff

Centra Saintfield Road, Carryduff, BT8

Spar Maxol 60 Old

Milltown Road, Belfast, BT8 7SW

Spar 146 Ballynahinch

Road, Carryduff, BT8 8DN

BT9

McGoverans Centra

66/70 Strandmillis Road, BT9 5AD

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.

Pragya said: “The Go For It programme was such a fantastic source of support for me. Together with my business advisor, we worked on a business plan and it has been the most valuable aspect of the programme.

“The business plan has acted like a set of steppingstones for my venture. It really made me think about all the different components required to effectively run a business. I thought about who my competitors are, what parameters I should be comparing my product to, what finances I need and

The youngest crew members will love the hands-on activities delivered by Wee Critters and Mini Explorers over at the Kids’ Zone at Queen’s Quay, while a flotilla of vessels and ships will dock at Queen’s Quay and Belfast Harbour Marina, where visitors can hop on board to meet the crew and experience life at sea.

The visiting ships will include Granuaile (Irish Lights), Leader, Brian Boru and La Malouine. A diverse music programme, featuring over 40 leading musicians from across NI, will take place in outdoor venues across the Maritime Mile, celebrating homegrown talents and marking Belfast’s status as a UNESCO City of Music. Featuring Americana, trad, jazz, opera, bluegrass, classical, indie

so much more. It really opened my mind to what the business is and what it entails to make it a success.”

Melanie Fitzpatrick, Business Advisor at Ormeau Business Park said: “Pragya had a clear vision for Gran Lab and together, we created a comprehensive business

and folk artists, highlights will include the Maritime Festival Showcase on Saturday 9 September, with four leading singersongwriters and NI Music Prize winners, premieres especially commissioned for the festival, new collaborations and a 30-piece brass band. Then, on Sunday 10 September, come and experience the power of 25 opera voices performing much-loved classic works together, presented by the awardwinning Northern Ireland Opera.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “I’m really excited by what’s on offer at this year’s Belfast Maritime Festival - always a very popular event with local families, as well as visitors travelling into Belfast to enjoy what’s on offer.

“The diverse line-up of free events and activities really brings our

plan outlining the steps to make her vision a reality.

“We set achievable goals and milestones for the future, and I offered advice in areas such as financial planning, sales and marketing strategies and legal requirements - all essential aspects in establishing a successful business.

maritime and industrial heritage to life, while the sight of ships docking along the spectacular Maritime Mile is always something to be enjoyed.

“The addition of ‘Science Street’ offers visitors the chance to celebrate Belfast’s spirit of innovation and will inspire future generations to explore more, while there’s so many opportunities to enjoy the very best of our local talent, through live music and street theatre performances, great food and handcrafted products at the Belfast Bazaar.

“I’d encourage everyone to put Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September in their diaries and get on board for a weekend of fun!”

The Belfast Maritime Festival has been organised by Belfast City Council and is supported by Tourism NI, delivered in partnership with

“I wish Pragya all the very best for the future, and I look forward to witnessing the success of Gran Lab!”

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.

Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast Harbour, Odyssey Trust, the Department for Communities and Titanic Quarter Ltd.

Aine Kearney, Director of Events at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to support the return of the Belfast Maritime Festival, a much-needed postpandemic boost to the wider tourism and hospitality industry with a projected economic benefit of circa £1.5 million.

“The event is a great opportunity to showcase this key Titanic and Maritime Belfast heritage destination and its wealth of visitor experiences. This immersive event will further awaken the giant spirit in our visitors, igniting their sense of discovery and demonstrating the warm welcome Northern Ireland offers to all.”

Visitors attending the Belfast Maritime Festival are encouraged to walk, cycle or take public transport to reach the event activities.

Walk or cycle along the quaysides all the way to HMS Caroline. Cycle parking is available outside Titanic Belfast and there are also Belfast Bike docks at the SSE Arena and SS Nomadic.

You can also hop on the Glider from Belfast city centre directly to the Titanic Quarter or travel by train to Titanic Quarter Halt.

For more event information, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/ maritime

Statue of anti-slavery campaigner Frederick

Douglass unveiled in Belfast

A striking bronze statue of author, anti-slavery campaigner and early champion of women’s rights Frederick Douglass has been unveiled in Belfast city centre. Douglass was a former slave who became a national leader of the abolitionist movement in America. He first visited Belfast in 1845 at the invitation of the Belfast Anti-Slavery Society and returned for a second visit in 1846.

The life-size statue was created by renowned Scottish figurative sculptors

Alan Beattie Herriot and Hector Guest. It is located beside the historic First Presbyterian Church in Rosemary Street where Douglass delivered lectures during his time in Belfast. The project is funded by Belfast City Council and the Department for Communities.

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “Frederick Douglass was an inspirational leader best known for his anti-slavery writings and campaigning, but he was also an early champion of women’s rights and many of his values and beliefs are as relevant today as they were in the nineteenth century.

“I’m honoured to be involved in the unveiling of a statue recognising his impact. This will help people’s understanding of

the positive, progressive role he played in the city’s early development. It is also very fitting that it is located in Rosemary Street close to where he delivered some of his inspirational speeches.”

Anna Slevin from the Department for Communities said: “The Department remains committed to the development of villages, towns and cities across Northern Ireland through initiatives which promote urban renewal and develop

public spaces.

“This landmark statue of Frederick Douglass is commendable for many reasons. It ties together the past, present and future of Belfast, while recognising the role this city played in global events as it served as a platform for historical figures. Alongside its historical significance, this statue is very much a creative endeavour which enhances this part of Belfast by adding an artistic flourish to the streetscape.

“I am pleased to acknowledge the Department for Community’s contribution and commend the efforts of all those involved in making this statue a reality.”

Artist Alan Beattie Herriot said: “I was delighted to be commissioned to produce this memorial to Frederick Douglass; a man whose extraordinary oratory abilities allowed him to champion the fight to abolish slavery.”

NI Water a ppo IN ts s pec I al I st ‘ oN e t eam’ For e xte N s I ve Upgrade o F Bel F ast Waste W ater t reatme N t Works

NI Water has successfully achieved a key milestone with the appointment of the delivery team for the significant upgrade of Belfast Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW), as part of the Living With Water in Belfast Plan.

The ECI (Early Contractor Involvement) contract for the major project has been awarded to an integrated team comprising Kier-Bam (civil contractor), Stantec (civil engineering design consultant) and MWH Treatment (process contractor).

Making the

announcement, Sara Venning, NI Water’s CEO said: “NI Water is delighted to drive forward its elements of the ambitious Living With Water in Belfast Plan with the appointment of this specialist team for the extensive upgrade of Belfast WwTW, which is

located in Duncrue.

“These industry experts, who have many years’ experience in the water sector worldwide, will work collaboratively under an ECI contract with NI Water and our local project management consultants, McAdam Design, as ‘One Team’ to develop a sustainable and robust solution that will ensure the works can help support a growing economy for decades to come. Following the successful completion of the important ECI phase in 2024, it is intended that the Phase 1 construction will get underway, subject to planning.”

Phase 1 will comprise a six-year programme of work as part of the Living with Water in Belfast Plan. It follows a recently completed Phase 0 interim upgrade, which included the construction of two new treatment tanks that have a volume equivalent to six Olympic-size swimming pools.

Speaking about the next phase of work, Sara continued: “The integrated team is

currently working through an optioneering exercise to develop the most cost-effective and efficient designs, which will centre on the re-use of most of the existing assets within the confines of the existing site.

“These designs will more than double the capacity of the original treatment works and ensure the city’s wastewater treatment needs are met well into the future. Members of Belfast WwTW One Team will liaise with the relevant authorities and

local community on the project and any planning requirements going forward.”

The Belfast WwTW upgrade – which is due to get underway mid 2024forms an integral part of the Living with Water in Belfast Plan, which aims to deliver a long-term approach to drainage and wastewater management that will help protect the community from flooding, provide a cleaner and greener environment and ensure Belfast remains open for business and investment.

Adrian Black, NI Water’s Project Manager for Belfast WwTW added: “Due to constraints in investment over the past 20 years, many parts of the wastewater and drainage infrastructure serving greater Belfast are now having to operate at or over their original design capacity. Belfast WwTW plays a crucial role in supporting the city’s

myriad of businesses and households on a daily basis and NI Water has been working hard to ensure that current Northern Ireland Environment Agency standards can be met.

“This major project will safeguard the future operation of the treatment plant, ensuring that Belfast WwTW can support a healthy environment, improve water quality in the River Lagan and Belfast Lough and sustain a growing economy. The upgraded treatment plant will also support the development of much-needed homes and help boost job creation within the construction industry.

“As we move forward with developing designs for the WwTW improvements, we will work closely with the local community and other stakeholders ahead of work commencing at the Duncrue site in mid-2024.”

Belfast #CircleCity campaign launches with new colourful bins to boost recycling on-the-go

Belfast City Council has recently joined environmental charity, Hubbub to launch Belfast #CircleCity, a new on-the-go recycling initiative that is being rolled out in Belfast city centre, made possible with funding from The Coca-Cola Foundation.

Bright colourful bins have been installed in Belfast city centre as well as a number of public parks.

The three-month trial will make it as easy as possible for residents and visitors to recycle plastic bottles and cans and therefore improve recycling rates. The initiative comes as plans are advanced to introduce a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in Northern Ireland.

As part of the initiative, 25 new recycling bins are located in the vicinity of City Hall, Donegal Place, Corn Market and four public parks; the Botanic Gardens, Victoria Park, Waterworks Park and Falls Park which all attract a wide range of residents and visitors, including families, cyclists and walkers, to encourage them to recycle on-the-go.

To keep contamination to a minimum, people are being urged to put items like coffee cups, dog waste and crisp packets in the general waste section of the bin and to think “if in doubt, leave it out”.

Belfast #CircleCity follows on from similar successful pilot projects since 2018 including Dublin, Leeds and the

London borough of Lambeth. Across the previous pilot projects, over 2.5 million plastic and glass bottles and cans were collected and recycled. In the recent campaign in Lambeth, the campaign saw a 70% reduction in contamination (i.e. nonrecyclable material in the recycling bins), whilst increasing the quantity of recycling by 140% and the new campaign in Belfast hopes to boost recycling and also reduce contamination.

On-the-go waste continues to be a significant problem for authorities.

It is estimated that 9 in 10 of us recycle at home compared to 4 in 10 who recycle on-the-go while the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) estimate that Northern Ireland consumers use 420m plastic bottles and 90m cans every year. That means millions are either landfilled, incinerated or littered.

Cllr Micky Murray, Chair of the People and Communities Committee, Belfast City Council, said: “I’m delighted to be launching the #CircleCity campaign in Belfast

which will help us all to recycle while shopping or visiting the city centre. As a council, our aim is to increase our recycling rates across the city year on year. Each plastic bottle and can that finds its way into the new recycling bins will help contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable and circular Belfast. It’s great to have the support of Hubbub and The Coca–Cola Foundation to really help push forward this positive initiative and bring the campaign to life. I’m confident that the Belfast #CircleCity campaign will make it easier for people to recycle on-the-go.”

Belfast City Council will be working with Hubbub to measure the impact and effectiveness of the new bins. The results and learnings from Belfast #CircleCity will contribute to providing renewed insight to the Hubbub #InTheLoop toolkit, an indepth guide on how to roll out successful recyclingon-the-go, to benefit other interested local authorities and organisations who can access the learnings and downloadable assets for free.

For more information www.belfastcirclecity. co.uk, or contact intheloop@hubbub.org.uk.

A Community of Rooks

Rooks are worth crowing about, writes JV Allister.

This bird is only as successful as its community. I like members of the crow family; their intelligence and adaptability has underpinned their success as species, and rooks are possibly the most successful because they live in close-knit

communities.

Granted, they’re not pretty….but that large beak, designed for stabbing for prey, is very effective…. and although not as colourful as the shy jay or the in-your-face magpie, in certain light their black feathers are iridescent. But then looks, or

singing ability, are not everything.

They live in communities, colonies if you like, roosting together, nesting together, because as we all know there’s safety in numbers.

You will seldom see one feeding on its own, and indeed group feeding in a field or on my lawn ensures that all areas are explored for insects, leatherjackets and other invertebrates, as they strut around like ancient soldiers armed with a blade.

Their nest sites, high in a stand of tall trees, are of course called rookeries, but their communal roosts are known as

‘parliaments’; perhaps their incessant cawing and calling was thought to resemble the noise made by MPs in the House of Commons. And that cawing and almost constant noisemaking, their communications with others, may be critical.

Beginning in 1927, the famous zoologist, Konrad Lorenz, studied a group of jackdaws (rook cousins), and eventually was able to understand many of their calls, to go off to feed, to return to their roost, to court and particularly to convey control, or leadership, by the dominant birds. Given

that rooks are much noisier than jackdaws, it seems likely that they’re even better at communicating. There is no doubt that rooks rapidly pass on information about new locations

of discovered food to one another, and they also have a hierarchy, a pecking order, which plays an important part in their lives.

In their roosts, the elders claim the best protected positions,

while juveniles make do with exposed outer branches, and it is thought that this is where the information-exchange takes place, bird to bird, branch to branch. When I was a

kid, being called ‘birdbrain’ was an insult. Because of what we’re starting to understand about rooks, and indeed other smart birds, it may be more of a compliment. JVA

Nigel Smith Dentistry has been shortlisted for the prestigious Irish Dentistry Awards 2023!

The Irish Dentistry Awards are now in their 11th year, and are well known in Ireland for celebrating the hard work and achievements of dental professionals across the nation.

The Irish Dentistry Awards are judged by a team of dental leaders and industry experts, which means they are unmatched in their clinical and technical merit.

The practice has been shortlisted in no fewer than 3 categories including: Most Improved Practice This category celebrates those who have seen significant changes or upgrades covering decor, equipment, and or/ improved business growth, patient referrals and developed a great team approach!

Best High Technology Practice

This category is designed to recognise practices embracing the latest digital technologies available to improve clinical outcome AND will recognise the

practice using digital workflows to provide the highest levels of patient care.

Practice of the Year! This is a regionally judged award, looking to reward those practices that stand out from the crowd, those who truly care for the patients and are dedicated to providing the best in oral healthcare.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Saturday 9 September at the beautiful Clontarf Castle in Dublin. The ceremony has fully established itself as a prestigious occasion, recognising and rewarding clinical excellence throughout Ireland!

Check out their websites below to see recent smile transformations in your area!

Recovery signs for Northern Ireland tourism

figures show there were more than 512,000 rooms and 941,000 beds sold in guesthouses, guest accommodation and B&Bs last year in Northern Ireland.

an 8 percentage point increase in peak occupancy, compared to 2021.

compared to pre-pandemic levels.

In total, there were more than 2.1m rooms and 3.7m beds sold in hotels in 2022. The figures, while still slightly down on 2019, show signs of a stronger than expected recovery. In addition, the NISRA

Compared to 2021, this represents a 67% increase in room sales and a 70% increase in bed sales.

Furthermore, self-catering occupancy also saw positive performance in 2022 with a 10 percentage point increase in annual occupancy and

During 2022, 62% of annual weeks were sold to visitors from outside of Northern Ireland. This is compared to 69% in 2019, reflecting the downturn of out of state visitors.

During 2022 the percentage of annual weeks sold to Republic of Ireland visitors was 10%, a 2 percentage point increase,

The number of weeks sold to Northern Ireland residents increased from 31% in 2019 to 38% in 2022.

Excluding country parks, parks, forests and gardens, Titanic Belfast was Northern Ireland’s most visited attraction last year followed by the Derry Walls and the Giant’s Causeway. Both Titanic Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway

showed significant growth on 2021 figures with an increase of 173% and 298% respectively.

The number of hotel rooms sold in Northern Ireland last year rose by 62% on the previous 12 months, new figures have revealed. Statistics released by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) also show the number of beds sold in Northern Ireland 2022 rose by 43%.

However, these have not yet recovered to prepandemic 2019 levels, with cost of living and inflation also playing a significant role in lifestyle spendability.

Commenting on the figures, John McGrillen, CEO of Tourism Northern Ireland, said:

“The latest NISRA tourism statistics represent a comprehensive insight into the recovery of our industry across a number of sectors. Northern Ireland’s attraction sector was severely impacted by the pandemic, and the significant reduction in overseas visitors, but signs of recovery are evident in the survey findings”.

“I am also encouraged by the fact that the hotel

Football coming home in South Belfast as Linfield Football Club grows

David Graham is the current general manager of Linfield Football Club having replaced Pat Fenlon in November 2022. The 36 year old has outlined his ambitions to grow Linfield, both on and off the field.

He told EDA Media;

“We already have the best academy in NI. We regularly send graduates to England and Scotland with five former players in the NI squad. At Linfield, we expect to win. Players, staff and fans are united in the demand for success. We have made several key signings and hope that [new signing] Matthew Fitzpatrick will score goals – he is a much needed addition to the squad.” Before coming to Linfield Graham served previously as a Special

Adviser at Stormont, Senior Parliamentary Aide at Westminster and then Director of communications at Rangers Football Club.

So far Graham is enjoying the challenges of his new role. He says: “No two days are the same. There is plenty of variety in the role. Aspects include football administration, building commercial partnerships and revenue, financial analysis as well as leading on the strategic direction of the club.”

Linfield have won 56 League titles since 1886, a world record.

David says: “Windsor

Park is shared with the National team so we are very blessed to have a newly re-laid pitch and excellent training facilities as well as plans for an extended academy. We have also recently appointed a new social media and marketing officer who is driving

our brand forward. We are currently undertaking a digital transformation and hope to see this reap rewards for our business and to the benefit of club supporters.”

Linfield Football Club was founded in 1886 as Linfield Athletic Club and in 1905 moved into their

current home of Windsor Park. The club’s badge displays Windsor Castle, in reference to the ground’s namesake. Linfield Football Club provide

individual hospitality packages as well as group bookings. Please contact the club so that they can cater for your individual needs.

sector performed better than anticipated in 2022. Despite the impact of the Omicron variant in the early months of the year, hotel occupancy rates got close to pre-pandemic levels, while sales didn’t quite meet those achieved in 2019.

“Our guesthouses, guest accommodation and B&Bs had a very positive 2022, with figures indicating that this sector is further along in its recovery than the hotel

sector.

2022 was also a strong year for the self-catering sector, with annual and peak occupancy exceeding prepandemic levels in 2019, and increases evident for the proportion of weeks sold to island of Ireland residents”. For a full breakdown of the latest NISRA statistics please visit; Tourism Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra. gov.uk)

Air Ambulance NI tasked on 3656 missions in 6 years

It has been 6 years since the air ambulance first flew over the province, with the Helicopter Emergency Medical Team (HEMS) providing urgent pre-hospital medical care at scene to critically ill patients when the worst has happened. During that time HEMS has been tasked on 3656 occasions, on average responding to two incidents every single day.

One such patient was Danny Byrne who was just 12 when he was involved in a serious road traffic collision while cycling home from his local shop in Warrenpoint, Co. Down almost a year ago. Danny had broken his femur in his right leg, damaged nerves in his left arm and had severe facial injuries.

The HEMS team treated Danny and brought him to hospital where he had 6-hours of surgery, followed by extensive physio.

Danny’s mum Denise reflects on the aftermath of her son’s accident, “Danny had 5 days in hospital and a good six months of recovery before he got the all -clear. We cannot thank

air ambulance enough for their help that day. If it wasn’t for their quick response and turnaround, Danny’s recovery could have been a lot worse.”

The service operates 365 days of the year for 12 hours per day and the aircraft can get to the furthest locations in NI from its airbase in Lisburn in approximately 25 minutes.

HEMS Clinical Lead, Doctor Darren Monaghan said: “The strong partnership of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Air Ambulance Northern NI allows the HEMS team provide Pre Hospital Critical across Northern Ireland. This aim of this service is to ensure

patients, who are critically injured or ill, receive optimal care before they reach hospital.

From a Trauma perspective, we find that approximately one third of the incidents the HEMS team are called to involve road traffic collisions. HEMS also attends patients who have been injured as a result of serious falls, workplace accidents, and farm or sports related incidents.

HEMS can also be dispatched by NIAS Ambulance Control to patients who have unfortunately suffered a Cardiac Arrest in the community.”

As a local charity, Air Ambulance NI aspires to

All’s well when the lawn’s well.

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

raise £2.5million each year to maintain and sustain this service so public donations are crucial.

During the current cost of living crisis, the charity has seen an increase to its running costs with its daily fundraising target rising from £5,500 to £6,850. The charity is

encouraging support now to contribute to the annual £2.5m fundraising need. One simple way to support is by becoming a member and donating a little each month. There is a membership scheme for adults, called Club AANI and children called Junior Club AANI, everyone attends an annual BBQ and registration is available at airambulanceni.org/clubaani-membership/. The charity is also organising a range of events including a skydive on 9th September, Dragon Boat Racing on 15th September, an abseil at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, on 8th October, and an abseil at Belfast Castle on Sunday 10th December 2023. Please see airambulanceni.org/ upcoming-events/ for more information.

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, weedfree 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.

Light up your home for autumn at Arches Lighting Centre

With over 40 years of lighting expertise, as well as the most diverse range of domestic lighting available on display in Belfast, Arches Lighting Centre is your goto lighting destination.

With a desire to keep up with the current trends in lighting and interior design, they are constantly adding products to the already incredible range of lighting products on display, check out their amazing array of chandeliersguaranteed to bring magic and life to your home this Autumn and beyond.

As well as being able to see their beautiful lighting range you will also receive amazing one on one service from their staff in the showroom, they have an endless offering of lighting products at very competitive prices and are committed to working with you to get the right

lights for your home.

Their new website lists a vast selection of ceiling and wall lighting from highly decorative crystal pieces to the more on trend industrial and modern LED fittings.

As well as light fittings, Arches Lighting Centre also stocks the widest range of light bulbs available. They have and endless selection of the new LED filament bulbs in a variety of sizes and finishes as well as the older and harder to find incandescent lamps of yester year.

They really do have everything covered as far as lighting goes. So, if you are in the market for new

Ways to add instant appeal to your home

Front Door Makeover: Potential home buyers and even house guests can spend a lot of time at the front door while awaiting access.

lights, or you are just curious about what is popular then please drop in to our showroom at 16-22 Upper Newtownards Rd,

Belfast, BT4 3EL or check out our website - www. archeslightingcentre.co.uk hopefully we will see you soon!

A fresh coat of paint or a new door can make a big difference in their first impression of your home. Keeping door furniture such as a doorbell, letterbox, door knocker or even your security camera clean and free of cobwebs can make a big difference. Got a separate mailbox? Make sure it is pristine and fully functional. Give the front door a fresh coat of paint. If summer flower pots, planters, window-boxes or hanging baskets are coming to an end consider refreshing them, or investing in an artificial alternative, choose something that looks season relevant, to keep things fresh. Upgrading your house number can make your home look more polished and modern. Don’t forget that giving your garage door a makeover can make your home look more stylish too!

Clean and/or Update

Exterior Lighting: A welllit exterior can make your home look more inviting and safe. Consider motion sensor lights – these are a great way to add security and convenience to your home as they turn on automatically when someone approaches your home.

If you are watching your energy output - Solar powered light strips are an eco-friendly way to light up your home. LED strip lights are another energy-efficient option that can be used to highlight architectural features or create a warm ambiance. Use flood lights to illuminate large areas

of your home’s exterior. Wall lights and sconces can be used to highlight architectural features or create a warm ambiance while Flush-mount lights are a great way to add subtle lighting to your home’s exterior. Landscape lighting can be used to highlight trees, shrubs, and other landscaping features

Natural Vibes – add pla N ts to get some breathi N g space!

Plants have a myriad of benefits that go beyond their aesthetic appeal.

They purify the air by removing toxins and releasing oxygen, promoting a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, home plants have been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase productivity.

Incorporating plants in interior décor allows us to connect with nature and

create a more balanced and serene living space.

Maintaining Indoor Plants

Caring for indoor plants is essential to ensure their health and longevity. Some key tips include providing adequate sunlight, watering appropriately, and regularly dusting the leaves. It’s important to choose plants that align with your lifestyle

and level of commitment to maintenance. If you have a busy schedule, opt for low-maintenance plants that require minimal care.

Health Benefits Of Indoor Plants

Beyond their decorative appeal, indoor plants offer several health benefits. They help improve air quality by reducing

pollutants and increasing humidity levels, which can alleviate respiratory issues and allergies. Plants also emit oxygen, promoting better sleep quality and overall well-being. Incorporating plants into your interior decor can create a healthier and more invigorating environment for you and your family.

Stress Reduction And Improved Mental Well-Being

The presence of plants in your living space positively impacts mental health. Research suggests that being around plants can help reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and improve overall mental well-being. The greenery and natural elements create a sense of calm and tranquillity, making your home a sanctuary from the stresses of daily life.

Versatility In Design

Indoor plants offer endless versatility when it comes to design possibilities. You can choose plants that complement your existing interior design style, from small succulents on windowsills to large statement plants in corners. Whether your home has a modern, minimalist aesthetic or a

cozy, bohemian vibe, some plants can effortlessly blend in and enhance the overall look and feel of the space.

Benefits For Small Spaces

Indoor plants are particularly beneficial for small living spaces such as apartments or studios. They add a refreshing touch of greenery without taking up too much floor space.

Hanging plants, wallmounted planters, or vertical gardens are excellent options for maximizing the use of limited space while still enjoying the benefits of plants in your home.

Connection To Nature

Incorporating plants into your interior décor allows you to establish a stronger connection with nature, even if you

live in a bustling city. Surrounding yourself with plants can evoke a sense of serenity and bring a slice of the outdoors into your daily life. This connection to nature can help reduce feelings of anxiety and improve overall mental and emotional well-being.

Eco-Friendly Design Choice

Choosing indoor plants for your interior décor is

an eco-friendly design choice. Plants act as natural air purifiers, reducing the reliance on artificial air filtration systems. They also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide levels and help combat indoor air pollution. By opting for plants instead of synthetic décor elements, you contribute to a healthier environment for yourself and future generations.

Attention 16/17 Year Old School Leavers…

Maximize Your Potential with Bryson!

For over 30 years Bryson have successfully managed and delivered a wide range of vocational qualifications, training and employment programmes for those who do not want to return to school.

Bryson is a leading provider of a range of employment and training initiatives, designed for school leavers, young adults and those living with long term unemployment.

Our premises are located in Belfast City Centre.

Bryson’s 16 years+ vocational training

opportunities focus on providing relevant vocational qualifications and the development of key practical skills to enable learners to progress along the chosen path of their future career.

What you can get with Bryson?

• No exam requirements to enrol

• £40 weekly Educational Maintenance allowance (non means tested)

• Travel allowance

• Bonuses, incl £70.00 sign up bonus

• Vocational qualifications

- Bricklaying, Business Administration, Childcare, Hairdressing, Health & Social Care, IT, Joinery, Retail, Playwork & Catering

• Pastoral Care Programme, Careers Advice and Guidance, employment opportunities and more!

At Bryson we offer a comfortable learning environment with small groups of 10-12 learners.

Learners experience all round support from our dedicated Learning and Support Team which includes a Pastoral Care Team, a full-time qualified

councillor and mentors.

The 16 years+ vocational pathways are designed for individual abilities and include real work experience with an employer.

To find out more information about Post 16 vocational pathways with Bryson or to enrol, Contact Nuala on Tele: 07730 527528 Email: nuala.mcstravick@ brysonenergy.org Or Register your interest through: https://tinyurl.com/ Brysonregistrationform

Why White Bedding Works in every home

If you haven’t as yet used white bedding in your home, here are all the reasons that we love it!

All your bedding can match – saving you time. If all beds have white bedding – then it is really easy to change the bedding as you can simply pull out x pillow cases, x sheets and x duvet covers and you’re done – no more looking for matching sets!

It is easy to clean (practicality has to be there!) – you can wash at really high temperatures unlike most coloured bedding. Also if you invest in top quality we you will get good results at lower temperature washes too.

It is cheap – yes, you

can pay a lot for Egyptian cotton sheets – but overall you can get good quality white bedding for a really cost effective price compared to a lot of coloured varieties (and it’s easier to find white as oppose to trying to match a pattern or colour to your room).

It makes a room feel less cluttered, and calmer (the bed is usually the biggest single item in a room – so bedding is a very predominant feature of the space and can make a room feel busy and cluttered if highly patterned.

It can brighten up a

dark room – whether it is dark through lack of natural light, or dark due to the decor, white bedding can transform how bright a bedroom feels (the bed is, after all,

the largest part of most rooms).

It’s classic – it will go with everything – and you can add colour easily with throws and cushions if required.

In children’s rooms it can be quite a calm counter to the bright toys /paint and accessories, and if they share then its easy to make each bed look unique but still have

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 hasslefree travel with very generous baggage allowance, HANNON Coach & Sail is ideal for a 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 lowcost 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 service can be booked online at www. hannoncoach.com up to

1 hour before departure or by phone using the very friendly telephone booking service. Call 028 9265 0700 (Mon – Fri) or visit www.hannoncoach.com

something to tie them together. It looks hotel-like

which can make people think of luxury and opulence, and promotes

a calmness so you can properly relax in your bedroom.

Gibb Roofing & Chimney Specialists Have Got You Covered!

Gibb Roofing & Chimney Specialists are a family-run business that has been established since 1982.

The business is run by David Gibb who has been roofing for over 35 years. Gibb

Roofing offer topquality chimney and roof repair, installation and maintenance services to domestic and commercial customers all over Belfast, Bangor and beyond! They also specialize in the repair and installation of uPVC fascias, soffits and guttering. The Gibb Roofing office is run by Valerie who also knows a thing or two about your roofing needs!

Valerie says that now is

an ideal time to assess if there are any issues with your roof or chimney before autumn and winter set in.

There are several ways to know if there is an issue with your roof or chimney.

Here are some signs you can look out for: Missing grouting: This may show itself through visible cracks in the mortar joint or even algae growing in its place.

Poor condition of the chimney: If it’s started to disintegrate, its structure may need

repairing.

Moisture ingress in your attic: Any gaps in your roof could help rainwater find its way into your property.

In order to view the chimney you will need an inspection from the roof. While on the roof you want to look for damaged mortar joints. These will be located between the masonry of the chimney and allow moisture to enter the bricks. Moisture will cause the bricks to expand, contract and enlarge the cracks. If you notice any of these

signs, it would be wise to seek the assistance of a professional from

Gibb Roofing! Some of the most common roof repair

problems homeowners encounter include damaged roof vents,

leaking roofs, hail damage, damaged flashing, pooled water and clogged or damaged gutters or fascia. Other common types of roof repairs include missing/ damaged tiles, leaky flashings (especially against chimneys), damage caused by rodents, birds or even tree rub. Of course, Gibb Roofing can also help with installation of your new roof and/or chimney on new build or renovation project.

Over the years, Gibb Roofing has carried out thousands

Kill the Clutter

of jobs and has many satisfied customers.

The company has built its business on word of mouth recommendations. You can rest assured; all their work is carried out to the highest standards.

Gibb Roofing has the necessary equipment and expertise to provide for both residential and commercial work! For more information or a quote contact 028 9337 2839 or 078 6050 1376

Or see www. belfastchimney specialists.co.uk

Are you a compulsive collector? The mental trauma of the last few years has made us all the more emotional about our objects!

The irony is that the more possessions we have the less useful or decorative they will be – and ultimately we feel the emotional weight of all that baggage!.

Step 1 – Act like you are about to move house. Take everything out of the room. (Do

this one room at a time or the clutterbug in you just won’t cope.)

Step 2 – Bring back the most important things for the room. For example a living room, the sofa, couch, chairs, TV, stereo, side tables, or the bedroom, bed side tables.

Step 3 – Work out where all the important things sit in the space. Move them so the space flows and that you can move freely around the room. Then sit down and have a look around, breathe in, how do you feel? You should feel liberated. You will find

that your chest feels lighter, the air seems to flow better, (could be something to do with Feng Shui), or just that you are not having to fight with multiple colours and textures around the room.

Step 4 – Start layering. Select a few things at a time to bring back into the

room to decorate with. Paintings, pictures, a vase, a rug, lamps. Do it slowly and feel how the space is changing. Pick out the best items that you want to show, don’t use all of them.

I have just heard lately of an expression called editing, it means select the best things you have and enjoy them, change them around seasonly or as the fashion you follow dictates, it is important that the room expresses the personality of the owner, but we don’t need their wholelife story in one room.

Step 5 – Stop! Yes, don’t keep going. Less is better in a room. Put all the remaining items in storage until you are happy with the new space. Then after a few weeks, sort through it all, keep what is reusable, and donate the rest to a good charity or sell it on ebay. You can kill the clutter and enjoy simple streamlined living once again.

Water pooling on a flat roof can indicate some issues

Find out what help your F amily may be entitled to with back to school costs

While we are still enjoying the summer holidays, parents are already planning for back to school, including buying new school uniforms and other supplies.

It is an expensive time for families, but there may be help available with back to school costs.

School meals

The Education Authority oversees the free school meals scheme for primary and secondary school pupils. Eligibility depends on parents receiving specific benefits and, in some cases, on household income. Assistance is also available for children with a statement of special educational needs and specific dietary requirements.

School uniforms

The Education Authority also oversees the school uniform grant. Eligibility criteria is similar to the free school meals scheme. The school uniform grant has remained the same for the academic year 2023/24. Eligible households remain entitled to a grant of between £42.90 and £93.60, per school-aged child, per academic year.

Transport costs to school

The Education

Authority is required to provide transport to and from school for any pupils who meet specific criteria. Support is made available where there is no suitable school within a legal walking or qualifying distance from the pupil’s home, or where the pupil has not secured a place in an appropriate school within that distance. A child with additional educational needs or disabilities may also receive assistance with transport.

How to apply

Free school meals and school uniform grant applications can be made online. Once submitted the application can take around four weeks to process.

Home to school transport assistance applications can also now be made online. The Education Authority website provides an

online Eligibility

Checker to help parents find out if their child will qualify, prior to completing the formal application. For further information on free school meals, school uniform grants and home to school transport, including how to apply, visit the Education Authority website: www.eani.org. uk/financial-help. Cost of childcare

Many families still require ‘wraparound’ childcare during school term-time. Now is the time to find out what financial support is available - most working families are entitled to help with their registered childcare costs, whether through Tax Credits, Childcare Vouchers, Universal Credit or TaxFree Childcare. Personalised advice and guidance

Employers For Childcare’s Family Benefits Advice Service provides free, impartial and confidential advice to parents on the financial support their family is entitled to and can help families work out if they are eligible for support with back to school costs. Freephone 0800 028 3008 or email hello@ employersforchildcare. org.

Templemore Aquatic Sports Club and Templemore Swim School

Templemore Users Trust Ltd, a charity, ran the Baths on Templemore Avenue, Belfast since the early 1980’s. This was due to the Council wishing to close the Baths following their leisure developments at Avoniel and Maysfield.

The Trust had two objectives - saving the Baths from closure to allow future generations to

enjoy the heritage; and, to teach as many children and adults as possible, ensuring that this was community

led and at community pricing.

Following years of lobbying Belfast City Council, it was finally agreed that the Baths would be included within the Leisure Transformation Program (having not been on the agenda). Heritage Lottery came on board and between both organisations the funding was generated to carry out the significant renovations that have been carried out since 2020.

During the renovations we operated at Shankill Leisure Centre and, again, we thank our loyal members for maintaining their support during this time.

Going forward, Templemore Users Trust Ltd will operate as Templemore Aquatic Sports Club and Templemore Swim School.

From September 2023, we will provide our sessions in the ‘heritage pool’ from Monday to Saturday. We will continue to teach children and adults. Lessons will be from the age of 1, following our exciting partnership with Water Babies. Children will be taught right through to competition swimming should they wish. Our Swim Academy (for those that wish to keep fit but has more of a social side)

is available from the age of 10. Junior Triathlon available from age 7. Throughout our various lessons and Clubs we will also teach life saving skills.

In addition to our swim lessons program, we will also offer specific sessions for the community, families, adults and also for Templemore Triathlon Club.

Become a member of our Facebook pages –Templemore Aquatic Sports Club, Templemore Swim School and Templemore Triathlon Club to keep up-to-date and also keep an eye on our website www. templemore.org.uk

‘Childhood immunisation’ Living Well campaign launched

Living Well is offered in over 500 pharmacies across Northern Ireland and provides information and advice on public health issues.

It is delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency (PHA), Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI), and the Department of Health (DoH).

Geraldine Mallon, Immunisation Programme Manager, PHA said: “The

PHA strongly recommends that babies and children are vaccinated according to the Routine Childhood Immunisations Schedule. Vaccination rates have seen a slight decrease over recent years so it is important vaccination coverage is improved as soon as possible to help prevent the spread of avoidable serious and sometimes deadly diseases such as measles and polio.

“If you are unsure if your child is up to date with vaccinations the easiest way to check is to look at your child’s red book or speak to your health visitor or GP.

If your child has missed a vaccination, please contact your GP practice to book an appointment as soon as you can to make sure they have

maximum protection against disease.”

Vaccination is the most important thing you can do to protect your child against ill health. After clean water, vaccination is the most effective public health intervention in the world for saving lives, promoting good health and preventing serious illness.

Due to the high number of children receiving vaccinations in Northern Ireland over the past number of decades, many serious childhood infectious diseases are rarely heard of. Recently, however, vaccination rates have seen a slight decrease.

It is crucial vaccine uptake remains high in Northern Ireland to prevent many of these serious diseases

returning from parts of the world where they still occur. If this happens, children living in Northern Ireland who are not vaccinated will be at risk of these infections and potentially life-changing complications, even death.

A new campaign focussing on the importance of childhood immunisations has been launched in pharmacies across Northern Ireland. The ‘childhood immunisation’ campaign highlights the importance of vaccination and the protection provided by the childhood immunisation programme. The campaign is running in community pharmacies throughout August and September as part of the Living Well service.

Ronan Warnock, community pharmacist at Tempo Pharmacy said: “Immunisation is important for children because it helps provide immunity before exposure to potentially life-threatening diseases. Immunisation has helped rid the world of some very serious debilitating diseases, smallpox, for example, has now been eradicated thanks to vaccines. Vaccination is like a protective shield. Vaccines work by training your

body’s immune system to make antibodies, which are proteins that help fight infection. If you are reexposed to the disease in the future, your immune system ‘remembers’ the disease and quickly destroys it before you become unwell. The Childhood immunisation campaign encourages parents and guardians to have their babies and children vaccinated according to the routine childhood immunisation schedule. This will give them maximum protection against disease. For more information, call into your local community pharmacy and pick up a free Immunisation protects leaflet or visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/ childhood-immunisation

Some days are simply meant for playing!

Our roving reporter plays up a little in Glengormley

Recently I visited the very cool Little Play Studio in Glengormley and I was so impressed.

If you’re wondering what it is, it’s a purpose built street full of everything children could ever need to role-play a load of scenarios.

It has a Little Cafe, Hospital, Space Station, Mechanics, Construction Site and my favourite The Salon.

I brought my two little ones along for an hour and a half slot and they absolutely loved it. I literally couldn’t get their shoes on to go

home!

Sinead, who owns the set up, has found a niche in the market in Belfast that I can say for sure will be extremely popular for parents.

We are always on the look out for something fresh and new to do with the kids and there are only so many times we can go to soft play so the Little Play Studio was a welcome change. My little girls loved making coffee in the cafe, serving up birthday cake in their little houses and fixing broken down cars. It has

something for everyone for sure.

Not forgetting the parents, the cafe serves up tasty treats and coffee and you can watch your little ones play away from very close by.

The hour and a half slot went by so quickly and my little one was asking if we could go back straight away!

I definitely will go back, it’s the perfect day out for kids to enjoy and enrich their imagination.

Check out their Instagram page (LittlePlayStudio) for more details on how to book your place.

Shop, Cook and Save – New videos show how you can eat well on a budget

The ‘Public Health Dietitians’ channel is a partnership between the PHDG Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency

(PHA) and can be found at www.pha.site/public-healthdietitians-youtube Jill Stewart, Public Health Dietitian with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust said: “We are really proud and excited to launch our new ‘Shop, cook and save’ video series on the Public Health Dietitians YouTube channel – we provide a top-quality, reliable and accessible service, and we hope that the public will find these tips useful,

particularly those who are looking to save money over the summer but still enjoy healthy meals, at a fraction of the price. We’re also keen to show how people can make the most of their meals by using up leftovers and storing food correctly, which will also reduce food waste.

“PHDG is made up of registered nutritionists and dietitians who are qualified health professionals using the most up-to-date public health and scientific

research on food, health and disease to promote health and prevent nutrition-related diseases.

The PHDG is passionate about providing the public with nutrition information they can trust. We hope the public will benefit from the series and learn more about how they can make healthier choices whilst on a budget.”

Dr Hannah McCourt, Senior Officer for Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement with PHA

added: “The PHDG works to equip people to make better food and nutrition choices to improve their health. They support every life stage from babies to older people and everything in between. It’s great to see this new series come to life, especially during the current climate with many families looking to save money as we continue to navigate the cost of living crisis.

“From batch cooking to saving on your weekly shop, the PHDG shares lots

Nazareth House Care Village lifts top Care Awards

The management and staff of Nazareth House Care Village are delighted to have been recognised at the 2023 NI Care Awards in the Titanic Conference Centre achieving 11 awards.

The General Manager Carmel Blaney speaking after the awards ceremony said ‘this is a fitting tribute for the team as they are dedicated to the delivery of high quality compassionate person centred care’.

The recent years have been a tough time for everyone since the commencement of the Covid 19 pandemic and it is great to see

healthcare staff going out and celebrating the achievements of their peers. The Awards were organised by Strategic Events and celebrate innovation and excellence across the NI independent healthcare sector from the past year. Judging this year involved senior representatives from Queens University.

of useful tips for eating well on a budget. Small changes can make a huge difference and everyone can benefit from the tips shared within each of the videos.”

Jill Stewart concluded: “Food is an expensive bill for most people, now more than ever before. We know many people may turn to takeaways and ready meals in an attempt to save money, however that is not usually the best option and there are lots of ways you can make healthier choices

without any added expense such as batch cooking your meals or storing and reusing leftovers.

“Whether you are cooking for a big family or cooking for yourself, this series offers useful tips to make the most out of your meals and save money. You can also access free healthy recipe videos and nutrition webinars on the channel if you’re looking for some more inspiration to make healthy, tasty meals that are perfect for the whole family

to enjoy.”

The new series is available now on the ‘Public Health Dietitians’ YouTube channel which is free and available to access at any time. Subscribe on YouTube at www.pha.site/publichealth-dietitians-youtube

The Public Health Dietitians Group (PHDG) has launched a new video series on its YouTube channel ‘Public Health Dietitians’ showing how you can eat well on a budget. With the current cost of living crisis putting pressure on many households in Northern Ireland, the ‘Shop, Cook and Save’ series aims to show how you can make healthier choices and save money by batch cooking, saving on your weekly shop, easy cooking for one, and storing and reheating food safely.

The PHDG is a group of registered dietitians, nutritionists and support staff who work across Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland and are commissioned by the PHA.

More children turn to Childline during summer as they struggle with eating disorders and body image issues

Childline, the counselling service run by the NSPCC, reveals new data showing that 40% of all the counselling sessions they delivered last year on eating disorders and body image took place in the summer months (June to September).

Across the whole year

- April 2022 to March

2023 - Childline delivered

4,179 counselling sessions across the UK, including more than 100 in Northern Ireland, to children struggling with these issues.

1656 (40%) of those counselling sessions, across the UK, based on these topics took place from June to September, the lead up to and the duration of the summer break.

Eating disorders and body image issues were the 8th most common concern for children contacting Childline in 2022/23.

During this year’s summer holiday, Childline knows that many children might be struggling to cope with these issues and wants to remind them that their trained counsellors and online services are here to support them.

Childline insight

Common themes that came out of Childline counselling sessions on body image and eating disorders include:

- Comparisons to friends, siblings, and people on social media

- Guilt around eating particular ‘bad’ foods or guilt about eating at all

- Negative comments

from family, friends, bullies, and partners about their weight and body often contributes to body image concerns

- Weight worries linked to lockdown, gaining weight due to lockdown inactivity or stress

- Not knowing how to manage weight or fitness without going to extremes

- Cancelling plans due to body image issues

Childline knows that there are number of factors that make the summer holiday a particularly tricky time for children and young people struggling with their body image or their relationship with food.

For some, the prospect of wearing clothing which shows their body more can make them feel under pressure to look a certain way, that they need to lose weight or change their appearance.

For others, this pressure is also reinforced as many will be spending more time online during the summer months to keep in touch with their friends and to stay entertained. As a result, we know many children may be exposed to more content online that might make them feel negatively about the way they way

look.

Additionally, children who struggle with eating disorders might find a change in their day-to-day routine and eating habits over the summer period difficult to cope with.

A girl aged 16, from Northern Ireland, who reached out to Childline said* “I’m struggling to talk to someone about my weight and food worries.

I find myself either super restricting what I eat, or I binge in secret at night.

I know I need to tell someone, but I’ve heard my dad say before how stupid eating disorders are, if he just dismisses it, I don’t know what to do next.”

Another girl, aged 17, told the service: “I hate that I can change how I look in my pictures online but can’t make that happen in real life. In the mirror I just see flaws that need changing. I’ve changed how I eat, I work out, but I can’t get close to how good I look on Instagram.”

If there is a young person in your life struggling with their body image or an eating disorder here are some tips on how best to support them:

• Remind them that how they look is part of who

The S T a T ion h ou S e h o T el

The Station House Hotel is a Contemporary, Boutique Family Run Hotel in Letterkenny Town Centre & in the Heart of the Wild Atlantic Way.

they are and that their personality, achievements and the way they behave is important too.

• Images they may see on TV, in magazines, in social media or online are often altered and airbrushed so what they are seeing isn’t always real.

• Remind them that everyone is different and not to compare themselves to anyone else. Accepting themselves is all about them noticing things they are happy and unhappy about and realise that is what makes them unique.

• To help build their confidence encourage them to spend time focusing on a hobby they enjoy.

• Also, it may help if they write down every morning a few things they like about themselves.

All children can speak to a trained counsellor over the phone on 0800 1111, via email or on a 121 chat on the Childline website (www.childline.org.uk).

Children can also visit the website to find more advice on any concerns or questions they may have on body image and eating disorders and they can also use the service’s monitored message boards to get support from their peers.

Make a break for it in Donegal this Autumn, base yourself at the Station House Hotel, located in Letterkenny town centre and in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, and as central as you can get for exploring the diversity and all the beautiful wonders of Donegal.

The hotel is built on the grounds of where the Old Station House once stood when the Railway System in Co. Donegal was in operation from 1901 to the 1940’s.

It was bought by the Gallagher family in 1953, five years after the last train passed the old building. It became their home and was living in up until 2004 at which point is was demolished and developed into a wonderful hotel that boasts 81 spacious bedrooms, each decorated to a very high standard,

the Depot Bar & Restaurant, and Conference & Banqueting facilities.

Since opening this award winning hotel has garnered a reputation as one of the most popular hotels in Letterkenny and indeed in the greater Donegal area for Donegal hospitality at its best, quality accommodation, dining, and a true local’s local! A place where value and top class customer service is always assured & reflected in countless reviews on various digital platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google.

Autumn is a spectacular time to visit Donegal, it’s so beautiful and there’s just so much to do and to discover! From mighty cliffs and historical sites to hidden waterfalls, break-taking coastline, blue flag beaches, championship

golf courses, retail therapy, excellent cuisines & so much more, and around every corner you’ll find a pub were the art of conversation comes naturally. Letterkenny is home to many a mighty pub!

Book your welldeserved Getaway now, the Station House Hotel have some incredible offers available & discover all that Donegal has to offer. A warm welcome awaits you.

Department urges all users to take personal responsibility to travel safely on our roa D s

The Department for Infrastructure made an appeal recently to all road users to redouble efforts to travel with due care and attention.

The appeal comes as statistics published in early July revealed that 57% of all people who were killed or seriously injured on Northern Ireland roads in 2021 was due to careless driving; a trend that has been steadily increasing over a number of years.

While the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads due to careless driving is down 17% from the 20042008 baseline, there has been an increase in the number of people killed or seriously injured due to careless driving from 2016 onwards.

The Department is

responsible for road safety and last October the draft Road Safety Strategy to 2030 was published. This strategy contains a renewed focus to make our roads safer for all. The Department also recently introduced a new fixed penalty notice of £100 and three penalty points to specifically help tackle careless driving.

The evidence shows that more than 95% of road traffic collisions, where someone is killed or seriously injured, is due to human error such as a choice to speed, drink or drug driving or driving carelessly or while

distracted. People driving or riding carelessly is the cause behind the majority of deaths and serious injuries on our roads here. Most collisions are avoidable. Careless

driving is made up of many behaviours including inattention or distraction, wrong course position and driving too close amongst others and is the biggest cause of deaths and serious

Searching for roller garage doors that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable prices?

Then look no further than Garolla, the UK’s first nationwide roller garage door installer.

Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla garage door. Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla garage door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications. From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy salesmen in sight. As well as installing your garage door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Offering style as well as substance, Garolla electric garage doors are available in 21 colours and come in two

different slat sizes to perfectly fit any opening.

Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. For more information visit their website www.Garolla. co.uk or, alternatively, give them a call on 028 7100 1279

consideration to more vulnerable people, such as those who walk or ride and children and older road users. Every one of us has a role to play in preventing deaths and injuries on our roads. Just as with speeding, drink or drug driving or failure to wear your seatbelt, if you drive carelessly, you run the very real risk of killing or seriously injuring yourself, your passengers or some other innocent road user.

injuries.

As we use the roads as drivers and riders, we need to be extra vigilant – pay attention to our surroundings, ignore incar distractions, give extra

As part of the Road Safety Strategy, the Department invites people to support ‘Share the Road to Zero’, which encourages all citizens to take a road

safety pledge to be the best road users they can to help reduce road deaths. Signing up is easy, it’s

quick and it’s free, and you can do so by clicking here www.sharetheroadtozero. com/

How to C H oose Your Paint Palette

Dreaming of the perfect paint palette? Here’s the inspiration you need. Knowing how to choose paint colours seems easy at first, until you’re faced with decision paralysis from so many choices. Dr Dulux is a firm believer in one very important rule when it comes to colour scheme ideas. That is, there are no rules! Having said that, we’re always here to help answer your questions and offer inspiration towards your dream home designs.

How to choose paint colours you love

Think about the colours you love to wear, the environments you like

to spend time in and the hobbies you enjoy. Which colours do you associate with the things you love? These are the shades that’ll add personality to your space while enhancing the mood you want to create. Now, if you’re thinking you love green for the garden, blue for the ocean and the riot of bold hues you choose for clothes, there’s an easy way to try them all out before committing to house colour schemes. Make the most of memories

You never have to

pine for the beach or the peaceful countryside, when you capture the spirit of it at home. Draw on your cherished experiences for colour scheme ideas that evoke what you adore, each and every day. For example, if you love that coastal holiday feel, consider a light, airy scheme with fresh neutrals and a splash of dreamy blue, like our Considered Luxury palette.

Can’t wait to escape to the forest? Combine tonal shades of green with deep, earthy neutrals,

textured materials for soft furnishings and accessories literally plucked from nature. Add pops of yellow or orange to remind you of the sun peeking through the trees. Remember that there are no rules, so if you simply can’t choose one favourite, use different rooms to highlight an array of memories and moods.

Embrace accent colours

It’s easy to add personality to your home without overpowering it with colour. Consider

combining a main, neutral shade with an accent colour, whether it’s bold or subtlety striking. Neutral shades can appear both warm or cool, depending on what they’re paired with, so you can go as bold as you like with accent colours. For example, consider a deep grey. When combined with rich blue you’ll achieve a serene, oceanic feel. However, blend it with pops of yellow or orange and you’ll find that instant energy and warmth fills a space.

Feature walls offer a great way to embrace accent shades and Dulux Feature Wall Matt comes in a range of exciting paint colours. Highlight fixtures such as fireplaces or doors with Spiced Honey for warmth or try green-greys for a cool, airy feel. If painting the main walls isn’t an option for you, use accent colours on photo

frames, chairs, drawers or cupboards, with Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood for a lovely, mid-sheen finish. Don’t overlook window recesses, trim or other fixtures either, as they’ll come alive with a lick of paint.

Try tonal colour scheme ideas

Choosing two or more tones of the same colour offers a calming appeal that’s oh so easy on the eye. Think Lavender

Quartz as a feature colour with accents of Gentle Lavender throughout.

Two-tone walls add visual interest without the need for artwork. Use cosy colours like Pink Parchment and Heart Wood, with the lighter shade on the upper part of the wall to enhance the illusion of space. For further interest, add a thin stripe between both colours or around fixtures like windows or

doors. Two-tone walls certainly don’t have to be symmetrical, either. Play with different heights and widths to suit your space, or consider colour blocking with geometric shapes. Whichever shades you choose, tonal room colour scheme ideas are guaranteed to imbue your home with harmony. When a colour combination feels right to you, it’s time to jump right into painting!

Home furnishing experts reveal how to arrange your ideal living room

A living room is often said to be the heart of a family’s home. As it is the room that pumps life into both your private and social life, many wish for it to feel and look as special as it possibly can be.

Planning to landsca P e your garden?

When landscaping your garden, there are several things you should consider. Here are just a few of them:

Begin by defining how your garden will be used. Common uses for outdoor spaces include entertaining, cooking and dining, playing and relaxing

It’s important to analyse the site before you begin landscaping. There are many key elements that could affect your design, such as slopes, peaks, drainage patterns, and the type of soil. The ideal soil is 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay. Some people choose to build towards the ideal over several years and develop their garden plan in sections

However, achieving that perfect balance of comfort and aesthetic is no easy task. With that in mind, home furnishing experts

Englanderline have provided some specialist tips around the topic of arranging your dream living room.

Think about what furniture is best for you. Do you need cosy, modern living room furniture or would you prefer something fun and vibrant?

Preferences will inevitably change from family to family, but it is important to accommodate what you partly envision before anything else.

Consider spacing - According to how big your living room space is, agree on whether you will need a big, small, or square couch in your living room. For example, if your room is large, it is obviously best to search for large living room ideas.

What we ultimately learn from this is that spacing is imperative to your plan.

There are two types of spacing to be aware of: positive

and negative. Positive spacing is where your furniture will go, whilst negative spacing is the empty space left in the room. Considering spacing is ultimately beneficial because it allows you to visualise what should go where.

How should you arrange your living room furniture? Avoid facing everything towards a television. One way to do this is by arranging your seats in either a U-shape or an L-shape. These types of arrangements work well for directing one’s eye to another prominent part of your room – a fireplace for instance.

Do not let technology dominate – As we live in the 21st century, technology is pretty much unavoidable everywhere we go.

Most family living rooms tend to include a television or other technological devices.

The advice here is to include technological devices in your living room if that is what you want, but do not allow them to dominate your spacing. Instead, if

you have the spacing to allow for it, arrange for some built-in shelves to put your devices on.

Cabinets and sideboards – what to consider

Grab your guests’ attention – Of course, we agree that comfort comes first. However, if you want to grab your guests’ attention from time to time, and you do not own the luxury of a fireplace or another architecturally attractive feature, you can turn to custommade cabinets or sideboards. Perhaps they can help to hold a collection of ornaments, or indeed any objects of personal importance. Either way, with them being there, you have added that little bit extra to your ideal living room.

Always consider measurements –

Remember to bear in mind that if you are planning to add specific objects to your cabinet, you need to make sure that they will fit. Measuring said objects is a very simple step, but it is one that many people forget. Also, be sure to note the difference in height between the shelves of your cabinet. Do not worry about size proportion – Do not panic if you feel that the cabinet’s size is not proportionate to the rest of the room. Woodworks often tend to look bigger when they are empty. When placing objects on your cabinet, try not to place items of the same scale beside one another. By doing you will create a stimulating effect that both you and your guests will love.

Design - You may have a good head for designyou may not, you may even have something drawn up already! Know your garden: Think about your own little microclimate, drainage and the sun position at the times of day when you will want to use your garden most. You will also want to consider the topography of your site, and your soil type when planning your landscape. Who will be using your garden? Is it just you or will children or animals be sharing the space? What about access and also security of the space – both when you are at home and when you aren’t? Think about themes, how to create zones and link spaces. You will want to make your plants work for you and consider how to

emphasize and enhance them - through placement, reflection (in a water feature for example) or with lighting.

Structure - When designing a landscape garden, it’s important to consider what structure you are going to use. Consider your products and materials in terms of affordability, function, investment value and longevity. How will your lawn be edged? Do you want to have flowers or shrubs in borders, beds and/or containers.Would you like an outdoor kitchen? Is artificial grass a good option?

Soft landscaping is the process of designing the elements of a landscape that do not involve construction. These elements include trees, shrubs, and flowers, as

well as container gardens, potted plants, and hanging baskets. Perennials and shrubs (which flower year after year) may lack 1st year impactbut will build and bulk out for the future.

When considering soft landscaping for your garden, you should think about the following: The type of soil in your garden, The amount of sunlight your garden

receives, The climate in your area, The amount of maintenance you are willing to do. If you are a gardening novice check out which types of plants thrive in your neighbours gardens as this can make choosing your own plants easier!

Above all know when to call a professional, they will be able to handle and develop your project with your vision in mind!