The Ards Advertiser 205

Comber gets a new defibrillator

Musgrave Northern Ireland has announced that it has invested £65,000 in installing Automated External Defibrillators (AED) at various sites across its locations in Northern Ireland, including at Supervalu, Comber.

A total of 34 lifesaving defibrillators have been installed by MK Medical inside all SuperValu and Centra stores owned by the company, as well as Musgrave MarketPlace sites, Musgrave’s headquarters on Dargan Drive and drinks wholesaler, Drinks Inc on Boucher Road, Belfast.

SuperValu and Centra stores included are located across the region, including Banbridge, Belfast, Carrickfergus, Cookstown, Dungiven, Armagh, Limavady and many more.

Defibrillators have the potential to save the lives of staff and customers, with latest research showing that accessing these devices within 3-5 minutes of a cardiac arrest increases the chance of survival by over

Big g uide Launched

A new 65-page Big Guide to Age Friendly Ards and North Down has been published by Ards and North Down Borough Council with the support of Ards and North Down’s Age Friendly Alliance.

Unveiled by Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas at Bangor’s City Hall, the guide is designed for all ages and is packed full of useful information, including a directory of support services, details on how to access them, and where to go for help if someone has a specific problem.

Based on feedback received from a survey of older people, the guide was produced as a hardcopy with a

focus on assistance for older people, easier access to mental health services and help to reconnect people, with guidance on how to stay safe at home and how to avoid being the victim of a scam. An online version is also available on the Council website at www. ardsandnorthdown.gov.

uk/thebigguide Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said:

“The Council’s Big Plan, a community plan that details how we want to make life better for everyone living in Ards and North Down, gave the commitment that through our statutory, voluntary and community partnerships, Ards and North Down would be Age Friendly. The publication of our Big Guide is yet another step towards making our Borough an even better place to live and grow older.”

Pick up a copy of the guide in our public buildings or access a digital copy of the guide on our website www. ardsandnorthdown. gov.uk/thebigguide. Requests for hard copies can also be submitted to agefriendly@ ardsandnorthdown.gov. uk or by contacting 0300 013 3333. For more information, visit https://www. ardsandnorthdown.gov. uk/resident/community/ the-big-guide

40%.

Trevor Magill, Managing Director of Musgrave NI, said,

“Our stores across Northern Ireland are at the heart of their communities and we’re proud to provide a potential lifeline to them in an emergency with the installation of defibrillators at our Musgrave-owned SuperValu and Centra stores. Timing is crucial when dealing with a cardiac arrest, therefore having direct access to a defibrillator whether in our stores or office locations, could be lifesaving.”

To learn more about how to use a defibrillator please visit www.sja. org.uk/get-advice/ first-aid-advice/how-to/ how-to-use-a-defibrillator/

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas with Age Friendly Alliance Members, Gary Hill Libraries NI and Dorothy Beattie AGEnda.

Ards A nd n orth d own Pu P ils le A rn to ‘Bee sA fe’

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, visited Ards Arena Youth Resource Centre at the end of a two-week BeeSafe educational programme that hosted over 1,000 pupils from 39 schools across the Borough. The programme was funded by Ards and North Down Police and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Ards and North Down Community Safety, and the Public Health Agency.

BeeSafe is a project aimed at Primary 7 children that is designed to promote community and personal safety while reducing antisocial behaviour within the Borough.

Topics covered during the two-week programme included Bus Safety, Fire Safety, Home Safety, Internet Safety, Anti-Social Behaviour and Mental Health.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said:

“This is an exciting

time for all Year 7 students as they near the end of primary school and get ready to move to the next stage in their academic paths. This can be a little bit daunting but BeeSafe helps to equip and prepare them for the transition. I hope they all enjoyed the programme and wish them well in their future

studies.”

The Chair of Ards and North Down PCSP, Councillor Rachel Woods, said:

“BeeSafe is a fantastic project for teaching children and young people about the various dangers they may face as part of everyday life. It teaches them how to stay safe while out

and about as well as helping them to consider pressures they may face online and in their transition to secondary education. I am delighted that so many children from Ards and North Down have been able to attend. I have no doubt that what they learn will help them to ‘BeeSafe’.”

LOCALS SHINE AT HILLSBOROUGH CEREMONY

Two local people have been honoured at a formal ceremony at Hillsborough Castle for their roles in the Army Cadet Force and Reserve Forces.

Ballygowan teenager

Katie Parker was appointed to the role of His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for the County of Down while Comber man, Staff Sergeant Paul Elwood awarded the Lord Lieutenant’s Certificate for Outstanding Meritorious Service Above and Beyond

The Call of Duty, one of the highest accolades that can be conferred on members of the Reserve Forces and Cadet movement.

Katie, an energetic and enthusiastic Cadet Corporal

with her local Ballygowan Detachment Army Cadet Force, is one of twelve Lord Lieutenants’ Cadets appointed across Northern Ireland. The year-long post is largely ceremonial and Katie can expect a busy year ahead as she accompanies Mr Gawn Rowan-Hamilton, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for the County of Down, on major civic occasions. In recognition of her appointment, Katie will be entitled to wear a special insignia on her cadet uniform.

The Citation which accompanies Katie’s appointment describes the lively 15-year-old Grosvenor Grammar School student as ‘a fantastic role model for her peers and a great ambassador for the Army Cadets.’ It praises Katie for an enthusiasm which transcended pandemic restrictions and notes that Katie who joined the Cadets just before lockdown never missed a night of ‘virtual’

training!

Despite pandemic restrictions Katie also took part in fundraising for the Northern Ireland Hospice, running, cycling and walking from home to play her part in raising almost two thousand pounds for the charity.

A keen sportswoman, Katie has flourished postpandemic, enjoying her sporting and Cadet activities to the full and earning a selection to the Northern Ireland team competing in the National Army Cadet Football Championships.

At the same ceremony

Staff Sergeant Paul Elwood’s exceptional commitment to the Reserve Forces earned him praise and recognition.

Staff Sergeant Elwood has served as Reserve Battery Master of 206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery for fifteen years, playing a key role in every Royal Gun Salute fired over that time, marking a

multitude of special Royal occasions.

In 2022 he was on holiday when he heard the news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. Recognising the significance to the Battery, he immediately cut short his vacation and returned in order to prepare the guns and staff to perform the solemn Gun Salute which marked her passing.

He worked throughout the night and well into the next day to ensure that the Royal Salute fired at Hillsborough Castle was perfect in every respect. Later, he was also part of the final firing party as His Majesty The King and Her Majesty, The Queen Consort visited Hillsborough Castle. The Citation which accompanies his award

praises Staff Sergeant Elwood for his unceasing work throughout lockdown and concludes ‘Staff Sergeant Elwood continually and often without assistance works tirelessly in preparation for Battery events, be it training, inspection, Salutes or other public events. We recognise him for his commitment and dedication to service.’

S UCCESS O f S OCIAL E NTER p RISE pROGRAMME (ANDSE p) M AR k ED AT C LOSING Ev ENT

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s successful Ards and North Down Social Enterprise Programme (ANDSEP), which has been supporting social business ventures in the area since 2016, has come to a successful conclusion with a closing event held in Helen’s Bay Walled Garden.

ANDSEP was a tailored specialist support programme that offered business development support to local social enterprises, helping them to start up, develop and grow sustainably.

Through the programme, ANDSEP supported over 90 social business ventures and created more than 75 jobs within the Borough.

The programme was developed in partnership with delivery agent Work West, which provided tailored advice and support to social enterprises. It offered a

range of support services, including one-to-one mentoring, workshops, and networking opportunities.

A closing event marked the programme’s success where participants reflected on their experiences with ANDSEP and discussed the impact the programme has had on their business ventures. Many spoke about how the programme helped them to build their confidence, develop their skills, and grow their social enterprises.

The Mayor of Ards and

North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said:

“ANDSEP has been a vital programme for social enterprises in our area, and we are proud of the support we have provided to help businesses to develop and grow. We are pleased to see the positive impact it has had on our local community, and we wish all our participants every success in the future.”

In addition to the support provided by ANDSEP, social enterprises were also referred to other supporting organisations, including In-

vest NI, to help them access further funding and support. The programme has been instrumental in promoting and developing social enterprises in the Ards and North Down area, making a significant contribution to the local economy. The closing event marked the culmination of a successful initiative that has helped many to grow and thrive in the area. Further information about ANDSEP and other business support programmes can be found at https://www.andbusiness.co.uk

Careers e xposition held at e nniskillen Campus

The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) held a Careers Exposition as part of the annual Careers Day at Enniskillen Campus.

This year brought a return to a faceto-face event after Covid restrictions in previous years.

Careers Day is one of a range of activities organised at Enniskillen Campus to

help students prepare for their future in the equine industry. Head of Equine Branch, Jane Elliott said: “I firmly believe that one of the key aspects influencing the success of

Enniskillen students is the excellent support which we receive from the industry locally, across the Island and indeed further afield.”

Equine businesses and organisations from near and far

enjoyed the buzz of the afternoon, while students, including some from the Ards area, gleaned knowledge and insight into a wide variety of career options in the equine industry.

CAFRE Enniskillen Campus Level 3 Students Flo Dowds (Lisburn), Courtney Carlisle (Killinchy), Aoife Gribben (Armagh) and Hollie McCoubrey (Newtownards) pictured with Stacey McDonnell, Equuip.

NI homebu I lder spo N sors the 2023 Comber Farmers’ m arket

Comber Farmers’ Market 2023 has returned this year bigger and better than ever before as Hagan Homes renews its sponsorship of the event.

The Ballyclare homebuilder, which is constructing the local Enler Village housing development, previously supported the awardwinning Comber Farmers’ Market until the pandemic hit and forced it to cease trading. It returned in 2022.

Now Hagan Homes is pledging its support for what is the ninth year the market has taken place.

Running on the first Thursday of every month, Comber Farmers’ Market features produce from local growers, small producers, makers and recently introduced artisan craft.

It was started by Comber Regeneration Community Partnership in a bid to regenerate Comber and create an opportunity for local growers and food producers to sell their goods as well as increasing footfall to the town.

The result has been an influx of visitors and tourists to the town which has clearly helped to put Comber on the map. This year there will be up to 26 market traders.

‘’Hagan Homes’ return as the sponsor will further grow and develop the market’’, said Philip Smith, Chair of Comber Regeneration Community Partnership (CRCP). The Famers Market is a project of CRCP:

“Comber Farmers’ Market has grown so much since the first event in July 2014, and as a result we have an award-winning monthly artisan food event that attracts thousands of visitors a year, putting Comber firmly on the food tourism map for NI. With much thanks to Hagan Homes for their renewed two year sponsorship, we can take Comber Farmers’ Market to the next level letting existing and new visitors enjoy the spoils of the very finest food and produce from Northern Ireland.”

Hagan Homes is well underway with multiple construction stages of its Enler Village development in Comber, which will create 900 homes, a business park, a nursing home, sheltered accommodation, a creche and retail units. Additional features include linked pedestrian facilities with Comber Town Centre and extended saltmarsh.

Comber Farmers’ Market is held on the first Thursday of the month from 9am - 1.30pm in St Mary’s Parish Church car park, the Square, Comber. This year there will be over 26 regular traders selling artisan

food and plants.

The range includes bread, cheeses, vegetables, fruit, cakes, traybakes, tarts, quiches, eggs, olives, jams, chutneys, fish, dry cured bacon, sausages, gammon, kid-goat meat,

flowers, bedding plants, chocolate, sauces, and oils. In addition, the ladies of St Mary’ church catering committee provide morning tea, coffee and homemade scones, buns and biscuits in the church hall.

Provision of Urgent and Emergency Care Services in Ards and North Down

The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has gone out to Public Consultation about the future model of Urgent and Emergency Care in the Ards and North Down Area.

The proposal is to develop a new Consultant led Urgent Care Centre, alongside

the Emergency Department at the Ulster Hospital. In order to achieve

this, the Trust is proposing to close the Minor Injuries Units in both the Ards and Bangor Community Hospitals.

At a recent Council meeting, grave concerns were raised about the possible implications this will have for people seeking to access medical care in the Ards and North Down Borough.

The Council encourages all local residents to engage

with the consultation process and to respond as part of the campaign to retain these important services. The consultation will close on 3 May 2023.

A copy of the consultation document and information on the consultation process can be found on the Trust’s website at the following link: https://setrust. hscni.net/getinvolved/ consultations/

Council’s SHINE Programme Concludes after Creating 170 Jobs

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s SHINE Programme successfully concluded in March with a closing event held at Bangor’s Signal Centre.

The SHINE Programme was the principal business support and growth initiative run by the Council. It was a tailored specialist support programme designed to provide micro and small companies with mentoring support to develop and sustain their businesses.

Since 2019, the programme helped to create 170 jobs and delivered more than 3000 hours of mentoring to nearly 200 participants.

It included 24 workshops, both in person and online, that provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of different business aspects. In addition, eight businesses were referred to Invest NI, and 39 to other supporting organisations, which contributed to their success.

Through the mentoring and workshops, SHINE participants achieved various types

of growth, including a focus on long-term goals, problem-solving, business planning, brand identity, sales and marketing planning, development of skills, time management, and enhanced self-confidence.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said:

“We are delighted with the impact that SHINE has had on local businesses.

The programme has

provided invaluable support to micro and small businesses in the Borough, helping them to grow and thrive. The success of the programme is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Economic Development Staff and delivery partner Brilliant Red, and we are proud to have been able to support our local business community in this way.”

The closing event

featured guest speaker, Frank Diamond, who represented the All Lives Are Precious (ALPS) charity. His presentation provided valuable insights on how to develop and maintain a healthy workplace environment.

More information about the SHINE Programme can be found at AND Business | Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Economic Development Department

Pictured at the SHINE closing event are Avril Linden (Brilliant Red), Karine McGuckin (Economic Development), Mayor Karen Douglas, Mandy Patrick (MP Consulting) and Owen Byrne (Donard Bikes).

Camera technology in GP practices helping to save lives

3,000 patients who were red flagged as suspected skin cancer patients were identified via the use of camera technology in GP practices between March and December last year.

The Dermatology

Photo Triage referral pathway involves the use of a camera to take high quality pictures of a patient’s skin irregularity or mole at their initial appointment with the GP. These images are then sent electronically to a skin specialist at a hospital. It means a patient is able, through the use of technology, to obtain a rapid diagnosis and treatment plan from a consultant

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

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

without having to attend a hospital.

From March to December 2022, a total of 3,314 referrals were made to Dermatology services in the five Health and Social Care Trusts via this pathway. Of these, 3159 patients were red flagged, with the rest classified as urgent, routine or discharged with advice.

Permanent Secretary Peter May said: “These figures show how

successful this pathway has been in identifying patients who have early symptoms of skin cancer. It has the additional benefit that patients can be seen at their GP without having to go to hospital.”

96% of GP practices in Northern Ireland have signed up to provide this service.

Dr Peter McHugh, from the GP West Belfast Federation commented: “My experience with the photo triage process has been really positive with responses to referrals within days. It is the most positive change to referral process that I have encountered.”

The Dermatology Photo Triage referral pathway started as a pilot in 2018 and has now been rolled out across GP practices in Northern Ireland.

An award-winning service offering hassle-free travel with very generous baggage allowance, HANNON Coach & Sail is ideal for an Easter or Summer city break in Glasgow. The HANNON Coach Belfast – Glasgow Express Service is the perfect antidote to flying and airport stress! Already hugely popular with those in the know, the service is rated 5-Star on TripAdvisor.

A shopper’s paradise, Glasgow is recognised as having the best retail therapy in the UK outside of London. Consistently voted ‘top of the shops’, the city is Scotland’s premier shopping destination. Not just shopping, Glasgow is also famous for its fantastic nightlife, and great choice of restaurants and bars, perfect for your next city break away. With a simple flat fare of £44 which includes the cost of the ferry and a very generous baggage allowance the Belfast – Glasgow Express offers a really attractive, convenient and low-cost

alternative to flying.

The service is operated by HANNON Coach and leaves twice a day from Belfast, Europa Bus Station and drops visitors right in the heart of Glasgow City Centre.

The simple flat fare allows passengers to pick and mix dates and times of travel to suit and with no luggage charges it makes a perfect travel option for city shoppers. There are also a great range of hotels just minutes from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station.

Company director Aodh Hannon says people seem to really love the

convenience of the service as we take you right into the heart of the city centre.

“People love the fact that it’s so hassle-free compared to flying, no airport transfers and with no extra charge for luggage it is a massive help with keeping the cost of a break down.” said Mr Hannon.

The 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

Contraception made simple – online delivery service now available

A service that allows women and girls aged 16 and over to order their contraception online and get it delivered discreetly to their door is now fully operational across Northern Ireland following a successful pilot last year.

The service is funded by Health and Social Care and delivered by SH:24 – a free online sexual health service –and can be used to order the pill, the mini-pill and emergency contraception (‘the morning after pill’). The morning after pill is also available for free from many pharmacies across Northern Ireland.

Dr Rachel Coyle, Consultant at the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: “SH:24 makes it

easier for women to manage their sexual health and provides a flexible way to access contraception. A woman can order contraception from home, from work or from wherever is convenient – the service fits into busy, modern lives.

Feedback shows this is particularly welcome for women with caring responsibilities who find it difficult to get to clinics with fixed appointment times. Some

women may also feel embarrassed or struggle to know where they can access contraception quickly and easily. This service enables users to visit www.sh24. org.uk, choose their contraception, and have it to delivered to their home free of charge.

“It is a simple as filling in an online form which is then assessed by the SH:24 clinical team, who review the order and approve if it is appropriate. The

contraception is then dispensed by SH:24’s partner pharmacy and delivered to the person’s home. They do not need to be home to receive it. Along with the medication, there are written instructions on how to take it. Women can also order a free STI test at the same time.

“If there are any health reasons why a particular pill might not be a good choice for a you, you will receive a call from an SH:24

doctor or nurse who will talk to you and decide whether the pill is safe to prescribe or not. If not, they will advise of other, safer options or ask you to go to a clinic to discuss other forms of contraception.”

The new system has been co-designed by service designers, clinicians and women who currently use contraception clinics. The service follows the launch of SH:24’s online sexually

A new era for Lisburn Hearing Centre

Lisburn Hearing Centre is under new management as Scottish audiologist, Colin I’Anson, has bought the business from founder and owner, David Parkinson.

David founded Lisburn Hearing in 2006, and the business has served the local community ever since.

New owner, Colin, qualified as a hearing aid audiologist in 2007 and has 16 years of experience working at House of Hearing in Edinburgh specialising in the fitting of bespoke hearing solutions and wax removal. Colin moved to Lisburn with his family in the summer of 2022 and began working part-time at Lisburn Hearing shortly after he arrived.

Colin said:

“It’s been great to be made to feel so welcome and to get to meet so many people here in Lisburn. I was immediately

impressed by the friendly professionalism of the team at Lisburn Hearing and really enjoyed the interaction with the customers. Being an audiologist is very rewarding as you get to meet so many people and you can make such a big difference to people’s hearing and quality of life.”

Colin took over Lisburn Hearing on 4th April and has no immediate plans to make major changes. “It’s really exciting to be taking over such a well established and customer focussed business. I’m delighted that David has agreed to remain working on a parttime basis to assist us in a smooth transition, ensuring Lisburn Hearing customers

and families always continue to receive a first class service from us. The company has been here in Lisburn providing a valuable service through thick and thin, throughout the pandemic, despite the arrival of large chains. Providing a personal and consistent service continues to be our priority and this will continue to set us apart in the future.”

David says: “I know Colin will continue with the ethos of the business that I started and will bring a breath of fresh air with his youthfulness and enthusiasm. He has an excellent understanding of the brilliant hearing aids available now, with additional benefits I

couldn’t have imagined when I started in this business!”

For more information

Tel: (0)28 9264 0302, email lisburnhearing@

btconnect.com or see www. lisburnhearingcentre.co.uk.

Lisburn hearing Centre is at 2a Smithfield Square, Lisburn, County Antrim BT28 1HT

transmitted infection (STI) testing service last year, which allows users to simply order a free and discreet home STI test.

For more information or to order your free discreet contraception or STI test visit www.sh24.org.uk Information on looking after your sexual

health, symptoms of STIs, and information on STIs which may be symptomless, can be found at www. sexualhealthni.info

Colin I’Anson, has bought Lisburn Hearing Centre from founder and owner, David Parkinson.

Volunteer Now set to celebrate and inspire ahead of Volunteers’ Week 2023

Volunteers’ Week 2023 is taking place 1-7 June, so Volunteer Now is calling on communities and businesses in County Down to give volunteering a go and be the change that we want to see as it gears up for this year’s Volunteer’s Week festivities.

Now in its 39th year, Volunteers’ Week is an annual event which sees charities, voluntary groups, social organisations, and volunteers themselves come together to recognise the incredible impact that volunteering

has in communities around the UK.

With the theme set for this year’s week-long celebration - ‘Celebrate and Inspire’ – volunteer organisations across the UK will aim to highlight diversity in volunteering and demonstrate the

many ways everyone can get involved with volunteering.

Each year, the annual celebrations recognise and reward the work and efforts of volunteers who are active at the heart of every community, whilst acknowledging their important contribution to our local communities, the voluntary sector and society as a whole.

As with previous years, hundreds of events, both online and in-person, will take place across the UK and Northern Ireland to celebrate Volunteers’ Week and the huge range of ways in which volunteers give their time. From volunteer recruitment events to open days, celebrations

to recognition events, there are many ways for everyone to take part and come together for this year’s campaign.

Ahead of the celebrations, Volunteer Now, the lead organisation for volunteering in Northern Ireland, is calling out for new volunteer recruits and encouraging everyone in County Down to give volunteering a go this spring.

Denise Hayward, Chief Executive at Volunteer Now commented: “Volunteers have continued to give so much time, energy, commitment and skills to the communities and organisations that

Helens Bay Dental is growing!!

they have supported however it is now more important than ever that we encourage more people to give a little bit of time to the wonderful organisations that make such a positive difference to our Northern Ireland community. It is fitting that Volunteers Week 2023 will give everyone the opportunity to Celebrate the ongoing commitment but also to encourage more people to say that all important ‘yes’.”

With around 282,000 formal volunteers carrying out work with designated organisations and 470,000 informal volunteers, volunteering plays a significant role across the region. Each year, volunteers across Northern Ireland carry out work worth more than half a billion pounds and contribute £504 million to the local economy. Voluntary organisations in Northern Ireland do work worth more than half a billion pounds a year. For more information on how to get involved, please visit volunteernow.co.uk and follow #VolunteersWeek and @volunteernow1

Helens Bay Dental Practice has been locally owned and operated by the Small family for 28 years providing all your dental care in state of the art facilities in Station Square, Helens Bay with on site parking and close to the train station and beach

They have been offering Dental implant solutions to replace missing teeth for more than 20 years, the experienced team of clinicians providing 1000s of implants. Another popular treatment is Invisalign a solution for crooked or crowded teeth. Invisalign has been offered here by Dr

Sarah Lochhead for over 18 years.

The team has grown in recent time and now consists of 24 highly trained and caring, clinicians and support team utilising 5 beautiful newly fitted treatment rooms

Helens Bay Dental offer bespoke membership plans to allow patients to maintain optimum

dental health for life. If you would like to know more they offer a complimentary visit to see all this for yourself and to discuss how modern digital dentistry can change your smile! Contact the team on 02891853304, info@ helensbaydental. co.uk or on social media, Instagram and Facebook

Get ready for The Balmoral Show!

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

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

With so much happening over the 4 days, you’ll be entertained from dawn to dusk. We have arranged our programme so that many activities are on

several times a day, this means you can catch them when it suits you.

Pick up a copy of the free Map & Timetable when you arrive at the Show or check online in advance. There are hundreds of quality trade stands brimming with lovely things to buy including homeware, garden furniture, fashion, artwork and jewellery. The Eikon Shopping Village has everything from food to furnishings, coats to ceramics and shoes to sweaters.

Disabled parking is available for people in possession of a blue badge, this is on a first come first served basis. Please note, a car parking charge of £10

is applicable. There are disabled access toilets across the site as well as a high dependency changing unit.

The Show opening times

Farm sa F ety checklist

Agriculture has one of the highest fatal accident rates of any industry in Northern Ireland and is also the only high risk industry that has to deal with the constant presence of children.

As a parent there are a number of things you can do to help prevent your child having an accident - the following checklist should help.

• Farm safety checklist for parents

• have a safe and secure play area for young children

• prevent children from playing in or around farmyards and livestock

• make sure your vehicles have good all-round visibility

for 2023 are as follows;

Wednesday: 9:30am - 6:00pm

Thursday: 9:30am - 8:00pm Friday: 9:30am

- 7:00pm Saturday: 9:30am - 6:00pm

For more info see https://www. balmoralshow.co.uk

• prevent all children under 13 years from riding on tractors and farm machinery

• restrict the use of the quad and provide suitable safety equipment

• secure all heavy wheels, gates, heavy equipment and stacked materials to prevent them from toppling over

• ensure your slurry lagoon is securely fenced to prevent children from gaining access and make sure

tank covers are always in place

• always keep children well away when mixing slurry

• keep track of where family members are playing or working and when they are expected back

• make sure everyone washes their hands before eating and drinking

• keep chemicals locked

in a secure store when not in use

• make sure that guards are in place to prevent access to dangerous parts of machinery

• make sure all family members know what to do in an emergency

• prepare a list of emergency contact telephone numbers

The Farm Safety Foundation has also produced a guidance document aimed at the parents of children who live on farms. It contains lots of excellent farm safety advice: see http://yellowwellies.org/FarmSafetyMessage_Parents_1020/ flipbook/?page=1

Do you know your seaweed?

Irish Moss aka Carrageen

Carrageen or Scientific name Chondrus crispus is a small reddish-purple seaweed which grows in small branching fans on rocky shores.

It is widely used in the food industry - and might have been used to produce your ice cream, beer or even jelly!

Growing up to 20cm this is a Common seawood and can be spotted around our local shores and estuaries all year round!

Carrageen is a common

seaweed found on rocky shores and in estuaries. It is small and branching and is also known as Irish Moss. It is usually reddishpurple in colour, though is can be a greenishyellow. The fronds may appear iridescent when submerged and can turn green if exposed to bright sunlight for prolonged periods. It does not have air bladders.

Carrageen is harvested commercially for its carrageenan - a polysaccharide molecule that is used in the food industry for gelling and thickening. So, it might be in your ice cream or have been used for fining

Tullywest Manor is celebrating over 30 years in business!

Tullywest Manor is situated in a beautiful rural setting, overlooking the hills, lakes and farmlands of the Co. Down countryside.

your beer or wine! It has been used since the 15th Century and is a vegan alternative to gelatin. Seaweeds provide a vital link in the food chain for many of our rarer species. Our seas and coastline are in need of protection if we are to keep our marine wildlife healthy.

The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of ‘Living Seas’, where marine wildlife thrives. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.

https://www. ulsterwildlife.org/ wildlife-explorer/marine/ seaweeds-and-seagrass/ carrageen

It opened its doors to its first residents on 17th March 1989. The aim is to provide high quality services catering for the individual needs of each resident, ensuring that privacy, dignity and respect of each resident is maintained at all times.

Residents coming into care here encouraged to maintain their normal social interests, hobbies and outings with relatives and friends as well as participate in activities and outings arranged by the home

Residents views and suggestions for social activities, outings are sought at Resident meetings and actioned if appropriate

Tullywest Manor features a large lounge, dining room, entrance hall with seating area and a spacious conservatory, where residents can circulate and meet with each

other and relatives. Each tastefully decorated bedroom, most with en-suite, offers complete privacy where residents are encouraged to express their own personal tastes.

Tullywest recognises the need for a personcentred approach to care. Encouraging

staff to learn more about the Residents lives helps us tailor our care to each individual need.

Tullywest Manor recognises that residents are individuals with family and relatives of their own and encourage this bond to continue. They aim to create a comfortable

atmosphere of homeliness happiness and caring.

12 Tullywest Rd, Saintfield, Ballynahinch BT24 7LX

Telephone: (028)

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

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

A murder of crows.

A gaggle of geese. A charm of goldfinches (my favourite). But the question I ask about warblers is a wee bit tongue in cheek because we seldom see them in flocks. Yes, they must ‘flock together’ to some extent when they fly here every spring from southern Europe or Africa and return in late summer, but, at least while they’re here to breed, they live separate, territorial lives. There are many warbler species, but I’m only going to cover the three most common, those

you’re most likely to hear, chiffchaff, willow warbler and blackcap. And when I say ‘hear’ rather than ‘see’, that’s because they’re very good at not being seen. They’re small, and particularly chiffchaff and willow warbler plumage is a mix of muted green, brown and yellow, enough to fade into the foliage of the woodland where they live. Even blackcaps, which, yes, do have a black cap (females have a brown one) are hard to spot. But their songs and calls are, for me, the essential sounds of spring

when trees are in leaf. Of course, I love the songs of robins, blackbirds and thrushes, often performed where we can see them, but warblers are something else, their songs and calls echoing through woodland and waterside scrub as they proclaim their territory and seek females to join them.

I particularly love the chiffchaff song, even if it’s just pretty much a repetition of its name… chiffchaff, chiffchaff… because it carries such a long way. The willow warbler’s song is much more ‘musical’, a trilling

Make memories 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.

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

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

JVA

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.

Book early by calling Chestnutt Holiday Parks on 028 417 62653. Online Touring Booking available @ www. chestnuttholidayparks. com

5 ‘Must Visit’ locations in a rds

Millisle Beach Park

Located on the Ards Peninsula’s east coast, this is a popular location for day trips to the beach, with excellent seaside facilities.

The man-made sea lagoon is refreshed by seawater at every high tide, there is a large car park, many picnic tables, promenade, green spaces and stretches of natural shoreline for exploring. The southern half of the shoreline is sandy, ideal for sandcastles and paddling, while the northern half is a rocky shoreline, with many rock-pools for exploring. The area has been awarded Seaside Awards for its facilities and water quality, please take care when visiting as there is no lifeguard service at Millisle Beach.

Children should be sure to visit the Pirate Ship and Play-park, where they can burn off some extra energy before heading home!

Scrabo Tower

At the top of Scrabo Hill, overlooking Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down, is Scrabo Tower. The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks and the views from the top are spectacular. Inside the tower you can see an exhibition and short video detailing its history.

Scrabo Country Park is centred at the top of Scrabo Hill near Newtownards and boasts incredible views over

Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside. There are plenty of paths through the fine beech woodlands of Killynether Wood and around the disused quarries allowing visitors many opportunities to enjoy the quiet and peaceful countryside.

Universal Pictures filmed several scenes of Dracula Untold at Scrabo Country Park & Killynether Wood. This was one of many of the locations used for filming across Northern Ireland.

Mount Stewart

Mount Stewart, located on the shores of Strangford Lough, is Northern Ireland’s much loved family home. Following a three year £8 million restoration programme, this 19thcentury house has been significantly transformed, making it a must-see attraction on the island of Ireland.

Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator. Edith, Lady Londonderry’s passion for bold planting schemes coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough allows rare and tender plants from across the globe to thrive in this celebrated garden. Each of the formal gardens exudes a distinct character and appeal.

Mount Stewart is a

delight for the senses with a series of formal themed garden compartments around the house including The Italian, Spanish, Mairi and Shamrock Garden.

Further afield visitors can enjoy the beautifully landscaped and informal grounds surrounding the picturesque lake walk. There is opportunity to view the restoration of the walled rose garden, gradually being brought back to life and walk amongst the many ferns in our recently extended Fernery.The Shamrock Garden reflects Edith’s love of Irish mythology and the topiary surmounting the Shamrock hedge is a beautifully depicted children’s story. Visitors can keep an eye out for the topiary statue being created depicting a Formorian (a half human, half demon) that is associated with Strangford Lough. For a different view

of Mount Stewart, stroll around miles of new walking trails and discover a landscape lost in time.

Taking in the stunning view from the Temple of the Winds, our trails will take you through magical woodland and farmland, set within an iconic rolling drumlin landscape beside Strangford Lough.

Nendrum

Nendrum is thought to have been set up by St Machaoi in the 5th Century and also has links to St Patrick in later sources. The monastery consists of 3 round dry stone walled enclosures, one within the other. There is evidence of industrial works in the outer enclosure; a central enclosure with a church ruin and sundial, the remains of a round tower and a graveyard. The middle enclosure has the remains of huts and workshops.

It is thought to be the best example of a pre-

Norman monastic site in Northern Ireland. Exploris, Portaferry Exploris Aquarium showcases marine life from around the world. You can learn about the lough and Irish Sea and the native species within, along with learning about the Viking heritage of Strangford Lough.The colourful coral reefs in the Tropical Ocean zone play host to over 100 species

Outside a family of Asian Short Clawed Otters remain a big hit with visitors, while there is a Seal Sanctuary. The Stamping trail offers a series of stamping stations, answer the trivia questions and stamp your stamp your map as you go! There is also a kids playroom, a two tier aquatic themed indoor soft play area, a new outdoor area, with the Penguins and a second Otter Family and duck pond. The Kracken Fully Licenced Restaurant is also on-site.

Hay Fever – W H at y ou S H ould Kno W

As the warm weather begins to return and the summer holidays come evercloser, it is easy to neglect the potential problems that come about at this time of the year.

Unlike the common cold, hay fever will not pass after a number of weeks and if left untreated, can remain an issue for a matter of months.

Hay fever is usually made worse between late March and September, especially when the weather is warm, humid and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest.

Symptoms of hay fever can include sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy, red or watery eyes, headaches and tiredness. It is particularly dangerous for those who suffer from asthma, as the combination can result in difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for hay fever and it cannot be prevented, however with the right approach the symptoms can be considerably eased. Simple measures such as avoiding grassy areas, showering after you have been outside, keeping windows closed and not drying clothes outside can reduce the amount of pollen

being inhaled. For more serious cases, antihistamines and cromoglycates can be taken to prevent an allergic reaction from occurring. Hay fever symptoms are much likely to be worse if the pollen count is particularly high. The pollen count refers to the number of grains of pollen in one cubic meter of air. A low pollen count would consist of less than 30 grains of

GROVE MACHINERY

Grove Machinery offer the full range of machinery from leading manufacturer Slurrykat including the following.

pollen in every cubic meter of air whereas a very high pollen count would be 150 grains.

In the majority of cases, symptoms of hay fever only begin when the pollen count is over 50. The pollen count is usually given as part of the weather forecast throughout the summer and spring months.

Most cases of hay fever can be treated with over-

the-counter medication or simply avoiding areas which contain high pollen counts. It is advised the one should only visit their GP when symptoms cannot be controlled after using over-the-counter medication or if you’re suffering from persistent implications of hay fever such as tightness of chest or a worsening of existing conditions such as asthma.

• Slurry Tankers

• Nurse Tanks

• Dribblebar & Trailing Shoe

• Front hose reelers and rear Bac Pac reelers

• DODA Pumps

• Layflat Oroflex piping

• Slurry Agitators (Proflow range)

• Sheargrabs

• Silage, grain and dump trailers

• Multi-purpose and low loader trailers

• Flow metres,

handler buckets and brushes and much much more…..

We also stock a range of parts for all slurry handling equipment and grassland equipment such as Claas and Kuhn

We offer the full range of Applied Compressors, SUMO & CARRE Tillage equipment.

At Grove Machinery we pride our reputation for selling

quality new and used machinery across Northern Ireland and Rep. Of Ireland. We have many years of experience in running an agricultural contracting business and working farm.

Whether you are looking for new or used machinery, for Grass, Slurry or soil, we will have something to suit at a competitive price.

Check out our latest machinery on

our website www. grovemachinery.com

Grove Machinery can arrange finance at competitive rates for customers

Grove Machinery are celebrating the 1 year anniversary of their new Yard and parts department at 95 Tandragee Road, Gilford, Co. Down

BT63 6HP

Tel: 028 38 830 992 / 07921

Self-care is a hot topic and the ‘spathroom’ is the place to be!

No longer a strictly functional room, demand for stylish and trend-led bathroom fittings and fixtures has firmly taken hold!

Bold colour choices and investment in stand-out features such as freestanding

baths are coming to the fore and there’s also a touch of nostalgia in chequerboard tiles

as the idea of the ‘spathroom’ makes a rapid rise. Warm metallics

A brushed metallic is a fail-safe finish in a bathroom – softening the shine from brass or gold fixtures mitigates the risk of your space appearing gaudy.

Chequerboard tiles

Chequerboard flooring is part of a wider trend towards vintage references in the home – low-slung 70s style sofas are becoming increasingly popular, rattan used in abundance in homeware, and sweet nostalgic accents like pantries and breakfast bars are returning to our kitchens.

In bathrooms, this is translating to scalloped edges on towels and accessories, sugary pastels and avocadotoned enamel, and a resurgence of chessboard tiles.

Freestanding baths

The popularity of the freestanding tub

gives a sense of how luxurious bathrooms are becoming – this is a design choice geared towards self-care, encouraging more time spent in a state of rest and relaxation.

A freestanding bath by the window can gives the illusion of more space and helps ventilation to prevent mould and mildew.

Spathrooms

Spa-inspired bathrooms, or ‘spathrooms’, is an idea, influenced by the growing popularity of spaces within the home created to support rituals of self-care.

Bathrooms are arguably the most ritualistic room in the home – introduce a chair or small sofa and use warmer textures and fabrics for a luxe feel. Make use of outdoor fabrics which work particularly well

in this arena. Colour drenching

Saturating a space with intense colour creates impact. Statement items like freestanding baths are being used to inject personality and ‘Bright and uplifting colour. Danish pastel interior design is at the forefront of this movement and is characterised by sorbet colours, curves and abstract, whimsical shapes. Homeowners can embrace this

uplifting style with square tiles, terrazzo, novel grouting and colourful finishes such as seafoam greens, warm pinks, and clay colours.

Small space solutions

Maximising our ever decreasing floorspace with clever storage solutions, floating vanity units, and narrow bathroom furniture is a priority for homeowners in 2023.

Homeowners are making the most of the

space they have, while conserving heat and water. If floor space is of a premium, make the most of your vertical space and mount larger fixtures onto your walls. Many features – from the toilet and basin to accessories like toilet roll holders and toilet brushes – now come in wallmounted styles. Lifting everything up off the ground provides extra space and extends your floor outwards, making it look bigger!

Caring for you and your smile!

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

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

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

We are a member of

the MiSmile Network, one of the largest providers for UK’s most trusted clear aligner; Invisalign! Our treatment coordinator consultation and digital scan for simulations and predicted outcome is complimentary and we have appointments available every day!

All of our dentists are Invisalign Providers and as such there are no long orthodontic waiting lists!

We would be delighted to care for you and your smile and look forward to welcoming you into our digital dentistry clinics. For more information contact our front of house teams, by phone or email!

Nigel Smith Dental

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

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

What makes a champion sheep?

A champion sheep is one that stands out from the crowd for both judge and spectators. When the sheep go into the ring one of the first tings the judge will look for is any sign of illness or injury.

The judge will want to see a well presented animal, he/she will also will look for unique features of that particular breed. This can include whether the tail is docked or not, and characteristic markings of the breed. For example the zwartble (a breed native to the Netherlands) should have two to four white socks, blazes should be uninterrupted and reasonably straight. These may be any width and may continue under the chin, but not into the wool. The white blaze should run from the crown of the head and may include the muzzle.

Childcare costs are the topic of many of the queries we receive through our helpline and can be a source of stress on the finances of many families. We also know that childcare providers have been under significant pressure for some time trying to keep their businesses afloat in the face of rising costs, including for heat and electricity, business rates and staff wages.

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

These figures represent 85% of the maximum registered childcare costs that a household could claim help with through Universal Credit. The result of inflation and rising costs has meant that over the years these figures have fallen behind the amount that the average parent pays towards their childcare bill.

The Chancellor announced in the Spring Budget that from July 2023 these maximum figures will increase by almost 50% to £951 per month for one child and £1,630 for two or more children. This means that through Universal Credit parents who have one child in registered childcare will receive 85% of childcare costs up to £1,118 per month, and £1,917 per month for two or more children.

These higher levels of support are much more in line with the reality of the

childcare bills that parents are paying.

In addition, the Chancellor has also committed to increasing these figures in line with the Consumer Price Index each year until 2027/28, meaning that as registered childcare costs rise over time the support parents receive will remain more aligned with any increases in their childcare bills.

In certain circumstances parents in Northern Ireland may also be able to receive additional support through the Adviser Discretion Fund towards childcare costs if they are required to pay a childcare bill up front – such as when moving into work or increasing hours. Through this fund the Department for Communities can pay the initial childcare bill instead of the parent having to pay their costs upfront and then claim support back.

Extension of 30 hours free childcare scheme in England

The Budget also saw

the announcement of the extension of the 30 hours free childcare scheme in England. As this scheme is not in place in Northern Ireland, families here will not benefit. Equivalent funding will be provided to Northern Ireland, but there is no guarantee this will be invested in childcare.

Further information

To discuss how these changes to Universal

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

The judge will look at the body shape and conformation of the animal. The shape of the head, muscule development and size and how the sheep stands in front of the judge are all of importance.

The role of the handler can also come into play. They can make their sheep stand out in preparation for

the show ring by making sure the sheep have a clean fleece and in trimming the sheep should look wide and balanced. Good feeding and nurture will show through in a well prepared and developed sheep. In the ring the exhibitor will show the animal to best effect, making the animal show its full body length.

The sheep should also stand square and straight. The judge will look for a good mouth with an even bite, (rather than an undershot jaw where the upper jaw is too long and overshot jaw where the lower jaw is too long).

Ultimately the judge will be rating the sheep by which one they would choose to buy.

The animal should have good straight legs and have a good frame and the exhibiter should show good width by widening the back legs. This shows the judge a good standing sheep with good muscle in the backend.

The animal should not have hocks too close together (cow hocks) or a weak pastern. The animal should have a good firm fleece which will be evaluated by the fitness, colour, covering and purity.

Judges normally start looking from the rump of the animal forwards noticing the breed features , quality of the fleece, depth and width at the back of the animal and that the rear legs that have a good angle at the hocks. For rams the judge looks for deep, wide and thick legs, then good muscle expression in the

rear quarter. At the front of the animal there should be evidence of the breed character such as straight forelegs and deep and wide through the chest. If it’s a ram the judge will also look for good muscular forearm and width over the shoulder. Then from the side the judge will would look for balance, size and scale, long body, and characteristic features of the breed.

The exhibitor should also be well presented on show day! He or she should dress up smart for the class and is required to wear a white coat when showing the animal.

CHARITY CALLS ON PEOPLE TO HELP SAVE NATIVE FLORA

Plant conservation charity, True Harvest Seeds, is calling on people to donate to help raise the £200k needed by August 31st 2023 to save its seed bank.

Situated in Kilclief, the new structure will be purpose built to preserve the seed of the island of Ireland’s native flora in the event of de-habitation or climate change. There are hundreds of native flowers and plants

in NI and ROI and the seed bank exists both to preserve them and to research their DNA. It is currently situated within a set of temporary structures that are reaching the end of their lifespan.

True Harvest Seeds

wishes to secure the future of the seed bank. To do so, the charity must raise funds by August 31st for a permanent structure to house its growing indigenous seed collection. The organisation also wishes to further develop its native botanical gardens, to protect and showcase endangered and beautiful flora.

Debbie Gillies, CEO at True Harvest Seeds, says, “True Harvest Seeds is essentially a gene bank for our indigenous wild plants. We harness the science of seed conservation to safeguard our native species for future generations.

“We preserve seeds collected from populations of wild plants of native origin in our seed bank and it is of the utmost

importance that we are able to secure a permanent, purpose-built structure, to allow us to continue our work safely and effectively for the long term.

“The Seed Centre will be open to the public and the seeds in the seed bank can be withdrawn for restoration or research upon application. As a charity, True Harvest Seeds and its seed bank are owned by the people of NI and ROI for use now and long into the future, as seed collections can last for thousands of years in deep storage.

“I would encourage donations from people across County Antrim to help us raise the £200k that is urgently needed in order to secure the site by

August 31st.”

Debbie is accompanied by one other member of staff at True Harvest Seeds, along with seventeen dedicated volunteers who help with all aspects, from governance, to collecting, to growing and storing the seed.

Michael Thompson, Trustee and Marketing Director at True Harvest Seeds, adds, “Conserving endangered plant species is vital to the preservation of our ecosystems. Many plant species are currently facing extinction, both locally and globally, and it is vital for us to help protect them before it is too late.

“One of the ways that we aim to achieve this at True Harvest Seeds is by seed banking and our members

are working tirelessly to raise money to build the necessary infrastructure to continue our efforts.

“We need to raise £200k by August 31st to secure a

permanent building for our seed bank and I would call on people across County Antrim to help us protect our indigenous plants from genetic degradation,

hybridisation or extinction by donating.”

To donate to True Harvest Seeds, visit: https://trueharvestseeds. org/donate/

Come and soak up the beauty of Bangor this Summer!

With its stunning marina and waterfront, coastal walks, and funfair, you’ll have endless options for fun and adventure.

One of Northern Ireland’s most popular attractions, the Pickie Fun Park, is the ultimate destination for family fun in Bangor! Whether you’re young or young at heart, they’ve got something for everyone.

Take a leisurely ride on the swan boats or challenge your friends to a round of mini-golf!

With a variety of rides, games, and attractions, Pickie Fun Park is the perfect place for a day out with

the family. And don’t forget to refuel at the on-site café, serving up delicious snacks and meals.

Market Fresh on Easter Saturday and Sunday is the perfect opportunity to explore the delicious local produce and artisanal crafts, while the Easter Trail at North

Down Museum will engage and delight visitors of all ages. History buffs won’t want to pass by the Bangor Castle local history museum, while nature enthusiasts will love exploring the city’s beautiful parks, including Ward park with its aviaries and duck ponds. And for some aquatic

fun, why not head to the Aurora Leisure and Aquatic Centre!

For those looking for a more tranquil experience, the Bangor Walled Garden is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to admire the award-winning gardens.

And don’t forget the din-

ing options in Bangor city centre! From award-winning restaurants to cosy cafes and lively bars, there’s something for everyone. So why not make Bangor your destination this Easter? Come and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. We can’t wait to see you!

PARKING? …it’s cheap and easy at the city-centre Multi-Story carpark (£2 per day):https://www.facebook. com/FlagshipBangor/ www.pickiefunpark.com https://andculture.org.uk https://www.marketfresh. org/ https://www.bangoraurora. com/ https://andculture.org. uk/visit-us/north-downmuseum/our-history/ walled-garden https://andculture.org. uk/visit-us/north-downmuseum/our-history/ museum https://www.facebook.com/Swingtime Amusements/ For more info find Bangor by the sea on fb

Get Hands-On Wit H Y O ur s elf Build

safety requirements regarding the installation of certain devices such as boilers or ovens.

ignore these can be both unsafe and costly.

you money in your self-build.

Designing your own home presents a unique opportunity to create a bespoke living environment that has been tailor-made for your specific needs. For many the chance design your ideal home is the dream come true – a forever home designed with the future development of your family in mind.

Self-builds also present the opportunity of creating elements of your home yourself, truly taking the project into your own hands and making it precisely as you have envisaged. Of course, the extent to which you can do this depends on many variables, such as your skill as a builder, the scale of the project and the health and

All you need to have to be a self-builder is a passion to create your dream home and the willingness to learn that which is required to achieve this goal. You don’t have to be a construction engineer to get your hands dirty and do your bit in the building of your home. However you should leave the core structural elements to professionals as you must adhere to strict building control protocols and to

Once the core structural elements are in place, the floor is all yours –literally. Tiling can be a practical and cost effective way of creating a high spec, low maintenance finish that you can complete yourself.

Simple instructions for completing tiled floors can be found online, the success of which lies in careful planning and preparation.

From preparing the floor beneath, spacing the tiles and grouting, this process is simple and can save

Having completed the tiled floors, your talents may turn to fitting a new kitchen. The cost of hiring a professional to fit a kitchen can run into the thousands, so doing this yourself can save you a lot of money. Once again, instructions for installing a kitchen can be easily found online and the key to ensuring that this goes successfully lies in the planning. Carefully measuring the dimensions of your kitchen, units and utility devices

Turn Your Garden Into A Summer Paradise

Breathing some new life into your garden or outdoor space can be exactly what you need to convert your home into a summer paradise.

From colourful and exotic plants to new garden furniture; there are many things that you can do to renovate your garden into a living space to be proud of.

Re-designing your garden is an exciting prospect that offers a wide range of possibilities to homeowners. Modern landscape gardeners are capable of transforming even the most neglected of spaces into an easily maintained Mediterranean heaven.

Firstly, you must consider the plot that you are working with. Does your property frame the space? Where does the garden catch the sun?

What level of maintenance do you wish to work with?

All of these factors are amongst those that must be taken into consideration in order to optimise your outdoor area.

When it comes to landscape gardening, research is of paramount importance. If working with a small space, the subtle use of mirrors, metals and light coloured paints can create an expansive feeling

throughout the garden. The addition of new garden furniture can also be exactly what is required to modernise the space.

Bright coloured sheds; tables and chairs can reflect the natural light and create an atmosphere Whilst your budget is often the ultimate limitation on what you can achieve through this renovation project,

it is well worth hiring professionals to ensure that it is done to the highest possible quality.

Qualified gardeners will have the experience and skill to foresee and avoid possible problems in the planning and construction process.

One of the simplest and most effective ways of transforming your outside space is through

the addition of plants. A varied selection of flowers, trees and shrubs can create year-round interest that you will never bore of. The inclusion of Petunia’s, Marigold’s, Daylilies and Dahlia’s will bring a great deal of vibrancy throughout the summer months whilst Aster’s and Carnations will provide colour year-round.

will allow you to plan where is best for everything to be

positioned. Of course, when it comes to the specialist parts such

as gas installation and plumbing, it might be best to call

in a professional for these elements of the project.

Polestar 2 a rising star of 2023

Polestar has created a second limited-edition version of Polestar 2 within its Polestar Engineered portfolio – the BST edition 230.

Starting with the exceptional chassis modifications developed for ultimate thrills in the

original BST edition, the new version puts more focus on performance design details.

“Limited drops like the BST edition 230 allow us to explore colours, graphics and materials in faster and

more creative ways,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. Unique design upgrades

for the 350 kW and 680 Nm Polestar 2 BST edition 230 include exclusive green Nebula paintwork and MicroSuede textile for the seats and steering wheel inserts – made from partly recycled Nubuck textile. The exterior can also be ordered in Space (black), with an

optional full-length body stripe available for either body colour.

All the chassis upgrades that were first implemented on the original Polestar 2 BST edition 270 remain available, including the lowered ride height (-25 mm), specially

developed and unique Öhlins 2-way adjustable dampers, front strut bar, 20% stiffer springs and unique black 21-inch alloy wheels that are inspired by those of Polestar 1, fitted with 245/35R21 Pirelli

P Zero tyres developed specifically for BST edition

cars. A total of 230 units will be produced for European and North American Polestar markets, with cars available to order immediately online from 21 March 2023 at Polestar.com. Deliveries are expected from the third quarter of 2023.

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

skilled craftsmen, every

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 1278

New look 2023 Mazda2 makes Spring debut

the Mazda2 a sportier look and character.

Across all models the 2023 Mazda2’s new grille sees the signature Mazda wing surround pass beneath rather than below the number plate, leaving space to accentuate the new sportier lower bumper trim and shape. Additionally, to give a sharper look, the signature wing grille surround cuts into the leading edge of the headlight rather than passing underneath, while asymmetrically placed colour accent tabs feature on the front grille and rear bumper across all models.

The Centre-Line and Exclusive-Line have a front-end design that features a large coloured panel across the lower section of the grille, which combined with the new front bumper design and more prominent lower grille section with

a gloss black signature wing surround, gives the 2023 Mazda2 an unmistakable new look. With the aim of giving customers more colour combination choices, on Soul Red Crystal, Snowflake White, Platinum Quartz, Polymetal Grey and the new Air Stream Blue the grille panel is body coloured, while on Machine Grey, Deep Crystal Blue, Ceramic Metallic and the new Aero Grey colour, the grille panel is in Jet Black to give a smart contrasting look. Jet Black cars also have a Jet Black grille panel.

All Centre-Line and Exclusive-Line cars feature a small yellow accent tab in the grille, something that’s repeated at the back where the revised rear bumper features a now full width black lower moulding with the yellow

accent tab. Centre-Line cars feature 15-inch silver alloy wheels as standard, while Exclusive-Line steps up to 16-inch bright alloy wheels.

Inside, the Centre-Line and Exclusive-Line cars there’s a similar colour

combination style with a new decorative dash panel that is mint coloured on Air Stream Blue and Ceramic Metallic cars for example.

On Soul Red Crystal, Snowflake White, Platinum Quartz and Polymetal Grey cars the dash panel is pure

Ballyrobert has a new Motability specialist!

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

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

Offering worry-free motoring, the Motability Scheme is available to anyone who receives the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independent Payment. The Motability Scheme offers customers a brand-new car as part of a worry-free lease package that includes insurance for up to three named drivers, servicing and maintenance, full RAC breakdown assistance, tyre and windscreen replacement and 60,000 mileage allowance over three years.

Michelle Adams has worked in the

automotive industry for 12 years and has been an esteemed Motability accredited specialist for 9 years. Michelle has joined the team to assist people looking to lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme. With their expert knowledge they will be on hand to welcome visitors to Ballyrobert, answering questions and helping people to select the right vehicle for their needs.

This includes test drives, ordering the car and providing support throughout the lease.

Michelle Adams commented:

“I am looking forward to welcoming both new and existing customers to Ballyrobert Bangor and assisting them in choosing their next vehicle on the scheme. We have an amazing line up of spectacular vehicles currently on the Motability scheme from NIL deposit. Please feel free to

advantage of the Mazda2’s well-proportioned Kodo design and the new sleeker bumper design, the Homura has a black honeycomb grille with a red accent tab, matched to gloss black door mirrors, 16-inch black alloy wheels and a black shark fin roof antenna. At the back, the red accent sits on the lower right hand side of the black

bumper trim strip. Priced from £17,750 the 2023 Mazda2 range goes on sale from late spring. Thanks to being sold alongside the Mazda2 Hybrid, Mazda has a pair of distinctive and premium contenders in the supermini segment, meaning Mazda offers the biggest choice in this sector of the small hatchback market.

white, while the remaining exterior colours get a mirror black finish.

The ever-popular Mazda2 has received a substantially revised new look with fresh exterior styling and new cabin trim treatment. Across the four newly named trim grades: CentreLine, Homura, ExclusiveLine and Homura Aka - the 2023 Mazda2 features a new grille, a sleeker bumper design, decorative dash panels and two exterior colours that make their Mazda debut on the supermini: Aero Grey and Air Stream Blue. For the 2023 Mazda2, Mazda’s designers have focused on new design features that give the different models a more distinctive appearance to allow customers the opportunity to reflect their individuality with a wider choice of colour combinations across the four model grades. The Mazda2’s personality has been redefined with Centre-Line and ExclusiveLine focusing on a fun and casual nature, while the Homura and Homura Aka have been designed to give

The Homura and Homura Aka 2023 Mazda2 take a different approach and have been designed to be a more sporty interpretation of the Mazda2. Taking

call into the Vauxhall showroom at 402 Belfast Road or give me a call on 02891 852262 to arrange a convenient appointment”

How to Create an Outdoor Meditation Room

Meditation is a way to quiet your thoughts to tap into the creative force in your life. It can refresh the mind, lift the spirits and help you feel more connected.

Meditation can be as simple as sitting in a chair and quietly praying, or it can be as disciplined as Zen practices. However

you meditate, having a space that’s set aside for that purpose is helpful. Given good weather, a place outside can be ideal. Find a quiet area that will allow you to feel peaceful and calm. A

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

lanterns if you like to meditate in the evening and a small storage chest where you can keep pillows to support your back, a blanket and your books. Arrange these items in a harmonious way with your plants and water feature.

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

Home Inter I or Summer colour trend S for 2023

The colour palette got even larger lately with leading paint Manfacturer Farrow & Ball alone introducing 11 new colours recently ( the first alteration to their collection since 2018.) There is a move towards bold and brash colours that lend themselves to exaggerated statements and also an array of neutral and natural tones that embody a sense of calm and containment.

Here are just a few ideas to get you in the summer mood!

Deep reds

In 2023, reds are rich and pigmented, Graham and Brown also chose a moody and romantic red as their colour of the year. When decorating with red, consider how susceptible the colour can be to natural light. The colour takes on slightly different tones throughout the day and the seasons.

It can be vibrant and fresh in the morning, cosy and rich in the evening

The new plaster pink

We’re seeing a resurgence in the popularity of raw plaster, and with that has come a demand for a finish that mimics the appearance of fresh plaster. Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster launched a thousand Instagram posts in 2022 their newer Templeton Pink is a deeper and richer take.

Pink may divide opinion; however, over the past few years, this versatile shade has boomed in popularity. Pink provides a more elegant, more playful alternative to grey, it creates incredible warmth and an alluring appeal and looks fab in kitchens!

Wheat field neutrals

Whilst there is still more than a hint of a Scandinavian colour palette here,

wheat field neutrals introduce undertones of yellow and gold that add considerable warmth. Dulux’s Wild Wonder is a natureinspired update on the theme.

Don’t be afraid to go big and bold

Make your Summer Home Shine!

Bring the Outdoors Inside

with rich warm coloured furniture to complement Wild Wonder walls. Pair it with Yellow and golds to warm up this new neutral backdrop – and sofas and footstools can really make a statement in

Create an Outdoor Meditation Room

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

It can refresh the mind, lift the spirits and help you feel more connected.

Meditation can be as simple as sitting in a chair and quietly praying, or it can be as disciplined as Zen practices. However you meditate, having a space that’s set aside for that purpose is helpful. Given good weather, a place outside can be ideal.

Find a quiet area that will allow you to feel peaceful and calm. A shady space is advisable. Before you do anything with the space, sit in it and check out how it looks, sounds and feels.

You want it to be out of

the wind and quiet. If you like the space but find it a bit noisy, consider placing plants around it to help block out the sounds or playing soft music. A water feature can create soothing white noise.

Define the area with a comfortable outdoor chair where you can read before praying, a woven mat where you can sit while you meditate or stretch when you’re finished, inspirational statuary, lanterns if you like to meditate in the evening and a small storage chest where you can keep pillows to support your back, a

blanket and your books. Arrange these items in a harmonious way with your plants and water feature. Choose colours that will enhance your meditation. Soothing, cool colours such as light blues, greens

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

your living space in brighter accent shades. Alternatively, you can easily start to layer in this colour with smaller accessories, such as cushions and throws, adding hints of yellow to your existing interiors.

Nothing says summer like lush green trees and blooming flowers. To bring your home into harmony with the summer interior design trends in 2023, try decorating with tall, standing house plants, like a monstera or a snake plant. These sturdy house plants are like living art, adding a vibrant pop of color to any room. If you don’t have a green thumb, try to use realistic-looking fake plants. That way, you can feel like you have a little piece of a garden in your home, yet never worry about forgetting to water the plants. Now that the trees outside have fully bloomed again, why obstruct your view of nature’s beauty? If you’re lucky enough to get sunlight shining through a window in your kitchen, consider the summer a perfect opportunity to grow a window sill herb garden! Nothing represents the ideal intersection of function and style better than a decoration that you can

also add to your lunch. No matter what the season, one thing is for sure: plants will never go out of style.

Metallics Shine

Who doesn’t love a bit of glitz and glam?

This season’s summer interior design trends embrace warm metallics, like bronze, copper, brass, gold, and rose gold. When it comes to metallic accents, get creative.

Think candleholders, picture frames, lampshades, decorative bowls, plant pots – let it all shine! As you apply these metallic summer interior design trends, feel free to mix and match different tones. For example, if your kitchen is already loaded with your favourite stainless steel appliances, try matching that cool-toned silver with a warmer bronze colour for your dishes, silverware, sink hardware, wine rack, or cabinet door handles.

If your home is sporting that classic all-white look, make it modern with the summer interior design trends of 2023 – add bright bronze or rose

gold accents, breathing new life into a tired, monochromatic room.

If you’re on a budget or seeking a craft project to keep you busy, consider adding these metallic accents yourself – buy some metallic paint and get busy painting your existing candle holders, plant pots, picture frames, and other decors.

Bold Patterns

Whether it’s florals or animal prints, the right pattern can change the ambiance of a roomThink boldly, and consider options like a two-tone geometric rug, or an up-close print of a flower. When in doubt, larger scale prints beat smaller ones.

In minimalist interiors, the right choice of bold patterns can elevate your style while reserving an elegant simplicity.

If you’re up for the challenge, you might even consider using mixed patterns in similar colour palettes –perhaps a tropical print could match a thin, subtle striped print. You’ll never know until you try it out!