The Lisburn Advertiser 93

Over 3,500 sh O ppers brave the c O ld t O supp O rt l O cal at s pring Farmers’ m arket

In spite of the unseasonal wintery conditions that led to a last minute venue change, the people of Lisburn & Castlereagh came out in force to support their local traders and suppliers at Saturday’s Spring Farmers’ Market, hosted by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

Originally planned to take place within the city’s Castle Gardens, event organisers quickly made the decision the day before to change the location to Market Square, to ensure safe conditions as a result

of the weather. Over 3,500 families and friends descended on the city centre to enjoy the entertainment and crafts whilst browsing the artisan food, art and beauty stalls that were offering their own

bespoke produce and products, unique to Northern Ireland. If that wasn’t enough, shoppers could also enjoy lunch on the move from one of the many vendors serving-up street food eats.

New

paint

stencils

introduced to deter dog fouling in the council area

New paint stencils are being introduced to discourage dog fouling in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

Designed by Siobhán

Curran, a pupil at St

Ita’s Primary school, the new ‘Pick it up’ stencil will be applied by enforcement officers in hot spot areas where dog fouling is a problem. The temporary image, which lasts a few weeks, will be used to prompt dog walkers to ‘pick up’ after their pets.

Endorsing the new initiative, Chair of the council’s Environmental Services Committee, Cllr Martin Gregg said: “The paint stencil is a welcomed approach to tackle the ongoing issue of dog fouling in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The aim is to deter dog

owners from letting their dogs foul in public. Dog fouling is not only irresponsible and unpleasant, it also poses serious health risks, especially to young children. As a council, we are committed to reducing dog fouling and hope that the stencils act as a trigger to remind dog walkers of the importance of picking up after their pets.”

Dog walkers are encouraged to carry bags and to dispose of any waste in a nearby litter bin. Please be reminded that if you fail to pick up after your dog, you could face a fine of up to £1000 in Court.

Commenting on the success of the market, Alderman Allan Ewart MBE, Development Committee Chairman, said:

Continued on page 4

Alderman Allan Ewart with traders, ‘Wild Child Foods’ & Tom & Ollie.

Community heroes celebrated at council awards ceremony

Community heroes in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area have been recognised for their selflessness and commitment to others.

Six winners’ names were announced at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Mayor’s Community Awards recently .

The guests joined the Mayor, Councillor Scott Carson and Paul Clark at La Mon House Hotel to celebrate the significant role volunteering plays in the Lisburn & Castlereagh community.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Carson said: “By its nature, volunteering is about giving – helping to improve the lives of others and our community as a whole. People give their time in many different ways and I want to recognise and applaud everyone who does that – you are very special.

“Tonight, I am proud to have the opportunity to recognise the fantastic work you do. These awards reflect our appreciation, as a council, for the dedication you show to others. We appreciate your efforts for your friends, neighbours and service users. Together we continue to work towards creating better communities for everybody.

“We are recognising a variety of strengths in our categories this evening - from our ‘Youth Champion’ and ‘Brian McDowell Volunteer of the Year’ to the ‘Stronger Together’ and ‘Mayor’s Choice’ awards.

“Our community heroes make me proud to represent the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. I would like to thank everyone who made nominations this year and also our partners - the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Volunteer Now and the Education Authority for their continued support.”

The winner of the Mayor’s Choice Award category was Ben Annett who volunteers with Brooklands Youth Centre. Ben said: “I’m a bit overcome actually – I never expected to win an award never mind two.

What an honour to receive the Mayor’s Choice Award!

I am delighted to be able to ‘put something back’.

“I get so much from working with our young people. They range in age from 5 to 19, with different

abilities. No two days are the same when undertaking projects that each young person engages with in their own unique way. I would like to thank the young people for their part in helping me develop as a mentor and a leader.”

The category winners were:

Youth Champion Award

- Falemaka El Vave, from LCC Community Trust Community Spirit Award

- Stevan Wallace from Ballymacash Regeneration

Network

Brian McDowell Volunteer of the Year Award - Ben Annett from Brooklands Youth Centre Stronger Together Award

- Killynure Community Association

Transforming Lives Award – Stepping Stones

NI Mayor’s Choice Award –Ben Annett

The Stronger Together Award winner was the Killynure Community Association. Accepting the award on behalf of the group, Pamela Leighton-Greer said: “As a group of volunteers we and partner with a number of organisations on a regular basis to help enhance our local community. We deliver projects to keep our young people engaged and offer opportunities for our older residents to socialise. Cross-community is the focus of our work as our community is for everyone. As a group our different skills and experiences really does make us ‘stronger together’. This award means more than I can say.

108-112 Queensway, Lisburn, BT27 4QP Circle K Supervalu 97-99 Knockmore Road, Lisburn, BT28 2EA Evans Farm Shop

187 Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 1JA Gwen’s Confectionery

5 Milltown Park, Lisburn, BT28 3TP Spar Foodmarket

156 Belsize Road, Lisburn, BT27 4DR Spar Garvey

127 Longstone Street, Lisburn, BT28 1ES

Sweeney’s Newsagents

19 Smithfield Street, Lisburn, BT28 1TH

Rosies Emporium

UNIT 33 Bow Street Mall, Lisburn, BT28 1AW

DROMORE

Poole’s Supervalu

16 Banbridge Road, Dromore, BT25 1NB

The Olde Mill Garden Centre

19 Diamond Road, Dromore, BT25 1PH

CRUMLIN & GLENAVY

Denis Wilsons of Glenavy

160 Moira Road, Glenavy, BT29 4LR

Dunmurry family fundraise for BHF NI in memory of Tommy

A Dunmurry family have raised £1,540 in memory of their late husband and father to support the work of the British Heart Foundation in Northern Ireland.

Jacqui English and her children, Jamie and Beth, raised the money in memory of Tommy English who died from a suspected cardiac arrest in 2017.

The money was raised at a charity football match, the Tommy English Cup, involving Lisburn Rangers Football Club Lisburn Distillery Over 35s in November.

It was held at Lisburn Rangers’ ground, Stanley Park, in Lisburn in November and was well supported by the local community.

Tommy was a stalwart member of Lisburn Rangers Football Club and died from a cardiac arrest in 2017 at 50 years-old.

Each year, there are around 1,400 out-ofhospital cardiac arrests in Northern Ireland and sadly less than one in

Glenavy Garden Centre

26 Main Street, Glenavy, BT29 4LW Spar Glenavy Village

71 Main Street, Glenavy, BT29 4LP Centra Foodmarket

1A Glenavy Road, Lisburn Costcutters

11 Tully Road, Crumlin, BT29 4SW

DROMARA

Harry’s Country Store

166 Banbridge Road, Kinallen, Dromara, BT25 2NF

Today’s Local

18a Rathfriland Road, Dromara, BT25 2JG

HILLSBOROUGH

CO-OP Food

Hillsborough, 8 Lisburn Street, Hillsborough, BT26 6AB

Spar Hillsborough

7 Ballynahinch Street, Hillsborough, BT26 6AW

TEMPLE

Spar Carryduff Road

82 Carryduff Road, Temple , BT27 6UA

Temple Garden and Farm Shop

88 Carryduff Road, Temple, BT27 6YL

ten people survive.

Every minute without cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation reduces the chances of survival by up to ten per cent.

Early CPR and defibrillation can more than double the chances of survival in some cases.

Following Tommy’s

Continued from page 1

“After a week of uncertainty due to the wintery weather, we were thrilled to have been able to change the venue and therefore deliver the market for those involved and those

death, his family have been involved in numerous fundraising activities for the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland. Through their latest fundraising initiative, the family purchased a defibrillator which will be installed at Stanley Park to help save lives in the event of an

who came along to support. As always, we were blown away by the diverse offering displayed by traders within the council area and wellknown local traders from across Northern Ireland.

Alderman Ewart continued, “Shoppers with a sweet tooth

emergency.

Head of British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland, Fearghal McKinney said:

“I thank the English family, Jacqui and her children, Jamie and Beth, and everyone at Lisburn Rangers for their fantastic fundraising efforts and for their continued

had a wide range of decadent treats to tempt their tastebuds, including delicious cupcakes from market favourite, Rosie McNeill Cakes. The Daily Apron was also onsite to serve up a wide range of baked goodies, including their ‘famous’ ‘sausage rolls. A unique addition to the line-up of street food was a new offering from plantbased producers, Wild Child Foods, whose products went down a treat amongst even the most committed meat eaters!

“Mother’s Day shoppers also came out in their droves and took advantage of the wealth of thoughtful

support for the British Heart Foundation in Northern Ireland.

“We are truly grateful and privileged for their ongoing support.

“Their fundraising efforts help support the lifesaving research carried out by the British Heart Foundation which will help save lives.”

gifting options including organic and vegan skin care from Plumpy Balms and handcrafted jewellery from Monday’s Child. There will be plenty of mothers who will be pleased this weekend!”

Following on from the success of the Spring Farmers’ Market, the council’s first food and drink market of the year, will be old favourite, the Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market, taking place on Saturday 25th March. For more information on this market and upcoming opportunities to support local producers and makers visit www.visitlisburn castlereagh.com.

Head of BHFNI Fearghal McKinney, on left, pictured at Stanley Park, Lisburn with, Jamie, Beth and Jacqui English who raised £1,540 for the BHF in memory of the late Tommy English.

OLYMPIC SKATING DUO LEAD LOCAL ICE SKATERS TO COMPETITION SUCCESS

From their Northern Ireland coaching base at Dundonald International Ice Bowl, former Olympic skaters Kevin van der Perren and Jenna McCorkell led four of their local skating team to success at the ‘Blackburn Opens’ competition in England, earlier this month.

Competing across several categories, the local skaters each secured notable competition success, between them securing a second-place silver medal, as well as fourth, fifth and eighth place positions. Taking newly choregraphed programmes to the ice, they also increased their previous personal best scores by an average of five points each, and achieved competitive national test passes enabling progression to the next skating level.

Included in the team is Jodie Dowling (from Lisburn): Silver medal (2nd) place and competitive test pass achieved at National Level 5 (Non ISU), with personal best score This success comes after intense focus by international coach Kevin van der Perren and his wife and coaching partner Jenna McCorkell, to develop the technical skating and presentation skills of their Dundonald based team.

After representing Belgium at three Winter Olympic Games and securing two European Championship bronze medals, Kevin is now an international coach and

technical specialist, splitting his primary coaching responsibilities between Northern Ireland (NI) and Belgium, with Dundonald International Ice Bowl as his local coaching home.

Fellow Olympian and eleven-time British champion Jenna McCorkell, completes the coaching powerhouse, with the husband-and-wife team working closely together to develop their team of local and international skaters.

Commenting on the skaters’ performance, Kevin

said, “After months of hard work to enhance core skating skills and develop new techniques, we are immensely proud our NI team’s performance, as they competed against skaters from across the UK.

“Our ambition, as we coach and develop our skating team at Dundonald, is to build the next generation of local skating talent here in NI, and the recent success of our team at Blackburn gives us a solid foundation for further growth”.

Jenna added, “After 20 years of professional skating and coaching internationally, I am delighted to have relocated back ‘home’ to where my skating career began. Working in partnership with Kevin, it is immensely rewarding to see the accelerated progress of our local skating team.

“As we continue to nurture local talent, I am excited to see how ice skating can further develop and continue to grow as a competitive sport in NI.”

Former Olympian and Dundonald International Ice Bowl based coach Kevin Van der Perren, pictured with skaters (L-R) Madison Moore (Comber), twins Emily and Katie Young (Belfast) and Jodie Dowling (Lisburn), following their recent competition success at Blackburn Opens.

Loca L Primary Schoo L c hi L dren Bring i T on a T S erc

Over 80 children, parents and guardians attended Come and Try IT workshops aimed at introducing primary school-aged children (from 4-12) to the world of computing at SERC’s Bangor, Downpatrick and Lisburn Campuses in partnership with the Bring IT On initiative.

Ryan Major, Deputy Head of School for Computing at SERC said, “We were delighted with the response to our six, free to attend, 2-hour sessions, which saw children and their families conduct a series of computing related challenges linked to computational thinking, problem

solving, security, encryption, recursion and logical processes.

He added, “The fun, interactive sessions, developed by some of our current Level 3 students, provided inspiration for parents and guardians to further develop children’s Science, Technology, Engineering and

Maths (STEM) skills. The sessions also raised awareness of computing as a potential career amongst the children, highlighting direct links between the activities and those who might utilise them in the workplace.” Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.

Majestic Day for Lisburn & Castlereagh

The City of Lisburn & Castlereagh Mayor’s Carnival Parade & Family Fun Day will have a Majestic Parade through the city centre and family fun in Wallace Park on Saturday 22nd April 2023.

We hope to see our residents enjoying pre-parade entertainment in the city centre, the spectacular parade and entertainment in Wallace Park, Lisburn from 12 noon to 5.00pm.

The Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day combines the dazzling spectacle of the UK

and Ireland’s most celebrated carnival acts and a host of fabulous entertainment experiences. The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Scott Carson, highlights what’s on offer at this year’s epic event!

“I am thrilled to

have the opportunity to celebrate with our community at this year’s Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day. It is an honour to have this special day for me included in the council’s King’s Coronation programme. Local schoolchildren and community groups

will bring a majestic themed parade of dance, style and music to our city centre. It is set to be an entertaining and eye catching day for all!

View the programme online at https://www. lisburncastlereagh. gov.uk/mayorscarnival-par ade-and-family-funday

Popular Royal Hillsborough Farmers’ Market ‘back in action’ on 25th March

The extremely popular Royal Hillsborough Farmers’ Market is set to return for the first time since late 2021, to attract visitors far and wide on Saturday 25th March. The artisan market will take place along The Dark Walk in the historic village of Royal Hillsborough from 10am to 3pm.

A fantastic mix of local artisan producers, traders and makers are lined up to take part in the market.

The farmers market has gained massive credibility within the ‘foodie’ scene throughout Northern Ireland over the past few years. Offering a diverse range of artisan food and drink, street food, speciality coffees, art, crafts and organic skincare, market goers can expect more than 50 traders at The Dark Walk, Hillsborough Fort. Encouraging people to attend the upcoming market, Alderman Allan Ewart MBE, Development Committee Chairman said, “The Royal Hillsborough Farmers’ Market has always been a firm favourite within the council’s food and drinks programme, so we’re delighted to announce its return for 2023. Visitors to the market can expect a diverse range of seasonal produce and horticulture, as well as a carefully considered selection of designer craft and sustainable living products from producers and vendors

from across Northern Ireland. The consistent quality of local produce is a testament to the village and the wider council area.”

Market offerings will include, speciality rarebreed meats, seasonal and local vegetables, awardwinning charcuterie, preserves, chutneys and pickles, Irish Artisan Cheeses, fresh bread, cakes, street food to enjoy on the go, plants and much more.

Alderman Ewart MBE added, “Paying a visit to Royal Hillsborough any weekend is guaranteed to be a great day out for friends and families due to its array of interesting shops, eateries and

attractions. Taking in the historic sites of the Royal Hillsborough Fort and Forest, Hillsborough Castle, and the other historic buildings throughout the village is also a must. Planning a visit in line with the Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market will ensure a memorable day out.” A selection of popular artisan producers many of whom have become very well-known at the markets will make their return in 2023, including local meat and seafood producers Ballyriff Buffalo, Castlescreen Farm and The Oystercatcher. Other returning artisan and street food favourites will include

Tom & Ollie, Round House Bakery, Rosie McNeill Cakes, Indie Fude, Tribal Burger, Pig Out, Pizza Table and Loki’s Coffee. For those keen to pick up something to pamper themselves, their home or a gift, makers and traders will include Plumpy Balms, Rebecca May Jewellery, Potters Hill Plants and Thomas Powell Pottery. For more information on traders and a full programme of events visit visitlisburncastlereagh. com or follow Visit Lisburn Castlereagh on Facebook.com/ enjoylisburn, Twitter @ VisitLisburn and Instagram @visitlisburncastlereagh.

Move to Universal Credit – what’s happening in Northern Ireland?

From April 2023 the Department for Communities (DfC) in Northern Ireland will start the process of moving some Tax Credit claimants from their current benefit onto Universal Credit in a project known as ‘Move to UC’.

How will this change happen?

Between April 2023 and March 2024 a small number of people living in Northern Ireland, who are in receipt of Tax Credits only, will receive a Migration Notice letter telling them that they need to claim Universal Credit (UC).

If selected, you will receive a Migration Notice letter from DfC telling you that you have to claim UC within three months and explaining what you need to do to claim UC. Contact details for help and support will also be included in the

Migration Notice letter.

People who make a claim for UC following receipt of a Migration Notice letter and who are entitled to less financial support through UC than they received on their previous benefits will receive a top up called ‘Transitional Protection’. This means they will not be financially worse off in their benefit entitlement at the point of transition to UC, if their circumstances have remained the same.

What about people on other benefits?

There are approximately 80,000 households in Northern Ireland in receipt of a benefit which will be replaced by UC. If you are in receipt of any other benefits such as Job Seekers

Allowance, Income Support or Housing Benefit you will not be affected at this time. The government plans to have those claimants moved over to UC in 2024-25. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) claimants will not begin managed migration until 2028-29. Can I choose to move to Universal Credit even if I don’t have to?

Yes – some people will find they are better off on UC than their existing benefits but this won’t be the case for everyone, and if you move to UC you will be unable to move back to your previous benefits, even if you find you are worse off. So we recommend anyone considering a move

to UC to get independent advice to make sure it’s the right option for their circumstances.

Further information

To discuss how a future

claim for 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 UC or by remaining on your existing benefits. Freephone 0800 028 3008 or email hello@ employersforchildcare.org.

New venue shows good taste as Belfast Wine School comes to The Haslem Hotel, Lisburn!

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a vino-loving novice, you’re sure to learn something new and have a great time doing it at Belfast Wine School - now at a venue near you!

Learn how to taste wines from around the globe. Guided by a friendly expert you’ll discover new countries and grape varieties, as well as understanding why we keep going back to the old favourites.

Evening tastings are perfect for those who are

new to wine or who want to understand the basics of wine tasting. You will taste at least six delicious wines from around the wine-making world and be provided with many helpful tips to help enhance your enjoyment of wine. By the end of the evening you will be swirling, sniffing and

tasting like a professional, while understanding what wine characteristics you like and why you like them. You will gain confidence when buying wine to be able to look behind the label and understand the style of wine you’re going to be drinking.

The Saturday Course taking place on 17th June is

a full day wine experience.

It includes Champagne on arrival and a delicious 2-course lunch! An ideal gift for the wine lover in your life. You will taste no less than 12 wines, from all over the world, and learn all about different styles of wine, including how to make amazing food and wine pairings. The day is suitable for anybody, from beginners to budding connoisseurs and is a relaxed, informal event.

Love Cheese? Love Wine?

Why not come along to our cheese and wine matching evening on Thursday May 4th at the fabulous Haslem Hotel and learn more about the best cheese and wine pairings to enjoy at home.

Prefer nothing more than a glass of Rioja and a packet of Tayto? Our Wine and Crisps evening on Friday 19th May is perfect for you! We will taste 6 delicious wines and match them with 6 different crisp

varieties - while sticking to the principles of food and wine matching. You never know what you might like! An ideal gift for the wine and crisp lover in your life!! Summer is an ideal time to explore refreshing white wines of the world and you can do just that at Haslem Hotel on Friday 16th June. We’ll explore the huge variety of styles and flavours you find in white wines by having a whistle-stop tour of the globe. Not only will we taste the classics, but we’re also going to dig out some lesser known gems that you may never have tried before.

More courses will continue to be added and Gift Vouchers are available. Our fun tastings and courses make a perfect gift for any occasion. Private tastings, corporate events and parties all available on request, give us a call 079 3833 6785 or see www.localwineschool. com/belfast

Make your land work twice as hard with solar

No one in the rural community needs to be told that the current economy is hard on farmers. Costs are high, profits are uncertain and the future feels very unclear.

Leasing land for solar and storage is a sustainable way to secure long-term, index-linked income for your farm for decades to come, and you can still farm the land once the panels are in place.

Solar farms are the perfect place to graze sheep, so you will find that by renting your land for solar you’re able to make the acres work twice as hard – income from the panels, and income from your flock. Solar panels provide shade and shelter for sheep, while the secure fencing offers protection from predation and harassment. Research across the world, from America to Australia, suggests that solar grazing is a win for your sheep, and your bottom line.

So it’s not surprising that solar is becoming an increasingly popular option for farmers and landowners across the UK – it’s weather-proof, comes with decades of

guaranteed income and has the added benefit of having significant positive impacts for the land, the local community and the environment. Lightsource bp is leader in UK and Irish solar - we’ve been active in Northern Ireland since 2013, and to date have developed around

60% of the operational large-scale solar in the country. We’ve got a superb local track record of building relationships that strengthen the rural economy, making us the ideal partner for any landowner looking to make the most of their land, secure long-term income and contribute to

the fight against climate change. Want to know more about how solar can support your business?

Get in touch with our solar experts via northern.ireland@ lightsourcebp.com and 0289 424 0923, or visit www.lightsourcebp.com/ uk/for more information.

Fitness e xpert’s 7 t op t ips to s top Cheat Meals r uining Your Diet

There are lots of different diets, but regardless of why you are dieting, it will inevitably involve following a pre-determined eating plan and giving up some of your favourite foods. Unfortunately, following a restrictive diet can lead to feelings of deprivation, cravings, and hunger.

Patrick Dale, personal trainer and fitness expert at FitnessVolt.com has prepared this guide to help stop cheat meals from overtaking your health.

1. Make a schedule

If you don’t plan your cheat meals in advance, you are much more likely to cheat. So, choose a day and a time for your cheat meal and commit to maintaining your diet right up

to that point. Knowing when your cheat meal is due to happen gives you something to look forward to and may stop you from cheating more often.

2. Don’t have more than one cheat meal

A cheat meal is exactly that – a single meal or snack. Don’t let your cheat meal roll over into the next day or the weekend. So, try

not to schedule your cheat for a Friday night.

3. Cheating isn’t bingeing

There is a huge difference between a rewarding cheat meal and a junk food binge. After a week of healthy eating, you may feel ready to eat your entire body weight in ice cream or pizza. Instead, practice sensible portion

control to avoid turning a cheat meal into a binge. Order regular-sized portions of cheat food instead.

4. Exercise first You can make the effects of your cheat meal less impactful by eating shortly after exercise. Intense workouts mean at least some of your excess calories and nutrients will be used for fuel or driven

away from your fat stores.

5. Don’t keep junk at home

If lack of willpower means you cannot resist junk food at home, make your home a junk foodfree zone. Don’t buy cheat foods to store for later, it will just tempt you into breaking your healthy habits.

6. Don’t cheat at the start

of your diet

Be honest and base your cheat meal frequency on where you are in relation to your goal. The closer you are, the more cheat meals you can afford. But, if you’ve still got a long way to go, you need to focus on dietary compliance, and even planned cheats could make sticking to your diet harder than it

needs to be.

7. Keep eating healthy

It’s all too easy to let a cheat meal become a cheat day. Instead, break the cycle by ensuring that your next meal adheres to your current diet. Think of your cheat meal as “one and done.” The sooner you get back to your regular diet, the faster you’ll get back on track toward your goals.

All’s well when the lawn’s well.

Over recent years many of us have found a new appreciation for our garden spaces. They truly do provide a space for relaxation and recuperation and the best garden is enjoyed alongside a luscious

green lawn. Whether your garden is large or small, we’re here to help you achieve a lawn you can all enjoy.

GreenThumb Lawn Treatment Service expertly treat lawns – turning them from tired, weed infested grass areas, to lawns you can be proud of. GreenThumb Lisburn is family-owned, with a team of fully trained, local lawn operatives.

We have three treatment programmes that include 5 treatments per year of unique bespoke feeds, professional herbicides, and our Oasis water conserver. Plus, additional beneficial treatments dependent on the treatment programme. Whatever problems your lawn may suffer from, you can rest

assured we will have a solution to transform your piece of grass into a lush, weed-free centrepiece to your garden.

It’s not just when we treat your lawn, you’ll benefit from GreenThumb. You can contact us any time for advice on all things lawns, because we know the secret to a perfect lawn is working together. Get in touch today for a FREE

lawn analysis and noobligation quote: lisburn@ greenthumb.co.uk or 02890 357 850.

TIP: One of the most important lawn care jobs for a good-looking lawn is correct and regular mowing. As the weather warms up it’s likely your lawn will need mowing weekly. You should keep the cut between 25mm (1’’) and 40mm (1.6’’) in length.

Moira Bakery M akes a M ove in Bakery Market

Moira Bakery, the well established community bakery.

Moira Bakery has moved to a new state of the art manufacturing facility on the outskirts of the town.

Under the joint ownership of (soon to be!) husband and wife team Ryan and Louise the business is stepping up a level supplying to shops and the catering industry.

The bakery is famous for its’ breakfast breads and pancakes and this young energetic couple is always developing new lines such as choc

chip pancakes or have you tried their ginger and rhubarb wheaten?

Louise told the Lisburn Advertiser: “We are passionate about the ‘Moira Bakery’ brand and so very grateful for the continued support of the Moira community throughout the move. We are both very excited for the future of the Moira Bakery!”

You can see the Moira Bakery on Facebook, for trade or bulk orders phone: (0)77 8691 1283

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!

Get ready for t he 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 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

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.

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.

Crown Your Teapot competition launched to celebrate the Coronation

The Balmoral Show’s popular horticulture competition is back and this year participants are being asked to create a planted teapot to celebrate the Kings Coronation. The free to enter competition has three categories for budding horticulturists of all ages including Pre-School/Primary school, aged 12-17 years old and an over 18 category.

Ashleigh McGrugan, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) commented, “This year we are marking the Coronation with a very special themed ‘Crown Your Teapot’ competition. We are on the lookout for the most imaginative planted arrangement using a teapot and look forward to seeing all the creative entries at the Show.’’

Sponsored by Hillmount Garden Centre and 3T Power, the closing date for entries is Friday 7th April at 5pm. To download an entry form click here www. balmoralshow. co.uk/competitions/ other-competitions

Ashleigh McGrugan (RUAS) and Henry Patterson launch Balmoral Show’s ‘Crown Your Teapot’ competition. A horticultural competition open to all ages.

Sir Davi D a ttenborough S ay S

‘we mu S t act now’ to Save o ur w il D iS le S

In mid March, in their first major campaign together, the National Trust, the RSPB and WWF are urging everyone in society to come together to halt the destruction of UK nature and take urgent action to Save Our Wild Isles.

Millions of people from all walks of life discovered the wonder but also the fragility of UK nature through the first episode of the new Wild Isles series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

Now, three of the UK’s largest conservation charities, with 324 years of combined experience and 8.5 million combined members, are using their collective voice to call on all

sectors of society across the UK to act.

The Save Our Wild Isles campaign will engage the UK public and inspire them to act – highlighting not only how nature underpins everything that makes

our lives possible, but also how profoundly threatened it is. The charities say there is just enough of the UK’s natural world still left to save, and if everyone - the public, communities, businesses and our leaders all urgently work together to aid its recovery, nature can begin to thrive again within the next few decades. .

A new YouGov poll commissioned for the Save Our Wild Isles campaign revealed 70% of people in Northern Ireland are worried about the state of nature in the province, while 74% are worried about the state of nature in the UK. The UK is in the bottom 10% of countries globally for protecting nature [2], yet only 5% believe the UK to be one of the worst countries in

the world at preserving nature, with 61% mistakenly believing that the UK is on a par with the rest of the world or even doing better.

The UK is home to some of the most spectacular species on Earth – from puffins to orcas, bees, beavers, butterflies and ancient oak trees – but we are pushing nature to the brink. Last December, global commitments were made which highlighted we have just seven years left to halt and reverse the loss of our natural world [3].

To help support these calls, one of the first actions the charities will be taking is to engage hundreds of businesses and thousands of employees on the crucial impact that business plays in the fate of nature in the UK and providing tools and guidance on how to take positive action. The charities will also be providing guidance, advice and inspiration for how people and communities can play an active role in

restoring nature near to them. The charities’ partners and celebrity ambassadors are also encouraging everyone to play their part, with further announcements coming in the weeks and months ahead. In the last 50 years, 38 million birds have vanished from UK skies [4], 97% of our wildflower meadows have been lost since the 1930s [5], and a quarter of all our mammals, such as Greater mouseeared bats, are at risk of extinction [6]. The nature crisis and climate change are two sides of the same coin, so protecting nature is

key to stopping the destruction of our planet and our way of life.

The majority of the public in Northern Ireland see nature as a crucial lifeline and an essential part of daily life. Over three quarters (76%) of respondents were worried about the impact nature loss would have on their life.

Working with nature and not against it gives us cleaner air to breathe, better water to drink and healthier food to eat. A growing body of evidence also shows that time spent in nature makes us happier and

healthier.

Sir David Attenborough, WWF Ambassador has said:

“The truth is, every one of us, no matter who we are, or where we live, can and must play a part in restoring nature. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or powerless by the scale of the issues facing our planet, but we have the solutions. I am hopeful for the future, because although nature is in crisis, now is the time for action, and together we can save it.”

For more information and to Save our Wild Isles visit www. saveourwildisles.org.uk

Farm safety 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 accidentthe 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

• 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

Get More from Your Membership with Vitality!

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is encouraging everyone to get active and sign up for a great value Vitality membership package!

Membership provides both individuals and families access across all seven leisure facilities.

Venues include Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Glenmore Activity Centre, Grove Activity Centre, Kilmakee Activity Centre and the Vitality gym at Billy Neill MBE Country Park.

Members can enjoy an extensive timetable of activities, classes and courses to suit both adults and children across our sites. It’s the perfect option for anyone planning a family day out or looking to achieve a new fitness goal.

The package includes a choice of 6 gyms, swimming, racquet sports, fitness classes, kids’ classes and the health suite. Members can also access tenpin bowling, ice

skating and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl as well as the Leisure Pool and Mission

Inflatable at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Household membership is only £49 per month for

HANNON C OACH & S A il i S perfe C t f O r A C ity bre A k i N Gl ASGO w!

up to 2 adults and 5 children. There is also a household membership category for 1 adult and up to 5 children at only £39 per month.

Individual rates and a wide selection of concession packages

are also available too. To sign up for Vitality membership or for further details on the packages available, please visit https://www. theleisureplex. com/activities/ vitality-membership

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

Families enjoy the Leisure Pool at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex as part of their Vitality membership package.

Top 10 ways T o make your dishes heal T hier

Do you want to cook healthier versions of your favourite recipes without losing the taste? Never fear, here are a few tips that will help you adapt your favourite recipes to reduce fat, sugar, salt, calories and increase fibre without changing your normal diet radically.

1. Cut down on fats

If frying, use a good non-stick pan and dry

fry (e.g. in the case of mince). Leaving out the oil could cut 45 calories

per teaspoon in your meal. If your food is drying out, don’t add

more oil, add a little water. Use fats and oils that are high in good fats (poly- and monounsaturated fats), e.g. olive oil and try using less than the recipe suggests. Why not try grilling, baking, poaching, steaming or boiling foods instead of frying where possible?

2. Cut down on salt

Most recipes indicate that you need to add salt. Replace salt with alternative seasonings such as pepper, herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegar or mustard. Allow people to season their own food after tasting itthey are likely to add less. You could be eating more salt then you think, use our salt calculator to find out how much salt really is in your food.

3. Cut down on sugar

Experiment by using less sugar when you bake – most cakes will work even if the quantity of sugar in the recipe is

halved. Items such as fruit cakes, fruit scones and tea breads can be made without adding sugar as the dried fruit will provide sweetness.

4. Increase fibre

Use brown alternatives of rice, pasta and bread to increase the fibre content of recipes which will help you feel fuller for longer. Instead of using all plain white flour in recipes, use a mix of wholemeal and plain flour when baking, e.g. when making apple crumble –you can also add porridge oats to make the top crunchy and add more fibre! Top dishes usually requiring pastry, such as chicken pie, with mashed potato instead.

5. Soups and stews

Allow your broth, stew or soup to cool and skim off the fat that gathers on top of the liquid. Replacing some of the traditional fatty meats in stews with pulses like peas, beans and lentils

can save calories and fat as well as adding fibre.

6. Sauces and dips

Replace cream, whole milk and sour cream with semi-skimmed and skimmed milk, or low fat yoghurt. Low fat yoghurt and fromage frais can be used on hot or cold puddings and in dips instead of cream, double cream or Greek yoghurt. Fromage frais is fresh, skimmed cow’s milk cheese but is more like natural yoghurt. It is not suitable for use in cooking.

7. Cheese

Use strongly flavoured cheeses like mature cheddar or blue cheese in savoury dishes - you can use less and still get all the flavour. If you don’t like the strong taste of such cheeses simply use low fat alternatives of your favourites. Grate cheese instead of slicing as it will spread across a dish more easily and you can

use less. Replace cream cheese with low fat cream cheese.

8. Mayonnaise Replace mayonnaise in salads with natural yoghurt or low fat fromage frais.Better still, try using vinaigrette dressings and serving them on the side. When making sandwiches, choose mayonnaise or butter, not both.

9. Vegetables Flavour cooked vegetables with herbs instead of butter or oil. Replace some meat in dishes such as shepherd’s pie, casseroles and lasagne, with vegetables and pulses (peas, beans

and lentils). It is a great way to disguise vegetables for those fussy eaters. More tips on preparing and storing your vegetables!

10. Meat Trim the fat from meat and remove the skin from poultry before cooking. Then bake, grill, microwave, roast or poach instead of frying it. When roasting, place the meat on a grill rack –this allows the fat to drip away. If you are cooking minced meat, brown it and drain away the fat before adding other ingredients. Need advice on how to handle and cook meat correctly?

A Spring Break at The 4 Star Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo

Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo is bringing the best deals in Mayo directly to you.

Give yourself something to look forward to and treat yourself to a break away in the beautiful Ballina Manor nestled in North Mayo. The luxury accommodation will ensure you are totally relaxed during your stay. Each of the rooms are complete with fresh white linen sheets, duvet and large fluffy pillows to ensure you will have a restful night’s sleep. In addition to this our rooms come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and tea/coffee making facilities. You can choose from our many different room types for your accommodation to make your stay the perfect break away to the North of Mayo and the picturesque Ballina.

Gift an Experience!

If you are searching for that perfect gift idea for family or friends, gift an experience with a gift voucher at the 4 Star Ballina Manor Hotel. Give the

perfect present of gourmet food, fine wines, and luxury accommodation.

Whether you want to visit beautiful scenery, shop in Ballina Town or have a walk on the beach, there are endless options right on our doorstep during your stay with us. Mayo has some of Ireland’s finest beaches, coastal walks, cycling, majestic scenery and

an array of discovery points dotted all along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The West of Ireland is also famous for its activities and adventure sports, choose from Waterpoint Aqua Park, Paddle and Pedal or Westport House Pirate Adventure Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you are looking

for the perfect gift for a loved one at any time of year, a well-deserved treat for yourself or if you were planning on booking a break away to North Mayo, now is your chance to take advantage of their incredible stay offers or voucher savings at Ballina Manor Hotel. For more details of current deals and packages available see www. ballinamanorhotel.ie

Fine Dining and lots to see and do in Mayo at Ballina Manor Hotel, Mayo

5 Tips on Crea T ing a Wildlife f riendly g arden

Some people spend a lot of money trying to keep wild animals out of their gardens, but I actually prefer attracting more wildlife to mine.

If you enjoy seeing birds and other animals meandering about your garden spot, then you might find these tips useful. Here are 5 tips on creating a wildlife friendly garden.

Make a pond

Ponds are fabulous for growing exotic water plants, but they are also perfect for attracting cute little frogs. I love hearing the small frogs chirp in the evening as they call to one another from the water’s edge. Birds also like being able to get a fresh drink from time to time.

Plant catnip

My cats adore their bush of catnip. These plants may start out fairly small, but they grow into massive, bushy plants that cats like to hide in and nibble on. The bushes tend to keep the cats’ attention so they don’t notice the tiny birds flitting about the garden plants.

Grow some sunflowers

Larger seed-eating birds seem to enjoy the giant sunflowers I plant every year. They will sit on the giant heads and happily peck at the seeds in each one. This is a full-time job for these birds. Any

seeds that fall to the ground are picked up by squirrels and chipmunks.

Put a birdbath in the centre

Not only do birds enjoy the birdbath in the centre of my flower garden, but I’ve even caught the cats taking a sip or two while

they are outside playing in the yard. I change the water in the afternoon and at the end of the day, so the birds will have a fresh supply of water.

Add bushes for small animals to hide in Sparrows will sit and chatter to one another for

hours on end and there’s nothing cuter than an evergreen bush filled with these talkative little birds. The bush doesn’t necessarily have to be of the evergreen variety, since most little birds are happy to perch in any type of bush.

I have had a Blast! Is it your turn next?

Day Nurseries. Since then, my business has expanded to include classes throughout my franchise area including Banbridge, Dunmurry, Moira, Newry and everywhere in between!

Centres. I regularly visit Day Nurseries, School Nurseries, Parent and Toddler Groups and offer birthday parties.

working parents who are not free to attend during the week.

After 21 amazing years, I have decided to put my Jo Jingles franchise area up for sale. I was originally looking for a job which I could fit in around my children and where I could combine my love of music, working with young children and connecting with their parents and carers.

I opened my business in Lisburn back in January 2002 with just 3 parent classes and 2

I have held parent classes in Leisure Centres, Church Halls and Community

Jo Jingles (Lisburn) was the first franchise area in Northern Ireland to provide classes for babies aged 3 months to walking. Our Saturday classes are very popular with

The franchise model has enabled me to run my own business, have flexible working hours, enjoy security and support from the Jo Jingles Franchise Head Office as well as camaraderie from fellow franchisees.

I have observed how the regular exposure to music has helped many young children to improve language and speech and develop social skills and friendships. It’s been the best job ever but it’s time to pass this thriving business onto someone else. Could that person be you?

Exp E rt r E v E als how to dr E ss as a w E dding gu E st without upstaging and ups E tting th E brid E

The unwritten rules of attending a wedding are generally easy to achieve, with minimal effort: always RSVP, do not bring extra guests, make sure to be on time and most important of all… do not upstage the bride.

Fashion experts at Karen Millen have revealed top tips on ensuring you dress to impress without stealing the limelight from a bride at her wedding. Whether you are the mother of the bride or groom, in the bridal party, or just attending as a plus one, these tips are the perfect guide on how to dress appropriately with style. Does the bride have

preferences?

The first place to start when beginning to look for a wedding guest outfit is to establish if there is a theme or colour scheme the bride wants guests to stick to. If there is, you are one step closer to finding the perfect dress, and if the bride has not suggested which colours to look for, then politely ask if there are any colours she

might want you to avoid wearing. If you let the bride guide you, you will find something perfect.

What colours to avoid: You want to make sure the dress you choose compliments the style or colour scheme of the wedding, which will probably be common knowledge if you are in the bridal party. Still, if not, there are a few colours that will undoubtedly take away the limelight of the bride unless she has specifically asked you to choose these colours:

• Red: Visually, red is a bold and flashy colour that will immediately draw attention to you, whether that be in person or photographs; if guests surround you in neutrals and a bride in white, you may feel out of place with the tone of the wedding.

• Black: Many brides and grooms opt for a black and white-themed wedding which is perfect if that is the desired look, but wearing a black dress to a neutral wedding would be a bold choice. Black also absorbs heat and will cause you to get hotter faster, so if the location is on the beach or in a warmer season, you probably want to go for a lighter option.

• White: It might be obvious to some but wearing white to a wedding is best to be left to the bride to avoid any upset. Unless the bride gives the go-ahead to wear white or ivorylike colours try options in other light colours, such as pistachio greens and baby pinks.

What colours work well?

The main goal for a wedding guest is to blend in, but this does not mean your outfit has to be dull and drab. The best way to choose what colour dress to wear is to find out what is complimentary to both the wedding and you. By doing this, you will find something

you feel confident in and not take anything away from the bride.

Light neutral colours and pastel shades are a go-to as this keeps the aesthetic light and airy and allows guests to experiment with various shades and hues. Having guests in different pastels or neutrals also turns out great in photographs with a wide range of tones bringing the bright white or ivory of the bride’s dress to light.

Jewel tones and earth tones are also fantastic options for guests who have been allowed to wear darker colours but still want to inject some colour. What silhouettes work well?

Choosing the right dress for your body type can be difficult, especially if you do not like to experiment or try different silhouettes. The best way to learn how to compliment your figure and find something you feel confident in is to try on as many different styles of dresses as possible.

It is also important to remember that even though a particular style or silhouette is in fashion now, it does not mean that it is right for the theme or tone of the wedding.

• Think of the climate

– Steer clear from long sleeve dresses and thick coordinating jackets if the wedding you are attending will be held in the warmer months or abroad. Try to opt for breathable fabrics which will keep you cool and comfortable.

• Try flowy fabrics –There is nothing more elegant and effortless than a light and flowy dress as a wedding guest, but just remember to avoid any flowing fabrics that could have a bit of a train!

• Opt for a one-shoulder – One-shoulder dresses are fun and flirty but also ideal for spring and summer weddings as they still allow

for breathability.

• Maxi dresses are not off limits – It is fine to go floor length as a wedding guest if the dress is simple enough to blend in. If you are looking for a maxi or midi length dress, avoid purchasing those with big patterns colours.

Avoid sequins, extravagant patterns, and outrageous diamonds or jewels; although it is important for you to look your best, it’s also vital to have all eyes on the bride and groom. The same goes for large bold patterns and garish silhouettes; your outfit should be elegant and graceful.

Keeping it classy is also vital, as wearing something too revealing or scandalous could jeopardise the big day. Make sure if you are opting for a shorter dress that the length is appropriate to what the happy couple has specified in their dress

code - just as well as if you are opting for a backless or cut-out style dress.

Final tips to remember when choosing the right dress:

• Extravagant dresses, headpieces and trains are a no-go – Let the bride’s dress do all the talking.

• If in doubt, aim for neutrals and pastels – The perfect way to blend in and still look elegant.

• Avoid being too casual –Being too casual will have the same impact as wearing something over the top; nothing should take away from the bride.

• Dress to impress in comfort - Do not forget you will be in this dress for hours, so make sure the dress is flirty, comfortable, versatile and vivacious; you will be wearing this dress all day.

For more info see https://www.karenmillen. com/womens/dresses/ wedding-guest-dresses

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 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.

Hyundai reveals we’re a nation of sense checkers when it comes to pronunciation

Nearly three quarters of Brits (73%) say that they have a good grasp of the English language, yet a new survey has revealed that nearly half (47%) study the correct pronunciation online via a search engine to check that they’ve got it right.

The survey of 2,000 adults highlighted 45% also still turn to a dictionary or thesaurus to double check the pronunciation of a word or phrase.

The study, which has been commissioned by leading car manufacturer, Hyundai, coincides with its change from the anglicised pronunciation of ‘Hy-un-dai’ to the global pronunciation: ‘Hyun-day’. A change that marks a new era for Hyundai in the UK, with a tongue in cheek multi-channel advert and collaboration with Anglophile Korean Billy as he adapts to UK living and pronunciation. The research reveals the top 25 most

mispronounced words, with parliament, tenterhooks, quinoa and cache making the list.

Having updated our brand’s image and pronunciation locally, we wanted to explore pronunciation as a topic more broadly and get people talking about those words that we can potentially struggle with in everyday life, such as quinoa and espresso. We have teamed up with SeongJae, a.k.a Korean Billy, who is well known for his lighthearted YouTube videos into different dialects within the UK, to explore some British words from Korean standpoint.

Ashley AndrewManaging

Director, Hyundai Motor UK

The picture differs across the UK, with those in the North East have admitted to having difficulty with pronouncing ‘probably’ (28%), while the North West trip up over ‘zoology’ (19%) and the West Midlands have struggled with ‘quinoa’ (21%).

There’s also a split when it comes to men and women. The survey discovered that over half of men (51%) think that by simplifying words, it will make them easier to pronounce. In comparison, over half of women (51%) will turn to search engines to seek assurance in saying something correctly.

It also appears that there is an unspoken rule when it comes to correcting the way friends pronounce words and phrases, even if we know they might be getting it wrong. Just under a third (29%) have revealed that they wouldn’t correct someone else even if they know they had said a word

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

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

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 9246 0041

incorrectly.

To see more from Anglophile Korean Billy, take the pronunciation quiz and read more about Hyundai’s evolving brand by visiting: https://www.hyundai. co.uk/new-dawn.

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