Ulster Tatler May 2024

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THE CATEGORIES 01 FASHION BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR

Tell us the name of your top locally-owned boutique. This category covers everything from clothes stores to shoe shops and everything in between.

05 BEAUTY SALON OF THE YEAR

In this category you can vote for any salon in Ulster. Which beauty salon do you always leave feeling amazing?

03 SPA OF THE YEAR

For this category just let us know the name and profession of the person you are voting for.

06 COFFEE HOUSE OF THE YEAR

11 AESTHETIC CLINIC OF THE YEAR

Tell us the best coffee shop you have been to lately? Simply let us know which one you think deserves to be crowned coffee house of the year.

Tell us which clinic you think deserves to win the title of Aesthetic Clinic of the Year.

Which aesthetic clinic has worked wonders for you?

07 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

12 BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR

Tell us which spa you think deserves to win the title of Spa of the Year.

Which spa has worked wonders for you?

04 HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Which hotel stands out to you as top-class in everything from hospitality to food service? Here’s your chance to acknowledge their efforts.

All we need is the name and sport of the person you are voting for.

10 CELEBRITY OF THE YEAR

02 INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

In this category just let us know the name of your favourite Interior Designer.

09 SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR

Where have you had your best meal lately? Just let us know the name of your favourite restaurant.

08 HAIRDRESSING SALON OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win.

In this category just let us know the name of your favourite hairdressing salon.

THE COURTYARD, CARRICKFERGUS

VOTING NOW OPEN! VOTE ONLINE: ULSTERTATLER.COM

THESE AWARDS ARE NOT VOTED ON BY THE PUBLIC 16 BEST DRESSED ON THE NIGHT This accolade will be judged and awarded at the Ulster Tatler Awards ceremony. This category is not voted on by the public.

13 BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win.

17 SPECIAL MERIT AWARD Previous recipients include the Northern Ireland football team; Ulster rugby legends Rory Best and Tommy Bowe; and Tyrone GAA. This award is not voted on by the public.

business-person who has made a significant contribution to their sector over many years.

19 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD This award is given to someone who has made a significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland. Past winners include Ciaran Hinds, Gerry Armstrong, Michael Longley, Dame Mary Peters, Brian Friel, Sir James Galway, Gloria Hunniford, Phil Coulter and Terri Hooley.

14 ARTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

18 OUTSTANDING All we need is the name of the CONTRIBUTION AWARD person you are voting for along This award is given to a with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win. We are looking for someone who works THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS IS MIDNIGHT ON SUNDAY 23RD JUNE 2024. in any field within the arts or an artist who has made a significant TERMS AND CONDITIONS contribution to the arts scene in How to vote?

Northern Ireland.

It’s simple, just pick the category and the company/person you want to vote for at ulstertatler.com, following the

15 FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name of the business you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win.

guidelines below. Just remember that we are looking for local companies/people who have made a significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland and you can vote for as many categories as you want. A shortlist for each category will be published in the August edition of Ulster Tatler. An independent judging panel will then decide on the winner for each category. Please note that the decision of the judges is final and no correspondence will be entered into. If you are voting for someone in categories 1 to 11, all you need to do is let us know the name of the person or company you are voting for, along with their company contact details, where appropriate. For categories 12, 13, 14 and 15, in addition to their name, contact details and category, please forward a short statement (maximum 500 words) on why the entry should win. Categories 16-19 are not voted on by the public. Whoever you vote for must be from Northern Ireland or based here. All short-listed nominees must be prepared to take part in pre and post-show event publicity. In order for your vote to count, you must fill in all your contact details.

GET VOTING AND BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING A SELECTION OF GREAT PRIZES. EVENT PARTNERS

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D E S I G N I S N OT A T H I N G YO U D O. I T ’ S A WAY O F L I F E – ALAN FLETCHER

FAMOUS & FABULOUS The Culloden Estate & Spa is the perfect blend of majestic grandeur and modern luxury. And now, with a new glamorous make-over to bedrooms, lounges and shared spaces, this famous estate is even more fabulous. With 12 acres of beautifully secluded gardens and woodland, a wonderful spa, three restaurants, a speciality gin bar and much more, this sanctuary on the shores of Belfast Lough is a place where ordinary simply doesn’t exist.

Revive and restore yourself with a treatment at The Spa at Culloden. This exquisite haven of tranquillity offers luxurious treatment suites, relaxation rooms, a swimming pool, a variety of heat experiences and an extensive range of ESPA treatments and therapies. Everything required to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Celebrate the best of local ingredients and

culinary expertise as you dine for every occasion at the Culloden. From fine dining in Vespers, including a specially curated seven course menu, to indulging in daily homemade scones, sharing platters of locally sourced artisan cheese or glamorous afternoon tea in the Lough Bar. Or perhaps, drop into the Cultra Inn, located in the

beautiful grounds of the Culloden, where dogs are very welcome to snooze on their luxurious dog-beds while you enjoy dreamy treats from the heavenly bistro menus, including the recently launched breakfast menu. And, at the end of the day, you’ll want to retire to your elegant suite, soak in your palatial surroundings and sink into luxury.

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Relax in the recently refurbished Drawing Room.

May 2024

CONTENTS Features

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28

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COLUMNIST – KATHY CLUGSTON Lights, Camera, Action

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ROYALLY REWARDED

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JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Adam Keefe

60

FRONT COVER STORY Agne Racke

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SOCIETY WEDDINGS

87

PERFECT DESIGN GUIDE

114

BOOK EXTRACT Old Romantics by Maggie Armstrong

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ARTS DIARY

123

SPRING INTO SUMMER

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FOCUS ON: Golf

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FOCUS ON: Distilleries and Breweries

160

LOOKING BACK April 2011

UT Style

44 This month's cover features local business woman, Agne Racke who runs Aesthetic Clinic by Agne on University Street, Belfast. To read more about her career journey, check out pg 60-61.

Aesthetics by Agne 100 University Street, Belfast T: 07934 217 929 www.aestheticsbyagne.co.uk

Keep In Touch With Ulster Tatler At:

follow us on twitter @ulstertatlermag or like us on facebook

CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY THE AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATIONS

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STYLE WATCH

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

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BEAUTY PICKS

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION UK - £30.00 RoI - £60.00 Overseas - £60.00 ULSTER TATLER ISSN 0049 5107 39 Boucher Rd, Belfast BT12 6UT Full Colour Tel: (028) 9066 3311 www.ulstertatler.com e-mail: info@ulstertatler.com Ulster Tatler Groups is a name used by Ulster Journals Ltd. Company registered in Northern Ireland, registration number NI005037, registered office as listed.

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Black

Reverse

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EDITOR’S LETTER

The Black Stuff

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry

Where to find the perfect pint of Guinness? Apparently it is not, as you might expect, Dublin, Doolin or even Donegal. The Devonshire pub, just off Regent Street in London, is laying claim to this title. The pub is the brainchild of, among others, Oisin Rogers, who originally hails from these shores but has been working in the bar trade in London for many years. He set about perfecting the pint of Guinness and, I think it’s fair to say, is having something of a moment in London. The bar is the talk of the town and is, I guess, benefiting from the fact that the black stuff seems to be very much in vogue at the moment.

I was in London in mid-April and happened to be on Regent Street, so I thought I would call in to see if the Guinness really is as good as they say. I must admit to some cynicism beforehand.

I had been in northern Donegal just a week earlier and had an absolutely superb pint, with the wild Atlantic crashing just feet away. Surely it couldn’t get any better and this was just a lot of London hype? When it comes to a perfect pint, context is everything. Although I am by no means a Guinness aficionado I can, however, happily report that the Devonshire’s offering was pretty damn good. It did help, of course, that the Devonshire is a lovely pub with a great buzz but still, the Guinness was great. Cheers.

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DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry

COPY CONTROLLER: Gemma Johnston EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Katie Robinson PRODUCTION MANAGER: Richard Sherry PHOTOGRAPHER: Ian Campbell PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Tatler Type

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COLUMN May 2024

LIFE & TIMES EDITED BY KATHY CLUGSTON

Kathy Clugston is a freelance radio presenter. She chairs the long-running BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’ and presents the weekly entertainment show ‘The Ticket’ on BBC Radio Ulster.

Lights, Camera, Action!

This month, Kathy discusses the appeal of Northern Ireland for the film and TV industry as it becomes the ‘go-to’ location.

I was recently invited to Glenarm in Co. Antrim to visit the set of a small film called Aontas (Union), one of a wave of Irishlanguage films being produced and shot in Northern Ireland. The first feature in Irish to be made here was the 2021 murdermystery Doineann (Stormy Weather) starring Brid Brennan, and the much-talked-about Kneecap is due later this year. Aontas, which also stars Brid Brennan alongside Carrie Crowley from the Oscar-winning An Cailín Ciúin (The Quiet Girl), is a heist movie set in a rural Irish town where two warring sisters hold up the local Credit Union.

Film sets are exciting places to be; I am always struck by the enormous number of people that are needed to make even a low-budget film and how long it all takes.

Every shot requires painstaking preparation: cameras, lights, sound, a dab of powder here, a change of hat there and so on.

Lots of people stand around while all this happens, some of them murmuring into walkie-talkies or consulting clipboards, then suddenly “Action!” is called and the scene bursts into life. It’s great to watch a bunch of passionate, talented people at work.

Local successes like the Oscar-winning short An Irish Goodbye and the gritty, witty police drama Blue Lights are evidence that Northern Ireland is becoming a screen industry hub. It’s not just drama that’s making its mark: the TV quiz shows Mastermind and The Finish Line are made in Belfast and there’s a whole raft of companies producing video games and animation.

Northern Ireland Screen, a governmentbacked agency that develops, trains and funds the screen industries, plays a huge role in all these achievements. It tops up existing UK tax credits so that major companies like Universal - currently filming

the live-action remake of How To Train Your Dragon in Titanic Studios - put Northern Ireland on their list of possible locations.

And it gets its money’s worth - hundreds of millions of pounds are fed back into the economy every year and the pool of filmmaking talent grows. CEO Richard Williams points to several important staging posts in the 20 years since the agency came into being, such as the 2007 film Closing the Ring, directed by Richard Attenborough and starring Shirley McLaine, and the short film The Shore which won an Oscar in 2011, but by far the biggest boost came in 2010 with the fantasy epic Game Of Thrones, one of the most popular TV shows in the world, which ran for eight series and brought local landmarks like the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy and Castle Ward to international attention. Since then Northern Ireland has continued to tell its own stories in its own way with series like The Fall, Derry Girls and Bloodlands, as well as pose convincingly as other places including Transylvania in the film Dracula Untold, the Midlands in Line of Duty and 1970s London in Dalgliesh. A new British detective drama Ellis, starring Sharon D Clarke, will also be filming here this year.

Another in our ever popular line of police dramas is the gentler daytime show Hope Street, filmed in Donaghadee. Criminals getting their comeuppance in “Port Devine” goes down really well in the United States apparently, to the extent that local historian Robert Neill has started a tour of some of the Hope Street locations. He hopes that cruise ship passengers dislodged into Belfast will make their way to Donaghadee to pay homage. Work on series 4 has just started and any disruption to the life of the town is mitigated by the boost to local businesses, in particular the seafront restaurant Pier 36

which becomes Port Devine’s local pub, and venue for satisfying denouements, The Commodore. The restaurant has to close for a few days during filming but more than makes up for it in curious new customers.

Richard Williams believes that as the screen industry faces up to a global downturn, Northern Ireland will continue to buck the trend. The massive success of Blue Lights, co-created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, is testament to the fact that a hyper-local story can reveal the universal passions, ambitions and insecurities that drive us all.

Illustration by Megan Rafferty.

THIS MONTH’S OBSESSIONS: QUICKLY, WHILE THEY STILL HAVE HORSES – The latest collection of short stories from east Belfast-based writer Jan Carson. All of life is here: parenting, religion, coming-of-age, family secrets and, of course, horses.

CONNECTIONS – A daily online puzzle from the New York Times. From a grid of 16 words you have to make four connecting groups of four - a bit like the wall in Only Connect, although not quite as fiendish.

LUPIN – A French crime drama on Netflix about a suave gentleman thief who sets out to avenge the death of his father. Packed with plot twists, gasp-out-loud moments and some good jokes.

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Scott and Kim O’Sullivan.

Chloe McCrory, Tom Creaney, Zara McCrory and Sam McCrory.

India Sasha and Eddie Baird.

REACH CHARITY GALA BALL

Tim and Joanna Sayer, Allyson and Stephen Beattie, Denise and David Bingham.

Tim Rooney, Lily and Katie McCann.

India Sasha with Reach Charity Chairman Chris and Rita Creamer.

Reach, the UK and Ireland’s leading charity providing support for children with an upper limb difference, held their Charity Gala Ball on Saturday 30th March at Stormont Pavilion in Belfast.

The event was hosted by Tiktok sensation and the self-proclaimed ‘CEO of one-hand humour’, India Sasha. The event was made memorable with a three-course meal, live music and a raffle.

Tracey Atkinson, India Sasha, Darren Atkinson, Tiana Mya and Asha Dionne.

Corey Taylor, Caragh O’Neill, Carrie and Jonathan Patterson.

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Victoria Harson and Susan Hamilton.

L U X U R Y

I N T E R I O R

D E S I G N

F O R

E X C E P T I O N A L H O M E S

7 W e l l i n g t o n P l a c e , B e l f a s t B T 1 6 G B - h e l l o @ a t e l i e r - d e s i g n . c o . u k - 0 0 4 4 (0) 2 8 9 0 2 4 9 5 0 7

w w w . a t e l i e r - d e s i g n . c o . u k

Adam Ferris and Leah Dougan.

Tom Herron, Linda Russell, Sharon Edgar and Alan Edgar.

Tiffany Blackburn and T.J. Morris.

IVEAGH ANNUAL HUNT BALL On Saturday 6th April, Iveagh Fox Hounds held their annual Hunt Ball at Belmont Hotel in Banbridge.

A brilliant night was had by all in attendance, with a delicious meal followed by a raffle and auction.

Darren McClory, Gillian Dodds, David Rance and Natasha McCreery.

Ronan McCrory, Beth Patterson, Josh Cardwell, Skye Milliken and Warren Toner.

Sarah McClory, Belinda Furness, Huntsman George Barrett and Joint Master Brian McClory.

Adrian Martin, Julie Donaghy and Michael McGaffin.

Rebecca Clinghan, Yasmin Graham, Shannon Hiscutt, Sinead Boyd and Jenny Beggs.

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Katie Lackermeier, Abbie Welch, Bianca Sousa, Caitlin McVeigh and Karmen Sousa.

QUB KNIGHTS CHEERLEADERS FORMAL On Thursday 18th April, Queen’s University Knights Cheerleaders held their annual formal at the Europa Hotel. A wonderful time was had by all who attended, including a delicious meal and plenty of dancing.

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Eimir Curran and Eva Garcia.

Lauren McGeown and Roisin Costelloe.

Lydia Dobson, Amaan Soetan, Orla Gilheanny and Eimear Weir.

Charles Mason and Julia Rawson.

Declan McCaffrey, Sarah O’Neill, Sophie McNama and Leon Ball.

Aine Lavery-McKeown and Beth Noble.

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Ian Bolton and Emily Gribben.

Patricia Pyne and Chris Spurr from the Ulster History Circle with John Templeton’s greatgreat-great-granddaughter Rachel Bray.

Ulster History Circle commemorative plaque to John Templeton at the tropical ravine.

Ulster History Circle gather at Botanic Gardens’ tropical ravine.

Valerie and local historian Roger Dixon.

BOTANIC COMMEMORATES JOHN TEMPLETON Ulster History Circle (UHC) recently held a blue plaque unveiling in honour of Belfast’s own John Templeton, 18th century Belfast botanist. He discovered many new species in the north east of Ireland such as the Irish Rose which flourishes today in the Botanic Gardens. His diaries and records are among the treasures of the Ulster Museum. The unveiling took place in the Botanic Gardens on 17th April with special attendees: Lord Mayor Cllr Ryan Murphy; John Templeton’s great-great-great-grand daughter Rachel Bray; UHC Chairman Chris Spurr; radio broadcaster Seamus McKee and photographer Patricia Pyne.

Belfast Lord Mayor Cllr Ryan Murphy unveils the blue plaque with Rachel Bray.

Left-right UHC Chairman Chris Spurr; May Graham who proposed the plaque; John Gray; Lord Mayor Cllr Ryan Murphy; Jenny McBriar and Seamus McKee.

The Friends of Botanic Gardens members including May Graham who proposed the commemorative plaque to botanist John Templeton.

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Jim and Diana Fitzsimons with Karen Latimer.

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Ultan Irwin, Ronan Kelly and Joann Kechit.

Alice Berry and Peter McAdam.

Aoibheann McCann, Sean Stephens, Katie Torrens, Caitlin McWilliams and Caoimhe O’Hare.

Ruth Clements, Jack Purdy, Josh Grey and Aoife Bell.

Orla McEvoy and Laura McGuinness.

Professor Mohammed Sonebi, Siobhan Cox, Su Taylor, Pal Schmitt and Julia Farkas.

Cain McShane, Claragh Macanulty, Gio Fallone and Ciara Walker.

QUB ENGINEERING SOCIETY FORMAL On Thursday 14th March, the Engineering Society, Queen’s University Belfast held their annual formal at the Clayton Hotel.

Guests enjoyed a glamourous evening including dinner followed by drinks and dancing.

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John Lunn addressing guests.

Suzanne Lunn, John Mulgrew and Rajesh Rana.

ARCADE FIRE Lunn’s the Jewellers recently hosted a special evening in Queen’s Arcade to showcase everything this unique arcade has to offer.

Steeped in history, the arcade was built in 1880 as a fashionable promenade and business thoroughfare. It is Belfast’s only Victorian shopping arcade and has recently undergone a £2.2m refurbishment to restore and elevate the Victorian charm with contemporary sophistication – forging a unique shopping experience fit for the modern era.

Emma Spence from Tudor with John Lunn.

Robin, Anne and Stephen Stewart from Robinson’s shoes.

Queen’s arcade florist Victoria Gault and jeweller Laura Walsh.

Mary-Jo McCanny (Visit Belfast), Michelle Greeves and Sonia Armstrong (Belfast City Airport).

Laurence Burrell (Visit Belfast) and Richard Thomas from Robinson’s shoes.

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Danny Millar and Andy Rea.

Debbie McCamphill (Historical Royal Palaces) and Gerry Lemon (Visit Belfast).

Continued on page 30

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Pianist, Jo Colgan.

Alan Greer (Historical Royal Palaces) and Conor Patton (Breitling).

Roisin and Chris Sherry.

Optician Jonathan Keys and Anne Stewart from Robinson’s shoes.

Continued from page 28

Michelle Greeves, Andrew Burns and Vicky Collins.

Lyn Cooke, Margaret Williamson, Vivian Chestnutt and Catherine McBride.

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Daniel Mellor, Chloe Denny and Josh Gillies.

Ann Tumelty, Stephen and Jill Dowds and Stephanie McCarroll.

Lesley-Anne Keery and Gillian Kelly.

Sara Orme, Gerard Martin and Nicola Tate.

Jayne Liddell, Robert McIlroy, Laura Cunningham and Aidan McIvor.

Jennifer and Michael Surginor.

HENDERSON RETAIL AWARDS On Saturday 20th April, the lovely Culloden Hotel was the setting for the Henderson Retail Ltd Awards of Excellence.

Mark McCammond, Retail Director welcomed guests and introduced the presenters: George Rankin, Head of Retail Operations; Jan Young, Post Office Commercial Manager; and Sharon Kane, Area Manager. The event was a great opportunity to invite Stephanie McCutcheon from Investors In People (IIP) to present Henderson Retail with their IIP Platinum-level Accreditation and congratulate the guests on their success. It was a lively and well-supported evening that recognised the outstanding achievements and commitment of individuals and teams across Henderson Retail and the wider Henderson Group. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners.

Michelle Donnelly, John Clarke, Michael Surginor and Paula Colhoun.

Joseph Daly, Danny Hutchinson, Ann McKillop and Jonathan Barr.

Lindsay Wilson and Daniel Pearson.

Paula Savage and Ieva Krasnauskaite.

Justine McGreevey, Sharon Kane, Charlene McGonagle and Kathy Simpson.

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William, Connie and Sara Logan.

Ashleigh Campbell, Nigel, Courtney and Rae Craig with kids Luca, Jude and Phea.

Aine and Anto Dillon with daughters Saorlaith and Rionagh.

FAMILY RACE DAY AT DOWN ROYAL Guests attended Down Royal’s brand-new Fibrus Family Race Day this month. Families enjoyed a day of exciting National Hunt racing and kids’ entertainment including bouncy castles, face painters, balloon modellers and a petting farm. In attendance were the Gourmet Boys, Mark Irvine and Brian Haslett.

Cara, Dakota, Rosie and mum Lynn Devlin, Erin and Glenda Pearson.

Mark Groves and Jonny Clements with kids Georgia, January, Rose, Roxy and Bonnie.

Catherine Teggart and Peter Marks.

Colleen, Isabella, Anna-Rose and John McAreavey.

Carole O’Neill and daughter Annabelle.

Mark Irvine, Lilian Parkes, Eileen Lee and Brian Haslett.

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Student Raceday MAY DAY RACE MEETING MONDAY 6TH MAY 2024 BUY YOUR TICKETS AT: downroyal.com

Ann Wright, Charlotte Campbell, Lorraine Haugh, Gillian Hanna, Lorna Shaw, Iris Gordon and Edith Edgar.

QUOILE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE The Quoile Area Women’s Institute Spring Meeting took place recently at YFC Hall Seaforde. The Quoile Area members are from Annalong, Crossgar, Downpatrick, Killinchy, Slievenaman, Spa and Seaforde. Competition awards were presented, Institute reports delivered, and this year’s special guest was Dame Mary Peters, who was interviewed by Margaret Broome, past Federation Chairman.

Ann Patterson and Oriel Nesbitt.

NI Federation Chairman Margaret Broome, Lady Mary Peters and WI Quoile area executive Judith Wainwright.

WINI Federation Chairman Margaret Broome with special guest Lady Mary Peters.

Maud Bailie and Patricia Gilchrist from Downpatrick WI; Beth Spires and Lillian Crompton from Spa WI.

Pam Nugent, Anne Davey, Lorna Stevenson and Patricia Mulholland.

WI Quoli ladies choir members Joy Silcock, Kathleen Gill, Wendy Poxon, Judith Harper and Myra Smyth.

36

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Lily Devenney, Meg McDonagh, Lucy McGinley, Miranda Fordham, Erin Curran, Kiera Whaley, Aleasha Flood and Evie Banyard.

QUB FILM SOCIETY FORMAL The students of QUB Film Society recently held their formal at The Europa Hotel. The night included a bubbly reception, a three-course meal and an after-dinner DJ. Danny Lagan, Beth Stewart, Anna Burnett and Niall Mooney.

Yasmin Janahi, Sam Holt, Kylie McComb and Aaron Gourley.

Rebecca Mae Gates, Ben Friel and Suzanne Mooney.

Michael McChrystal and Kiera Whaley.

Kyle James Smith and Laura Calderwood.

Genevieve Hamilton, Bethany Wasson, Rory McGirr, Gabriel McErlean, Lara Bagley and Caoimhe McCloskey.

38

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Titanic Hotel Sets Sail with New Menu

I

t was all aboard to set sail as Titanic Hotel Belfast General Manager Adrian McNally, along with hotel Head Chef Nigel Mannion, welcomed a host of guests, including Paul Clarke, MBE, Ibe Sesay, and Cathy Martin, for a journey of mouth-watering culinary delights.

Foodies and families are in for a treat with the brand new menu in the Wolff Grill at the Titanic Hotel Belfast.

Diners can drop anchor and enjoy a contemporary selection of nibbles, including smoked almonds, padron peppers, and breads, while starters range from soup and chowder to scallops and salad. For fish lovers, there’s a choice of salmon, cod, sea bass and prawn dishes.

Sumptious burgers from the grill served with Pont-Neuf fries, and the ultimate in sharing steaks with both Chateaubriand and Cote de Boeuf are sure to delight.

Feast on a selection of innovative vegan and vegetarian options, while snazzy sides are the perfect accompaniment to any dish. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Bailey’s cheesecake, chocolate, or chocolate and salted caramel tart!

Whether you’ve got an hour to spare at lunchtime, taking the children out for an early evening tea, nipping in for a bite before taking in Belfast’s nightlife, or simply want to relax over three exuberant courses with the perfect wine from the 17-page wine menu, head over to: www.titanichotelbelfast.com.

Tony Axon and Nuala Meenehan.

Yvonne McIlree; Colleen and Ibe Sesay; Adrian McNally.

Paul Clark MBE, Carol Jordan, Adrian McNally and Sarah Clarke.

Kirstie McMurray, Katie McCausland and Matthew Poole.

Ethan Mawhinney, Cathy Martin and Adrian McNally.

Adrian McNally, General Manager, Titanic Hotel Belfast; Yvonne McIlree, Director of Sales and Marketing; Ethan Mawhinney, Restaurant Manager; Matthew Poole, Deputy General Manager and Nigel Mannion, Titanic Hotel Belfast Head Chef.

Yvonne McIlree, Michael Bedwell, Clodagh Rice and Adrian McNally.

40

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90 YEARS IN THE MAKING

HONOURS

Royally Rewarded This month Ulster Tatler features a selection of photographs from those members of the community recognised in the King’s Honours.

CATHERINE HUMPHREY MBE

REV DEREK JOHNSTON MBE

Catherine Humphrey, Principal of Groggan Primary School in Randalstown was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List for Services to Education in Northern Ireland. Catherine received her MBE award on 31st January at Buckingham Palace from Princess Anne. Catherine has worked in the field of education for 30 years and she knows the positive impact a teacher can have on a child’s life. Speaking of her role as Principal, she said: “I am passionate about education, teaching and learning, and developing the whole child. Groggan Primary School is like my second family, we have the best pupils, supportive parents, and hardworking staff who go over and beyond each day for the children.”

Rev Derek Johnston was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List for services to Chaplaincy and Well-Being during Covid-19. Derek is the Lead Chaplain at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, working with almost 40 Chaplains across the Trust and he is keen that this honour reflects the work of his colleagues in the health service. Speaking of the honour, he said: “I see it as an acknowledgement of the role and value of healthcare Chaplaincy. This recognition isn’t just for me but for the wider Chaplaincy team. I am privileged to lead the team, but it wouldn’t function with just me.”

Derek recently received his award from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle.

LEONA O’NEILL MBE Leona O’Neill, a Solicitor Consultant with the HSC Legal Services (DLS) Team, received her MBE from the Princess Royal at an Investiture at Windsor Castle on Wednesday 20th March 2024.

Leona is the founder of the Boom Foundation, which is the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s charity of the year. The Boom Foundation is a Northern Ireland based charity that raises funds to support anyone diagnosed with Sarcoma and their families. Commenting on Leona’s award, the President of the Society, Darren Toombs, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Leona has been recognised for her work with the Boom Foundation and for her tireless efforts to raise awareness of Sarcoma cancer at home and further afield.”

42

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Brian Haslett, Jean Christophe Novelli, Adam Jones and Mark Irvine.

Jean Christophe Novelli and Paula Stuart.

Ellis Morrison, Laura Laurie, Adele Lemon and Madison Connolly.

Jean Christophe Novelli.

Lindsay Carson, Heike Wilkinson, Niamh Adams and Ilna Woelky.

Paula Stuart, Siobhan Kielt, Janice Holt and Sonya Cassidy.

Brian Haslett, Alia Geagea, Phoebe Skelton and Mark Irvine.

Jo Ferguson, Jean Christophe Novelli and Emma Beattie.

6TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Paula Stuart, Inga Donaldson, Jean Christophe Novelli and Melita Williams.

Cathy Martin and Hama O’Reilly.

44

AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast and The Terrace at Novelli’s held a special event in celebration of the hotel’s 6th birthday. It was a Mediterranean inspired evening, with culinary delights from The Terrace’s new menu being introduced to guests. Celebrity Chef Jean-Christophe Novelli was back at his signature restaurant, chatting to guests about his passion for food and recent appearances on Cooking with the Stars and MasterChef Australia.

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Gracehill teachers and Principal Robert McCombe.

Francis Starrett, Laura Taggart, Rebecca Marshall and Daryl Marshall.

Lesley Doran and Karen Hunter.

Mark and Susan McCune; Lynne and Chris Gamble.

SPRING GALA BALL FUNDRAISER Gracehill Primary PTA recently held a fundraising gala ball in the Tullyglass Hotel. Guests and staff arrived to a bubbly reception to raise much-needed funds for the currently unused football pitch and playing area. In attendance was former football manager and current radio broadcaster, Liam Beckett. The evening was a huge success with Gracehill raising a grand total of £12,109.

Megan Willighan, Laura Hutchinson and Judith McCann.

Gracehill Principal Robert McCombe, Wendy Fleck and guest speaker Liam Beckett.

Ellen Walker, Ryan Jess and Hannah Jess.

46

Linda and Kevin Maguire.

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

The search is on for Rising Star Young Chef of the Year

F

amilies First NI Ltd. is on the lookout for the Rising Star Young Chef of the Year 2024.

Whether you’re a whiz at whipping up healthy meals for a family of four, mastering budget-friendly bites for students, or simply have a family favourite signature dish that wows every time - if you are between 10 and 16 years old by July 31, 2024, this is your chance to shine.

The competition promises to be a platform for young chefs to showcase their talent and creativity, fostering a spirit of innovation and culinary excellence.

One of Northern Ireland’s much-loved chefs, Stephen Jeffers, will serve as chief judge. With over 20 years experience in the culinary world and as principal tutor at Belfast Cookery School, Chef Jeffers brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the judging panel.

The competition was officially launched to a host of guests and media at Belfast Cookery School, Forestside.

Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Simply send a short video of you cooking your signature dish, along with your name and a contact number for your parents or guardians, to: youngchefni@gmail.com.

Robin Elliott, presenter; chief judge, Chef Stephen Jeffers; and Families First Ltd Managing Director and competition founder, Ann King.

Q Radio’s Yazz Zemmoura and Esina Juknaite.

Nicola Bothwell and Lesley Maltman.

Kate Law, Sonia Butterworth and Farrah Kelleghan.

Jain Abhishek and Sanjay Ghosh.

Eoighan and Roisin Austin.

48

Stephen Jeffers, Nuala Meenahan and Robin Elliott.

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May 2024

INTERVIEW

50

Jane Hardy is a feature writer who has interviewed a few of the big names from Arlene Foster to Mrs Thatcher.

BY JANE HARDY

Ice, Ice Baby Belfast Giants coach Adam Keefe discusses the appeal of ice hockey, family, swearing and how he got into gardening, with Jane Hardy.

On learning there will be a photographer in attendance, Adam Keefe, coach of the Belfast Giants ice hockey team, says that he might leave the lipstick at home. Then it’s down to the serious stuff as the weekend after we talk in the Titanic Hotel café the Giants are bidding for a title in their sport’s premier league.

After a more taxing season than 2023, when the team gained all the silverware, a win would be good. “We’re playing Cardiff in the semis, who finished ahead of us in second place while we were third in the IEHL, so it’s a needle match. It should be a good one.” Keefe (39) was pleased with the Giants’ performance against Coventry, which they won to qualify for the final four.

“Everybody was, to use a phrase I like, pulling the rope. Everybody did their job to punch the ticket to the semi final in Nottingham, which isn’t easy.” Asked what sort of coach he is, Adam Keefe admits to being tough. “I am pretty demanding, yes. You have to be, especially in this league.” He is also sweary, but says that he’s trying to temper the tendency. “The words pop up, but it’s the passion coming out.”

Keefe was a star player until six seasons ago, although Covid interfered for a bit. “I was a forward, a physical player. In ice hockey, there’s guys who fight physical and finish hits. Your adrenaline goes at that point, you’re in the moment. That was me.”

He’s not wrong, if you watch an altercation on ice with a Fife Flyers man a while ago.

These fights in the match were occasionally choreographed, or at least agreed, back in the day, not so much now. “They’re very real. It’s a bit of a deterrent, something someone did or a momentum swing, to spark energy in your team.”

We touch on Paul Newman’s movie, Slapshot,

51

about Keefe’s sport and he describes it as comedic and old school, noting the sport used to be more “violent and physical, now it’s fast and skilful, it has to evolve”. He says he misses some of the old days.

Asked whether the transition from player to coach was difficult, Keefe says now: “It wasn’t easy, that’s for sure, but I had an inkling before.

At least I had a good handful of teammates I really trusted who helped me along.”

Keefe says he is not bothered about turning forty. “It’s just another day, no different from being 39.” He started out very young. “My parents put me on the ice when I was four years old. My brother Sheldon, who’s four years older, also plays - he’s the golden child and plays for the NHL, the best league in the world.” Big footsteps to follow then, “but good ones”. At five or six, after getting used to the ice, you start playing, then do youth hockey until sixteen. “I left home at sixteen and stayed with a family who take you in. Looking back, I may have made sacrifices, but at the time it’s just what you do, the pathway, I didn’t know any different.”

Keefe comes from outside Toronto and moved to Sidbury, Ontario, five or six hours’ drive away.

When younger, Adam Keefe had imagined himself as maybe a firefighter or a fisherman as the Keefes fished on Prince Edward Island. “I thought that would be cool, but as you get older, you realize you can make a living from sport.” It may be unsurprising as he comes from a sports background, with father Brian a basketball player. “We have him to thank for that, and are thankful they gave us the opportunity. It’s like doing football or rugby here,” Keefe adds.

The Belfast offer came at the right time, as Keefe was becoming slightly fed up with moving

INTERVIEW

I’m pretty demanding, yes. You have to be, especially in this league.

Adam pictured during his playing career with Belfast Giants.

state, a lot like a speeding puck on the ice. “I’d gone from places like Texas to Manitoba.” He accepted, flew over and as he puts it “fell in love with Northern Ireland”. He didn’t know much about the place initially though. “We’re taught North America is the finest place on earth, it’s patrioritism, and I didn’t know Ireland was divided into two to be honest. But they do a good job of educating you when you arrive and a large part of the club is the cross-community ethos. We do work in the community, with charities and so on for sick children and those who need it.” The sense of being at home could be because there is possibly an ancestral Irish connection with the O’Keefes that Adam has attempted to trace with his Northern Irish wife Colleen, whom he met as she worked as the Giants’ physio.

They travelled to Cork where his roots were and although they didn’t locate a family tree, something weird happened on the trip. “We were looking at our sat nav, pulled over by the side of the road and stopped outside O’Keefes’ pub. We hadn’t meant to, it just happened and although nobody there was family, it was strange. There was an O’Keefe’s candy store too.”

As Keefe says, with a smile, it means he is stuck here.

When Keefe moved to Belfast, he’d hang out in pubs like Fibber Magee but not so much now. A family man, he has two daughters, Cora (3) and Tara (turning one). “We’ll try and get them into sport, it keeps kids out of trouble and it’s healthy, it is very social too. My wife is into athletics, I’ll be pushing them in team sport direction. They’ll get all of the above.”

Although a great sport, ice hockey can be dangerous and

52

there is a debate after a recent tragedy about whether neck braces should be worn. Keefe comments: “I didn’t know Adam Johnson, the player who died, but it was a tragic accident.

Some people in hockey decided neck braces would be good, I don’t really have a standpoint but neck guards couldn’t hurt.

It’s a difficult thing to put into words.”

The Keefes live in Glengormley and one thing fans may not know is that the coach is a bit of a gardener in his spare time.

“Covid was good for that, we started to grow potatoes, salads, easy things.”

The Keefes are off to Prince Edward Island for their summer holidays, to introduce their girls to their great-grandmother.

But Adam Keefe likes being in Belfast. “It’s a blue collar place where the people are kind. A nice size of city, small enough to get about easily. It’s family friendly like the Belfast Giants events we put on with a great light show, terrific music and the hockey.” He proudly recites the statistic about audience figures having doubled in his time here.

You sense Keefe lives his role but he reveals that he does find time to relax. “A fan might be surprised that I am quite chilled out. We have a sauna we sit in to think, and the cold tub.” On evenings out, the Keefes enjoy a trip to Bert’s Jazz Bar at the Merchant Hotel.

Television doesn’t feature in Keefe’s time off but he does find time to read the odd book. Currently he is absorbed in the title Winning. A Christmas present from his mother-in-law, written by Michael Jordan’s life coach. “That’s what it’s about.”

STYLE

May 2024

EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED AT ONE OF NI’S HOTTEST EVENTS.

Keeping it in the family, Fay and Teresita Kelly were elegantly dressed at the launch of McConnell’s Distillery at Crumlin Road Gaol.

53

May 2024

GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Show Some Love

In a first for Belfast, a partnership with a focus on creativity and sustainability has opened in the heart of the city, powered by Becky Bellamy and Connor Kerr from Another World Belfast CIC. Show Some Love Green House is a collaborative artist studio, sustainable fashion hub, creative shared space, inclusive community workshops and events venue. Situated in a brandnew city centre space, this creative hub is for those not only seeking a space to make and learn but creates room to forge meaningful connections. Tap into the wealth of knowledge held by skilled volunteers from all ages and walks of life through textile workshops Show Some Love Greenhouse Founders or simply to start creating Conor Kerr and Becky Bellamy. something new from preloved resources!

There are lots of ways to become involved. If you’re interested in attending a workshop, other events, signing up to become a member, or need a desk and shared space to create or manage your creative endeavours, then Becky and Connor would love to hear from you.

Located at 171–175 Victoria Street, just minutes from St. George’s Market and Victoria Square, it is part-funded by the Belfast 2024 cultural festival from Belfast City Council.

Victoria Square In-Flight Spring Show models Lea Danh, Nuala Meenehan, Edward Kargbo and Lucy Spratt.

Flight of Fashion at Victoria Square A feast of fashion touched down at Victoria Square last month. Fashion fans gathered for the two sell-out spring runway shows packed with the hottest spring/summer trends in store now at Victoria Square.

Behind the scenes at Style Sunday with Nuala Meenehan, Tiffany Rea, Maria McGuigan and Bellamianta makeup.

QUB Fashion Show

Alick Galvez, Nigel Matthew, Marin O’Connell, and Henry Chandler wearing bow ties from Crawford and Irwin.

Adeola Akintonde in AH Designs.

Congratulations to Queen’s University Fashion Society for hosting the sell-out QUB Fashion Show at Mandela Hall last month!

Promoting fashion on campus in the most inclusive, sustainable and enjoyable way possible. Designer collections included AH Designs, Crawford and Irwin with support from QUB students, Another World Belfast, and QUB Electronic Music Society.

54

Continued on page 56.

May 2024

Continued from page 54.

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

Chilly?

Try a denim shirt?

. . . s k o o l im n e d Other

Marks & Spencer.

River Is

land.

To say the least, the weather hasn’t been great. In fact, fashion editors across the land have christened a whole new season: springter, where temperatures have either been seasonally mild or plummet to the depths of winter. Thankfully, our love for all things denim, this season (and last season and next season for that matter) will keep us bang on trend and suitably able to cope with springter temperatures. That’s because denim is a fabric that has enough weight for a chilly day but won’t overwhelm you when the temperatures warm up, and a denim shirt is one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe. Kitten heels and chandelier earrings look killer with a denim shirt. Look to Hush and H&M for starters.

Hush.

H&M.

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Dune London.

Barbour.

Whistles.

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Edward Harris Agencies +353 86 811 7901 edwardgharris@gmail.com

Winner Womenswear Brand of the Year

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franklyman.com

PARL Studio owner Lidia Magliocco and Mark O’Kane.

PARL Studio founder Lidia Magliocco.

LUXURY RESALE Parl Studio, the online home for luxury resale, was born out of the need for a curated offering of pre-loved, authenticated luxury fashion at affordable pricing. As a lover of fashion, founder Lidia Magliocco was frustrated with the high mark-up prices attached to desirable designer pieces, some of which were only worn a handful of times. At Parl Studio, they offer two services: clients can buy from them or sell through and to them.

By shopping through www.parlstudio.com, you are helping address fashion’s waste problems by promoting circular fashion and sustainable shopping. A Parl Studio shopper is someone who invests in themselves and quality pieces that will transcend fashion trends and seasons. Shop the drop, every Friday at 11am on their instagram @parlstudio.

Majella Magliocco and Mark O’Kane.

Michelle Rodgers, Tricia Russell and Bernie Sands.

Natasha Daryaie and Tricia Russell.

58

Ruth Newell and Laura King.

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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW An increasing number of people from this part of the world are travelling abroad to undertake lower-cost dental treatments which they could not otherwise afford at home.

We have all, however, heard the warnings around the risks involved in availing of such services far from home. If you are thinking about going abroad for dental work, it is essential that you consider a range of factors other than just cost e.g. a clinic’s reputation with other overseas patients, the qualifications of the practitioners, your rights and protections in the country of treatment should something go wrong. Before committing to treatment, you must receive a fully costed treatment plan including information on any risks associated with the treatment and details of follow-up care.

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Interview

AGNE

Interview

UP CLOSE WITH...

Ulster Tatler speaks to Agne Racke our cover star and owner of Aesthetic Clinic by Agne, Belfast.

How did you get to where you are now?

“Through discipline, consistency and my thirst for knowledge and growth. I began my journey 12 years ago, when I decided to embark on my first beauty course in Scotland. Later I moved to Northern Ireland, where over the past 10 years I have not stopped learning. I went to college in Belfast to complete all my beauty qualifications, and travelled the world to undertake different courses and conferences relating to my work and passion. I became a beauty lecturer, before realising I needed something more. I needed to challenge myself, and at this point, three years ago, I decided to complete my aesthetic qualifications. What a journey it has been! I have trained with some of the foremost surgeons in the world, travelled to places such as Monaco and Dubai. All to harness the best possible knowledge I can to bring to my clients, at my clinic, Aesthetic Clinic by Agne, in Belfast.”

Was being in the beauty industry something you always wanted to do?

“The aesthetic industry was always something that has fascinated me and I had always dreamed of becoming one of the top specialists in the field. I did not hesitate the moment I had an opportunity. I have to admit it was a scary time, not knowing how it would all go, but I summoned all my courage and took the leap. I’d even say that overcoming my own fear of needles is a great metaphor for the journey I’ve taken!”

What led you to setting up your own business?

“I was made for business. Since I was a small child I knew I would be a businesswoman. Funny fact – when I was six years old, I told my mum she was going to work for me at my company. The moment I had an opportunity to do it, I did it. Every year I have been growing more and more and the success coming with it makes me happy; all the hard work I put in is paying off.”

What do you love most about your job?

“The best part of my job is that I have the opportunity to help people. I have such a big heart and kindness is second nature to me, so to be able to give confidence and happiness to people is the best gift. A big motto for me: when you do things for the right reason, you will always be rewarded!”

What has been the highlight of your career to date?

“The highlight of my career is this very moment. To bring joy to people’s faces every day, to own a successful business, and be qualified to the highest standards. I’m currently working on my level seven aesthetic medicine qualification, so I always have the opportunity to learn! Most importantly to have such an amazing clients. I’m very blessed to be where I am now.”

What has been the key to your success?

“My key to success is to recognise where people might need help, and setting yourself up to provide it in the best way you possibly can. When you set the right goals for the right reasons, then everything will fall into place.”

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

“Looking back I wouldn’t change anything. I’m stunned at how much I have achieved and sometimes I question how I did it.

The things I have achieved due to the work I put in are just amazing to me and I’m very proud of myself.“

How would you describe Aesthetics by Agne?

“Aesthetic Clinic by Agne is a safe place for anyone who wants to enhance their appearance, to look and feel better about themselves. Honesty is my policy. I’m all about maintaining natural beauty and that’s what my clients love about me.

Providing the best possible care comes first and foremost. I prefer to keep my treatments affordable, so more people can have the healthy skin they deserve.”

“I WAS MADE FOR BUSINESS. SINCE I WAS A SMALL CHILD I KNEW I WOULD BE A BUSINESSWOMAN.”

RACKE W: AESTHETICSBYAGNE.CO.UK T: 07934 217 929 AESTHETIC CLINIC BY AGNE, 100 UNIVERSITY STREET, BELFAST BT7 1HE

May 2024

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

Treatment at Apex Headache Clinic has changed my life 53-year-old Caroline Woods from Ballyward Co. Down had been suffering with migraines as long as she could remember. This was having a massive impact on her life and after trying everything, with no relief, she visited Apex Headache Clinic in the hope of getting to the source of the problem. Here, she shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment for migraines and headaches, called The Nelson Headache Approach™, cleared her migraines, meaning that she could finally start to enjoy life again.

Caroline, when did your migraines begin?

My migraines began in my early teens, maybe even before that, they have always been there. Migraines ran in my family and when I would take a migraine I would have to go to bed. They often lasted for two to three days at a time and completely floored me. The migraines left me feeling sick and I couldn’t stand any smells, noises or bright lights. When I had migraines, I took painkillers and also injections prescribed by my doctor which I was able to inject myself to try help with the intense pain.

How did the pain affect your life?

I would have to take off work and for those two to three days when I had a migraine, I would be unable to do anything. I would be in bed in a dark room with ear plugs and an eye mask. This would have happened at least once a month but usually more regularly. If I caught the migraine quick enough and took the medication, I would have had a constant headache rather than a migraine. This meant I would suffer constant pain in the back of my head.

What led you to Apex Headache Clinic?

When I was in the office at work a customer came in and he could see that I was suffering with a migraine. He recommended that I try Apex Headache Clinic as he had attended

apex clinic

physiotherapy

for treatment, and it had helped him. I hadn’t heard of Apex Headache Clinic before and my GP had been giving me lots of medication to try help with the pain, but it wasn’t successful. The customer in work gave me the details and I made an appointment and within a few weeks of starting treatment I could start to feel the relief.

How has your life changed since having treatment?

Immensely! For me, treatment has been life changing. It has helped in every aspect of my life and I don’t have to worry about getting a migraine. I am migraine free over 98% of the time and I only get the odd niggle of a headache, which doesn’t stop me doing the things I enjoy.

What advice would you offer someone suffering from migraines?

I would definitely tell anyone suffering with migraines to attend Apex Headache Clinic for specialist physiotherapy treatment. I would also say it is important to follow the advice that they give you and implement it in your life to get the maximum benefits and clear your migraines.

To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

apex

headache clinic

podiatry

chiropody

massage

Ireland’s leading physiotherapy & sports injury clinic info@apexclinic.co.uk www.apexclinic.co.uk

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 62

5-11 Summerhil Avenue, Belfast BT5 7HD Tel: 028 9048 4153

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A MORE YOUTHFUL LOOKING YOU IS ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY! APEX CLINIC, 5-15 SUMMERHILL AVE. BELFAST, BT5 7HD TEL: 028 9048 4153 INFO@APEXCLINIC.CO.UK WWW.APEXCLINIC.CO.UK

STYLE

BEAUTY

Picks of the Month We take a look at the latest releases in make-up and skincare, including anti-redness primer, setting powder, brow and lash mascara, fake tan and skin protection.

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1. Anti-Redness Cream with SPF30, AYU, £30.24. 2. Indestructi’brow Brow Fiber Gel Mascara, £12.95, BPerfect. 3. BPerfect X Katie Daley Perfect Powders, which comes in 6 shades, £16.95, BPerfect. 4. BYSK Volumizing Mascara, £14, By Sarah Keary. 5. Dark Express Liquid Tan, £22, he-shi. 6. Daily Prevention Protect & Refresh Mist, £48, Image Skincare.

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LIFESTYLE

FITNESS

B A L LY M E N A

NEW V1BE STUDIO CONCEPT UPGRADED CYCLE STUDIO IMPROVED STRETCH AREA

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Laser nurse specialist, Liese Merry and Belfast Skin Clinic Medical Director Pamela McHenry.

Aine Russell and Sandra Hickey from Belfast Skin Clinic.

Secret PRO demonstration with Anna Lewandowska.

Belfast Skin Clinic PRP demonstration with laser nurse specialist, Liese Merry.

Mairead McLean, Debbie Neill, June Wilson, Elizabeth Ramsey and Aine Russell.

BELFAST SKIN CLINIC TECHNOLOGY AND AESTHETICS EVENT A highly successful open day at Belfast Skin Clinic showcased live demonstrations of the latest advancements in aesthetic technology. Guests were introduced to the innovative Secret PRO, providing a combination of micro needling, radiofrequency and, where required, C02 laser treatment to transform the skin. Plastic surgeons were available to discuss scar treatments. Use of PRP therapy (platelet rich plasma) for hair loss was highlighted. Excellent also for rejuvenation, PRP can be used on its own or to complement Polynucleotide treatments, which provide a choice of more natural rejuvenating therapies. Guests were also treated to marine collagen drinks which have wide-reaching benefits.

Kazia McCoubrey (Forever Marine Collagen).

Ruth Harron, Lynda Coyle and Sandra Hickey.

Skin therapist/facialist, Pamela Ferguson in the Secret PRO demonstration room.

Sahar and Edeh Zamani.

Susan Houston, Business Support and Marketing Executive Catalina Rea. 66

A SPECIALIST PRIVATE CLINIC IN BELFAST Cranmore Excellence in Dentistry is a multi-disciplinary referral practice and education facility, which provides patients and referring dentists with quality patient care and a comprehensive choice of treatments.

Your comfort is our priority and our practice has been designed to provide you with the optimum level of care.

Start your dental journey with us.

Call to book a consultation on 028 9038 1822.

Our Treatments: • Dental Implants • Restorative • Cosmetic Dentistry • Periodontics • Endodontics • Orthodontics • Oral surgery • IV Sedation • OPT • CBCT

15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE 028 9038 1822 www.cranmoredental.com

Time For Rejuvenation Escape the stresses of everyday and take time for rejuvenation at the award-winning Anantara Spa at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, a cocoon-like haven of wellbeing in the middle of Dublin city. Find balance based on the five elements with an extensive menu of body treatments and massages, alongside advanced skincare regimes designed to deliver ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

With sophisticated and minimalist décor, Anantara spa is beautifully designed using dark charcoal Kirkstone cladding and soft deep grey hues, creating a peaceful respite from the outside world. Moments of vibrant colour awaken the senses to encourage an effortless escape from the hectic pace of everyday living.

Relax in the 23 metre infinity pool, jacuzzi, sauna or eucalyptus infused steam room, and enjoy a luxurious treatment, where knowledgeable spa therapists are available to assist in finding the perfect treatment tailored to you.

For more information call +353 1 687 5194 or email spa. themarker@anantara-hotels.com

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COLUMN May 2024

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

EDITED BY KERRY ASTON

Kerry is founder and director of The Movement Medic

Should we always trust our gut with food intolerance?

It’s estimated that 1.2 million people in the UK have some sort of food intolerance or sensitivity.* It used to be only dedicated health food shops stocked “Free From” foods, but now even the local garage has gluten, dairy, meat-free alternatives gracing its shelves. So is there a growing problem that we can’t tolerate foods, or are we just more aware?

One plausible explanation for the apparent surge in food intolerances is the evolving nature of our diets. With the advent of processed foods and the prevalence of additives and preservatives, our bodies are exposed to a myriad of novel substances that may trigger adverse reactions in susceptible individuals.

Moreover, shifts in agricultural practices and the widespread use of pesticides and GMOs have fundamentally altered the composition of our food supply, potentially contributing to the development of sensitivities.

Futhermore, societal factors such as increased stress levels, sedentary lifestyles, and the proliferation of antibiotic use in both medicine and agriculture could also play a role in the rise of food intolerances. These factors not only affect our physical health, but also impact the delicate balance of our gut microbiome, which is intricately linked to our immune system and digestive health. This month, we’re exploring the complex realm of food intolerance and the importance of listening to our bodies. As a functional medicine doctor, I encounter various dietary problems daily – so let’s unravel the mysteries surrounding food intolerance.

Food Intolerance: Fact vs. Fiction Did you know 80% of our immunity lies in the gut? Comprehensive testing and nutrition planning is key, not only to helping a range of gastrointestinal symptoms but also autoimmune conditions.

Food intolerance encompasses a spectrum of reactions, from classical food allergies to sensitivies and intolerances. While classical food allergies involve the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies and elicit immediate, predictable responses, food sensitivities and intolerances may manifest differently and often involve delayed reactions.

Understanding the distinctions between these reactions is essential for accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment.

Dietary problems come in various forms, ranging from obesity and unexplained weight

gain to gastriontestinal upset and nutritional deficiencies. These issues often stem from a combination of factors, such as poor dietary choices, stress, inadequate sleep, dehydration, and even genetic predispositions. Recognising the interconnectedness of these factors is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Decoding Dietary Problems: Understanding the Root Causes When it comes to food intolerance, symptoms can be diverse, affecting various systems.

Neurological manifestations, such as headaches, panic attacks, and brain fog, are common.

Autonomic symptoms like abnormal sweating and palpitaions may also occur. Sleep disturbances, joint pain, and ear/sinus issues can be indicators. Recognising these symptoms is crucial for seeking appropriate interventions.

Addressing food intolerances and restoring gut health can lead to improved overall well-being.

Food is fuel and we want to keep it clean to keep the engine healthy. Ideally, we should be sticking to whole foods – so nothing that needs made or put together, in its raw forms. This does become difficult however when allergies mean eggs, dairy, gluten etc impact what we can buy or eat.

Navigating Diagnostic Tests: Food intolerance under the microscope Diagnostic tests play a crucial role in identifying food intolerance and guiding treatment strategies. Tests measuring IgG and IgE antibodies to foods can provide valuable insights into problematic triggers. At the clinic we have a non-invasive test specifically designed to revolutionise your digestive wellness and boost immunity. It uses cutting edge technology to examine digestive function, intestinal inflammation, and the intestinal microbiome. By prioritising treatment and assessing microbiome status, these profiles offer invaluable information to address the root causes of gut-related issues.

There’s also a new kid on the block: the Metabolomix and GI Effects Test offers the most

comprehensive analyses of nutritional status and gastrointestinal health on the market at the moment, and we’re seeing a surge in its popularity among patients wanting to regain control of gut issues.

Next time your body whispers, listen before it screams.

If you’re experiencing discomfort related to dietary problems, it’s essential to take proactive steps towards resolution. Start by cleaning up your diet, avoiding processed foods, and prioritising hydration. Additionally, consider addressing lifestyle factors such as stress and sleep quality, as these can significantly impact digestive health and overall well-being.

In functional medicine, we adopt a holisitic approach to health, recognising the interconnectedness of various factors influencing well-being. From stress management techniques to personalised nutrition plans, we tailor interventions to address individual needs comprehensively. By addressing underlying imbalances and supporting the body’s natural healing processes, we empower individuals to achieve optimal health.

Gut Instinct Remember, when it comes to food intolerance, it’s essential to listen to your body while also leveraging scientific inquiry for clarity. By taking a proactive approach to your health and addressing underlying imbalances, you can overcome dietary challenges and live life to the fullest. From comprehensive blood panels to advanced testing methodologies, we delve into the root causes of symptoms to develop tailored treatment plans.

For more information on our Reset Gut Health Package or any of our other full body health checks head to www.themovementmedic. org or contact Dr Kerry for your personalised health solutions by emailing hello@ themovementmedic.org *Taken from Food Standards Agency Research

Personalised Solutions for Your Health, Performance, and Longevity @the_movementmedic www.themovementmedic.org

Forge Physiotheraphy, 6 Bentrim Road, Lisburn, BT28 2GB info@themovementmedic.com T: 07793 718809 70

EPIONCE & SKIN PEELS EPIONCE LITE REFRESH PEEL £80 Epionce peels are used to improve the skin’s appearance, texture and tone. By applying a solution to the skin, cell turnover is increased and superficial layers of skin separate to reveal a healthy complexion.

Combining the benefits of a peel with little to no recovery time, this is the perfect treatment for brighter and fresher skin with an overall new, softer glow.

OTHER SERVICES

LIP & CHEEK ENHANCEMENTS PROFHILO SKIN BOOSTER LIP FILLERS ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS DERMAL FILLERS

THECLINICLISBURNROAD.CO.UK

For more information, please contact Jackie Donnelly T: 028 90 663063 / 184 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6AL

Proprietor Brendan McDowell, Jodie Farrell, Danielle Farrell, Claudia Morgan and Anna Stuart.

Kate McErlean and Shannon Glenn.

CASTLECOURT’S REFURBED BPERFECT STORE Huge crowds attended the opening of BPerfect Cosmetics’ newly refitted store at CastleCourt on Thursday 25th April. In attendance were Celebrity Big Brother contestants Ekin-Su and music industry mogul Louis Walsh.

Mark Stone and Michelle Ragazzoli.

Ekin-Su and Louis Walsh.

Nuala Finch, Paul Connolly, Luke Moreland, Padraig McKee and Shannon McClenaghan - Aeracha Uladh GAC.

Taylor Falconer and Shelly McKeown.

Onya Becks, Gerry Lavz and Tailor Maid.

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The Magic Awaits Nestled in 40 acres of mature woodland with manicured formal gardens, terraces and water features, Magheramorne Estate is the perfect private setting for your special day.

Romantic, luxurious and exclusive, our exquisite wedding venue is built on the foundations of love for family, friends, food and nature.

jonathandeighanphotography.com

Contact our specialist wedding team to arrange a private viewing events@magheramorneestate.com 59 Shore Road, Magheramorne, Larne BT40 3HW | T: 028 9538 0895 | magheramorneestate.com

McGuile & Bradley Sophie McGuile, daughter of Nuala and Peter McGuile, from Bangor, recently married Andrew Bradley, son of Linda and Ian Bradley, from Belfast. The wedding took place on 29th December 2023 at La Mon Hotel and Country Club.

Sophie wore a stunning dress from Wed2Be, with hair by Kim Alexandra and make-up by Helen McClurg.

Photography by Jervis Wedding Photography.

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EXCHANGE MORE THAN JUST YOUR VOWS...

Cross-border and International Wedding Money Honeymoon costs When it comes to planning the biggest day of their lives, many couples these days are travelling to beautiful faraway places, as choosing to getting married abroad becomes more popular than ever before. In fact it’s estimated that one in six couples are now opting to tie the knot in foreign climes, from the idyllic beaches of Spain, Italy or Portugal, to grand Castles and Estates across the border in the Republic, where some of the most wonderful wedding venues in the world can be found.

Of course, wherever you choose to get married, you’ll have bills to pay, be they to photographers, wedding planners, florists, even the venue itself, and in all these cases, this is where Currency Xtra comes in! At this special time, it’s crucial to choose the correct currency exchange provider, in order to get the most for your money, and to be comfortable in the knowledge that you’re receiving not only fantastic exchange rates, but a secure, professional and personal service when dealing with sending money to another country. All this and more we do, totally free of charge. All you pay is the exchange rate on the day, and your money is wired, that very day, to whatever service provider you need to pay. Simple as that.

Your honeymoon might be the biggest and most expensive trip you’ll take in a long time, so getting the best deal on your currency exchange is so important, whether that’s to pay for your hotel, or your travel agent, or simply for your holiday cash to spend whilst you’re away. Here at Currency Xtra, we pride ourselves on our professional, personal service, and always strive to offer the best exchange compared to banks and other high street currency exchange outlets. Even better, we won’t charge you commission, so the rate you see is the rate you’ll get, meaning significant savings for you.

We exchange over 70 worldwide currencies, so wherever you’re going, we’re here to help, and take the stress out of getting married abroad.

For weddings abroad, or for paying any other bills abroad, Currency Xtra are your local foreign exchange experts, with an international wingspan. Based in the west of the province, but serving the whole of Ireland north and south, we can transact business all over the world, and we’re right on hand to offer you the best value and service you’ll get. Big or small, we can cater for all your forex needs. International Money Transfers worldwide, making it easy to pay your bills abroad Holiday cash at great exchange rates. Tried and trusted providing great service for over 18. Fully regulated by HMRC and FCA

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INSTAGRAM

ONLINE

Harris & Harron Miss Katharine Harris, daughter of Richard and Tonia Harris of Abingdon, Oxfordshire, and Angus Harron, eldest son of Paul and Jenny Harron from Belfast, were recently married at Holy Trinity Church Cambridge, followed by a reception at Jesus College, Cambridge, where the couple had both studied and first met. The joyous, spring occasion brought family and friends together from both sides of the Irish Sea in beautiful surroundings. The couple honeymooned in Cornwall and are now living and working in London.

Photography by by Lucy Lloyd Photography.

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Workman & Rooney Miss Louise Workman, daughter of Hugh and Anna Workman, from Ballymoney, recently married Michael Rooney, son of the late Terry and Valerie Rooney. The wedding took place on 6th February 2024 at Leighinmohr House Hotel, Ballymena. Louise wore a gorgeous offthe-shoulder gown, while the bridesmaids wore black dresses from Ever-Pretty with beautiful bouquets by Elaine Taylor.

Photography by Aaron Dickie.

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Photo credit: Essence Photography by Karen Clerkin

Contact a member of our dedicated weddings team to arrange your viewing:

weddings@4seasonshotel.ie Coolshannagh, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y220 | www.4seasonshotel.ie | +353 (0)47 81 888

Orla McEvoy, Caitlin Heggarty and Anna Cassidy.

Senan Quinn, Stephen Devlin and Matthew Murnaghan.

Medbh McGurk, Rachel O’Neill, Emer Vallely and Emily Clarke.

Aoife Ni Cheallaigh, Niamh Ni Cheallaigh, Alex Bhraatnach, Sarah Mooney, Aoibhinn Ni Fhionnachta and Aoibheann Morrisson.

The all-Ireland camogie champions.

QUB GAA FORMAL Queen’s University GAA Society recently held their annual formal at the Malone Lodge Hotel. Following a bubbly reception and dinner, the students held an awards night to recognize the club’s accomplishments and their talented members.

Orla McEvoy, Hannah Dorrian and Aine Graham.

Sinead Quinn, Emer McMullan, Emily Clarke, Hannah Scullion, Orla McAvoy and Meabh O’Hare.

Oran McGrath, Caitlin Armstrong, Lorna McKeown and Ronan Collins.

Joseph McGinnity and Niamh Donnelly.

All-Ireland camogie champions left-right Medb, Aine, Rachel, Caitlin, Orlaith, Kate and Emily.

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Sine Woodhouse and Eva Graham.

Sandra’s Nursery Corner is one of Belfast’s longest running independent nursery stores, family-owned and running for over 40 years, helping the needs of Belfast and beyond.

Since their doors first opened they have offered ‘Sandra’s Baby Club’, this has allowed customers to hold items over with a 20% deposit until their baby arrives.

Personalised bundles are created in store by giving parents honest advice on the products available for their lifestyle.

Stocking a wide range of nursery products in store and offering some the top brands such as Venicci, Baby Style, Egg, Noordi, Cosatto, Mybabiie, Bébécar and many more.

The store is located on the Shore Road, across from Crusaders football grounds, with on-street parking available. Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday.

As Venicci brand ambassadors we are excited to introduce the newest model to the range. The Vero is an excellent all-terrain, one hand folding, fashionable stroller.

88 Shore Road, Belfast, BT15 3PZ T: 028 9077 0639

The new Shnuggle Air Lite Bedside Crib is thoughtfully designed with breathability, comfort, and reassurance at its core. ‘Because you deserve to sleep as soundly as they do.’

www.sandrasnurserycorner.com

Honouring Heroism: New Exhibition Celebrates Ulster’s Victoria Cross Winners of the Great War

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n commemoration of the indomitable courage and sacrifice displayed by the Victoria Cross recipients during World War I, the Ulster-Scots Agency and The Somme Association launched the inspiring exhibition, “Ulster’s V.C. Heroes of the Great War.”

“We are honoured to present ‘Ulster’s V.C. Heroes,’ a tribute to the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of the Victoria Cross winners of World War I from Ulster,” said Ian Crozier, CEO of the Ulster-Scots Agency.

“This exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of the debt of gratitude we owe to these courageous individuals who exemplified the highest ideals of courage, honour, and sacrifice. We are delighted that the exhibition will be situated in such a poignant and fitting surround as the prestigious Somme Museum.”

Agency Vice-Chair Freddie Kettyle enjoying the museum displays.

Carol Walker, Director of the Somme Association said “This exhibition commemorates 19 V.C. winners across all of Ulster. We are so pleased to host the exhibition and are delighted to work with the Agency to bring their stories to the public.”

“Ulster’s V.C. Heroes” is open to the public at the Somme Museum.

For more information, please visit: https://www.sommeassociation.com/visit/ somme-museum.

Alan McFarland, Somme Association Chairman and guest Kingsley Donaldson.

Ulster’s V.C. Heroes of the Great War Exhibition.

Campbell College Pipes and Drums.

ULSTER-SCOTS AGENCY | Telephone: 028 9023 1113 | Email: info@ulsterscotsagency.org.uk Facebook: UlsterScotsAgency | Twitter: UlsterScotsAgen | Instagram: DiscoverUlsterScots

Buglers from Campbell College.

Nigel McFadzean standing aside the commemoration of his Great Uncle William McFadzean V.C.

Robert McKinley, Trevor Ross and Richard Parkinson from the Somme Museum.

Carol Walker MBE and Nigel McFadzean.

Guest perusing the accompanying booklet.

Lavinia Tilson, Ulster-Scots Agency Board Member with Elizabeth Hoy, Somme Association Trustee.

The Reverend Dr Stanley Gamble, Michelle McIlveen MLA and Mark Thompson.

Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Crozier speaks to the invited guests.

The Somme Association Director Carol Walker, MBE addresses those in attendance.

Ulster-Scots Agency Board Members Freddie Kettyle, Lavinia Tilson and Cllr. Trevor Wilson with CEO Ian Crozier and Karen Stewart, Director of Corporate Services.

The Somme Association | Telephone: 028 9182 3202 | Email: sommeassociation@btconnect.com W: www.sommeassociation.com

Hillsborough Fort Guards with Ulster Reform Club visitors.

CEREMONY OF THE KEYS On Saturday 13th April, members of the Ulster Reform Club paid a visit to Hillsborough to attend the Ceremony of the Keys at Hillsborough Fort. The ceremony is the oldest extant military ceremony in the world and the locking of the fort gates reinforces the integrity of the strongold against the possibility of an attack during the night, beginning with a bugle call at sunset.

Hillsborough Fort Guard bugler Andrew Carlisle.

The Hillsborough Fort Guard on parade.

The Hillsborough Fort Guard outside St. Malachy’s Parish Church in Royal Hillsborough.

Corporal Simon Walker in St. Malachy’s Parish Church.

The Hillsborough Fort Guard on parade.

Kay and George Clarke, Joe McKee, Bill Duff, Tracey and Gary Cassells.

Hillsborough Fort Guard bugler Andrew Carlisle with Ruth Hagan, Terry Winnington and Corporal Simon Walker.

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The Word

Graduations Rebecca Louise Jones graduated from Queen’s University with the Degree of Master of Engineering with First Class Honours in Areospace Engineering.

She is pictured with Timothy Mark Neil who graduated from Queen’s University with the Degree of Bachelor of Medience, Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Obstetrics.

Jenny Pierson Graduated from Ulster University with a First Class Honours Degree in Marketing.

www.skeaeggs.com www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 Tel: 028 877 61252 www.skeaeggs.com www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 Tel: 028 877 61252

Graduation promotional photo shoot now available at Marie Allen photographer’s studio, gowns are available: Please email marie@ mariallen.co.uk or Tel 028 3835 1055 to book.

Part of the Part of the

group group

Part of the

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group group

Maeve Boyle, Cara Ferguson, Laura Sparrow and Holly Desmond.

Rachel McVeigh, Aoife Colhoun and Katie McGilligan.

Colleen Moore and Aaron McCrudden.

QUB ARCHITECTURE FORMAL Queen’s University Architecture Society held their annual formal on Tuesday 19th March. The unforgettable evening took place at the Europa Hotel.

Aine Sweeney, Ella O’Kane and Julie Madden.

Naomi Gray, Faye Murphy, Oilean Galligal, Lucy Monteith and Emma Kane.

Chloe Allen, Mia Montgomery, Alex Stojanovic and Eva Kearney.

Natalie Anderson, Emily Ireland, Lauren Gonsalves and Gerard MacAllister.

Alexis Payot, Lissa Lin, Ket yang Leng and Amelia Low.

Sam Stuart, Erin Simpson, Beth Lockhart and Sam McCracken.

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UlsterTatler

PERFECT DESIGN GUIDE 2024 This month Ulster Tatler is giving you a comprehensive design guide to help you create your perfect home. This feature is aimed at pointing you in the right direction and revealing some design ideas that you may not have thought of to make your house a home, whether it be traditional or contemporary. It features the best that Northern Ireland has to offer, from interior designers and architects, to carpets, tiles and home furnishings.

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

2020 ARCHITECTS At 2020 Architects, we don’t just design buildings, we create homes, shape environments, and bring dreams to life. With a passion for sustainability, a commitment to innovation and a dedication to excellence, we can help make your next project a reality. From award-winning contemporary designs to traditional homes that exude elegance, 2020 encapsulate all architectural styles and tastes. Whether it’s an ultra-modern extension to complement an existing home, or a large bespoke Edwardian house that oozes grandeur, we cover projects of all shapes and sizes.

2020 ARCHITECTS 49 Main Street, Ballymoney, Co Antrim BT53 6AN t: 028 276 67999 e: info@2020architects.co.uk w: www.2020architects.co.uk

Our Services We offer a full range of architectural services which, like our designs, are tailored to each individual client. We can look after your project from concept right through to completion, or with our range of remote design services, you can access all the experience and expertise of award-winning architects at a fraction of the cost. With offices both north and south of the border, we can service projects the full length and breadth of Ireland.

Our Expertise For over 11 years, 2020 have had a proven track record of pushing the boundaries of design, demonstrating a practical commitment to enhancing the overall

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experience of architecture. Whether it be an extension to an existing home, a new build or a large residential or commercial development, our cutting edge projects are scattered throughout Ireland and UK. We have a speciality for designing houses in challenging locations, urban, rural, or coastal, which are often highly protected sites with unique features that need to be incorporated into the design.

We take pride in our ability to tailor solutions that align perfectly with your vision.

Why us?

When you pick us, you are not just appointing an architect, but choosing a partner to join in your dream. Working together to fulfil your brief within planning and site limitations is a key philosophy for 2020 Architects. Every house is unique to the individual client; no two houses are designed the same. The only aspect 2020 Architects provides as standard, is how we put our clients at the centre of everything we do. Our awards speak for themselves, having received many throughout our years in business, for both architectural design and industry innovation. Most recently we were honoured by having our design chosen as the RTE Home of the Year 2023, something we are incredibly proud of.

MOST C CREATING R E AT I N G TTHE HE M O S T EEXCEPTIONAL XC E P T I O N A LHOMES HOMES ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR DESIGN W W W. K R I S T U R N B U L L . CO M

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

ADRIAN INTERIOR FURNISHINGS

ADRIAN INTERIOR FURNISHINGS Unit 1b Campbells, 75 Belfast Road, Newry

At Adrian Interior Furnishings, our vision is to inspire and empower you, providing everything you need to enjoy this very personal adventure. We offer the complete lifestyle in one place - co-ordinating, accessible and designed as a whole.

Exquisite bespoke curtains and window treatments, classic and contemporary furniture, statement lighting, hard and soft flooring, patterned and textured wallpapers, and an ever expanding range of luxurious cushions, blankets, throws, rugs, styling accessories and home fragrance.

We travel internationally and source superb quality, innovative design, the very best materials covering an extensive colour palette - all combining to help you reimagine your home.

Our inspirational showroom and design studio is easily accessed off the ‘A1’ Belfast Road, Newry with spacious parking and disabled access. It incorporates a comprehensive catalogue of interior styling.

We use unique room settings to present furniture and furnishings we have sourced

T: 028 3026 8333 E: info@adrian-interiors.com www.adrian-interiors.com

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extensively throughout Europe, Asia and USA. The showroom is where our clients start their journey to discover an interior that reflects their unique personalities and helps them create a home that brings pleasure for years to come. Our Home Design Consultation Service allows us to look at the needs of each home and help our clients evaluate how they live. We have clients throughout the whole of Ireland, United Kingdom and Europe.

At Adrian Interior Furnishings, we have developed a set of principles and guidelines for dealing with what might otherwise seem a huge and daunting task. Whether you are refreshing an existing room or starting on a new-build, we believe it is vital to remember that it is your personality that brings a room alive. We have a trusted team of bespoke curtain makers, upholsters, fitters/joiners and a delivery team, to offer a complete service to our clients.

... for busy people who want the convenience of choosing carpet from the comfort of their own home

carpetni .com

To arrange a FREE home visit or to find out more: Tel: 07818 094 040 Email: hello@carpetni.com

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

Proprietor Louise Graham.

Becks Sanderson, Sharon McClelland and Emma McClelland.

BEECHGROVE INTERIORS SPRING SOIRÉE Beechgrove Interiors, established in 1986, held their annual spring soirée on Thursday 18th April, where guests were invited to view their latest displays, browse new collections and discuss their latest interior projects, all while enjoying a lovely glass of champagne.

Louise Graham and Alison Hamilton.

Jane Rea and Lynette Lowry.

Linda O’Neill, Louise Graham and Lynette Lowry.

Lynn Wright and Donna Monteith.

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Derek Morrison and Louise Graham.

Introducing Lavender...

Evocative of the soothing warmth of Provencal fields, we are delighted to announce our new colourway for 2023 - Lavender.

PROUD SPONSOR OF INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Available Now

From Häfele Ireland - www.everhot.co.uk Find us on:

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

Damian Loughrey, Jamie Pearson, Paul Kissick, Dave Roberts and Clark Black.

TV personality Mark Millar with Claire and Jonny McCracken.

Mark Millar and Laura Oakman.

Will Dolling and Stephen Cooper.

Kelmore adhesive demonstration.

TILEWORKS TRADE NIGHT On Thursday 18th April, Tileworks held their trade event at their showroom in Balloo Drive, Bangor. Along with well over 100 in attendance was Bangor’s own TV personality, Mark Millar. Suppliers from all over the UK and Ireland showcased their products, raising awareness and aiming to enhance the quality and use of new products and materials in the industry. They also highlighted the need for apprentices in the tiling industry, be it young people starting a career or those wishing to retrain.

Kelmore team Mark Kelly, Craig Powell, Glynn Griffin and Gareth Birks.

Lenny Morrow at Kerakoll adhesive demonstration.

Jack, Dave, Ricky and Brian from the Tileworks team.

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quality isn’t expensive. It’s priceless!

www.tileworks.eu 18-20 Balloo Drive, Bangor BT19 7QY l T: 028 9145 4444 l E: info@tileworks.eu

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

DES EWING RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTS

DES EWING RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTS The Studio, 13 Bangor Road, Holywood, Co. Down BT18 0NU t: 028 9022 00500 e: home@desewing.com w: www.desewing.com

Des Ewing Residential Architects is an architectural practice based in Holywood, Co. Down. As a practice, they specialise in the procurement and design of bespoke homes. The practice is owned and run by Des Ewing, who is a chartered architect and a member of the RIBA. Des Ewing Residential Architects has been in practice now for over 20 years and has been responsible for in excess of 200 individual homes and numerous exclusive residential developments throughout the UK and Ireland. As the team concentrate soley on residential projects, it enables them to hone their techniques and continue to cultivate the technical fine points to produce more beautiful, practical and resilient homes. They aim to constantly improve the detailing and customer service, to produce more reliable, tailored and beautiful homes in which clients love to live.

Their ethos as a practice is to make houses the best they can be and have clients who are very proud and happy to be living in them. It is not just about the design and a set of detailed drawings, but the opportunity to be able to make a real difference to people’s lives and help fulfil

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their dreams. Clients in the position to build their own home have likely worked hard for that opportunity and want to be able to trust their architect to advise, guide and listen to them; Des Ewing Architects provides such a service. They say, “We strive for perfection in every project, no matter what size. We listen to our clients, talk with them and take the time to create the look and ambience they aspire to. It is about reading the client; not necessarily what they say about a proposal, but often what they don’t say – a look or a pause that tells you they are not convinced. At that stage it is about taking the time to tease out what it is that they do or don’t like. This takes time, experience, skill and dedication. This level of commitment to our client provides them with the comfort to know nothing is compromised.”

Des Ewing Architects provides a full and dedicated service starting from outline proposals, design, planning permission, detailed design to site management and final completion of your project. Working from a head office in Holywood, Co. Down, and field office in Mayfair, London, offering high-end residential properties across the UK and Ireland.

Creating Beautiful Outdoor Spaces

www.wardenbros.com

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

FURNISHING LOCAL HOMES FOR OVER FIFTY YEARS Ulster Tatler speaks to Brendan Loughrey from Homemakers.

How long have you been working at Homemakers?

For the past 25 years I’ve been employed full-time at Homemakers, but if I include my school years, my employment has spanned four decades, which has afforded me a firsthand view of the myriad changes within the company. I’ve had the opportunity to work across every facet of the business, providing me with invaluable insights into what’s required to make the business work as efficiently and effectively as possible in every department.

What do you love most about your job?

I enjoy seeking ways to enhance our business, be it by refining our product selection, improving store aesthetics, or upholding exceptional customer service standards. In the current landscape, local businesses encounter numerous hurdles and adversities. It brings me immense satisfaction to witness Homemakers currently standing in its most robust position yet, after 52 years of operation.

What make Homemakers unique?

Our approach blends the warm, personalised care typical of a local, family-run business with an extensive selection of desirable furniture at competitive prices, catering to diverse tastes and needs. With meticulous product selection and longstanding partnerships with reputable manufacturers, we guarantee unrivalled offerings and pricing. At the heart of our operation lies an unwavering dedication to exemplary customer service, bolstered by our longestablished reputation as a trustworthy retailer within the community. This not only fosters strong bonds with our clientele but also cultivates a sense of assurance, giving our customers the confidence to entrust us with their furnishing needs, time and time again.

What interiors trends can we expect to see coming in store?

After fruitful purchasing expeditions earlier this year and a highly effective clearance event in March, we are thrilled to unveil an array of captivating new collections arriving at our showroom. Trends indicate a rising preference for sculpted shapes and geometric patterns with a noticeable transition to greens, creams

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and blues in colour palettes. We’re also seeing a growing emphasis on comfort and practicality, reflecting an increased desire to cultivate welcoming and snug environments.

What is your advice to anyone looking to redecorate or revive their homes?

When contemplating a home redecoration or update, I suggest beginning with a well-defined vision of the ambiance you aim to achieve. Evaluate the functionality of each area and think about how best to tailor it to your lifestyle needs.

Invest in a few statement pieces like a bold rug, unique artwork or eye-catching furniture to add personality to your space.

Sintered Stone Dining Tables

Contemporary Sliderobes

Innovative Sleep Technology

Visit our extensive Coleraine showroom Sofas & Armchairs Beds & Mattresses Robes & Chests Dining & Cabinets Carpet & Rugs Bring a touch of elegance and comfort to your home with our power reclining modular sofa ranges

Our Location

86-96 New Row, Coleraine BT52 1EJ (opp. Tesco)

Visit Our Website

FREE N.I. DELIVERY

www.homemakersdirect.com

Contact Us

028 70344554

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

IAN THOMPSON INTERIOR DESIGN

IAN THOMPSON INTERIOR DESIGN 661 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GT 028 9066 9069 www.ianthompsoninteriors.com @ianthompsoninteriors

For over three decades, Ian Thompson and his team have been delighting clients with their unrivalled talent for striking the perfect balance between classic and contemporary interiors.

Ian and his team provide a complete project management service that goes beyond the limits of the usual interior design service, adding considerable value to each property. Clients trust that when they employ Ian they will get something exceptionally beautiful, functional and tailored to their lifestyle. “I don’t do copyand-paste interiors,” Ian says.

Every project starts with three ingredients. First, the architecture of the building is considered, its age and form in particular. Second, there is its location, both in the world and in terms of its direct surroundings. The third ingredient is the client, who they are and how they’ll be living, working and relaxing in the space. These rules are evident in the work of award-winning interior designer Ian Thompson and his team.

When entering one of his interiors, you are hit by the initial visual impact.

Then, as you spend time in the space, you find yourself in a continual state of discovery, with every subtle touch and nuance becoming clear. In addition to

exclusive residences from Belfast, France, Spain and Portugal, his commissions also include hotels, restaurants and commercial projects.

Ian says, “I often think that my job as a designer is to take the client’s wishes, filter them through my knowledge, resources and ability to create what they want, but make it even better than their dreams.”

Ian and his team consistently exceed the expectations of their clients. They deliver by ensuring that individual elements are impeccable, from every textile to each piece of furniture, lighting, artwork, to every colour combination, nothing is left to chance. His mix of master plan and final execution are equally important.

Ian’s clients trust that they will get a design unique to them and that the installation is overseen, at each stage and to completion, by Ian himself, for total client satisfaction. This ethos of Ian’s has clients returning again and again.

Ian invites you to the showroom for a design consultation or to simply view the vast collection of exquisite fabrics, wallcoverings, lamps, furniture and accessories, with his own unique signature scent of home fragrance further enhancing your visit.

“I often think that my job as a designer, is to take my client’s wishes… and make it even better than their dreams” 100

YEAR ASSISTANCE

WARRANTY Inclusive of parts and labour

For details of local stockists contact Bodel Distributors 028 9267 2412 dist@bodel.com

BODEL

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

porcellana T I L E

S T U D I O

PORCELLANA TILE STUDIO

PORCELLANA TILE STUDIO Studio B, The Carnegie Building 121 Donegall Road, Belfast BT12 5JL www.porcellanatilestudio.com 028 90 240040

Porcellana Tile studio is an award-winning tile studio specialising in luxurious interiors for private clients, designers and architects, offering a boutique service, original ideas, exceptional quality, and a friendly attitude.

Visit us in our stunning home in the heart of Belfast. Porcellana Tile Studio is based in the former Carnegie Library on Belfast’s Donegall Road and is ideally located for easy access by road and rail with accessible on-site parking.

When visiting, you will find a relaxed environment flooded with natural light, ideal for viewing our amazing range of porcelains and stones. The studio is laid out in a unique way that gives easy access to our complete catalogue, allowing us to create the perfect bespoke scheme for your project.

We specialise in sourcing only the best porcelain and stone. Each collection is handpicked and sourced from the latest and most exclusive ranges. These fabulous collections range from large format porcelains and wood-look planks through to gorgeous brick-size tiles, luxurious mosaics and elegant patterns. Clients can consider a range of options from mood shelves and even look at how they complement various colour combinations with a range of high-end paint boards to

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hand, suggesting colours and layouts that perhaps you hadn’t considered.

From beginning until completion of your project, our team provides an excellent customer experience. Our designers will work closely with you to ensure outstanding results, taking the time to talk through your project specifications, your preferences and ideas and helping you select the best tile. With only the highest quality porcelains and stone on display, our desire is to offer enduring quality over trends - to offer substance and style and to focus on the transformative.

We invite you to pay us a visit.

New Collections Now On Display 14-16 Newry Street, Kilkeel, Co. Down BT34 4DN

028 4176 2315 www.johnashannon.co.uk

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024 THE PERFECT SMART HOME Ulster Tatler speaks to Gavin Morgan of Smart Systems NI. What is a smart home?

A smart home ties lots of different systems in your house into one interface, allowing easy control of your whole house from a touchscreen, keypads and an app on your phone, meaning you can control your home from anywhere.

Security – Have your cameras set up that when they see someone, they bring the outside and inside lights on to make it look like you’re home and send a notification to your phone to let you know they’ve seen someone. Your intruder alarm will also send a notification to your phone.

What systems can I control?

Lighting control, heating control, multi-room audio, home cinema, CCTV, intruder alarm, gates, intercoms, garage doors, door locks, TVs, Sky boxes, WiFi. There’s really no limit to how much you can install on the system!

Energy Saving – As mentioned above, the great thing about the system is having the ability to hit one button when you’re leaving the house/when you’re in bed, that ensures everything is turned off. Have better control of your heating through setting up a schedule on the app, and through not heating rooms you never use.

The fact we’re also introducing dimmable lighting is great for saving energy; most people find that when they move into a house, they end up never really running lights at 100 percent as it’s just too bright.

What are the benefits of a smart home?

Comfort – Have your lighting control set the perfect mood in your house from the flick of a button, dim certain lights to certain levels to achieve that optimal scene.

SMART SYSTEMS NI 118 Newcastle Road, Castlewellan www.smartsystemsni.com T: 028 9018 3101 E: info@smartsystemsni.com Instagram: @smartsystemsni

Efficiency – The great thing about the system is you can have one button trigger a host of actions. For example, you might have an away button that you hit when you’re leaving the house, this might turn off all lights, TVs, speakers and heating; set your intruder alarm and close your garage doors and gates. Likewise, you might have a home button setup that brings your outside lights and hallway lights on to allow you to get in, unsets the intruder alarm, and unlocks your doors.

The customisable aspect of the system is why it’s so popular!

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What do you do within a smart home project?

We try to deliver the whole package, from consultation, to design, to supply and installation. We get an idea of what you want within your house, and we install all systems (not just the smart home side of it!).

Do I need to go for everything?

No. We let clients pick and choose what they like, some start off small to get them going with the option to add on with time, the system’s very flexible to that.

CHER SlMPSON WATT lNSPlRATlONAL lNTERlORS lNFO@CHERSlMPSONWATT.COM 028 9514 0496

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

STYLISH LIVING

STYLISH LIVING

Located in Lisburn, Stylish Living is an interior design company like no other, proudly boasting an 8000 sq. ft. showroom, purpose built with twenty different rooms. With an extensive product range, Stylish Living showcases the latest trends in design, furniture, lighting and soft furnishings to suit every taste.

The team at Stylish Living - Evelyn, Luke and Alastair - pride themselves on their design knowledge and attention to detail, creating the finest interiors to fulfil their clients’ requests. Everything is achievable: whether it’s furnishing one room, or taking a new home project from concept to completion.

Upon arrival at the showroom, clients are immediately blown away by the magnificent Home Experience Showroom, taking you on an inspirational journey through lounges, dining spaces, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and even a boot room. These rooms are further enhanced

30 Lady Wallace Lane, Lisburn BT28 3WT T: +44 (0)28 9266 6777 E: info@stylish-living.co.uk W: stylish-living.co.uk

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by the carefully chosen selection of exquisite furniture and beautiful furnishings, along with lighting, wall coverings, fabrics and floorings. In addition, the bespoke furniture and cabinetry adds that extra dimension, showing even more of the finest materials and finishes, which makes everything possible for a truly magnificent home!

With an invaluable manufacturing team of curtain makers, upholsterers, joiners and fitters, every project is given the care and attention it deserves to make the process as smooth as possible for our clients.

This ensures we deliver an overall quality of finish that we, and our clients, are extremely proud of.

You will always be warmly welcomed at Stylish Living. Whether you’re calling in to browse for that perfect home accessory, make a purchase from the floor or discuss a new and upcoming project, we will be delighted to see you.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

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C-TEC N.I. LIMITED Unit 6 Ashtree Enterprise Park Newry, Co Down Northern Ireland BT34 1BY T: 028 3083 4892 F: 028 3026 4444 E: enquiry@ct1.com W: www.ct1.com

In a time when customers are demanding cleaner, more environmentally friendly products with the lowest ecological impacts for their homes and workplaces kitchen, bathroom and bedroom designers and installers are looking for leading edge technologies that actually meet the needs of their discerning clients.

This is particularly prevalent with the rising number of adults and children with asthma or allergic conditions triggered by exposure to harmful materials.

Trades people too are looking for healthier, solvent free products that do not release gasses or VOCs, that are safer to use and do not cause irritation to their skin, throat, lungs or chest when being applied (especially in confined spaces).

That’s why they’re selecting BT1 Ultimate Bathroom Sealant and Adhesive by C-TEC. Its scientifically groundbreaking technology provides healthier and cleaner environments by effectively fighting bacteria, microbes and fungus. Based on C-TEC’s unique TRIBRID® Technology

it’s scientifically enhanced for resistance to attacks from Mold, Fungal growth, E.coli, MRSA, and other bacteria (Tested under MOD ISO 22196:2011). That’s why BT1 is the preferred choice in clinical environments such as hospitals, health centres and clean rooms.

BT1 is now available for your home at Haldane Fisher Branches across Northern Ireland.

For more information on the environmental and ecological benefits of using low impact, high performing and clinically safer sealants and adhesives visit CT1.com

UT’S PERFECT DESIGN 2024

WATERSHED

Dawn Ralph.

WATERSHED Antrim, Bangor, Belfast, Coleraine, Eglinton and Larne.

W: www.watershedbathrooms.com

Passion for bathroom design, combined with a dedicated and experienced sales team, ensures that Watershed Bathrooms remains at the forefront of the bathroom industry as one of NI’s leading bathroom retailers. With a network of six stylishly designed showrooms province-wide, our stunning bathroom and tile displays showcase an extensive range of product including many of the leading designer brands such as Laufen, Roca, Hansgrohe and Utopia. This truly stunning product portfolio of premier brands allows our experienced design consultants to create bathroom and tile designs that appeal to every taste and lifestyle.

Excellent customer service is central to everything we do. From the initial planning and design to the finishing touches, our dedicated sales team will be on hand to help you select your bathrooms and tiles, and help you every step of the way, advising you on the latest trends and innovative product. We offer a complementary design service and our excellent 3D package allows us to bring your ideas to life.

Dawn Ralph of Watershed Larne says “Gone are the days of a white threepiece standard bathroom suite: basin, bath and toilet. The options are

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now as limitless as your imagination. With products available from a huge range of world class manufacturers and suppliers, the sky literally is the limit in both design and technology. With the vast array of colours, textures and finishes available in both off the shelf and bespoke furniture, there really is something for everyone.

A bathroom is now an important room in every house and makes a statement.

People notice these rooms, so why not make your bathroom a room that people remember, whether it is with a walk in shower, coloured brassware, a statement piece of furniture, or even a bold tile or panel. Even a small change can have a huge impact.”

Whether you are looking to revamp an existing bathroom or planning a complete refurbishment, the sales team at Watershed Bathrooms have the experience and knowledge to provide you with valuable advice and guidance to aid you in making the correct choice.

For ideas on bathroom and tile design, call into one of our six showrooms situated in Antrim, Bangor, Boucher, Coleraine, Eglinton and Larne and allow the expertise and vision of our design consultants to bring your ideas to life!

McMillan Interiors We value family, history, personality and lifestyle!

We’re a family-run luxury Interior Design studio based just outside of Cullybackey, Ballymena, in a beautiful double-height barn that first started out life over fifty years ago as a working farm barn. While you’ll still find a few sheep and tractors bumbling over the fields here, we’ve since transformed this barn space into a stimulating and evocative studio, showroom, and workroom for luxury interior furnishings and furniture.

“Our goal is to draw from your own personality and creativity, helping you design a home interior that reflects your taste and style – providing a space which is beautiful, practical where needed, and a reflection of you!

We offer a bespoke, first-class service incorporating 35+ years of experience and expertise in furnishing homes from Belfast to Dublin, to Edinburgh to London, that are beautiful, comfortable, functional and long-lasting.

~ Catherine McMillan

Come and visit and furnish your home with us; settle into a comfortable armchair or our beautifully crafted UK and Irish made sofas, and feast your eyes on luxurious, exquisitely made fabrics, wallpapers, and home accessories.

Each project is treated individually because you are unique, not a copy or an imitation.”

Make your vision of home a reality!

028 2588 0012 / 07808959212 catherine@mcmillaninteriors.co.uk www.mcmillaninteriors.co.uk 53a Loan Road, Cullybackey, BT42 1PS

Initial consultations by appointment only.

e p a c s E n e d r a AG Have you run out of space at home? Do you need an office, a work studio or a music room? Or maybe you just want another zone to escape to?

You’ve probably thought about moving house, but aren’t so sure. After all, you like your neighbourhood and it is so expensive to move these days. At Garden Rooms NI they can build you more space in your garden. Whether it’s a garden office, a studio, a gym or a granny annex – they can quickly and easily create a new, eco-friendly environment for you. It will be a clean, sharp-edged contemporary building that you can be proud of.

Garden Rooms NI are a familly-run business, dedicated to supplying a professional service with a high regard for attention to detail and they try to minimise the impact on their clients’ lives.

They have over 20 years experience of building new houses throughout Ireland and have public liability and contractors all risk insurance.

Benefits of a garden room include: • Zero maintenance and low running costs.

• Built in days.

• Improves work/life balance.

• Safe and secure.

• Adds value to your home.

• Allows you to relax in a different environment.

For more information or to get a quote call 07711 872 443 or email info@gardenroomsni.com

GARDEN ROOMS NORTHERN IRELAND

028 9181 0180 GARDENROOMSNI.COM

LET US MAKE ROOM

FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE

Spring Exhibitions in Portrush and Templepatrick for Margey Artist Adrian Margey will be staging two solo exhibitions and sales of work this spring. The first will be held in the iconic Arcadia Portrush over the first May Bank Holiday Weekend: Saturday 4th - Monday 6th May. Once a ballroom, the Arcadia is almost entirely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Its stunning upstairs gallery space with views across East Strand and Whiterocks Beach will make this a special show for Margey enthusiasts. The second exhibition will take place at the Hilton Templepatrick over the next Bank Holiday Weekend: Saturday 25th - Monday 27th May. Both exhibitions will showcase a range of Margey’s latest originals focused on the North Coast, Donegal, the Mournes and Belfast City. A variety of the artist’s limited edition prints will also be available. For more information on the exhibitions and to preview the work going on show visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone 07841593762.

Artist Adrian Margey ahead of his Arcadia Exhibition.

‘Portrush Harbour Lights’.

‘Whiterocks Panorama’.

‘East Strand Moods’.

‘Secret Beach, Ballintoy’.

‘Wildflowers at Lady Dixon’s’.

‘Arcadia Magic’.

‘Ballintoy Boathouse’.

‘Downhill Evening’ .

www.adrianmargey.com Tel: Portrush Studio on 078 4159 3762 for more information

For over half a century, Cookstown-based Daniel George Kitchens has been defining the most functional spaces in homes throughout Ireland, with quality craftsmanship and bespoke detailing at the heart of its projects.

Now, boasting a magnificent showroom, it serves as the epitome of kitchen inspiration, showcasing a comprehensive A-Z array of design possibilities. As well as kitchens, Daniel George has elaborated its offering to include media units and other joinery elements of the home, to ensure each space in your haven is cohesive and represents quality at every turn.

T. +44 28 8673 6960 Showroom: 45 Ruskey Rd, Coagh Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 0AH

www.danielgeorgekitchens.com

May 2024

BOOK EXTRACT

Old Romantics

This month we feature an extract from ‘Old Romantics’, the debut collection by Irish writer, Maggie Armstrong.

It’s not true that I had never worked before.

After college, I’d completed a year-long internship in the Dublin office of an international think tank. For the first month or so, there was nothing for me to do inside the think tank. I asked around, and nobody could think of anything, so I just read The Brothers Karamazov, propped against my keyboard for all to see. I made coffee and emailed friends, and read about the gross betrayals of the sons of Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov while my new colleagues all clacked on their keys and went to and from the filing cabinet. One day one of the bosses (we’ll call him John Murphy) was walking past my desk. John Murphy had his own department, his own office and nameplate, the only man in the building who sported a full suit – navy pinstripe or, in summer, cream linen that smelled when it rained. ‘You’re bored, aren’t you?’ John Murphy said, with a glance from my Hotmail, to my Russian novel. The following day he invited me to his apartment for a glass of wine.

I was still living with my parents and when I came downstairs, dressed in jeans and a sequined gilet, my mother asked where I was going.

‘To a party in my boss’s apartment.’

‘Oh well I hope you’re not the only one invited,’ said my mother and she gave me her particular smile, with both eyebrows arched in mischievous delight.

The situation with John Murphy lasted eight months and ended in desperate texts and emails full of blame. I wasn’t offered the job that might have followed the internship in the bustling, respected think tank, not because John Murphy came in the way of my employment but because I had no interest in applying for it, no motivation. I just slipped out the door and went to work on my own, in rented box rooms, scratching away at interviews and other puff pieces, before settling down with my husband and his family, and giving birth.

Now I’d been offered a good job, and I wanted to rise to its demands and to excel.

I wanted to produce, in a white heat of cleverness, to disappear into some difficult task: I think oblivion is what we all seek at work.

I booked a room for Rosaleen, though not properly, in that my husband did it. Or

he got a secretary to do it. Either way, the room was booked for us. The room was very white and it faced the sea. October sunlight beamed onto the sparkling ocean ripples, and seagulls soared up and then back down the sky as a ferry slowed into the harbour.

But this gorgeous vista held all the comfort of a screensaver. The sea might have been a wistful memory in the room, it was so remote from our present anxiety. Rosaleen entered and banged her materials on the table, and I said, ‘Hi Rose,’ to silence.

‘People do call you Rose?’

‘They don’t, actually,’ Rosaleen said.

She explained the business to me, talking in perfect sentences while message boxes jumped around a screen above our heads.

She talked in a language hard to fathom.

The business seemed to be concerned with awesome, far-fetched things, like the shape of the scaffolding beneath everything, like creating a smooth passage from one world to the next.

‘You can do Criterion B Question 6,’ she said, and got up.

Old Romantics, by Maggie Armstrong Published by: Tramp Press 114

Back at the desk, I typed in my newly chosen password, then clicked on the emails that had started coming through, with attached documents. The documents were forty pages or so in length. My chest started to tighten and I felt warm. I looked around for help.

‘Rosaleen?’

‘Yes.’ We swivelled our chairs at each other.

‘Could you remind me, which am I to do?’

‘Criterion B Question 6. Two-thirds of a page.’

‘OK. So will I do Criterion B Question 6.’

Rosaleen nodded.

Questions, I thought, showed great interest in the subject and a readiness to learn; questions showed curiosity.

‘And just, how long should it be?’

‘Two-thirds of a page, that’s what I just told you.’

‘OK.’ A few minutes went by in front of documents.

‘Rosaleen I’m sorry but I’m just not entirely sure what I’m to do.’

‘B6, right in front of you.’ She sighed.

‘This is why we needed you a month ago.’

The hallway seemed a quiet place. I stood in the hallway, then backed down the stairs, and very soon my husband came, and led me down the next flight of stairs, holding me with his apologetic eyes. I began to cry.

‘It’s a mistake! I shouldn’t be here.’

Criterion B6 was left undone. Someone else did it as they well should have, I felt, going home. Why should I do something that would take me hours to figure out, and five minutes for them? Something I had no interest in ever learning how to do? The key thing would be to make friends and identify who I could work best with.

At six o’clock my husband and I let ourselves in the front door and the two girls hopped up and down, saying, ‘Papa!

Look!’ They flapped pictures. The baby called out my name from the top of the stairs then pitched himself forwards, turning upside down. He thumped all the way down the hard, wooden stairs until the last ghastly somersault and his forehead hit the parquet tiles. He bawled crying in my arms and his tears soaked through my shirt.

NEW PANI CHAIR APPOINTED The Publicity Association for Northern Ireland (PANI) appointed Pauline Pase as its new chair at their AGM on 28th March. The AGM was held in the Dark Horse bar on Commercial Court in Belfast. Pauline Pas is Media Director at Belfast advertising agency ADHAUS. PANI is part of a network of publicity associations across the UK and was established in 1958. It is one of the longest established marketing and communication associations in the UK. Pauline Pase.

Past Chair Michael Keenan, Vice President Karin Jeffrey, Chair Pauline Pase and President Tony Axon.

Michelle Wilson and Gail Lynas.

Team of PANI council members for the year ahead.

Carol McCormick, Stephanie Cairn and Jerry McCormick.

Michelle Wilson with Harry, Andy and Owen.

‘FLORA AND FAUNA’ EXHIBITION

Carol Whitton, Irene McStay and Irene Graham.

Michelle Wilson’s new exhibition, Flora and Fauna, recently opened at the Market Place Gallery, Armagh. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception throughout the evening while viewing Michelle’s exquisite artworks exploring the natural world. A stunning array of animals, seascapes and flowers are showcased through vibrant and captivating paintings and drawings.

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craft ARMAGH

FREE ENTRY

FAIR

Sat 25 May 24 | 10.30am - 4.30pm

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre FEATURING:

Craft Stalls | Craft Demonstrations | FREE Kids drop-in Craft Workshops Great Music | Coffee Shop & Bar

visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre p 03300 561 025 f/marketplacearmagh

Artist, Ruairi Mooney.

RUAIRI MOONEY ART 2024 was off to a great start for Ruairi Mooney with a busy solo exhibition and sale of work in Portrush Town Hall on Friday 5th - Sunday 7th April. This was the Portstewart artist’s first exhibition event of the year, following on from the success of a sellout debut exhibition in 2022 and two more events in 2023. The rising artist displayed a range of contemporary landscapes and striking portrait pieces celebrating the North Coast scenery and its people. The Portrush Town Hall was a magnificent setting for the exhibition which was very well attended. A study of Seamus Heaney proved to be one of the most popular attractions of the new collection. There were swift sales of several original pieces and limited edition prints, including landscapes of Portstewart Strand and Dunluce Castle, among others.

Ruairi now turns his attention to preparations for his second exhibition of the year, his upcoming summer exhibition and sale of work in Portstewart Golf Club on Friday 2nd - Sunday 4th August.

For more information on this event or purchases contact 07565096332, visit www.artbymooney.com or follow on social media @artbymooney.

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C&R

Celebrating Our

20th

Interiors

ANNIVERSARY

Quality Kitchen & Bedroom Furniture based in Bangor

028 9146 0033

candrinteriors.co.uk

Unit 56 Balloo Drive, Bangor, Co. Down, Northern Ireland, BT19 7QY

f

May 2024

ARTS DIARY

“Cathal’s haunting exhibition presents a resilient population who grapple with the turmoil of war whilst trying to preserve a semblance of every day life.”

EDITED BY KELLIE BURCH

KELLIE@ULSTERTATLER.COM

Double Launch at Belfast Exposed It was a bumper night at Belfast Exposed recently as it launched two remarkable exhibitions.

In Gallery I, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Cathal McNaughton’s Ukraine: Searching for the Normal, was on display. On the night I had the chance to speak to Cathal about the powerful collection. He explained how it is so important to capture the reality of wars, such as the Ukraine and Russia conflict that continues to rage on, because it can happen anywhere.

After dedicating two weeks traversing Ukraine to capture the profound impact of the war, Cathal’s haunting exhibition presents a resilient population who grapple with the turmoil of war whilst trying to preserve a semblance of everyday life.

The large, stark and compelling images, which contrast everyday life (a child riding a scooter, friends catching up over dinner, people walking their dogs) against the extraordinary (domineering army tanks, buildings that have been bombed or shot at). With our own history of the Troubles, where a generation struggled to maintain a sense of normalcy against a civil war, this exhibition particularly struck a nerve.

One person who helped maintain a sense of the everyday in Northern Ireland during the conflict was Terri Hooley. And so it seems fitting that the other exhibition to be launched in Belfast Exposed’s Studio Gallery is a homage to the punk legend and local music champion. Presented in association with Belfast Exposed and Belfast-based writer and photographer Stuart Bailie, Visions of Hooley is a photographic story of Terri in his 75th year. The visual themes of Bailie’s recent book, Terri Hooley: Seventy-Five Revolutions, have been expanded and enhanced for this show, and includes new portraits and historic images of Terri, as well as snapshots of his co-conspirators across the years.

Celebrated for releasing ‘Teenage Kicks’, the classic Undertones debut in 1978, Hooley achieved so much for the local music scene through Good Vibrations, his shop and record label, giving the young in particular a sense of normalcy in Belfast at the height of our own conflict.

Launched as part of Late Night Art, both exhibitions attracted a large audience including: Liz and Brian Young from punk band Rudi; Greg Cowan from The Outcasts; artist Elly Makem; and punk tour guide Dolores Vischer.

Ukraine: Searching for the Normal and Visions of Terri opened on 4 April and run at Belfast Exposed until 1 June.

Cathal McNaughton.

Terri Hooley with Liz and Brian Young from 1970’s punk band Rudi.

Cathal McNaughton and Jules Black.

Visions of Terri exhibition at Belfast Exposed.

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Deirdre Robb and Andrew Jones with Mabel the late night art connoisseur.

Adam Turkington from Seedhead Arts and Matt Vernon from Beat Carnival are pictured with street artists Danni Simpson and FGB.

Stuart Bailie and Terri Hooley.

Countdown to Hit the North 2024 Brian Young from 1970s punk band Rudi; and Greg Cowan, The Outcasts front man.

Dolores Vischer and Mark Robinson.

Claire Archibald and Terri Hooley.

Calvin Ballard, Jane McGowan, Meabh Carragher, Ryan Meharg and Claudia Ballard.

Cathal McNaughton’s exhibition at the Belfast Exposed gallery.

Elspeth Vischer, Dolores Vischer and Elly Makem.

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Some of the world’s most celebrated street artists are set to make a splash in Belfast as part of a major art festival in May. Organised by Seedhead Arts and supported by Hennessy, the ‘Hit The North’ (HTN) street art festival has been transforming public spaces across Belfast with contemporary murals for over a decade.

This year’s festival has a strong international feel and will welcome over 60 renowned artists from South America, Asia, Middle East, North America, Africa, Australia, Europe and the UK, as well as supporting wellestablished and aspiring artists from Northern Ireland.

The festival, running from 2nd – 5th May, includes street art workshops, an artist exhibition and sketching sessions, before a ‘block party’ on Sunday 5th May where artists will be live painting on Kent Street, Belfast.

Adam Turkington, Director of Seedhead Arts, says the growing global interest in the festival illustrates how Northern Ireland is now well and truly at the centre of the street art world stage.

“Over the last decade, HTN has cultivated a strong reputation for spotting and nurturing talent, giving artists a platform from which to grow,” explains Adam.

“Many of the artists who’ve returned to paint landmark pieces in our city such as Irony, Nomad Clan, Dan Kitchener and Peachzz, had their first introduction to Belfast through our festival. The festival is where they fell in love with Belfast and we fell in love with them. This year, we’re proud to welcome a new batch of artists to fall in love with, alongside some old flames we haven’t seen for a while. We’re hosting more international guests than ever before, all bringing buckets of originality and creativity to the streets of Belfast.”

Launching this year’s festival, HTN teamed up with BEAT Carnival, adding some new artwork to the organisation’s Belfast HQ ahead of its 30th birthday.

HTN street art festival is also supported by Belfast One, The British Council, Belfast City Council, Arts and Business, along with other local businesses. Artists taking part in HTN 2024 include Sr Papa Chango, Koz Dos, Veks Van Hillik and Lidia Cao. To find out more, visit: www.seedheadarts.com Continued on page 122

ARTS DIARY

Wendy Erskine and Malachi O’Doherty.

Jan Carson and Leonor Araújo.

Paul McVeigh and Gareth Hughes.

Stephen and Ian Baxter-Crawford.

Mícheál McCann.

Bill Jeffrey and Paul McAvinchey.

Sam Thompson and Caoileann Curry-Thompson.

Jan Carson with mum Joye Carson.

Margaret McCreedy and Anne McLaughlin.

Continued from page 121

Jan Carson book launch I started reading Quickly, While They Still Have Horses, before the book launch had even finished. Once I read the first page of this short story collection by Jan Carson, I was instantly hooked. The opening story, ‘A Certain Degree of Ownership’, perfectly captures the tone of the collection.

Dark, heartbreaking, original, and utterly captivating.

Launched by No Alibis to a sold-out crowd at The Crescent Arts Centre - one of Jan’s favourite art venues in Belfast - the event had everything. Horse-shaped shortbread - courtesy of Jan’s mum, Joye Carson; an inflatable unicorn balloon; and the chance to mingle with some fantastic writers including Wendy Erskine, Malachi O’Doherty, and Paul McVeigh.

On the night, Jan was introduced by Leonor Araújo of publishers Penguin Random House and was joined in conversation by poet Mícheál McCann.

Mícheál rightly referred to Jan as “a juggernaut of Irish literature” and said “anything new by Jan Carson is worth celebrating”. This is certainly the case with this exquisite short story collection that contains stories of youth and innocence, age and experience - and all the spaces in between.

Jan Carson has been publishing her work for a decade now, and over that time her natural talent has been honed to a remarkably sharp point. Each story of the collection is as powerful as it is unique.

But they each capture something very quintessentially of this place. Whether it’s the characters you meet, the beliefs that are bubbling beneath the surface, or the perception of outsiders, I found so many

aspects of the stories familiar, as they often hold a mirror up to what life in Northern Ireland can be like.

Short stories are often lauded as the hardest piece of fiction to write. Every word has to have a purpose. But upon completing Quickly, While They Still Have Horses, Carson makes the exercise seem effortless. For me there were many standout stories, such as ‘Jellyfish’, ‘Mostly People Just Throw Bricks’, and ‘Troubling the Water’. But it is when read as a collection, it is most powerful. Carson does not shy away from the bleak or the dark in her stories. But adds dashes of wit, warmth, and compassion. As a result she has crafted a collection that shocks, thrills and captivates.

Incredibly imaginative, and remarkably unique, many of the stories will haunt you long after you’ve read them.

Quickly, While They Still Have Horses was launched on 4 April.

“Anything new by Jan Carson is worth celebrating” 122

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

UlsterTatler

o t n i g n i r Sp

! r e m m u S With summer just around the corner, this is the perfect time of year to get out and about, to try new restaurants and take a break away with friends and family. This month, we also look at golf clubs and societies to tempt you onto the course for the summer ahead.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Mash Direct!

This year, Mash Direct celebrates two decades dedicated to delivering the freshest, farm-to-fork vegetable accompaniments directly to family tables nationwide.

Martin and Tracy Hamilton had been farming the land around Comber for over thirty years when they observed the evolving market trend towards making food more convenient without compromising on healthy eating.

This thought led them to explore opportunities to add value to their farm's vegetables. Walking around the aisles of his local supermarket, Martin was struck by an idea to make fresh vegetables grown on the farm more convenient for consumers, blending traditional farm freshness with modern-day consumer needs.

With encouragement from friends and family, Martin and Tracy began experimenting with cooking, packaging, and marketing to produce readymade fresh champ, utilising Martin's grandmother's cherished recipe. This venture took shape in their newly established small factory on the farm, designed to embody a traditional cooking ethos. The factory boasted several pieces of innovative equipment, including a unique masher and steam cooker, to ensure the vegetables were steamed gently. This process was critical to retain the nutrients and capture

the freshly harvested flavour and texture.

The introduction of Mash Direct's first product Champ, to local independent stores and its delivery in a rented van each morning was just the beginning. Responding to growing customer demand, Mash Direct expanded its product line and presence, evolving from a local gem to a household name across Northern Ireland. Today, Mash Direct boasts over 40 farm-fresh vegetable products, including Carrot and Parsnip, Broccoli with Cheese Sauce, Green Cabbage, Potato Rosti, Croquettes, and fan favourites such as Skinny Fries, Beer Battered Chips and Onion Rings. These products are now staples in major supermarkets like Tesco, ASDA, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's, relished by customers throughout the UK and Ireland.

In 2015, they reached a significant milestone when they committed to making their products gluten-free. This move helped widen their appeal and cater to a broader audience, including those with coeliac disease, gluten allergies, or simply seeking healthier eating options.

Over the past two decades, Mash Direct has received over 220 accolades, a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, farming, sustainability, business, and innovation.

A highlight of their journey was in 2017 when Mash Direct was named Best Food Company in the UK at the Food Manufacture Excellence Awards in London, a remarkable achievement

that stood out even among the largest companies in the UK and Ireland.

Additionally, their Beer Battered Onion Rings and Beer Battered Chips have amassed 32 Great Taste Awards since 2007, with their Beer Battered Onion Rings clinching a Gold at the Blas na hÉireann Awards 2023, further cementing their legacy of excellence.

As part of their 20th-anniversary celebrations, they are thrilled to launch the '20 Years of Mash Direct' campaign, set to unfold over the next few months, so make sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes looks, throwbacks, competitions, and classic recipes that have marked their journey over the past two decades. Plus, you won't want to miss the major announcements they have in store—trust us, they're worth the wait!

In wrapping up, Jack Hamilton, CEO, shares message of thanks: “As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who has been a part of our journey.

Whether you're a loyal customer, a dedicated team member, or a valued partner, your support has been invaluable in shaping Mash Direct into what it is today.”

Here's to 20 years of growth, innovation, provenance, and many more years of success ahead!

For further information and media enquiries, please contact: Emma McFadden, Marketing & Sales Executive | emmamcfadden@mashdirect.com | 028 9131 1452

Six Generations of Quality, From Our Family to Yours Sam er) rtin’s Fath

(Ma r

1940

Martin 1979 Martin

Tracy

Jack

Lance

Inspired by Nature, Perfected by Tradition.

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Ards and North Down Arts and Heritage Summer Programme Unveiled

Ards and North Down Borough Council proudly presents its Arts and Heritage Summer Programme, spanning the May to August period. Bursting with an array of events, exhibitions, and creative classes, alongside exciting events at Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum, the diverse programme offers cultural experiences for everyone.

Highlights from the Arts and Heritage Summer programme include the popular Friday Night Live series of events which will see musicians Brigid O’Neill and Wilfie Gilbert take to the stage at Ards Arts Centre. The Ulster Orchestra return to Bangor Abbey in June for another enchanting evening of classical music presented by a small ensemble.

The picturesque setting of Bangor Castle’s Walled Garden will host the acclaimed ForM

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

The annual Creative Peninsula festival in August offers an abundance of opportunities to try your hand at arts and craft practices.

Featuring workshops from talented local artists, studio visits and the fantastic Creative Peninsula in the Square event, there’s plenty to get involved with.

For anyone wishing to learn a new skill or perhaps develop existing skills, Ards Arts Centre has lots of creative classes on offer – from silversmithing to calligraphy, drawing to ceramics and lots more! Enrolment for classes opens for online booking from 12noon on Thursday 25 April.

North Down Museum also has a busy summer ahead. Highlights of their programme include a series of Ulster Scots events for children, taking place in August.

From the Children’s Ceilidh, where kids can learn traditional group dances, to the lively Wiggly Weans event where little ones will delight in singing rhymes and mastering ceilidh moves. The museum will also host

Unique, Boutique & Undeniably Chic..

Me and Mrs Jones is the North Coast’s original authentic luxury, lifestyle hotel. The most attractive in its area, the quirky-modern hotel décor has been carefully chosen and boasts a sense of space and opulence throughout.

UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE

Our talented chefs pride themselves in sourcing a variety of new and unique local produce to bring you the ultimate dining experience.

Full of exciting flavours within a sophisticated yet modern setting, our

Adrian Dallas

Operations Manager

dinner menu will leave you wanting only one other thing to schedule another visit!

Your new favourite dining experience awaits!

MEET OUR TEAM

Introducing our new Operations Manager - Adrian Dallas an experienced manager with a demonstrated history of working within the hospitality industry, strong professional skills, focused on customer service and the ability to adapt to new trends.

the RNLI’s 200th Anniversary exhibition, opening in June. The exhibition will explore the important role played by the RNLI and their volunteers since the first lifeboat station opened in the borough in 1858.

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

Chris Furey

Head Chef

Chris Kane

Food & Beverage Manager

Our Head Chef Chris Furey - prides himself in preparing fresh locally produced food to a standard that complements Me & Mrs Jones Hotel, whilst skilled in menu preparation to suit all palettes.

Chris Kane our Food & Beverage Manager - Chris brings a wealth of Food & Beverage Knowledge to the Hotel, specialising in creating the perfect cocktail to be enjoyed in the lush surroundings of Me & Mrs Jones.

Book Today

1-7 The Diamond | Portstewart | BT55 7EA | Tel: 028 7083 4950 M&MJ Ulster Tatler Ad Team APRIL24.indd 1

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16/04/2024 16:22

GARDEN FURNITURE NOW ON SALE Cookstown│Campsie│Newtownabbey

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Come Join the Fun! Northern Ireland’s pinnacle agri-food event is just around the corner as the 155th Balmoral Show, in partnership with Ulster Bank, will return to the Eikon Exhibition Centre from Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th May 2024.

The show is renowned as a fantastic day out for families and the new children’s area will be a hive of activity across the 4-day event. Located beside the poultry and rabbit pavilions, the Kidz Farm will host an array of animals and the exciting new Glenarm Castle Mini Land Rover Experience, sponsored by NFU Mutual, will allow future farmers to get into the driving seat and explore a bespoke adventure trail alongside their parents. For older children, there will also be a climbing wall to challenge even the most adventurous visitors.

With new wood carving demonstrations and sheep dog displays, there really is something for everyone across the vast showgrounds. The 2024 Balmoral Show will also debut the new Strategic Power Connect Sustainability Village within the Annex building and as always, keen shoppers will be spoilt for choice as they browse hundreds of stands within the popular Makers’ Market and Eikon Shopping Village.

For food enthusiasts the show wouldn’t be complete without the tantalising tastes of the NI Food & Drink Pavilion as well as the catering areas across the showgrounds.

As is tradition, animals and agriculture will remain at the heart of the show and visitors can expect to see over 3,900 head of livestock across the highly competitive classes.

Whether you’re from the city or countryside, a first-time visitor or repeat show-goer, we welcome everyone to join us for unforgettable family fun at this year’s Balmoral Show!

To purchase your tickets or find out more about our accessibility support visit www.balmoralshow.co.uk

CO M E J O I N T H E F U N !

BEST NI SHOW

SCAN NOW TO BUY TICKETS #BalmoralShow

balmoralshow.co.uk

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! e v i v e R , Rest, Relax LUXURY CABINS FOR SALE Situated along the Ulster Way with stunning views of the River Bann and surrounding countryside, the perfect place for a staycation!

Castlerock Golf Club and beach only a two minute drive away. Enjoy the walks around Mussenden Temple or take the ferry and visit Donegal.

There’s something for everyone!

Rayhil HOLIDAY PARK

59 BALLYWOOLEN ROAD, CASTLEROCK BT51 4XQ Raymond 07541 555099 | Hilary 028 7084 8920 | Web: Rayhilholidaypark.co.uk | Email: info@rayhilholidaypark.co.uk

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER - GOLF

Time to

Tee Off!

One thing you cannot deny is our nation’s love for golf. Our exquisite golf courses, situated in our stunning landscaping, entice visitors from all over the globe. Not to mention that our small country has been lucky to produce some of the best golfing talent in the world. It is no wonder that more and more people are getting involved in the sport by signing up to golf societies and going on golf trips! In this feature, we look at some of Ireland’s best hotels for golf breaks, as well as golf clubs nearby to help inspire your next trip to a golf course!

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER - GOLF

Celebrating 25 years of Templepatrick Golf Club Templepatrick Golf Club at Kingfisher Country Estate, formerly Hilton Templepatrick Golf Club, will be celebrating 25 years of golf on 1st June this year.

The course is currently enjoying major modernisation investment as part of the redevelopment of the estate, making Kingfisher Country Estate one of the premium golf destinations in Northern Ireland. Original course designer, David Jones, is overseeing a program of works, including the reshaping of all bunkers

and tee complexes, formed with capillary concrete, tree crowning, tarmac walkways and improved water features. To assist with the ongoing work, Loughview Leisure Group Ltd have invested £1 million in replacing on-course machinery and bolstering the team of greenkeepers. Kingfisher Country Estate features Templepatrick Golf Course, the newly refurbished and rebranded DoubleTree Templepatrick Hotel and the brand new Halcyon Health Club & Spa, a sanctuary of rejuvenation and wellbeing.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of golf at Templepatrick they will be hosting a weeklong festival of golf from Sunday 2nd June – Sunday 9th June with open competitions for Golf Ireland affiliated golfers. Entry for all the Opens can be found on https://visitors. brsgolf.com/hiltontemplepatrick#/course/1.

They look forward to welcoming you as they celebrate their anniversary. www.templepatrickgolfclub.com

A unique Golf Experience Kilrush Golf Club is an 18-hole parkland course in County Clare, West of Ireland and on the Wild Atlantic Way .

The Club welcomes both green fees and society groups .

kilrushgolfclub.com

Catering is available in the clubhouse.

Parknamoney, Kilrush, Co. Clare. V15 WO25 Phone: 065 905 1138 Email: info@kilrushgolf.com 132

DOUBLETREE TEMPLEPATRICK

Email: info@kingfishercountryestate.com Phone: 028 9443 5500

Kingfisher Country Estate, Paradise Walk, Templepatrick, Ballyclare BT39 0DD

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER - GOLF

Gareth Hanna, John Dickson, Joe Kearney and Derek McConnell.

Luke Thompson of sponsor GolfNow presenting the GolfNow Perpetual Trophy to the overall winner David Lynas at Portstewart Golf Club.

David Lynas, Michael Maguire, Adrian Logan and Albert Kirk.

Martin Jordan, John Haughey, Rod Nawn and Stephen Murray.

Roddy O’Flaherty, Mark McColgan, Ciaran McCaffrey and Andrew Hollywood of United Wines.

ULSTER PRESS GOLF SOCIETY Fifty-four players attended the Ulster Press Golf Society event at the splendid Portstewart Golf Club Strand Course and thanks to General Manager David MacLaren for making the day a very memorable one. Thanks also to Karen Moss from sponsor of the day GolfNow for her help in making the event such a success.

It was very much a day to try and keep the ball on the fairway, with trouble waiting on just about every hole for those who departed from the straight and narrow. The course was in great shape and shows how the links courses have fared well with the dreadful weather that has plagued Irish golf for the last several months.

The overall winner on the day was David Lynas with 36 points, a fine score on the 2017 Irish Open venue.

Some of the winners on the GolfNow day at Portstewart GC were, L to R: Dominic Doherty, Barry Meehan, Scott Henderson (GolfNow), Ronan Henry, Lynn McCool, Luke Thompson (GolfNow), David Lynas, Roddy O’Flaherty and Gareth Hanna.

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Katherine Williamson, Lynn McCool, Denise O’Brien and Linda Giles.

Scott Henderson, Ian Blair (Bushfoot GC Manager), Chris Loughry and Luke Thompson.

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER - GOLF “We enjoy welcoming our domestic and international visitors to Lahinch and with many families and couples retuning to stay over the summer.”

John and Bríd were delighted the hotel was nominated early in 2024 in the Gold Medal Awards in three categories: Ireland Family Friendly, Tourist Hotel of the Year and Ireland’s Four Star Hotel and say they attribute those compliments to the hard-working team.

The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Lahinch and within walking distance to Lahinch Golf Club. The Club is host to The Arnold Palmer Cup this July and the renowned Walker Cup in 2026. “We are base camp for the Arnold Palmer Cup and very much looking forward to being part of it this July.”

Planning has begun already on the details for the Walker Cup 2026 and the international media spotlight on this event will also showcase the wonderful gems on Co. Clare’s coastline on the Wild Atlantic Way. For mid-week and weekend special offers www.lahinchcoasthotel.ie

Bríd and John O’Meara.

A Coastal Gem John and Bríd O’Meara are co-owners and manage the 144-bedroom Lahinch Coast Hotel in Co.Clare. They have continued with upgrades to the four-star hotel including further bedroom refurbishments and upgrades to the public areas. The couple manage the property with a dynamic team who have just been awarded an Employer Excellence Award by Failte Ireland.

Despite the business challenges with increased operational costs that face the hospitality industry currently in Ireland, the O’Meara’s have always been grateful for their superb location in the coastal village of Lahinch Co.Clare.

Midweek Offers from €119 Bed & Breakfast

Four Star Hotel in Lahinch, just a stroll from Lahinch Beach and Lahinch Championship Golf Club. 15 minutes’ drive from Spanish Point Golf Club, 30 minutes from Trump International Links Golf Club Doonbeg.

Enjoy Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool, Great food and so much to discover on Co.Clare’s stunning Wild Atlantic Way.

Lahinch Co. Clare T: +353 (0) 65 7081100 E: info@lahinchcoasthotel.ie W: www.lahinchcoasthotel.ie 135

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER - GOLF

www.arklowbay.com

STAY & PLAY AT THE ARKLOW BAY

In the heart of County Wicklow surrounded by the finest Golf Courses in Ireland

Bed, Breakfast & Dinner Packages

Call 00-353-402-26200 or Email: reservations@arklowbay.com

Current Activities Dunmurry Vets currently has approximately 60 fully paid members and like all golf societies its primary purpose is to enjoy playing golf, which it does in the following ways: • Monday and Wednesday Sweep Competitions at Dunmurry Golf Club • Palmer Trophy • Vets Team Trophy • Roy Mills Trophy • Belfast and District Veterans’ League Comprising 14 Teams • Vets’ Overnight Away Days (Early October – 2 Rounds – 1 Overnight Stay) • Christmas Sweep and Lunch Age Requirements Members must be at least 55yrs to play in the Sweeps, Trophy Competitions, Away Days and Christmas Lunch. However members must be at least 60yrs to play in the B&D Vets League.

Dunmurry Veterans Society Dunmurry Vets is a society within Dunmurry Golf Club (DGC) and has been in existence for approximately 30 years. In the early days (1994/95) it was run by one man, Mr Cecil Ferguson, who was unofficial Chairman up until 2001. In 2009, after eight years, Cecil decided to retire and Mr Rodney Palmer became the new Chairman, which he held for six years until his retirement in 2015. Mr Tony McGlone then took on the role for four years and only retired in 2019 with Mr Brendan O’Reilly taking the reins until 2022. The current Chairman is Mr Harry Stewart, with great backup from a hard-working committee.

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Admission Fee and Charity Although we charge an annual admission fee of £25 – it should be noted that £20 is donated to a charity chosen each year by the club hosting the B&D Vets League. Dunmurry Vets contributes approximately £1,200 annually to the league’s chosen charity.

B&D Vets League consists of the following clubs: Balmoral, Bangor, Belvoir, Clandeboye, Cliftonville, Donaghadee, Dunmurry, Helens Bay, Holywood, Knock, Malone, Royal Belfast, Scrabo and Shandon.

RICH HISTORY Northern Ireland has a rich tradition of brewing and distilling.

Check out Ulster Tatler’s guide to the local distilling and brewing industry. Each offers its own unique take on traditional recipes and innovative techniques, contributing to the region’s growing reputation for quality.

WELCOME TO MOURNE DEW DISTILLERY’S WORLD OF CURIOSITY! Mourne Dew Distillery, the first legal distillery to operate in the Mournes for many centuries, have pioneered the use of cold, vacuum distillation techniques to produce their super-high-quality range of spirits and liqueurs.

A FUSION OF ANCIENT AND MODERN

Founded in 2017, but with family involvement in the art of poitín-making going back centuries, Mourne Dew are a fusion of ancient and modern with traditional recipes being updated using modern technology. Tried and tested techniques are augmented with cutting edge cold distillation and flavour development processes to produce outstanding award-winning spirits.

SUPPLYING THE WORLD�S BEST

“Unique stills making unique products have resulted in Mourne Dew supplying their drinks to high-end cocktail bars and restaurants right across Europe. One notable client is the threestarred Michelin restaurant “Core by Clare Smyth” in London.

Owned and run by leading Irish chef Clare Smyth, Core is one of the world’s leading restaurants and for them to list Mourne Dew on their menu speaks volumes for the quality of the drinks produced by this local distillery.

THE MOURNE DEW SPIRIT EXPERIENCE

To showcase their unique range of drinks, Mourne Dew have reimagined a traditional distillery tour into what they call their MOURNE DEW SPIRIT EXPERIENCE, a delightful celebration of modern and ancient, and of the

curious combination of the art and science of distilling and blending.

The Spirit Experience events have been running for the past two years and it has become a major attraction for visitors to the village of Rostrevor on the shores of Carlingford Lough.

Many guests now book into local accommodation for the weekend specifically to attend the Spirit Experience events!

Each Experience is a two+ hour event (or longer depending on how the craic is going!) which takes guests on a tour through the history of their chosen spirit - whiskey & poitín, gin or vodka. Guests also learn how Mourne Dew spirits are made and hear about the long association of the locality with brewing and distillation. Most importantly, they get to taste a range of neat samples and cocktails made from their chosen spirits with each drink being a delightful, lighthearted and educational experience. The Spirit Experiences take place in Fearon’s Pub in the heart of Rostrevor village. One of the oldest pubs in Ireland, Fearon’s dates back to the 1720s and has a reputation for serving one of the finest pints of Guiness to be found anywhere in Ireland!

HOW TO BOOK A MOURNE DEW SPIRIT EXPERIENCE.

The Spirit Experiences are running most Saturday evenings throughout the summer and bookings can be done through the Mourne Dew website or by following the QR code in the advert. Private party bookings can be booked for different days/times (within reason!) for groups of eight or more people. Just contact Mourne Dew through their bookings page or by emailing hell@mournedew.com for more information.

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In The Heart of Rostrevor

Join us for an unforgettable evening of discovery and delight as we take you on a journey through the fascinating world of spirits. Immerse yourself in the artistry of our handcrafted Irish Gin, Whiskey, Poitín, and Vodka, expertly distilled with passion and precision. Learning was never so much fun as this! Each sip will transport you to a world of curiosity, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly in a world of curiosity.

IT’S MORE THAN A TOUR, IT’S AN UNFORGETTABLE SPIRIT EXPERIENCE!

AVAILABLE to buy online at www.mournedew.com or from The Good Craic Giftshop opposite Fearon’s Pub or scan our QR code GROUP AND PRIVATE BOOKINGS AVAILABLE at dates of your choosing.

Call us on 0745 333 7861 for details

Hilden Brewery Hilden Brewery is Ireland’s Oldest Independent Craft Brewery. The secondgeneration family business is located just outside Lisburn, off the main Belfast to Lisburn Road. It is set in the beautiful leafy setting of Hilden House, a Georgian Linen House built in 1824 by William Barbour who owned Barbour Threads, at one time the largest linen manufacturer in the world.

23rd – 25th August. It has an acoustic stage in the tipi, and a larger main stage in the courtyard with over 20 acts playing over the weekend, more than fifty beers and over 3,000 festival goers.

There is an artisan gin, whiskey, cider and beer producers’ tent and the food village in the front garden, all from local suppliers.

The festival has been running for nearly forty years and is perhaps one of the longest running festivals in Ireland.

Into the white-washed walls and cobble-set courtyard that served as the stables in that bygone era, there now houses the original brew house and the Stables café/restaurant which operates Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 3pm serving delicious breakfasts and lunches, tea, speciality coffee, home baked traybakes and the best scones in Lisburn. The café serves a beautiful afternoon tea with inherited tea sets and a Gentleman’s Tea which is served with a bottle of beer. The restaurant is also open for dinner on Friday evenings for a bistro and steak menu.

The estate has beautiful mature gardens with the back garden looking out onto the remnants of Hilden Mill. It is a five-minute walk to the towpath and a lovely stroll along the Lagan. The garden behind the restaurant has picnic tables laid out for those sunny days and three giant hat tipis for music nights, weddings and corporate functions.

The new brewery, housed in the lower courtyard, brews away, making a range of delicious beers which can be found in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Lidl as well as many local pubs, off-licences and restaurants. It is sold in the Stables restaurant with Belfast Blonde the firm favourite.

There are brewery tours available every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which include a conducted tour by the head-brewer, with anecdotes of Hilden, the Mill, the House, the Brewery and, of course, the beer! It is followed up with a bowl of Irish stew in the café and a flight of three beers. Brewery tours can be booked online.

The end of the summer would not be replete without attending Hilden Brewery’s Beer and Music Festival. This year’s festival is

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On the off chance the sun doesn’t shine this summer, we have the perfect day out for you...

A brewery tour at Ireland’s Oldest Independent Brewery in Lisburn.

And if it does, you can enjoy your lunch and flight of beers after in our beautiful beer garden!!

Every Wed - Fri 12pm. To book - www.hildenbrewery.com

Ian McElhinney and guests.

Vernard Walsh and John Griffin (Walsh Whiskey).

Fay and Teresita Kelly.

Garry Connolly, Karen O’Neill and Mark Johnston (Belfast Distillery Company).

Vicky Lavery and Rosie Kelly.

McConnell's Distillery Opening Night McConnell’s Distillery celebrated the official opening of their new distillery, located in the former Crumlin Road Gaol. The event was attended by the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, as well as broadcaster Julian Simmons.

Nichola Mallon and Joe Babiec.

Julie Patterson and Kasey Leigh.

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Julian Simmons and Tracey Hall.

Rose and John Kelly.

Mark Johnston and Sarah Kennedy.

US Special Economic Envoy Joe Kennedy, First Minister Michelle O’Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly, John Kelly, CEO.

Louise Collins, Maeve Hawkins and Anne McReynolds.

Frank Shivers, Breda Osborne, Kate Amber and Chris Osborne.

Chris Morrow and Glyn Roberts.

Carol-Anne Banks, Joanne Paffey and Angela Taylor.

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Grace Travers, Laraib Naveed, Francheska Mangmang, Samantha Lightbody, Naomi Reain, Beth Armstrong and Erin Loughrin.

UU FASHION AND TEXTILES FORMAL

Ulster University’s Fashion and Textiles Society held their annual formal at the Europa Hotel on Tuesday 23rd April. Students dressed to impress, had a delicious meal and ended the night by having the time of their lives on the dancefloor.

Matthew Lamb and Beth Dillon.

Naomi Reain and Erin Loughrin.

Conor McKernan and Eimear Magee.

Caolan Devlin, Roisin Conway, Lucy Hatton and Daniel Rafferty.

Juliet McCusker, Cigfá McCoy, Aine Walton and Katie McAlinden.

Aimee Welsh, Rachel McCabe, Kerry Burns, Aoibheann Kearney and Rachelle Boyle.

Lou Fettes and Niamh O’Toole.

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UU Physiotherapy Society Formal party-goers.

Lauren Clarke and Niamh Madine.

UU PHYSIOTHERAPY SOCIETY FORMAL

On Tuesday 2nd April, Ulster University Physiotherapy Society held their annual formal at the Europa Hotel. The event was a memorable one for students who attended, all wearing their best, and most dazzling, outfits.

Emma McAfee, Grainne Stapleton, Grainne McGlynn, Aoife Ryan and Orla Dempsey.

Aimee Adams and Eimear Doherty.

Beth McCourt, Maia Erwin and Emer Keaney.

Eimear Lynch, Matthew Todd and Eimear Shannon.

Katie Scott, Melissa Miller, Sarah Kelso, Alexandria Lee and Hannah Irvine.

Beth Fegard, Kaitlyn Graham and Niamh McGuinness.

Ethan Gardiner, Chloe O’Hagan, Ali Sherlock and Adam Ferris.

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PRESERVING CELEBRATING HISTORY In the realm of sports memorabilia, every autograph tells a tale – a piece of history etched in ink. For Carl Spiller and Saad Wadia, the founders of Fiber Sports Memorabilia, this journey began in childhood, with panini stickers and hand-drawn Adidas Predator boots as their youthful treasures.

A Shared Passion: Childhood collectors turned entrepreneurs, Carl and Saad’s paths intertwined through a mutual love for sports and its iconic artifacts. Saad’s trajectory led him to establish a sports management company, now representing Memorabilia. Choosing Northern Ireland as their base, the duo aimed to bring their shared passion to the heart of Belfast.

the legendary Ian Rush. Meanwhile, Carl, a seven-year England national team fighter, leveraged his contacts to make a mark in the sports memorabilia world.

From Passion to Business: As their personal collections burgeoned, the need for a dedicated space became apparent. Carl fondly recalls how his house turned into a museum of boxes, prompting the birth of Fiber Sports

Authenticity as a Hallmark: Navigating the sea of sports memorabilia, Carl and Saad identified a prevalent issue – inauthentic signatures saturating the market. Fiber Sports Memorabilia emerged as a beacon of authenticity, ensuring only the finest and genuine signatures on authentic items grace their shelves. Customers can trust that each piece is a genuine slice of sporting history.

Growing Legacy in Northern Ireland: Word quickly spread about the largest sports memorabilia shop in Northern Ireland, initially specialising in Liverpool and boxing memorabilia. The shop, featured in various news outlets, became a haven for sports enthusiasts.

As Fiber Sports Memorabilia prepares for significant expansion in the next six months, the collection promises to transcend boundaries.

Mission Statement: “Preserving legends, celebrating history” – this succinct statement encapsulates the ethos of Fiber Sports Memorabilia.

Beyond being a business, it is a dedication to the stories embedded in each autograph and the rich tapestry of sporting excellence spanning decades.

Future Horizons: As Fiber Sports Memorabilia continues

to grow, Carl and Saad invite enthusiasts to join the journey by signing up for their newsletter at: www.fibersportsmemorabilia.com.

They have signings approaching with Bryan Robson, Chris Eubank, Cafu and Luka Modric, for a meet and greet event.

Email or check out the website for more details.

In Belfast, Fiber Sports Memorabilia stands not just as a shop but as a testament to the enduring legacy of sports – a legacy that Carl Spiller, Saad Wadia, and their team are committed to preserving for generations to come.

128 Orby Drive, Belfast BT5 6BB 07930 747 472

E: info@fibersportsmemorabilia.com

W: fibersportsmemorabilia.com

Faye English, Victoria Hanna and Lily Henry as Dmitri, Anya and Vlad.

The cast of Anastasia.

PUTTING ON A SHOW Pigeon Steps Drama Productions (PSDP) was established in October 2023. It was set up by Emma Hanna to provide children and teenagers with an opportunity to get on stage and perform to an audience. The Saturday drama club, held in 2nd Ballyeaston Church Hall, is a space for members to develop their skills and build confidence through the art of theatre.

The senior PSDP group performed the junior version of the well-known Concord musical, ‘Anastasia’, on Saturday 30th March. Having auditioned and rehearsed from January, the group, aged 11-15, were ready and able to perform to a sell-out audience. The fifteen actors loved the whole experience and put on a fantastic show. The audience of family, friends and theatre fans were blown away by the talent on show. This was the first big PSDP performance and the group are now excited about their summer scheme and show. More information about PSDP can be seen on the PSDP Facebook page.

The Dowager Empress and young Anastasia played by Rachel Simpson and Eva Purdy.

Erin Hanley playing Gleb.

Taking to the stage.

Megan, Amos and Sam Rodgers.

Isabella and granny Anne McAuley.

Deborah and Wallace Bryson and Faye English.

Rachel and Olivia Davidson; Leah and Lois Ferris.

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The PSDP production of Anastasia.

Susanna, Joanna and Audrey Hassard with kids Beth, Heidi, Anna and Dee.

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UU ENGLISH AND HISTORY FORMAL On Thursday 11th April, Ulster University’s History and English Departments held their annual formal ball at the Tullyglass Hotel in Ballymena. Students and staff entered via a red carpet, enjoyed a threecourse meal and finished the evening with an awards ceremony.

Orla Hughes and Nicole Doherty.

Oriana Thompson, Katie Diver and Abbie Lennon.

Alanna, Ema, Abby,Caitlin, Amara, Hanna and Orla from the formal organising committee.

Matthew Finlay and Hannah McCaig.

Amara Macaskill, Ben Gribbon and Ellie Wisoner.

Rory McFall and Ema Svetlaviciute.

Dr Frank Ferguson and Dr Kate Byrne.

Brogan Collins and Niki Hagan.

Enya Hamilton, Brandon Taggart and Nikita McGregor.

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Emer Reilly and Marian Crossey.

Frances McMillan and Sean McMillan.

Mairead Robb, Ellie-Rose Toner, Maeve Robb and Roisin Austin.

Laura Murphy, Sinead Hughes and Kate Hughes.

Eabha Fallon, Amiee Murtagh, Erin Carr, Lauren Quinn, and Lia Rice.

Emer Reilly with Jackie and Michael Quinn.

Katie Graham, Aisling Carr, Grace Kelly, Orla McParland and Sophie McDonnell.

DOWN RIGHT BRILLIANT GALA BALL Glenda and Leah McBride with Lily Rose and Caroline Watters.

On Saturday 23rd March, registered Down’s Synrdome charity, Down Right Brilliant, held their 2024 Gala Ball in Canal Court Hotel, Newry. Guests enjoyed a delightful meal followed by dancing to music provided by Soundfunction Events.

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Make a full weekend of it and add a second night for an extra €50pps Live Music from Top Cover Bands every Weekend

Please contact Reservations for more information: T: 00353 (0) 749721014 E: reservations@abbeyhoteldonegal.com W: www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com | www.centralhoteldonegal.com

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58 Clonkee Road, Cavanagh, Newtownbutler Co. Fermangh, BT92 8FH Website: www.cavanagheggs.co.uk Email: hello@cavanagheggs.co.uk Twi er: @cavanagheggs Phone: 028 6773 7889 Mobile John: 078 5796 4436 Mobile Eileen: 078 5796 4468

Includes communal reception, kitchen and toilet facilities, as well as a private meeting room.

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Hannah Galway, Kimberley Johnston, Ellen Gyle and Anna Jones.

Orlaith Reel and Kelvin Pacturan.

Giacomo Ballocchi and Liberty Doyle.

QUB PHARMACY FORMAL On Tuesday 19th March, Queen’s University Belfast School of Pharmacy held their annual formal at Titanic Belfast. Students enjoyed a delicious meal and ended the evening with dancing and drinks to celebrate.

Aaron McCord, Lucia McPeake, Beth McIlrath and Josh McIlhagga.

Sophie Hawtorne and Louise Hermon.

Ben Hall and Orla McGinley.

Chloe-Louise Mitchell and Mirek Bukowski.

Michael Nugent and Chloe McBride.

Kate Robinson and Conor Shiels.

Molly McCartan and Katie Mooney.

Rachel Lu and Mohammed Braikat.

Caoimhe McAuley and Padhraig McNicholl.

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Formal committee Andrew Bradley, Niall Cartin, Samara Spratt, lecturer Simon Fraser, Andreea Albeanu, Rachael Doran and Yuan Zhang.

ULSTER UNIVERSITY COMPUTING SOCIETY FORMAL Students from Ulster University Computing Society held their annual formal on Wednesday 20th March at the Clayton Hotel, Belfast. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception on arrival and a four-course meal, making for a memorable night.

Lorraine Warren and Joshua Todd.

Matthew Toms and Presley Allen.

Mason Murphy, Ami Morrow, Amy McClintock and Colm Livingstone.

Chandler Cain and Helena Anzone.

Declan Madden, Ethan Skelcher and Remus Watters.

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Lawrence Thompson and Emma White.

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Mencap NI fundraising manager Tom Mallon, Joanne Petrie-Gordon, Melanie McClements, Audrey and Michael Smyth.

Audrey Smyth at Horseshoe Gallery.

OPEN NIGHT IN AID OF MENCAP On Thursday 28th March, The Horseshoe Gallery in Saintfield held an open evening in aid of Mencap, a UK charity aimed at supporting people with a learning disability. Guests were able to browse the unique art on offer while enjoying some wine and appetizers.

Horseshoe Gallery.

George Ennis and Patrick Quigley.

Gallery visitors Paul and Sue.

Suzanne McLoughlin and artist Michael Smyth.

Sculptor and artist Audrey Smyth and Lorna McCormick.

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12.30pm on Saturday 8th June, Ulster Reform Club, Belfast

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Numbers limited, tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis.

For further information contact: Julie Patterson on 028 9066 3311 or email j.patterson@ulstertatler.com

GALGORM

Open up a world of new discoveries, adventure and memory-making moments with an indulgent short break at Galgorm. Boasting world-class hospitality and unrivalled spa, accommodation and golf facilities, the globally renowned resort is the jewel in Northern Ireland’s hospitality crown. Set within 380 acres of lush parkland, the idyllic countryside surrounds boast breathtaking views of the River Maine which flows through the estate, offering the perfect setting to enjoy a tranquil and relaxing escape.

Choose from luxury accommodation, including guestrooms or lodging accommodation, providing the perfect luxury retreat for all tastes. Cottage Suites, Log Cabins, Shepherd’s Huts and three exclusive residences offer larger groups a home away from home in idyllic surroundings. www.galgorm.com

CONTRIBUTION TO BEAUTY SPONSORED BY

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO HEALTH SPONSORED BY

ELIZABETH SANDS BEAUTY SCHOOL

THE COURTYARD, CARRICKFERGUS

We have trained over 11000 beauty therapists in lashes, brows, nails and skin treatments. This has resulted in the birth of many businesses and millions in realised gains.

We are unique due to our core values as a company. We give everybody the opportunity to succeed through our blended learning approach and our extensive work with charities, supporting all mental and physical limitations by giving one-to-one tuition. We have won multiple awards for both our online and in-person training.

It has been imperative that we try to bring awareness and structure to an industry that lacks formal regulation. www.elizabethsandsbeautyschool.co.uk

Across from the sea but sheltered from the wind, The Courtyard Carrickfergus is an eclectic community of local businesses. This unique shopping centre provides the full range of retail experience: whether you are looking to vamp up your wardrobe or your living room, including JAVART, who is one of only four exclusive NI stockists of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! Take 5 to relax in our wonderful garden suntrap, and pair this with some food and drink from our coffee shop, Quarter House Coffee. Looking for some pampering? Choose from our nail bar, hairdressers or barbers, where your relaxation and personal preferences are the focus. Throughout the months of May, June, July and August, we aim to have a live event each weekend; this could be anything from cookie decorating in the garden to a small concert by the Loughshore Trad Group, and we will have different pop-up shops every weekend.

Check our socials for an update on events or just come on down! www.thecourtyardcarrickfergus.com

THE COURTYARD CARRICKFERGUS

FASHION SHOW BY THE FOX BOUTIQUES, MOIRA AND SAINTFIELD

LOOKING BACK ISSUE: MAY 2004

HINT OF PINK BALL

Brigid Andrews, Lesley Dougan, James Nesbitt and Caroline Keatley pictured at Hint of Pink Ball at Galgorm Manor.

DAILY MIRROR CLIENT PARTY

ROCKIN’ ALL OVER THE WORLD

Craig MacKenzie, Nicola Donnan, Mirror Group, Larry McGarry, Ardmore Advertising, pictured at the Daily Mirror client party at Zen Restaurant.

Joe Lindsay talked to Graham Mckenzie about travel, his extensive record collection, along with his many Ulster influences.

CINEMAGIC STARS PARTY AFTER FOOTIE Presenters Christine Bleakley and Dermot O’Leary with model Jakki Degg pictured at the Apartment after playing in the Cinemagic soccer tournament.

LAUNCH OF ‘SNOW WATER’

EMPORIO STORE OPENING

Poet Michael Longley with Jean Bolis pictured at the launch of ‘Snow Water’ at Queen’s University.

Proprietor Deirdre Doughterty with her son Gareth, pictured at the opening of the new Emporio Store.

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Picture your GREAT ESCAPE STAY | SPA | DINE galgorm.com