Ulster Tatler January 2026

N O RT H E R N I R E L A N D ’ S N O 1 G LO S SY

JANUARY 2026

®

£3.95

UT CHATS TO THE DIVINE COMEDY’S NEIL HANNON UT BRIDAL SUPLEMENT

POST PRIMARY GUIDE WINTER GRADUATIONS

£3.95 (€5.60)

MONTHLY JEWELLERY AUCTIONS Consigning Items for Auction Now

Your next great purchase is just a bid away...

LOT 4 ‘18CT GOLD DIAMOND SOLITAIRE RING’ Est: £24,000 - £26,000

LOT 6 18CT WHITE GOLD AQUAMARINE & DIAMOND NECKLACE Est: £300 - £500

LOT 37 DAVID YURMAN STERLING SILVER & 18CT GOLD EARRINGS Result: £100 - £300

LOT 3 PLATINUM DIAMOND TENNIS BRACELET Est: £1,500 - £2,500

LOT 1 CARTIER PENELOPE DOUBLE C DE CARTIER 18CT GOLD EARRINGS Est: £1,000 - £2,000

LOT 21 PLATINUM DIAMOND SOLITAIRE NECKLACE Est: £500 - £1,000

LOT 18 15CT GOLD PEARL, RUBY & DIAMOND MOURNING LOCKET & 9CT GOLD CHAIN Est: £2,000 - £3,000

LOT 27 MULBERRY IRIS LEATHER HANDBAG Est: £400 - £800

LOT 2 ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST 18CT GOLD DIAMOND LADY'S WRISTWATCH Est: £5,000 - £7,000

Bid Now at www.rosss.com

FASHIONS FADE, STYLE IS ETERNAL - YVES SAINT LAURENT

www.davidscotttiles.com The Tile Refinery, 11–19 Blythe Street, Belfast BT12 5HU

T. 028 9023 2136

A

C

C

O

E

H

IT

E

H

H

C

T

R

T

’

E

S

IC

1 2 9

-

1 3 1

B A L L Y N A H I N C H 0 2 8

9 0 8 1

R O A D ,

C A R R Y D U F F ,

3 0 0 7

I N F O @ W A T S O N B R O W N E . C O . U K W A T S O N B R O W N E . C O . U K S T A Y

C O N N E C T E D

W I T H

U S :

Transforming healthcare: Affidea arrives in

Northern Ireland

Specialist-led, personalised care without the wait We believe the world needs faster, better, more affordable access to high quality care.

We make this possible by delivering clinical excellence, using innovative medical and digital technology and offering an outstanding patient experience.

• • • • • • • •

Orthopaedics Ophthalmology Pain Management Cardiology Dermatology and Aesthetics Women’s Health General Medicine and Minor Procedures Fast access to MRI and Ultrasound Scans

We are passionate about health and compassionate towards people

Centres: Malone Rd, Belfast & Hillsborough Contact us today for an appointment - a referral is not always required.

Call: 028 9228 0103 Email: info.ni@affidea.com Modern technology Comfortable surroundings A patient-first approach Affordable prices

January 2026

CONTENTS

Features

80

53 113

12

COLUMNIST – PAUL HARRON On Proposals

28

DIARY OF MISS NORTHERN IRELAND REFLECTING ON 2025

46

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Neil Hannon

48

EMILY IN BELFAST New Year, New Me?

67

SOCIETY WEDDINGS FEATURE

89

POST-PRIMARY SCHOOLS GUIDE

99

WINTER GRADUATIONS

104

ARTS DIARY Kellie Burch

112

REVIEW: Bengal Brasserie

120

BOOK REVIEW: The Houses of Guinness

126

INTERVIEW – LOOKING BACK: JW Anderson

128

LOOKING BACK The first edition of Ulster Tatler, 1966

UT Style

This month's cover features a range of beautiful jewellery that is available from Ross's Auctioneers & Valuers.

Ross's Auctioneers & Valuers 37 Montgomery Street Belfast, BT1 4NX T: 028 9032 5448 E: info@rosss.com www.rosss.com

49

STYLE WATCH

51

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

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

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION UK - £30.00 RoI - £60.00 Overseas - £60.00

ULSTER TATLER ISSN 0049 5107 Unit 26, The Workshop, Ormeau Business Park in the Gasworks, Belfast BT7 2JA Phone: 028 9066 3311 Web: ulstertatler.com Email: accounts@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.

8

Est. 1961

THE WORKSHOP

Sick of missing out socially?

Smile with confidence Eat a meal with friends without embarrassment Smile for a family graduation photo!

CALL our Patient CoOrdinator Hollie for a FREE Consultation

We would love to help you regain your confidence!

65 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 8PX

Dr. Peter McCarron

EastBelfastDentalClinic.co.uk

Schedule a consultation with our experienced team for FREE

Call Today:

028 9045 1966

EDITOR’S LETTER

Sixty Not Out

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry

2

026 promises to be a significant year for the Ulster Tatler as it turns 60 – I hasten to add I have worked here for just over half that time. The magazine was first published in autumn 1966 and has been appearing monthly since then. This month’s “Looking Back” section is devoted to the very first edition. Interestingly, some of the businesses featured back then, e.g. Isaac Agnew and Sawers, are still going strong today – quite an achievement. Similarly, many social functions which were happening in 1966 continue to the present day, albeit in an evolved format. The Publicity Association’s June luncheon in the long-gone Midland Hotel appeared in the first edition, while the organisation’s recent awards ceremony was in last month’s magazine.

Needless to say we are planning lots to mark our 60th. We will be reprinting interviews published over the past six decades; this month’s edition contains a 2017 interview with Magherafelt-born fashion giant Jonathan Anderson. His remarkable career has continued to reach dizzying heights: he was recently all over the news upon his appointment as creative director of both women’s and men’s collections at Dior, the first designer to hold both roles. We love to hear such inspirational stories. Keep an eye out for further archived interviews in the coming months.

DIGITAL MARKETING & SALES MANAGER: Julie Patterson DEPUTY SALES MANAGER: Lorraine Gill PRODUCTION MANAGER: Richard Sherry PHOTOGRAPHER: Ian Campbell PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Tatler Type

Only NI based social magazine audited by ABC.

QUOTE FOR THE MONTH

“I was much too far out all my life And not waving but drowning” Not Waving But Drowning 1957 Stevie Smith poet (1902-1973)

Professional, patient focused dental treatments in Banbridge.

Our friendly, professional team are proud to offer a comprehensive range of dental implant services, including:

• Single, multiple and immediate implants, including ‘teeth in a day’.

• Implant overdentures.

• Solutions for failing implant treatments.

• IV sedation available.

• Minor oral surgery procedures including `wisdom teeth extractions also available.

FREE

9a Newry Road, Banbridge BT32 3HF Tel: 028 4003 2202 Email: info@precisionimplantclinic.com www.precisionimplantclinic.co.uk

Onsite Parking

10

www.robinsoninteriors.com

COLUMN January 2026

LIFE & TIMES

Paul Harron is an empty nester — his three sons have left home, at least for the time being. He lives with his wife and a wily fox terrier in east Belfast. He has authored several books, mostly on architectural history, and has written regularly for Ulster Tatler and Perspective (the journal of the Royal Society of Architects).

EDITED BY PAUL HARRON

On... Proposals Happy New Year, readers! I trust you had an enjoyable time over Christmas and have got the decorations packed away and into the attic again by now. I know it’s a bit early but with the 14th February only a month away, I’m moving swiftly from St Nicholas to St Valentine for this month’s musing.

I was over in Manchester again for work recently and had half an hour spare before needing to catch my train to the airport so decided to dander down Deansgate to look at the cathedral, which isn’t one of England’s largest or most dramatic but which is definitely worth a look. As I was about to enter the Chapter House to admire its ceiling, I realised that I was stepping into the scene of a marriage proposal. A young man had gone down on one knee and was presenting an engagement ring to a young woman who was dressed rather splendidly all in white, including a furry hat and fancy cape. For a second or two I wondered if it was a staged photo-shoot but she looked overjoyed and nodded and then they hugged and kissed in a very convincing manner and I didn’t spot any filming going on so I think it was the real deal.

So I left the handsome couple to their special moment without intruding. I rather admired the choice of venue for popping the question – maybe it had special personal significance or perhaps it just felt aesthetically pleasing and suitably historic for a pivotal moment in the history of their lives.

In our immediate and wider family and friends’ circle, the North Coast has proved

a popular spot for engagements. Our eldest son proposed to his English wife on Portstewart Strand which is of course breathtakingly beautiful but also a place they’d both come to love together for bracing walks and on which as a family we’d spent many happy times on holidays. My eldest niece ‘said yes’ at lovely Whiterocks at Portrush while her sister did so at the equally stunning Whitepark Bay – it’s hard to beat the romance of a big open space and endless sky with the sound of the waves hitting the shore in the background.

My own proposal to my Better Half was quirky and probably all the better for not having been specifically thought through. Unlike these days, there was no engagement photograph either. We’d gone on a city break to Prague and on a bit of a whim had travelled by train to the

beautiful old Bohemian town of Czesky Krumlov which then – if not now – was relatively undiscovered and remote with very limited options for tourists to stay or eat out of season. But we found somewhere before the sun set and ate goulash and dumplings in a very rustic big old beer hall and, emboldened by the hearty atmosphere and aware that no-one around us spoke much English, so even though the place was busy it was like we were the only ones in the room, I plucked up the courage – and (yes, it was so) she didn’t even take a breath before agreeing. We then walked up to the town’s castle on the hill in the chilly night air in a blur of happiness.

By the way, if you ever saw the corny musical film ‘Yentl’ with Barbra Streisand – featuring the song ‘Papa, can you hear me?’ which sounds uncannily like (the later) ‘Do you want to build a snowman?’ from ‘Frozen’ – that was filmed in Czesky Krumlov!

The engagement ring purchase came later, in Edinburgh – another highly romantic city with many great proposal spots, I’d say, from Arthur’s Seat to Calton Hill.

Apparently the top places to propose in Ulster are, drum roll please, Dunluce Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, Ballintoy Harbour, Mussenden Temple and Slieve Donard – the last one has the added advantage of already proving one’s commitment and stamina by climbing all the way to the top, I guess!

Be it in a historic church/ building or a wild open space or an atmospheric beer hall in an enchanting old city, the beauty of the backdrop doubtless adds to the magic of the moment, although of course the decision about the right person definitely supersedes the aesthetics of any marriage proposal!

Illustration by Megan Rafferty.

THIS MONTH’S OBSESSIONS: COLIN DAVIDSON: TWELVE PAINTINGS, CONVERSATIONS WITH MARK CARRUTHERS — Loving the splendidly produced book Colin Davidson: Twelve Paintings, conversations with Mark Carruthers published recently

by Merrion Press. Colin is an extraordinary artist, especially renowned for his portraits and this memoir/manifesto focuses on the role of the artist in bearing witness.

12

OUT TO LUNCH ARTS FESTIVAL — The 21st brilliant Out to Lunch Arts Festival is running in Belfast all through January – the author Zadie Smith will be in conversation at The MAC on 29th January. www.cqaf.com

A boiling water tap could help to save you time, energy & money.

Interested? Find out more from the comfort of your home.

Sit back and relax while you enjoy a live, one-on-one demonstration of the revolutionary Quooker on your smart TV or computer. See it in action as one of our expert team show you how this revolutionary boiling water tap could help save you time, energy and money whilst making everyday tasks easier and the kitchen safer for the whole family.

Want to know how it works? How easy is the installation? Or like to know more about specific benefits? Just ask. We’ll tailor the session to what matters most to you.

So why not join us live from our Customer Experience Centre, at a time of your choice and experience the innovative Quooker for yourself.

Book your personalised demonstration today!

Scan the QR code to unlock exclusive offers and to arrange a virtual demonstration or visit quooker.co.uk

Visit the Experience Centre to see a live demonstration

100°C BOILING, CHILLED AND SPARKLING WATER

Beaumont Buildings, Great Ducie Street, Manchester, M3 1PQ

The tap that does it all

Janet Wilson, Lady Bloomfield, Gail Cairns and Terry Crothers

Tanya Bloomfield, Mary Peters and Mr Bernie Gregory

Billy Young, Lady Bloomfield, Stratton Mills and Lady Mary Peters

Lady Bloomfield with her family Caroline and Boyd McDowell and Tanya Bloomfield

Lady Bloomfield and Stratton Mills

Ulster Tatler photographer Ian Campbell with Lady Bloomfield

Allyson McKimm and Lorna McCaughery with Lady Bloomfield

90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS Lady Elizabeth Bloomfield, wife of the late Sir Kenneth Bloomfield (former head of the NI Civil Service), recently celebrated her 90th birthday in style with a lunch for family and friends at the five-star Culloden Hotel. Well known for her tireless charity work over the decades, Lady Bloomfield has graced the social pages of this magazine on numerous occasions.

Lady Bloomfield with friends from Royal Belfast Golf Club 14

Matt McRoberts, James McGinn MBE, Jake McHugh

Brian Haslett, Jim Moore, Mark Irvine and Hama Davidson

Helen McGurk and Sophie Clarke

Lynne Crowther and Petra Ellis

Chloe Grattan, Logan Wilson, Kyle Murphy

Claire Craig and Romilly Moore

Damian Tumilty and Joris Minne

JINGLE AND MINGLE The newly refurbished 23rd-floor Observatory in the Grand Central Hotel, Belfast was the spectacular setting for Hastings Hotels’ annual Christmas party.

Managing director James McGinn was there to welcome guests, updating them on the company’s plans for 2026. Many well-known media personalities were in attendance, including food critic Joris Minne and food bloggers Brian Haslett and Mark Irvine, aka The Gourmet Boys.

Matt McRoberts and Alan Wallace 16

t he cast le | t he lo d ge | t he o ld stable mews

A rural retreat in the heart of Ireland…

N

estled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside,

dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is one of the last great Irish estates still in the hands of its founding family. Steeped in history, full of character and charm, it is the ultimate Irish rural escape.

Only 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast, Castle Leslie Estate boasts a variety of accommodation and activities to suit all tastes. The Castle, at the heart of the Estate, offers authentic original interiors and old-style hospitality and is a complete respite from the world.

The Lodge is the social hub of the Estate, a country house boutique hotel that brings locals and guests together in an atmosphere of conviviality and comfort.

The Old Stable Mews are the perfect spot for groups that want the convenience of hotel living combined with private luxury home rental.

Castle Leslie Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. A host of activities are on offer including pike fishing for the nature enthusiast, exceptional walking trails for those who want to breathe in fresh country air, archery and clay target shooting for the more adventurous, falconry for those to experience nature up close, a fabulous spa for rejuvenation and of course the famous world-class equestrian centre - just some of the choices that await you in this hidden corner of Ireland.

A Pamper Package at The Lodge to include one night’s sublime accommodation, a hearty full Irish breakfast, 30-minute spa treatment (choose from a Back Massage or Mini-Facial), use of our outdoor sauna & hot tubs and a 2-course dinner in Conor’s Bar starts from £336 per room.

Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Monaghan

t: + 353 47 88 100

www.castleleslie.com

6 times winner of ‘Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay’ as voted by the public. Most recently 2024, 2023 and 2022.

One of Ireland’s Best Places to Work 2025

learn more at bcorp.com

Warren McElveen, Gretch Withers, Steph McGall, Victoria McKay, Victoria McElveen, Kellyleigh Tracey, Abby Higgins, Lauren Moore and Jamie McKay

MODEL BEHAVIOUR Revolution de Cuba on Arthur Street, Belfast was the venue for the annual ACA models’ Christmas party. The event took place in early December with many of Northern Ireland’s leading models present. ACA models was established in 1990 by Alison Clarke and is now owned by Victoria Withers, who worked under Alison for eight years. Among those in attendance was the current Miss Northern Ireland, Ulster Tatler columnist Carly Wilson.

Mary Gormley, Mackenzie Porter, Holly Convery, Rachel Bradley and Ellie McMordie

Erin Neill, Anita Rafferty and Nyasanna Luak

Melissa, Chelsea, Rebecca and Michael from Make Up Pro 18

Malak Mahmoud and Ali Odeh

Sophie-Louise Balloch and Leah Graham

Caroline Turkington and Lee Stinton

James Doyle and Miss NI CarlyMSc Wilson Accounting & Finance graduates.

Grace O’Neill and Holly Murphy

Deirdre, Kate and Ella Grant

Bronagh McGilly, Conan Gilligan and Grace O’Neill 48

19

Rachel Bradley and Ellie McMordie

Adam McConnell and Bilal Korimbocus

Clandeboye’s land agent John Witchall, who worked on the estate with Elaine and Lady Dufferin from 1982-2019: “Our job was to forget everything we heard.”

Shirley O’Hara, Rosemary Lightbody, Karen Kane (Clandeboye Courtyard Manager), Arlette Maginnes and Sally Duffy

Elaine’s granddaughter Laura King and partner Cameron McKee

Clandeboye’s chief cook and trusted employee to Lady Dufferin, author Elaine Graham, with Clandeboye estate trustee, Sir Ian Huddleston, and Mae Burke MBE

A PLACE AT THE TABLE BOOK LAUNCH “A Place at the Table” by Elaine Graham was launched in Royal Ulster Yacht Club in December ‘25. Elaine was employed by Lady Dufferin for twenty-five years as cook/housekeeper on the historic Clandeboye Estate. She has many fascinating anecdotes about her time in “the big house” where, over the years, she was privileged to meet many distinguished guests, including royalty.

Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to Marie Curie Hospice and Dementia Research NI.

Elaine Graham reads excerpts from the new book under a portrait of the First Marquess of Dufferin and Ava in Royal Ulster Yacht Club

Canon Ronnie Nesbitt, Chaplain to Lady Dufferin, with Sarah and John Witchall

Ronnie and Rosemary Beggs, Valerie Crawford and Wally Gamble 20

Brenda Lindsay and Joy Honeyford

info@ezlivinginteriors.com +44 28 9066 2265 ezlivinginteriors.co.uk

Emma Jayne Armstrong, Claire Stewart and Michaela Doran

Aidan Dummigan, Deirbhile Murtagh and Matthew Doyle

Maureen McConkey and Gail Lawther

Ian Sheppard of NI Children’s Hospice; Zara Duffy, Chartered Accountants Ireland; Mark Lawther, Chartered Accountants Ulster Society; and Richard Lusty of Ulster Bank

Ashok Thomas, Teresa Campbell, Owen Henry and Rory Macallister

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS ULSTER SOCIETY CHARITY LUNCH Chartered Accountants Ulster Society hosted its Christmas charity lunch in partnership with Ulster Bank on 5th December.

Ulster Society Chairman Mark Lawther welcomed an audience of over 530 chartered accountants and their guests to the event at the Europa Hotel. The lunch raised £16,000 for the Society’s nominated charity, Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, as well as collecting thousands of Christmas presents and vouchers donated for the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. The lunch is one of the Society’s most popular and best-loved events. Speakers at the event included Ian Sheppard of Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice and comedian Aaron Butler.

Jenna Mairs, Harriett Porter, Stuart McDonald, Sara McGreer and Sophie Currie

Ben Scott, Olivia Beattie, Rachel Jamison and Oliver Johnston

Clare Stokes, Joanna McArdle, Una Warnock, Olivia Foster and Rhona Barbour

Lisa Hulme and Katrina Harte 22

Gemma Johnson and Victoria Russell

Holywood Action Cancer group committee: Tracey Haldane, Reyna Herron, Sarah Stout, Pauline Clarke, Patricia Goldblatt, Joan Eakin, Elizabeth-Anne Rennicks and Zoe Wilcox

Cora Concannon and Lesley Vize

Patricia Goldblatt, from Holywood Action Cancer group; Rosemary Lorimer and granddaughter Rachel Lorimer

Norma Bowers, Muriel Andrews and Pam McBride

Mark Irwin-Watson and Rachel Lorimer from Action Cancer

Charity bingo caller Robert Wilson and Janet Walmsley

Barbara Burke and Joan Seaton

CALL TO ACTION

Lucy McCusker, Patricia Goldblatt, Rosemary Lorimer, Mark Irwin-Watson and Rachel Lorimer

Action Cancer Holywood once again hosted its annual coffee morning at the Royal Belfast Golf Club. The event was attended by 100 ladies and raised just over £4,000.

Action Cancer Chairperson Patricia Goldblatt welcomed guests and thanked them for their support. Entertainment was provided by Mr. Robert Wilson, followed by Dr. Haydn Deane who sang a selection of Christmas songs. A number of local stallholders were also in attendance, enabling guests to buy a range of Christmas gifts. The Committee wishes to thank Tracey Preshaw and her staff at R.B.G.C. for their assistance on the morning.

24

S TAY I N B E D S TAY I N B E D

The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

AVA I L A B L E AT E XC L US I V E PA RT NE R :

M A I N A R M AGH R OA D , P O RTAD OW N BT62 4EZ I + 44 (0) 028 3887 1 61 8 I JJP IERSON.CO.UK AVA I L A B L E AT E XC L US I V E PA RT NE R : Bed: Vindö I Fabric: Designers Guild’s Glenville Granite I Rug: Soft Greige I Bed Linen: Storm Pebble

BED AS D ISPL : £ (0) 27 028 8853887 1 61 8 I JJP IERSON.CO.UK M A I N A R M AGH R OA D , P O RTAD OW N BT62 4EZ AYED I + 44 M A DVindö E B ESIPFabric: OK E W Designers I T H FAB R IC S F ROM AND I Bed Linen: Storm Pebble Bed: Guild’s Glenville Granite I Rug: Soft Greige

BED AS D ISPL AYED : £ 27 885 M A D E B ES P OK E W I T H FAB R IC S F ROM

AND

Hugh Cunningham, Seanin Cunningham and David Warton

Una Farrell, Noreen Kelly and Kirsti McDonald

Special children’s award winner Kathryn Morgan with family Paddy, Charlie, Rosie and aunts Karen, Elaine and Nanny

DOING THE BUSINESS The Canal Court Hotel and Spa, Newry, was the venue for the Newry Business Charity Christmas Dinner. This annual dinner is one of the biggest social events of the year in Newry. Guests brought along unwrapped toys for the Toy Mountain Appeal and one lucky attendee won a £5,000 holiday voucher.

Paddy, Kathryn, Rosie and Charlie Morgan

Daire Hughes MP, Deputy Mayor Cllr Geraldine Kearns and Cllr Cathal King

Peter Bayne and Honorary Polish Consul Jerome Mullan OBE

Special children’s award winner Caoimhe with mum Marina, Sinead and dad John Judge

Theresa Matthews, Rhoda Fitzpatrick, Doreen O’Neill and Bernie Fearon 26

Tina, Jack, Gemma and Pat Murphy

Nicola Kelly and Rosemary Clerkin

Debbie McArdle, award winner Thomas Burns, Grainne Burns and Jack Burns

Award winner Leo with mum and dad, Andrew and Emma O’Brien

05

The Newry Younique beauty salon team 27

January 2026

DIARY OF MISS NORTHERN IRELAND

EDITED BY CARLY WILSON

Reflecting on 2025 The last few weeks of 2025 were a beautiful whirlwind of celebration and connection! Spending quality time with family and friends, new and old, Christmas is always a time of joy and celebration within my community.

A festive highlight was attending the ACA Models Christmas party, held in the vibrant Revolution de Cuba. It was a night filled with laughter and a reminder of how special my journey has been. It was particularly meaningful to share the night with the wonderful friends I have made through entering Miss Northern Ireland and working alongside the incredible ACA team.

There is something incredibly special about celebrating the year with those who have supported, encouraged and grown with me throughout my Miss NI year so far. I am so grateful to Victoria McElveen and the entire ACA team for such a memorable year so far – and to toast to another!

As Christmas approached, I found myself slowing down and enjoying the magic of the season. I loved spending quality time with my family, something that feels even more precious in the midst of a busy year. I also enjoyed everything Belfast had to offer at Christmas time – especially the Christmas markets. My favourite stall will always be the Dutch Pancakes.

I had a fabulous time attending the Cosmetic Medicine Awards at the Culloden Estate. It was a very glamorous night, celebrating the booming cosmetic industry in Northern Ireland and the industry-leading professionals right on our doorstep. The event was brought to life by the incredible duo Michelle McTiernan and Lesley McGarrity – who know how to throw a party!

I had a fabulous time, enjoying Brian Kennedy performing with a choir and Nathan Carter singing his biggest hits and dancing beside me! A brilliant night to always remember.

No festive season would be complete without some pampering, and I have been fortunate enough to have been spoilt this year! I visited Michele International to head to the dark side – I went a few shades darker with my hair and I am thrilled with the results! I also, of course, had to top up my Brazilian blow dry treatment to keep my hair glossy and frizz-free for all my Christmas festivities! I also paid a visit to Beauty Boulevard Lisburn for fresh set of BIAB – my nails stood no chance against my dissertation submission in December.

Reflecting back on 2025, I feel so blessed for all of the incredible opportunities and excitement that has come my way. Having a December birthday means I am entering 2026 another year older at 24 – and hopefully another year wiser! I want to say a special thank you for all the lovely birthday wishes and a very big thank you to every single person who has supported me and helped me grow this year. Cheers to 2026!

Pictured at the Cosmetic Medicine Awards

At the ACA Christmas party with James Doyle

Miss World Northern Ireland 2025, Carly Wilson.

A family shopping trip

28

EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL Stay - Spa - Golf - Conference

kingfishercountryestate

Pamela Ballantine, Titanic Hotel GM Adrian McNally, Lynne Crowther and Nicola Bothwell

Naomi Watson and Nicola Bothwell

A SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE Clients, media and friends of Titanic Hotel Belfast gathered for the much-anticipated annual ‘Christmas Evening of Thanks’ in Drawing Office One, a highlight in the hotel’s event calendar. Guests were treated to welcome drinks and canapés on arrival before enjoying a selection of Christmas music spectacularly performed by Ulster Consort. General manager Adrian McNally took the floor to thank those in attendance for their support over the past year, in which the hotel was named “Northern Ireland’s Leading Hotel” for the eighth consecutive year.

Angela campbell, Matt Poole and Sarah Clarke

Lesley Maltman, Naomi Watson, Jane Maltman, Nicola and Ian Bothwell

Titanic Hotel GM Adrian McNally and Ciaran Meyler

Harry and Karen Shields, Wendy and Richard Abbott

Diane and Bree Rutledge

Robin and Edith Mercer and Robin Elliott

30

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

2025

PROUD SPONSOR OF COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR

carpetni .com

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

Ashleigh Kennedy and Jo Ferguson

Ciaran Hinds and Paul Caskey

Michael Lynch, Fiona McAteer, Stewart Killough, Gaibhin Mac Cú Uladh

Lord Dubs, Emer Rocke, Peter Osborne

Alan Nappin, Mervyn McCall

Ali McMordie and Emma Arnold

INTEGRATED EDUCATION CELEBRATED AT THE HOUSE OF LORDS Lord Dubs, a long-standing supporter of Integrated Education and campaigner for child refugees, and a former Northern Ireland minister, welcomed almost 100 guests to the House of Lords on Thursday 20 November to celebrate the crucial role played by the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) in Northern Ireland. The dinner was attended by major donors and supporters, as well as leading political figures and former students of Integrated schools. Supporters travelled from far and wide to enjoy the celebration.

Francesca and Tara Carson, Kevin and Jane McDonnell

Jill Caskey, Julie Hardy, Matthew Pitts, Katy Lynas Craig

Paul Caskey, Nicola and Nigel Forsyth, Elaine O’Byrne, Sir Harvey McGrath, Kevin O’Byrne 32

UTENSIO PRO. Quality Storage & Bins Engineered to Last.

2025

PROUD SPONSOR OF INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Find us on:

email: info@hafele.ie | www.hafele.ie

Available now at www.hafele.ie Kilcoole Industrial Estate Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow, A63 KC58 Tel: 01 287 3488

Unit L1, North Ring Business Park, Swords Road, Dublin 9, D09 NN2C Tel: 01 287 3488

Unit 2, South Cork Industrial Estate, Vicars Road, Togher, Cork, T12 KA40 Tel: 01 287 3488

Unit 1, Abbey Business Park, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 7EE Tel: 028 9085 9416

Caroline and dad David Fairley with Pamela Ballantine.

UAC President Donald and Penelope Grieve.

Lisa Fairley, Josh Saulters, Niamh Adair, Caroline Fairley, Patrick Adair, Penelope and Donald Grieve, Shaun Adair, David Fairley and Clare Adair.

Richard Livingston, Alan Graham and Alan (Plum) Tyndall.

ULSTER AUTOMOBILE CLUB The Ulster Automobile Club is celebrating 100 years in motorsport – what an achievement. To mark this very special anniversary a black tie dinner was held in the Culloden Hotel and Spa on the evening of Saturday, 1 November 2025. The guest of honour was John Watson, former F1 Champion, who was interviewed by Alan (Plum) Tyndall about his long and successful career. Pamela Ballantine was master of ceremonies and worked her magic interviewing the ‘good and the great’. Hugh Chambers, Motorsport UK CEO, presented a 100th anniversary certificate to Club President Donald Grieve.

Caroline and Lisa Fairley.

Brian and Michelle Williamson, Liz and Keith McNeilly, Liz Williamson, Trish McCann and Paul Williamson.

Sarah Jane Naylor and Jake Curran from Eddie Irvine Sports with Alan Stewart and John Watson with his 1969 Brabham F2 car.

34

UAC Hon Treasurer Bill and Anne Swann.

Continued on page 36

18 - 20 Balloo Drive, Bangor, BT19 7QY t: 028 9145 4444 | e: info@tileworks.eu insta: @tileworksni | fb: @tileworksnorthernireland

Brenda Gordon and John McGinley.

Alan Stewart and former Formula One driver John Watson.

William Creighton, Emily McGowan and Bill Swann.

UAC centenary dinner special guest the Formula One racing driver John Watson is Reunited with his 1969 Brabham F2 race car.

05

Jaqi and Ian Culbert.

The Amici choir from Greyabbey.

Trudi Maorgan, David Robinson, Carol Willis, Fiona McAlpin, Tony Gaffney and Jonny Wilson.

Nigel and Claire Hughes, UAC Chairman Wilson Carson, Priscilla and David Grey. .

Downey’s Kia dealership, Newtownards.

Phyllis McDowell, Hill Scott and Audrey Rebbeck.

Continued from page 34

36

www.2020architects.co.uk

Cheryl Lamont CBE DL, Eleanor Butterworth and Dr Maria O’Kane

Lord Mayor, Lord Lieutenant and BCC CEO John Walsh

Adrian Donaldson MBE DL, Raphi Sheridan and Karen Sheridan

Lord Mayor and Lord Lieutenant with cadets Mollie Kydd, Zara Dickson and Laura Burns

125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LIEUTENANCY A very special event was held at Belfast City Hall as The Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly received HM Lord Lieutenant Dame Fionnuala Jay-O’Boyle and The Belfast Lieutenancy to mark the 125th anniversary of The Lieutenancy.

Mukesh Sharma MBE DL and Sir Ian Greer DL

Richard Yarr MBE DL, Canon Kevin Graham MBE DL and Shane Quinn BEM DL

Rev Dr Frank Sellar DL and Dr Philip McGarry

Mukesh Sharma MBE DL, Richard Jay BEM and Professor Mark Sheridan QVRM DL

38

Victoria Denoon, Adrian Doyle, Paul McMahon and Siobhan Lynch.

Demelza Kelly-Flynn, Eimear Kearney and Darryl Flynn.

Jonathan Campbell, Lesley Maltman, Gordon Cross and Victoria Loy.

Euan Durkie, Davy McBride, Grace Owens and Judith Owens.

TITANIC BELFAST CHRISTMAS CLIENT DRINKS Titanic Belfast welcomed clients and stakeholders to a festive Christmas drinks reception within its Magical Christmas Experience, marking the start of the holiday season. With festive drinks, nibbles and entertainment, along with a special appearance by Father Christmas himself, it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, celebrate shared successes and reflect on what has been an exciting and busy year for the world-leading visitor attraction.

Kerrie Sweeney and Kyle Black.

Laura Jackson, Father Christmas and Johnny Miller.

40

Jo Hennessey, Ed Caraher, Catriona Armour, Denise Kennedy and Pamela Burn.

Judith Owens and Kyle Black.

ONCE

HOME TO THE

WORLD’S

BIGGEST

THINKERS.

STILL IS. ENQUIRE NOW ABOUT EVENT AND VENUE H I R E AT T I TA N I C B E L FA S T E N Q U I R I E S @ T I TA N I C B E L FA S T. C O M

T I TA N I C B E L FA S T. C O M

Colin Maxwell’s daughter, Sarah Huntley, with Marcus Patton

QUB architecture students Shane Walsh, Ben Riddell and Callum Walsh with Declan Hill

Colin Maxwell’s daughter Hannah introduces the exhibition

Colin Maxwell’s family: Vinnie, Hannah, Milo, Ryan, Linda, Sarah and Jamie

Paddy Acheson and Geoff Sloan

Susan and Richard Craig

THREE SCORE YEARS AND TEN On Thursday 7 October, the Colin Maxwell exhibition opened in RSUA’s Mount Charles office. The exhibition celebrates architect and accomplished artist Colin Maxwell’s work as we approach what would have been his 70th birthday and features over 70 sketches from his family’s collection. Colin showed his skill with a pencil and his deep appreciation of architecture through his sketches. The exhibition showcases various finished and unfinished sketches from across Colin’s lifetime, allowing us a glimpse into his process.

Colin Maxwell’s daughter Hannah introduces the exhibition 42

The Word

Nathan Scoley (Under 2 winner)

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

Part of the Part of the

group group

Part of the

group

Part of the Part of the

group group

Ada Hawthorne (Over 2 winner)

Cute Kids 2025 Competition Winners Congratulations to the winners of the Cutekids photo competition recently judged by the Ulster Tatler. The winner of the under 2’s was little Nathan Scoley from Portadown. The over 2’s was won by little Ada Hawthorne from Armagh.

Many thanks to all the beautiful kids for taking part, we are looking forward to the new 2026 competition in conjunction with the Ulster Tatler, kindly sponsored by Baby Boutique & Co. For details on the Cutekids 2026 promotional photoshoot and competition please contact Marie at T: 028 38351055 or email marie@marieallen.co.uk

43

Glenn McFarland, Robert Cromie and Des Neill

Chris Thompson, Philip Brooks, Alister Latimer, Sherwin Curran and Gary Johnston 05

Lee Willdridge and Gerald Hill, author of the book ‘Farewell to Richview’, presented to guest speaker Jeff White, who donated an Irish rugby cap won by his father Louis McKelvey White, a pupil at Masonic during the 1920s .

President Wallace Moffett receiving the Irish Cap won

by Louis McKelvey White (who attended Richview during the 1920s) from his son Jeff White (Somerset)

The 1950s: Chris Thompson, Robin Arbuthnot, Raymond Turrell, Alan Lindsay, Henry Wright, Ian McCartney, Rex Coghlan, Ken Irwin, Des Neill, Peter Baxter, Alastair White and Brian Mooney (1940s)

A UNIQUE LEGACY The Masonic Old Boys’ Association held their annual Christmas lunch at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, Holywood, on 13 December 2025. Over 40 members attended, with some travelling from as far away as Cork and Leeds. Despite the closure of the Masonic Boys’ School in Dublin in 1980, the Old Boys’ Association remains active and very well supported. In addition to their annual AGM and dinner, members arrange other functions throughout the year, including golf outings. The bond between members, fostered by the unique circumstances through which each attended the school, has ensured that the school’s legacy has been maintained over the years. The Association aims to preserve this for as long as possible.

Masonic Old Boys at Royal NI Yacht Club

The 1960s: Peter Brown, Terence Coghlan, Lloyd Gibb, Donald Halliday, Robert Cromie, Derek Prentice, Ian Clokey, Malcolm Tyrrell, Philip Brooks, Lee Willdridge and Gerald Hill

The 1970s: Ken Patterson, Albert Bell, Jonny Bell, outgoing president William Sparkes, Simon Davis, Sherwin Curran, Bob Percy, David Percy, Martin Hillis William Getty, Alistair Latimer, Ian Greaves, Bob Cameron, Gary Johnston, George Hunter and President Wallace Moffett 44

Maris Fragranite Bowl. Spacious, durable and hygienic.

SPECTACULARLY BIG

The Maris Fragranite bowl is designed to make a big splash in any kitchen. Impressively spacious and extremely accommodating, it makes light work of larger pots, pans and baking trays. But as well as its striking size, the Maris Fragranite bowl is also exceptionally durable and hygienic.

Made from scratch-resistant Fragranite, a composite based on quartz, the material is also treated with Sanitized® to prevent the growth of germs and bacteria.

Discover the full range at www.franke.co.uk

For details of local stockists please contact BODEL www.bodel.com

January 2026

INTERVIEW

Absent Friends

Neil Hannon talks to Jane Hardy about grief, middle age and Father Ted as The Divine Comedy’s thirteenth album proves that orchestral pop’s wry master is still finding new ways to surprise himself.

N

a question of being overawed. The reason it’s so famous is because it’s a great place to work. We weren’t in Studio Two, the Beatles one, but Number Three, the smallest. They have an astounding collection of old gear. The sound quality is different going through old microphones – I am convinced of it. I started out recording on two-inch tape and found the transition to digital quite tricky. I was always swimming against the tide. I try to find ways to keep the whole thing organic. I’m an old fuddyduddy.”

eil Hannon, doyen of orchestral pop and frontman of The Divine Comedy, has been promoting his new, thirteenth album. It’s a corker, garnering widespread critical acclaim. Its subjects range from love and mortality to the First World War and a little bit of politics.

The latter appears in Mar-a-Lago by the Sea, an imagined song, sung

by Donald Trump in prison, musing on better days in his former home.

“It’s almost beyond politics,” says Hannon. “I wanted to be really petty.

Obviously I wholeheartedly disagree with the politics of someone like Trump and I hate the way he takes up the world’s conversations – and I added to it by writing this song!”

There’s a number called Achilles, which features the First World War poet Patrick Shaw-Stewart, whose line about the enemy slaying his sweetest friend – and who will be avenged – echoes down the century.

“I wasn’t researching in the Bodleian,” Hannon explains. “It was in The Guardian, about the hundredth anniversary of the war. I was turning 43 and feeling a bit grumpy, and the poem – which was interesting – made my grumbles look insignificant in the grand scheme of time, which is what the song is about.”

“The song has to engage me. I find it very difficult to go, ‘This is what I’m feeling and I’m going to tell you about it.’ I prefer a more circuitous route.” There is another affecting song, The Last Time I Saw the Old Man, which came to Hannon while he was out walking his dogs. Given the subject — saying goodbye to his father Brian, a bishop in the Church of Ireland — you wonder whether it was tough to write. “It was tough to finish. I remember the specific part of the woods where I was singing it.” Hannon sings a snatch, his voice instantly recognisable. “It was really the arrangement that was hard — getting the gravity of the words right. But it wasn’t until I was with my mum, noodling on the old piano I grew up with, which was ostensibly my father’s, that I got the counter-melody — this kind of funereal line, going round and round in circles. It made sense of the whole thing.”

Hannon adds: “I never think about how hard or easy songs are. I kind of enjoy the process, even if at the end you think, ‘How the hell am I going to sing this?’ I try not to think about the end product. The moment you think about popularity with the fans or getting on the radio, all is lost. You’re not thinking about what the song wants.”

The album was recorded at Abbey Road Studios, with its atmosphere and vintage recording kit. “We’ve recorded there occasionally – it’s not 46

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

He observes that the music business has changed and has previously described contemporary pop as rancid.

“I’d like to take issue with myself on that,” he says. “But I do think there’s too much depression and not enough horniness.”

Father Ted, whose signature tune imprinted The Divine Comedy on the country’s consciousness, is now over thirty years old. “I look back on it very fondly and sometimes have a watch.” When there’s a technical glitch at a gig, Hannon usually thinks, I suppose we now play ‘My Lovely Horse’, which raises a smile. Has he ever been tempted to write an actual Eurovision entry? “Over the years I’ve come very close, but it’s probably better that I’ve written the ultimate satire on a Eurovision song.

It’s an absolute lottery. And I’ve never really been that popular – although I’ve had a good innings and it’s all gone terribly well.”

Wonka was a recent project, with Hannon writing songs for the successful film. “That’s the outlier – like the indie kid being let into the sweetie shop, quite literally. It was probably the greatest achievement of my career. I knew it was big, but this film cost how much?

They were in Abbey Road for a month. I like the fact that nobody knows who wrote the songs. I’ve always wanted to write something like Happy Birthday or White Christmas – songs nobody knows the origin of, that just are.”

The first song Hannon ever wrote was at school, on the back of a tennis racquet. It went: You want to know the time? Look at my wrist, I’ve got a digital watch. A digital watch. “It was very Jam.” By his teens, Hannon was writing “actual songs”. After a few years learning piano – “and not being very good” – the music began.

“The moment I made a major triad and a two-octave bass – da de da da – it sounded like ELO. Then things got more complicated and I borrowed my father’s tape recorder, which he used for his sermons, and recorded with an electronic keyboard in a side chapel, much to the chagrin of the verger.” Later, he got friends to record his songs. “I couldn’t do a proper job, so I gave up everything else. I made attempts to get to college to appease my parents, but no – I did not go to Liverpool Polytechnic to do Foundation Art. I signed to a record label with The Divine Comedy, and the rest is history.”

Hannon says he can’t easily relax with music because he’s always analysing it. “My biggest genre is late nineteenth- and twentieth-century classical music – Vaughan Williams, Ravel, Fauré, Elgar, all of that. I love French chansons; they get played a lot. I also like 60s easy listening, 70s and 80s electronic music, late-80s indie, and a smattering of jazz. If I want to go to sleep – no shame on him – I’ll probably put on Steve Reich. The slowness with which it moves is wonderful.” Hannon’s daughter Willow, now 23, is in a band, Burglar, and he did not discourage her. “I have never given her any advice about anything, and she’s turned out wonderful. Her band is a mix of Pixies and Sonic Youth – it’s terrific.” He notes that in the age of AI, that’s as good a bet as any other job.

More touring is planned, with some gigs supporting David Gray. Now 55 – which wasn’t a shock (“I was 54 and saw it coming”) – his new ambition is to get to twenty albums. With age comes experience and a changed voice. “The elasticity goes. In the early days I used to put on a Scott Walker baritone and do other things. Now I can only do a Scott Walker baritone.” But with middle age comes greater confidence. The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, from the new album, has significant gaps between its melodic sections. “When I started out, I put something interesting in every corner of a song, in case anybody moved away.”

BY JANE HARDY

The New Year isn’t a big deal in the Hannon household – a Georgian house in County Kildare. Neil Hannon and his wife, the singer Cathy Davey, don’t make a fuss. “We don’t care whether there’s a five or a six at the end of the year.”

The moment you think about popularity with the fans or getting on the radio, all is lost. You’re not thinking about what the song wants.

47

Emily in Belfast EDITED BY EMILY HANNA, VAVA INFLUENCE

Belfast Cookery School

NEW YEAR, NEW ME? Happy New Year, and welcome back to Emily in Belfast – my very first column of 2026! How exciting is that? I thought I'd kick off the year with my take on New Year's resolutions and hopefully spark a little inspiration.

I'll be honest: I am notoriously bad at sticking to resolutions. Like, impressively bad. But honestly, aren't we all? I used to fall into the trap of trying to redesign my whole life come January 1st. Then last year, after 22 years of abandoned goals and half-hearted gym attempts, I decided to flip the whole idea on its head.

Forget restrictive diets, unrealistic fitness goals, or resolutions that feel like punishments. Rather than committing to doing or not doing something, I say do everything.

So for the second year running, my New Year's resolution is to try something new every single week. It doesn't have to be wild or expensive or involve dangling upside-down (although that did happen). Sometimes it's as small as trying a new recipe, visiting a new cafe, or doing your weekly food shop somewhere different.

Last year I tried 52 new things, from making the perfect red pepper soup to attempting Inversion handstand classes (with varying levels of grace). So without further ado, here are my top 10 recommendations for you to try in 2026:

Taste of Korea

• Free Spanish lessons at The Sunflower • Take a cookery class at Belfast Cookery School - I'm eyeing up Asian Street Food and maybe even homemade pasta • Sunrise Pilates at Studio 52 (or try out their new reformer studio!)

• Take Salsa Classes in Accidental Theatre • Try Bungee Fit at Forza Studio • Aerial Yoga • Hot Yoga • Outdoor Yoga (there is truly no end to the yoga options)

Forza Studio

• Bake pistachio & dark chocolate chip cookies – life-changing, ask any of my friends • Take A Barre class Happy January, beat the blues, and I'll see you next month.

That's all from me,

Emily x

Studio 52 Pilates

48

January 2026

STYLE

EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED AT ONE OF THE HOTTEST EVENTS. Erin Neill, Anita Rafferty and Nyasanna Luak glam it up for the ACA Models Christmas party at Revolucion de Cuba.

49

n w o t t u o b a girl

BY NUALA MEENEHAN

C

osy socks, and the gentle art of easing in. Hello, January, you beautiful little nugget, how did you get here so soon?

Smash. Bang. Wallop. And just like that, it's January 2026.

The month that barges in like an unpaid intern, loudly announcing this is the year everything changes, while we're still in our Christmas pyjamas, emotionally committed to a half-empty tub of ice cream. January arrives clutching a planner, a gym membership, and the unshakeable confidence that a “new you” is only a notebook and a positive affirmation away.

Outside, the weather is bleak. Your bank balance is saying STOP and your jeans have tendered their resignation.

And yet for me, there's something quietly reassuring about it all. A time to reset. A collective agreement to clear the decks and begin again. Ideally in thick socks, under a warm coat, with a sense of calm… and a bag heaped with optimism. Especially after 2025 bowed out in a halo of chic soirées, good shoes, better cocktails, and no regrets.

My Christmas stocking was unexpectedly, and deliciously, stuffed thanks to a victorious Christmas Lidl Trolley Dash (yes, dreams really do come true). There was swanning through The Westbury Hotel in a fountain of mimosas at the Love Laura XO Dublin takeover, sipping elegant flights of cocktails at Crimson Lounge, and celebrating new season style at Cameo Boutique.

So if January insists on reflection and restraint, it's only fair we ease into it, still faintly glitter-dusted, mildly hungover, and fully aware that we've earned this breather. Welcome to 2026, folks. Remember, let's not overdo it.

CAMEO BOUTIQUE 54

Check Out...

• The Crimson Collection - 52 • Lidl Christmas Dinner - 53 • Cameo Boutique - 54 • Love Laura XO - 55

LIDL CHRISTMAS DINNER 53

LOVE LAURA XO 55

girl about town

COCKTAILS WITH A STORY: BELFAST'S CRIMSON COLLECTION

I

f a Dry January isn't on your list of noble New Year's intentions, you're well within your rights to push back, preferably with an excellent cocktail.

Enter The Crimson Cocktail Lounge at Haymarket, in the heart of Belfast, where the new year is being greeted not with abstinence, but with flair, flavour, and a very well-stocked bar.

The Crimson Collection is a fully immersive cocktail tasting experience for those who like their drinks served with stories, atmosphere, and impeccable glassware.

Guests are guided through five handcrafted cocktails, each inspired by a theme, season, or spirit, and refreshed monthly.

January ushers in New Beginnings; February flirts shamelessly with Sweet Notions. Crafted by passionate mixologists and steeped in moody elegance, it's the perfect antidote to January blues – ideal for friends, dates, or colleagues escaping the tyranny of spreadsheets.

To discover more about The Crimson Collection's monthly tastings or to book, visit crimsonbelfast.com/crimson-collection

52

girl about town

THERE'S MORE TO VALUE AT LIDL

On a dark winter evening that promised great company and the finest award-winning food, wines, and fizz, I joined a glittering gaggle of media folk for what can only be described as the most festive kick-off imaginable, courtesy of Lidl Northern Ireland. The venue was Crescent One, the gorgeous events space that is part of the beautiful Regency House, one of Belfast's most exclusive five-star boutique hotels.

We began, as all good nights should, with a wine tasting hosted by Lidl's independent wine expert, Master of Wine Richard Bampfield.

Then, ceremoniously piped into dinner by the incomparable kilted Irish News business editor Gary McDonald – is there no end to this man's talents? – we settled in for a night that promised much laughter, great wines, excellent champagne, and plenty of festive fayre.

Then came a Christmas feast that felt delightfully daring: every ingredient available to buy in Lidl transformed into something magical by award-winning chef Chris McClurg. Between courses, the brilliant May McFettridge popped in to sprinkle in some laughs, followed by a Lidl-style pass the parcel hosted by The Gourmet Boys.

This, of course, culminated in a trolley dash moment for one very lucky winner – yasssssss, it was me! Still glowing from that moment, I can confirm it is the kind of thrill you do not forget.

Post pudding, and still in glorious trolley dash-winning shock, the dance floor beckoned. DiscoBeard and DJ Dave Ralston were on hand to remind us that you absolutely can dance like nobody is watching – even if everybody is. Honestly, who among us can resist a night that combines good food, silliness, dancing, and genuine warmth?

It was joyful, generous, and full of heart – very much like Lidl Northern Ireland itself: feeding the nation, championing local producers, supporting thousands of jobs, and still somehow finding time to throw a cracking party. And if that isn't Christmas spirit, I don't know what is.

Eimear O'Sullivan, Angela Campbell and Nuala Meenehan

Brian Haslett and Geri Wright

Jane Veitch and Maxie Swain Gary McDonald May McFettridge

Helen McGurk and Gary McDonald

Mark Irvine

Master of Wine Richard Bampfield 53

girl about town

FIZZ, FASHION & FRESH ARRIVALS: CAMEO CELEBRATES AW IN STYLE

Anya Stewart, Meagan Green and Nuala Meenehan Rachel Sco

Award-winning boutique Cameo did what it does best: flung open the doors, popped the fizz and reminded everyone that fashion, when done properly, is pure joy. To celebrate the arrival of the AW collections, the newly refurbished Doagh, Ballyclare store played host to a cosy, laughter-filled in-store soirée – the kind that makes you stay longer than planned and leave mentally rearranging your wardrobe.

Models, including just-wed Meagan Green, Anya Stewart, and little ol’ me, sashayed (as one must) through the store while VIP guests sipped chilled fizz and delicately pretended not to hover around the canapés. Front and centre were fresh new-season arrivals from American Vintage, Bitte Kai Rand and Paige, with tantalising murmurs of even more brands landing come spring. Factor in Cameo stalwarts Part Two, My Essential Wardrobe and Henriette Steffensen and suddenly your “I'm just browsing” mantra doesn't stand a chance.

Artist Aly Harte brought colour and character to the walls with her artwork, while also showcasing must-have eye-wear from Rachel Scott Opticians East Belfast – proof that eyewear can, in fact, be both practical and fabulous.

Completing the sensory overload, interior designer Alyson Donaldson hosted a pop-up shop featuring her cult-favourite Baobab candles, because if you're updating your wardrobe, you may as well update the vibe too.

Fashion fans, consider this your polite but firm warning: there's plenty more excitement on the way this spring. Keep your eyes peeled (and your thumbs scrolling) and check out Cameo on Instagram to be first in the know.

tt and Sa

rah Mart

Anya Stewart, Sarah Martin, Meagan Green and Nuala Meenehan

Alyson Donaldson

Sarah Martin, Ann-Marie Martin and Martine McCurdy

Heather Duff, Amanda Ritchie and Jill Robson The Cameo Team 54

in

girl about town Team Love Laura XO

LOVE LAURA XO STEALS THE SHOW AT THE WESTBURY

If there was a perfect way to start the day, it was with mimosas, fabulous women, and enough stunning fashion to make wardrobes question their life choices. That was the scene at The Westbury Hotel, where Love Laura XO – the bespoke collection from Walk In Wardrobe founder Laura Kearney – made its elegant Dublin debut, celebrating the brand's Autumn/Winter 2025 edit.

The morning brought together Ireland's most fashionable personalities – including Lorraine Keane, Caoimhe McGinley, Denise Phillips, and Miss Ireland Caoimhe Kenny – all gathered to toast confidence, style, and more than a little sparkle.

The collection itself is a love letter to modern femininity: eight beautifully curated edits featuring dresses, outerwear, denim, and nightwear – plus a first look at Love Laura XO's dazzling new shoe and handbag line. Guests saw heels with purpose, flats with attitude, and bags that practically flirted from across the room.

“Timeless yet fresh,” a beaming Laura told guests – and she was right. This was fashion for women who knew themselves, owned their style, and wanted to look fabulous while doing it.

Shop the full collection at walkinwardrobeonline.ie/collections/love-laura-xo.

Because style this good deserved a standing ovation.

Nuala Meenehan, Laura Kearney and Caoimhe McGinley

Miss Ireland Caoimhe Kenny and former Miss Ireland Amanda Brunker

India Sasha and Gemma Mailey

Lorraine Keane Denise Phillips 55

Eden magic!

Eden Beauty has recently opened its third location at Rushmere Shopping Centre, conveniently situated in the underground car park for easy access. Designed to accommodate both appointments and walk-in clients, the new space offers a wide range of beauty services including nails, makeup, massage and skin treatments, alongside a carefully curated retail selection.

The Rushmere salon has been created with a modern, express feel to suit busy lifestyles and shopping visits. In the coming weeks, the offering will expand further with the opening of a dedicated blow dry bar within the space.

Eden Beauty Rushmere, UC1, 4 Central Way, Craigavon BT64 1AA Tel: 07514 247106

56

MANDYBARR

Fashi ons

+447368175176

uki nfo@frankl yman. com

Ulster Tatler speaks to Roslyn, from Roslyn Aesthetic + Laser, about why she loves using the skincare brand, Genosys. Roslyn recently won Nurse Practitioner of the year at the CMA Awards.

KEEPING UP WITH THE K-BEAUTY SKINCARE TREND 58

1. What inspired you to work with Genosys, and what is it that you love most about the brand?

In 2024, I travelled to Korea for a global conference focused on aesthetic treatments and skincare. I had previously assumed the K-beauty movement was just a passing trend, but upon arriving in Seoul, I was amazed by the level of innovation, technology and results showcased by various brands. Although I was already working with medical Korean treatment brands, I was keen to find a retail brand with broad consumer appeal. After extensive research, I discovered Genosys — a Koreanmade brand with numerous patented ingredients developed by its own inhouse research team. I am particularly impressed with the new PDRN Bio Meso treatments and the results they deliver, as well as the wide range of peptides and growth factors within the formulations. The ingredients are gentle, yet highly effective.

2. Genosys is a South Korean skincare brand, which has really taken off globally. What do you think excites clients the most about Korean skincare?

My clients are experiencing excellent skin results without harsh ingredients or downtime. They particularly love the deep hydration that achieves the sought-after “Korean glass skin” look.

The results speak for themselves.

3. You see a wide range of skin concerns in the industry, from acne and sensitivity to dehydration and aging. Does the Genosys’ collection offer products that target each of these skin concerns?

Yes, I got great results foraging aging, dry winter skin, sensitised skin and I have seen some nice reductions in inflammatory skin conditions. Genosys offers a full range of skincare for all skin types.

4. Are there any hero products within Genosys that you always find yourself recommending? Why those in particular?

Yes, I could name half the range, but my clients are particularly obsessed with the moisture-replenishing Hyaluron Serum. It features 11 different types of cross-linked hyaluronic acid and an antiinflammatory mushroom complex — all for just £46. They’re also loving the AntiWrinkle Serum, which combines six antiaging peptides, niacinamide to even skin tone, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and bakuchiol, a gentle alternative to retinol that delivers similar results without irritation (£46).

I’m also a fan of the Skin Caring Balm, which provides excellent coverage, SPF 50 protection, nine anti-aging peptides, and a trademarked ingredient called Volufiline that plumps and hydrates. This product is only £55 and even comes with a full-size refill.

5. Genosys’ philosophy centres around skin health, maintaining a healthy barrier while effectively treating concerns. Is this an approach you prioritise when creating routines for your clients? If so, why?

Yes, I don’t believe in giving my clients harsh ingredients that can compromise their skin barrier. Everyone deserves healthy, radiant skin without irritation.

Achieving results without causing irritation makes it far easier for clients to stick with their skincare routine.

6. There is a an online trend suggesting a 12-step skincare routine, is this necessary to achieve real results?

No, absolutely not. I prefer to consult with each client individually and provide them with a simple, effective routine.

Starting with a cleanser, followed by a serum, moisturizer, and SPF year-round can make a noticeable difference in the skin. Using our SkinScan machine, we’ve been able to track visible improvements in just 12 weeks when clients follow an effective skincare regimen.

7. With the rise of advanced in-clinic treatments like peels, microneedling, bio-needling and lasers, can Genosys products be incorporated into preand post-treatment routines?

Absolutely. We recommend that clients follow a consistent skincare routine for at least four weeks before undergoing any of our advanced treatments — including Exion microneedling, LaseMD Ultra, microneedling, chemical peels, or IPL — to help strengthen the skin barrier.

Genosys offers an excellent range of post-treatment products, including the Intensive Post-Repair Cream and a variety of SPFs. Their algae masks, PDRN masks, and peptide gel masks are also fantastic for reducing inflammation, minimizing downtime, and enhancing treatment results.

“Everyone deserves healthy, radiant skin without irritation. Achieving results without causing irritation makes it far easier for clients to stick with their skincare routine.”

8. Bio-microneedling has been generating a lot of buzz lately. What do you think makes this treatment so appealing to clients? Why should they consider booking the latest Genosys Bio-Meso PDRN treatment?

It addresses a wide range of skin concerns, including uneven tone, pigmentation, texture, hydration, and fine lines or wrinkles. The treatment is quick, effective, and long-lasting — with no need for anaesthetic.

9. Can you share a success story or results you’ve achieved from using Genosys in your treatments or skincare routines?

I had a client with severe redness, sensitivity, and a compromised skin barrier. Her skin had been reactive to almost every product we had tried previously. We introduced the Intensive Hydro Soothing Cream and the Skin Rescue Overnight Mask. After just one week, her redness and inflammation had nearly disappeared and the frequent flare-ups she usually experienced are now under control.

405 ANTRIM ROAD, BELFAST E: ROSLYNMCCREA@GMAIL.COM @ROSLYNSKINCLINIC WWW.ROSLYN.CLINIC 59

Roslyn’s top picks:

Anti-Wrinkle Serum,

£46

Moisture-replenishing Hyaluron Serum,

£48

Skin Caring Balm,

£55

WWW. GENOSYS.IE

Rosey Grant, Abbie Pottinger, Rebekah O’Neill, Robyn McCullagh and Telisha Hutton

Abbie Pottinger, Clare Doran, Jayne Montague and Orla Cunningham

Sarah Farrell and Chloe Murray

Pamela Ferguson and Rosey Grant

Karen Gribbon, Kathy Keating, Joan Erwin and Clodagh Shortt

BELFAST SKIN CLINIC LASER AND AESTHETICS EVENING Ulster Tatler 2025 Aesthetic Clinic of the year, Belfast Skin Clinic, was delighted to host a recent Laser and Aesthetics Information Evening. Guests were introduced to the highly skilled team of laser, injectables and facialist specialists who work at Belfast Skin Clinic.

The laser and non-surgical aesthetics team includes consultant plastic surgeon Mr Jeremy Bond, speciality doctor in plastic surgery Ms Michelle Gibson, speciality doctor in dermatology Dr Alaa Sakr, laser nurse supervisor Liese Merry, laser therapist Robyn McCullagh, and skin therapists Pamela Ferguson and Anna Lewandowska, supported by Susan Houston and Sandra Hickey.

Belfast Skin Clinic showcased skin treatments including the new revolutionary AviClear laser for treatment of acne, polynucleotide injections, and combined microneedling, radiofrequency and CO2 laser. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) for facial rejuvenation and hair regeneration was also demonstrated. Other laser treatments discussed included CO2 laser for scar revision, SplendorX for hair removal and vascular lesion treatment. ZO Skin Health advice was available for those wishing for topical skin care options. Guests were offered exclusive promotions on the night and provided with generous gift bags containing complimentary products and vouchers.

60

The answer is AviClear

The advanced acne solution belfastskinclinic.com

Flexible financing available

All Skin Types 3 Easy treatments Long-Lasting Results

ADVERTORIAL

Taking Control Of Your Fertility This Year At Thérapie Fertility, Ireland’s Most Affordable IVF Clinic.

limited options for those seeking private treatment.

Fertility Treatment Closer To Home One aspect of fertility treatment ,that people generally don’t consider, is the time commitment of undergoing IVF. Going through fertility treatment is not only expensive, but the time it takes to physically attend appointments means that many people simply cannot afford or commit to it. Thérapie Fertility have tried to offset both the cost and time needed for those based in Northern Ireland to undergo an IVF cycle, both through their lower prices and their satellite clinics in Belfast and Dundalk.

Why Attend A Satellite Clinic?

A satellite clinic, to put it simply, allows you to undergo the majority of treatment closer to home. Anyone who has been through fertility treatment knows that there are many appointments, especially when in a cycle, that are short but freuquent. Being able to have quick scans or blood appointments closer to home makes a huge difference! It allows for minimal disruption to your daily life and means that you may only have to travel further from home for a couple appointments.

How Many Times Will I Need To Travel?

2026 - A Year Of Possibility

Who is Thérapie Fertility?

For those going through infertility or who are struggling to conceive, the New Year can bring hope and possibility. It’s a great time to look at your options with a fresh perspective and to plan for the year ahead. A great first step, if you don’t know where to start, is to book in for some fertility testing which may give you a much clearer idea of what course of action you can take, whether that’s some simple lifestyle changes or indeed if you may need to consider fertility treatments such as IVF. Baseline fertility testing is generally in the region of £100 to £400 and is a wonderful first step for anyone looking for more information on their fertility potential.

Thérapie Fertility is Ireland’s Most Affordable IVF Clinic, with dedicated satellite clinics across the country, including in Belfast and Dundalk.

They first opened in Dublin in 2021, with a simple mission: making fertility treatment in Ireland more accessible and affordable for those who need it.

One of the ways the team are achieving this is through their nationwide satellite clinics, allowing people to access fertility services closer to home.

It’s no secret that the options, when it comes to fertility care in the Northern Ireland, are severely lacking. The waiting lists and criteria to access public funding are crippling and there are

Many people based in Northern Ireland often ask us, “How many times will I actually have to travel to Dublin?” The answer really depends on the type of treatment you are going through, but for most people you will need to attend the Dublin clinic for one appointment prior to beginning a cycle, as well as the day of egg collection and embryo transfer. All other appointments can be carried out at a satellite clinic closest to you, whether that’s Belfast or Dundalk.

At Thérapie Fertility, we believe that patients should have a full and clear understanding of the logistics of having treatment with us, before they ever start, and the team will clearly lay out what your cycle will entail.

For more information or to book your free fertility nurse consultation, please visit: www.therapiefertility.com

Free Nurse Consultation No Waiting Lists IVF for £3,995 Excellent Success Rates Payment Plans Available

36-40 Ann St, Belfast, BT14EG, United Kingdom - info@therapiefertility.com

62

Book A Free Consultation

ADVERTORIAL

“IT HAS BEEN SO WONDERFUL TO EXTEND AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE FERTILITY TREATMENT TO PATIENTS FROM NORTHERN IRELAND.” Amy Murphy

Fertility; our journey Belfast-based couple Clare + Carolyn share their journey to parenthood with Thérapie Fertility through Reciprocal IVF Starting Our Family We’re Clare and Carolyn and we’re from Belfast. We met seven years ago, and one of the very first questions after we met was if we wanted to have kids, and we both did. We just didn’t really know how the journey would work, being a same sex couple and what options we’d have.

Discovering Thérapie Fertility We attended another clinic in Belfast first and after a failed cycle of IUI, there was no sort of support. Then we checked the south of Ireland and saw Thérapie Fertility on Google. The free consultation looked great, so we booked our initial phone call. The consultation was just brilliant, and we came away clear on what we wanted to do.

Reciprocal IVF We had never heard of Reciprocal IVF before going to Thérapie Fertility and

when they told us about it at the free consultation, we were so excited. One of us had always wanted to carry a pregnancy, and doing Reciprocal IVF meant that both of us could be physically involved in the process of bringing our child into the world. It just really suited us!

The IVF Process I think we cried for about three days when the first transfer didn’t work. It’s probably one of the hardest things I think that you go through because you do feel like your body’s failing and that it’s your fault. But we carried on with the second transfer and were lucky enough that it worked and now we have our little girl, Annie.

Advice for Couples Considering IVF in Northern Ireland For people in the north looking for fertility options, the Thérapie Fertility satellite clinics are amazing. It’s hard,

especially when you’re working and if you have other family commitments to have to travel all the time... so this makes everything easier. Just do the free consultation, you have nothing to lose! They’ll go through all the options.

It doesn’t cost you anything and you can just see. That’s what started our process and led to our daughter.

There are honestly no words to thank the team at Thérapie Fertility. They’re forever special. We just felt like a normal couple, and everyone treated us so well. They were genuinely happy for us when we had our daughter. They’re just the most amazing and special people. Every single one of them has contributed to giving us this little wriggly bundle of joy.

Free Nurse Consultation No Waiting Lists IVF for £3,995 Excellent Success Rates Payment Plans Available

36-40 Ann St, Belfast, BT14EG, United Kingdom - info@therapiefertility.com

63

Book A Free Consultation

COLUMN January 2026

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

Rebecca is founder and director of physiotherapy at Apex Clinic and Apex Headache Clinic.

BY

REBECCA NELSON

Say Goodbye to Your Headaches and Migraines For Good This New Year Are you living with recurring headaches or migraines? Make it your New Year’s Resolution to take the headache out of 2026. This month, Apex Headache clinic founder and spinal & headache physiotherapy specialist, Rebecca Nelson, shares her expert advice for a headache-free 2026.

January sparks the start of a brand-new year, but for some, the thought of another year plagued with headaches or migraines is devastating.

Headaches and migraines can destroy the quality of your life At Apex Headache Clinic, for over 25 years, patients have been travelling from all over Ireland, the UK, Europe and further afield to avail of our specialist treatment which isn’t available in any other clinic at this time. We witness on a daily basis just how devastating the effects that headaches or migraines can have on lives, leaving sufferers desperate to find some relief.

Most people attribute tension or stress as the cause of their headaches, and so they reach for painkillers, which provide no longterm relief. However, usually there is actually a physical cause for their headaches or migraines and so without treating the source, their headaches will continue, in many cases, for years or a lifetime.

Many people are unaware that headaches and migraines are triggered from the upper neck region of the spine, even when the person may not experience any neck pain at all. The upper neck area of the spine could have been overloaded or injured by poor posture from hours spent hunched over desks, from repeated heavy lifting, or a previous accident.

Painkillers are not the cure At Apex Headache Clinic, we adopt a very

clear stance when it comes to pain: the cure for pain isn’t painkillers. We firmly believe in tackling pain at its source. Getting to the actual root of the problem will reduce the need for pain medication, which only ever masks the pain, often with terrible side effects.

Here at Apex Headache Clinic, our team of specially trained headache physiotherapy specialists have been successfully treating headache and migraine sufferers for years.

We are very proud of our high success rates in curing or significantly reducing persistent, longstanding migraines and headaches, using The Nelson Headache Approach™.

This is my own unique regime of manual physiotherapy treatment to the neck region of the spine, which is evidence based. We use this technique to help sufferers of all ages, including young children from 5 years old through to the very elderly.

Headache Clinic for specialist physiotherapy treatment.”

Don’t suffer in silence If you suffer from persistent headaches or migraines, help is at hand. Book an initial assessment and treatment today at Apex Headache Clinic and allow our specialist physiotherapists to restore the quality of your life.

To book an appointment, call Apex Headache Clinic on: 028 9048 4153.

Whilst we receive many referrals from consultant neurologists, paediatricians and GPs, patients can refer themselves.

Getting clear of headaches and migraines can be life changing Caroline Woods, from Ballyward Co. Down, had been suffering with migraines as long as she could remember. After treatment for her headaches and migraines, Caroline said, “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 anymore. 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. I would definitely tell anyone suffering with migraines to attend Apex

apex clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

chiropody

apex clinic

massage

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

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 64

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

January 2026

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

I Am Now Completely Migraine Free!

24-year-old Megan Johnston, from Portadown, had been suffering with migraines for 14 years, which was having a massive impact on her life. 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™, which isn’t available at any other clinic in the UK, cleared her migraines, meaning that she could finally start to enjoy life again. medications to take to try take the edge off my pain.

How did the pain affect your life?

I could count on one hand how many days I actually felt well, I was in constant pain 24/7. The migraines were always there in the background but I just had to try get on with life. The medication that I was prescribed would help me to do this by dulling the pain but then after a period of time the medication would stop working and I would have to increase the dose or be prescribed something else to try to get on top of the pain once more. This was a terrible cycle that kept repeating over the years.

What led you to Apex Headache Clinic?

Someone had suggested I try Apex Headache Clinic and I thought why not, anything is worth a try! I had never heard of Apex Headache Clinic before this but I had tried absolutely everything up to that point and was willing to give it a go.

How has Apex Headache Clinic changed your life?

I am now completely migraine free and no longer taking any medication at all! I almost don’t believe it because I have suffered with migraines for what felt like my whole life, it feels fantastic to be well again and not in constant pain!

What advice would you offer someone suffering from migraines?

I would say go to Apex Headache Clinic as it was definitely worth it for me, with the fantastic results that I achieved with their specialist physio treatment for headaches! It is an investment in your health.

To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153.

Megan, tell us, when did your migraines begin?

My migraines began when I was around 10 years old. As a younger child I had stomach migraines which then progressed into my head as I got older. I attended my GP on and off and was referred to neurology. The only treatment they could give me was different

apex clinic

physiotherapy

No GP referral is necessary.

podiatry

chiropody

apex clinic

massage

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

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 65

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

The Belfast

Rheumatology Clinic

If you have pain or stiffness in the joints, tendons or muscles it can be due to many different rheumatic conditions ranging from those that are mild and self-limiting to more serious inflammatory or autoimmune disorders. The earlier these conditions are diagnosed and treated the better the long term outcome.

Dr Andrew Cairns

Dr Andrew Cairns, Dr Adrian Pendleton and Dr Gary Wright.

The Belfast Rheumatology Clinic has been established by a partnership of three Northern Ireland Consultant Rheumatologists, Dr Andrew Cairns, Dr Adrian Pendleton and Dr Gary Wright.

Dr Adrian Pendleton

It is the first clinic in Northern Ireland dedicated solely to the investigation, diagnosis and management of patients with musculoskeletal conditions, arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

The driving principle of The Belfast Rheumatology Clinic is to provide a centre of excellence for the diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic disorders.

Dr Gary Wright

For appointments contact: The Belfast Rheumatology Clinic l Medical Associates l 25 Derryvolgie Avenue l Belfast l BT9 6FN 028 9038 2202 l www.thebelfastrheumatologyclinic.co.uk l secretary@medical-associates.co.uk

®

Society

in association with

Photography by: Steven Hanna Photo & Film.

Est. 1895

PROUD SPONSOR OF

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD

98-100 Church Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT43 6DF 02825 652810 • www.caldwellsjewellers.co.uk

Society

Page 72 Kings Tailor Page 73 TravelMax, Honeymoons

78

Page 88 Roe Valley Resort

Page 70 Galgorm

... Plus society wedding photographs throughout

Page 74 Four Seasons Page 77 Cityman Menswear Page 78 Ballyness Resort Page 81 Culloden Hotel Page 82 Slieve Donard

86

Page 85 Cliff at Lyons Page 87 Ten Square

To advertise contact Julie Patterson on: j.patterson@ulstertatler.com or call 028 9066 3311 This supplement can also be viewed online at: www.ulstertatler.com

ULSTER TATLER ISSN 0049 5107 Unit 26, The Workshop, Ormeau Business Park in the Gasworks, Belfast BT7 2JA Phone: 028 9066 3311 Web: ulstertatler.com Email: accounts@ulstertatler.com

Est. 1961

Keep In Touch with Ulster Tatler At:

THE WORKSHOP

69

74

Ste v e Ph ot n Ha n na og ra phy

Gorgeous Photography

s B ar ne Mar k g rap hy Photo

ICONIC WEDDING DESTINATIONS If you have always dreamed of a lavish wedding that embodies classical elegance, a laid-back affair oozing bohemian spirit, or if a city-chic backdrop is more your vibe, Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland’s premier group of wedding venues, offers luxury settings to suit every style and taste. galgormcollection.com/wedding-destinations

Alexandra Barfoot Photography

ce & G ra Adamography Ph ot

A le

xan d Phora Bar to g f o ot rap hy

THE ENCHANTING RESORT WEDDING The Setting, The Service, The Support. Galgorm offers a venue like no other with a team of Wedding Planners dedicated to ensuring your day is as unique as your love story. Synonymous with elegance and grandeur, Galgorm Resort’s beautiful setting lending itself to becoming your dream wedding location. Couples can choose from three ceremony settings and three reception suites - the Great Hall, Renaissance Suite and Four Seasons Suite, along with luxury accommodation and the renowned Thermal Spa Village for pre or post celebration relaxation.

T ena phy S h e to g r a o Ph

THE QUIRKY WEDDING The Loft at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic wedding venues, offering a stylish, alternative space with a One Wedding A Day policy for 100-150 guests. This exclusive-use venue offers an environment of laid back luxury - think impactful and stylish décor with ethereal charm, large statement marble dining tables, candles, candelabras, showstopping chandeliers and grand fireplace.

A lexa Ph oto n dr a B a r graph foot y

THE CITY WEDDING Sleek and refined, Parisien Belfast sets the stage for a contemporary, city-chic celebration. Big on style and opulent décor, with the dramatic backdrop of Belfast City Hall, this historic Victorian building features elegant carved woods, vibrant contrasts, French flair and impeccable service, perfect for a modern take on timeless style.

THE REGENCY WEDDING Tie the knot with Roe Valley as your backdrop. Roe Valley in Co. Derry is one of Northern Ireland’s most desirable wedding destinations.

Exclusively yours with a one wedding per day policy, couples can exchange vows in the charming outdoor gazebo, perfect for ceremonies or scenic drinks reception. Setting the scene for your dream regencyinspired celebrations, the Roe Valley Lounge welcomes over 300 guests for a drinks reception before moving into the beautiful Roe Valley Suite.

Arriving in Autumn is a luxurious orangery ceremony space offering an elegant, light-filled setting surrounded by a walled garden.

ot B ar fo n dra A lexaography Ph ot

THE INTIMATE WEDDING Steeped in history, The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn offers an intimate setting for up to 50 guests. Dating back to 1614 and set beside tranquil countryside and Crawfordsburn Country Park, it captures the romance of a traditional wedding, with couples choosing between the charming C.S. Lewis Suite or the elegant Gallery for a celebration tailored to them.

G or g Photoeous g raph y

TRANSFORMING DRESSES, INSPIRING CONFIDENCE EXPERT ADVICE FROM NORTHERN IRELAND’S BRIDAL ALTERATION SPECIALISTS. “Nothing is too much trouble — they just want you to be happy.”

BRIDE REVIEW WHEN SHOULD BRIDES BOOK? The team now books first fittings around five months before the wedding. Most dresses need two to three fittings, with the final appointment taking place just weeks before the big day. The aim is to keep the process smooth and avoid unnecessary try-ons — by the end, the dress should feel like it was made just for you.

Ramie Kuskyte

Recently nominated for the Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2026, Kings Tailor has become a trusted name for bridal alterations across the local area.

Known for their experience, care, and attention to detail, the team works behind the scenes helping brides feel confident and comfortable on their wedding day.

“Even the most complex dresses can be transformed.”

A PROUD MOMENT FOR THE TEAM: Being nominated for the Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2026 has been a huge honour. The team credits their brides for the support, kind words, and votes that keep them motivated every day.

“We’re a small team with big heart – your support keeps us going.”

WHAT IF A BRIDE SUDDENLY ISN’T SURE ABOUT HER DRESS? It happens more often than people think. Nerves, timing, or a dress that doesn’t quite sit right can all cause doubt. Once the gown is tailored to suit the bride’s figure, confidence usually returns — and many brides fall in love with their dress all over again.

“I struggled with body confidence, but by the final fitting I felt amazing.”

BRIDE REVIEW Bride and Groom: Katie and Gareth Whitcombe Photographer: Bradley Henderson

“Honoured, grateful, and inspired by our brides.”

WHAT REALLY HAPPENS AT A FITTING? Brides often arrive feeling nervous — and that’s completely normal. Kings Tailor is a very busy studio, so fittings are focused and well organised, but every bride still receives the attention she needs. The team listens carefully, offers reassurance, and often notices small details that brides don’t spot themselves — details that can completely change how a dress feels and looks.

About Kings Tailor Kings Tailor is an award-winning Northern Ireland bridal alterations studio trusted for its refined craftsmanship and approachable, bride-focused service.to With years of experience and a highly trained eye for fit, the team shapes each gown flawlessly to the bride’s silhouette, ensuring comfort, confidence, and effortless beauty.

Contact Kings Tailor Studio Address: 75 Frances Street, Newtownards, BT23 7DX Phone: 028 9031 3783 Website: www.tailorbelfast.co.uk Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 10am – 5pm Saturday 10am-4pm Kings Tailor – Award-winning bridal alterations and bespoke gowns, helping every bride feel confident, comfortable, and radiant on her wedding day.

DO YOU HANDLE COMPLEX ALTERATIONS? Yes — and this is where Kings Tailor truly stands out. Some gowns need significant reshaping or reconstruction rather than simple alterations. With highly skilled seamstresses, years of textile manufacturing experience, and specialist machinery for delicate fabrics, the team can handle complex work while maintaining a high-quality finish.

Society

Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club, Monaghan: Love in every season Weddings are a celebration of love, unity, and the start of an exciting new chapter. For couples planning to tie the knot, now is the perfect time to secure your dream wedding with an exclusive offer that makes your special day even more memorable.

With luxurious amenities, stunning surroundings, and personalised service, the Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club, is the perfect choice for your dream wedding day! Located in the charming town of Monaghan, the Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club has been celebrating love and marriage since 1970. This prestigious four-star establishment is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities, making it the perfect venue for your dream wedding celebration. As a family-run hotel, they are dedicated to providing you and your guests with an unforgettable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the charm of Monaghan and Ireland’s Ancient East.

The hotel allows the option to move in the night before your wedding with your wedding party. Granting you the opportunity to start your celebrations as soon as possible and create a sense of anticipation and excitement. The elegant Sakura Suite serves as the ideal backdrop for your ceremony, with its romantic pastel tones and opulent wall panelling. This versatile space allows you to infuse your own personal touches, making your special day truly unique and memorable.

To ensure a warm Irish welcome for your guests, they will be greeted in the private pre-reception Limewood Suite with refreshing drinks and delectable snacks. They can then relax on plush crushed velvet sofas, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

When it’s time for your wedding feast, the talented chefs will prepare a mouthwatering meal using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This will be accompanied by fine wine and served in the beautifully refurbished Seasons Suite, which can accommodate parties of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations of up to 350 guests.

The hotel also boasts stunning grounds with mature and intimate gardens, providing picturesque locations for capturing your precious wedding moments. These gardens also offer the perfect opportunity to bask in the sun’s rays, should the weather be on your side!

To help prolong the celebrations, wedding couples will receive a discounted rate for a selection of comfortable guest rooms. As an added bonus, the wedding couple will also have complimentary access to the Superior Suite and two additional guest rooms. All accommodation includes full access to the award-winning Leisure Club and a wholesome full Irish breakfast.

Beyond the stunning aesthetics, the team takes care of the finer details, from exquisite menus crafted by top chefs to impeccable service from dedicated staff. Every aspect of the wedding is carefully coordinated and executed, leaving the couple and their loved ones to simply relax and enjoy the momentous occasion.

To make your wedding planning even sweeter, on offer is an exclusive 10% discount on all new wedding bookings for dates within the next 10-months. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start planning, this is your sign to say ‘Yes!’ to a beautiful wedding. Because

the hotel believes that every love story deserves a grand celebration, they want to make sure that you and your closest loved ones experience a truly unforgettable dining experience on your big day.

Priding themselves on offering exclusivity, ensuring that only one wedding per day is hosted. This means that your wedding will receive their full attention, care, and dedication, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment without distractions.

The team’s dedication and attention to detail have earned them a reputation as one of the leading wedding venues in the industry, with countless happy couples and their guests raving about their experience. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating unforgettable memories, the team continues to exceed expectations and set the standard for lavish weddings; Reflected by the awards accredited to the team and venue. Whether it’s a classic and elegant affair or a modern and chic celebration, the team will go above and beyond to make every couple’s dream wedding a reality.

So, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional wedding experience, look no further than the iconic Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club, Monaghan, and its dedicated team of professionals. They will not only meet but exceed your expectations, making your special day a truly unforgettable one.

Secure your wedding today and take advantage of these limited time offers available. Contact a member of the wedding team today on weddings@4seasonshotel.ie or +353 (0)47 81 888 to arrange your private or virtual viewing.

Visit the website today: www.4seasonshotel.ie

74

Love in Every Season...

WEDDING VIEWINGS AV AVA VAILABLE 7-DAY AYS AY YS A WEEKW K ITH THE KW FOUR SEASONS HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB, MONAGHAN Elegant Ceremonies | Private Pre-Reception Suite | Opulent Draped Banqueting Suite Luxurious Honeymoon Suite | Complimentary Bar Extension | Stunning Picture Opportunities One Wedding Per Day Guarantee

To find out more or to reserve your appointment contact: weddings@4seasonshotel.ie Photo credit: Noah James Photography & Film

Cullen & Moorhead Miss Shauna Cullen, daughter of Siobhan and Paul Cullen, from Ballinamore recently married Nicolas Moorhead, son of Caroline and Colin Moorhead from Killinchy. The wedding took place on 18th October 2025 at St Patrick’s Church in Ballinamore, followed by a reception at Lough Erne Resort. Shauna wore a beautiful dress from Verona Bridal, while Nicolas wore a suit from Bogart Menswear.

Photography by: Alexandra Barfoot

76

Society

Introducing Ireland’s most exciting new wedding destination, Ballyness Resort Introducing Ireland’s most exciting new wedding destination, Ballyness Resort.

Nestled within the breathtakingly scenic landscape of the Sperrin Mountains on a 150-acre private farm, yet easily accessible from Belfast and beyond, this exclusiveuse wedding venue offers the perfect backdrop to your day.

You will be the sole focus of the team’s attention on your wedding day, allowing you to relax in the company of your invited guests.

The Resort offers a number of unique interconnected spaces for your arrival drinks, reception, evening party and pre- & post-wedding celebrations.

Guests arrive to the Stables Bar, a warm and atmospheric space with high and low seating and rustic features that give a nod to the beautiful horses that roam in the venue’s adjacent fields.

The Stables Bar opens into the Courtyard Cocktail Bar, a gorgeous space for your guests to mingle during your drinks reception. It has a clear ceiling adorned with lush flower baskets, giving a bright, outdoor feel regardless of the weather; a truly special space that will wow your guests and set the tone for this important day.

The Barn is the main event: floor-to-ceiling glass windows frame the most incredible mountain and country views that will most certainly impress. Rustic and romantic is the vibe, with high ceilings and exposed beams, a feature bar and wine wall, and beautifully dressed light fixtures to add some drama. You will have a choice of expertly crafted long wooden tables to give a banquet feel or classic rounds adorned with sage green runners, gold candelabras and pillar vases to create a wonderfully romantic candlelit tablescape. This space perfectly transforms into an evening party venue that will definitely enhance the party vibes, with ample space for dancing and starlit mountain views.

A new standalone ceremony space within the grounds is also in development, capturing the stunning views of Benbradagh Mountain; a picture-perfect setting for your vows. This will complement the existing outdoor ceremony space located in the heart of the grounds.

These are spaces that have been designed to create impact both on the day and as the backdrop for your photographs.

Ballyness works exclusively with the amazing team at Arbutus Wedding Caterers to offer flexible menu options to suit the style you envision for your day. From laidback BBQ and buffet options, traditional sit-down wedding meals to opulent banquets, with additional options for global cuisines, we will ensure all dietary requirements are accommodated for.

Ballyness also offers an eclectic collection of stylish, quirky and romantic wedding accommodation for you and your guests. From the ultra-luxe Penthouse for the wedding couple to enjoy to the Farmhouse, ideal for family as a really cosy home from home, to the fabulous Sheperd’s Hut, each with their own hot-tub.

The team at Ballyness genuinely care about ensuring you have the perfect wedding day. They are highly experienced and are there to offer friendly advice, providing ideas and inspiration to make your day uniquely yours. They will be on hand from the initial enquiry all the way through to waving you off as you depart for home, happily married and with memories to last a lifetime.

Book your viewing today with one of Ballyness’s dedicated planners, so you can discover for yourself what a truly special venue this is.

Book your viewing today with one of Ballyness’s dedicated Planners so you can discover for yourself what a truly special venue this is.

78

t. +44 (0)28 7200 2093 | e. weddings@ballynessresort.com

ballynessresort.com Images by

Society

Kelly & Woods Miss Rachael Kelly, daughter of Rae and Roy Kelly, from Castlecaulfield, recently married Gerard Woods, son of Kellie Anne Quinn and Noel Woods, from Coalisland. The wedding took place on 27th September 2025 at Belfast City Hall. Rachael wore a dress and veil from Serendipity Bridal Boutique with shoes from Steve Madden, while Gerard wore a suit from Freddie Hatchet.

Photography by: Alexandra Barfoot

80

say

FOREVER

in style

CULLODENESTATEANDSPA.COM

Society

Slieve Donard: Where Romance Meets the Mournes Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, Slieve Donard offers a setting so striking, it feels made for weddings.

This iconic hotel has long been a destination for unforgettable celebrations, and with recent renovations and a renewed focus on bespoke weddings, it’s now more magical than ever.

Positioned beside the world-renowned Royal County Down Golf Club and nestled at the foot of the Mournes, Slieve Donard combines natural beauty with historic charm. Inside, five distinctive event spaces provide the perfect backdrop for weddings of every style and scale - from the grandeur of the Grand Ballroom, which can host up to 400 guests, to the intimacy of the Annesley Room or Drawing Room for smaller, heartfelt gatherings.

The Chandelier Room, with panoramic mountain and sea views, is a standout choice for both ceremonies and receptions, while the Brunel Lounge offers a more relaxed vibe with its own bar and access to the front lawns.

What truly sets Slieve Donard apart is the personalised service.

The dedicated wedding team works hand-in-hand with each couple to create a day that reflects their vision, whether planning from near or far. Virtual appointments, tailored packages, and a network of trusted local suppliers make the planning process seamless.

Pre-wedding, couples and guests can unwind in the hotel’s luxury spa, indulge in a celebratory afternoon tea, or enjoy a round of golf nearby. On the day itself, every detail is handled with care, from red carpet arrivals and champagne toasts to beautifully dressed tables and late-night dancing.

As the celebration winds down, guests can retire to stylishly renovated rooms with sweeping views and the soothing sound of the sea.

For couples beginning their journey, the hotel’s upcoming Wedding Open Day on 18 January offers the perfect chance to explore it all in person. Wander through each event space, meet the expert team, chat with recommended suppliers and get a real sense of how your day could unfold. It’s an ideal opportunity to gather inspiration, ask questions and take those exciting first steps toward planning your celebration.

For timeless elegance and spectacular surroundings, Slieve Donard remains one of Northern Ireland’s most beloved wedding venues – where every love story begins with a breathtaking view.

Image credit: Andrew McKenna.

For more information visit: www.marineandlawn.com/slievedonard 82

Where

Unforgettable Is Made

marineandlawn.com/weddings

Society

Bain & Pearson Miss Caitlin Bain, daughter of Fergus and Karen Bain, from Dungannon, recently married Sam Pearson, son of Michael Pearson and Sharon Cox, from Cimla, South Wales. The wedding took place at the Old Rectory, Killyman on 24th August 2025. Caitlin wore a stunning gown from The Vow in Moy with a veil from Britten Weddings, while Sam wore a suit from Tom Morrows.

Photography by: Alexandra Barfoot

84

YOUR FAIRYTALE AWAITS YOUR AWAITS Just3030minutes minutesfrom fromDublin, Dublin,this thisstorybook storybook estate estate on 16 enchanting Just enchanting acres acresruns runsalong alongthe theGrand GrandCanal.

Canal.

Steepedininromance, romance,with withcharming charming venues, venues, elegant accommodation, Steeped accommodation,and andexquisite exquisitedining, dining,ititisisthe the perfect place to commence your next chapter with memories that last a lifetime. perfect place to commence your next with memories that last a lifetime.

BEGIN YOUR YOUR LYONS LYONS TALE: BEGIN TALE: +353 1 630 3500 | events@cliffatlyons.ie +353 1 630 3500 | events@cliffatlyons.ie || www.cliffatlyons.ie www.cliffatlyons.ie Lyons Road, Celbridge, Kildare, Ireland, Lyons Road, Celbridge, Kildare, Ireland, W23F8KP W23F8KP

Society

Patton & Kirkwood Miss Georgina Patton, daughter of Violet Patton and the late Matthew Patton, from Lisburn, recently married Robert Kirkwood, son of Carole and Maurice Kirkwood. The wedding took place on 27th September 2025 at Altahammond Wedding Barn. Georgina wore a Mikado off-the-shoulder gown with detachable train from Perfect Day, Lurgan, along with a Richard Designs single-tier, scattered pearl veil, from Emily Edith Bridal. Hair was by Megan Donaldson and make-up by Michelle Cairns. Robert wore a suit from Freddie Hatchet.

Photography by: Jervis Wedding Photography

86

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST RATES

www.tensquare.co.uk | reservations@tensquare.co.uk | 028 9024 1001 10 Donegall Square South, Belfast, BT1 5JD

E XC LU S I V E LY YO U R S roevalleyresort.com 028 7772 2222 | 10 Lisnakilly Road, Limavady, BT49 9FB

Ulster Tatler’s essential guide to help you make the best post primary choice for your child.

LIST OF SCHOOLS INSIDE: Dundalk Grammar / Campbell College / Banbridge Academy / Sullivan Upper / Lagan College / Breda Academy / Clongowes Wood College / Sperrin Integrated /

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS

TAKING THE NEXT STEP

Moving on from primary school to secondary education can be daunting for both children and parents. Ulster Tatler’s PostPrimary School Guide has been designed to give you a helping hand. Throughout this feature, we explore the best the province has to offer in a range of different schools, including secondary, grammar, integrated and boarding schools. With many of the post-primary schools opening their doors to prospective applicants in the new year, you will have the opportunity to take a look around and speak to teaching staff.

Ulster Tatler’s David Millar pictured with Grosvenor Grammar Principal, Dr F Vasey, and Rosemary Rainey OBE, Board of Governors, at the Grosvenor Grammar Christmas Carol Service at St Anne’s Cathedral.

SAPERE AUDE

DUNDALK GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Co-educational Primary and Secondary School

● Established in 1739 Dundalk Grammar School has a long tradition of excellence in education ● Irish State Examinations at Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate (LC). 23 subjects are offered at LC Level ● Church of Ireland ethos and students from all traditions welcome ● First class accommodation offering 5-day boarding option in Secondary

● State-of-the-art facilities for teaching and learning ● Modern kitchen/dining rooms providing nutritious and balanced meals ● Sports facilities with floodlit pitches and tennis courts ● Multi-purpose hall for music, sport and drama ● 97% of our students progress to 3rd level education both in Ireland and abroad

+353 (0) 42 933 4459 admissions@dgs.ie www.dgs.ie @dgsdundalk PAGE 90

Join our 2026 Open Day Saturday 17th January 2026 9:00am – 12 noon Boarding Places Available

Discover more at CampbellCollege.co.uk

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

BANBRIDGE ACADEMY

Where Tradition Meets Excellence Nestled on a stunning 40-acre site in the heart of Banbridge, Banbridge Academy has been shaping futures since 1786.

Today, it stands as one of the UK’s leading schools, ranked in the top 10 schools in Northern Ireland and 64th in the UK in the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025, and celebrated for its commitment to “The pursuit of excellence in a caring and supportive community”.

At Banbridge Academy, every child is encouraged to Belong, Aspire, Achieve.

Pupils thrive in an environment where they are happy at school, known personally, and cared for individually. With over seventy clubs and societies, a vibrant House System, and a rich programme of educational trips - from Boston to Barcelona - students enjoy opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

Academic success remains a hallmark of the Academy. At GCSE level, an outstanding 99% of pupils achieved seven or more A*–C grades, including English and Mathematics, while at A Level almost 90% secured three A*–C grades, with an overall pass rate of 99.6%. These exceptional results enable our students to progress towards their chosen career path and to prestigious universities across the UK and beyond.

The past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. Six former pupils proudly represented their country at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the highest representation from any school in Ireland.

Over thirty-five students earned national or

international caps across fourteen sports, including hockey, swimming, badminton, and table tennis. The Boys’ Hockey 1st XI Team was crowned All-Ireland Schoolboy Champions for a record-equalling seventh time, while the Girls’ teams celebrated Ulster titles. Beyond sport, in recent years the Drama Society captivated audiences with a musical production of The Wizard of Oz, involving more than three hundred pupils in acting, lighting, and stage crew roles, whilst this year’s production of the play Little Women drew together actors, dancers and designers to produce a visually stunning show. Academic and leadership achievements were equally impressive, with pupils meeting Hilary Clinton at a global symposium, representing China at the British Council’s COP29 Schools’ Simulation, and winning prestigious awards such as the Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators from Oxford University. Charity remains at the heart of school life, with thousands raised for local and international causes, alongside record participation in the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Life at Banbridge Academy is enriched by an exceptional range of extracurricular activities.

Pupils can explore their interests through debating societies, drama clubs, engineering and medical societies, and initiatives such as Young Enterprise.

Music and the arts flourish through choirs, orchestras, and biannual stage productions, while sporting opportunities abound in rugby, hockey, football, netball, athletics, swimming, and more. For those with

OPEN NIGHT MONDAY 26TH JANUARY 2026

special interests, there are clubs dedicated to chess, Warhammer, skiing, and charity work. These activities foster leadership, teamwork, and lifelong friendships, ensuring every pupil finds their passion and develops skills that will serve them well beyond school.

Prospective pupils and parents are warmly invited to experience the Academy’s unique atmosphere at the upcoming Open Night on Monday 26 January 2026, from 7.00 to 9.30pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the school, meet our dedicated staff and students, and hear from our Principal Mr Robin McLoughlin OBE about what makes Banbridge Academy such a special place to learn and grow.

For more information, please visit www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk.

Banbridge Academy, Lurgan Road, Banbridge, BT32 4AQ Tel: 028 4062 3220 Email: info@banbridgeacademy.banbridge.ni.sch.uk PAGE 92

Sullivan UPPER SCHOOL

WHERE GREEN MEANS GROW. MORE THAN JUST A UNIFORM.

We pride ourselves on providing a NURTURING ENVIRONMENT focused on realising the UNIQUE POTENTIAL of every INDIVIDUAL student.

OPEN MORNING

SATURDAY 17th JANUARY, 2026 9:30 am - 12:30 pm THE GENTLE HAND FOREMOST. S U L L IVA N U PPE R .CO.U K

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

A SCHOOL FOR ALL CHILDREN AT LAGAN COLLEGE

RESPECT | SERVICE | EQUALITY | RECONCILIATION PAGE 94

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

LAGAN COLLEGE, BELFAST

NORTHERN IRELAND’S FUTURE Lagan College is Northern Ireland’s first planned Integrated school for young people aged 11-18. We are a caring, all ability and co-educational school for all children, irrespective of their diverse learning styles and attributes. With students from over fifty feeder primary schools spanning both city and countryside, we readily welcome young learners from all backgrounds and cultures.

Intentionally integrated, our school was founded by parents to be part of Northern Ireland’s historic peace journey. Our ethos centres around our four core values of respect, equality, reconciliation and service.

As a member of the Coventry Cathedral Cross of Nails Community, we collaborate with students and their families to embrace diversity in all its forms, including all faith traditions, and none. Our dedicated staff team, supported by our school Chaplains and external agencies, foster a nurturing and kind environment where self-esteem, independence and mutual respect can flourish.

Located in south Belfast, on a stunning National Trust site, our campus reflects our commitment to sustainability, having achieved seven Green Flag Awards. We are proud to be a Rights Respecting School

Community and award-winning in our use of ICT and innovative learning practice, having gained our 4th NAACE ICT Award in 2025.

Students at Lagan College enjoy many opportunities to have a voice, leading and contributing to school and community life, whether through the Student’s Council, Restorative Practice, the Justice Group, Shared Education Partnerships, Prefect roles, our Eco Committee, or charitable initiatives. We encourage our students to be confident and active participants in service and leadership.

Our school has a strong record of student success in all its forms, be that academic or extracurricular. At Lagan College, learning and growing together defines our mission statement to be a thriving and united school community, ‘Ut Sint Unum’ - That They May Be One! Offering 53 GCSE and 32 A-Level courses, there is a Lagan learning pathway for every child to achieve their potential, celebrating effort and encouraging high aspiration. We want students to enjoy learning and be proud of their own individuality. Our GCSE and A-level outcomes are very strong,

demonstrating exceptional partnerships formed between students, parents and staff.

We believe that every child has unique strengths, interests and talents; from music, drama and sport to STEM, public speaking, and coding. Having self-belief, being happy and resilient, are taught aspects of our personal development programme. We offer forty extra-curricular clubs and a range of enriching educational visits, so that every student can find their passion, be that Duke of Edinburgh challenges, public speaking competitions, school productions, or sporting prowess. There is something for everyone and everyone is welcome!

Beyond Lagan, our alumni embark on varied and meaningful pathways, ready to contribute to a shared and peaceful society. We recognise the positive impact we can make as an integrated school, enabling children to grow up, have fun and learn together.

The College Open Day is Saturday 17th January 2026 from 9.00-12.30.

Principal’s address 9.00, 10.00, 11.00 and 12.00. P6 & P7 families are most welcome as well as prospective sixth form students.

For more information contact: Lagan College, 44 Manse Road, Belfast BT8 6SA Telephone: 028 9040 1810 web: www.lagancollege.com Email: info@lagancollege.com PAGE 95

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

BREDA ACADEMY

LEARNERS TODAY, LEADERS TOMORROW Breda Academy is a vibrant and flourishing school community in its 10th year. We are a diverse and successful all-ability school in south Belfast, with 852 students aged 11 to 19 and 95 members of staff. We pride ourselves on being a welcoming, warm, friendly and caring school, where we place a very high value on establishing and nurturing strong positive relationships between students, staff and parents/carers.

Our students are expected to be safe, kind and ready for learning and develop core values and behaviours such as respect, responsibility, charity and kindness, as we give these values equal importance to attaining academic results.

We place our students at the heart of all we do and provide them with excellent pastoral care to promote their wellbeing, tailored support to meet their needs and high-quality teaching through an inclusive and diverse curriculum, to ensure they make continual progress in each Key Stage of their learning. Our students are also encouraged to avail of the wide range of enrichment opportunities which we offer, which include trips to Barcelona, South Africa, India, Munich and a ski trip to Bulgaria during the 2025-2026 academic year.

Breda Academy continues to expand as a community and we are very proud that we can offer all students a 7-year learning journey. Come and join us at our Open Evening on Thursday, 15th January 2026 from 6.00-8.00 p.m. and see why we are ‘Proud to be Breda’.

Our Vision To provide students with High Quality Learning and Teaching and an inclusive and enriching educational experience delivered through broad and balanced curriculum pathways, which develop knowledge, understanding, and skills to enable progress at each stage of learning and prepare them to attain qualifications for further education and career opportunities.

Our Facilities • Information Technology Suites, which are fully equipped with up-to-date technology • Apple Mac Suite • All classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards • Chrome Books • Music Suite with practice facilities • Sports Hall • Fitness Suite • Grass soccer pitch • Modern well stocked library • Sixth Year Common Room • Sixth Year Study Centre • Trampolines • Basketball court • Grass Rugby Pitch

School Trips

Dallas Cup Winners 2025

For more information contact: Breda Academy, Belfast BT8 6PY Tel: 028 9064 5374 Email: contact@breda.academy www.breda.academy

PAGE 96

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2026

CLONGOWES WOOD COLLEGE

DISCOVER CLONGOWES Founded in 1814, Clongowes is a Jesuit boarding school set in 550 acres in Co Kildare – just over 2 hours from Belfast.

Our school is a home from home for some 450 boys from all over the island of Ireland, England and further afield.

All students are boarders who enjoy our 7-day boarding education with long weekend breaks every month. Boarding life at Clongowes is fun with a rich variety of academic and co-curricular programmes like sports, music, drama, debating and the arts.

Clongowes is set in beautiful grounds with state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and learning and our wide ranging sports and co-curricular programmes. The sense of community amongst the students and staff is a real hallmark of boarding life at Clongowes. At the heart of our school is the Jesuit maxim, Cura Personalis or Care for the Individual. We really get to know our students exceptionally well; we get to know their strengths, their weaknesses and, importantly, guide and empower them to discover and nurture their talents in a safe and supportive environment.

With 150 acres dedicated to sports fields, including a 9-hole golf course, Clongowes’ students enjoy unrivalled opportunities for sport such as rugby, golf, athletics, tennis, athletic development, basketball etc. Golfers can now take advantage of, not only of our golf course, but also our new Trackman Golf Simulator.

The philosophy of “doing better” and being better at all we endeavour to do is key to life at the school. Our innovative and ambitious teachers work hand in hand with our dedicated and caring boarding team to inspire our students achieve to the fullest of their potential.

We believe that boarding school life should mirror the very best of family life and the

children clear boundaries. They set high expectations and they instil values by which to live. A strong family life nurtures the selfesteem that young people need to go out into the world with confidence. This is what we aspire to do, and more, complementing modern family life in our boarding school.

To discover what makes Clongowes such a special place, please take a virtual tour of our college using the QR code. Our main entry points are 1st Year (aged 12), 4th Year (age 16) and 5th Year (age 17).

Limited spaces are available to join in other years. family home. The best homes are full of life and laughter. They offer understanding and patience; they provide support and comfort when things go wrong. The best homes give

For more information contact: Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co. Kidare, Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 45 838258 Email: admissions@clongowes.net www.clongowes.net

PAGE 97

Contact our Admissions team to request more information, find out more about our upcoming events or arrange a visit to the school.

2025

Ross Anderson BSc First Class Hons (Computing Systems) and mum Hilary

First Class BEng graduate Aoife McGuckian with parents Clare and Stephen, from Maghera

Caoimhe Tierney, Ronan Davidson and 8-day-old Aoibheann

ULSTER UNIVERSITY WINTER GRADUATIONS Students of Ulster University recently celebrated with family and friends at their winter graduation ceremony in the ICC Belfast Waterfront.

Higher education graduate Sarah Reynolds with family left-right Edward, Edward, Lucy and grandparents Janet and Brian Haynes

Engineers Simon Schoppel, Max Schwankart, and Johannes Kaugelmann

Amber Lewis BEng with parents Seamus and Amanda, from Derry

Masters in Chemical Engineering classmates

Higher Educational Practice Masters classmates 99

Frances Neilson and Caitlin Mannis.

Jette Beyer, Meriam Dahmani and Alicia Kundl gaining Masters in Sustainable Development.

Nischitha Manjunath and Hebah Arafeh gaining Masters in Data Analytics.

QUEEN’S WINTER GRADUATIONS Students of Queen’s University recently celebrated with family and friends at their winter graduation ceremony in the Whitla Hall.

Dr Paul Donnelly PhD with Grace Williams and parents Patrick and Ann Donnelly.

Masters graduate Rory Mullan with family Bronagh, Brian and Eimear.

Laura Stitt, Majella Hickey and Rosie Keane.

Hannah Brown, Mollie Sawyer, Kymberleigh Brown and Emma Petrie.

Global Security Masters classmates.

100

Emma McKay (PhD Biological Science) and family Raymond, Eileen and Fiona..

Sara Baig and Lillyann McNally.

Roy and Elaine Brown with daughter Kymberleigh Brown and Gabriel Basara.

05

Masters graduate Steven McElevey with family Shannon and Daisy and dad Arthur.

Sonu Kaniyath with his sister Amitha Ashok Kumar (MSc Accountancy & Finance).

Emily Higgins, Brooke Norgaard and Emma Connolly gaining Masters Public History.

Niamh Mallaghan, Caolan McNally, Eimear O’Keeffe, Mags and John O’Keeffe.

MSc Accounting & Finance graduates.

Classmates graduating with Masters in Ecological Management & Conservation Biology.

Bethany Robinson PhD with Mark Courtney and family Sam, Rachel and Peter Robinson.

101

Sidney cook, Tanya Skillen and Annie cook (Salvation Army family appeal co-ordinator)

Michelle Baird and Matthew Forsythe

Emma Brennan, Eavann Mallon and Naomi Johnston Salvation army band left-right Mark Murray, Amy Murray, Kelston Stanford, Bethany Murray, Ava Metcalfe and Alan metcalfe

BRASSED OFF The Salvation Army band recently performed at the Lyric Theatre’s Christmas carol service. This multi-award-winning theatre is situated on the banks of the River Lagan in the heart of south Belfast. First established in 1951, it is a leading arts venue and the only full-time producing theatre in N. Ireland. The Lyric’s production of A Christmas Carol continues until 10th January ‘26.

Michael and Anne-Marie Poynor

Paula O’Reilly and Sighle Cashell

Sophie, Alex, Beatrice and Nick Hayles

102

Clare Gault and Grace Walsh

New collections now on display 14-16 Newry Street Kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4DN

028 4176 2315 www.johnashannon.co.uk

January 2026

ARTS DIARY

“Personally I love the concept, in particular how artists who excel in a range of mediums, all come together to produce something specifically for this creative showcase.”

EDITED BY KELLIE BURCH

KELLIE@ULSTERTATLER.COM

OPENING OF NINE Christmas came early in east Belfast as Late Modern (the gallery side of Late Cafe) presented the official launch of a stunning exhibition: Nine. The concept of the exhibition follows on from last year’s inventive display: Five, which featured five colours, five artists and five prints. As the name suggests, this year’s instalment was even bigger and bolder with a palette of nine colours, a roster of nine talented artists, and nine exciting new limited edition prints.

The opening event took place in the buzzing Boundary Taproom,, located at Portview Trade Centre on the Newtownards Road. This year’s showcased artists were: Ashleigh McClurg; Glenn Kennedy; Herald Black; John Macormac; Lisa Ballard; Neil Gillespie; Thomas Bannon; Timothy Farrell and Tristan Barry.

Curated by exhibiting artist Timothy Farrell, Nine is like an album of artwork: each print has the nuance and individual style of the artist. However, when you take a step back and view the collection as a whole, there is a consistency to the body of work which ensures each print complements the other. As well as each screen print being the same size, the brief of the showcase is that each piece must use a single ink colour. So, if you bought more than one print, or indeed bought a print from the Five collection as well as Nine, you are guaranteed each piece will display perfectly well together.

At the opening night, I spoke to Neil Gillespie, whose piece ‘The Grapes’ is a visual ode to wine and its place in society. He discussed that he is proud of the success of the exhibitions, and how they are quickly becoming a festive staple in our cultural calendar. Personally I love the concept, in particular how artists who excel in a range of mediums, all come together to produce something specifically for this creative showcase. Nine is a microcosm representing the sheer breadth of the artistic talent we have in Northern Ireland.

At the launch, I also had the opportunity to speak to Ben Hamilton, owner of Late Cafe. He shared that what he loved about having the exhibition opening night at Boundary was that it allowed local businesses to collaborate together, much in the same way the exhibiting artists did.

After the opening night, Nine moved to be displayed at Late Cafe, which is located on Orangefield Lane, where it will remain until early January. Not only can visitors to the Cafe enjoy the show whilst picking up their caffeine fix, but they can also pick up a print to bring home for the incredibly reasonable sum of £40.

However, you have to hurry as each piece, which is signed by the artist, only has a limited run of 30 prints, so once they are gone, they are gone for good!

The opening of Nine took place on 4 December.

Tim and Leanne Farrell with kids

Esther and Elias

Artists Neil Gillespie and Stephen Dow

Artists Lisa Ballard and Tristan Parry

Ben Hamilton (Late Cafe), Tom and Amy Tavori 104

Tim Farrell and mum

Claudia Ballard, Carl Eccles and Meabh Carragher

Patrick Colhoun and Neil Gillespie.

LAUNCH OF OUT OF THE FRYING PAN December kicked off with the launch of Out of The Frying Pan: From Chaos to Contempt. The book is the brainchild of Enniskillen-born Marcus Patton OBE, a retired architect, illustrator, cartoonist and historian, as well as a member of the Society of Architectural Illustrators and an associate of RUA. Patton, who is largely a self-taught artist, has been drawing cartoons for 60 years and now has a new place to house 160 of his pen, ink and watercolour creations: Out of The Frying Pan: From Chaos to Contempt. The book, which launched at No Alibis on Belfast’s Botanic Avenue, sees Marcus Patton cast his comic graphic eye over recent international and local events. From events in Ukraine, to the election of Donald Trump…Again, to chaos in the Middle East, global warming and a host of other calamities, this is a colourful, unique book which will appeal to all with a sense of humour and an appreciation of creativity.

At the launch guests, who included Toby Patton, Pat Hunt, Cara Gordon and Joanne Mules, were treated to a special interview between Marcus Patton and Malachi O’Doherty.

The launch of Out of The Frying Pan: From Chaos to Contempt took place on 4 December.

hor Marcus Patton

David Torrens and aut

Pat Hunt, Cara Gordon and Joanne Mules

Toby Patton, Joanne Mules and Marcus Patton

PORTGLENONE WRITERS’ NEW ANTHOLOGY If your New Year’s resolution is to enjoy more local writing, then look no further than Making Words Work, the second anthology by Portglenone Writers. Composed of novices and more experienced writers, the Portglenone Writers group was established in 2013 to create a space for those in the local area who had a wish to write. Since its formation, the group has grown and the result is a group of writers that show a wealth of observation, insight, imagination and creativity.

Making Words Work, edited by Damien Clarke, is an engrossing anthology which features 17 unique voices such as Avery Bowser, Leo Convery, Una Porter, Malachy Duffin and Brigid McDonald. Within the pages you will find a compilation of short stories and poems that range in location, tone and content; from a police officer who questions duty over empathy, to the haunting lamentation of a fun-filled Halloween carnival in Derry in light of the tragedy that ravaged the same celebrations in the city of Seoul in 2022.

Making Words Work is a thoroughly enjoyable read with writing that is poignant, and talent that is unquestionable. And with proceeds of book sales going to local charities, this special volume is definitely one to add to your 2026 must-read list.

Copies of Making Words Work can be found at The Bank (Main Street, Portglenone); Options Hairdresser (Main Street, Portglenone); Island Nursery Garden Centre; and The Hub (Cullybackey).

105

January 2026

ARTS DIARY

WATERSTONES’ CHRISTMAS EVENING Waterstones on Fountain Street, Belfast, brought the festive vibes with its Christmas Evening in December. With an offering of guest authors in store to sign copies of their books, it was the perfect treat. The mood was set on the walk to the store, passing the twinkly lights at Belfast City Hall, and the sights and sounds of the Belfast Christmas Market. And the Christmas spirit continued inside with helpings of mince pies and mulled wine.

The real gift for literary lovers, however, was the talented authors in attendance.

Known for her proficiency in crafting exquisite short stories, Wendy Erskine was signing copies of her debut novel, which was named Waterstones Irish Book of the Year, The Benefactors. Crime lovers were thrilled as award-winning thriller writer Steve Cavanagh was on hand to sign copies of the latest in the Eddie Flynn series, Two Kinds of Stranger. Younger literary fans were delighted with the appearance of conservationist Dara McAnulty who was armed with copies of his gorgeous new book, A Wild Child’s Guide to Nature at Night.

Beautifully illustrated by Barry Falls, it is full of fantastic facts about nocturnal animals, activities on how to spot them and ways that we can protect the natural world around us.

Another festive delight was County Tyrone international bestselling author Emma Heatherington who presented her new feel-good festive novel Every Christmas Eve. Finally, non-fiction fans were excited to meet Chris Moore, winner of journalist of the year and features journalist of the year in Northern Ireland, and author of several biggest selling non-fiction titles including Kincora: Britain’s Shame.

Christmas is a time of giving and it seemed fitting that volunteers from local charity Rosie’s Trust were also on hand to gift wrap purchases and raise money to help cancer patients, people receiving end-of-life care, and older people with mobility issues to keep their companion pets by their side.

One of my favourite Christmas presents is a good book, and so the Waterstones Christmas Evening was an essential pitstop for those hoping to pick up some last minute gifts. Even if, like me, it turned out to be a gift for yourself.

Waterstones Christmas Evening took place on 11 December.

Authors Chris Moore and Steve

Wendy Erskine and Matt Gillen from Waterstones store

Naturalist and author Dara McAnulty

Steve Cavanagh with fans Jenny and Ivan McCalmont

Chris Moore with Amy North from Ground coffee store in the Belfast Waterstones bookstore

Waterstones shoppers Ronan McIntyre, Bella and Gemma Weir 106

Cavanagh

Author Dara McAnulty with Waterstones shopper Meredith Underhill

Waterstones staff Keziah Armitage and Niamh Stone

January 2026

ARTS DIARY

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE PRESS NIGHT The weather outside was frightful as I made my way to the cosy confines of The Sanctuary Theatre in east Belfast for the press night of Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s new production, Baby, It’s Cold Outside.

On arrival I had the chance to mingle, spotting guests such as PR guru Rachael Harriott; Baby, It’s Cold Outside’s director Michael Quinn, artistic director of Bright Umbrella Drama Company Trevor Gill, and broadcaster Denise Watson.

The Sanctuary Theatre is located within an old Church at Castlereagh Street Junction. Retaining the pews and much of the building’s original charm, the space has an intimate vibe making it the perfect performance space.

I must admit, going into the production I didn’t know what to expect - but I was not disappointed. Set against the snowy backdrop of Belfast’s Black Mountain, Baby, It’s Cold Outside begins when Ballymurphy bricklayer Joe (Brian Markey) arrives at a remote cottage in the middle of a blizzard, convinced he’s about to reunite with his pregnant ex, Patsy (Mary McGurk). Instead, he finds her with her marine biologist lover Sally (Michelle Wiggins) and their visiting American friend Madison (Jade O’Neill). What follows is a chaotic, hilarious and surprisingly touching clash of personalities, as the four characters are snowed in together and forced to confront their assumptions about love, family and identity.

There were so many things I loved about this production: the fast-paced dialogue, the multifaceted characters as well as the local humour and colloquialisms. Brain Markey excelled at being a rather ‘sad sack’ Joe, who is clearly in love with his ex. But rather than being pathetic, he breathed a warmth into the character that made him rather endearing. Mary McGurk as the pregnant Patsy is fierce and independent but her nuanced performance showed glimpses of the vulnerabilities that lie beneath. I adored the brass ‘Yank’ Madison, wonderfully portrayed by Jade O’Neill. She added much vivacity and mischief to the production, keeping the other characters and indeed the audience on their toes. Completing the quartet, Michelle Wiggins’ subtle performance as Sally was very powerful and engaging. She exudes a tough exterior but it quickly became apparent that underneath was a very big heart.

Rich in laughs, full of heart, and with a measured dose of humanity, Baby, It’s Cold Outside brought much needed warmth during the cold winter days.

The press night took place on 18 December.

Cast Jade O’Neill, Mary McGurk, Michelle Wiggins and Brian Markey Mion.

Show director Michael Quinn, stage manager Emma Dawson and Trevor Gill

Jennie and John McCarley

Denise Watson and Rachael Harriott

Julie McCormick, Jackie O’Kane, Caroline Green and Linda Armour

Louise Vance and Adrian Quinn Ladies from Holywood u3a group 107

???

Peter Wright and Ray Cromie

Jack Connor, Jack Young and Wilton Paton

Jim Neilly, Ian McIlrath, Charlie McAleese and John Callaghan

Alfie Conn, Billy Crown and Brian Livingstone

Ian Davidson and Alex Redpath

KINGS SCHOLARS RFC CENTENARY The Old Billiard Room in the Ulster Reform Club, Belfast was the venue for a memorable lunch to celebrate the centenary of Kings Scholars Rugby Football Club, the rugby club of Stranmillis College. Founded in 1925, Kings Scholars produced many players who went on to represent Ulster, Ireland and the British and Irish Lions as well as providing many respected and successful coaches at school, senior club, provincial and international level.

Organised by Dave Fitzsimmons, Barney McGonigle, and Jim Neilly who acted as master of ceremonies, attendees included former captains Tom McKinstry, Eric McAfee and Ronnie Hassard, with 1950s players and captains Walter Montgomery and John Maxwell the senior Scholars in attendance. Paul Hart, president of the Ulster Branch IRFU, proposed the toast to Kings Scholars; Ian McIlwrath, Irish international and former president of the IRFU, replied.

John Witten, Tom Alderdice, Robert Jennet and Andy Grey

Jim Neilly, Alan Sturgeon and John Crothers

Denis Gardner and Paul Hart 108

THE FINEST COLLECTION OF QUALITY FABRICS

16 – 18 DARGAN CRESCENT, DUNCRUE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BELFAST BT3 9JP TEL. 028 90 370 390 EMAIL.HELLO@MADABOUTFABRICS.COM WWW.MADABOUTFABRICS.COM

Find us on

Margey Starting Year with Derry Exhibition at Ebrington Hotel Portrush-based artist Adrian Margey is starting 2026 with a high profile exhibition and sale of work at Ebrington Hotel, Derry City from Friday 30th January until Sunday 1st February. The focus of this one-man-show will be the North West. Derry City’s landmarks, the rugged beauty of Donegal and the charm of the Causeway Coast have inspired this new body of work. Visitors should expect an eclectic exhibition filled with vibrant landscapes, dramatic cityscapes and dreamy beach scenes. From thrilling representations of The Peace Bridge, Guildhall and Shipquay Street to portrayals of Inishowen, Errigal, Marble Hill, Downings, Glenveagh, Downhill, Portrush and Portstewart, this promises to be an exhibition of contrasts. Exhibition Opening Times: Friday 30th January: 6pm – 9pm | Saturday 31st January: 11am – 9pm and Sunday 1st February: 11am – 6pm.

Visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone his Portrush Studio on 07841593762 for more information.

‘Muckish’

‘Austins Tribute’

‘Marble Hill’

Artist Adrian Margey

‘Killybegs Harbour’

‘Peace Bridge Reflections’

‘Innishowen Cottage’’

‘Autumn on Shipquay Street’

‘Portballintrae Evening’

Visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone 07841593762 for more information.

What will your legacy be?

A gift in your Will to Queen’s can become many things.

For researchers like Professor Denise Fitzgerald it can enable ground-breaking research into Multiple Sclerosis and related illnesses.

A legacy to Queen’s is more than what you leave behind. It’s also what you hand on.

What will your legacy be?

Start the conversation today.

Contact Louise Carey at l.carey@qub.ac.uk or visit go.qub.ac.uk/legacy-gift

DISCOVER MORE

January 2026

REVIEW

Remain in Light Chris Sherry pays a visit to the Bengal Brasserie on Belfast’s Lisburn Road.

T

he Lisburn Road, arguably Belfast’s premier destination for shopping and socialising, has seen some competition of late. As Belfast continues to develop, other areas of the city are in the ascendancy. Ormeau, Ballyhackamore and Belmont, for example, have experienced tremendous growth in recent times with a proliferation of cafes and restaurants as gentrification continues apace. The Lisburn Road, dare I say it, a style-setter for so long, may be at risk of losing the zeitgeist as young creatives have sought more affordable rental spaces elsewhere. Having grown up nearby, the area is one I tend to take for granted, and although I often have coffee there, I hadn’t socialised on the Lisburn Road in the evenings for quite some time.

I am pleased to report, therefore, that a recent visit to the Lisburn Road’s Bengal Brasserie for dinner reminded me just how appealing the area is – we went on a Wednesday evening and the restaurant (and road) were buzzing - it has certainly lost none of its vibrancy and charm. The Bengal is, of course, a family favourite, somewhere we have frequented over the

years. Food trends come and go but Indian cuisine is a perennial favourite in this part of the world and this restaurant has always had a loyal local following. It’s not hard to see why – the food and service are excellent and the restaurant has a sophisticated, grown-up vibe. You can dust off your glad rags and visit for a special occasion but equally, it’s very convenient for popping out for a casual bite to eat any evening of the week without breaking the bank. It also appears to do a roaring takeaway trade.

On the evening we visited, a private event was taking place at the far end of the restaurant, intriguingly named Property and Poppadoms. We ended up chatting to some of the participants and discovered that it’s a networking group, led by James Rogers and William Kane, that meets regularly to discuss all things property-related. That’s another great thing about this restaurant - it has spaces that can facilitate large private groups very comfortably while at the same time being able to provide a more intimate setting for couples and smaller parties.

In terms of the food, the menu is extensive with all the dishes you’d expect

112

from any decent Indian restaurant, plus more. I must admit I’m something of a creature of habit when it comes to ordering in the Bengal Brasserie - one of my go-to dishes is chicken bhuna, which I ordered once again and enjoyed every bite. Following a shared mixed vegetable starter, my wife had a monkfish curry followed by chocolate torte - she reported both were delicious. I finished off with an Irish coffee which I definitely didn’t need but it was a good excuse to linger in this lovely restaurant. Aside from the food, what makes this restaurant so special is that the owner, Arif Ahmed, personally oversees the whole operation; it is obvious that he cares about his customers and wants to ensure that everyone is well looked after. So next time you feel that you need a bit of a pickme-up during the long winter evenings, I suggest a trip to this fine restaurant.

FACT FILE:

The Bengal Brasserie, 322 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6GH Tel: 028 9068 1255 Web: bengalbrasserieuk.com

Neil Hannon

Eamonn Holmes with Ciaran Hinds

Paul Brady

Ambassador Martin Fraser with Colin Davidson

Multi Award Winning company dedicated to producing the finest free range eggs in the industry

Multi award winning, including Great British Food Awards, Great Taste Awards, Irish Quality Food Award and Blas na hÉireann Awards.

• Family run business • Farm to fork • All hens are free range • High welfare standards • British Lion accredited

TWELVE PAINTINGS A large crowd of invited guests and friends of artist Colin Davidson and broadcaster Mark Carruthers gathered at the Embassy of Ireland for the London launch of Colin Davidson: Twelve Paintings - Conversations with Mark Carruthers, published by Merrion Press. Ambassador Martin Fraser welcomed the many guests who included broadcaster Eamonn Holmes, actor Ciaran Hinds, Colm Eastwood MP and Lord Bew. Simon Callow, who contributed a foreword to the book, addressed the audience before Mark Carruthers and Colin Davidson held an insightful and entertaining interview, before opening it up the floor for questions.

Cavanagh Free Range Eggs Ltd. 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 Simon Callow, Colin Davidson, Mark Carruthers and Ciaran Hinds 113

Lola Hunter with Ross and Rebecca Thompson with Casey Abi Straney, Sarah and Faith Alexander

HORSE SENSE The 19th Saintfield Charity Santa Ride took place in early December. Hundreds of riders from all over the province, dressed as Santa, assembled at Mary Mother of the Church in Saintfield, where they enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies before proceeding through the village on horseback.

This hugely successful fundraising event is organised by local horsewoman Joan Cunningham.

UTV’s Katie Andrews and Jonathan Cousins

Joan Cunningham, Ian Wilson and Katie Andrews

Alexa Gawley and Minnie with parents

Vi Patterson and Bree Rutledge

Saintfield christmas charity riders

Saintfield christmas charity riders

114

HOME & SITE VISITS Complementary Consultations Welcome to Hambly & Hambly.

Hambly & Hambly is a Northern Ireland visual art gallery and cultural hub which provides curation of the best in international Art and Culture. A forwardthinking, progressive multi-purpose cultural space, we are located in the 18th century landmark Dunbar House, Enniskillen.

The venue is a unique cultural tourist destination in which to experience a vast array of visual art, alongside music, literature, performance art, set in the remarkable Fermanagh landscape.

Hambly & Hambly promotes a core belief in the value of The Arts, Culture, Conservation and Education. We provide exciting new opportunities to engage with Art and Culture in innovative ways, breaking new ground.

Our core ethos is a strong commitment to enhancing Education and Health through Art and Culture. Thinking beyond the traditional white-box gallery, Hambly & Hambly hosts diverse physical and virtual local, national,and international visual art events and residencies against a cultural backdrop, supported by an evolving all encompassing learning programme.

Hambly & Hambly are proud to have recently provided a bespoke curated collection of artworks at the Lough Erne Resort and a bespoke curated collection of commissioned artworks for The Crawford Collection at Belle Isle.

We carry a diverse and exciting collection of thousands of contemporary artworks by leading award-winning artists and specialise in bespoke commissions. We offer personalised, expert advice on hanging, framing and collecting art for public and private venues. Serving a loyal client base, we offer a trained and confident eye on placing and extending your collection cohesively with interest, working in close relationship with you. Collecting art is a joyful, intelligent investment we advise on, recognising its financial and personal rewards. › ART TO YOU: From our extensive and diverse collection, we bring bespoke curations directly to you, allowing you the opportunity to view artworks in your space before committing to investing. › TRIAL: Artworks are available for short tryouts encouraging client confidence. › MEET THE ARTIST: Appreciating the opportunity to meet the artist and their work is an important client experience, we arrange client-artist meetings. › ART HIRE: Artwork hire is now available. We curate non-permanent evolving collections in consultation with you for short or long term, allowing you the excitement of an evolving collection. › BESPOKE FRAMING: Rejuvenate your collection with fresh framing. We offer framing advice and services on all artworks and advise and faciliate hanging. › COMPLEMENTARY CONSULTATIONS THROUGHOUT IRELAND & UK › MAKE AN EXCELLENT INVESTMENT - Enhance your space with excellent investment in the future - appreciate art which grows in value with our guidance. › HOME - WORKSPACE - HOTELS - All Domestic & Public spaces

For a no obligation consultation: T: 07808 010 327 E: ciara@hamblyandhambly.com Visit hamblyandhambly.com to view our exceptional selection of gallery artists

John Richardson French Escapes We are offering you unforgettable, enriching opportunities to Escape into Art & Culture in the beautiful southwest of France. Our bespoke pioneering Escapes promise memory-making adventures in exciting and undiscovered places. Allow yourself to grow in new appreciation and experiences immersed in a luxurious French idyll with your every need catered for by a fluent French and English speaking host with exceptional knowledge of the surrounding area.

Perfect for private groups of four to fourteen guests, for a duration length of your choice (minimum 3 days), our Bespoke Escapes offer new opportunities for imaginative birthday parties, anniversaries, hen and stag parties, cultured vacations, Christmas celebrations and any unforgettable Escape with friends and family.

Welcoming also corporate groups, we offer expert advice on planning imaginative and unforgettable teambonding Escapes to professional groups.

We will discuss and create your Escape experience according to your interests.

The following Escapes offer ideas which you might like to consider and can be blended and mixed according to your requirements.

For more information contact:

› Wine tasting & vineyard visits - experience and grow your knowledge with a qualified sommelier.

› Interior Design - Develop your appreciation and application of creating beautiful interiors with a well-known interior designer.

› Gastronomy - combine visits to exceptional restaurants with delicious onsite dining.

› Flower Arranging - Develop your skill in arranging beautiful flowers with flair guided by an exceptional florist.

› Culinary - Develop your French cooking skills › Island Visits - visit the beautiful Charente islands Ile de Re, Ile D’Aix, Ile D’Oleron. › Chateaux Visits - Immerse yourself in traditional French beauty and architecture. › Markets & Brocantes - Enjoy an exceptional and distinctive part of French living. › Art Appreciation - Guided visits to galleries & museums with engaging classes & discussions led by experts examining art and art history. › Painting - Allow yourself creative expression with paint led by an expert. › Photography - Develop your photography skills in the beautiful French landscape with a renowned photographer. › Creative Writing - Discover and develop your ability to write led by an accalimed author. › Poetry Appreciation - Spend time immersed in poetry. We link poetry to food & wine, places and experiences in new unforgettable ways with a guest poet of repute.

ciara@hamblyandhambly.com

› Colour Your Life - Colour impacts all area of your life. Discover colour with an expert and learn how to apply colours in your home, dress, cookery and all presentation. › Yoga - Our expert yoga facilitator delivers your yoga onsite. › Human Diet Petronnella - Escape to France to feast and fast your way to feeling, looking and being your best. All intake provided is specifically tailored to meet the Human Diet Petronnella, making following this acclaimed diet in company easy and effective. › French Language - Learn and improve your french speaking skills with an expert and passionate teacher in new, exciting ways.

PRIVATE RENTALS With specialised and experienced knowledge of The Charente Maritime, we also organise bespoke private rentals in the right area for you, meeting individual and group needs, with excellent tips to ensure your maximum enjoyment, escaping into France.

07808 010 327

www.hamblyandhambly.com

Alison Rimmer and Evelyn Hassard

Event Organisers, Nick, Méabh, Fionn and Ciara Hambly from Hambly & Hambly

Artists togerther - Eamon Coleman, Ciara Hambly, Brian Bryne, Gareth Bryne (Lough Erne Manager), Billy Moore, Maria Noonan-McDermott and Neal Greig

Maeve and Reggie Ferguson

Nick Hambly and Simon Carman

THE LOUGH ERNE COLLECTION The unveiling of The Lough Erne Collection, curated by Ciara Hambly, was a joyous celebration of a new collection of contemporary Irish art (from north and south), provided by Hambly & Hambly Art Gallery and exhibited at Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen. This stunning collection of seventy diverse artworks (many of which are now available to purchase) takes resort guests on an unique art journey in celebration of a new partnership between Hambly & Hambly and Lough Erne Resort, which raises the bar in cultural tourism. The event was attended by many of the artists who mingled with guests, engaging them in informal and enlightening conversations about their artworks. Curator Ciara Hambly introduced the concepts behind this world-class collection which seeks to enhance and reflect the beauty of the interior and exterior of this stunning location. Complimentary copies of the limited edition Lough Erne Collection Book are available, email ciara@ hamblyandhambly.com.

Neal Greig and Eileen Ferguson

Brian and Patricia Bryne along with Marianne Fahy and Billy Moore

Rosaleen McGonagle, Patrick Dineen and Lee McLaren

116

The Lough Erne Resort Manager Gareth Byrne along with the event organiser Ciara Hambly

Loraine and Gareth Crawford

Justin Peacock, Rich Diaz and Event organiser Ciara Hambly

Michael Michale, Alison Lucchesi and James Britton

Lorna, Mary and Jane Richardson

Mark Healy from Hambly & Hambly admiring the work ‘Winter Reverie’ from the artist Marian Noonan-McDermott

Stephen and Kizzy McWhirter

Sienna Taggart andand Meabh Danica Farren FyfeJonathan LLB. Harper

Michelle and Jennifer Magee

Ava Stubbs and Joshua Rafferty

117

Brenda and Christain Davis

The Word

Small by Design. Perfect by Craft.

At Piccolo Kitchen, we celebrate the craft of Italian cooking; from the perfect pizza toss to the pasta twirl on your fork. Every dish is handmade with care, using fresh ingredients and time-honoured Mediterranean recipes, so that every bite carries the flavour of authenticity and the warmth of tradition.

PICCOLO KITCHEN 699 Lisburn Rd, Belfast, BT9 7GU 028 9013 5308

At Edenderry our pupils are the community of the future. We are dedicated to nurturing their growth, creativity and wellbeing.

Through care, education and support, we empower them to thrive and shape tomorrow.

Edenderry PS 1A Lurgan Road, Seapatrick, Banbridge, BT32 4AF

028 4062 2082 www.edenderryps.co.uk 118

piccolokitchen.co.uk

January 2026

BOOK REVIEW BY DR PAUL HARRON

The Houses of Guinness This month, Dr Paul Harron reviews The Houses of Guinness by Adrian Tinniswood OBE. As Arthur Edward Guinness, 4th Lord Iveagh, writes in his foreword to this sumptuous new book, ‘these Guinnesses were a spirited lot’. Not half! And they built, bought and developed structures with highly colourful histories, many of which have become firmly embedded in our cultural consciousness, particularly in Ireland. Coinciding niftily with the recent Netflix series, ‘The House of Guinness’, this pleasingly produced and entertaining volume written by Adrian Tinniswood chronicles the lives, homes and fortunes of the great brewing dynasty through thirteen main buildings and it also includes a chapter on their significant family involvement with ecclesiastical architecture.

From 1759 to 1997 (when Guinness plc merged with Grand Metropolitan to form Diageo), the Guinnesses prospered.

Tinniswood summarises: ‘politically conservative Church of Ireland Protestants with a strong evangelical streak and an equally strong work ethic (most of them, anyway), they turned stout to liquid gold’.

They combined ambition with a strong sense of civic pride and social justice, restoring St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, giving St Stephen’s Green to the city, building hospitals and replacing slums with decent workers’ housing in Dublin and London, and gifting art-filled Kenwood House in London to the public. ‘They bought, built [and] remodelled’

Farmleigh 1873

Clandeboye House

various places where they could entertain and network and enjoy their wealth.

Space here only permits mention of a few of the places which Tinniswood describes.

Ashford Castle in its magical Mayo setting was transformed by Sir Arthur, later Lord Ardilaun (the book includes an essential family tree!) and his wife Olive into a turreted, ‘stunningly romantic neo-Gothic fantasy’ first with the help of architect James Franklin Fuller, followed (after a falling out) by George Coppinger Ashlin. As the superb photographs show, the £2m transformation with wood panelling 120

abounding is ‘the last word in opulent comfort’. The Ardilauns entertained on a lavish scale there; now it is, of course, a renowned hotel.

Farmleigh, ‘a semi-rural retreat’ on the edge of Phoenix Park in Dublin for Edward Cecil Guinness, Lord Iveagh (from 1891) – the richest man in Ireland and one of the richest in the UK – is famously (following its purchase in 1999) now the Irish State Guest House. The grand Victorian-Edwardian house is a heady mix of styles and the Guinnesses entertained there with exuberance; architect William Young created an enormous new ballroom while Mackenzie and Moncur added a superb conservatory, just two of many extensions at different times.

Edward Cecil, Earl of Iveagh and Viscount Elvedon from 1919, was, we learn, someone who’s ‘philanthropy was a byword in London and Dublin’, including the Guinness Housing Trust in London and Iveagh Trust for workers’ housing in Dublin but he was also, along with his wife, a huge collector of art including

Helen’s Tower

Elveden Hall, 1895

“The book contains fascinating chapters on Elveden Hall and Kenwood House, the latter magnificent house left after his death to be freely enjoyed as a gallery for Londoners – ‘an unrivalled monument to public-spirited generosity’ by an Edwardian brewer.” numerous Old Masters. The book contains fascinating chapters on Elveden Hall and Kenwood House, the latter magnificent house left after his death to be freely enjoyed as a gallery for Londoners – ‘an unrivalled monument to public-spirited generosity’ by an Edwardian brewer.

Clandeboye House in Co. Down is also featured – Maureen Guinness married the heir to the Marquessate of Dufferin and Ava in 1930. The highly romantic Helen’s Tower on the estate (designed in Scots baronial style by WH Lynn, and famously replicated at the Somme as the memorial to the lost of the 36th Ulster Division) is a particularly notable structure but the house itself is also a fascinating melange, full of remarkable artefacts. During the 1930s, the Dufferins were one of the most glamorous couples in Britain. The survival of the house during the 1960s is laudable and Lindy Guinness, who lived there from the late 60s until her death in 2020, described it as ‘a house of dreams and enchantment that fill my thoughts’.

The book culminates in the telling of the story of the remarkable rescue of Castletown House in Co. Kildare – a Georgian Palladian palazzo masterpiece which came up for sale in 1967 and which was bought by Desmond Guinness and his then wife Mariga (he, we learn, was ‘urbane’, while she was

‘unflappable’), not as a home but for others to enjoy (rather in the tradition of Kenwood). Both were concerned about Ireland’s architectural heritage and they resurrected The Georgian Society as the Irish Georgian Society in order to preserve Georgian architecture in Ireland during the late 1950s and into the 1960s, with indefatigable efforts which led to a successful Irish conservation movement. (I have my own personal thanks to include here, having once received a Desmond Guinness prize to help with architectural history research.) As for Castletown, Jacqueline Kennedy even made an appearance at its opening; in 1994 it was taken over by the OPW and while it is currently lamentably closed, hopefully it will reopen to the public soon.

This eloquently written and revealing publication is fascinating, both surprising and delightful in equal measure, and packed with terrific archival and contemporary photographs.

121

Scala Arts Publisher www.scalapublishers.com ISBN 9781785516078 HB £30

Alister and dad Jim Patterson

Joan Lennon, Carena Blake and Heather Rice

Soloist Dana Masters

Sam Porter and Agnes Moore, from Belfast Cathedral

Neil Anderson and Sylwia Lakaszew

Erin Tumilson, Beth Greenan and Andy McKnight, from the production team

Jo Watson and Nancy Brown

Lynsey and Adam McCune

CHRISTMAS AT THE CATHEDRAL Christmas at the Cathedral with Peter Corry took place at St Anne’s on Saturday 13th December.

Together with the outstanding young performers of the BSPA Voices Choir and a host of musicians including the Arco String Quartet, audiences were treated to a festive celebration that blended a traditional Christmas with modern classics.

Peter Corry with the BSPA voices choir 122

Enjoy new dishes at Carthago Moira, inspired by the rich oasis and Sahara cuisine of southern Tunisia.

After visiting Sarah’s Festival in Douz, Tunisia, I was truly amazed by the new Berber Arabesque dishes and the incredible flavours of the Sahara. The experience inspired me so much that I decided to bring these creations back home to Carthago in Moira - to warm up our winter with the rich spices and aromas of Tunisia! At Carthago Restaurant, we already offer beautiful Mediterranean, North African, and Tunisian cuisine. But now we are going even deeper into the Sahara and the oasis traditions, bringing you authentic nomadic flavours that are truly mouth-watering. Get ready for a new journey of taste - straight from the desert to your table.

After visiting Sarah’s Festival in Douz, Tunisia, I was truly amazed by the new Berber Arabesque dishes and the incredible flavours of the Sahara.

The experience inspired me so much that I decided to bring these creations back home to Carthago in Moira — to warm up our winter with the rich spices and aromas of Tunisia!

At Carthago Restaurant, we already offer beautiful Mediterranean, North African, and Tunisian cuisine…

But now we are going even deeper into the Sahara and the oasis traditions, bringing you authentic nomadic flavours that are truly mouth-watering.

Get ready for a new journey of taste — straight from the desert to your table.

85 Main St, Moira, Craigavon BT67 0LH / T: 028 9250 8552

Find us on

SUBSCRIPTION ®

A DOZEN WAYS TO KEEP IN TOUCH

JUST £25 FOR 12 ISSUES DIRECT DEBIT ONLY

TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS TERRIFIC OFFER

SIMPLY CALL 028 9066 3311 OR SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM The minimum subscription term is 12 months. The normal cost of 12 issues is £47.40 based on the cover price of £3.95. Offers applies to UK residents only.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS Zenith Information Technology Solutions, formed in 2012 by Managing Director, Gareth Clements, is a leading IT Managed Services provider, specializing in delivering innovative, reliable, and secure technology solutions for businesses across industries. Our mission is to empower organizations by offering a wide range of IT services that enhance operational efficiency, safeguard against cyber threats, and drive digital transformation. With a focus on proactive support and security, Zenith ensures that your IT infrastructure remains optimized and resilient in an increasingly complex technological landscape CORE SERVICES:

• Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM) • Antivirus (AV) Protection • Microsoft 365 Services • Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) • Phishing Protection • Security Awareness Training • Cyber Essentials Certification • Hosting Services • SaaS Protection & Alerts • Ransomware Protection • Voice-over-IP (VoIP) Solutions

: 028 944 88200

: hello@zenithitsolutions.co.uk 141

: www.zenithitsolutions.co.uk

April 2017

INTERVIEW Looking Back THROUGHOUT THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR OF ULSTER TATLER WE WILL BE REPUBLISHING KEY INTERVIEWS FROM OUR ARCHIVES. THIS MONTH WE REVISIT AN INTERVIEW BY JANE HARDY FROM APRIL 2017 WITH JONATHAN ANDERSON, NOW SOLE CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT FASHION HOUSE DIOR.

• INTERVIEW FIRST PUBLISHED APRIL 2017 ISSUE OF ULSTER TATLER

THE F-WORD

I

f anyone has a finger on the feverish pulse of fashion, it’s Jonathan Anderson.

The mid-Ulster born son of rugby legend Willie Anderson is one of the most rated designers around. His own label, JW Anderson, is a flourishing fashion business in hip Dalston, east London, employing 50 people. Jonathan is also riding high at Loewe, working two days a week in Paris as the luxury Spanish fashion label’s creative director. His timetable has been described as “insane”, he was recently cited one of the most influential 500 people in global fashion, and he produces some 16 collections of men’s and women’s wear each year.

Yet there are other projects too. Jonathan admits with a laugh that he works long hours. You wonder if he ever sleeps. The

week after we spoke Jonathan Anderson’s exhibition Disobedient Bodies was opening at the Hepworth Wakefield gallery. Showing his interest in the bigger picture, Jonathan says: “It looks at the different designers and artists of the last 100 years and how they’ve tackled the human body. There’s an amazing Christian Dior sculptural piece from an important moment, just before he produced the Bar jackets (part of the influential postwar New Look). We’ve got harness jackets by Helmut Lang, a risque wax torso of a man and a woman by surrealist artist Naum Gabo. Also Yves St Laurent’s metal shift dress which is well known.”

If this sounds like a sort of big ideas board full of the kind of influences that feed into a JW Anderson collection, that’s because it is. He says: “For me any sort of creative form helps what I do.

I need bumpers and sounding boards.”

We get onto the meaning of the F-word, fashion itself, and what it can do. Jonathan expounds: “Fashion has become part of the human condition and can be used in many different ways, as a political weapon or as creative output. It’s also a good barometer at a particular time to tell you where you’re at.”

Where we’re at with Jonathan Anderson’s work is cutting edge.

Of course, fashion labels are a world away from the first thing you pull on in the morning, and haute couture as it was called when the French were in charge is different again. It’s a rarefied world. In any JW Anderson collection, you will get varied cultural references. His first menswear collection, produced in 2008 after he graduated from the London College of Fashion, featured a 1970s vibe, for example.

“That was a hippy collection, with a lot of tiedye and patchouli. I saw the same thing last year and thought ‘I’ve been here too long’.” Since then, Jonathan has successfully stretched the boundaries of what we like to wear, including

126

quite a bit of gender fluidity on the way. His preferred term for this is unisex. In other words, his men’s wear and women’s wear collections are not totally separate. The JW Anderson Autumn Winter 2013 menswear collection, for example, got The Daily Mail in quite a tizzy. The collection included a man-dress, shock horror, and the men’s suits which were partly based on a female pattern sported big sexy ruffles.

Jonathan said at the time that if he’d wanted to shock, he could easily have produced genuinely shocking work. In fact, his approach is more nuanced, about getting us to look beyond the gender labels in clothes. He says now: “I became obsessed by the shared wardrobe, with garments not seen as sexual, and tried to tackle them in a way that wasn’t gender coded.”

The inspiration for the ruffled men’s short suits is unexpected, as Jonathan explains: “I was looking at the history of men’s clothing and the Tudor period when clothing was very heavy and they used material like felt. It’s about status and power which is interesting as in a weird way over the last 100 years, menswear has been marginalised.” So the sixteenth century ruff that spelt out status became a stylish ruffle on the shorts. And the idea behind the dress for men came from the humble T-shirt. “I was thinking how girls wear T-shirts with leggings and wondered what would happen for guys if you did the same thing. I hoped to break down the taboo and how we see ourselves. That’s the joy of fashion. Anything is possible.” As David Bowie pointed out when questioned about the dress he wore on the album cover of The Man who Sold the World, it was a man’s dress. Jonathan gets the point: “Yes, Bowie was an incredible influence on fashion.”

Interestingly, Jonathan Anderson favours a more conventional form of dress himself, a uniform of grey T and jeans. Would he ever wear his own designs? “It’s psychological, I think. When you design something, it’s odd to put it on. It would be vanity and I need to become a blank canvas when I’m working.”

Jonathan originally became interested in design when he got into acting. He was encouraged to go onto a rugby pitch at the Rainey Endowed Grammar School in Magherafelt but the experience, while enjoyable, did not convert him to his father’s game. “I liked sport, it’s a natural thing, but as soon as I knew I wasn’t going to be the best, it was difficult to remain interested.”

He didn’t have the same problem when on a drama scholarship in the States. Costumes had instant appeal as Jonathan understood when in Washington DC performing in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. They made him realise what his future would be.

Although one of the world’s most innovative fashion names, Jonathan reveals that he still becomes nervous before a big catwalk show.

“I sometimes get nervous but you get used to it. Fashion shows are very short events after a lot of work. You’re open to the greater public and you get critiqued. Afterwards, there is quite a come-down.” Asked whether he reads the newspaper reviews of his shows, Jonathan says: “Until two years ago, I didn’t but then I wanted to know the names everyone was talking about.”

Family remains important to Jonathan and his mother went over to see his show during London Fashion Week. He adds: “My parents are a great influence. They’re also my biggest fans, which is humbling.” Jonathan says he enjoys returning to his original home near Magherafelt. “I love coming back and am always there for Christmas and at other times when my calendar permits. It reminds me of my childhood and it’s where my parents are.”

He employs his younger brother Thomas in a managerial role in charge of legal matters, operations and human resources. Working with family can pose its own problems.

Sounding amused, Jonathan remarks: “It’s not always easy but you do it and you’re dealing with people you trust.” On whether he is an

easy boss to work for, Jonathan says: “I’m probably not easy to work for as I am quite black and white. I expect a lot from people and from myself.”

Discussing creativity, Jonathan describes it as a potential weapon, presumably against those in power. “I do see myself as quite a political person. I come from Northern Ireland so it is important to me.” We discuss the recent elections. “I think we have entered a time when we are disenfranchised and are struggling with progress. There is a generational gap, ultimately (politicians) don’t talk to the younger generation about a lot of things.

There are fundamental human rights and we need to embrace the idea that there are rights for many different people.”

Jonathan goes on to defend his home patch.

“I love Northern Ireland and feel it is and isn’t behind the times. The modern world is especially challenging but we should remember one of the most inspiring people, Oscar Wilde, came from Ireland.” When not working, Jonathan Anderson relaxes in his newish weekend place in Norfolk.

“It’s two minutes away from the sea and when I am there, I can pretend I don’t work in fashion.”

He has a boyfriend who works in the arts and says that with their shared interest in the visual arts, it’s “a very good meeting of minds”.

Jonathan is a collector and owns glorious examples of English and European ceramics, including pots by two twentieth century greats, Austrian-born Lucie Rie and Bernard Leach of the St Ives School. When refurbishing Loewe’s shops, Jonathan has added modern 127

art and desirable furniture to the interiors. His impeccable taste is a professional asset. In terms of design heroes, Jonathan lists a couple. “Issey Miyake has technically changed fashion but in terms of brand support, I think Karl Lagerfeld of Chanel is worthy of respect.” Discussing the respective merits of London and Paris, he says diplomatically: “I quite enjoy being in both cities.

London has a different, more guttural type of fashion, it tries to take risks. Paris was the home of ready-to-wear but London has been pivotal in the past forty years with people like Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen.” And now Jonathan Anderson.

Charming and easy to talk to, Jonathan has wide interests. He says he loves music and name checks the contemporary minimalist composer Philip Glass. We bat about the question of Brexit and thinking as a businessman, he says that the impact of currency fluctuations has yet to hit. “It’s an odd thing and has become a numbing process. People voted but whether on the terms now on offer, maybe not. I run a business and it’s complicated.

It’s change but we have to get on with it.”

Change is also the life blood of design. If you look at this summer’s men’s collection, for example, skinny jeans have given way to widelegged trousers. They’re having a definite moment and relate to a memory of Jonathan’s.

“When I was young, I remember looking at AnOther magazine and seeing an amazing picture of a boy on a swing wearing superwide trousers. I thought ‘That’s what I want to do’ and it really had an impact on me. When you love fashion, things speak to you.”

LOOKING BACK ISSUE: THE FIRST ULSTER TATLER, 1966

NI PUBLICITY ASSOCIATION JUNE LUNCHEON Mr. Ted Jerran, Mr. John Caughey, chairman and Capt. Jack Millar, chief publicity officer for Aer Lingus, who was a guest speaker.

ARNOTT’S ADVERT Arnott’s Department Store was once located at High Street and Bridge Street.

BELFAST ROTARY CLUB MEETING Mr John Little (left) immediate past president, Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland and Bernard Lloyd.

THE ULSTER RUGBY SCENE

Robin Thompson shaking hands with Jean Prat, captain of French rugby team.

LADY OF THE MANOR Lady Kinahan with Emma (12), Danny (8), Harry (1), Vivienne (10) and Louise (14).

128

GOVERNMENT RECEPTION The Prime Minister, Capt. T. O’Neill and Lady MacDermott.

Ireland’s Original Kitchen Company

Visit our Showrooms: 1 Shaerf Drive, Lurgan, County Armagh BT66 8DD Tel: 028 3832 3296

21 Hamilton Road, Bangor, County Down BT20 4LF Tel: 028 3829 4898

email: mail@alwood.co.uk

www.alwoodkitchens.com

90 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Your wedding OUR EXPERTISE

galgorm.com