The Ards Advertiser 208

Road improvement scheme for A20 Rowreagh Road.

A carriageway resurfacing scheme on A20 Rowreagh Road, Portaferry is underway.

The resurfacing scheme will involve the asphalt resurfacing of a 1.5-kilometre stretch of the Rowreagh Road between the Lisbane Road junction and the Loughdoo Road junction.

This work will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of the road network to the benefit of local residents, businesses and those travelling between Kircubbin and Portaferry and is expected to be completed by Friday 29 September 2023.

To facilitate the safe delivery of the scheme it will be necessary to implement a daily road closure between the hours of 9.30 am and 4.30 pm, from Monday 4 September 2023 through to Friday 29 September 2023.

The road will be open to traffic overnight and at the weekends.

During these times there

Ballywalter

w astewater t reatment w orks t our

NI Water was delighted to recently welcome Kellie Armstrong MLA and Councillor Patricia Morgan to the recently completed Ards North Wastewater Treatment Works off the Ganaway Road in Ballywalter

Mark Consiglia, Wastewater Assets Area Manager – East, led the tour of the plant and gave an overview of the wider £18 million wastewater project, which will help improve the quality of bathing waters along part of the Ards Peninsula.

The project, which got underway in May 2021, included the

construction of new wastewater pumping stations and pipelines to rationalise and upgrade the wastewater infrastructure in the Carrowdore, Ballywhiskin and Ballywalter catchments.

The new treatment facility has been designed to treat all wastewater flows from the villages

of Carrowdore, Ballywhiskin and Ballywalter - as well as local caravan parks - to strict environmental standards before discharging the treated effluent out to sea via a new long sea outfall pipe, constructed off the coast at Ballyferris. This major multimillion-pound project demonstrates NI Water’s

commitment to ensuring that our wastewater network and treatment facilities are of worldclass ability.

The investment will help deliver significant environmental improvements, including cleaner beaches and bathing waters and will support long-term economic growth in local development.

will be a signed diversionary route via Rubane, Cloughey, Portaferry and vice versa. Local access for residents and emergency services will be maintained, however some minor delays may be experienced.

The Department has programmed the work operations and traffic management arrangements to minimise inconvenience, however, road users should expect some delays and are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the vicinity of the works and are asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions. Subject to favourable weather conditions all work will be completed by 29 September 2023, however, the Department will keep the public informed of any change. For more information about this and other improvement schemes visit: www.TrafficwatchNI.com

(L-R) Mark Consiglia NI Water, Kellie Armstrong MLA and Councillor Patricia Morgan.

County Down animal sanctuary awarded Power NI funding

BARN Animal Rescue is to invest the funding in the welfare of animals in its care Power NI’s Brighter Communities initiative has awarded BARN Animal Rescue £1,000 funding which the charity will put towards the advancement of animal welfare.

Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife Glenn and Joanne, BARN Animal Rescue was established to rescue, rehabilitate, and shelter companion animals who have become abandoned or unwanted.

At the rescue centre based in Carrowdore, County Down, the charity cares for rescued cats and dogs, with the aim of ultimately finding the animals their forever home where possible. Working with a base of approximately 20 volunteers, the organisation also runs two charity shops, one in Newtownards and one in Ballywalter, with all funds and donations going directly to improving its services and helping the animals.

Manager of the rescue Glenn Ford is extremely grateful for the funding: “We’re delighted to be recipients of the Brighter Communities

award. Funding like this is vital to ensuring we can deliver the care and protection necessary for the animals we have in the rescue centre.

“We tend and care for hundreds of dogs and cats year on year, and we not only want to continue this, but we want to take in as many animals as we can to ensure they’re getting the treatment and love that they deserve.

“We’re always looking to improve the welfare of animals, and the services that we can provide and Power NI’s funding is

enabling us to do just that. A huge thanks to the team at Power NI!” Power NI’s Brighter Communities programme energises innovative and emerging community groups, teams and projects with £1000 of funding awarded each month.

The funding award has helped numerous charities and groups including Special Olympics athletes, stroke recovery groups and wheelchair basketball players.

Ashleigh O’Neill

from Power NI added: “We’re proud to play a part in ensuring that the team at BARN Animal Rescue can provide such necessary care and shelter for cats and dogs. The sanctuary provides an essential service in rehoming and rehabilitating animals across the country, and Power NI is delighted to provide this award which will go directly to improving the welfare of animals in BARN Animal Rescue’s care. A massive congratulations from Power NI!”

Ards Arts Centre Wel C omes n e W e xhibitions

Two new exhibitions recently opened at Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards: Through Others Eyes by Lauren Ciara McCullough and slow still life by Savannah Dodd.

Lauren Ciara McCullough, a recent graduate of MFA Fine Art at Ulster University, is inspired by her surroundings. Her work aims to convey the very

being of nature through the presentation of landscape as abstraction.

Through Others Eyes is inspired by her current practice and her recent residency at Ballinglen

Arts Foundation in March 2023, supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council.

Speaking about her exhibition, Lauren says; “I have an eagerness to capture the ethereal nature of the Irish landscape which was ignited when I relocated to the countryside in Newtownards. My new surroundings drastically impacted my practice, from working pleinair, to just living and walking in the scenic beauty.

My intention would be to connect with the local people through the exhibition, by the feeling that they are immersed by the sense of

familiarity and view the perception of this land through my eyes and others. I will respond to a body of resource material which will be displayed alongside my work. This material will describe a space where the other felt a spiritual connection to this land.”

This exhibition can be be seen at The Georgian Gallery . slow still life is an exhibition of photographs and anthotype photograms by Savannah Dodd. Since 2020, Savannah Dodd’s photographic practice has transitioned away from the digital toward ecological analogue methods.

Influenced by the process of naturalising as an Irish citizen, her recent work explores ideas of place, belonging, and connection to the land. Slow still life is about reconnecting with nature and slowing down to pay closer attention to the ordinary. It is also about unlearning perfectionism and the urge to be productive. Although this project speaks to universal themes, there is specificity to this work: the photographs were taken around the artist’s home and printed using materials found in the local environment. Avoiding traditional darkroom

chemicals, which are toxic for people and the planet, the artist made developers, fixers, and emulsions from foraged native plants, from rainwater, and from seawater collected from Strangford Lough, reinforcing the relationship with the natural world. Slow still life can be seen in The Sunburst Gallery. Both exhibitions will run until Saturday 23 September. Admission is free during gallery opening hours. For more information telephone 028 9181 0803 or email arts@ ardsandnorthdown.gov. uk.

FOOD DONATION SCHEME IN OPERATION IN COMBER

Over 5,000 meals provided to local charities so far this year.

Musgrave NI has launched a partnership with FareShare Northern Ireland, the region’s biggest charity fighting hunger and tackling food waste, by introducing food donation points into

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selected SuperValu and Centra stores.

SuperValu and Centra customers have already been supporting a trial in selected stores, including SuperValu Comber, SuperValu Downpatrick,

KIRCUBBIN Costcutters

SuperValu Newcastle and SuperValu Kings Road, and have so far donated over 800kg of food, helping 40 charities provide the equivalent of 1,623 meals, while Musgrave donated a further 1,495 kg of food equating to an additional 3,475 meals.

The partnership is now being extended to more stores across Northern Ireland.

Desi Derby, Director of Marketing for SuperValu and Centra at Musgrave NI said:

“We are acutely aware of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on people and families across Northern Ireland so to be able to work with FareShare and provide these collection points for food donation is something which we’re very proud of. We would like to thank our shoppers for their support and encourage customers to pick up an extra item when they’re shopping

and donate it to this very worthwhile cause.”

FareShare is the UK’s biggest charity fighting hunger and tackling food waste. FareShare works with the food industry to get good-to-eat food surplus food, which might otherwise go to waste, and redistribute it to a nationwide network of frontline charities and community groups. These charities help tackle the root causes of poverty, and provide wraparound services including shelters for the homeless, lunch clubs for elderly people suffering with isolation, and support with issues including debt, employment and mental health.

In Northern Ireland, FareShare is operated by Homeless Connect (the working name of Council for the Homeless (Northern Ireland). It is the largest charitable food redistribution project in NI fighting hunger and tackling food waste. In

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2022, FareShare Northern Ireland distributed the equivalent of 1,616,295 meals.

Polly Hofmann, Head of Retail at FareShare added:

“We are enormously grateful to Musgrave Northern Ireland for their support with this partnership. After a successful trial in selected stores, we look forward to extending the project to many more locations in the coming months. Demand for food from FareShare has skyrocketed due to the cost-of-living crisis and generous donations by customers of SuperValu and Centra will ensure the charities we support in Northern Ireland can continue to provide essential services, using food to strengthen communities.”

Emily Crawford and Lauren Ciara McCullough

Connor Martin from Fareshare collects food product donations from Musgrave NI’s Director of Marketing, Desi Derby

Contractor appointed for Portaferry Public Realm Project

The Department for Communities welcomed the appointment of Northstone as the contractor to complete the construction phase of the Portaferry Public Realm Project.

The project sees a £2m investment in Portaferry funded through the COVID Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, a collaborative approach between the Department for Communities, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure who jointly contributed £26.5m to deliver a programme of projects that have been developed in partnership with local stakeholders and which will deliver measurable benefits for citizens across the country.

The Portaferry Public Realm project will deliver environmental improvements to the core of Portaferry, and will support the regeneration of the local area including:

• A revitalised Market Square for community use and events;

• Upgraded surfaces and streetscape improvements; and

• Amenity lighting, street furniture and planting/landscape design. Construction will commence in October

2023 with completion expected in the Summer of 2024.

Welcoming the news, Director of Regional Development Office (DfC) Gerard Murray said: “This significant investment in Portaferry reflects the Department for Communities’ commitment to working in partnership with stakeholders to regenerate our city, town and village centres.

“It is a great example of collaborative working between central government departments,

Ards and North Down Borough Council and local community stakeholders. The improvements to the streetscape, enhanced linkages to the ferry and Market Square, and the creation of a bespoke events space will transform the look and feel of the heart of Portaferry. This will facilitate a wide range of events all year round and support this much-loved village to become an even more attractive place to live, work, visit and invest.”

Welcoming the news, Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour said:

“I’m delighted The public realm scheme will be managed by the Ards & North Down Borough Council. A scheme information flyer will be delivered to all business and residential addresses within the scheme area over the coming weeks. Contractor Introduction and Scheme Information Sessions will take place 4 September 2023, Market House, Portaferry.

Tiny To T z seeks new signings in s ep T ember

Football coaches Ben McMorris and Jack Trotter started local community football group Tiny Totz football a year ago and in that time it has grown each week in numbers.

Tiny Totz is football aimed at children 3 to 5 Years old and is based in Ballygowan Community Centre each Saturday morning!

The kids come and most of all

have fun but at the same time learning skills to prepare them to make the move into a football team!

Coaches Jack and Ben started Tiny Totz when they were both

only 20 years old and after a morning with the kids go off to play for their own teams Ben with East Belfast and Jack with Ards Rangers

The rapport they have with kids and

parents is great and they are looking forward to some new faces starting in September. Find TINYTOT ZFOOTBALL on facebook for more info.

Positive Ageing Ro A dshows s cheduled fo R o ctobe R

Following the success of last year’s Positive Ageing Roadshows, Age Friendly Ards and North Down, supported by the Public Health Agency and in partnership with Ards and North Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), will deliver another two roadshow events during Positive Ageing Month this October.

The roadshows will offer advice and information from local agencies in relation to community safety and home safety; and will offer guidance around issues such as fall prevention while also

promoting opportunities to increase social participation, connect with others and stay active.

Kircubbin Community Centre will host the first roadshow on Wednesday 4

October while the second will be held at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex on Friday 20 October. Attendees must register at least one week before each event and are encouraged to attend by themselves or with friends.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“Positive Ageing Month is a celebration of our older people and the value they bring to our community. Our Roadshows are designed to provide advice on issues that are most relevant to our older population such as staying safe and keeping active. We also want to showcase some of the many opportunities to stay connected through hob-

bies and groups – demonstrating that Ards and North Down is a great place to live and grow older.

I am positive that everyone who attends the roadshows will find them very informative and I look forward to seeing everyone there.” PCSP Chair, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said: “Ards and North Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is delighted to support and be involved in these roadshow events. They educate and inform people about a range of crime prevention and safety issues such as scams, antisocial behaviour and how people can keep safe within their own homes. For many

older people, crime and the fear of crime can be a major concern, so it is important that steps are taken to support and protect potentially vulnerable people within our local community.”

To register for either of the events, email your contact details (and, if applicable, those of your friend) to agefriendly@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk. Please advise if any special assistance is required or if you have any dietary requirements. Alternatively, call 0300 013 3333 (ext. 40336) or 07741 103277 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am-10.30am only).

The Positive Ageing Roadshows are being run as part of ‘Positive Ageing Month’, which is celebrated

every year in October. It is a month-long campaign of events and activities that promote positive ageing and

celebrate the contribution older people make to their communities.

For more information,

visit https://www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/resident/ community-planning/ positive-ageing-month

Elegance and Style on the Wild Atlantic Way at Radisson Blu Hotel, Letterkenny

Experience contemporary elegance and style at the Radisson Blu Hotel Letterkenny, County Donegal.

All 114 Guest Rooms and Suites have been styled with modern sophistication, rich and luxurious materials were carefully selected to enhance the wel-

coming ambiance and provide an intimate & functional environment for guests.

Just a 5-minute walk from the main street, hotel guests have easy access to the town’s best shopping and events without all the noise. Letterkenny is the heart of North West Ireland, and offers an exceptional experience for every type of visitor. With breath-taking scenery, this northern – almost untouched –stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way is an absolute essential, any time of year.

Each stylish room is fitted with welcoming amenities, and decorated with a soothing colour palette, setting the tone for a restful night’s sleep. In the morning

enjoy a fresh coffee from the room provisions before making your way downstairs to enjoy the extensive breakfast selection. Guests can enjoy award winning cuisine on-site in the AA Rosette-awarded

Restaurant. Indulge in steak, seafood, and juicy burgers as well as signature dishes. Enjoy a refreshing wine, or beer from the extensive offering, all while you relax in the welcoming ambiance of The Mulberry Restaurant & Bar.

Wind down after a full day in the Health Club, before sinking back into the sumptuous setting of the newly refurbished hotel foyer for a cocktail and a catch up.

To book call the team today on 00353 74919 4444.

Benefits for children with disabilities or additional needs

Many parents of children with additional needs are unaware that they may be entitled to financial support.

East Belfast Dental puts the spotlight on Associate Dentist Lia!

Do you have a gap in your teeth? An ill-fitting denture? Difficulty enjoying your food as you can only bite using one side of your mouth?

Disability Living

Allowance and Personal Independence Payment

Children under 16 with a disability or additional needs may be entitled to Disability Living Allowance (DLA), while those over 16 can receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The amount received will depend on the condition and how it affects the child.

Depending on household circumstances, entitlement to DLA or PIP can also have a positive effect on entitlement to other benefits such as Universal Credit, Tax Credits and Carers Allowance.

Higher payments of other benefits

As soon as possible after receiving a positive DLA or PIP decision you should contact whoever pays your current benefits to tell them you’re now getting DLA or PIP, as this could result in you getting higher payments of the following:

• Universal Credit

• Child Tax Credit

• Housing Benefit.

Inform Universal Credit of the change of circumstances through your Universal Credit account. If you are receiving Tax Credits, inform HMRC via their

online portal or the Tax Credit helpline 0345 300 3900. When you contact them ask if there is any additional support DLA or PIP entitles you to. They may need details from the decision letter so you should have it available when you call.

You’ll be exempt from the ‘benefit cap’ which limits the amount of benefit payments a household can receive, and also may be eligible for help towards your household rates if you have made any adaptations to your home to meet the needs of the person with the disability.

If you do not currently receive any benefits

The awarding of a disability benefit is a significant change in circumstances. The entitlement to DLA or PIP has the effect of increasing the income threshold for means-tested benefits. This means that households with a higher income, and who would not otherwise be eligible, can qualify for support.

You should contact an independent benefits advisor who can check if this change means that your household has now become entitled to any other benefits, such as Universal Credit.

Carer’s Allowance and Carer Element

Parents and others who care for someone in receipt of DLA or PIP could be eligible to receive Carer’s Allowance, which is paid weekly at a rate of £76.75. Eligibility depends on both the circumstances of the carer and those of the person being cared for.

If the carer is in receipt of Universal Credit and is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, or would be in receipt of Carers Allowance if it weren’t for their income being too high, they may be eligible for an additional Carer

Element of Universal

Credit of £185.86 per month.

For a couple with one partner working and the other not working but in receipt of Carers Allowance they can meet the criteria for financial support with their registered childcare costs which otherwise require both members in a couple to be working.

Further information

For personalised advice on what support your family may be entitled to, contact the Family Benefits Advice Service on Freephone 0800 028 3008 or email hello@ employersforchildcare. org.

Come and meet Lia, one of our lovely dentists. Lia joined our team in July 2019. She qualified in 2013 in Thessaloniki. Since graduating, Lia’s passion for furthering her knowledge has led her to complete a Masters in Prosthodontics in King’s College London, for which she attained a Distinction. She prides herself on building her reputation here at East Belfast Dental, where she can provide pain free general, family dentistry and more specialised, complex solutions for her patients.

Lia is committed to providing her patients with the highest standards of dental care using latest technology and materials available. She puts you at

ease in a relaxing gentle manner to help you feel comfortable at all times.

In addition to family dentistry East Belfast Dental & Implants offers Composite Bonding, White fillings, Porcelain fillings, Metal free Crowns, Beautiful bridgework, Facial Aesthetics all with Lia. Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants are provided by Peter. Pat also makes beautiful, custommade dentures. He has been making them for 40+years - there is nothing he doesn’t know!

Ring 02890451966 to book your New Patient Exam.

Come to East Belfast Dental & Implants for all your family dental needs. https://

A Community of Rooks

Rooks are worth crowing about, writes JV Allister.

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

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

iridescent. But then looks, or singing ability, are not everything. They live in communities, colonies if you like, roosting together, nesting together, because as we all know there’s safety in numbers. You will seldom see one feeding on its own, and indeed group feeding in a field or on my lawn ensures that all areas are explored for insects, leatherjackets and other invertebrates, as they strut around like ancient soldiers armed with a blade. Their nest sites, high in a stand of tall trees, are of course called rookeries, but

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

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

control, or leadership, by the dominant birds. Given that rooks are much noisier than jackdaws, it seems likely that they’re even better at communicating. There is no doubt that rooks rapidly pass on information about new locations of discovered food to one another, and they also have a hierarchy, a pecking order, which plays an important part in their lives. In their roosts, the elders claim the best protected positions, while juveniles make do with exposed outer branches, and it is thought that this is where the information-

exchange takes place, bird to bird, branch to branch.

When I was a kid, being called ‘birdbrain’ was an insult. Because

of what we’re starting to understand about rooks, and indeed other smart birds, it may be more of a compliment.JVA

Another dazzling result and review for the Helens Bay Dental Team

“Thank you all ever so much I couldn’t recommend you enough! All super nice! I’m super pleased with the result”

This is the latest of 100s of reviews gained by this local family run Dental clinic where you can have all your treatment in 2 beautiful clinics side by side in sleepy Helens Bay!

You could be looked after by a team of 6 Dentists, 3 Dental hygienists, therapists and an amazing team of dental nurses and receptionists

The team at Helens Bay Dental has grown 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 local highly experienced team on 02891853304, info@ helensbaydental.co.uk or on social media, Instagram and Facebook

Want to wake up with energy and motivation for the day ahead?

Jennifer Dunseath from Solution Hypnotherapy NI explains that reducing stress is key to getting a good nights’ sleep!

The single most effective way to improve your sleep is to reduce your stress – when we are stressed and anxious our busy mind finds it hard to get to sleep, it can also wake us in the middle of the night and keep us awake. The most common symptom people mention when they first come to see me is poor sleep. When they see me the following week they often comment that their sleep has improved already.

Most people don’t expect a lesson on how the brain works when they come to my clinic for the first time, but the most common response

I get at the end of that session is “that makes so much sense, that is exactly how I have been feeling/behaving.”

I can teach strategies to help calm the mind and promote rest. Rest can take many forms –physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional and social. I also provide a relaxation download to listen to at night, that makes a big difference. Ultimately it is the work the client does in changing the way they think that allows them to deal with and reduce their anxiety, their sleep improves and then the changes they make from that point can be

astonishing! Being Solution Focused we don’t talk about their problems we focus on how they want to feel, how they want to behave, so sessions are usually very positive experiences.

I love my job, I am so lucky to be doing something that makes people feel better and gives them to tools to continue to improve.

Customer quotes

‘Jennifer, what have you done to me, I woke before my alarm, I have cleaned and hoovered the inside of my car and now I’m about to wash it! I feel good! Thank you!’

‘Jennifer, thank you for helping me find the

Another busy ye A r A t Le A dhi LL Prim A ry s choo L

At Leadhill Primary School it has been a busy start to the school year, welcoming new children and families to PreSchool Playgroup and Primary 1 as well as classes throughout the school.

It is always a busy time of the year, settling into new routines and taking on new challenges.

Leadhill parents recognise the value of a primary school setting where every adult knows every child. This personal touch helps to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can flourish. Our school welcomes and supports children from all backgrounds and promotes inclusivity and child-centred approaches.

confidence to change my life. I’m looking forward to my new adventure!’

Jennifer Dunseath

The children are excited to return to school to see the growth of our new orchard, hedging and edible garden as well as to begin making use of the new greenhouse, purchased using the Live Here Love Here pollinator grant last year. Harvesting the goodies from

the planting will be a real highlight this term. There is great excitement to see the Toddle Time group restarting each Wednesday from 9 – 11am. The group provides a social hub for carers, babies and toddlers alongside structured activities to promote physical and emotional development in young children.

There are still a small number of places available in our Pre-School Playgroup, which runs each day from 9:15-12:15, for children from 2 years 10 months.

If you would like further information, visit our website on www.leadhillps. com or phone the school office on 028 90401101 to arrange for a visit.

Spooktacular Howloween Bone-nanza a mu S t for dog owner S and pet S!

Sarah Matthews Dog Training & Molly’s Delights dog bakery are proud to be hosting a spooktacular howloween bonenanza on Saturday 28th of October at Saint Simons Community Hub, 10AM - 4PM.

Join us for a mini market displaying some of Northern Ireland’s best local doggie and nondoggie businesses!

There’s something for everyone with a selection of children’s activities, fancy dress competitions, tasty treats and the opportunity to chat to a qualified trainer and nutritionist about all things dog - this certainly isn’t a day to be missed!

Sarah Matthews Dog Training offers a variety of services

We Can’t Save Lives Without You

Air Ambulance Week 2023 takes off across the UK from 4 – 10th September, to raise awareness of the lifesaving work of air ambulance charities. Air Ambulance NI is celebrating the national awareness week after another busy summer.

Since the first tasking in July 2017 until the end of July 2023, the service has been tasked 3,718 times. Delivered in partnership with Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, the duty crew which is compiled of a Pilot, Doctor and Paramedic are tasked on average twice per day to the most critically ill and injured people across the province with the aim of saving lives, brains and limbs. The charity needs £2.5m per year to deliver the service.

within Northern Ireland. Their trainers strive to provide bespoke training that supports you & your dog in reaching your goals, all whilst building confidence and having fun together!

Fully qualified & insured, teaching dogs and owners the skills they need to succeed using reinforcement based methods is at the heart of the business. They offer a range of training packages and solo sessions all of which

can be tailored to meet your needs, goals, lifestyle & budget!

As a birthday surprise, for the month of September

Sarah will be offering a 10% discount on all training sessions/ packages booked!

Not sure where to start? Get in touch with Sarah for a chat about how training can help support you & your dog!

www.smdogtraining.

co.uk

Info@smdogtraining. co.uk 077 29 620 307

During national awareness week, organised by Air Ambulances UK, Air Ambulance NI will be joining other air ambulance charities around the UK delivering the vital message that “We can’t save lives without you!”

Air Ambulance NI needs your support to continue to deliver advanced pre-hospital care to people with a sudden life-threatening injury or illness, helping to save lives

and improve patient outcomes. There are many ways to support Air Ambulance NI which will truly be making a difference to someone’s life. One of the most impactful ways you can support is by joining Club AANI.

Members of Club AANI help to keep the service operational 365 days a year, by making a small donation each month. Regular donations create sustainability for this crucial lifesaving service and allow the charity to predict regular income levels to keep the helicopter flying while looking towards the future. In return, members receive an exclusive welcome pack which includes a limited edition gold pin badge, monthly updates on the work of Air Ambulance NI and an invitation to an annual members get-together. You can ‘Become a Member in September’ from as little as £2 per week, find out more at:

airambulanceni.org/ club-aani-membership/ Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI said: “Every time the helicopter lifts off, we are reminded that it is thanks to the support of our local communities. Air Ambulance NI needs to raise £2.5million each year, or £6,850

a day. It’s not just the medical team who can save lives. You can be a lifesaver too by becoming a member this September.”

The HEMS is provided by way of a partnership between the charity Air Ambulance Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. The service

brings urgent medical assistance to anywhere in the province, operating seven days a week for 12 hours per day. The helicopter can get to anywhere in Northern Ireland in approximately twenty-five minutes. On average, the service is needed by two individuals in NI every single day.

newtownards win at this year’s retail nI High Street Hero awards

Ballymoney has taken a top award at this year’s High Street Hero awards, confirming its gold status as High Street of the Year 2023 in a major Northern Ireland online poll.

The hugely successful High Street Hero NI awards is a joint initiative powered by Retail NI and supported by Camelot, Roam, Strategic Power Connect and Belfast Live.

Retail NI, which represents the independent retail and wholesale sector in Northern Ireland, first launched the High Street Heroes NI awards in 2020 to recognise and reward local retailers and their impact on local communities – and this year’s event was

its most successful yet, with more than 12,000 online votes cast.

“What this year’s High Street Hero awards has shown is that people care passionately about where they live, shop and socialise and they wholeheartedly recognise the importance the role in which independent retailers play in ensuring their town and cities are great places to be around and where communities and the local economy can thrive,” Glyn Roberts,

Retail NI’s chief executive said.

From Londonderry to Lisnaskea and Belfast to Ballymoney, a total of 33 finalists were represented across 13 categories this year, which included first-time winner of Northern Ireland’s ‘Green Retailer’ of the year which was won by NISA Fresh Food Centre in Castlewellan.

The High Street Heroes NI Award Winners for 2023 in the local area are as follows:

Best Butcher David Mawhinney &

Sons, Bangor - Bronze

Best Coffee Shop

Maxemoo, Millisle - Silver

Sugarcane Café

Bistro, Comber – Bronze

Best Deli/Bakery

Brownie on the Hill, Dundonald - Silver

Best Generalist

Retailer

NCG, Newtownards - Gold Brew & Yaki, Newtownards – Bronze

Best Green Retailer

McRobbie’s Retail, Newtownards - Silver

Best Homeware Retailer Wardens, Newtownards - Silver

Amour Flooring, Bangor - Bronze

Best Off License McBrides on the Square, Comber - Silver

High Street of the Year

Newtownards - Bronze

For further information, visit https://retailni.com/ High-Street-Heroes/ High-Street-Heroes2023-Winners

Why no W is the right time to celebrate!

our successes, we are more likely to feel motivated and energized to pursue new goals. Celebrating can also help us build confidence in our abilities and remind us of what we are capable of achieving!

Finally, celebrating can be a way of expressing gratitude for the good things in life. When we take time to celebrate, we are acknowledging the people and experiences that bring us joy and happiness. This can help us cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for what we have.

Celebration is a way of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in life. It is a way of recognizing the positive aspects of life and taking time to enjoy them. There are many reasons why right now is the time to celebrate. For one, we have made it through some challenging times recently. Celebrating acknowledging our resilience and strength in the face of adversity. It can also be a way of reconnecting with others after a period of isolation or distancing. Another reason to celebrate is that it can help us build momentum for the future. When we take time to celebrate

In conclusion, there are many reasons why now is the time to celebrate. Whether it is to acknowledge our resilience, build momentum for the future, or express

OPEN ITF TAEKWON-DO CHAMPIONSHIPS TO BE HELD IN LISBURN!

gratitude for the good things in life, celebrating can help us feel happier, more fulfilled, and more connected to others. So even if you’ve no reason to celebrate right now – here are just a few reminders of occasions that are important to mark!

Birthdays: Now that term time has recommenced so has

children’s birthday season – Most kids have a very busy Saturday afternoon schedule! Kids love activities built into the celebration time so get busy organising and keep them busy.

Bigger Folk need to celebrate those milestones too and feel appreciated – nice meals or weekends away with mates don’t

just book themselves you know!

Achievements such as Exams Passed a Promotion at work or a business award won should be celebrated so that everyone who contributed to the success is actually rewarded!

Whatever occasion you are marking go as big as you can or go home – and party on!

Taekwon-Do has become the fastest growing Martial Art in Northern Ireland, as a sport it is graceful and powerful yet dynamic, exciting and fun. It is suitable for both males and females, children and adults from the age of 3 years upwards. The UKTC (N.I.) offers a three tier system for students depending on age and ability, which presents a step-by-step approach to learning this particularly popular style of Martial Art.

To promote the advantages of TaekwonDo and sport in general to younger children, our ‘Little Tiger Cubs’ programme has been specifically designed to cater for children 3-5 years old.

Its aim is to introduce basic martial arts skills through a mixture of simple games, fitness drills, and TaekwonDo training. This training programme aims to assist in the physical development, improved health, and increased fitness of each child. The programme will encourage the development of motor skills, balance, endurance, flexibility, strength, and the coordination of eye, hand and foot. Through this development, each student, junior and adult, should find greater self-confidence and self-esteem.

Our Little Tiger Cubs syllabus has a structured grading system to teach

our young members that good attendance, good effort, and good behaviour will help them to achieve their goals in life. Our youngest members are awarded certificates, award stickers, and promotional badges to be worn on their suits. To check it out and get an idea of what we do, follow the link below. http://www.uktc.co.uk/ LittleTigerCubs.aspx

A very successful European Taekwon-Do Championships was held in June 2023. This major sporting event showcased Taekwon-Do in Northern Ireland and attracted competitors from all across Europe. We are now looking forward to the Open ITF Taekwon–Do Championships which will be held in the National Badminton Centre (Lisburn Raquets Club) on 24th September 2023. For more details about this event see the link on our colour advert.

For students aged 5-8 years we have ‘Active Tigers’ which will allow students to develop their TaekwonDo skills at a more relaxed pace while retaining some of the fun elements of’ Little Tiger Cubs’. It will also allow children to progress through the grading system in a more ‘Bitesized’ fashion, while our more formal TaekwonDo classes and the white suit which goes with it, is something for our younger students to aspire to.

https://youtu.be/ JKJR_y337aQ

In Northern Ireland the largest Taekwon-Do group is Leo Maguire TaekwonDo Schools. Leo Maguire, as the Northern Ireland National Coach and President of Northern Ireland ITF, he has brought the N.I. National Team to victory at both National, European and World levels. This level of expertise is now being passed on to the group’s current students as the fully qualified instructors are all national team members and dedicated to encouraging each child to achieve his or her full potential. For adults, our structured training program offers fitness, friendship and self-defence.

The group runs classes for Little Tiger Cubs, Active Tigers and Taekwon-Do in over 100 classes at various locations across the province. To find out more please visit our website at

www.taekwondo-ni. co.uk or our Facebook page, alternatively, contact Leo Maguire directly on 07891191494.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION & SALE OF MARGEY ORIGINALS AT THE CULLODEN COMING SOON

Portrush based artist Adrian Margey will be returning to the Culloden Estate & Spa with his latest Exhibition and Sale of work from Thursday 19th – Sunday 22nd October.

The artist is looking forward to showcasing his most recent depictions of North Down, Ards Peninsula, Mournes, North Coast, Belfast and Donegal with collectors and visitors to the much anticipated annual exhibition.

Margey’s reputation is growing both at home and overseas, having held his first USA exhibition in Washington DC last

year.

Although Adrian holds a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast, he is a selftaught artist.

Adrian cites the Fauves, the Irish Impressionists and the indigenous artists of South America as his main influences.

His signature

‘contemporary’ style combines a kaleidoscope palette with lazy

brushstrokes and expressive knife work. His use of bold colour, strong shapes and expressive texture conjures up moods and often evokes an emotional response from the viewer.

Increasingly though, the artist is recognised for the breadth and the versatility of his output. His more impressionistic style which uses naturalistic

colouring is now also in demand.

Margey’s exciting new collection will showcase his extralarge canvases as well as smaller works in a variety of styles and colour palettes. The artist’s commission diary is now open for Christmas and visitors to the show are welcome to discuss their ideas for bespoke pieces with the artist at the

exhibition. The show opens on the evening of Thursday 19th October: 6-9pm and continues Friday 20th & Saturday 21st October: 11am – 8pm and Sunday 22nd October: 11am – 6pm. Admission is free – everyone welcome. For more information visit www.adrianmargey. com or telephone the Portrush Studio on 07841593762.

Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument

Is learning to play a musical instrument a dream that you know will never happen? Well, as the old quote goes: “the distance between your dreams and reality is called action.” You can learn to play an instrument like a pro, and once you hear all thebenefits that come along with playing music, you’ll be more motivated than ever!

Extensive studies have shown that children display long-term positive results from playing musical instruments. In fact,

thebenefits of music have been proven more effective in strengthening abstract reasoning skills in younger and older children than does

teaching them computers skills.

Kids aren’t the only ones who can reap the benefits of learning an instrument.

Adults will also gain tremendously from playing a musical instrument. Music has been shown to reduce stress, increase productivity,

develop creativity, and build confidence.

Here are a few ways you can live a better, happier, healthier life just by picking up an instrument and learning to play the music you love.

You’ve probably heard that playing a musical instrument makes you smarter, but is that really true? Let’s take a look at how music affects the brain to answer that question. There has been a ton of research done to determine whether music is simply a mood enhancer or if it does something in the brain to improve cognitive processes.

Recent discoveries have led scientists to believe that both listening to and playing a musical instrument makes you smarterbecause these activities actually release more BDNF, CREB, and synapsin I, all elements that strengthen mental capacities. So playing a musical instrument produces brain-building compounds and neural growth factors that are making you smarter, stronger, and better at doing activities throughout your day.

Some of the brain benefits of learning a musical instrument include

increased comprehension and math skills, better coordination, and a greater capacity for memory.

Another question on this subject is does music help you study? According to these finding, yes. Playing music will make learning easier by involving both sides of the brain in the process.

So studying an instrument will be easier than studying any other subject since you’re growing your brain power as you practice and learn!

Music is also proven to help tremendously in social situations, including work environments, friendships, and even more involved relationships. The training that the mind and body go through to develop musical comprehension is the same as the training required to develop speech and verbal skills, essential components in any relationship. Additionally, music training develops the same muscles that will assist you in cooperation, timemanagement, organization, and concentration/listening skills. These are all skills that any relationship management expert will tell you are necessary for navigating healthy relationships.

Music training also strengthens a person’s selfexpression and helps you to break out of your inhibiting barriers (get up there and play!). So develop your musical talents, and you will be a team leader no matter where you go!

It’s no secret that music plays on our emotions. The right song can make us feel elated, angry, or confused. Music can make us cry before our brain has even had time to ask why. Music

has a powerful pull on our emotions, and you don’t need to be a scientist to confirm this as fact.

What’s more, playing music can have some fascinating psychological benefits. Regularly playing an instrument teaches you perseverance, discipline, and responsibility, important skills for accomplishing anything in life. Playing music also fills you with a sense of accomplishment; after all, you should feel good about mastering a song, difficult chord, or instrument!

Most of all though, playing music makes people happy! There are few pleasures in this world that can be compared to the high you feel from sitting down with your own instrument and letting your soul flow through your body and out across the freeing flowing chords of a musical piece. Discover the stressrelieving power of playing your own song.

Artist Adrian Margey photographed ahead of his Solo Exhibition at Culloden Estate & Spa: Thursday 19th – Sunday 22nd October.

A weekend of c A stles A nd the zoo w A s perfect!

Our Roving Reporter takes her wild bunch to Dublin Zoo staying at Clontarf Castle

A break away before the madness of school started again and no better place than Clontarf Castle in Dublin. A quick drive down the motorway and you are in Dublin in an hour and a half from Belfast.

We booked in for two nights in a family executive room. The staff at the reception were efficient and pleasant in directing us to where we needed to go.

When we got to our room, we were more than happy with the space and luxury that greeted us. The regal décor made for a relaxing couple of nights. There were two double beds and little nooks and crannies for the kids to snuggle up with their books, snacks, tablets and blankets. There was plenty of wardrobe space, a spacious bathroom and

all the provisions you need of tea, coffee and water.

We spent our first evening in the Knights Bar for a three-course dinner which was really appetising. We had a mixture of curries, fish, burgers and chicken wings which were all delicious. We finished the meal with a Baileys coffee, a favourite of mine!

On our second we went to Dublin Zoo which is the perfect day out for the family even when the weather was questionable. It did ease off once we arrived so as long as we had our raincoats, we were fine. We delighted at seeing the lions, elephants, rhinos and sealions. We stopped halfway round for our lunch which we purchased at the hot food trucks. Many people bring their own picnics and there are plenty of tables and

spaces to use if this is what you intend to do. Another firm favourite for our little ones was the family farm towards the end of the route around the zoo and of course the gift shop to buy their much

needed soft animals to remember their day.

Following our trip we made our back to Clontarf Castle and enjoyed an hour in the lobby area watching on as a beautiful wedding emerged. We had a

Passport Photos

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Having a UK passport phototaken is unfortunately no longer a matter of finding any old photo booth.

Tough new criteria and the introduction of biometric technology to combat fraud will mean that your UK passport photograph must have the precise requirements.

Incorrectly taken UK passport photos have become the main reason for UK passport applications being rejected.

drink and thoroughly enjoyed the relaxation which the Castle offers in abundance. Because we were so happy with the meal on our first night we went back to Knights and had dinner there again. The staff

were very helpful and courteous, and nothing was too much trouble. We had a wonderful time at Clontarf Castle and it give us the rejuvenation we needed before the craziness of September began!

Kodak Express Newtownards are a recommended supplier of passport and driving licence prints by the Post Office. Our technology covers every country worldwide including UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, India and Australia.

We will take the time to ensure that your passport and visa photos

are correctly sized and meet all the required specification. As a result our UK passport photos will never be the reason for your passport application being rejected. Your UK passport photos are taken by helpful staff equipped with professional lighting and printed on biometric approved paper. No appointment is needed. Call in now and within minutes you will have a set of quality UK passport or visa photos in your hands.

Visit Kodak Express today in 13 Frances Street or ring 02891828601 for your biometric approved passport and visa photos.

Finding the per F ect tutor

Whether it’s for exam preparation, learning catch up, tackling problem areas, building confidence, or supporting a child’s enthusiasm for a subject, more and more parents and guardians are seeking the perfect tutor.

When it works well, private tutoring can be life changing. It allows teaching to be completely focussed on your child’s needs and their particular way of learning. Personalising learning in this way can really help to identify and tackle gaps and areas of weaknesses in a child’s learning. 1-1 support can improve a child’s confidence and help them to develop effective study skills. It can improve their enthusiasm for a subject and their general engagement with learning.

How do I know if my child needs a tutor?

Your child’s teacher is the best person to discuss this with initially. They should be able to advise if they think tutoring would be helpful. There may be other things that are worth trying first.

Teachers will be able to know if there are any additional resources available at school or any extra support that they can give. There may be online resources or apps they can recommend that might help.

Do ask your child whether they think they need extra support.

Obviously, for tutoring to work well, your child needs to be on-board with the idea and willing to engage with the process.

Some children will be enthusiastic about getting extra help whereas others might need some persuasion. Involving your child in the decision to get a tutor and the choice of tutor might help with this.

What qualifications should I look for in a private tutor?

Although the tutoring sector is booming,

tutors are not currently regulated, so anyone can set themselves up as a tutor. There are no formal qualifications for the role. This means that you will need to check that a tutor has the qualifications and experience that are important to you. Tutoring agencies should do their own checks on tutors’ qualifications. Some tutors are members of The Tutor’s Association which has a code of conduct and offers training and qualifications.

As a minimum all tutors should have a DBS certificate verifying that they have been checked to work with children. Tutors should have a copy of their certificates and be happy to show them to you.

Tutors should also have had experience of working with children and strong

communication skills. In many cases the best qualification for tutoring is a teaching qualification. Do check that teachers are offering tutoring for a similar age group or subject to their area of training. As well as having valuable classroom experience, tutors who are teachers usually have a strong knowledge of the exam systems and some are even examiners as

well. Even if a tutor is highly qualified in the area that they are teaching, they will still need to understand how children learn and be aware of the curriculum that has to be covered. This is especially important if you are looking for a tutor for a particular exam, less so if it’s to support your child’s interest in and enthusiasm for a subject.

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

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

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

The practice has been shortlisted in no fewer than 3 categories including:

Most Improved Practice

This category celebrates those who have seen significant changes or upgrades covering decor, equipment, and or/improved business growth, patient referrals and developed a great team approach!

Best High Technology Practice

This category is designed to recognise practices embracing the latest digital technologies available to improve clinical outcome AND will recognise the practice using digital workflows to provide the highest levels of patient care.

Practice of the Year!

This is a regionally judged award, looking to reward those practices that stand out from the crowd, those

who truly care for the patients and are dedicated to providing the best in oral healthcare.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place in September at the beautiful Clontarf Castle in Dublin.

The ceremony has fully established itself as a prestigious occasion, recognising and rewarding clinical excellence throughout Ireland!

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

Nigel Smith

Dental Care is at 107 Hamilton Road, Bangor BT20 4LN Tel: 028 91270657 www.

nigelsmithdental.com

Holywood Dental Care is at 128 High

Street, Holywood BT18 9HW Tel: 028 9042

3306 www. holywooddentalcare. co.uk

If you are looking for support for your child for a specific exam, the transfer test, GCSEs or A Levels, then it is important that the tutor has experience of teaching to that exam, that they know the syllabus and understand the mark scheme.

If tutors are offering

support in specialist areas, such as dyslexia or special educational needs check that they have qualifications in these areas and that they are members of the relevant professional bodies, such as BDA (British Dyslexia Association) or PATOSS (Professional Association of Teachers

of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties).

If you or your child is not happy with the tutor you are working with, don’t be afraid to make a change. All tutors and all children are different and sometimes it can take a few attempts to find the right combination.

How do you c H oose a good secondary sc H ool?

Choosing a good secondary school in Northern Ireland can be a daunting task. According to nidirect, each school will have its own admissions criteria, but within a national framework. You can submit between three and six school preferences depending on your local authority. Northern Ireland secondary school places are allocated by the school’s governing body, an academy trust or the local authority.

Here are some tips for choosing a good secondary school: Study the admissions criteria of any school you like the look of and which make geographical sense for your family.

Look beyond your local public secondary school and consider how different schools might suit your child’s personality, strengths, needs and interests.

Consider how different schools match your personal values and preferences.

Visit the schools you are interested in and

ask questions. Schools should be very happy to entertain you and be informative. Open days and evenings can offer a good opportunity to have a look around the schools you are considering, to chat with staff and existing pupils and sometimes parents. Register with your preferred schools now to be informed about any coming up.

Where can I find the top Northern Ireland schools?

The Guardian, The Times and The Telegraph websites allow you to add filters to their published league tables. You can pull out those schools for which you are in the catchment area. Then compare your chosen school group on those criteria which are most important to you.

How do I interpret Northern Ireland school league tables?

Firstly, the Northern Ireland school league

table rankings are based on national key standards.

Secondly, non-exam based criteria are also used to determine the rankings.

And then finally, by conducting your own analysis to determine which school best suits your child’s specific needs.

Check the latest Ofsted report too. Each Ofsted report is an analysis of that school’s teachers’ professional competence Plus, whether Ofsted’s performance standards have been met across the school. There are three possible outcomes: underachieving; achieving; or outstanding.

To search you put in the name of any school. You then can access its history of Ofsted inspections and their associated scores, percentage of Progress 8 success, etc.

More refined searches are also recommended.

You can also check out this article on School Entrance Tests which lists the best state secondary

schools in Northern Ireland for 2023. The list includes Lumen Christi College, Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Friends’ School Lisburn, Strathearn School, Rathmore Grammar School and Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School. Find the full list at www. schoolentrancetests.com

Searching for roller garage door S that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable price S?

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

Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla garage door.

Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla garage door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications. From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy salesmen in sight. As well as installing your garage door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always be on hand to answer any

questions you might have. Offering style as well as substance, Garolla electric garage doors are available in 21 colours and come

in two different slat sizes to perfectly fit any opening. Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of

measuring, fitting and VAT. For more information visit their website www.Garolla. co.uk or, alternatively, give them a call on 028 7100 1279

The full electric Jeep Avenger makes its debut on the European roads

The all-new fully electric Jeep Avenger, in Europe marks the beginning of the next phase of the electrification of the Jeep brand – the BEV wave – that will see four fully-electric vehicles hit the market by 2025. By the end of 2030, the Jeep brand’s European sales will be 100% pure electric.

The Avenger packs the Jeep DNA into a compact SUV with a unique combination of capability, style, functionality, and technology. Avenger is completely manufactured in Europe and has been designed to perfectly fit the needs of European customers with features including:

Functional design: Avenger has been designed to offer 360° protection and full freedom of movement. Its 360-degrees shock protection encased protected lights and colourmolded skid plates make it the ideal travel companion in urban and off-road driving.

Compact dimensions: at 4.08 meters it is the most compact Jeep and can comfortably fit five people with their stuff.

Roomy & versatile interior: the interior of the Jeep Avenger continues the “design to function” premise and has lots of space for everyday objects. It offers 34 liters of interior storage, the equivalent of a carry-on bag. The 1 meterwide, square-shaped trunk is also spacious and extremely versatile. Each compartment has been designed with flexibility and modularity

in mind: the central tunnel can be organized in multiple modular storage pockets by means of a divider that can be moved – or even removed. Thanks to original solutions like the flexible cupholder divider and the foldable magnetic cover, the entire content of a cabin baggage can be stored in these boxes.

Sustainable powertrain: Avenger offers zero emissions and 100% adventure and passion with an electric range of up to 400km WLTP and up to

550km in town* to really go anywhere. Standard fast charging mode allows to recharge 30 km (average daily need) in 3 minutes, and to go from 20 to 80% in 24 minutes.

Cutting edge technology: All-terrain and all-weather capability translates into fun and safety and Avenger leads in the B-UV segment in both respects. A complete series of safety and ADAS features which in the electric version provide level-2 driving autonomy include: Blind Spot

Monitoring, Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vulnerable Road Users (pedestrian and cyclist) protection, automatic parking and 180-degree rear camera with drone view.

Fully Connected: made for “always connected” customers, the new Jeep Avenger ensures a great digital on-board experience. A 10.25-inch radio screen Uconnect Infotainment combined with full digital cluster available in two variants (7 and 10.25 inches) comes as standard.

Ballyrobert Launches Astra Electric

Vauxhall is celebrating the recent launch of the Astra Electric with British artist Iain Macarthur, who has created two eye-catching murals in London and Manchester.

On display until 27th August, the murals encapsulate Vauxhall’s drive to be at the cutting edge of design and artistic expression, and the collaboration with Iain Macarthur highlights the company’s commitment to British design influences.

The murals, which are on display in Shoreditch, London, and in the Northern Quarter in Manchester, utilise Macarthur’s unique surrealist style to convey a vibrancy and dynamism which reflect both the high performance and the Bold and Pure design language of the Astra Electric. It is this design philosophy which won the Astra a coveted Product Design award at the prestigious Red Dot Award international design competition earlier this year.

The Astra Electric features Vauxhall’s next-generation 54kWh battery and a 115kW (156hp) electric motor and is capable of up to 258 miles of range (WLTP) from a single charge. By 2024, all Vauxhall cars and vans will be available with a fullyelectric version, and by 2028 Vauxhall will be an electriconly brand.

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “This mural celebrates not only the launch of the exciting Astra Electric,

Industry Awards ‘take off’ with Air Ambulance NI

Air Ambulance NI announced as the official charity partner of the first ever Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards

This new awards initiative, designed to help acknowledge and celebrate the industry’s leading motoring businesses and professionals, will culminate in a glittering gala black-tie event on Friday 3 November. Title Sponsor of the awards is Used Cars NI with support from Media Partner Cool FM. Attendees will have the opportunity to support the crucial work of local charity Air Ambulance NI on the night via donation envelopes and by participating in a charity raffle.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI commented: “We are delighted members of the automotive industry will be extended the opportunity to support our work through these new awards. Northern

Ireland’s Air Ambulance teams assisted in more than 3600 taskings between July 2017 and May this year. With the help of the business community and the wider public we can continue to save lives and help those in urgent need of medical attention.”

News of the partnership coincides with the announcement that the deadline to enter the inaugural NI Motor Industry Awards has been specially extended to 8 September, with an additional category now included.

Sasha Jeffrey, Event

Director commented:

“Those working in the local car industry still have time to be part of the Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards which will not only celebrate the achievements of our thriving automotive sector but also raise muchneeded funds for Air Ambulance NI, one of the region’s most-recognised and invaluable charities.”

“We would encourage businesses and individuals to go online and browse our 19 award categories including a brand-new award for Automotive Technician of the Year. This represents

an opportunity for those who keep our cars on the road and in top condition to receive credit for the hard work, dedication and expertise they show every

working day.” For further information or to enter please visit www. nimotorindustryawards. com.

but also our Bold and Pure design language which draws from the best of British art and innovation.

I look forward to seeing Iain’s work in person and thank him for being part of creating something the public can enjoy in London and Manchester.”

For further information on New Astra Electric and Astra Plug-in hybrid models contact Ballyrobert on 028 91852262 or visit ballyrobert.co.uk

Leaky L oo? Here’s w H at you can do!

Did you know that one of the biggest culprits for wasting water at home are toilet cisterns? A toilet which is constantly leaking clean water from the cistern into the pan can waste around 200 to 400 litres of water a day. That’s approximately 2.5 – 5 bath tubs, or enough water for up to 7 loads of washing.

Leaky loos have become a more significant problem recently due to a number of factors; the change in design of toilets to dual flush, along with more households replacing their water systems to mains-fed bathrooms which increases water pressure.

John Mulgrave, Water Regulations Field Manager at NI Water says “1 in 20

households have a leaky loo and yet they often go unnoticed. The leak could look minimal, and some people may even think this is a design feature to keep the toilet bowl fresh.

The worst of leaking toilets can waste up to 8,000 litres a day – which is equivalent to 100 bath tubs!

It’s easy enough to check if you have a leak and if you

do, it’s easy to repair.”

Would you be able to tell if your toilet is leaking?

How to check if a loo is leaking:

If you can hear a flow of water when the toilet hasn’t been flushed or can see a slight but constant trickle at the back of the toilet pan, you may have a leaky loo. Wait until 30 minutes after the last flush then wipe the

back of the pan dry with toilet tissue.

• Place a new, dry sheet of toilet tissue across the back of the pan.

• Leave it in place for up to three hours without using the toilet (it might be best to do this overnight).

• If the paper is wet or torn in the morning, you know you have a leaky loo.

Or, why not order

your free LeakyLoo strips and other water saving goodies by visiting www.getwaterfit. co.uk and simply entering your postcode.

If you have a leak they normally are pretty straight forward for an approved plumber www.niwater.com/ watersafe-approvedplumber/ or keen DIY-er to fix, either by adjusting or replacing the bits inside a cistern with new parts for under £10. Make sure the new parts are compliant with the water fittings regulations. To do this, and to search for a watersafe approved plumbing business near you go to www. watersafe.org.uk.

To help us make sure

there is enough water to go around, we need to save it where we can, which is why it is so important to fix leaking toilets. There are other things simple things you can do around the home to save water.

Tips for House:

• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth - A running tap can use 6 litres of water per minute.

• Make full use of your washing machine - Half load programmes on washing machines use more than half the water and energy of a full load, so wait until the machine is full before switching it on.

• Take shorter showersWhy not challenge yourself and your family to shower one minute quicker? In a

year you could save up to 10,000 litres of water!

• Take a shower instead of a bath - One bath can use up to 100 litres of water, whereas an efficient shower uses under 50 litres. But remember power showers can use more water than baths.

• Car washing - Avoid washing cars and vans

frequently, use a bucket and sponge NI Water are encouraging customers to sign up to its free text alert service which keeps them updated about anything that may impact on their water supply or any of our other services in the area. Sign up here https:// www.niwater.com/registerfor-keeping-you-informed/

Amp up the ambience In Your Bedroom

Often underestimated in the overall design plan table lamps have the power to add just the right amount of charm. It illuminates the room, sets the mood right and provides soft task lighting for bedside reading. How does one lamp change your life you ask?

Get better sleep: Using your phone in the dark is bad for your eyesight, but it is too bright with all the lights on. With a table lamp, you can dim the room to induce a more cosy feel, which allows you to catch more ZZZs.

General Lighting

Purpose: Of course, one must not forget that only adding tube lights or bulbs wouldn’t brighten up the bedroom. So, one must have another option to illuminate the entire portion of the bedroom, and that’s where bulbfitted lamps come under rescue.

Focus on specific objects: When engrossed

in any work such as study or projects, then the usage of these lamps will not only ensure to provide you with the standard lighting, but it will also throw light on the object of concern such as a book.

Mood: Bright and catchy light always enlightens the spirit of the individual. Colourful lights have a positive influence on the surrounding area. Thus, these everlasting lamps fill this spot in a much efficient manner. Thus, bringing the desired jovial mood altogether.

Night torch: One can say that lamps can act as a night torch as dimming its intensity can be useful for those individuals

Pre P aring Your g arden for a utumn

who do not sleep without light. So, one can say that it acts as a night lamp.

As a piece of sculptural art. There are thousands of variations of lights out

there for your specific needs, wants and style, so make this a starting point rather than an afterthought to create your dream bedroom!

essential Home maintenance Jobs

Check the sealing on your windows and doors. Drafty windows and doors are some of the greatest sources of energy inefficiency in the home.

Check your windows and doors and apply— or reapply—caulk or weather stripping as needed.

Remove your summer screens. Screens are great for keeping bugs out during the summer months, but they can trap dirt and debris against your windows during the fall and winter months. Remove them before the first frost.

Clean your gutters and spouts. Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your home’s foundation, so it’s important to clean them out before the leaves start falling.

Prep your home’s heating system. Before you turn on your boiler for the first time this season, make sure it’s in good working order by having it serviced by a professional.

Service your chimney and flue. If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, have your chimney cleaned and inspected before you start using it.

Spot-check your plumbing system. Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances that use water. Care for your lawn and landscaping. Rake up leaves and debris from

your lawn to prevent them from suffocating the grass over the winter months.

Clean out the greenhouse of spent foliage and plant debris. Replace any broken or storm damaged panes or clips. Buy some bulbs and celebrate planting

season! Clear up any outdoor planters update with later autumn flowering plants and save any flower tubers for next year. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Check your insulation in attic or crawl space.

As the summer months draw to a close, it is time to begin preparations to make your garden ready for the autumnal season. Whilst spring was the ideal time for planting new plants and summer the perfect time to watch them grow, autumn is a time that you will need to protect your garden. The cooler weather and the increased amounts of rainfall will require certain measures to ensure that your garden is protected. It might seem simple, but many forget to move some of their vulnerable plants indoors as the cooler weather begins to take hold. Either moving your potted plants and herbs indoors or into a dedicated greenhouse will give your plants to protection that they dearly need to continue growing for a longer period of time.

Throughout the summer period you will have had an abundance of seedlings fall all over your garden and it is important to apply weed killer at the beginning of autumn to stop these from sprouting. It is of the utmost importance to keep your pets away from the garden if you

put weed killer down as ingesting the poison can cause a great deal of harm to your animals. As the days grow shorter, you will notice that the speed at which your garden grows will shorten considerably. This means that you will not have to cut your grass quite as often, however it is important to do so as regularly as required in order to ensure that

your grass stays full when it grows back in the spring. Similarly, it is important to keep your garden tidy and not allow leaves to build up as they begin to fall onto your property. Letting them build up over time will cause considerably more mess as they will begin to decompose and be harder to remove.

The slower growth provides the perfect opportunity to tidy

up your flower beds and displays. Whilst their vibrancy might begin to decline, the slower growth means that they will be more manageable. It is important not to forget about your evergreens. Every garden shout have at least a few ever green plants to keep some life throughout the cold winter months. Whilst these plants are tough, it is important not to neglect them.