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Work begins on £2.9m shared space project in s outh b elfast

Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron have visited an ambitious £2.9 million redevelopment project aimed at improving community relations in South Belfast.

Once completed, the former Lockhouse will be reimagined into a vibrant community café, training and exhibition and good relations space situated along the Lagan Towpath.

The transformation will complement the work being delivered through the community garden and men’s shed, which were officially opened yesterday. Speaking at the site visit to mark the official start of work on the project, Junior Minister

Reilly said: “It has been so inspiring to hear about the incredible work being carried out by Lower Ormeau Residents Action Group (LORAG) to create vibrant and welcoming spaces for people of all backgrounds to come together. I am delighted that the Urban Villages Initiative is playing a key part in that work through the redevelopment of the former Lockhouse.

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Belfast Music Walking Tours 2024

Book a ticket for a walking tour around Belfast and discover the city’s musical heritage.

From hip hop to classical and punk, opera to folk and electro pop, music plays a significant and important role in the fabric of Belfast, making it a vibrant city to live in or visit. Take a walking tour around Belfast and discover why Belfast deserves the UNESCO City of Music designation.

On the walking tour you can learn about Belfast’s different musical traditions and their roots. Explore some of the venues that are important in its musical history and today, including traditional bars and clubs, historic buildings, open air and performance spaces.

Visit the Oh Yeah Music Centre, Belfast’s own dedicated music hub. The tour takes place on selected dates beginning

Saturday 18th May until Saturday 16th November.

The tour departs from the Ulster Hall at 1pm and finishes at the Oh Yeah Music Centre. A standard tour lasts two and a half hours. A tour with a musical performance lasts three hours.

To buy tickets, go to https://visitbelfast.com/ event/belfast-musicwalking-tour/ If you book, you should come prepared for all weather and to walk around two miles. The tour includes several cobbled streets.

On the first Saturday each month, you can buy a tour ticket that includes a performance by a musician. Belfast Music Walking Tours are part of the Tourism NI Embrace a Giant Spirit Collection of experiences.

Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron have visited an ambitious £2.9 million redevelopment project aimed at improving community relations in South Belfast.

Belfast Castle marks 90 years as a gift to the C ity

One of Belfast’s most iconic landmarks is framing up to celebrate a major milestone.

This summer, Belfast Castle will mark 90 years since it was gifted to the citizens of the city. The 90th anniversary will be celebrated with an array of public events and

activities, as well as the reopening of the Castle’s Cellar Restaurant.

Perched on the slopes of Cave Hill Country Park, the imposing outline of the Castle’s towers

and turrets has become synonymous with Belfast.

The anniversary will offer locals and visitors the opportunity to delve into the iconic estate’s history and heritage. The new look Cellar Restaurant will invite visitors to step back in time and experience Victorian-style shop fronts and gas lights, common features when work on Belfast Castle was first completed.

Over the decades, the venue has played host to many receptions, dances, and high teas. Delving into this legacy, the celebrations will include a Céilí at the Castle and a Big 90th Lunch, allowing picnickers to enjoy the famous city views from the landscaped gardens.

Built in the 1860s, Belfast Castle was constructed by the third Marquis of Donegall, a descendant of the Baron of Belfast. It replaced the

original Belfast Castle, located in the city centre and destroyed by fire. Today, street names like Castle Place, serve as the only reminder of the Castle’s original location. The new Castle was completed by the Marquis of Donegall in 1870, with construction costing much more than its original budget. The Earl of Shaftesbury funded the Marquis £11,000 to complete the building and eventually inherited the estate. Lord Shaftesbury held the role of Lord Mayor in 1907. On 26 July 1934, he donated the Castle and its surrounding estate to the city of Belfast. Ahead of the special anniversary celebrations, Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy welcomed the programme of events and activities: “From its commanding position on Cave Hill, Belfast Castle is a

talisman for our city. We are pleased to mark this special anniversary with a range of public events and activities that offer a snapshot into its wealth of

archaeological, historical, and natural features. From a Dawn Chorus Dander on Cave Hill to a Tea Dance in the Ballroom, there will be opportunities

for everyone to join the celebrations, further building on Belfast’s affinity with its Castle for generations to come.” To find out more

about the programme of celebrations including yoga, open-air painting, vintage car displays and visiting supercars, visit www.belfastcastle.co.uk

NIHF Celebrates 25 Years and Honours Hotel Ambassadors

Fifteen Hotel Heroes Celebrated at Ceremony in Grand Central Hotel

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) is proud to celebrate its 25th anniversary. As part of these celebrations, the NIHF is recognising outstanding individuals who serve as ambassadors in the hotel profession. This year’s Hotel Hero Awards showcase the diverse roles and opportunities available within the sector.

People are the lifeblood of the hotel industry and to celebrate the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) recognised 15 hotel heroes at a special awards ceremony in the Observatory at Grand Central Hotel, Belfast, on Thursday 25th April. The Hotel Heroes were welcomed by host Pamela Ballantine.

Congratulating the recipients, Eddie McKeever, NIHF President, said: “As an organisation,

we felt it was fitting to celebrate our people. People are the pivotal focus of my presidency and the NIHF aims to celebrate the dedicated professionals who contribute to the success and vibrancy of Northern Ireland’s hotel landscape. They are unique, and it is their individuality that gives our industry its personality. We know that the commitment of our staff and the passion that they have for the industry ensures that guests have a great stay. We were delighted with the response, and we had a diverse range of nominations.

“The industry has grown dramatically over the last two decades, and our staff remain central to our success. We asked members to nominate someone within their business who has really made a

difference. The person may have been performing a valuable ‘back of house’ role or meeting customers each day. Either way, their contribution has been noted as enhancing the overall hotel experience.”

The recipients of the 2024 Hotel Hero Awards represent a spectrum of roles,

showcasing the breadth of opportunities within the industry. Each recipient embodies excellence in their respective roles, contributing to the exceptional guest experiences and operational excellence that define Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector.

Belfast’s Korean innovation twin

Belfast and the Administration Capital of Republic of Korea, Sejong City, have pledged to collaborate on research, business and projects that harness urban innovation to support growth in their respective regions.

A Belfast delegation led by Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy has visited: The National Research Council for Economics, Humanities, and Social Sciences (NRC), Korea’s national think tank, Sejong Technopark, The Sejong Centre for Creative Economy & Innovation; and The Smart City centre, which manages Sejong’s city operations.

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “Harnessing innovation is a crucial part of a successful Belfast economy. So, when Innovation City Belfast - a partnership between Belfast’s main institutions – proposed that we should join the Innovation Twins programme, Belfast City Council gave the initiative its full support.

“It’s been fantastic to celebrate the signing of an Innovation Twins Roadmap with Sejong. This will support mutually beneficial learning in areas such as satellite and cyber security, urban mobility, net zero, innovation, trade, and investment.

“The Roadmap, which we’ve developed with Connected Places Catapult, will contribute

to both cities’ sustainable growth ambitions, and deliver benefits for citizens, businesses, and institutions.”

Mayor Choi, Sejong said: “We are delighted to partner with Belfast as our ‘innovation twin’ city.

Sejong is the first city in the world to achieve international recognition as a smart city. We are building our knowledge and expertise to be the future strategic capital of the Republic of Korea and welcome the opportunity to partner with Belfast to achieve our ambitions.

“We believe there are

rich opportunities for research and commercial collaboration between our two cities, by collaborating on proposals outlined in the Roadmap we can accelerate both cities’ ambitions for economic development, trade and investment and, most importantly, enhance lives and opportunities for our citizens.”

Innovation Twins builds upon existing cybersecurity collaborations between Korea University Sejong and Queen’s University Belfast; and a Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU) between Sejong Technopark and Invest Northern Ireland.

During the current visit, Belfast’s Catalyst is signing with Sejong Technopark to support opportunities for Belfast’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

While Sejong’s Climate Neutrality Centre is signing an MoU with the Belfast Climate Commission to work towards a Green City Accelerator for local industry.

For more information on the Roadmap, visit https:// smartbelfast.city

Fresh produce and new F riendships now growing at t he

B ug (Bel F ast’s u r B an g

arden)

Friends new and old gathered on the Belfast Stories site on Kent Street recently to celebrate the launch of The BUG (Belfast’s Urban Garden).

Green fingered enthusiasts, including local primary school pupils, potted their own sunflowers to take home, chatted with

fellow gardeners, and planted vegetables inside

The BUG polytunnels built on part of the site that will become Belfast Stories in

2029. The BUG is one of several ‘Grey to Green’ city centre projects funded under the Department for Infrastructure’s £400,000 Blue~Green capital grant programme, administered by Belfast City Council, with The BUG project receiving funding and support from the Public Health Agency (PHA).

Sharon Crainey, Operations Leader, The Conservation Volunteers NI, said: “We’ll be scheduling up to four closed gardening groups weekly, either for one-off workshops or for an eight-week programme throughout the summer. And we’re planning to host an open volunteering group on Saturdays, providing volunteers with

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“This redevelopment has already transformed an unused green space into a community area for outdoor recreation and education.

the opportunity to engage in ongoing gardening activities.

“The BUG is located right next to another creative greening project on this site in Brink! –who have partnered with Grow and quarto on ‘A Growing Story’ with the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and DAERA.”

Dr Hannah McCourt, Senior Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Officer at the PHA said: “The PHA is pleased to be co-funder of the garden, as it will provide a valuable asset to the community to help improve their health and wellbeing.

“Community gardens and growing initiatives such as The BUG, are great

“I have no doubt this will be a great asset for the whole community in this part of South Belfast, and I look forward to returning to see the completed project in 2025.”

A spokesperson for Lower Ormeau Residents Action

ways to benefit from the Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing, which are, Give, through volunteering; Be Active, by gardening; Take Notice, of the nature around you; Connect, with others who get involved; and Learn, by getting to know more through the TCV NI workshops.

“The BUG will also provide under-represented groups in the city with better access to green spaces in the heart of Belfast, helping to reduce health inequalities.

“The PHA continues to work with our partners to help support people to be more active, increase their knowledge and skills, and build their social connections.”

The BUG is a key project that emerged

Group said: “LORAG welcomes the start of this exciting new development of a Healthy Living Hub within the Lower Ormeau. We thank those funders who have embraced our vision to improve

from a Belfast Healthy Cities ‘Greening the City’ workshop in August 2022 and it was earmarked as a ‘Demonstrator’ project within the Grey to Green strand of the Department for

health and wellbeing of the local community.

“The development will offer access to a fabulous building encompassing the old Lockhouse, transforming the house into a beautiful riverside café, fabulous conference

Infrastructure’s Blue~Green Infrastructure fund. It will explore the extent to which urban gardening with proactive community engagement can create a sense of community

room, alongside two multi-purpose spaces with access to the community garden and shed with panoramic views of the River Lagan and the Belfast Old Industrial skyline.”

ownership and sustainable greening of a city centre site.

For more information on what’s happening at The BUG, visit www.belfastcity. gov.uk/greytogreen.

Funding for the project has been through a collaborative partnership between The Executive Office, Department for Communities, Department for Infrastructure and Belfast City Council, with funding of £1.8m, £750k, £350k and £49.8k allocated respectively.

Two of Belfast’s biggest outdoor music events have generated over £30m for the NI economy

The 2023 editions of Belsonic Festival at Belfast’s Ormeau Park, and Emerge Music Festival at Boucher Road Playing Fields, generated additional economic activity amounting to £30.8 million and created almost 6,000 paid employment opportunities, according to an independent report. Together, these two privately held and funded events attracted over 200,000 paid attendees, with substantial numbers of customers travelling to the events, and some coming from as far away as Australia, USA and mainland Europe.

Festival Director Alan Simms, also of The Limelight Belfast, CHSQ, Shine and many other live music companies in the city, said: “These economic impact figures are startling, and clearly indicative of the broader and hugely positive economic benefit to Belfast and beyond. Hospitality businesses, private transport, public services & many other key areas of the local economy benefit on show nights, and the local tourism industry & hotel occupancy always see a strong boost, not to mention the thousands of staff and local suppliers employed at these and our other events. We are delighted to see our events contribute to the local economy in such a

substantial fashion both with the large summer events and the many other concerts and event we produce throughout the rest of the year.

Economy Minister Conor Murphy added:

“Events such as Belsonic and Emerge are considerable economic drivers providing a much- needed boost for our local tourism and hospitality industry. Employing thousands of people each year, they also engender a feel-good factor and a sense of pride that shouldn’t be underestimated.”

“That roadmap is all about building on our UNESCO City of Music designation, placing music at the heart of the city to make Belfast an even better place to live, work and visit – and supporting our musicians, our music infrastructure, our neighbourhoods and maximising Belfast’s vast music potential. Belsonic

and Emerge have also engaged positively with elected members, residents and other stakeholders to enhance their offering.

Music is such a key part of our cultural identity and expression, so it’s great to hear that there’s substantial growth planned for Emerge this year, during Belfast 2024, our city’s biggest ever cultural and creative celebration.”

For more information, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ belfastmusic

Barnett Demesne mountain B ike trail highlighte D

Barnett Desmesne mountain bike trail in Belfast has been highlighted on the refreshed its MountainBikeNI.com website, which showcases over 150 miles of mountain biking trails situated across numerous NI trail centres as popularity in the sport surges.

The site serves as a hub which allows riders across NI to source information about trails which originate from several official trail centres, as well as every pump track and skills course in Northern Ireland.

The official trail centres include Barnett Demesne in Belfast, Davagh Forest in Mid Ulster, Gortin Glen Forest Park outside Omagh, Castlewellan and Rostrevor which are in Newry Mourne and Down, and Fivemiletown’s Blessingbourne Estate, amongst others.

MountainBikeNI.com also provides an interactive map which details all trail information, including length, difficulty, on site facilities and downloadable GPX files, which allow riders to open a live map of the trail on their navigation device when out and about.

The site also lists all accommodation and eateries that are situated close to the trails, which is set to drive footfall to local businesses.

Mountain biking has seen an increase in popularity across Northern Ireland since the development of the country’s first dedicated trails in 2013, with engagement in the sport surging during the pandemic.

Young Belfast residents get help to Take The Next Step with JobStart

Young Belfast residents aged 16-24 had the chance to meet over 30 employers with JobStart opportunities in a wide range of roles today at 2 Royal Avenue.

Thanks to a partnership between Belfast City Council and the Department for Communities, the free event also provided useful information on Employment Academies, selfemployment, the Gateway to Choices (G2C) service and Conditions Management Programme.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, who attended the event and chatted with young people and employers said: “Our JobStart event today is all about helping young people in Belfast who are at risk of long-term unemployment or struggling to get a job.

into employment thanks to today’s event.”

Minister for Communities

“That’s a key priority in our Belfast Agenda – and part of our employability and skills programme, #TakeTheNextStep. Today’s event also showcases our Gateway to Choices Service (G2C) – which is connecting people to jobs and training through a free app and trained team of advisors.

Gordon Lyons said: “My Department is committed to improving employment opportunities for young people and today’s event shows how both young people and employers are benefiting from the JobStart scheme.

line colleagues from my Department’s Jobs and Benefits Offices whose advice and guidance to young people ensures they receive the proper support to move into employment.”

The diverse roles on offer spanned administration, childcare, customer service, distribution, health and social care, hospitality, logistics, marketing, sports coaching, transport, videography, youth work and warehousing.

A huge amount of work has gone into ensuring it is as user friendly and durable as possible, allowing for integration with more

Ethan Loughrey, Communications and Training Executive with Outscape, said, “We’re delighted to be able to share the new MountainBikeNI. com website with the public.

modern Geographic Information System developed mapping. “We have also added a number of trails, and all of the pump tracks and skills courses in Northern Ireland to the website. These sites provide an essential outlet

for outdoor opportunities for local communities and their benefits - everything from increased physical and mental health to substantive reductions in antisocial behaviour - are widespread.”

To discover more, visit: https://mountainbikeni.com

“We’ve been delighted with the response from employers, and I’d like to thank all the businesses and support organisations that have signed up to attend. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of young people get

“It is positive to see so many opportunities for young people to choose from as a starting point in their career. It is especially pleasing that a number of NI Civil Service positions are on offer for those young people who face additional barriers to entering the workplace.

“Today’s event has been supported by front

For more information on Belfast City Council’s range of employability and skills support go to www.belfastcity.gov. uk/employability and www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ employmentacademies #TakeTheNextStep

The people of Belfast are making a film and you’re invited to get involved

The people of Belfast are being invited to contribute to an exciting new film project documenting the city through the eyes of its people - part of the Belfast 2024 programme.

The Hearth is a project that will capture hundreds of stories to create a self-portrait of Belfast.

Moments that move us, make us laugh, or cry are all wanted for this unique venture. The film’s subject is Belfast and what life is like in our city right now –so your stories are needed.

The project is being supported by director and writer Mark Cousins, documentary filmmaker Alison Millar (Lyra), Paula McFetridge, Director of Kabosh Theatre and will be scored by Belfast DJ and music producer David Holmes (The Fall; Killing Eve; Kin) – and now the Hearth team want to hear from the people of Belfast, every age, creed, race, class, sexuality and ability.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “The Hearth is a really important, exciting project in a whole series of amazing projects that make up Belfast 2024, Belfast City Council’s biggest ever creative and cultural celebration.

“Belfast 2024 is bringing the city to life

with creative projects and events and civic initiatives

– and now is your chance to play a starring role in it! If your footage is selected for The Hearth, you and your family or friends will be invited to its world première at this year’s Belfast Film Festival, before it goes on to be screened at locations around the city, as well as at international film festivals.

“And with the serious talent supporting this project, I know it’s going to be very special indeed – so get out and about, get filming and get involved!”

Michele Devlin, Belfast Film Festival CEO commented: “Now is the

time to get out and film!

We have four loose themes to inspire you. These are division, ritual, physical bodies (tattoos/piercings), love – you could capture a family occasion, a favourite place in Belfast, a place you enjoy going to, a walk with your dog, daily banter in the shops you visit, the changing landscape of Belfast. Something that means something to you!” Getting involved is easy.

Anyone can participate using a phone or the simplest of cameras to film things that are meaningful to them. Footage is not expected to be perfect – in fact, raw and unfiltered is better. It

may just be a few seconds that make it through, with all selected clips edited to form a visual collage that depicts Belfast.

If cameras aren’t your thing, you can still get involved by writing stories, observations or poems that can be used as voiceovers.

Submissions must be no longer than three to four minutes, and videos must be filmed in landscape format.

Send your contribution to the team at thehearth@ belfastfilmfestival.org by May 31, 2024.

For more information go to belfastfilmfestival. org/the-hearth and www. belfast2024.co.uk

The Blind Spo T: ne W e AST B el FAST

S ho WR oo M i S S po T on F o R W indo W

d R e SS in GS AS de MA nd GR o WS!

The Blind Spot, located in East Belfast, is a well-established blinds and shutters company with over 30 years of experience. Manager Krystina Bradford sheds light on current company news.

What is the history of the business?

The original factory shop was opened in 1990 by my mum and Grandfather. We still specialize in manufacturing and fitting high-quality window coverings for both residential and commercial properties. This now includes venetian, vertical, roller and roman blinds but also embraces new technologies and advancements – today we also offer motorised blinds, shutters, multifunction Blindscreens

and coming soon we plan to draw open a new curtain department!

So tell us about the new showroom!

To accommodate and showcase our ever expanding stock we have opened a new Showroom at 4 East Belfast Enterprise Park, Belfast BT5 4GX (just around the corner from our old shop which is still our manufacturing site!) It’s around x3 times larger than our previous retail space so that you can easily

see the benefits and choice of products in a contemporary styled showroom space. Whats on offer?

In particular you can now fully appreciate the wide range and colour choice we offer in our beautiful Sante Fe Shutters – which we can install in less than 6 weeks and appreciate the difference that motorised blinds can make to your lifeststyle. You can also see for yourself our range of Blindscreens -

manufactured within the UK. These are great for keeping our bugs as well as giving total blackout on any window and door including bi fold doors and can revolutionise the way you manage your access to the outdoors at home or in your business. Tell us more about BlindScreen NI?

We are so impressed with Blind Screen – These easy to operate blinds come in a variety of styles, including net/fly screens for keeping

insects out perfect to update your home or office with a modern and contemporary blind option this summer! We’re so impressed that we’ve become one of only two NI retailers for Blind Screen! What’s the difference when you choose The Blind Spot?

All of our blinds and shutters are made-tomeasure and crafted with precision. We offer a free measuring service right across Northern Ireland– so there’s not need to

guess-timate! We offer Affordable Prices without compromising on quality and a wide range of Choice. Explore various styles, fabrics, and colours to match your property’s aesthetic. Visit us or Get in Touch or Visit our NEW SHOWROOM at 4 East Belfast Enterprise Park, Belfast BT5 4GX or give us a call at 028 9059 5255 to discuss your requirements. www. theblindspotbelfast. co.uk

Summer Fun at Leadhill Primary School

This is a busy term for all schools and as the weather improves the children of Leadhill Primary School love to get out and about on site, taking learning outdoors and having fun together.

From the new safety surface in the preschool playground to the blossoming orchard area, the children love all the opportunities presented for play and learning on our site. The site is buzzing as our eco team carry out their spring gardening duties, planting in the greenhouse, flowerbeds and planters, and making sure the weeds are kept at bay. They have been working hard to renew our Green

welcome the brand new group of P1 and playgroup pupils, who will be attending welcome sessions this month but are also preparing to say farewell to the P7 class who have made such a fantastic contribution to the life of the school. Their residential family, in the Primary School or Pre-school Playgroup, visit the school website on www.leadhillps. com or phone the school to arrange for a conversation with the Principal, Anne Millis. We would love to welcome you to our school!

hundreds of local Families celebrate World Autism Acceptance Week

Northern Ireland’s autism charity, Autism NI, recently welcomed hundreds of local autism families to celebrate World Autism Acceptance Week at W5 in Belfast.

The event saw families come together to celebrate and show their support for our autistic community.

The Family Fun Day was the final event in a week of celebrations hosted by Autism NI. The Charity organised several activities and campaigns with local businesses, schools, families and the wider public during World Autism Acceptance Week, which is taking place from 2nd – 8th April 2024.

Autism NI CEO, Kerry Boyd said, “Our key message this World Autism Acceptance Week is to ‘Be Kind To Different Minds’. It is vital that everyone within our society takes the time to understand autistic people and learns how to support our autistic community, whether that is within the classroom, at work or within the local community.

Our Charity’s mission is to build an inclusive society in Northern Ireland where

autistic children and adults have the best support and opportunities to live fulfilled lives, and we need the general public to help us achieve this. Ms Boyd continues, “It was fantastic to see so many families across Northern Ireland come together for our Family Fun Day. Nearly a thousand children and families came together to enjoy the fun interactive activities on offer. It was a day where our children could really be themselves in a safe setting, and I would therefore like to thank our amazing volunteers that made this possible.”

With over 35,000 autistic people in Northern Ireland, the local charity is encouraging everyone to get involved and show their support for our vibrant autistic community.

To find out more or for further information please call 028 9040 1729 or visit www.autismni.org

Introducing Padel54

– the new activity just down the road in Moira!

Ever thought about trying Padel for your next friends, family, team-building, customer or corporate event? Whatever your preference, we’re here to make it happen.

Played by celebrities and sports -stars padel is the fastest-growing racquet sport across Europe. The BBC recently highlighted the

sport and its growth across the UK & Ireland.

https://www. bbc.co.uk/news/ newsbeat-68607780

It’s perfect for team building because it combines fun and physical activity in an easyto-learn game suitable for all ages, fitness levels, and skill sets. And, it’s great for socializing and networking.

Situated in Moira, less than 20 minutes from Belfast with easy access from the motorway, Padel 54 has six indoor courts ensuring your team event takes place no matter the weather.

At Padel54, our primary mission is to ignite the passion for Padel by introducing this sport to as many members of the community as possible. Our special focus lies in introducing the game to the younger generation, and we’re actively seeking sponsors for our youth and local school programs. https://www.instagram.com/padel_54/ https://www.facebook.com/Padel54N/ www.padel54.com

New tax year sees cha N ges to the support available to families

Find out what you are entitled to by calling the Family Benefits Advice Service on 028 9267 8200.

The Spring Budget saw a number of changes announced which impact families, including a reduction in National Insurance Contributions for most employees, changes to Child Benefit and an uplift to benefits and pensions.

National Insurance

From April, there has been a cut in the main rate of Class 1 National Insurance from 10% to 8%.

Following the previous reduction from 12% in January, this means that someone on the average salary in Northern Ireland of around £33,000 will see a reduction in their National Insurance contributions of £817. However, parents who use Childcare

Vouchers to pay for registered childcare will see the level of savings they can make through this scheme reduced as a result of the cut to National Insurance.

Child Benefit

From April, the lower threshold at which families lose some of their Child Benefit has risen from £50,000 to £60,000 meaning that parents earning up to £60,000 will now receive the full Child Benefit amount. Child Benefit will not be fully withdrawn until individuals earn £80,000 or higher.

Uplifts in benefits and National Living and Minimum Wages

From April 2024 benefits, including

Universal Credit and Tax Credits, have been uplifted by 6.7%. There has also been an increase in the National Living and Minimum Wages of approximately 9.8%, with the age threshold for the National Living Wage lowering from 23 to 21.

We are here to help you

We know it can be difficult to work out what financial support is available for your family and to interpret what these

The State Pension and Pension Credit have also been uprated, in line with average earnings growth of 8.5%.

changes mean for you. We want to make sure all families are receiving everything they are entitled to. For free, impartial and confidential advice, call our Family Benefits Advice Service on 028 9267 8200 or email hello@ employersforchildcare. org.

Belvoir Park Primary School

Once again Belvoir Park have had staff recognised at the Families First Awards. We are blessed with amazing staff, and we just love people to know how committed we are to developing skills and providing a range of experiences for all our pupils.

Mrs Alma Wilson, our school secretary walked away with Support Staff member of the year, and we all agree it was well deserved. Alma is the face of Belvoir. She is the first person you meet when walking into the school. She is friendly and very kind and will always help, even when she has so much to do herself.

Mrs Hannah Morrison was nominated because of her commitment, but in particular, her dedication to sporting opportunities

but she gets involved in everything the school does. She is keen to provide a range of experiences for our pupils. On 7th May we ran our first ever “24” competition. 36 pupils attended and a great time was had by all with Friends Prep winning 1st place. Mrs Morrison has also arranged our Annual Girls Football Tournament which continues to grow year on year. Mrs Morrison received Highly Commended.

Mrs Sharon Johnston is one of our amazing 1:1 support SEN Classroom assistants and she received highly Commended. Mrs Johnston has made a remarkable difference with the child she supports in Nursery and his parents were so thrilled with is progress they nominated her for this award. Mrs Johnston has worked with us for 2 years but has been working as a Classroom Assistant for 14 years.

Family F riendly

a ctivities in Bel F ast

Belfast is a vibrant city with plenty of family-friendly events and activities to enjoy during the summer of 2024. Here are some exciting options.

Safari in the City –Making Space for Nature Conference (May 28, 2024): Explore how to make urban green spaces more natureful, biodiverse, and resilient.

Water Works –Community Boatbuilding Workshops (May 18-26, 2024): Get creative at the spectacular Drawing Office, Titanic Hotel, while building boats.

Bat Walk (August 31September 3, 2024): Take a walk and learn about the bats of Shaw’s Bridge.

Sound Links –Consultation Event (May 14, 2024): Enjoy a oneday festival of dance, song, and fun for all ages on Townsend Street.

Little Amal: The Half Bap (May 17, 2024): Join

local resident Barney and Amal as they explore the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, also known as the Half Bap.

The Guillemots of Lagan Weir Tour (May 25, 2024): Discover the Black Guillemot colony at Lagan Weir and learn about their fascinating lives.

Swift Stories Workshop (June 24, 2024): Explore how swifts have been secured at the iconic site of the Crescent Arts Centre.

Butterfly Walk and Talk (July 27, 2024): Observe the beautiful butterflies of Cave Hill during this guided walk.

Wildflower Identification Walk (July 6, 2024): Learn about

the wildflowers of Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park.

Dawn Chorus Day (May 4, 2024): Experience the soundscape of the dawn chorus and sunrise at Black Mountain.

Little Amal: The Seahorse and the Wolf

(May 16, 2024): Welcome Amal with an outdoor theatre spectacle of music and dance co-created by the community.

Damsels and Dragons Walk (June 24, 2024): Meet Belfast’s damsels and dragons while discussing the

Things to do From Country to Coast in County Down

The entire County of Down offers a delightful blend of countryside and coastal experiences.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best activities to enjoy in this picturesque County!

Tollymore Forest Park: Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Tollymore Forest Park is Northern Ireland’s first state forest park. It feels like a scene from a fantasy movie, complete with fairytale-like bridges and lush forests.

identification features of damselflies and dragonflies.

Remember to check the specific dates and locations for each event.

Belfast 2024 promises a summer filled with creativity, nature, and family fun!

Explore various trails, such as the Arboretum Path (25 minutes), the River Trail (1.5-2 hours), and the Drinns Trail (3-4 hours).

Slieve Donard: As the highest peak in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard offers rewarding hikes. The Glen River trail (4.6km one-way) is a popular choice, taking around 4-5 hours to complete. Proper planning and fitness are essential.

Castlewellan Forest covers a whopping 460 hectares. Explore the Peace Maze (around 40 minutes to complete), the 18th-century National Arboretum of Northern Ireland, and various walking trails.

Beaches Galore: County Down boasts several stunning beaches along its coastline. While Newcastle Beach and Helen’s Bay Beach are wellknown, don’t miss these hidden gems: Rossglass Beach; Ballywalter Beach; Ballyholme Beach; Tyrella Beach; Murlough Beach

Slieve Binnian:

The

walk covers 11.2km and takes 3-4 hours. It’s a challenging trail that rewards you with breathtaking views. Make sure you’re fit and prepared for this adventure11.

Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the coastal breeze, County Down promises unforgettable experiences. For more details, check out The Irish Road Trip’s guide or explore the official Ards and North Down or Newry and Mourne Area Council websites.

Millisle Beach; Kilclief

Slieve Binnian

Ards A nd n orth d own Arts A nd h erit A ge s ummer Progr A mme

u nveiled

Ards and North Down Borough Council proudly presents its Arts and Heritage Summer Programme, spanning the May to August period.

Bursting with an array of events, exhibitions, and creative classes, alongside exciting events at Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum, the diverse programme offers cultural experiences for everyone. Highlights from the Arts and Heritage Summer programme include the popular Friday Night Live series of events which will see musicians Brigid O’Neill and Wilfie Gilbert take to the stage at Ards Arts Centre. The Ulster Orchestra return to Bangor Abbey in June

for another enchanting evening of classical music presented by a small ensemble.

The picturesque setting of Bangor Castle’s Walled Garden will host the acclaimed ForM Sculpture Exhibition in June, showcasing the

works of artists from all around the island of Ireland. World-famous magician and household name, Joel M will appear at Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor in July where audiences can witness the impossible as he shows off his latest and greatest illusions!

The annual Creative Peninsula festival in August offers an abundance of opportunities to try your hand at arts and craft practices. Featuring workshops from talented local artists, studio visits and the fantastic Creative Peninsula in the Square event, there’s plenty to get involved with!

For anyone wishing to learn a new skill or perhaps develop existing skills, Ards

Arts Centre has lots of creative classes on offer – from silversmithing to calligraphy, drawing to ceramics and lots more! Enrolment for classes opens for online booking is now open.

North Down Museum also has a busy Summer ahead. Highlights of their programme include a series of Ulster Scots events for children, taking place in August. From the Children’s Ceilidh, where kids can learn traditional group dances, to the lively Wiggly Weans event where little ones will delight in singing rhymes and mastering ceilidh moves.

The museum will also host the RNLI’s 200th Anniversary exhibition, opening in June. The exhibition will explore

the important role played by the RNLI and their volunteers since the first lifeboat station opened in the borough in 1858.

Speaking about the programme, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager with Ards and North Down Borough Council said:

“We have a really exciting and varied programme of arts and heritage activity with music, exhibitions, hands-on classes and lots to entertain younger audiences. We hope you’ll visit us at Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum this Spring/Summer.”

Tickets are now on sale. To view the full programme and to book, visit: www.andculture. org.uk/whats-on

Take the Plunge – Wild

Swimming

For many, swimming in the ocean is reserved only for far flung locations where the water is more akin to a bath than a glass of icy water.

However, the benefits of wild swimming are manifold and doing so can have a long-lasting positive impact on your health.

The majority of the benefits associated with open swimming are based on the cold temperature of the water – something that those in Northern Ireland are familiar with. The cold water often found in the oceans is proven to stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system which promotes a sense of relaxation and can deliver a better night’s sleep.

Whilst it might be a nightmare for some, submersing your body in cold water forces the brain to release certain endorphins which have been shown to boost the mood and increase general happiness. Another consequence of the cold temperatures is the positive impact that it can have on ones metabolism. The cold water forces your body to work harder to keep warm, which in turn, increases the calories that you burn. As the temperature of the water decreases, the amount of energy that your body will burn to stabilise the core temperature increases, thus accelerating your metabolism.

For those seeking the secret to naturally youthful skin, open water swimming could be for you. The cold water is known to exfoliate the skin, removing impurities and smoothing out blemishes.

Alongside aesthetic benefit, spending one hour in cold water can shock your immune system and help produce more white blood cells as well as antioxidants – leaving your body better able to combat illness.

Finally, wild swimming is good for promoting better circulation. The cold water forces out body to rush blood to our organs in order to retain a core temperature, making the heart work harder as more blood needs to be circulated. The increased blood flow through your capillaries, arteries and veins promotes good health and enables the body to both better fight infection and repair damage.

World famous magician, Joel M who will be performing at Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Wednesday 3 July.

Summer is the perfect time of the year to stop that sedentary lifestyle that dominates many of our routine lives.

Between working office jobs and wanting to relax in the evenings, it is far too easy to put exercise off for another time. With the onset of longer nights and warmer weather, the summer months are the perfect time to get out and about with your family. Not only will this bring the obvious health benefits that come with healthy living, but it also creates the perfect time to bond and become closer as a family.

For adults, going for an afternoon walk away from the distractions of the house, the TV and the Smartphone will grant you the opportunity of speaking with partners or family members and becoming closer as a result. For many, having a family pet such as a dog is a great motivation to go for a walk, however if you don’t have one, the mental and physical health benefits should be motivation enough.

As for children, babies and toddlers spend an awful lot of time strapped

into car seats or plopped in front of the TV. Not only does this prevent them from practicing their emerging motor skills and strengthening their heart, lungs, and muscles, but it can also set them up for a sedentary lifestyle, and even obesity, as adults.

A good habit of physical activity, on the other hand, will last a lifetime.

Ensuring that one achieves appropriate levels of physical exercise has been directly linked with good mental health. Studies have shown that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour can decrease an individual’s likelihood of developing depression by 26%. An increased amount of exercise in an individual’s life can promote a number of positive changes in the brain which directly combat poor mental health by promoting feelings of calm and well-being. It also leads to a release of endorphins which energize your experience and make you feel good.

Exercising as a family is a great way of promoting a healthy lifestyle that children can continue throughout their lives into adulthood. This exercise is particularly important for adolescents, whose bodies and brains are still growing.

The every same endorphins that make you feel better while working out, also improve cognitive ability and levels of concentration – making exercise the perfect thing for study breaks or those seeking to prevent agerelated cognitive decline.

Exercise can be thought of as an investment in body, mind and soul. As parents, it is important to promote a healthy understanding of body image and doing sporting activities as a family is a great way of both improving the relationship ties within the family dynamic as well as fostering a sense of self worth at an individual level. Greater levels of exercise have been linked

to greater body confidence – something that is becoming more and more important in the lives of young people. The physical benefits of exercise are obvious. As well as greatly improving the quality and quantity of sleep that each individual gets, it also gives you a greater level of energy during the day, boosts your

Looking forward to Spring and Summer at Chestnutt Holiday Parks

With the relentless pace of life, making time with family and friends is something we learn to treasure.

Chestnutt Holiday Parks is a family business who have been helping multiple generations do just that.

Situated along the Mourne Coast they operate 4 award winning caravan parks. Regularly featuring in the UK’s top 100 parks, and recent winner of the Staycation Awards they provide top class facilities. Waking up to the sound of the sea

or drawing your curtains to the Mourne mountains in the morning or both, is a real possibility. Whether you are interested in touring, camping or caravan hire, or would prefer to own your own holiday home, there is sure to be a holiday experience to suit you!

If you are interested in creating memories with family and friends, then contact Chestnutt Holiday Parks.

immune system and can reduce the impact of stress. Even small amounts of exercise such as a short walk around the park, a cycle to the shop, a dance in the house or even a family trip to the

swimming pool can have notable health benefits in all aspects of one’s life. The simple act of raising your heart rate really can work wonders – and doing it as a family...well that’s just the cherry on top.

Dive into summer fun at r ainbow Gymnastics!

Summer Camp and Summer Fayre are both on the horizon

Looking for an exciting way to keep your kids active, engaged, and entertained this summer?

Look no further Rainbow Gymnastics Summer Camp offers the perfect blend of gymnastics training, outdoor adventures, and endless fun.

Led by our team of experienced coaches, campers will embark on a thrilling journey of skillbuilding and discovery as they explore the exciting world of gymnastics. From learning basic tumbling techniques to mastering advanced flips and tricks, there’s something for every skill level and interest.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Campers will also enjoy a variety of activities, games, and crafts designed to promote teamwork, creativity, and confidence. Whether they’re conquering our obstacle courses, working in teams to defeat our games or creating masterpieces in arts and crafts, every day is an

adventure at Gymnastics Summer Camp.

With flexible scheduling options and a safe, supportive environment, our camp is the perfect choice for families looking to make the most of their summer break. Spaces fill up fast, so don’t wait! Enroll your child today and watch them flip, tumble, and soar to new heights at Gymnastics Summer Camp!

You are also welcome to join us for a day of excitement, entertainment, and endless family fun as we celebrate the spirit of gymnastics under the summer sun at our Summer Fayre!

Watch in awe as our gymnasts showcase their skills with gravitydefying flips, twists, and tumbles, sure to leave you breathless. Then, dive into the action with hands-on activities and challenges for all ages, from miniobstacle courses to bounce houses and inflatable games.

Explore our vendor booths offering delicious

treats, colourful merchandise, and exciting giveaways. Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to win fantastic prizes in our raffles and contests throughout the day.

Whether you’re a gymnastics enthusiast or simply looking for a day of outdoor fun, our Gymnastics Summer Fayre promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So gather your loved ones, pack your sunscreen, and join us for a day of sunshine, smiles, and summer fun at Rainbow Gymnastics! Further info about the Summer Camp and Tickets for Summer Fayre can be purchased online on our website www. rainbowgymclub.com

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

Dive into the Summer with this incredible Golden Years Break offer!

Superbly located in the heart of the thriving town of Letterkenny, so you only have to open their doors and you are right where all the action is! From the endless number of family-friendly activities to shopping centres, charming boutiques, the vibrant nightlife scene, relaxing restaurants, the theatre and more, and with easy access to all major routes and natural attractions, Letterkenny has so much to offer!

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, four years after the last train passed the old building. It became their home and was living in up until 2004 at which point it was demolished and developed into a wonderful hotel

that boasts 81 spacious bedrooms.

Choose from a range of their guestrooms for your accommodation, whether you are travelling as a couple, with family members or friends they have a number of room types for you to choose from including family, interconnecting, twin, triple, double, accessible, and executive. All of which are vibrant with a fresh and contemporary approach to the décor and designed with your comfort in mind and feature plasma TV’S with Chromecast allowing you to connect your phone or device directly to the screen so you can stream your favourite TV shows and films during your stay so you can relax, unwind and feel right at home at the Station House Hotel.

The Station House is also home to the Depot Bar & Restaurant, a true “locals local,” and one

of Letterkenny’s best and most popular bar & restaurant. It provides the perfect excuse for a pause and pamper your palate, offering a wide range of sumptuous dining options.

Since opening in 2006 their focus has been to provide good quality food using the finest of fresh seasonal local produce to create dishes that just ooze with flavour.

Just a short driving

distance from the Station House Hotel you can indulge in the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way and the natural beauty of the County. The most spectacular landscapes, breath taking coastlines, waves known to surfers from around the world, 80 miles of beautiful beaches, the greatest outdoors at its best, stunning scenery, excellent cuisines, world iconic visitor attractions

and more! So much just waiting to be revealed and the only boundary to your relaxation will be your imagination!

Grab yourself a great hotel deal with this wonderful summer Golden Years offer! No prepayment required, call them now to secure your preferred dates and pay on arrival.

A warm welcome awaits you.

Ways to enjoy your garden even more this summer

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your garden, and there are several ways to make the most of this season.

Here are some easy tips to help you create a beautiful and enjoyable outdoor space!

Water Effectively: Thoroughly water the soil surrounding your plants rather than doing it little by little. This encourages deeper root growth and reduces the need for frequent watering.

Create small pools of water around your plants to allow proper absorption. Well-

hydrated plants will thrive in the summer heat, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your garden.

Feed Your Plants: Regularly feed your plants to keep them healthy and vibrant.

Use a general-purpose plant food for most plants, but choose one specifically designed for edible plants if you’re growing fruits or vegetables.

Add Instant Colour:

As summer progresses, some plants may stop flowering, leaving gaps in your garden. Summer bedding plants are an excellent solution.

These low-cost plants add instant colour and work well in containers.

Position them near outdoor seating areas or your front door to enjoy

Set a reminder to feed your plants according to the instructions on the packaging.

their showy blooms.

Refresh Your Garden Furniture: Old, worn-out garden furniture can affect the overall look of your outdoor space. Consider investing in new pieces such as a dining set, outdoor sofa, parasol, or deckchairs.

Fresh furniture creates a welcoming atmosphere for family gatherings and guests. Choose comfortable and stylish options to enhance your garden’s appeal.

Host a Summer BBQ: Invite friends and family over for a barbecue. Set up a cozy outdoor dining area with fairy lights, cushions, and a grill.

Enjoy delicious food, good company, and the warm summer evenings in your garden.

Grow Your Own Fruit

and Vegetables:

Use a small corner of your garden or even containers to grow your own produce. Tomatoes, herbs, and strawberries are great choices.

Harvesting fresh fruits and veggies from your garden adds a rewarding touch to your summer experience.

Create a Relaxing Nook:

Set up a quiet corner with comfortable seating, perhaps under a pergola or near a water feature.

Add soft cushions, potted plants, and maybe a good book. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of your garden.

Outdoor Lighting: Install outdoor string lights, lanterns, or solarpowered path lights.

Go Country in The Kitchen!

If you’re hoping to add a touch of country style to your home, you’re in the right place.

Here, we share a selection of our favourite country style home ideas. We’ve put together some of our favourite farmhouse kitchen ideas, to set you off on the right foot.

Florals

Florals are synonymous with country cottage decor. You can incorporate blooms into your home through a number of innovative ways. Choose cushions, throws and curtains that are adorned with a floral fabric that you love. Alternatively, a big vase full of beautiful fresh blooms definitely does the trick.

Vintage furniture

One of our favourite farmhouse decor ideas is using vintage furniture to add style and personality to your home. You can source vintage pieces from a multitude of different places but Facebook Marketplace is definitely one of our favourites – and you’ll be able to bag a true bargain! Go on an adventure to your local antique stores to see what goodies you can pick up. Look past the colour of your chosen piece of furniture as you can always give it a new lease of life by upcycling it with a pot of paint.

Incorporate green

Spice up a country kitchen by incorporating colour. Sage green is popular for farmhouse interiors. It feels warm and comforting as well as evoking images of the natural world. So, why not reinvigorate your current kitchen design by painting your kitchen cabinets sage green, giving it an instant refresh? Alternatively, if you don’t want to make permanent changes, introduce sage green into your

through your choice of

and plants.

One O f nature’s great d O uble acts.

The Latin name for the jay is garrulus glandarius, ‘garrulus’ meaning noisy and glandarius meaning ‘of acorns’. Acorns are the jay’s primary food, and there would be no jays without acorns. Indeed, there would be fewer, maybe

no oaks, without jays. They are members of the smart crow family, about the size of jackdaws, and like

their ‘cousins’ the magpies, have beautiful feather colours, in the case of jays mostly pink, black,

white, and distinctive electric-blue wing panels. They live year-round in mainly broadleaf woodland, but also sometimes in heavily wooded suburbs. But you’re more likely to hear than see one (they screech), because they are notoriously secretive. The best time to see them, other than as a flash of colours, is about October in woodland, where, if you stand stock-still and are lucky, you might watch them feeding on the ground; if you twitch at all, they will be gone, almost literally in a flash. They are feeding mainly on acorns but may be seen carrying them off in

their beaks, because, being smart, they have a cunning plan to see them through the winter months by hiding them, mostly in the ground. They are expert at relocating their caches, but will not find them all, meaning some acorns will germinate and develop as new trees.

When acorns fall from oaks, they are food, not just for jays, but squirrels, mice, deer, even wild boar back in the day, and if the jays didn’t cache them far from the parent oak, they might all get eaten. Also, of course, if acorns did geminate beneath an adult parent oak, they wouldn’t thrive and probably would die in the shade. Oaks need jays to distribute their offspring, and jays need oaks to provide their food.

Nature is interwoven, and there are many examples of plants and animals which evolved critical relationships,

what

The oak, acorn and jay combo is just one of them. JVA

Top tips to enhance your mental well-being every day!

Reframe Unhelpful Thoughts:

Our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. Sometimes, we fall into patterns of unhelpful thinking. Recognize these patterns

and take steps to view things differently. Reframe negative thoughts to improve your mental health and well-being.

Example: Instead of

thinking, “I’m terrible at this,” try, “I’m learning and improving.”

Be Present (Practice Mindfulness): Take time to be aware

of yourself and the present moment. Mindfulness helps you gain perspective and reduces stress.

Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and the world around you.

Try This: Practice mindful breathing or meditation to stay in the present.

Prioritize Good Sleep: Quality sleep significantly impacts our mental and physical well-being. Ensure you get enough rest. Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a calming bedtime environment.

Tip: Avoid screens before bedtime and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

Connect with Others: Meaningful relationships are crucial for mental wellbeing. Spending time with friends, family, or talking about your feelings can prevent loneliness and improve your mental health.

Action: Reach out to someone you care about today.

Live a Healthy Life: Physical health and mental well-being are intertwined. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and staying hydrated

contribute to overall wellness.

Remember: A healthy body supports a healthy mind.

Self-Care Matters: Dedicate time for yourself. Engage in activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, painting, or taking a relaxing bath. Prioritize self-care to recharge and boost your mental resilience.

Self-Care Idea: Take a nature walk or listen to soothing music.

Write a Letter to Future

You: Reflect on your goals, aspirations, and positive affirmations. Write a letter to your future self, expressing encouragement and envisioning a brighter tomorrow.

Try It: Jot down your hopes and dreams for the future.

Remember, good mental health is an ongoing investment. These simple changes can make a significant difference in your well-being. Start today and take care of your mind just as you do your physical health.

scientists call a symbiosis.

Tickets available for 2024 Nuffield Farming Conference in Belfast

Tickets are now available for the 2024 Nuffield Farming Conference, to be held in Belfast on 19-21 November 2024.

The organisation’s flagship event will be held at several iconic locations throughout the city including the Belfast Assembly Rooms, Europa Hotel, and Titanic Belfast.

“Delegates at Belfast 2024 can look forward to a packed agenda covering the length and breadth of UK food, farming, rural and land-based industries,” says Wyn Owen, Chairman of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.

“The conference provides the opportunity to explore the future of agriculture, as well as the chance to network and socialise with other forward-thinking individuals from all corners of the industry. Tickets are open to all, and we invite anyone with an interest to join us for this special event.”

The three-day agenda features presentations from around 30 Nuffield

Scholars, talks from the first ever Next-Gen Scholars, a welcome buffet, local business tours and a formal annual dinner.

Tickets to ‘Belfast 2024’ are not just restricted to Scholars and are available to anyone with an interest in agriculture and associated industries.

The conference includes presentations from Nuffield Farming Scholars based in Northern Ireland, including Dr Jonny Hanson presenting ‘Large Carnivore reintroductions to Britain and Ireland: Farmer’s perspectives and management options’ plus local Next-Gen Scholars Bronagh Dempster, Ewan McCracken, and Kirsten Henry.

A full list of presenting scholars and their topics can be found at https:// www.nuffieldscholar. org/belfast2024/

presenting-scholars. For the second year running, AHDB have partnered with Nuffield Farming as the conference’s main sponsor. The conference is also supported

by Visit Belfast, Northern Ireland principal sponsor Fane Valley and media partner Farmers Guardian. Full details about the conference, including ticketing information,

can be found on the Trust’s website at https:// www.nuffieldscholar.org/ belfast2024. Tickets are now available to purchase at a discounted “early bird” price until 1st September.

Industry invests in CAFRE Agriculture students

The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) was delighted to host the Bursary and Scholarship Awards Ceremony for Agriculture degree students at Greenmount Campus on Friday 19 April 2024.

Over the years students at CAFRE have greatly gained from strong partnerships and generous financial backing from Agri-Food companies.

The 2024 Industry Support Programme at Greenmount Campus awarded £29,500 to students studying on Ulster University validated Bachelor’s Honours Degree and Foundation Degree courses, and Queen’s University Belfast BSc (Hons) Degree in Agricultural Technology students studying at CAFRE.

react to climate change and address industry challenges.”

CAFRE offers full-time and part-time Agriculture courses from Level 2 through to BSc (Honours)

Degree courses.

For further information on courses and how to apply for a course starting in September 2024 visit our website: www.cafre. ac.uk.

Thirteen first year students studying Agriculture degree courses, received a combined total of £19,500 in Bursary awards. Additionally, four second-year students were presented with a total of £10,000 in Scholarship awards, resulting in a substantial overall financial contribution of £29,500 from CAFRE’s industry partners.

In recognising the industry support offered to Greenmount Campus Agriculture students, second year, Honours Degree student Matthew

Sixteen companies presented awards to students which included ABP, Calor Gas Ltd, Dale Farm, Danske Bank, Fane Valley, Genus ABS, Gibson Trust, Irish Farmers Journal, John Thompson and Sons Ltd, Lakeland Dairies, LMC, Moy Park, Tyrone Farming Society, Ulster Farmers’ Union, Ulster Grassland Society and Yara.

Hall thanked the business representatives for their contribution to the programme.

Matthew commented:

“Today, we extend our gratitude to all the organisations that support us through Bursaries and Scholarships at Greenmount Campus in addition to the ongoing support you provide throughout the year.

From organising farm visits, to hosting guest speakers, participating in Careers Fairs, conducting mock interviews, and involving us in challenging projects, your contributions are truly valued.

“Your support plays a significant role in our development as we strive to become effective leaders to drive sustainability,

Future-proo F your home

Is your home geared up to support the needs of you and your family in the coming years? Ensure a sound structure. There’s little point investing in smart tech and eco-improvements to upgrade your home if the basics have not been met. Future-proofing your home starts with a sound structure that will last for many years. With a solid structure, the next step in futureproofing your home is to make sure it can be flexible to meet your

needs, both now and in the future. You need a home that can evolve as needs change. In practical terms, this means a home that has the potential to accommodate the needs of multigenerational living, that can offer versatility and accessibility. Here are four popular ways to do this:

Broken-plan layouts. The open-plan layout

is hugely popular in the UK. However, as property prices rise and people live longer, more families will likely come together under one roof. A broken-plan layout helps to accommodate the needs of a multigenerational family in the same home. While cooking and dining together in an open-plan kitchen-diner is great, older generations might appreciate a quieter

living area to relax. Similarly, many family members might crave a calm, tech-free zone. Broken-plan layouts help to create zones within an open-plan setup, offering a sense of separation within a shared space. This can be done with structural elements such as partition walls or sliding, moveable walls. It can also be done with distinct features such as furniture or different

flooring.

An extension. With the potential to house more family members under one roof in the future, an extension could be a worthy investment. A well-designed extension will typically add value to your home while also making the most of unused space. A side-return extension is a good example of this. Consider how your family will use the newly

extended space and build these factors into your plans. For example, in a kitchen extension, make the layout as spacious as possible to give everyone plenty of room to move around.

You could also build accessible elements into your kitchen design. If a home extension is not possible, why not consider a garden room?

A garden room offers tremendous versatility, extra space (outside of the main hubbub of the house), and they tend to add value to your property.

A conversion.

Remember, your home setup doesn’t have to remain static. Rooms can be converted to service different requirements as the need arises. Many of us will appreciate how our homes adapted during the pandemic to allow working from home. Going forward, you may wish to consider conversions that offer greater accessibility. For example, a second reception room could become a groundfloor bedroom, and a downstairs WC could be changed into an accessible wet room. Or perhaps you’re able to consider more major changes such as a loft, garage, or basement conversion.

For this and more information and inspiration see https:// www.checkatrade.com/ blog/expert-advice/ future-proof-your-home/

GreenThumb can ensure your lawn reaches its full potential

With warmer, longer days on the horizon, the beautiful colours of your garden are best enjoyed alongside a lush, green lawn.

As the centrepiece of your garden, GreenThumb will ensure your lawn reaches its full potential as a weedfree, healthy, and well-loved lawn.

Our ‘Summer Ready’ Treatment features a fully coated fertiliser designed to give your lawn a timed release of nutrition over several months, feeding your grass and stimulating growth. This sophisticated treatment also includes a weed control, keeping your lawn looking its best ready for summer. Now is also the perfect time for our Oasis treatment as it helps your soil to make the best use of any available moisture, meaning you’ll need to water up to 80% less. This popular treatment now features an innovative seaweed extract which has

proven to have an almost immediate effect on the colour of your lawn. At this time of year, we also recommend a regular mowing regime. Dry, sunny days are the best conditions for mowing, however it’s important that your mower blades are kept sharp to avoid causing damage to your grass.

It’s also important that your grass isn’t cut too short as this will weaken it, attracting unwanted weeds. When dry, we advise raising the height of your cut from 1” to 2” and give it a good drink the day after mowing.

Let’s create the lawn we both love.

Contact your local GreenThumb branch today on 028 9074 1133 or email belfast@greenthumb.co.uk

New GR Spo R t II lead S t oyota

H I lux 2024 l IN e-up

Order books are open for the 2024 Toyota Hilux range, led by the new Hilux GR Sport II. With even more powerful looks and benefiting from a series of technical adjustments, the GR Sport II celebrates Hilux’s formidable heritage as one of the world’s best-respected and most capable pickups, a status reinforced by multiple victories in the gruelling Dakar Rally.

The new model has a double cab body and is powered by Hilux’s proven, 2.8-litre unit that delivers 201bhp/204 DIN hp105kW with 500Nm, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. This is muscle enough for bestin-class towing (3,500kg) and payload (1,000kg).

This is the best-driving Hilux yet, on and off-road, thanks to the wider track, a raised ride height and improvements in handling characteristics, including a reduced roll angle and more precise steering

response. There is less noise and vibration and suspension and brakes have also been revised.

The styling changes include red coil springs and coloured dampers – black at the front and red at the rear, plus black overfenders. There are also new 17-inch black alloy wheels which strike a contrast with red brake callipers. They contribute to the vehicle’s performance too, with a lightweight design that’s aerodynamically efficient.

The specification includes an aero sport bar and a soft cover for the load area. The bodywork features both black badging and the GR Sport logo.

The GR Sport II further stands out with its black G-mesh upper and lower grilles, with the TOYOTA name spelled out in classic style. The black detailing theme continues with the side steps, mirrors, door handles, aero sport bar and rear bumper. A silver front under-run and distinctive GR Sport badging complete the look. The cabin complements the strong design with a black monochrome theme with red accents. Red seatbelts, paddle shifts and aluminium pedals reference the motorsport influence.

The sports seats are upholstered in a combination of black synthetic suede and leather with silver stitching and perforations.

accessed via an eightinch touchscreen display.

Users can also connect their smartphone or tablet to the system – wired or wirelessly if using Apple CarPlay or with a wired link for Android Auto.

The multimedia package includes access to cloud-based journey navigation, which uses constantly updated real-time traffic event information for accurate and efficient route planning.

There is also an embedded navigation system that can be used when no data connection to the cloud is available.

multimedia and safety system software tweaks or upgrades delivered seamlessly over the air, via the car’s data communications module (DCM).

Hilux Invincible

Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia

The Hilux GR Sport II is fitted with the Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system,

The GR logo is featured in the information display and instrumentation and there are new-look door trims.

Ford Focus St edition.

The GR Sport II is also equipped as standard with a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system. There is further convenience with future

The 2024 Hilux Invincible benefits from some specification upgrades, including the addition of smart entry, eight-inch multimedia touchscreen and a reversing camera. The revised range offers the Invincible Double Cab with the 2.4-litre engine and six-speed automatic transmission, or the 2.8-litre unit with manual transmission. The Invincible X uses the 2.8-litre engine and manual transmission.

Available to order now, on-the-road price £49,750

Ford today announced the most complete Ford Performance-developed Focus yet, with the introduction of the road- and track-ready Focus ST Edition.

Designed to reward enthusiast drivers with racecar responses at the circuit, while delivering the creature comforts of a high-specification family car for the school run or commute, Focus ST Edition represents the ultimate in usable and practical performance.

Available to order now in selected markets, the Focus ST Edition earns its Sports Technologies badge with advanced features including: Focus ST Edition is as comfortable getting owners to a track day as it is capable when it gets there, with the most popular option packs from the Focus ST range included as standard for quick getaways on frozen winter mornings, effortless highway cruising and premium audio for road trip soundtracks.

A unique Azura Blue exterior with High Gloss Black details, as well as Motion Blue interior highlights, add

unmistakeable exclusivity.

“The new Focus ST Edition represents the best of Ford Performance in a usable, everyday package,” said Stefan Muenzinger, Ford Performance manager, Europe. “Sports Technologies mean drivers don’t have to compromise on versatility but can still enjoy the thrill of a track day.”

Control and confidence

The Focus ST Edition’s adjustable suspension is delivered with a Ford Performance-developed setup, tested extensively across Europe including at Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife.

The two-way adjustable coilover suspension system, produced by motorsport specialists KW Automotive, features twin tube stainless steel damper housings and powder-coated springs.

Lowered 10 mm front and rear compared with the standard Focus ST for greater balance and control, a

further adjustment of 20 mm is available to the customer. Spring rates are increased by more than 50 per cent compared with the standard Focus ST.

Twelve jounce settings – the degree of upward damper movement allowed as the wheel contacts a bump in the road, and 16 rebound settings – the speed at which the damper returns to position after an upward movement, give Focus ST Edition drivers an even greater degree of control over cornering responses.

The Focus ST Edition is also supplied with a technical document providing recommended suspension settings for a variety of driving conditions – including specific settings for the Nordschleife – to help performance driving enthusiasts fine-tune their driving experiences.

Available exclusively in five-door hatchback and

six-speed manual gearbox configuration, the Focus ST Edition 1 features a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine with a lowinertia twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 280 PS 2, 3 at 5,500rpm and 420 Nm 2, 3 of torque from 3,000 rpm, resulting in 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Ready for the road

Being an enthusiast driver shouldn’t mean suffering a lack of creature comforts day to day. The Focus ST Edition features as standard

the option packs that Focus ST customers opt for most often, including sophisticated driver assistance systems.

The Driver Assist Pack includes Adaptive Cruise Control 4 with Speed Sign Recognition and Lane Centring, which is designed to make highway driving in particular less demanding, plus Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, 3 which supports the driver when manoeuvring.

Every Focus ST Edition is finished in Azura Blue – ex-

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

clusive to the model within the Focus ST range – complemented with High Gloss Black alloy wheels, roof, rear spoiler and diffuser, door mirrors and ST badge surrounds. Inside there is Motion Blue stitching for the Ford Performance seats, steering wheel, gear shift gaiter, centre console knee pads and floor mats. The Focus ST Edition joins the existing Focus ST line-up that offers five-door and wagon body styles with the option of a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Home Improvement jobs you def I n

need an expert for!

If you’ve got a problem at home and are wondering if it’s something you should or shouldn’t tackle, then take a look at our list of jobs you definitely need a professional for.

This list by no means covers everything, but it does answer the most

common queries we get on whether to hire a pro or not for a job.

Fixing a gas leak. In fact, anything to do with gas. You must legally be on the Gas Safe Register to deal with any gas appliances. Attempting to fix anything gas related can have serious effects on your health and the safety of others around you, not to mention the potential of an explosion

Removing asbestos. Asbestos is dangerous, so removing it is best

left to the professionals. Asbestos comes with serious health risks.

So much so that in 1999, the dangers of asbestos were officially recognised in the UK. All use of asbestos was banned. To have asbestos removed, you will need a qualified surveyor to carry out an inspection. This costs in the region of £200£1,000 (small flat –detached home) and they

will identify the type of asbestos in your home and any associated risks. Fitting a new bath. Whether you’re upgrading your entire bathroom, or you’re having issues with your current bathtub, you should definitely leave the installation of a new tub to a professional. Failure to do so could result in a leak in your home and a very unrelaxing soak in the tub! Many DIY bathtub installations have resulted in the bath not being sealed correctly, leading to severe leaks. Another bathtub DIY fail is the tub not being secured in place, so it ends up moving around or falls through the floor.

Foundation work.

The foundations of any building are the most important part of the structure. If the foundations are wrong, then the subsoil can spread and the structure can settle unequally, leading to structural problems down the line. Good foundations are a lot more than just digging a hole and pouring

some concrete in, it needs to be exactly right. The average cost to lay foundations will depend on the type of foundations needed.

Window installation.

A poorly fitted window leads to lots of problems. These include: Injury to yourself, your family, and people passing by Reduced home efficiency (energy loss, draughts and leaks) Lack of security Legal and insurance ramifications Structural issues and a poor finish (mould and mildew may appear) Avoid these risks and work with a professional window fitter. Tree removal. Cutting down a tree is dangerous work. Especially when you don’t know what you’re doing, lack the experience of removing a tree, and do not have the right equipment to do the job. Although there’s a risk of falling from a height, there’s also the risk of being hit by debris. And even if the falling debris misses you, other people, houses and vehicles

nearby may not be so lucky.

A professional tree surgeon will know exactly how to control the removal of your tree. They have the experience, they have the tools, and they know how best to cut a tree of any size. Even better, they will remove your tree much quicker than you would yourself.

Electrical work.

Electrical work, similar to gas work, requires a highly qualified professional to take on the job, due to safety reasons. Incorrect or unsafe wiring is dangerous. Not only is it a massive fire risk, but it could electrocute you, a member of your family, or guests Roof installation and repairs. Your roof protects you from the elements, but only if it has been installed or repaired correctly. Keeping it watertight and making sure there are no leaks is so important. A damaged roof can lead to lots of problems in your home, from damp, leaking ceilings to severe structural damage.

Patching it up yourself can be dangerous without the correct safety equipment.

Getting up onto the roof is a risk to yourself. Then once you’re there there’s also the risk that you do not patch up the roof correctly, meaning the damage will worsen over time

Pest infestations.

Spotting a pest in your home can be enough to make you want to lock up and throw away the key, never to return again. But don’t do that, the mice and rats haven’t won yet. Long gone are the days of having to set your own traps. Pest control specialists can have your home cleared of unwanted visitors quickly without you having to live in fear of living with whatever pest it may be. Prices usually start at around £120 to have mice and rats removed.

Pest controllers can also remove bedbugs, cockroaches and ants. Article used courtesy of: https://www. checkatrade.com/blog/ expert-advice/homejobs-you-shouldnt-doyourself/

How muc H value does a driveway add to a H ouse?

There are many benefits of having a driveway; providing easy access to your property, easily able to keep an eye on your car, effortlessly hop in and out whenever you need to, and they tend to be far easier to maintain than gardens or lawns.

Having a driveway can also potentially lower your car insurance premiums, compared to parking on the street.

But the key question is –does a new driveway add value to a house?

In most cases, yes it does. On average, it’s estimated that laying a driveway can add between 5-10% to the value of a property. So, depending on the factors above, this could mean the chance to add thousands of pounds to the listing price of your home.

Paved driveway value.

A paved driveway is an excellent choice for adding value to your home, as well as providing you with a great looking, highly functional driveway. Paved driveways create a smart first impression for any home. They offer a smooth, flat surface, but with the finer detail that comes with using a skilled

craftsperson. When laid and finished correctly, they simply scream quality. This says to future buyers that this is a quality driveway that will last for years, requiring hardly any maintenance. However, paved driveways aren’t the cheapest option, compared to the cost of other driveway materials. They take some time and skill to lay. However, you should end up with a quality finish that lasts for years and adds value to your home.

Concrete driveway value.

Concrete is much quicker to lay than other types of driveway, such as block paving for example. It can be easily poured into whatever design you have in mind, and even finished with an appealing imprinted pattern. The relative cheapness of concrete driveways means that it can initially be seen as

good value for money. However, concrete lacks the craftsmanship and fine detail of other paving types. Plus, concrete can often look as cheap and cheerful as it is. Unless maintained or resurfaced, its appearance can deteriorate significantly over time.This can affect its value, and the kerb appeal of your house.

Block paved driveway value. Block paved driveways have some serious kerb appeal. If installed with skill and care, they can look amazing.

You’ll have a huge range of design, colour and style options to choose from, all of which can enhance the exterior appearance of your property. Needless to say, this can add value. Block paving and cobblestones are also known to be very longlasting and quite easy to maintain. If any pavers come loose, they can be easily

repaired or replaced in small patches.

Durability is another plus point for potential buyers, along with low

maintenance. So, how much value does a driveway add when it’s made from block pavers? It all depends on how

much you spend – as it can be quite labour intensive to build a block paved driveway – and the quality of the finish.

Summer is on it’s way!

We can begin to look forward to long sunny days, evenings in the garden and alfresco lunches. To help you make the most of the (hopefully imminent) he atwave, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular jobs currently for homeowners across the UK. Installing air conditioning Air conditioning has hugely risen in popularity in the UK over the last few years. With heatwaves becoming more intense, people have needed a way to keep cool on those hot evenings in bed. And with more people now finding themselves working from home, air conditioning is a lifesaver for hot home offices.

The cost to install air conditioning in a house will depend greatly on the house itself and the type of air conditioning system you want to install, but on average, installing air con in a small home office is

between £1,750 – . For a double bedroom, you’re looking at an average installation cost of £2,250 – £3,000.

Fitting a ceiling fan

If air con isn’t your bag then consider installing a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans are a great way of circulating air around the room and creating a breeze to cool you down. They’re very economically friendly to run, costing less than a 100w bulb to run and equating to just pennies for a few hours of use. A ceiling fan could set you back in the region of £275 for both the fan itself and installation. Add window coverings. Whether it be blinds, shutters or curtains, window coverings are a great way to stay cool in the summer. Shutters could set you back around £240 per m² .

Installing a swimming pool

Picture this; it’s sizzling hot, the music’s playing, you’ve got a cold beverage and your toes are dipped in a refreshing pool.

It’s no secret that swimming pools are the hottest accessory of the summer.

If you fancy building your own slice of paradise without the need to jet off abroad to enjoy the poolside

lifestyle, then you can expect to pay, on average, £105,000 for an outdoor pool and £152,500 for an indoor pool dive into.

Fitting a hot tub Okay, we get it, a hot tub is hot, and not exactly the best way to cool down, but a hot tub is brilliant for those summer nights when the sun goes down and you want to make the most of the

Asphalt driveway value. Asphalt or tarmac driveways are quite cheap and quick to lay, and they can be a handy option if you need a basic solid flat surface without much fuss. In short, they provide a uniform appearance and can be a good shortterm solution. But they don’t look as appealing as other driveway types when finished.

A major issue is with maintenance and deterioration.This can affect how much value they add to your property, and how appealing your home will be to potential buyers.

Gravel driveway value. Gravel is one of the cheapest types of driveway to install, and it can also look very attractive.

Gravel driveways are also good from a security perspective.

Many people like them because they aren’t permanent, unlike tarmac or concrete, so you

could choose a different driveway later on. You’ll need to find a way to manage the stones, so they don’t end up all over the street, and gravel driveways are no use at all on sloping sites. In terms of adding value to your property, gravel is a pretty decent option. You won’t spend much on it, there aren’t any worries about durability and it can be aesthetically pleasing to buyers. And there’s always the opportunity to install a different driveway later on.

How much would it cost to re-do your driveway?

The cost of your driveway will really depend on the size of your drive and the style of driveway you choose. Costs vary from £30 – £90/m2.

For this and more home inspiration see https:// www.checkatrade.com/ blog/expert-advice/ how-much-value-doesdriveway-add-house/

garden. A hot tub can cost between £2,800 – £21,700 to purchase. And if you want to take it to the next level, why not consider turning your garden into a Love Island paradise?

Installing an irrigation system Take the labour out of watering your garden and treat your plants to an irrigation system. Not only

does it take on a job for you, but it also provides plants and lawns with the care they need over the warm summer months. The cost of installing an irrigation system will depend on the size of your garden, where it’s being installed and if you’re having a sprinkler system or drip irrigation system. You should look to budget between £250 – £315