Strabane Herald -October2021

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October 2021

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e may have just turned 10 years old, but Lifford youngster Kris Friel has already built up an impressive musical CV. While the lockdown periods meant a complete downing of tools for most musicians, Kris used that time to practice and develop his musical skills at home across a wide variety of instruments including piano,ukelele,guitar, banjo, drums and cornet, not to mention his incredible voice.

In 2020 his live performance of ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’, which he dedicated to all the front-line healthcare workers, went viral, being viewed and shared via his Facebook page Kris Friel Music, which was set up by his mother, Veronica. TV appearances followed on RTEjr’s

Donncha’s Two Talented and the Today show on RTE. Kris, who attends St Columba’s Primary School in Clady, performed for the Today show live from his living room to some 120,000 viewers up and down the country.

Aside from the music, Kris is active in the performing arts as a member of the Castledergbased Much Ado Stage School. He was also signed up by the Armagh-based agency Rising Talent. A passionate young sportsman, he also plays soccer for Sion Swifts’ 2011 team. For more on this enthusiastic, hard working rising talent.

See the ‘Total Music’ page 28 inside for the full story

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2 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Mayor reaches out to older community during Positive Ageing Month

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packed programme of local activity aimed at the older community is now underway during Positive Ageing Month. The campaign aims to shine a light on older people and provide them with an opportunity to engage with a wide range of organisations and activities that offer support services and opportunities to socialise and learn new skills.

Derry City & Strabane District Council, the Western Health & Social Care Trust and the Public Health Agency have come together to create a diverse programme of activities and events throughout October and are encouraging various groups and organisations to get involved.

Council is also currently engaging with the older community to shape a dedicated Age Friendly strategy prioritising older people and ensuring their health and well-being is a key consideration in the positive development of Derry and Strabane.

Work is underway to create an Age Friendly structure with partners and stakeholders to co-design the threeyear Age Friendly Strategy and action plan.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, said Positive Ageing Month celebrated the many positive aspects of growing older. “Positive Ageing Month offers the chance to celebrate the older members of our community, and the huge influence they have on our society. The onus is on all of us to respect and engage with older citizens, and really value their lived experience and knowledge they bring to bear when shaping policies and

programmes for our Council area.

“More people within our local community are living longer, healthier lives, so we must ensure that those later years are enriching and rewarding for growing old in our area. We must ensure that their needs are identified and prioritised and that we all take a more responsible and positive approach to life as we grow older. I hope to see lots of older people connecting with the programme

and the opportunity to enjoy new activities.”

Launching the campaign, Seamus Ward, Head of Health Improvement, Western Health & Social Care Trust said: “The programme of events that we have produced shows a variety of activities that exist throughout Derry-Londonderry, Strabane and Limavady areas for older citizens. In an ageing population, it is important we continue to work together to

encourage older people to reach out and help them re-connect within their local community, not only to reduce social isolation and loneliness but to help them live long, healthy lives. We also must not forget the valuable contribution older people make within our local community.”

Among the many highlights of Positive Ageing Month this year are opportunities to learn new skills and crafts, as well as events to entertain

and engage. Why not sign up for ‘Digital Development for the over 60’s’, relaxation workshops, Christmas crafts, line dancing, Japanese Craft Making, organised walks at various locations around the City and District, or even a virtual sing along?

• You can find out more about the full programme of activities at www.derrystrabane.com/ positiveageingmonth

OCTOBER | 2021

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4 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Boost your immunity this winter by getting the free flu vaccine

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In addition to most children and adults being eligible for the free flu vaccine, some groups will also be eligible for a first dose COVID vaccine or booster.

Flu and COVID-19 can both be life-threatening and spread more easily in winter, when we are more likely to be crowded together inside. Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to boost our natural immunity and protect ourselves from these viruses.

Dr Irwin continued: “With the predicted surge of flu likely during the winter months we cannot afford to be complacent about getting the flu vaccine this year.

Each year the strains of flu in circulation change, so new vaccines are formulated to reflect this. That is why it is so important that everyone who falls into an eligible category gets the vaccine annually – even if you got it last year, that won’t cover you for this year’s flu season.

Everyone who is eligible for vaccination should make themselves aware of their own GP surgery’s or community pharmacist’s flu vaccination arrangements, or look out for the consent form for their children coming home in school bags.

he Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone who falls into an eligible group to get the free flu vaccine, with the aim of boosting your immunity this winter. The ‘Boost your Immunity this Winter’ campaign combines the flu vaccine programme with the COVID-19 vaccine programme to help reduce the spread of flu and COVID-19 and lower hospital-related admissions for both. This is particularly important at this time when the health service is under severe strain.

Dr David Irwin, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Flu activity levels were extremely low globally in 2020 to 2021, mainly due to COVID-19 prevention measures. As a result, a lower level of population immunity against flu is expected this year. Now that restrictions have eased, it is expected that winter 2021 to 2022 will be the first winter in the UK when seasonal flu will co-circulate alongside COVID-19.

“For most people flu is a very unpleasant illness, but in some cases and for those in ‘at risk’ groups it can be very dangerous and sometimes fatal. That is why we have a wide-ranging vaccination programme which helps protect groups at particular risk in our community. This year will see a further roll out of the free flu vaccination programme to include school children up to year 12. Also this year the vaccine will be offered to 50 to 64 year olds from the start of the campaign.”

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “Last year saw the roll out of the biggest Health and Social Care influenza vaccination programme ever, with the aim of offering protection to as many eligible people as possible during the coronavirus pandemic and this year we have expanded the programme even further.

“Seasonal influenza and COVID-19 viruses have the potential to add substantially to the winter pressures usually faced by the HSC, particularly if infection waves from both viruses coincide. Therefore it is more important than ever that we take all necessary measures to help reduce the risk of flu circulating alongside COVID-19 during autumn and winter, to help protect ourselves, our families and those we come into contact with.”

Eligible groups for flu vaccine in 2021 to 2022 are: • All preschool children aged 2 to 4 years on 1 September 2021 • All primary and secondary (up to year 12) school children • Those aged 6 months to 2 years and 16 to 49 years in clinical risk groups • Pregnant women • Those aged 50 years and over • Those in long-stay residential care homes • Carers • Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals For further information on who is eligible to boost your immunity this winter see nidirect.gov.uk/articles/flu-vaccine

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rom October 2021, the requirements for pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS) food labelling changed in Wales, England, and Northern Ireland. Also known as Natasha’s Law, this labelling helps to protect consumers by providing potentially life-saving allergen information on the packaging.

Any food business that produces PPDS food is required to label it with the name of the food and a full ingredients list. Allergenic

ingredients must be emphasised within this list. This can include food that consumers select themselves, for example from a display unit, as well as products kept behind a counter, or some food sold at mobile or temporary outlets.

For more information log on to https://www.food.gov.uk/allergen-labellingchanges-for-prepacked-for-direct-sale-ppdsfood

Why are you being offered a COVID-19 booster?

ike some other vaccines, levels of protection may begin to wane over time. This booster dose will help extend the protection you gained from your first two doses and give you longer term protection. The booster will help to reduce the risk of you needing admission to hospital due to COVID-19 infection this winter.

The booster is being offered at least six months after your last dose. Like your previous doses, the vaccine will be given in your upper arm. Protection against severe disease from the first two doses seems to decline very slowly. So don’t worry if your booster vaccine is given a few weeks after the six months time-point. The booster dose should help to extend your protection into the next year.

The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of you suffering from COVID-19 disease. It may take a few days for your body to build up some protection from the booster. Like all medicines, no vaccine is completely effective – some people may still get COVID-19 despite having a vaccination, but this should be less severe.

If you have not yet had either of your first two doses of the vaccine you should have them as soon as possible. You will still need the booster but the timing of it will depend on when you had your first two doses.

There are very few people who should not have a booster. If you have had a severe reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine you should discuss this with your doctor. As with your previous dose the common side effects are the same for all COVID-19 vaccines used in the UK, and include having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection (this tends to be worst around one to two days after the vaccine), feeling tired, headache, general aches, or mild flu like symptoms. You can rest and take paracetamol (follow the dose advice in the packaging) to help make you feel better. Although feeling feverish is not uncommon for two to three days, a high temperature is unusual and may indicate you have COVID-19 or another infection.

OCTOBER | 2021

MEDICARE | 5

6 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

New Sion Mills play park officially opened

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AERA Minister, Edwin Poots MLA and Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, have officially opened a new play park in Sion Mills. The Parkside play area was delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council, with support from funding allocated by Derry and Strabane Rural Partnership under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.

Sion Mills was identified by the Derry and Strabane Rural Partnership as a strategic Village Renewal Project, with £195k in grant funding set aside for the new play park. The funding was part of the Rural Development Programme funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural

Affairs (DAERA) and identified through public consultation and the ‘Cluster Village Plan’. Council also contributed project match funding of £65k and an additional £32k to the new facility.

Equipment has been installed in the play area to cater for different ages and abilities and includes a wheelchair accessible ground flush roundabout, a variety of swings, sensory equipment and quiet areas with sound, visual and tactile elements. There is also a zip line, a pendulum swing, an obstacle course, multi units with towers, climbing nets and different slides.

Mayor Graham Warke said the new play park is a fantastic addition for the whole community.

“This is an absolutely first-class facility here in

Sion Mills that will bring a lot of joy to children and adults alike within the village. This is another example of Council’s commitment to our play plan provision and to supporting our rural communities as well. The open green space ties in with our Green Infrastructure Plan bringing environmental benefits as well as the social benefits that the facility has in attracting young people to this space.

He continued: “In my role as Chair of Derry and Strabane Rural Partnership (LAG) I am also delighted to see the Rural Development funding put to such good use. Without this funding the project wouldn’t have been possible, so it’s wonderful that the LAG has played a part in delivering this.”

Speaking at the opening of the Play Park in Sion

Mills, Rural Affairs Minister, Edwin Poots MLA said, “I am pleased that the Northern Ireland Rural Development ‘LEADER’ Programme, through the Village Renewal Scheme is making a real change to the fabric of rural villages and is supporting projects that are based on community need.”

Elaine Duffy, Parkside Residents Group, added: “We are completely over the moon with our new play area which has totally exceeded our expectations. It’s such a fabulous, inclusive space for everyone within our community and we are delighted to have a safe space for our children and young people to socialise together and get some exercise in. It’s a great meeting space for the village and I have no doubt it will be well-used and well-loved for many years to come.”

OCTOBER | 2021

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OCTOBER | 2021

Culture Night Great Success T

here was a fine array of talent on display as artists and performers showcasing their skills as part of Culture Night 2021. This year’s theme was ‘Come Together Again’ and it certainly was an opportunity for people to get together in outdoor open spaces and socially distanced venues to share the thrill of live performance once again.

Hundreds of people attended the packed programme of events and activities which took place at venues across the City and District. From al fresco knitting to circus skills there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham

Warke, said it was fantastic to see audiences enjoying the unique experience of live performance. “This has been a very difficult time for the arts and cultural sector, and it will take some time for the industry to recover to prepandemic levels.

“Events like Culture Night offer a platform for artists to showcase their work and re-engage with audiences once again, in safe and relaxed surroundings.

I want to congratulate all those who took part, both the organisers and performers, for coming up with this exciting medley of cultural experiences and the opportunity to Come Together Again.”

OCTOBER | 2021

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OCTOBER | 2021

OCTOBER | 2021

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12 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Committee pledges to continue to lobby for better rail to the NW

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erry City and Strabane District Council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee has sent out a strong message that Council will continue to proactively lobby for the development of rail infrastructure and better connectivity to the North West.

Members were reacting to an update report on the engagement to date with governments North and South on the strategic extension of the rail network here, with better, faster and more frequent connectivity to both Belfast and Dublin.

In a recent meeting the Committee received a presentation from lobby group Into the West, calling for a more joined up approach to decision making on the rail infrastructure issue.

Members were reassured however by Council’s Chief Executive, John Kelpie, that strategic engagement with the Department of Infrastructure and other key partners such as the Department of Transport (ROI) and Translink has been ongoing, particularly in the implementation of Council’s Strategic Growth Plan. The plan prioritises the rail network as a regionally significant driver for regeneration and environmental sustainability.

He told members that the completion of the NW Multi-Modal Transport Hub and an increase in rail services between Derry and Belfast, were significant milestones in the journey towards a more connected region, with links to all major

cities here. He also updated the committee on recent work by the North West Strategic Growth Partnership regarding the Strategic Rail Review, to secure specific engagement on the connectivity needs of the North West as part of the wider review process.

Welcoming the report, Chair of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee, Councillor Martin Reilly, said: “Council has been clear in its commitment to the process of transforming the local rail network working with our strategic partners North and South, and recognises the value of effective rail connectivity in terms of achieving sustainable growth for the region. These plans also align with Council’s Climate Action

Plan objectives in relation to decarbonisation.

“Today’s update offered reassurances that these conversations are being had on both a regional and national level, and that the North West is a priority in the national strategy for the development of the railway sector in Ireland up to 2040.”

The committee endorsed the recommendation for continued engagement with government and other stakeholders, and also a proposal by Alderman Ryan McCready to establish a multipartner Rail Working Group (RWG) within Council dedicated to driving forward the plans for an extended rail network servicing Derry and the NW.

Strabane’s Halloween Fireworks To Light Up The Sky at 7pm

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t wouldn’t be Halloween without a spectacular fireworks show, so make sure you are out in the garden at 7pm on Sunday, October 31 to see the Strabane sky light up with the crazy colours.

If you live locally, please stay home to enjoy the fireworks show to help reduce traffic and crowds. If you aren’t able to enjoy the show from home, the fireworks can be viewed from Meeting House Street but please remember to keep your distance from others not in your bubble and to park in town centre car parks to avoid blocking roads or pavements. Leave plenty of time for your journey so you can enjoy the full extravaganza!

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, said there is so much to look forward to over the

weekend. “It’s fantastic to have Halloween back in Strabane and it will be brilliant to see the town full of fancy dress and excitement.

From The Lost World to SPARK to the Alley activities and the fireworks finale, there will be loads to enjoy for the kids and for the adults as well!

“I would ask everyone visiting the town to be mindful of social distancing and COVID-19 guidelines. It’s really important that we all enjoy this exciting programme sensibly. So, get the costumes dusted down, get yourselves online and check out the details of everything happening in Strabane this weekend.”

You can find out more about the full programme on strabanehalloween.com

OCTOBER | 2021

NEWS | 13

Fountain Street Community Development Association A

massive word of thanks to HURT and in particular Dessie, John and Mark for coming along to Fountain Street Community Centre to deliver a very successful information session on

Drugs and Alcohol. A large crowd was in attendance at the event and we wish to extend our warmest thanks to each and every person who came along. Hopefully we all learned a wee bit as a result of attending.

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e v e l o p m e n t a l Programme for 2-3yr olds visited New Horizons as part of their ‘Stay & Play’, where they collected leaves, hay and

other natural materials to use as Art supplies and had lots of fun recycling an old uniform to make their fab Scarecrow. Well Done to all the boys and girls.

14 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Transnational project to help boost water based tourism

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Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI sponsored walk in Strabane

Participants just before taking off from the Fir Trees on the annual sponsored walk in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI. Top Right - Strabane Committee members Rachel Devenney, Christopher Kidd, Mickey Ferry, Margaret Robinson, Bernadette Duffy and Richard Buchanan, chair of Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI.

OCTOBER | 2021

DALY’S CARRICKMORE | 15

16 | NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Characters and creatures form ‘Hay-mazing’ Halloween Trail

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he Halloween spirit has taken hold as the Halloween Hay Sculpture Trail returns with characters that you may know, but in a way that you have never seen them before. The trail will run until Halloween night and involves schools, community groups, and businesses

across Strabane and surrounding villages transforming hay bales into colourful characters and creatures that will get you into the mood for the spooky season Whether you want to visit The Gruffalo in Bready, Little Miss Muffet in Glenmornan, the Hungry Caterpillar at Plumbridge, or The Lion, the Witch & The Wardrobe at Killeter, Castlederg – there are lots of amazing sights to visit across 12 different locations.

For more information and the full Halloween programme, visit derryhalloween.com.

OCTOBER | 2021

SARA’S KITCHEN | 17

Sparkling Wine Reception On Arrival

Potato and Leek Soup House bread

Stuffed Smoked Salmon Salad Chive cream cheese, cucumber & rocket balsamic

Sticky Korean BBQ Chicken Wings

Roast Turkey & Honey Roast Ham Carrot, sage and onion stuffing, roast gravy

10oz Sirloin Steak Dauphinoise potato, caramelized onion, portobello mushroom

Chicken Melter Champ Mash, smoked streaky Bacon, Jack Cheese, Brandy Peppercorn Sauce & crisp Tobacco Onions

Sesame seed & spring onion

Pan Fried Duck Breast

Thai Fish Cake

Fondant Potato, Honey glazed Carrot, Cauliflower, Black Cherry & Red Wine Jus

Lemon grass, green chili, coriander and lime mayo

Pan Fried Hake Asparagus, capers, parsley & lemon butter Vegetarian Option Available

Raspberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake, Christmas Pudding with Brandy Custard & Mini Pavlova served with Vanilla Ice Cream

PORT ROAD, LETTERKENNY, COUNTY DONEGAL

€29.50

PER PERSO

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18 | SCHOOL NEWS

OCTOBER | 2021

Strabane Academy News Science Competition: winner of the robotic prize goes to Verity Walker, year 8, who researched and presented to her class the life of the famous Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Well done Verity

The Geography Department spent the day in Belfast exploring the Titanic Quarter redevelopment. Both GCSE and AS level pupils thoroughly enjoyed seeing the places and projects that brought their Case Study material to life. And let’s not forget …. the Titanic ship was fine when she left Belfast!

Year 13 English/Maths and Science Mentors who took part in introductory mentor training. These mentors will provide help and support to year 12 pupils in their up and coming November examinations. Fantastic ambassadors of Strabane Academy!

During our Anti-Bullying Ambassador meeting, our Ambassadors were presented with their official Diana Project Anti-Bullying Pin Badges. We have some great ideas in the pipeline to promote inclusivity & wellbeing in our school! Such role models for

Fantastic effort from the U14 boys rugby team who made a good account of themselves against a strong Limavady Grammar School. Particularly strong performance from Johnathan Orr who topped the list for tackles made and yards gained! Onwards and upwards boys!

OCTOBER | 2021

MOTORING | 19

Icy conditions ahead

Nissan reveals more than one third of drivers do not feel prepared for winter driving this year

A

s the change in seasons quickly approaches, Nissan discovers drivers may not be as winter-ready as they think, in advance of the difficult driving conditions brought on by ice and snow and shorter days that follow the switch to wintertime that will take place on Sunday 31 October.

In fact, 37% of UK drivers do not feel prepared for winter driving this year and a third (32%) say they do not understand or use their cars’ additional safety features for winter driving – according to recent research commissioned by the automaker1.

As the clocks fall back, signalling shorter days and the inevitable deterioration in weather, drivers will find themselves spending more time behind the wheel in the dark, making the morning and evening commutes or driving back from visiting friends and family more challenging. For more than half of UK motorists these challenges are already causing concern as 61%1 admit to being nervous to drive in winter and 46%1 wish they had been taught to properly drive in adverse weather.

The good news is - to help drivers to cope with tough driving conditions, Nissan’s all-new Qashqai is equipped with the latest advanced safety technologies for added peace of mind and security.

“We know that this time of year often brings about unsettling feelings regarding driving and the data shows that 56%1 of UK drivers have cancelled or postponed a journey due to bad weather. We have equipped the all-new Qashqai with easy-to-use technology which allows drivers to focus on the road ahead and feel reassured knowing the vehicle will support them in challenging conditions,” said Marco Fioravanti, Vice President, Product Planning, Nissan Europe.

DRIVING IN THE DARK OR IN FOG During daylight hours, heavy snow or rain can make it difficult to see or be seen by other vehicles on the motorway. Less than half (49%)1 of UK drivers feel completely confident about how to adjust their headlights for road condition, such as turning on side lights for dusk, or full beams when dark.

To take the guess work out of this task and as a first for Nissan in Europe, the all-new Qashqai features adaptive matrix headlamps, which automatically change the shape of the beam according to

the road conditions. Fellow motorists will also be grateful for this technology, as it helps to prevent blinding oncoming road-users, for those drivers who occasionally forget to deactivate their high beams upon sight of others on the road.

DRIVING IN ICY OR SNOWY CONDITIONS It starts before entering the car. The majority of drivers are not taking the right precautions, especially in precarious weather situations. As evidence of this, more than half (52%)1 do not wait until the windscreen is fully demisted before starting their journey, potentially putting themselves and others at risk.

The new Qashqai’s windscreen has an integrated heating element, meaning any snow or ice can be easily cleared within seconds, giving a full, clear view ahead, minimising the inconvenience and delay before starting the journey. Furthermore, with additional spray from wet and salty road conditions, the windscreen can quickly accumulate dirty residue which can combine with bright headlights to obscure the view of the road. Nissan’s engineers have moved the spray nozzles to the windscreen wipers, ensuring the jets of water are applied precisely where they are needed to clean the windscreen.

Even when windscreens are fully cleared, 68%1 of UK drivers do

not feel completely confident about how to bring a skid to a stop on icy roads, and over half (73%)1 do not feel completely confident about what tyres to use when it’s snowing, or the correct stopping distance in wet weather.

In snowy or rainy weather, braking distances increase, so speed should be adjusted. Despite this, two thirds of drivers do not tend to check their brakes for driving in winter, and over a third (37%)1 do not tend to drive more slowly in the winter. This combined with a lack of awareness on how to adjust stopping distance in icy conditions is cause for concern, as 46%1 of UK drivers think the stopping distance is five times further than normal or less, as opposed to the recommended ten times normal stopping distance.

With the all-new Qashqai, Nissan introduces for the first time on its models in Europe its Intelligent Forward Collision Warning technology, which uses a predictive function that can see beyond the vehicle in front and apply automatic braking to avoid a collision.

For the most sure-footed drive in all-conditions, the new Qashqai is available with an advanced all-wheel drive system that constantly monitors the available traction, and will distribute power to the rear wheels in a split-second when it detects a loss of grip from the front wheels. Additionally, drivers can select the optimum driving mode according to the conditions or their preferences, varying between snow, off-road, sport, eco and standard.

DRIVING MORE SAFELY To allow drivers to keep their eyes on the road, the all-new Qashqai is equipped with a head-up display which allows the driver to follow navigation directions, as well as the correct speed limit by projecting key navigation, driver assistance and road information onto the windscreen within the driver’s line of vision.

Driving on winding highways can still put even the most confident motorists on edge. The driver support technology of the all-new Qashqai now includes ProPILOT with Navi-link, which can adapt the car’s speed based on a speed limit reduction, and adjust the speed as the vehicle approaches curves or exit ramps. Additionally, the new Qashqai will use a camera to monitor the car’s position in the lane and gently adjust the trajectory if it detects it is moving out of its lane.

Unlocking the secrets of what lies beneath our feet “This was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse” Defining the deposit On a day-to-day basis Emma’s job means that she could be overseeing exploration work as required by prospecting licences issued by Government or reviewing lab reports that identify where the mineral deposit is located.

“We’re always trying to improve our understanding of where the metals are located underground - the more we know about the deposit, the more precise our work will be when mining starts.

Emma Brosnan, Geology and Exploration Manager

Having worked on mining projects across the world Emma Brosnan understands just how unique Dalradian’s proposed underground mine at Curraghinalt is.

“I’ve been working for Dalradian for almost six years now. Before that I worked on exploration projects in North America, Europe and Africa, but to work on a project as exciting and on a deposit as large as this in Northern Ireland was an opportunity that I couldn’t refuse.”

“Geology jobs like this are hard to come by and to find one in an area as great as Tyrone is even rarer.”

As Dalradian’s Geology and Exploration Manager, few people understand the gold, silver and copper deposit at Curraghinalt better than Emma.

“This is known as defining the deposit; it’s like solving a massive underground puzzle which noone has done before. The best way to investigate what is happening underground is to use drilling.”

Drilling involves taking rock core samples which are just 5-10 cm wide from deep underground.

The authorisation process includes notification to the council which consults with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to ensure that the appropriate procedures are in place. The samples are sent for analysis to determine what elements the rock contains.

Emma continued: “Dalradian acquired exploration licences in 2009 and since then there has been a huge amount of time, effort and investment put into locating the best underground veins.

“We’ve completed a number of comprehensive drilling programmes to provide a very good picture of where the gold-bearing veins are located.

Our contractors used local suppliers and

workers from the local area as drill helpers, some of whom have gone on to train and qualify as drillers.

“State-of-the-art 3D modelling software allows us to join the dots together. This gives us an indication of where the best veins are, and it will provide the mining engineers with a valuable insight into how best to remove the mineral bearing rock.”

Opportunity What is particularly exciting about the deposit at Curraghinalt is its polymetallic nature, i.e., it’s not just gold, there are also significant quantities of silver and copper (metals which already play a critical role in renewable technologies that are helping society move towards a fossil free future).

For geologists like Emma, exploring a deposit of this nature is as close as it comes to a dream job. It’s also satisfying to know that unlocking the secrets of what lies beneath our feet can help build a more prosperous and sustainable society.

FAQ: What is a deposit?

A mineral deposit is an accumulation of any single mineral or combination of minerals of economic interest.

20 | PAT KIRK

OCTOBER | 2021

OCTOBER | 2021

PAT KIRK | 21

22 | SHOP LOCAL

OCTOBER | 2021

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ollowing a successful application to the voucher scheme, you will be provided with a £100 pre-paid card which can be used in any local business with debit/ credit card technology. d The card, which could take several weeks to arrive after a successfull n application, can be used in card terminals that includee a swipe facility as well as a pin facility. d Before using your Spend u Local pre-paid card, you will need to verify it by uter text, phone or on a computer before you can use it. The pre-paid card can be used with a retailer or in hospitality in the north that accepts cards as a method of payment. You can use it to purchase a range of items from a new piece of home décor at the local shop to groceries at the local supermarket and even to purchase home heating oil. In many cases it will be up to whether the retailers you wish to use it with has the card facilities available. However it cannot be spent online or for gambling or legal services like parking tickets.

You will not be able to use the card to donate to a charity, however that does not necessarily mean your receipt of the pre-paid card cannot benefit a charity. For example, you may want to engage with a charity and ask if there are any products that you could purchase for them using your pre-paid card or donate to the charity using your own funds and then use the card to replace those funds during your next weekly shopping trip.The Spend Local card can only be used to purchase goods and services from businesses located in Northern Ireland that accept card payments.

The cards are electronically coded to only recognise card machines registered with businesses with a Northern Ireland postcode, according to the Department for the Economy.

They cannot be used to withdraw cash or make online purchases. Your card must be used before 30 November. Any balance remaining on the card after this date will be returned to the Department for the Economy.

Choosing to shop local instead of the larger chain stores has many benefits. Studies have shown that as much as £10 spent with a local independent shop can mean up to an additional £50 going back into the local economy and community. Shopping local can help to create jobs in your area, also creating a healthy economy for the community. The warm personal touch of a local business that perhaps knows your personally cannot be underestimated, and is something online simply cannot compete with. So now more than ever is the time to get behind, celebrate and support local businesses.

Reconnecting Outdoor Event at the Alley Courtyard

OCTOBER | 2021

SHOP LOCAL | 23

24 | SHOP LOCAL

OCTOBER | 2021

McFadden’s Strabane celebrating 50 Years in Business “Fifty years is a long time, what an experience. It’s very seldom you would have the same owners for that long” says Seamus McFadden owner of McFadden’s nearby in Strabane.

J

ames McFadden opened McFadden’s in 1971 and it was in 1980 when James’s son, Seamus joined the family business.

The store has underwent some changes during that time and in 1999 the shop extended to around 1,600 square feet with two manned tills.

Seamus is one of the the longest-running convenience store in Strabane and although they have modernised with the times they still remain a specialist newsagent and pride themselves with their comprehensive range of specialist titles such as National Geographic, Bloomberg Election and Archaeology Ireland, with an extensive range of greetings cards and gift bags.

The store recently held a Customer Appreciation day in celebration of their 50th Anniversary. The day was organised by the team at S&W Wholesale – Seamus’s long term wholesale partner and exclusive owners of the new Nearby brand the store changed to this year. Seamus has been with S&W for quite some time and the relationship has blossomed to what it is today. Customers got to enjoy some cake, giveaways and goodie bags from the staff.

On the new brand Seamus said, “ I am enjoying the new Nearby branding and so are my customers. Straightaway I loved the name as we are always nearby when my customers need us.” I am looking forward to what the future brings for my store and the local community. Thank you for your fantastic support over the decades, here’s to many more.”

Top left– Damian Campbell, NI Business Development manager for S&W Wholesale with Seamus McFadden and Regular Customers Caroline Ferris, Charlene White and Jo Roulstone

OCTOBER | 2021

SHOP LOCAL | 25

26 | HOLY CROSS

OCTOBER | 2021

Holy Cross College News

Now that we are well-settled into our new school year, we would like to introduce our Head Boy and Head Girl, Deputy Head Boys and Head Girls and the Senior Prefect Team. Everyone in HCC would like to congratulate them on their selection and wish them good luck in their duties throughout their final year.

Well done to the Duke of Edinburgh and Gaisce Award students who were out on a two day expedition. Hillwalking, pitching tents, reading maps and using the compass. A fabulous bunch of year 14 students, all loving the outdoors.

Ciara Hassan, Year 11, performing on TG4 recently in the hope of representing Ireland at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2021.

Pat McCauley from NI Water delivered a free Waterbutt to the College as part of their initiative to educate children on the benefits of saving water. Pictured are Mr McCourt and Year 10 Geography students.

Big shout out to our Year 10 student Bláithín Boyle, a member of the Holy Cross Showjumping Team, in winning form in Eglinton. Congratulations Bláithín on an absolutely fantastic achievement.

Recipients of the NICE award, Jack Caldwell 8KK with Mrs M Strawbridge.

EVERGLADES | 27 OCTOBER | 2021

28 | TOTAL MUSIC

OCTOBER | 2021

The Phoenix Tavern Sheds Some Light with Live Music I

t has been been a brutal time for live music venues since March 2020. But many are now looking to the future, no more so than The Phoenix Tavern in Bundoran. Their popular Shed venue just outside the bar will be hosting some hugely popular bands over the autumn and winter period, bringing live music and bands back with a bang.

The Shed will officially open this weekend with a festival of blues. Kicking things off on Saturday, October 30 is the mighty Johnny Gallagher and the Boxty Band. Johnny is an explosive live entertainer, widely acknowledged as one of the finest guitar players touring the European circuit, working his way through festivals, clubs and venues all over the continent. His live shows with the powerful Boxty Band are a good over-driven Rock n Roll show, featuring his own original material with stunning personal versions of selected classics.

It’s sure to be a powerful opener for the popular Bundoran venue.

The blues magic continues on the Sunday night with the amazing Joanna Connor, who will be playing with Eamonn McCormack, with Johnny Gallagher guesting. New York born Connor moved to Chicago in 1984 at the age of 21 and was immediately drawn to the blues scene there. Soon she was sharing the stage with the likes of James Cotton, Junior Well, Buddy Guy and A.C. Reed.

With 14 albums under her belt, she has been a leading light in the blues guitar world since the 1980s.

The Shed venue plans to maintain that top standard of acts over the coming months, and talks with some of the biggest, most popular bands in Ireland are currently underway. It’s a win-win situation for an esteemed venue that, like every other place, had to navigate through the pandemic, and for the live bands who have seen their trade swept from beneath them since March 2020. This is something not exclusive to

Irish bands, and American bands are very keen to come over to Donegal and make their mark too. In fact the management are currently in the process of getting the Shed venue established on the European Blues circuit. With the two amazing acts booked for the Halloween weekend, things are boding well for the future.

The Phoenix Tavern is also planning for the future indoors as well, with great food on offer from Thursday to Sunday with its new chef in place. On Thursdays they hold ‘Beat The Clock’, where steaks start off at 5pm priced 14 Euros and increases by 50 cents every 15 minutes right up to 8pm when it reaches its 20 Euro maximum – a cheap steak at any time of the day! The menu will also have all the specials and the best in sea food.

For this and all the information on forthcoming live events in the Shed, check out the Phoenix Tavern’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ ThePhoenixTavernBundoran

Joanna Connor

Johnny Gallagher and the Boxty Band

Kris Crosses All The Talent Boxes The lockdown periods were hard on all musicians, with their regular platform for performing and income instantly taken away overnight. Many of them found other ways to entertain, mainly via live streaming. But for ten year old Kris Friel, who was just at the beginning of his musical journey, he ditched the posthome-schooling TV binging and PlayStation and decided to use this time to develop his musical craft.

Kris, who attends St Columba’s Primary School in Clady, started piano lessons at the age of six and is now at Grade five.

His enthusiasm to learn drew him to other instruments too, such as the guitar, ukulele and the banjo. At school he is also playing the cornet, so he is already honing his craft on five instruments – six if you include his incredible voice.

That voice and musicality caught at lot of attention at the beginning of the first lockdown, where his beautiful rendition of ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’, which he dedicated to all NHS and frontline workers, went viral and was viewed and shared thousands of times online. That video, along with many others, is to found on his Facebook page set up by his mother Veronica, Kris Friel Music.

As a mother Veronica is obviously extremely proud of her son’s progression, but also mindful to navigate him in a manner he can handle at such a young age. “He’s such a shy wee boy but everything he puts his passion into builds his confidence,” she explains. “I’m mindful of never putting him into something I don’t think he’s ready for, but he has such an enthusiasm for trying out something new.”

Kris has already enrolled and participated in songwriting courses with the Nerve Centre, working with older musicians aged up to 18. Since he was eight he has been doing speech and drama with the Much Ado Stage School based in Castlederg; as it happens, he is currently in the middle of filming with them at present. Obviously activities had stalled during the periods of lockdown but plans are being made for future live performances.

In February 2020, Kris signed to Armagh-based talent agency Rising Talent. Unfortunately with the first lockdown just around the corner in March of that year, it basically called a halt to the performing arts. While in a public performance sense musicians had to down tools from March 2020, outside of his homeschooling Kris used the lockdown period to hone his musical craft.

“He was disappointed when lockdown happened because so much was planned,” Veronica reflects. “He continued to do things himself. Some people just stopped but Kris just kept playing and learning on his pianos and guitars. He was able to go through his piano grades. He just kept practicing and practicing and learning from clips on YouTube. He would also do online guitar lessons with Strabane musician Lauren McGeough.”

The performance of ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ that went viral also caught the attention of the producers of the Today show on RTE. The family were contacted and a day later Kris was performing live on the show from his own living room in May 2020 to viewers up and down the country watching the popular afternoon show hosted by Dáithí Ó Sé and Maura Derrane.

Kris also appeared on RTEjr’s ‘Donncha’s Two Talented’ show, performing a duet with Veronica and also playing a song on his own. That June, he was the Virtual Busking Festival Winner at the Strabane Summer Jamm.

“Those were all amazing things to happen during lockdown” explains Veronica. “Thankfully as things began to open up more, Kris can now attend some workshops in Belfast, so things are finally progressing with the Rising Talent agency. Much Ado Stage School are making plans for live shows, and he was able to perform at the busking festival in Letterkenny during the summer, where he finished second.

“The performance side of things is good for the confidence,” Veronica added. “It would be great to see him actually performing on a stage, doing a part in a show. Even though he does a lot of stuff on his own, he would still be very shy. But he really does love taking on new things.”

The “new things” extends beyond the performing arts too, as Kris also plays for the Sion Swifts 2011 football team, and is now also taking part in athletics. As for the music, he is continuing through his piano grades, and will feature in a forthcoming video by the Much Ado Stage School. With years ahead of him to develop his musical and performing arts craft, Kris can look back at 2020/2021, when the world somewhat shutdown, and be proud of the work he enthusiastically put in during that period.

Spreading himself over music and drama at just ten years old, he is one example as to why the arts in this country can flourish well into the future with the right support and encouragement.

Check out Kris Friel Music on Facebook.

OCTOBER | 2021

PHOENIX TAVERN | 29

30 | |TYRONE CLAIMS SAM

OCTOBER | 2021

Strabane celebrates as Tyrone claims Sam for the fourth time

OCTOBER | 2021

OWEN ROE O’NEILL’S | 31

Owen Roe O’Neill’s GAC welcome Tyrone and ‘SAM’ to Pairc an Ghleanna

32 | STRABANE SIGERSONS

OCTOBER | 2021

Well done to the under 16 girls and their management on beating Sperrin Og. Crystal Crossan 4-4, Cara Grimley 1-0, Riley Neeson 0-2, Toni Devine 0-1, Ronagh O’Connor 0-2, Blaithin Boyle 0-1. Sigersons Abú.

Our U10 girls season was brought to a close when we had our own internal blitz. On offer for the first time was the newly inaugurated OP Mellon Memorial Cup, which will now be played for annually.

On hand to present the trophy, aptly to his granddaughter, was the kind sponsor of the cup and medals - Marshall Mellon. Go raibh maith agat Marshall.

This brought to a close a fantastic year for our girls on the grass!

OCTOBER | 2021

MILTOWN DINER | 33

34 | STRABANE ATHLETIC

OCTOBER | 2021

Herald a ld C Christmas hristm as C Cooking ooki Strabane Athletic

Strabane Athletic, along with the local sporting community and beyond, was very sad to hear of the passing of John “Tosser” McCrossan. His name has been synonymous with local soccer over several decades. John’s passion, dedication and enthusiasm for the game earned him respect far and wide and at the highest level. Rest in Peace.

Craig Memorial Cup Quarter Final - Newtowne FC 1 Strabane Athletic 3 Strabane Athletic got new Player Manager Rory Patterson’s tenure off to a successful start by overcoming Limavady’s Newtowne FC to reach the semi final of this season’s Craig Memorial Cup.

Enthusiastic young members of Strabane Athletic featuring our 2011 squad and members of the Girls’ Youth.

A recent Birthday Boy and Man of the Match, Tyrone Arnold in the Saturday Morning Blue Riband Cup. Over two years ago playing for Strabane Athletic Under 16, Tyrone broke his leg on this pitch and to see his remarkable recovery and performance is of great satisfaction to the players and coaches of Strabane Athletic.

Strabane Athletic Ladies team celebrated their title winning first season with an Awards Night at the Fir Trees Hotel.

Massive congratulations to all the girls and their coaches Paul and Gigs Connolly.

OCTOBER | 2021

KDL SCAFFOLDING | 35

36 | SION SWIFTS FTS

OCTOBER | 2021

Sion Swifts

Well done to our four U17 players Niamh, Naomi, Aoibhe and Clarah, as they along with their squad finished the last game of their Euro Qualifying group

Congratulations to U17 player Ellie Long for been selected for the Ireland squad to compete in the recent UEFA Women’s Under-17 European Championship Qualifiers

A

very sad and poignant day on October 7 with the passing of Tommy Canning Snr. A truly larger than life character, who first and foremost was a family man who totally devoted his later years to his beloved grandchildren. Tom found a great passion for our Club and followed all age groups around hoping for the right result for the Swifts. To his Wife Helena, Sons Thomas, Stephen and Kevin, Daughters Michelle and Karen Anne, his beloved Grandchildren and the wider family circle we offer our sincerest heartfelt condolences. We will miss you sorely our friend.

2009s (under 13) National League Sion Swifts: 4 Strabane Athletic: 0 Scoring opened by Jamie Stewart with a quality free kick. Two further goals scored by Eoghan Devlin and a fantastic penalty from Matthew Johnston. Superb football played today. Well done to all.

Well done to our own Cora Chambers who struck with both goals in the recent U19 friendly International between Wales and NI ahead of the Euro Qualifiers. The club would also like to congratulate fellow club senior player Aimee Neal, who was also chosen to join the Northern Ireland U19 side.

Our 2011’s made the trip to Magherafelt to play their first ever game in the NIBFA Cup against Magherafelt Sky Blues Colts. The team started of strong and played some lovely football, going in 2-0 up at half time. They started the second half with their confidence high, getting another 2 goals, the game ended 4-0. Goal scorers Jayden Buchanan (2), Lewis Quinn (1) and Ella Wasson (1).

The club would like to congratulate senior players Erin McLaughlin (Fildara) and Kerry Brown on their recent call up to the Republic of Ireland U19 squad.

Swifts 08s had a tough assignment with a D&D Cup game against Oxford, played at the Vale Centre, Greysteel. A 5-2 defeat was a scoreline that somewhat flattered our illustrious Derry neighbours. Nevertheless, the boys put up a great fight all across the pitch, from the starting 11 and all the subs. They all should be very proud of their grit and overall performances.

Thanks to all the parents for coming along to support the boys.

OCTOBER | 2021

FARMERS HOME | 37

38 | STRABANE GOLF CLUB

OCTOBER | 2021

Winners at Strabane Golf Club

Damian Carey was the winner of Club Captain Kevin Neeson’s club outing to Donegal Golf Club recently with an excellent 42pts in breezy conditions, 135 players made the trip to Murvagh. Conal Cooke was the runner up also with 42pts which was one under gross on the day giving him the Cat 1 first prize Patrick Kennedy was the gross winner.. Paul Bogle was a category winner, Ciaron Lafferty won his category as was Michael Forbes Jnr. Runner ups in the various categories were Stephen Donaghey, Tommy Forbes, Hugh Byrne and Sean Devine. The nines winners were Senan Roarty and Peter O’Neill.

The winner of recent past Captains and Presidents’ Day was Liam Patton with 43pts, the presentations were made by the club President Adrian McLaughlin.

Club Captains Catherine and Kevin Neeson with Club President Adrian McLaughlin making a presentation of £1950.00 to Adrian Loughrey from the Koram Centre.

Lady President Mary Casey makes a presentation to Ailbhe McDaid from the Foyle Hospice,

Presentation photos from the recent Brian Patton Memorial Day at the club. The competition was won with 44pts by Brian Carton from Faughan Valley, Chris Patton collected his prize in his absence, the runner up was Michael Mathers also with 44pts, third place with 43pt was Martin Roarty,the gross winner was Kevin Gallagher with 36 gross pts with Cathal Patton 2nd gross with 33 gross pts, 4th place was Ian Dunn with 42pts, John Doherty was in 5th Place with 41pts, Mark Gillespie collected the leading society guest prize for Declan Lynch, Norma Brogan was the ladies winner with 39pts with Jennifer Rouse 2nd with 36pts represented by Imelda Doherty. The presentations were made by club Captain Kevin Neeson and Mrs Kate Millar.

Aaron Edwards Hill was the winner of the Frylite senior scratch cup at Strabane with a winning score over the two rounds of +3. Hugh Foley was the runner up and 1st gross winner with Eoin O’Neill who won 1st Nett. The 2nd gross winner was Patrick Kennedy with Rory McColgan 2nd Nett. 3rd gross went to Charlie Kelly with Mark Cadden taking 3rd Nett. Kevin Gallagher was 4th Gross with Barry Patterson 4th Nett. Caolan Dunne was 5th Gross with Aidan Boyle 5th Nett. The defending champion Kealin Quigg took 6th Gross this time around with Martin Rouse claiming 6th Nett. Round 2 gross was won by Ryan Griffin with round 2 Nett going to Willie Patterson, round one gross went Keane Horner with competition convenor Damian McGranaghan winning first round Nett, the longest drive went to Peter Mc Kee. The presentations were made by club Captain Kevin Neeson and Yvonne Houston representing the main sponsor Frylite LTD. The captain made a presentation to the young players from Roganstown Golf Club who won the unique double last week of the All Ireland Senior cup and the Fred Daly Trophy.

The winner of Mrs Mary Casey’s Lady Presidents prize was Maura McBeth with 41pts BOT, the runner up was Helen Mc Gaughey also with 41pts with Mary Gallagher in third with 39pts. The gross prize winner was Lisa Patton. The category one winner was Mandy Coyne with Lady Captain Catherine Neeson taking category two. Category three went to Imelda Doherty with Category four going to Annette Patton.

AUGUST | 2021

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OCTOBER | 2021