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

NOVEMBER 2025

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For the foodie Christmas is a time to eat, drink and be merry with those that mean the most. Choose from a decadent Afternoon Tea for Two in the elegant surroundings of the Conservatory or a Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two to add some sparkle to the occasion. Make an evening of it with the Dinner for Two voucher, which can be redeemed in Fratelli Ristorante, Gillies Restaurant or Castle Kitchen + Bar.

For the zen seekers We are all in need of some self-care and relaxation and the Thermal Spa Village has it all. Choose from day spa experiences or treat yourself to an overnight Spa staycation with the Spa Escape voucher – which includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Guestroom or unique Shepherd’s Hut for two people with Private Spa Experience, a 60 minute treatment for each guest, relaxation in the tranquil setting of the Thermal Spa Village, as well as a three course dinner and sumptuous breakfast.

For the luxury lovers For those who enjoy the finer things in life, the Two Night Dining Escape is the perfect choice for couples. Or why not let them select from an edit of exceptional experiences as you present them with a Galgorm Experience Voucher, including Luxury and Indulgent options. With experiences ranging from a rejuvenating Spa Day, complete with Riverside Bathing, and Thermal Spa Village relaxation with Spa lunch, to an overnight stay in an exclusive Shepherd’s Hut, you will be sure to delight with an Experience Gift Voucher.

For the one who has it all The one who has it all is arguably the trickiest person to satisfy when it comes to Christmas - there’s always one! Treat your loved one to a monetary gift voucher where they can choose their very own package at Galgorm.

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November 2025

CONTENTS

Features

COLUMNIST – PAUL HARRON On... Hotel Breakfasts

EMILY IN BELFAST Weekend Blues

COMPETITION: Holiday World

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Paul Brady

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS

REVIEW: The Morgan Hotel, Dublin

MY TOP TEN Jim Fitzpatrick

104

MY TOP TEN Janet Devlin

113

FOCUS ON: Dungannon & Moy

130

ARTS DIARY Kellie Burch

133

ULSTER IN BLOOM

140

FOCUS ON: 55 Years of Bowman Windows

144

LOOKING BACK November 2016

UT Style

132

This month's cover features singersongwriter, Janet Devlin who will be involved with the launch of the Galgorm Christmas campaign... coming soon. Check out pg104 for a profile with Janet. Galgorm 136 Fenaghy Road, Galgorm, BT42 1EA T: 028 2588 1001 www.galgorm.com

STYLE WATCH

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

Keep In Touch With Ulster Tatler At:

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Fear of Music

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry DIGITAL MARKETING & SALES MANAGER: Julie Patterson

ow and again, to escape the daily grind of the working week, my wife and I try to nip out for an impromptu bite to eat. More often than not we end up having pub grub. Of late, however, our outings have coincided with the arrival of the resident musician. Now don’t get me wrong – I love music. In fact, it’s one of my main interests outside of work. I have a real passion for it; I am constantly seeking out new artists and gigs. You would think that the thought of live music in a bar would be something that I would relish. Definitely not. I often find it jarring, especially in the early evening. In the right context, i.e. later in the evening at a concert of my choosing, it can work brilliantly. The live music that really bugs me is when a guitarist with a PA system starts blasting out cover versions at about 7 pm on a Wednesday evening when the mood is pretty subdued. There is absolutely no need for it and it kills off any conversation. It must also be disheartening for the musicians, who play on regardless and are largely ignored. We are usually long gone before they have got to their rendition of American Pie. QUOTE FOR THE MONTH

“Indeed, revenge is always the pleasure of a paltry, feeble, tiny mind.”

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COLUMN November 2025

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... Hotel Breakfasts Is there anyone who can t find some joy in a hotel breakfast? I consider them to be one of life’s greatest treats, although because I indulge in them relatively rarely, I feel like I’m living someone else’s life – like some sort of Leopold Bloom character in a novel when I find myself in a hotel dining room consuming one. My love affair with the hotel breakfast was, however, rekindled this year in Kilkenny. We’d dropped Third Son off to Dublin airport for a Uni term in Chile (the bureaucratic hurdles of which are still occasionally resurfacing in my dreams) at a truly ungodly hour and then drove to start our holiday with a night ‘down south’, arriving at that medieval city at dawn when no-one was stirring. An uncomfortable short nap in the car was followed by a blearyeyed morning walk along the river with views across to a big old-school hotel where guests were visibly starting to muster for the morning repast. Could non-residents rock up for breakfast there, we wondered, or were we destined to search for coffee and a scone when a cafe opened? It turned out that non-residents could certainly purchase breakfast for a not unreasonable sum and so we duly found ourselves being shown to a table – admittedly not one with a view of the river as I’d hoped but one with a view of an impressive buffet of hot and cold options. Now the one pitfall of this hotel buffet arrangement, for me at least, less so my self-controlled better half (BH), is FOMO (fear of missing out). What should I start with? It would be wrong, surely, not to have a bowl of cereal before the fry-up. A bit of every cereal going – and granola – found its way into a bowl ... and wouldn’t some yoghurt and fruit on the side go lovely with that too? Back to the table and, yes, I would like a pot of tea and a couple of rounds of that special hotel-white-bread toast and marmalade, thanks (and I’ll try the little Nutella portion on the second round and have some of that honey on the yoghurt, since it’s there). BH remarked that there must be some unresolved childhood issue

Illustration by Megan Rafferty.

in how I went so into overdrive, intensified by the approach taken to the hot selection (she’s probably right). Sausage, bacon, black pudding, fried egg, scrambled egg, fried tomato, potato bread and a hash brown all found their way from the hot-plates with their quirky Downton-Abbey-esque springloaded lids onto my platter. In fairness, I left the mushrooms, white pudding and beans undisturbed. I believe I may even have returned for a further sausage; although I didn’t succumb to the ‘continental’ array of mini-croissants and Danish pastries. Honestly, I’m not especially proud of myself but I could hardly get up from the table, and it took a little bit (half an hour) of a sit-down in the lounge (‘just to look over the tourist map’) before being able to walk around the town with its two cathedrals, castle and quaint gardens and shops. Thereafter, our holiday in France also had several hotel/guest house breakfast highlights, including surprisingly excellent breakfast buffets on the overnight boat, which I thin can be classified as a oating hotel’, there and back. In one especially charming chambre d’hote, we had the most fantastic hostess who offered everything one could possibly think of for a breakfast, from cheeses and cold meats to fresh bread and croissants to eggs and homemade conserves and chutneys. She explained that in her experience, the Italians like sweet

things for le petit dejeuner, the French prefer savoury while the Brits and Irish like ...both I felt obliged to confirm that notion for her. All this, incidentally, was served at a big long table (Belgians on one side, a French family on the other) under the watchful eyes of an enormous stuffed boar head above the fire lace, a tro hy earned by her seemingly mild-mannered, jocular husband in his youth. Boar was not, it has to be said, on the breakfast menu. Even breakfasts in the quite basic travel motels, which France does so well, proved to be jolly affairs. One thing to watch though: keep a close eye on the egg you choose to boil in the communal bain marie as mix-ups can happen; BH ended up with an inedible undercooked one while an earnest father of two little girls, with a keenness for showing them how to make and dip ‘soldiers’ had swiped her overcooked one (which proved unwilling terrain into which toast could be dunked). A friend of mine, a medical consultant, no less, told me once that he and his physician friends have a ‘Rate My Fry’ WhatsApp group, sharing pictures of their rashers, hash browns and perfect poachers at weekends. I ta e this as sublime confirmation that fancy breakfasts can be considered good for you in every sense and so I’m looking forward to my next opportunity to indulge. Suggestions welcome.

THIS MONTH’S OBSESSIONS: HANDEL’S MESSIAH — Handel’s Messiah is a thrilling musical masterpiece, perfect in the run-up to Christmas. The Ulster Consort performs it brilliantly and it’s time to book one of their two concerts before they sell out – Ballymena on 28th November and Holywood on the 29th. Check out eventbrite.co.uk

BLUE LIGHTS — I’m enjoying the latest BBC series of Blue Lights. Great dialogue and acting and fun to try to spot the recognisable locations. Favourite phrase: ‘You’re in my little black book under legend’.

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Josh Casey and Selina Hatchell.

Jade Strain, Adriana Petrese, Natasha Cullen, Kelly Kane and Naomi Taylor.

Wendy Fleck, Glen Boyd and Helen Henry.

Pete and Julia Snodden, Laura Millar and Colin Johnston.

William Montgomery, James Walker, Kevin Chan, Claire McVeigh, Elaine Montgomery and Georgie Briota.

Adriana Petrese and Natasha Cullen.

GALGORM COLLECTION CHARITY BALL

Ashley Douglas, Helen Metcalfe and Colin Wright.

Galgorm Collection held their 3rd annual Charity Gala Ball on Saturday 11th October in the Great Hall at Galgorm in support of three incredible charities: Simon Community, Community Rescue Service and the NI Hospitality School. Galgorm has had a close partnership with the Simon Community and Community Rescue Service for a number of years, supporting their vital work in our communities and more recently with the NI Hospitality School, which trains and inspires the next generation of hospitality professionals. The evening was hosted by Cool FM’s Pete Snodden with various fundraising activities throughout the evening, followed by live music from Anthem. Continued on page 22.

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Chloe Perry, Rachael Lennox, Holly Carson, Molly Carton and Darcy Jones.

Ashley Douglas, Kristine Graham and Norman McBride.

Catherine Henicke, Jacinta Faulkner and Karen O’Neill.

Elaine Forsythe and Lynsey Colhoun.

Jayne and Mark McKewon.

Fionnuala and Paul Brennan, Seamus and Claire McGuckin, Mark and Jayne McKeown, Cahill and Andrea Elston.

Elaine Kelly and Georgie Briota.

Sarah Connolly, Aaron Klewchuk, Charlotte McClean, Ruairi and Elaine Hamill.

Continued from page 20.

C R E AT I N G T H E M O S T E X C E P T I O N A L H O M E S ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR DESIGN W W W. K R I S T U R N B U L L . C O M

ROYAL SUPPORT FOR NIFRS TRAINING The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service had the honour of welcoming the Prince and Princess of Wales to the newly opened Learning & Development College in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone. The visit highlighted the organisation’s commitment to excellence in training and community safety, as well as the professionalism and dedication of NIFRS personnel. Coinciding with Fire Safety Week, the occasion underscored the importance of continual learning, preparedness and collaboration in safeguarding lives and supporting communities across Northern Ireland.

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M A DE B E SP O K E W I T H FA B R I CS F RO M DES IGN ERS G UI LD , KVA DR AT AND TH E R OM O G RO UP

RSUA President John Lavery, Architecture Night host Mark Simpson and RSUA Director Ciarán Fox.

Alan and Jane Ritchie, Charlotte King and Des McCall.

William Brady, Jenny Speirs and Aimee Brookes.

RSUA Director Ciarán Fox, Peter Hutchinson, Ciaran McConnell and RSUA President John Lavery.

Michael Doherty, Angus Kerr and Graeme Skelly.

Aga Rutkowska and Karen Argue.

Caitlin Paxton and Ceara Welshman.

ARCHITECTURE NIGHT

Jayne McFaul and Sharon Hare.

Gerry Murray and Michael Montgomery.

On Friday 17 October, the former Good Shepherd Convent on Belfast’s Ormeau Road was the venue for Architecture Night 2025. The Royal Society of Ulster Architect’s (RSUA) annual event is all about shining a light on buildings that are not currently in use. The evening, led by long-standing host Mark Simpson, recognised the importance of non-architects to architecture through the announcement of two new honorary members and celebrated the new generation of architectural talent represented by both students and architects at the early stage of their careers.

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1995 QUB Medical School graduates.

Peter and Tori Ball, Susan and Tim McAdam.

Louise Dunlop and Karen Howard.

Dr Jeremy McCammon and Lina Bolckaite.

Appu Rudralingam and Keith Trimble.

Suzanne Matthews and Claire Harrison.

Carol Keys, Paul McGlinchey, Jenny Hughes.

CLASS OF ‘95 REUNION The Titanic Hotel Belfast was the setting for the QUB 30 year Medical and Dental Reunion on Saturday 11 October 2025. Over 120 former classmates and guests gathered for an evening of reminiscing, reconnecting and celebrating. Attendees travelled from as far away as Canada as well as from all over the UK and Ireland. Speeches were delivered by Dr Rick Plumb, Dr Jeremy McCammon and by the organisers Dr Claire Harrison and Dr Suzanne Matthews. In the year that Queen’s University Belfast celebrates its 180th anniversary, it was certainly a night to remember! ‘ 28

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90 YEARS IN THE MAKING

05/10/2023 15:58

John and Jo-Anne Dobson with Jeff and Elaine McCartney and Neil Aicken and Gina Moss at Kidney Care Gala.

Grace Cullen, Billy Cullen and Joanne Cullen.

Carrie Lyness, Stephen Topping and Amy Smith.

Jasmine Williams, Barbara Wilson, Jo-Anne Dobson and Claire Madison.

Pictured with Stephen Watson are Paul Bristow, Chief Executive Kidney Care UK and Kidney Care Ambassadors Jo-Anne Dobson and Andrew Cromwell.

Corecom Tech Academy at the Kidney Care Gala.

John and Rebecca Cochran.

KIDNEY CARE UK GALA DINNER

Nadine Curran and Imogen Darragh.

The Kidney Care UK Gala Dinner took place at Titanic Belfast on Friday 3rd October. The event, which was hosted by BBC NI sports presenter and kidney recipient, Stephen Watson, included transplant recipients, donors, supporters and friends, and saw the launch of the annual ‘Stephen Watson Kidney Hero Award’. The dinner was opened by Kidney Care UK charity ambassadors Jo-Anne Dobson and Andrew Cromwell who highlighted the work of the charity in supporting people living with kidney disease across Northern Ireland. Alicia McWilliams and Gary Askin. 30

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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

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November 2025

E M I LY I N B E L FA S T EDITED BY EMILY HANNA, VAVA INFLUENCE

Weekend Blues Welcome back to Emily in Belfast! We’re well and truly into the autumn months, and while the temptation to curl up and hibernate is strong, I’ve found the perfect alternative. The perfect way to spend a Sunday in Belfast? Tucked inside Napoleon’s Nose Lounge at The Harrison on Malone Road, sipping on craft cocktails, French martinis, specifically, listening to Grammy-award-winning jazz. It doesn’t get any better than that. This month I escaped the October drizzle for a Jazz Brunch featuring soulful sounds from the incredibly talented Kaidi Tatham, Ben Flavelle-Cobain and Zac Irvine. We ducked into The Harrison and wandered down a fur coat-lined corridor – Narnia, if you will – before emerging into a bar alive with colours, patterns, and of course, jazz. The Harrison manages to strike the perfect balance of effortless elegance and homely charm; welcoming but full of personality. We were greeted with bubbles on arrival, followed by delicious charcuterie boards. (I don’t accept bribes, but if I did, olives and brie would do the trick.) The trio’s soulful, smooth sound paired perfectly with the atmosphere of this self-professed ‘bohemian bolthole’. Colour, character and charcuterie, soundtracked by music that feels alive. We drank up the music (and of course the cocktails) all afternoon, from 1 until 4, truly feeling as though time had stopped altogether. There’s something about jazz on a rainy Sunday that feels truly cinematic, as if you’ve stepped into an old classic. So next time the weekend blues threaten to set in, let Belfast’s jazz scene carry you away. Keep up to date on Jazz Brunches and much more by following @ theharrisonbelfast on Instagram or checking out their events page over at: https://www.chambersofdistinction.com/events Until next month, Emily.

The Winner Takes It All Ulster Tatler had the honour of sponsoring and presenting the award for ‘Best Influencer Under 50K’ at the recent VAVA awards. The deserving winner for 2025 was content creator Lyndsay Butler who has taken Tiktok by storm and has now amassed over 51,000 followers on the platform. Her honest, witty and authentic daily blogs, takeaway reviews and fashion inspiration provides her audience with an insight into her life, but most of all, her captivating personality has won over our hearts.

Lyndsay Butler pictured with Ulster Tatler’s Richard Sherry.

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Iris Clarke President, Mary Sands Chair, Liz Dempsey Vice-Chair and Brendan McGlone Secretary.

Marie Magill, Margaret Rainey, Iris Clarke, Gillian Neill, Brendan McGlone, Maureen Clements, Mary Sands, Barbara Beattie, Annette Currie, Liz Dempsey.

T.P. Sheehy, Margaret Rainey, Clodagh Good, Rev. Harold Good, Maureen Clements, Barbara Beattie and Martin O’Brien.

Clodagh Good, President Iris Clarke and Ann Stevenson.

RETIRED TEACHERS AGM The Retired Teachers Association NI (RTANI) held its 83rd AGM at the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown on 8th October at which Rev. Harold Good OBE, in conversation with co-author Martin O’Brien, addressed the audience and signed copies of his book, In Good Time. Representatives from UTU, INTO and RTAI updated attendees with developments within the profession. Clodagh Good, President Iris Clarke and Rev Harold Good.

RTAI Gen. Sec. John O’Brien, Anne Liggett, Chair INTO Martin Lavery, President UTU Janice Mullan, Chair RTANI Mary Sands and Robert Clarke.

Carol Spratt, Gloria and Jim Garrett, Betty Young and Amy Strain.

Lesley Flack, Cookstown Bookseller TP Sheehy and Margaret Rainey.

Mary McGuigan, Maire McGrath, Monica Dynan, Roisin Watters and Jon Watters. 34

Back: Kristine Morgan, Leah Gregg, Adam Pentland; Front: Ricky Crooks, John Bradford, Tim Beattie, Simon McMullen.

Back: Robert Johnston, Ben Jennett, Jane McLeese, Paul McCrea; Front: Rachel McIntyre, Emma McNeilly, Mark Barr.

Back: Karen Lennon, Edd Brown; Front: David Johnston, Fiona Smith, John Boland, Vigel Morgan.

Mairead Andrew, John Graham and Tim Andrew.

Susan Andrew and Claire Andrew.

Back: Gerry Murray, Colin Lavery, Kevin Hughes; Front: Andrew Winnington, Gill Cowan, Linzi Bradford, Trisha Beattie.

Lenka Currie and Claire Watts. Back: Lenka Currie, Paul Laffin, Rhianna Ringland, Gina Auld; Front: Emmett Logue, Tim Andrew, Mairead Andrew.

Back: David Moore, Jim Moore, Josh Baitson; Front: Claire Watts, Sammy Adams, Jane McLeese. Darran Ringland and Rhianna Ringland.

John Boland and Simon McMullen.

Linzi Adams and Timothy Beattie.

Jane McLeese and Leah Gregg.

Susan, Tim and Claire Andrew.

Kristine Morgan, Lenka Currie, Gill Cowan and Jane McLeese. Tim and Mairead Andrew.

Back: Andrey Sotnikov, Andrew Henderson, Jamesy Adams; Front: Susan Andrew, Claire Andrew, Aiden Cronin and Darran Ringland.

At a glittering evening in The Merchant Hotel, Skipper Street — the very location where it all began 80 years ago — the team at Andrew Ingredients came together to celebrate eight decades of success, innovation, and community. From humble Belfast beginnings to becoming a leading supplier across the UK and Ireland, this family-founded company has risen through passion, quality, and dedication. Surrounded by colleagues old and new, the night was a toast to tradition, teamwork, and the bright future ahead — proof that the secret ingredient to success is always the people behind it.

Valerie, Sam and Craig Holmes.

B I rincipal Janet Sotonye- rank, ory

illiamson congratulates prize-winners from last year’s ear Itekena c lhinney, icah alsh, dam Binu, ark Grant and ax oebnau.

Emma O’Donnell, Deputy Head of Inchmarlo, previous ead Teacher at Inchmarlo, ndrea orwood , B I rincipal Janet illiamson and outgoing Head of School, George Craigan.

Maureen Todd, Mark Clark, Sebastian and Felix Clark, Michelle Clark and Brian Todd.

RBAI PRIZE DISTRIBUTION 2025: A DAY OF PRIDE, PRIZE-WINNERS AND POIGNANT FAREWELLS

Sharon, Noah and Michael Titterington.

The Royal Belfast Academical Institution’s 2025 Prize Distribution was a memorable celebration of achievement and success. Under the theme “INST is Global”, we honoured the accomplishments of our remarkable pupils, past and present. We were privileged to welcome respected alumnus and playwright Mr. David Ireland as our guest of honour. In an inspiring address, he encouraged students to recognise their otential and shared how his assion for drama was first s ar ed on the very ommon all stage from which he resented the array of ri es. he creator of I s old ater, r. Ireland, utterly ca tivated the audience with his humility and wit. he occasion was also oignant as it mar ed the final ri e Distribution for our dedicated Principal, Ms. Williamson, who will retire in June. Her remarkable vision, dedicated service and the lasting legacy she has built will be deeply missed by the entire school community.

mma O’ onnell, eputy ead of Inchmarlo, ntoinette c ichael, irector of usic at Inchmarlo, isitor of the ay, ctor and playwright David Ireland, Kim McClean, Head of Drama, Blanche Gallaher, English Department and Kerry Gilmore, Head of English.

B I rincipal Janet illiamson with Nicholas and Claire Shaw.

The oyal Belfast cademical Institution’s annual prize distribution took place on 38

th October.

B I oundation Chairman James utherford with ctor and playwright avid Ireland.

Darcey Kelly and mum Gillian Kelly.

Board of Governors Chair Miss S. Rosemary Rainey OBE with Principal Dr Frances Vasey, guest speaker and former pupil Mr David Ferguson and Education Authority Chief Executive Mr Richard Pengelly CB.

Sisters Eva and Ruby Royal.

GROSVENOR GRAMMAR PRIZE DISTRIBUTION On Wednesday 8th October, Grosvenor Grammar School was delighted to welcome Mr David Ferguson, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Civil Service Sports Association and former pupil, as guest speaker at its annual prize distribution ceremony. Along with speeches from the Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Miss S. Rosemary Rainey OBE, and Principal Dr Frances Vasey, those in attendance enjoyed Mr Ferguson’s engaging address, including his own memories of his time at Grosvenor Grammar School. The event provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate another year of superb all-round achievement at the school, during which time its pupils have continued to enjoy a plethora of academic and extracurricular successes.

Lexie Duncan and mum Andrea Duncan.

Noah Marrs with parents Cheryl and Nigel.

Guest speaker and former pupil, Mr David Ferguson from NI Civil Service Sports Association.

Mr Peter Thompson, Harry Scott and Mr Mark McDowell.

School Principal Dr Frances Vasey with former Principal Mr John Lockett OBE.

Abbie Carson with parents Andrew and Jane Carson.

Louise Henderson, Judith Martin, Leanne Brannigan and Lee-Ann Gregson.

Sonia Armstrong, Ross Freeman, Nicole Kelly and Anna McKelvey from Belfast City Airport.

Elaine Scally, Samantha Lynas, Katrina Schnell, Fiona Dennison and Catherine Crawford from Q Radio.

PANI Chair Nicola Davis with Mark Pearson and James Stinson from OFCOM.

PANI Chair Nicola Davis, Tony Axon and Karin Jeffrey.

Stephen Roycroft and David McGrath.

Emily Bain and Gavin Clements.

PANI BUSINESS BREAKFAST he latest findings from the edia ations e ort were resented by fcom at the tormont otel for the annual I usiness rea fast. he findings included interesting research on our changing viewing and listening habits, along with revenue and e enditure trends.

Jack Walker and Ruth Lavery.

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Gareth Hetherington and Janet Williamson (Head of RBAI).

Hugh Logan (URL Past president ) Barney McGonigle, Ian Ilwrath, Linda Graham, Dr. John O’Driscoll (President of IRFU) and Ian Graham Jim Neilly (URL Past president).

Campbell Malseed, Davy Preece,Vaughan Monroe, Paula Elliott and John Elliott.

Garth Pepper, Philip Jordan, Jonathan Millar and Russel Dickson.

Ian Craig and Les McCracken.

Nigel Simpson , Barbara Dyer, Margaret Simpson, Marsha McKendry and Ruth Hagan.

LUNCHEON WITH DR JOHN O’DRISCOLL The Ulster Reform Club had the honour of hosting Dr John O’Driscoll, President of the Irish Rugby Football Union (2025 - 2026) and former Ireland and ritish Irish ions an er, as guest s ea er at its recent s orting luncheon. In an engaging conversation with the ast resident, r im eilly , Dr Driscoll re ected u on his distinguished rugby career, recalling notable international achievements and his enduring commitment to the s ort. he occasion roved both enlightening and most enjoyable for all in attendance.

Gary Murphy, Bill Morrison, Colin Dunwoody and Mark Cartmill.

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Eamon and Patricia O’Neill with Jean-Baptiste Soulier from Chateau Rouget.

Craig Walker, Jenni Irwin and Danielle Campbell (Robert Neill Wine, Groomsport).

Adrian Quinn, Louise Vance and Nicholas Santier (Chateau Pichon Baron).

Jordan and Lauren Coffey.

Natalie and Jamie Farley.

Clifford and Catherine Lowry.

Michael Mulgrew (The Wine Rack) and Robert Neill.

BORDEAUX SHOWCASE

Clementine Clervil (Schroder & Schyler) and Michael Mulgrew (The Wine Rack).

n uesday th ctober, wine enthusiasts across Ireland descended on the erchant otel in elfast for the ordeau howcase Ireland . he event, organised by he ine ac , obert eill ine, ughes of amlough and he intage ine erchants, brought together of the to ordeau hateau in Ireland for the first time. early attendees had an o ortunity to sam le wines and meet with re resentatives from esteemed estates, including h teau ichon aron and os d stournel, as well as the celebrated estates of Irish heritage including h teau eoville arton and h teau irwan. he wines tasted on the night are available to urchase at thewinerac ni. co.u and neillwine.co.u

Michael and Claire Reid.

Andrew Kirkpatrick, James Montgomery, Ben Wall, David McCormick.

Gerry O’Connor, Nick Brennan and Kirby O’Connor.

Gilah Greig.

Rudi Wilson, Lucy Arthur, Ben Wall, Ben Wilkinson.

Dean Patterson.

BOYD RICE SOLICTORS OPENS NEW BELFAST OFFICE Boyd Rice Solicitors proudly marked the opening of their third office, situated on the Lisburn Road, Belfast, with a stylish launch event at the Chubby Cherub. Building on the success of its Newtownards and Bangor branches, the firm welcomed clients, partners and new neighbours to celebrate this exciting milestone. Guests enjoyed a warm reception and the opportunity to connect with the team behind Boyd Rice’s continued growth. The new office reflects the firm’s commitment to delivering its best-in-class client care in a location convenient to its expanding Belfast clientele base.

Sam Mulholland, Aimee O’Reilly, David McCormick.

Des and Patricia McGranaghan.

Demi Mills, Lauren Haire, Sophie Ballantine, Sharon Boyd.

Kris Gaw, Heather McConaghie, Ben Wall.

Levi Forbes and Ben Wall.

Daryl Scott, Mark Crawford, Daniel Toney.

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WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO HOLIDAY WORLD SHOW

Ulster Tatler has teamed up with the 33rd annual Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News to give readers the chance to win one of TEN FAMILY TICKETS to Northern Ireland’s biggest celebration of travel and tourism. Taking place in the ICC Belfast at The Waterfront Hall from Friday January 9 until Sunday January 11, 2026, Holiday World is a three-day event that brings a world of travel under one roof for a weekend of holiday inspiration, expert advice and exclusive offers. From sun-soaked escapes, USA expeditions and cruise adventures to family breaks and staycations, the show is a ‘one-stop shop’ for holidaymakers, connecting them with trusted travel professionals and giving visitors a chance to check out the latest holiday trends and bag an exclusive bargain in the process. What better way to kick off 2026 than to start planning your dream holiday at Holiday World with a huge choice of travel options at home and abroad, featuring international tourist boards, holiday companies and travel operators, hotels and B&Bs, visitor attractions, travel agencies and service providers – as well as dedicated Cruise and USA pavilions and a Home Holiday Showcase. For a chance to win a family ticket for two adults and two children, simply answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@ulstertatler.com by midnight on December 20, 2025. Q: Where in Belfast will the 2026 Holiday World Show take place from January 9–11? For more information on Holiday World Belfast, visit https://holidayworldshowni.com/.

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Rosaleen Murray, Bernie McKenna, Dolores Mohan and Mary Gatt.

Graeme Kelly, Paula Murray, Rosaleen and Jim Murray.

Gerard Mulhern, Ken Wall, Donna McMullan, Mark Mallon, Andrea Lowe, Barbara O’Brien and Fiona Loughran.

Rosaleen and Jim Murray.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Rosaleen Murray recently celebrated her 70th birthday in style with her husband Jim at a surprise birthday party held in The Doyen, Belfast. Surrounded by family and friends from far and wide to mark the special occasion, the evening was full of happiness and heartfelt moments, perfectly capturing the love and admiration everyone has for Rosaleen. Guests danced the night away to her favourite songs.

Jess Harper and Eoin Roberts.

Paula and Rosaleen Murray.

Rosaleen Murray and Gerry Armstrong.

Conall Roberts and Niamh Keane.

Proprietor and chef Azad Miah (sitting) pictured with staff.

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Wallace High School Preparatory Department OPEN DAY Wednesday 3rd December, 1.30pm - 3pm

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success rate of P7 pupils moving on to grammar school

Olga Bamford, Carol Campbell, Jackie Reid and Lady Captain Barbara Smallwoods.

Lorraine’s son Michael (middle), Darren Jackson and Marcus Benkirane.

Lorraine pictured with her daughter Kristine McKee, husband Billy and son Michael.

Bert Gault, Michael McGivern, Geordie Campbell, Drew Bamford and Alan Reid.

CELEBRATING A ROYAL ACCOLADE A celebration was held at Carrickfergus Golf Club for Lorraine Gibson who was awarded the British Empire Medal in the King’s New Year Honours list. She was recognised for services to nursing older people with dementia and to children with learning difficulties. arric fergus orraine ibson has been branded a ”pillar of the health and social care community” and was deeply honoured and humbled to receive the award. Lorraine was joined by family, friends, fellow award recipients, nursing colleagues and golf friends, some of whom travelled from far and wide to enjoy the night of celebrations.

Lord Lieutenant of Co Antrim Mr. David McCorkhill presenting Lorraine with her BEM at Hillsborough Castle. The family later attended a wonderful day at Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

Lorraine’s son Michael and granddaughter Gracie Gibson.

Award recipients: Diane Tregaskis-Sloan BEM, Jacqueline Stewart MBE DL, Lorraine Gibson BEM, Wg Cdr Noel Williams BEM and Gwen Robb BEM all shared in the pride of their distinguished achievements.

Golfing friends nne Greer, Joyce Graham and Beatrice McQuitty with Dave and Sally Haggan.

Leigh and Norman Kernaghan with Fran and Billy Robinson.

Lorraine’s brother and sister-in-law, former Mayor and Mayoress of Mid & East Antrim, Wg Cdr Noel Williams BEM and wife Sheila.

Lorraine’s granddaughter Jessica McKee with nieces Dr Erin Hainey and Stef Williams.

Friends Claire Millar, Sinead Miller, Kristine McKee, Kerry Coulter and Julie Cooper.

The Brennan family, long-time friends of the Williams family, travelled from near and far to be with Lorraine for the evening: Joyce and Bill Gillyon, Karen Russell, Andy Brennan with Moyra and Pete Atken.

riends Jean Ginder and nn orans made the journey from England to be part of the memorable evening.

Golfing friends enjoy the event Judith de leury, Janet Robinson and Michelle Donald.

Lorraine’s daughter and family: Jessica, Colin, ristine, Chris, infield Striker and annah c ee.

orraine’s long-standing friend iz ower joined her and her siblings, Terence Williams, Barrie Williams, Doris Close and Noel Williams BEM.

Pictured with Lorraine are her nursing colleague’s from August 1981 School of Nursing intake, Elaine Heron, Suzanna Dogherty, Barbara-Ann Maguire, Ann Higgins, Nurse Tutor Jimmy McAllister, Pauline McAuley and Pamela Mulholland. Many travelled great distances from across the UK and beyond, including Turkey and the Republic of Ireland. 57

Ellis and Barrie Williams (brother and sisterin-law of orraine with their daughter r Erin Hainey, travelled from Scotland.

Pat and Bert Gault.

Patricia Breslin, Vincent Devenney, Lisa Darby.

Mandy and Declan Meenan.

67TH PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL DINNER The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce’s 67th President’s Annual Dinner, held at the Everglades Hotel, is a highlight of the north west’s business calendar. This renowned event brings together leaders and innovators from across the region, offering valuable networking opportunities, engaging conversations, and a chance to celebrate Derry’s dynamic business community. Ellen Drumm, Orfhlaith McGee, Denise McQuaid.

Megan McGuinness and Mandy Meenan.

Eimear Gillen and Beth Harkin.

Gillian Armstrong, Angela McGowan and Kathy Regan.

Sam Denning & Alannah Hood.

Class of 1994.

Emma, Jen and John Welshman.

Methody Collegians Council.

Former teacher guest speakers.

METHODY COLLEGIANS 90TH ANNUAL DINNER 11th October 2025 saw Methody Collegians welcome guests back to the Whitla Hall in the College. Amongst the alumni and teachers gathered from across the decades, there were reunion groups from classes of 1975, 1980, 1991 and 1994, all bound together by their time spent at Methody. Time had passed, but the laughter, stories, bonds and memories had not faded. One school, many paths and one unforgettable night.

Class of 1975.

Elaine and Heather, Class of 1986.

Principal and Assistant Principal.

Former Presidents.

The Word

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The Lasting Power of Legacies When someone chooses to leave a gift in their Will to Queen’s University Belfast, it is an investment in the future of education and research in Northern Ireland. One of nine women in a class of 60, Dr Claire Slattery graduated in Medicine from Queen’s in 1962. She went on to become a consultant in the highly com etitive field of Paediatrics and was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

Part of the Part of the

A proud alumna and passionate medic, Claire left a generous gift in her ill to ueen s to su ort undergraduate medical students with their tuition fees, s ecifically those who do an additional year of study to explore an area of medicine in greater depth.

Part of the

Part of the Part of the

Her legacy will help to prevent a future shortage of medical educators by encouraging and supporting students to pursue academic careers. Dr Slattery’s niece, also named Claire, believes that her aunt would be delighted with how her gift is being used lthough she came from humble beginnings, my aunt had the opportunity to pursue her dream, and with a lot of hard work was able to reach the highest level of her career. I think she would have wanted others to have the same opportunities, without any financial burden. ith her gift being used in this way, her assion for edicine will be remembered and continued through future generations.” For more information on leaving a gift in your Will to Queen’s, contact Louise Carey at l.carey@qub.ac.uk or visit go.qub.ac.uk/legacy-gift.

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November 2025

INTERVIEW

The Songwriters’ Songwriter Jane Hardy chats to Paul Brady about having Dylan as a fan, not being a pop star and scuba diving.

written with Andy Irvine. In Dylan’s booklet accompanying a box set, that quote appeared. I was pleased — more than pleased.” The two eventually met. “I had a request to meet Dylan when he was playing Wembley. I met him backstage before the gig, when everyone’s wound up. It was very surreal, but he was accessible. I even played a couple of my songs on his old Gibson guitar.” Asked how a song begins, Brady pauses thoughtfully. “There’s no set formula. Sometimes an idea comes, then six months later it returns. But sometimes they never get finished. I don’t know where songs come from, but once I’ve got the initial idea, I usually know how to finish it from that first spark.” He has done it successfully, time after time. The Island (1985) is perhaps his best-known song, an essential part of his live set. Its opening lines: They say the skies of Lebanon are burning / Those mighty cedars bleeding in the heat … And we’re still at it in our own place / Still trying to reach the future through the past… — capture a haunting ambiguity. “I was very conflicted about what was happening in Northern Ireland,” he says. “It’s an ambivalent song, expressing what I felt at the time. A lot of my songs are positive in expression, but The Island is an exception. I’m not a political writer, though — I’m mostly interested in people and how they relate to each other.” Brady knew he was musical from an early age — a bit of a prodigy, in fact. “My mother says I was singing hit songs — Vera Lynn’s Now Is the Hour — at eighteen months. At four or five I taught myself piano. Music was my best friend. I was a loner as a child, and it was a comfort to me. I spent a lot of time on it.” At St. Columb’s College in Derry, Brady studied classical music. “No teacher singled me out, and I wasn’t encouraged to consider music as a career.” At that time, he explains, there was no musical infrastructure — not until artists like Thin Lizzy and Van Morrison came along. “My only option would have been to join a showband.” Later, while studying at University College Dublin, his passion remained undimmed. “I was swept up in the folk boom of the ’50s,” he says. He played in a band called The Johnstons, and one of his early

aul Brady, the songwriters’ songwriter, is the recipient of the 2025 Ulster Tatler Lifetime Achievement Award. Speaking down the line from Dublin, Brady says he’s happy. “It’s always nice to be acknowledged for the work you’ve done, especially in your own part of the world.” Brady has a significant fan base — one that includes Bob Dylan. On the cover of his autobiography Crazy Dreams, Brady features a quote from the American icon: “Some guys got it down – Leonard Cohen, Paul Brady, Lou Reed.” The praise came about through a third party. “It happened back in the mid-’80s,” Brady recalls. “Bob Dylan was very friendly with another folk singer in Greenwich Village called Happy Traum. Happy was a big fan of Irish folk songs, and I had an album out in the early ’80s that he played to Bob. It contained ‘Arthur McBride’,

Paul picking up his ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the recent Ulster Tatler Awards. Pictured with Ulster Tatler’s Chris Sherry and Ulster Tatler Awards host, Pamela Ballantine. 62

BY JANE HARDY

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

I don’t know where songs come from, but once I’ve got the initial idea, I usually know how to finish it from the first spark. Image: presseye.com

eople had to work a bit to get aul Brady, and the ’ s were frustrating, though successful.” is songs have been covered by artists such as Santana, ric Clapton, Cli ichard, ina urner, Carole ing, onan eating — and even Bob Dylan, who recorded traditional songs arranged by Brady. “Over the years, I’ve written around a hundred covers,” he says. ecent pro ects include collaborations with poet aul Muldoon “ e’ve already recorded those” and singer songwriter Matt Mc inn. “ e’s from the younger generation — a very good writer.” Brady also recalls co writing with the legendary Carole ing. “She’s a straightforward, honest woman with great talent and a love of people. She makes it easy — no attitude, treated me as an equal.” A family man, Brady has two children — Sarah, based in Surrey, and Colin, who lives in New ealand — and five grandchildren Lyra , Sean , inn , Leo , and Olive . Music runs in the family. “Lyra sings, plays piano and guitar, and the boys are in a school band in New ealand.” heir grandfather is still on the road. “I en oy it — but I only do stu I want to do.” inancially, the covers and collaborations have served him well. “I bought my first house from my folk career, and my second from the covers,” he laughs. Brady has lived in Dublin since the s — “not for any dark or political reason. I ust like it. e’re close to the sea, and I’m a bit of a water baby.” e still swims regularly and recently returned from ten days’ scuba diving in the ed Sea. “ ortunately, I can still do it. ou see so much life under the surface — and I love the sense of weightlessness, like flying.”

songs, Brightness She Came, became his first recording. “It took me out of a bad place and was about how I felt.” In the late ’ s, Brady spent two to three years on the east coast of America — “not a great period,” he admits. e returned home for Christmas to see the girl who became his wife. “Mary lliott — she still is — and I wrote a love song for her.” In London with he ohnstons, Brady and the band scored a number one hit with wan MacColl’s The Travelling People. hat success led to a trip to New ork, which unfortunately coincided with a fuel shortage. “It hit the manufacture of vinyl records.” Still, he ohnstons were the first band to record oni Mitchell’s Both Sides Now. “It was in the op , then udy Collins recorded it on another label. er label later released oni Mitchell’s own version, which became a op hit — and ours disappeared into history.” he band eventually split up, as bands do. But another opportunity soon appeared. “I was invited to oin the famous Irish band lanxty,” Brady says. “ raditional Irish music was having a resurgence, and with Christy Moore leaving, it was the ideal option for me in .” hat has helped sustain Brady’s stellar career is his versatility. “It’s relatively rare for a musician to be fluent in folk, pop, rock, and rhythm and blues. I’m pleased I had that range. But if you ask my favourite genre — I ust like good music.” In , Brady had something of an epiphany while listening to erry a erty’s Baker Street. “ hat was farewell to the traditional music scene. I locked myself away and produced my first solo album, Hard Station , my first foray into the contemporary pop world.” e describes the s and ’ s as “good and bad”. Signed to a ma or British label, he kept striving to write good songs. “But I never had it in me to be a rock or pop star with all the haircuts and outfits. I wasn’t into that — my songs came at people from a di erent angle.

Paul Brady is playing at Th Millennium Forum, Derry, on November 16 and at The Waterfront, Belfast, on November 21. 63

1400 UNITE IN COLOURFUL SHOW OF BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Titanic Slipways was awash with colour on Sunday 12 October as over 1400 runners, supporters and volunteers came together to get covered head-to-toe in powder at Cancer Focus NI’s iconic Belfast Pink Run, proudly sponsored by Dale Farm Sukie, b bold, and Northstone. The sold-out event, organised to helped mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, saw participants compete a non-competitive 5km fun run through the iconic Titanic Slipways. The family-fun day was open to all ages and abilities with men, women, children and even pets coming together to help raise breast cancer awareness, all while having fun. Organised as part of the charity’s wider Go Pink campaign, proceeds from the sponsored run will go towards funding local breast cancer support services such as counselling, family support, and specialist bra and swimwear fitting.

Pictured at the start of the run are Richard Spratt, Chief Executive at Cancer Focus NI, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Junior Minister Aisling Reilly and Junior Minister Joanne Bunting.

Jennifer Gardiner and Sarah McGroddy.

Melissa Slevine and Catriona Jones.

Sarah Marie McDevitt, Suzanne O’Donnell, Sharon Doohan and Catherine O’Donnell.

FIT FOR BUSINESS Donegal Women in Business Network organised an International omen s Day event it for usiness which too lace at n Grianan Hotel, Inishowen, County Donegal.

Mary Crawford, Larisa Feeny, Sally Murphy and Lindsey Reynolds. 64

November 2025

STYLE

EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED AT ONE OF THE HOTTEST EVENTS. Former Miss Universe Ireland, Lynn Kelly, knows how to dress for any occasion, including the Primark Edit AW Collection dinner in Dublin.

November 2025

GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

ovember! How did you arrive so fast? One minute we’re basking in golden afternoons, the next we’re wrapped in scarves, chasing that elusive warm glow. But here’s the magic – we’re all in this cosy, transitional month together. November isn’t just the cal efore the fe ti e tor it our cha ce to low ow la er up a fi tho e little park that keep u glowi g through the changing days. So, here’s to November — the quiet glow before the big shine.

Paul Costelloe’s A/W Show Was a Love Letter to Ireland in Tailored Form

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Maureen Moores

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There are fashion shows — and then there was this: Paul Costelloe’s Heritage Collection, which closed the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week with the kind of elegance that doesn’t just demand attention — it commands it, with a raised eyebrow and a perfectly cut coat. Held in the jaw-droppingly dramatic Dublin City Hall — all Corinthian columns and chandeliers — this was not merely a show. It was a cinematic, couturefuelled whisper of Ireland’s soul. Ireland’s fashion elite gathered beneath the grand arches and golden light, drawn to witness a master at work — and they were not disappointed. Costelloe wasn’t here to shout about heritage. That would be too obvious. Instead, he stitched it in. He whispered it through wool. You could feel the misty mornings of Wicklow in every tweed. Hear the crunch of frost underfoot in the clean lines of a tailored coat. And taste the late-autumn bonfires in those deep forest greens, wrapped around silhouettes that looked like they’d marched straight out of an ancestral portrait. Silk rustled like whispered secrets; monochrome prints grounded the collection in a kind of cool, Celtic minimalism. This was not nostalgia dressed up in fancy buttons. This was heritage reimagined — strong, refined, and quietly radical. Acclaimed jewellery designer PK Bijoux’s perfectly paired pieces glinted like frost on a hedgerow, just that perfect ping of artisanal magic, as if the jewellery had been dreamt up by woodland sprites with incredible taste. And just when you thought it couldn’t possibly get any more stunning — bam! The bridal finale. Not so much “Here Comes the Bride” as “Here Comes the Goddess-Warrior who will probably start a Literary Movement. Layers of gossamer and grace, all strength and softness, as if conjured from fog and starlight. This wasn’t just fashion. This was a felt experience. A collection that didn’t just dress the body — it told a story. A story of place, of time, of home — and how beautiful all of that can look when Paul Costelloe has the final word. Captured on and off the run way at the Paul Costello show, Irish fashion week.

Emmanuel Agbons 66

NEW MENU LAUNCH AT 2TAPS elfa t uch lo e ap i e ar rece tl cele rate it 0th anniversary with a special launch evening to unveil its new menu. w e rother a i ter uo arro a ictoria eill at o the re taura t ha re i ite it culi ar root with the rei agi i g of ig ature i he with a fre h o er e ge he ew e u wa create the re taura t ew hea chef a arha who i k ow for hi pa io creati it a e te i e e perie ce acro o e of orther rela u ie t kitche

Blush Into Fall I’ll let you lovely readers in on a little secret… People have been asking why my skin’s been looking so annoyingly good lately. And no, it’s not a silent retreat or celery juice. It’s blush. Here’s the thing about blush: it’s criminally underrated. Everyone’s out here writing sonnets about contour and highlight like they’re the lead in a romantic drama, but blush? Blush is the quiet genius in the corner. This season, she’s getting her crown. Enter Senna’s new Cheeky Blush Quad. t ot u t a prett u h t a facial trateg plot twi t for our cheek o e he ha e o what e er goo frie houl hape ou lift ou a ake ou look etter tha ou i fi e i ute ago A sweep high on the cheek and – boom – cheekbones you didn’t even know were in the contract. A dab on the apples and suddenly ou re ra ia t po i l u t fell i lo e le el of glow le it out a the whole face goe fro it o a to ai character e erg hi i t h retiri g lu h t work here wh lo e it e e ore if ou like your makeup with actual heritage — made by someone who’s held a brush, not just a ring light — Senna is your girl. A brand born i a tu io ot a elfie roper root eal arti tr o gi ick o filter u t grow up glamour that remembers what a brow pe cil wa for efore ik ok tol it to o a dance. Head to senna.co.uk

Jarron and Victoria O’Neill Watson, with Julian Simmons and Nathan Hughes.

The team at 2Taps.

Emma McKee, Victoria O’Neill Watson and Holly Meadows. 67

Ellen McLean, Richard Morga, Jarron and Victoria O’Neill Watson and Declan Harvey.

GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Chic, Champagne & Clare Island Salmon: When Kildare Village Came to Town So there we were — midweek, midday, mid-champagne — wrapped in the velvet-swathed embrace of The Merrion Hotel. Kildare Village had, quite rightly, brought a little luxury to Dublin. And really, what better way to launch the Autumn/ Winter arrivals than in a place that whispers “silk gloves and secrets”? The vibe: fashion-forward garden party meets ucce io fi ale lu ch ue t were greete with ute of chilled champagne, then treated to a curated rail of pieces so sharp you could cut your fringe with them. Think SelfPortrait, Maje, Sandro, Claudie Pierlot, Louise Kennedy, and RIXO. After a determined hover around the effortlessly stylish Kildare Village personal shopper, Jess Colivet (I’ve now officiall e elope a wo a cru h o e lu ch arri e — Clare Island salmon styled like it was heading to a Vogue shoot, followed by plum galette and pistachio ice cream. Kildare Village’s commercial director, Jared Flint, shared updates on the ever-growing fashion offering, including the Irish Designer in Residence series featuring standout pieces from Caoimhe Grant (August Night), Sarah Jayne Lavery (Charlotte and Tess), CAYO, and Aoife Mullane Design. The guestlist sparkled. Cathy Martin, Corina Gaffey, Louise Cooney, Jodie Wood, Sophie Van Der Flier, Dr Sinead Ryan and Edel Kinane — all looking suspiciously like they’ve just come from a facial and travel with their own ring light. Because Kildare Village isn’t just for shopping — it’s for being looked after. Personal stylists, hands-free shopping, valet parking… it’s basically Paris, without the existential dread. So go. Shop. Swish. Because Paris may set the trends — but Kildare Village is where you shop them.

Jess Colivet.

Ciara Hughes and Kwanele Nomoyi.

Cathy Martin.

Edel Kinane.

Sarah Jane Lavery.

Caoimhe Grant. 68

Nuala Meenehan.

Chloe McGinley.

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Primark Powers Up: The Supper That Kicked Off Ireland Fashion Week Ireland Fashion Week and Primark hosted an intimate supper ahead of the 2025 fashion show schedule. This wasn’t just an evening meal — it was a glittery, gorgeously lit moment. Held at Lena, in Dublin’s charming, vibrant Portobello district, the e e i g rought together fa hio fi e t for a i ti ate preview of The Primark Edit AW collection. As one of Ireland’s leading employers of fashion designers, Primark has long been quietly building an army of creative talent. In fact, two of the brilliant minds behind the Irish Sea Show are Primark-employed. Yes, they’re homegrown. Yes, they’re excellent. And yes, we’re already mentally making space in our wardrobes. The atmosphere? Electric. The crowd? A mix of industry legends, rising stars. Fashion stylist and writer Corina Gaffey joined Cathy Martin, Rachel Reidy, founder R2 Communications, Dublin and London consultant SheerLuxe and former Miss Ireland Universe Lynn Kelly. And the food? Created by the team at Lena — and frankly, e i le poetr here wa a ri otto that a e people rie weep. A dessert that caused actual gasps. As the night wound down, bellies full and cheeks kissed, the energy was unmistakable: this is Ireland’s moment. A new wave of talent. A fresh take on heritage. A week of shows and spectacles ready to prove that Irish fashion isn’t just having a moment — it’s staging a full-blown takeover.

Ciara O Doherty.

Zeda the Architect aka @notzeda.

Shop The Primark Edit AW collection primark.com

John McCormack and Elaine Campbell. Suzanne Jackson O’Connor.

Lynn Kelly.

Rachel Reidy.

Corina Gaffey.

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Catherine and Dr Aidan Walsh.

Bronagh Elmore, Sophie Porter, Corrin Penman and Zara McCrea.

Cameron Faulkner and Ali Wright.

Lynsey Quinn, Margaret White, Carina and Kenza Duke. Lauren Murphy, Victoria Kinkaid, Sophie McClintock and Sarah Swann.

LAUNCH OF HILLSBOROUGH AESTHETICS Hillsborough Aesthetics, founded by Dr Aidan Walsh and Dr Alexandra Willis, proudly celebrated the launch of its new doctor-led aesthetics clinic in the heart of Hillsborough. Guests gathered at Joxer for an elegant evening of canapés, drinks, and celebration. With both founders bringing extensive medical expertise, Hillsborough Aesthetics is committed to enhancing natural beauty through precision, care, and professionalism. The launch event brought together friends, clients and supporters to mark the beginning of a clinic where patie t afet u tle re ult a co fi e ce are at the core of every treatment.

Daniel and Hannah Beattie, Sophie Murtagh, Christina and Andy McCleane.

Dr Aidan Walsh and Dr Alexandra Willis.

Dr Alexandra Willis and Laura Porter.

Andrew Hume and Matthew Dunne.

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Shannon Gowdy and Rebecca Shaw.

Graham McNeilly, Ikem Okonkwo, Martin Shields, OC Nzewi, Jijin Joseph, Reuben Jeganathan, Ian Menown, Andrew Howe and Peter McKavanagh.

KINGSBRIDGE CELEBRATES 100 CARDIAC SURGERIES Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group proudly celebrated the incredible milestone of 100 cardiac surgeries with a special evening at The Chelsea, Belfast. Colleagues from across the Group gathered on Saturday 4th October to mark the achievement with a sparkling drinks reception, delicious hot buffet, and dancing late into the night. The event was a heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated cardiac team whose expertise and commitment have transformed countless lives. The celebration re ecte i g ri ge o goi g e icatio to eli eri g worl cla healthcare and its continued investment in advancing cardiac care across Northern Ireland.

Hither Mupfungidza and Cebo Sibanda.

Lucinda Bacon, Lisa Neligan, Andrea Hill, OC Nzewi, Ruby Sloan, Roseanna Allen, Kelly Macartney and Sharon Davis.

OC Nzewi, Fortunate Jeke, Kanchana Thomas, Mary Canlas and Lindiwie Maarira.

Sara McAviney and Jaime Gwyn.

OC Nzewi. Suresh and Karen Tharma, Graham McNeilly, Jijin Joseph and Reuben Jegananthan.

Laura McCague, Orla Hurson, Elaine McKenna, Karen Grimley and Laura Blair.

Hannah Simpson, Janet Mills and Sonia Benson.

Colum Owens and Peter McKavanagh. 75

Jijin Joseph, Grainne McKendry, Ikem Okonkwo and Graham McNeilly.

The Future Of Aesthetics

Roslyn and Sonia Odwyer with a patient.

Roslyn, Mandy Quinn, Clare Deegan, Elizabeth Hanna, Roisin Dean, Jade Grimley and Donna Taggert.

Roslyn and Elizabeth Hanna.

Roslyn and Katie Hamiliton.

Emma Gilfedder and Christina Gilfedder.

Michelle Gleeson and Sonia Odwyer.

Roslyn, Kathleen McCrea and Rosa Hamilton.

‘The Future of Aesthetics’ launch night at Roslyn Aesthetic and Laser Clinic saw the introducion of the new BTL machines in clinic: Emface for tightening and lifting the face as well as reducing a double chin; Exion with different settings including radio frequency microneedling for face and body; face and body applicator to boost hyaluronic acid and collagen naturally, as well and tightening and lifting the skin; Emcella chair for tightening the pelvic floor – this 30-minute treatment is the equivalent to 11,000 kegels. Also introducing advanced Bio Microneedling from Korea – this mix with salmon DNA and growth factors is the way to achieve glass skin with no needles involved. Nicola Gault and Jessica Scarlett.

405 Antrim Road, Glengormley BT36 5ED l T: 07828 287968 E: info@roslyn.clinic

www.roslyn.clinic

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

COLUMN November 2025

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.

REBECCA NELSON

Say goodbye to headaches, migraines, vertigo and tinnitus for good This month, Apex Headache Clinic founder and Spinal & Headache Physiotherapy Specialist, Rebecca Nelson, discusses headaches, migraines, vertigo and neck-related tinnitus and how Apex Headache Clinic has a high success rate in treating and clearing these debilitating conditions.

Are headaches or migraines making you miserable? Persistent headaches and migraines can literally ruin the quality of people’s lives, lea i g the e perate to fi a olutio that brings relief to their pain. What many people don’t realise is that headaches or migraines can actually be triggered from damage, stiffness or stress in the structures of the upper neck region. Poor posture or hours spent hunched over desks and computers commonly cause persistent neck-triggered headaches and migraines,

while repeated heavy lifting, a previous fall or an accident are also factors. At Apex Headache Clinic we fully understand your pain. We know, from over 25 years of clearing headaches and migraines, that our specialist unique physiotherapy treatment regimes rather than painkillers can be the long-term cure that you are looking for. The specialist physiotherapists at Apex Headache Clinic have been fully trained in The Nelson Headache Approach™, which is a treatment regime for clearing headaches and migraines and is offered in no other clinic in Northern Ireland or the UK. Due to our extremely high success rate with this regime, we have patients travelling from all o er the a further afiel for our treatment. Is vertigo or dizziness ruining your life? Dizziness originating from the upper neck region of the spine is called cervical vertigo and is very commonly overlooked as a source of vertigo. It originates from stiffness or damage of the upper two neck joints of the spine. Often the person experiences no actual neck pain, only dizziness and this is why they are often misdiagnosed as having dizziness from their inner ear. At Apex Headache Clinic, our team of specialist physios have been successfully treating and clearing cervical vertigo for years, thanks to our unique regime of manual treatment to the upper neck region called The Nelson Vertigo Approach™. During your initial consultation, one of our

apex clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

specialist physiotherapists will assess your neck to establish if it is involved in causing your vertigo and to differentiate it from vertigo from the inner ear. A treatment plan can then be started to clear it. One of the features of cervical vertigo is that it does not respond to drugs given for inner ear vertigo. Is tinnitus getting you down? Tinnitus is usually experienced as a ringing, hissing, whistling, buzzing or clicking sound that can be intermittent, or constant. It is an intrusive, annoying and, in some cases, a devastating condition for sufferers. Although it may be associated with damage to the hearing system, tinnitus can actually be caused by injury or stiffness of the upper neck joints, even when there is no neck pain. The good news regarding tinnitus which is triggered from the neck is that, in most cases, it can be treated and cleared at Apex Headache Clinic. Treat and beat pain at its source As with all niggles, aches and pains, we recommend that you get to the root cause of your symptoms as soon as possible. Once diagnosed, Apex Headache Clinic’s specialist manual physiotherapy treatment regimes can clear all of these conditions, restoring your quality of life and allowing you to get on with enjoying life, symptom free again. If you would like to book an appointment with Apex Headache Clinic, contact us on: 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

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

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 78

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

November 2025

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

Having treatment at Apex Headache Clinic has been life changing! 25-year-old Hugh O’Reilly-Fitzgerald, from Belfast, suffered with a constant headache and brain fog which was affecting his daily life. After thinking this was something that he was going to have to live with, he visited Apex Headache Clinic. Here, Hugh shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment for migraines and headaches, called The Nelson Headache Approach™, changed his life, clearing his constant headache and brain fog. I mentioned my headaches and she recommended that I try Apex Headache Clinic. She had been herself and treatment had really helped her. At that stage I thought I’ll give Apex a try as I had already seen a out fi e e ical profe io al each ear e perate to fi a cure ut othi g ha helped! How has your life changed since having treatment? The difference is immeasurable. I still get the odd headache, you know, just like anyone else, but nothing at all like what it used to be. When my pain and brain fog was most severe, I thought this was something that I would just have to live with now. The most dramatic improvement for me has been no longer suffering with the constant brain fog, I feel like I can now function at 100% again.

Hugh, when did your headaches begin? I suffered headaches for about two years and I love that I’m now able to use the past tense! I hit my head and the following day I had an awful headache and brain fog which basically never left me since that accident over two years ago. How did the headaches affect your life? The headaches happened at a very unfortunate time as I was about to start studying for my master’s degree. One of

the hardest things for me was the brain fog that came along with the headaches as I just felt like I was impaired in my work and in my thinking, which in turn made studying really ifficult atte e ariou octor o er the two years and the main thing they were very fond of saying was that my headaches were caused by stress and that if I stopped being stressed it would go away. What led you to Apex Headache Clinic? I was out for a walk with a friend when

apex clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

What advice would you offer someone suffering from headaches and brain fog? This might sound a bit cheesy, but don’t give up, there may be a solution out there! I recommend Apex and booking an appointment with one of their headache physiotherapy specialists. I am so grateful for the help that Kirsty and the team have given me! To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

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massage

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

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 79

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

McElvanna & Hinds Miss Ciara McElvanna, daughter of James and Dorinda McElvanna, from Lisburn, recently married Ciarán Hinds, son of John and Oonagh Hinds, from Belfast. The wedding took place on Thursday 18th September at Harvey’s Point, in Donegal. Photography by: Paul Doherty.

UT Society Weddings

Celebrating Unique Style Growing up in a family of skilled dressmakers, I was immersed in the world of fashion from a young age. Surrounded by fabrics, patterns and the rhythmic hum of sewing machines, my passion for dressmaking blossomed naturally. This rich heritage inspired me to pursue a diploma in bespoke designing and dressmaking, where I honed my skills and developed a keen eye for detail. With 25 years of experience in the industry, I specialise in creating exquisite, cu to gar e t that re ect i i i ual t le a per o alit our e ha taken me beyond personal creations; I also offer professional wedding dress alteratio e uri g that each ri e gow fit awle l a e ha ce her beauty on her special day. e perie ce i clu e worki g with the ro al fa il of elgiu where learned the art of crafting luxurious dresses that meet the highest standards of elegance and sophistication. This unique background informs my approach, allowing me to blend tradition with modern design sensibilities. Whether you seek a bespoke dress or require expert alterations for your wedding gown, my commitment to quality and personalised service ensures that e er piece i a true re ectio of our i io et create o ethi g eautiful together, celebrating your unique story through fashion. For more information email: Loumareatelier@gmail.com or check out the Instagram @Loumare_atelier

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Crockett & Goan Dr Cathryn Crockett, daughter of Barbara and Colin Crockett, recently married Steve Goan, son of Susan and John Goan. The wedding took place on 25th October 2025 at Belfast City Hall, followed by a reception at Cyprus Avenue, Belfast. Photography by: Vicki Maher Photography.

GIFT GUIDE

Christmas 02

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07 1. Bushmi ll s 1 4 Yea r O ld Si ngl e Mal t, £60 2 . B a r b o u r s c a r f a n d h at s e t , K i l d a re Vi l l a g e , € 5 3 . 3 . A n A l t e r n at i v e C h r i s t m a s b y Sophie White, £25. 4 . H i b i s c u s D rea m f ra g ra n c e s t i c ks , Rituals, £58. 5 . Th e Ti m e l e s s Co l l e c t i o n b y A n n a l i v i a , B Pe r f e c t , £ 4 9 . 9 5 . 6 . M i n i Rox a n n e i n O a k , M u l b e r r y, £1,095. 7 . I n f ra re d s t ra i g h t e n e r s , Vo d u z , £ 1 3 9 . 9 9

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November 2025

REVIEW

The Heart of the Action Ulster Tatler’s Chris Sherry spends a night in The Morgan Hotel in Dublin I never tire of visiting Dublin, but when booking a hotel I tend to steer clear of the heart of the city, which seems to be a magnet for young party goers year round. Alas, my days of late night revelry are no more (well, most of the time). So when my wife and I accepted an invitation to stay in The Morgan in early October, I was slightly ambivalent as the hotel is located on Fleet Street, bang in the middle of what must be one of the busiest nighttime areas of Dublin - you guessed it, Temple Bar. We arrived at 6pm on a Friday evening and the hotel was already buzzing what a great start to the weekend. After checking out our room, which certainly didn’t disappoint, we decided to opt for an early dinner in the bar area at the front of the hotel, which has a great view of Fleet Street. Our elevated booth by the window meant we could soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere beyond without experiencing any of the hassle (it

was wet and windy outside). We watched the world go by from our window seats while also enjoying all the comings and goings in the hotel, feeling ever so smug when bedraggled tourists turned up seeking some shelter. It was the perfect spot; we didn’t feel like we had to go elsewhere in search of ‘the craic’ as it was happening all around us. I must admit that my expectations are pretty low when it comes to hotel food; I have had a few bad experiences over the years. Think cold, deserted dining rooms with food that doesn’t look or taste like it should. Thankfully, I can honestly say that the foo at he orga wa terrific a the whole dining experience was really enjoyable. The head waiter had control of the room and the meal was of a really high standard. On the evening we visited, quite a few non-residents were dining there, which is always a good sign. When we eventually managed to extricate ourselves from our prime

position in the bar area we were ready for a good night’s sleep. Thankfully, our luxurious room delivered on this front. The distant hum of the city was not intrusive; it was hard to believe that we were at the heart of one of the busiest party cities in Europe. Dublin is known for its famous bars and The Morgan is located near two of my favourites. The Oval is just on the other side of the Liffey; it’s a low-key bar that The Beatles once took refuge in when they were being mobbed by fans after a concert on O’Connell Street. Another gem is The Palace Bar. It is on the same street as The Morgan and is one of the most famous and historic bars in the city. Brendan Behan, Flann O’Brien and Patrick Kavanagh, among others, were all regular visitors. The only issue I have with The Morgan, and it’s a good one, is that there isn’t really any need to venture far beyond its foyer to experience Dublin. Nice problem to have in my opinion. Hotel residents can enjoy a tranquil bedroom, a lively bar and superb food right at the centre of the action. This is even more of a bonus if you are o a i g i it fro the orth a we were.

FACT FILE: The Morgan 10-12 Fleet Street, Dublin, D02 AT86 Tel: 00 353 1 643 7000 Web: themorgan.com

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On a trip home to Ireland, Michelle and Gareth McAllister, then living in Asia, took a detour past a derelict mill in Ahascragh village, east County Galway.

Irish Whiskey with a Worldwide Appeal With their children grown, the couple had been considering a move back to Ireland to open a distillery, exporting to regions where Irish whiskey had long lost footing. Gareth, a chemical engineer, trained distiller and lifelong whiskey enthusiast, had recognised the growing appetite for Irish spirits in Asia.

wind, solar and hydro power, supported by high-temperature heat pump technology a e erg efficie t torage o fo il fuel or gas are used in our distillation process.” This innovative technology has attracted hundreds of visitors, driving growing interest in tours of the distillery.

“I would take clients out to high-end restaurants where they’d be offered an Irish ‘scotch’!” he recalls. “There was little awareness of Irish whiskey, and I could see a real gap in the market.”

“Whiskey and gin lovers, as well as visitors seeking unique experiences, are drawn to the distillery’s story,” says Michelle. “They love its history, our zero-emissions technology and, of course, the spirits themselves”.

When Gareth and Michelle discovered the ruin in Ahascragh, they immediately saw beyond its crumbling walls, imagining a state-of-the-art eco-distillery and visitor centre. Purchasing the site, things moved quickly. They wanted to preserve as much of the origi al uil i g a po i le fitti g perfectl with their vision of sustainability. “This mill served the community during the early 19th century,” says Michelle. “It’s an important part of the village’s history, and we wanted to preserve its character while bringing it back to life.” The original stonework, mill stream and water wheel were carefully restored, while remnants of the old machinery were transformed into bespoke furniture for the visitor centre, café, a fi e i i g re taura t he Cla Colla which opened in the village last year. In 2021, Ahascragh Distillery launched its muchloved Xin Gin, as well as its series of sourced Cla Colla a ri h hi ke he e

In recent years, Ahascragh Distillery has introduced daily tours, and a luxury tour that i clu e a fi e cour e eal at he Cla Colla re taura t each cour e paire with one of their award-winning spirits. Owners Gareth and Michelle McAllister.

premium brands have since earned national and international acclaim, winning gold medals at prestigious spirits competitions. The distillery’s own whiskey, due for release withi two ear will ake hi tor a the fir t ri h whiskey produced with zero energy emissions. “Ahascragh Distillery is powered entirely by renewable energy,” explains Gareth. “We use

“The luxury tour runs one day a month, including January and Valentine’s Day 0 a ichelle o it a wo erful Chri t a gift t a ore i ti ate wa to experience the distillery, and we love that. We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved – and proud that Ahascragh Distillery is helping to lay down a new, eco-friendly path for Ireland’s spirits industry.” And just as they once dreamed, Ahascragh Distillery’s whiskeys and gin are now stocked on shelves across Ireland, Asia, and around the world.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: WWW.AHASCRAGHDISTILLERY.COM

A Paw-Some Christmas Adventure Awaits Step into a tail-wagging adventure as Historic Royal Palaces brings the magic of the Snowdogs to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. From 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the Castle grounds will be transformed with 10 playful Snowdogs and one Snowman™, with elements inspired by the much-loved animated film, THE SNOWMAN™ AND THE SNOWDOG, the sequel to Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book and film adaption. THE SNOWMAN™ offers families an enchanting Christmas experience filled with discovery and festive fun. At the Castle entrance, a life-sized Snowman™ and Snowdog will greet visitors, inviting them to explore winding woodland paths, hidden glens, and sparkling green spaces throughout the gardens. Along the trail, Snowdog displays will be brought to life, inviting families and visitors of all ages to pause, explore, and

enjoy fresh surprises around every corner. Inside the Clore Learning Centre – a dedicated creative and educational space located in the Castle’s former stable block - families can warm up with screenings of The Snowman™ and The Snowdog on weekends (29–30 November, 6–7 and 13–14 December) and during the school holidays (20–23 December and 27–4 January). Screenings run at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00 and 14:00, and are included with a gardens ticket on a first-come, first-served basis. On weekends and during the Christmas holidays, visitors can enjoy even more festive cheer with a magical meet-andgreet with Santa himself — part of the wider Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Christmas experience (additional ticket required). After following the Snowdog trail through the gardens and discovering glimmering wintery scenes, Christmassy

treats and hot drinks are available from the café – and on snowy days there’s even space to build a snowman. The festivities continue inside the Castle itself, open Wednesday to Sunday, and moving to seven days a week during the school holidays. Grand State Rooms will be dressed in sparkling Christmas trees, garlands, and traditional decorations, while Castle tours share stories of seasonal traditions from Hillsborough’s past. The trail has been developed in collaboration with Wild in Art, a leading producer of creative events that transform public spaces, connect communities and showcase inspiring art. Tickets and more information can be found online at https://www.hrp.org. uk/hillsborough-castle/whats-on/ christmas-at-hillsborough-castle-andgardens/

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HOLD ON... WE’VE GOT SOMETHING AMAZING! CHRISTMAS IS COMING, AND WE’RE GIVING YOU A GIFT. £200 GIFT VOUCHER UP FOR GRABS. Look out on our Instagram or in the restaurant from November 1st to find out how! We are also taking bookings for Christmas parties.

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My reasons I started The Sober Irish was to show that you can still have a great night out without alcohol. 7. What do you think is the best thing about Northern Ireland? The people do make a place and I love my Northern Ireland roots. It’s also an exciting place to start a business - there’s a real appetite here for trying something new and everyone is so supportive, which has made launching The Sober Irish particularly rewarding.

Jim Fitzpatrick Journalist, presenter and founder of The Sober Irish 1. What do you love most about your job? I love the variety of what I do. Being a journalist gives you a licence to be nosy, so you get to ask questions, meet new people and explore new places. Most recently, launching my new venture, The Sober Irish, has given me a new outlet for that same curiosity. I get to meet great producers and discover the unique passion projects driving the emerging low- and no-alcohol movement. 2. What has been your career hightlight to date? I loved working on big investigations for Spotlight, such as “Sean Quinn’s Missing Millions”. It won an Irish Film and Television Award and we celebrated in The Gibson Hotel with Jimmy Nesbitt and Jamie Dornan. I was enjoying the night so much that I didn’t notice someone stealing the golden statue award from the bar. Thankfully the hotel manager was able to review the CCTV, identify the thief, and go to his room – where they found him face down and snoring, with the golden statue lying underneath his bed. 3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work? My wife would probably say that work is my hobby, and she’d be largely correct, though I do love getting out to live gigs

and the theatre. Recently I’ve enjoyed hosting our pop-up events for The Sober Irish, which are a great way to combine socialising with the discovery of new alcohol-free drinks, in the company of great like-minded people. 4. What is your daily routine? My alarm is set for 6.30am and then, after hitting the snooze button a few times, I’ll get up and get co ee. I like to be busy from early, whether at home, in the o ce or on the road. By the time the working day is over I’m ready for a nice homecooked dinner (we take it in turns in our house). Later, if I get a chance to slump in front of the telly with something like Slow Horses, I’m in heaven. 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? I play basketball (socially and badly) once or twice a week, do strength training twice a week, and get out for a run a couple of times a week too. After that it’s a walk with the dog. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive? I believe that there’s nothing quite like exercise and sport for maintaining good physical and mental health. And for me personally, cutting back on alcohol has been part of that balance. One of the

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? What’s the worst that can happen? It’s something I’ve always said in work and life. And these days, as we say at The Sober Irish, the craic doesn’t need a hangover - which feels like a good mantra for life too. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? My parents, without a doubt. My Mum died in 2013 aged 80 and my Dad in 2022 at 93 and I think about them every day. They were remarkable people and taught me so much. I have my own views and approach to life, but so much of it is shaped by the values they instilled and the example they set.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: The Godfather 2 Band/Musician: REM because it brings back brilliant holiday memories when the kids were small. Book: Usually the last I’ve read, which is Joseph O’Connor’s My Father’s House, set in wartime Rome. Restaurant: We’re spoilt today in Belfast with so many great spots. When I’m visiting the North Coast it’s Harry’s Shack on Portstewart Strand for the setting, the welcome and the food. Meal: Steak bearnaise, chips and salad, or whole fish like ohn Dory cooked on the bone with a delicious sauce. Holiday destination: Portugal and Portstewart. Drink: Insel Brauerie Sea Salt nonalcoholic IPA – perfectly aligned with The Sober Irish ethos of being able to have a non-alcoholic drink without compromising on quality, taste or experience.

Christmas Shop

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Revolutionising skincare since 2010, Genosys, a leader in advanced South Korean cosmeceuticals, has been bringing cutting-edge K-Beauty innovation to Ireland through its professional-grade skincare. This year, Genosys marks an exciting milestone with the launch of its very first Christmas gift set in Ireland - the OXY VITA C Christmas Kit. The Collection includes: Genosys Snow 02 Cleanser Genosys Multi Vita Radiance Cream Genosys Multi Vita Radiance Serum RRP: £88

RADIANTLY ELEGANT, TIMELESS AND UNIVERSAL Celebrate the festive season with Ultraceuticals’ exclusive holiday gift set collection; six luxurious skincare sets inspired by the joy of giving and the glow of the season. Radiantly elegant, timeless, and universal, the Ultraceuticals 2025 Gift Set collection transcends seasons, bringing the magic back to skincare gift sets, one sparkle at a time. Sets available include: Ultraceuticals Ultra Essentials Gift Set: £248 Ultraceuticals Ultra Night Gift Set: £132 Ultraceuticals Ultra Daily Gift Set: £128.00 Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrate Gift Set: £85 Ultraceuticals Ultra Calm Gift Set: £75 Ultraceuticals Ultra Bright Gift Set: £79

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THE ART OF GIVING This festive season, Yon-Ka Paris unveils a Christmas collection where science meets sensorial luxury. Each gift set is a bespoke ritual, fusing powerful active ingredients with the artistry of French skincare to offer far more than a present; an unforgettable journey of beauty and well-being. Featuring products enriched with Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration, Vitamin C for luminosity, Niacinamide for soothing balance, and Collagen for firming strength, every set delivers visible results while embodying timeless elegance. The Collection includes: Yon-Ka Hyaluronic Acide Ritual - For Intense Hydration: £95 Yon-Ka Niacinamide Ritual For Balanced, Soothed Skin: £118.00 Yon-Ka Vitamin C Ritual - For Radiant Skin: £194.00 Yon-Ka Collagen Ritual - For Firm, Contoured Skin: £123.00 Yon-Ka Hydration Ritual – Overnight Repair: £92.00

Diamond House, 63 Hill Street, Newry, BT34 1AF Diamond House, 63/65 Hill Street, Newry, BT34 1AF T. 028 3026 3379 | R.O.I. 048 3026 3379 E: diamonds@jmj.ie | www.jackmurphyjewellers.com T: +44 (0)28 3026 3379 | E: info@jackmurphyjewellers.com

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Home owners are embracing colour once more in their homes but for some, this can be a challenge in a predominately grey home. y sim ly changing your ooring to a neutral carpet can transform a room from feeling cold and clinical to warm and inviting. good quality carpet in a warm sand colour is a good long-term choice, as it will adapt well to changing seasons and trends in interiors. Starting with a neutral base, you can then add interesting textures and elements of bold colour to your room in your wall coverings, window dressings, furnishings and accessories. t ar c allister ar ets, you can view a huge range of neutral and coloured carpets in luxury velvets, heavily textured handwoven wools, soft deep pile and easy clean synthetics. ll sam les can be viewed within your home, which is the best place to see them in the correct light and conte t. ar or isa will measure u and guide you through their various ranges to hel you ma e the right decisions and bring your room scheme together.

Updating A Grey Scheme COOKING THE PERFECT DINNER?

Come visit our award-winning shops for fresh local produce. Coffey Butchers are two high class butchers and fruit shops in Finaghy and on the Lisburn Road, follow us on Facebook for all the latest products and special offers! Our two retail shops are situated at 380 Lisburn Road – established in 1928 and at 126b Upper Lisburn Road – established 1955. Both shops offer unrivalled levels of customer service and satisfaction, often envied by our competition, and take great pride in supplying our customers with only the finest locally sourced meat and meat products. All our beef is hand picked and dry-aged on the bone to give it flavour, tenderness and quality guaranteed. Coffeys 126b Upper Lisburn Road Finaghy, BT10 0BE T: 028 9061 1982 E: finaghy@coffeybutchers.co.uk

To find out more or to arrange a free home visit with the mobile carpet showroom, visit carpetni.com or call 07818 094040.

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Coffeys 380 Lisburn Road Belfast, BT9 6GL T: 028 9066 6292 E: lisburnroad@coffeybutchers.co.uk

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My make an e ort to hit the gym a little especially to fight o the winter blues. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive? I believe in the phrase: “Everything happens for a reason” - to an almost delusional level! If I’m being honest, it actually does make a massive di erence. The whole concept of having to let go of a few things, to receive greater things, works a treat. 7. What do you think is the best thing about Northern Ireland? Sadly, I’m still living in London. I say sadly because one day I want to buy a house near my parents - or even buy their house. When I lived at home, I didn’t realise what I had on my doorstep. Now after 14 years of living away, I see all of what my young eyes couldn’t. The scenic views, beautiful hikes and history was all wasted on me. When I say “I’m going home” I always mean back to my parent’s house, even after all these years. The countryside, the craic and the community. It’s something that can’t be recreated anywhere else. I’ve always said that if the weather was sunny in Ireland - everyone would move there!

Janet Devlin Singer-songwriter

1. What do you love most about your job? That it doesn’t feel like a job! I get to spend most of my days doing the thing I love most in the world - making music. From writing, recording, producing, releasing and touring - I have a blast doing it all. 2. What has been your career hightlight to date? I’d have to say any trips out to Nashville to record my music. I’ve been three times now, and there’s something so utterly magic about having a live band; comprised of some of the best musicians in the world, laying down songs you wrote. I pinch myself every time! 3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work? I absolutely love horse riding - I’ve done it since I was a kid and also competed for five years. I put a bit of a pause on it for my music; which I’m glad I did, but I always missed it. I never really stopped entirely, but could only manage a couple of times a year. The minute I got a car in London,

I was right back in it! I now ride other people’s horses for them over here. So now I get the best of both worlds - I get to enjoy morning rides before I head over to the studio for the day. 4. What is your daily routine? I wish I had one! No two days of my schedule are ever the same so it’s hard to get into a “routine”. No matter what though, I do wake up an hour or two before I have to, and in that hour I can do what I want. Even if it’s just scrolling the internet! It doesn’t matter if I have to leave the house at am for a flight I’ll still get my little hour of me-time to be a human. 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? I wish! I used to run, Olympic lift and do CrossFit. Now I’m lucky to get 10,000 steps in! I use the horse riding at the moment for my exercise and it seems to be working. One hour of rising trot burns the same amount of calories as an hour of jogging. So that’s a pretty easy choice for me! Now we’re coming into winter, I am going to

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8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? “An rud atá i ndán duit ní rachaidh sé tharat” - loosely “what’s for you, will never pass you” has been a deep rooted belief in me since I was a child. Anytime I’ve received a “no” to an opportunity, an even better one was waiting right around the corner. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? My mother. If I could become half the woman she is, I’d be doing great. The level of strength, selflessness and generosity she has is still astounding to me. I couldn’t ask for a better rolemodel or best friend.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: O Brother, Where Art Thou? Band/Musician: Chris Stapleton Book: Under the Hawthorne Tree Restaurant: Hong Kong City Plumbridge Meal: Anything my mum’s making! Holiday destination: Anywhere with sun and a body of water! Drink: Sparkling water

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 2025

The

Gift Guide Discover special gifts this festive season at Queen’s Arcade, Belfast. Home to a variety of global brands including Rolex, OMEGA and Cartier, as well as local retailers such as Little Heart, Victoria Gault and Lunn’s Jewellers, you’ll find endless gifting inspiration at Queen’s Arcade. Explore our curated collection of gifts designed with your loved ones in mind...

FOR him

1. Montblanc Explorer Extreme Parfum. Available at Montblanc Boutique. 2. Antique Rosewood Calf Barker Belt. Available at Robinson’s Shoes. 3. Montblanc Extreme 3.0 Card Holder. Available at Montblanc Boutique. 4. David Yurman Chevron Cufflinks. Available at Lunn’s Jewellers. 5. TUDOR Black Bay. Available at TUDOR Boutique. 6. David Yurman Chevron Signet Ring. Available at Lunn’s Jewellers.

10.

FOR her

11. 12.

7. Cartier Panthére de Cartier. Available at Lunn’s Jewellers. 8. Portfolio of Fine Diamonds Love Letter. Available at Lunn’s Jewellers. 9. Emma Bridgewater Christmas Mug. Available at Little Heart. 10. Chanel Sunglasses. Available at Jonathan Keys Opticians 11. Portfolio of Fine Diamonds 3 stone diamond ring. Available at Lunn’s Jewellers 12. Montblanc Signature Eau de Parfum. Available at Montblanc Boutique

A LUXURY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF BELFAST

ROLEX OMEGA LUNN’S TUDOR BREITLING MONTBLANC TAG HEUER JONATHAN KEYS LAUREN MAY LITTLE HEART QUEEN’S CAFE BAR ROBINSON’S SHOES V I C T O R I A G A U LT

QUEEN’S ARCADE, BELFAST BT 1 5FE QUEENSARCADEBELFAST.COM

Christmas by the Sea Christmas Day Six Course Carvery Boxing Day Lunch Coco Bongo Christmas Party New Years Eve Tasting Menu Gift Vouchers Winter Breaks

EXHIBITIONS BY MARGEY & BJOURSON AT KILLEAVY CASTLE & HASLEM LISBURN THIS AUTUMN Portrush-based artists Adrian Margey and Evana Bjourson are set to captivate art lovers this autumn with two exciting exhibitions. On Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November, the husband-and-wife duo will host a joint exhibition and sale of work at Killeavy Castle Estate, near Newry. This special event offers a unique opportunity to experience the distinctive styles of both artists, side-by-side in the atmospheric setting of the Castle’s Garden Lounge. Margey’s bold and expressive depictions of the Irish landscape and iconic local landmarks will complement Bjourson’s evocative figurative work, mountain and wave studies. Depictions of the Ring of Gullion, the Mournes, Flagstaff, Carlingford Lough, Warrenpoint and Rostrevor will all feature. Next, Margey will present a solo Festive Exhibition at Haslem Hotel’s Plaza Suite, located on Lisburn Square on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December. This show will feature depictions of the North Coast, Mournes and Belfast. It promises to be an ideal source for those seeking a meaningful Christmas gift or a standout addition to their collection. Both exhibitions are free to attend, with original paintings and limited edition prints available for purchase. For further information visit adrianmargey.com and evanabjoursonart.com or telephone the Portrush studio on 07841593762.

Adrian Margey with ‘Causeway Gold’

‘A Night in Belfast’ by Evana Bjourson

‘Flagstaff’ by Adrian Margey

‘Dramatic Skies, Portstewart’ by Adrian Margey

‘Ballymacdermot Tomb Court’ by Adrian Margey

‘Porthole to Whiterocks’ by Evana

Evana Bjourson with ‘Atlantic Night Wave’

‘Mourne Mountains Magnitude’ by Evana Bjourson

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

28th Nov BOOK NOW T I TA N I C B E L FA S T. C O M

AFTERNOON TEA 6th & 7th December Experience the elegance of the era and step back in time to a period of luxury and 5-star service with our Festive Afternoon Tea. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning Grand Staircase and live music, it is an experience not to be missed!

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

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R&D’s Coalisland Christmas Shop has everything you need to make your home feel magical this Christmas. Founded in 1997 and managed by Doreen Wilkins and family – the business is steeped in tradition and dedication. Our journey began with a passion for spreading the joy of the festive season. Over the years, we’ve been privileged to serve clients who travel from near and far to experience the magic we create. EXPLORE OUR STORE’S TREASURES Discover a world of holiday wonder in our store. We offer a wide range of festive products, including lights, trees, garlands, baubles, candles, LED lights, musical ornaments, figurines, pine cones, outdoor lights, and garden products. Whatever you need to make your holiday season truly magical, you’ll find it right here.

PROMOTION DAYS start this Friday 7th Nov 9am-9pm & Saturday 8th 10am-6pm with 20% OFF all items (excludes Christmas Club items). Terms and Conditions Apply.

R&D’s Coalisland Christmas Shop Unit 4, 33 Dungannon Road, Coalisland, BT71 4HR T: 028 8774 8108 E: doreen.xmasshop@gmail.com Visit our Facebook for more information Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm Late Nights Wednesday & Friday 10am-8.30pm

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy

Dungannon & Moy Dungannon and the Moy area offer a perfect mix of charm, history and great shopping. Explore Dungannon’s vibrant town centre with its stylish boutiques, local crafts and welcoming cafés. Just minutes away, the picturesque village of Moy boasts unique independent shops, antique stores and cosy eateries. With beautiful countryside, friendly locals, and plenty of places to relax and explore, Dungannon and Moy make an ideal destination for a fun, relaxing day out and a spot of shopping.

PG Fresh Baristas Auguste and Ugne.

Laszlo from Emily’s Flowers. The team from The Moy Fayre.

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The Oaks Centre Dungannon opened in 1985, as a community-focused shopping destination. Over the years, the centre has continued to expand with new retailers, dining, entertainment and plenty of convenient parking. To mark this signigicant milestone on Friday 31st October the mall hosted a big Halloween party with children’s entertainment, DJ and cookery demonstration by Norah Brown.

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asey wit h Turl and Aoib ough heann .

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Norah B

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Molly , and m Eimear, R u um C h e r y a ri lyn.

Kim C h a b e r l ey , Yvo rlotte an d nne .

nelly, ia Don la Licres ell and Nico rr Mia Fa . lly Donne

OAKS ROAD, DUNGANNON BT71 4NA, E: CENTREMANAGER@OAKSSHOPPINGCENTRE.CO.UK, TEL: 028 8772 4695

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ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy A Fresh Chapter for a Local Favourite When The Moy Larder changed hands on June 1, 2025, little did the community know that a bright new chapter was about to begin. Long-time customers and now proud owners, Jayne Heenan and her husband Stephen, stepped behind the counter of their beloved local shop — a place they’d frequented for more than thirteen years — ready to bring their own touch to a village favourite. After running the shop as it was for just over a month, the couple decided to give it a new lease of life. On July 11, the doors closed temporarily for a full renovation — including an exciting expansion into the neighbouring unit, doubling the shop’s size. Just two weeks later, on July 24, the newly transformed store reopened under a fitting new name: The Moy Fayre. While the space may look different, one thing hasn’t changed — the people. Every member of the original team stayed on, something the new owner is especially proud of. Now bigger, brighter, and buzzing with energy, The Moy Fayre continues to serve the local community with the same friendly faces and familiar charm — proof that sometimes, the right time really does come around.

The Moy Fayre 16 The Square Moy, Dungannon | 028 8778 8060

Family run coffee shop & restaurant. We pride ourselves in everything being homemade on the premise.

EVENT CATERING BY APPOINTMENT

- Christenings - Weddings - Birthdays, - Corporate Events - Funerals 36 Scotch Street, Dungannon,

028 8772 7970

new landscapes Catering for all aspects of landscaping for both the private and commercial sectors

74C Sherrygrim Road, Newmills, Dungannon BT71 4DH T: 07884 076220 E: noel@newlandscapes.co.uk www.newlandscapes.co.uk 115

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy Historian John Bradbury takes a look at the rich history of Dungannon.

A Rich History Dungannon is a busy market town situated in the heart of Ulster, in County Tyrone. With a population of just over 16,000, it has a healthy retail scene. Many locals are employed by Moy Park, the largest poultry meat producer in Northern Ireland. The company employs around 12,000 people across its plants in the UK and Europe. The town has a rich history dating back to the O’Neill Clan, who built a fortification on Castle Hill. Along with other Irish chieftains, the O’Neills lost control of the area during the Plantation of Ulster, when English and Scottish planters settled there. The O’Neills had also controlled Clandeboye prior to the Plantation. Dungannon developed around Castle Hill. Although the original castle was burned down prior to the Flight of the Earls, Channel 4’s Time Team uncovered part of its moat and walls during excavations in 2007. By the early 1800s, Dungannon had become a prosperous market town thanks to the linen trade, which provided much employment. Weekly markets were held on Thursdays, when brown, or unfinished, linen was bought and sold. Even as the linen industry declined in the later part of the 20th century, Moygashel remained an important textile centre and a source of local jobs. Today, the Linen Green in Moygashel is a shopping village featuring gift shops, restaurants, men’s and women’s fashion stores, and a furniture outlet. Dungannon has five secondary schools. The Royal School, founded under a Free

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Schools Charter in 1636, is among the oldest. The town also has two parks: Dungannon Park and Windmill Wood Park. Dungannon Park hosts the local cricket club. Sport plays a major role in community life: Dungannon Swifts, winners of the Irish Cup and regular competitors in European football, play in the Premiership. Dungannon Rugby Club has an illustrious history and competes in the All-Ireland League. Local players such as Willie Anderson and Paddy Johns have represented Ireland. Well-known golfer Darren Clarke was a junior member at Dungannon Golf Club. He has enjoyed a distinguished career, winning The Open Championship at Royal St George’s in 2011, claiming multiple European Tour victories, and representing Europe in the Ryder Cup on several occasions. Other notable people from Dungannon include footballer Niall McGinn, who began his career at Dungannon Swifts before playing for Derry City, Glasgow Celtic, and the Northern Ireland national team; and Gerry McKenna, biologist, Senior Vice President of the Royal Irish Academy, and former president of the University of Ulster. For those interested in history and heritage, a visit to The Argory is highly recommended — a beautiful Irish gentry house set within a wooded estate near Moy, just outside Dungannon. Dungannon is a town that both honours its past and embraces the future, with a growing and diverse community that continues to shape its character.

Historian John Bradbury.

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy

Why I Love Dungannon

By Gemma from Solo Shoes.

How would you describe your typical day? Running a small, independent boutique is a mix of creativity, business management and customer connection. When I get into the shop I review online orders, supplier messages and deliveries. Social media is now integral to any business so posting on all platforms and making content is extremely important and takes a large amount of time and effort during the day. We have a wonderful community of local clients as well as visitors from all over the country, so meeting and assisting them with matching u outfits with shoes and accessories and catching up with them is always my favourite part of any day. Many boutique owners don’t fully “clock out” at closing time. We often can be found in the evenings researching new designers or trade shows, brainstorming marketing and social media ideas or even just responding to customer requests. Where do you like to dine and socialise in the area? Dungannon is full of great places to eat during the day and in the evening. The recently opened Basilco is a wonderful Italian restaurant. Mo Ghra’s is also a fabulous bistro. Viscounts and Deli on the Green all offer a

fabulous dining experiences. The Blackthorn and The Gasworks also have a great Saturday night vibe as well as a great menu. During the day Dungannon has a number of great coffee shops; The Food Doc, Grind, Café Latte and Shambles all provide breakfast, lunch, treats and a great social atmosphere, and a for a quick takeaway coffee and treat it has to be Unhitched! Are there any hidden gems? Dungannon itself is a hidden gem. It’s a great retail destination, with a fantastic variety of family-owned, individual businesses coupled with award-winning restaurants. Our boutiques are second to none… although I might be biased! The Snooty Fox, Bella Blue, Solo, Aurora, Cuba and Tom Morrows, to name but a few, all make up the fabulous shopping experience in Dungannon. What is your favourite thing about living/ working in Dungannon? As a small independent business in Dungannon, our favourite thing is our amazing customers. Their support keeps our dream alive and our community thriving. Every smile, every chat, every purchase means the world to us.

45 Scotch Street, Dungannon www.soloshoesdungannon.co.uk

Laszlo from Emily’s Flowers, Irish Street.

Flowers For Every Occasion BRINGING YOU FRESHLY BAKED BREADS, TASTY TAKEAWAY MEALS AND SWEET TREATS.

your A l o n g w i t he n t i a l s . . . ess everyday 28 Thomas Street, Dungannon BT70 1HN

028 8772 2839 l info@pgfresh.co.uk 118

Nestled in the heart of County Tyrone, Emily’s Flowers is a roud family run orist and long standing Inter ora member, dedicated to bringing colour and joy to every occasion. For over a decade, they have been crafting beautiful bouquets, ot lants, and oral arrangements for weddings, funerals, and special celebrations. Whether you’re marking life’s biggest moments or simply brightening someone’s day, their e ert orists ut care and creativity into every stem. ith two charming shops in Omagh and Dungannon, they specialise in: • Home delivery and online orders. • Walk-in bouquets and custom arrangements. • Seasonal designs – from Christmas decorations and wreaths to Mother’s Day favourites. Visit them and discover why Emily’s Flowers — where owers aren t ust gifts, the re heartfelt e pressions.

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy

1 Georges Street, Omagh BT78 1DE 028 8224 8499 07737 813 273

INSIDE OUR WORLD

www.emilysflowers.co

37 Irish Street, Dungannon BT70 1BD 028 8738 0942 07883 029 007

Cookstown, Dungannon and Omagh www.cuba-clothing.com

ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS | Dungannon & Moy

Success For Dungannon Swifts Northern Ireland’s Leading Destination for Women’s Fashion In May 2025 the Dungannon Swifts achieved a historic milestone by lifting the Irish u for the first time in the club s history after defeating liftonville in the final. hey held on despite being reduced to ten men for more than an hour, and eventually triumphed 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw. Dungannon wifts araded roudly through the town after their trium h, greeted by cheering fans, waving ags and streets filled with blue and white.

Discover the perfect blend of elegance and individuality at The Snooty Fox, one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated women’s boutiques. With two floors of luxury fashion, we bring together the most sought-after international and contemporary brands — from Marc Cain and Essentiel Antwerp to Self-Portrait, Joseph Ribkoff, and many, many more. Whether you’re dressing for a winter wedding, a festive soirée, or simply updating your wardrobe, our curated collections will have you feeling effortlessly chic. Step inside our Dungannon boutique and enjoy a shopping experience like no other. Two floors of designer fashion with Personal styling advice from our expert team. Because fashion is more than what you wear it’s how you feel.

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE TO GIFT THIS CARD — AND EVEN NICER TO RECEIVE IT. One card that rewards, supports, and belongs to us all.

Gift Card Quarter Ad

Gemma Martin from Solo Shoes wearing Essential Antwerp, Jill Menary is wearing reversible Beaumont Sienna Coat and Aine McConaghy is wearing a Stand Studio coat.

We love seeing how you style your Snooty Fox looks. Tag us:

Visit us: 56 Scotch st Dungannon, Co Tyrone

Spend it across thousands of brand names, cafés, salons and stores throughout the town. #OURTOWNOURBELONGING 120

028 8772 4502 At The Snooty Fox, we’re proud to be part of Northern Ireland’s thriving fashion scene. Thank you for supporting local, independent style - we can’t wait to welcome you in-store

Membership fee £58 + VAT per week

DUNGANNON PRIMARY SCHOOL “Preparing Children, Enriching Communities, Shaping Futures.” Children enjoy rich opportunities to build friendships and explore diverse cultures in a respectful, trusting environment. Learning blends hands-on experiences with written work, helping children grasp concepts and apply them to daily life. In this well-equipped school, pupils thrive through collaborative learning.

ICT equipment is essential to delivering the Northern Ireland Curriculum and enhancing learning at Dungannon Primary School.

Dungannon Primary School, established in the late 1960s, serves over 320 pupils across eleven mainstream and five Learning Support Classes. Recent investment has modernised its facilities, including carparks, sensory and soft playrooms, and a sensory garden . Upcoming extension work will further enhance learning spaces. The school celebrates diversity, inclusion and integration, supported by skilled and dedicated staff. Its ethos promotes Christian values, respect and lifelong learning in a nurturing environment. The May 2024 ETI report praised its inclusive, multicultural atmosphere, calling it “an ambassador of diversity.” The school’s motto is: “Preparing Children, Enriching Communities, Shaping Futures”. Principal: David Thompson MBE, B.Ed. (Hons), Dip.A.S.Ed., P.Q.H. (NI) Address: 27 Circular Road Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 6BE Phone Number: 02887722250 Email: dthompson618@c2kni.net Dungannon Primary School ensures every child feels safe, valued and respected. As a Gold Award Rights Respecting School, it promotes tolerance and understanding through initiatives like the School Council, Eco-Club, and Shared Education Programme. Dungannon Primary School is committed to preparing pupils for post-primary education while encouraging them to make meaningful contributions to their local community.

Children develop thinking and maths skills through engaging activities and collaborative learning, sharing ideas to achieve success together.

A love of reading is fostered throughout the school, with targeted support for those needing extra help

Outdoor learning brings classroom concepts to life in a fun, engaging setting.

COLUMN

KNOW THE LAW

Naomi Devlin Family Law Partner

PROTECTING YOUR PENSION ON SEPARATION “Until the date of the For many couples who find themselves in the unfortunate position of going through a separation, quite often dealing with their assets and in particular their pension is the least of their worries. Understandably people often prioritise sorting out childcare arrangements and new homes before focusing their minds on an asset which will only benefit them upon retirement. But your pension, whether it be a private or public sector fund, is a valuable asset and should be treated carefully. A matrimonial agreement is a very useful document for parties separating to work towards. It is a document which severs the financial ties between the parties, providing that they have both disclosed their assets in a fully transparent and open manner and the information associated with their respective assets has been shared. This financial disclosure also includes pension details. When looking at pensions in the context of a separation, both parties need to disclose to each other their funds: Cash Equivalent Transfer Value. The rule of thumb when looking at pension shares usually involves the instruction of an

actuary if the fund value is over £100,000. However, this is not always the case, particularly if there is a mix of private and public funds to look at. The value of a pension during marriage is usually looked at in the time frame of ‘date of marriage – date of separation’. If an actuary is ultimately instructed and a pension sharing value is agreed between the parties, same will be provided for in the matrimonial agreement. However, it is only after the extraction of the Decree Absolute that the pension sharing order can be implemented. Until that date, the parties are continuing to contribute to their funds. Hence if you are the party with the bigger fund which will ultimately be shared with your spouse, it would certainly be in your best interest to progress matters sooner rather than later to protect your pension fund value. At Worthingtons our Matrimonial team are more than happy to assist with any financial queries you have arising as a result of your separation. Partner and Head of Department, Naomi can be contacted on naomid@worthingtonslaw.co.uk or 02891811538.

decree absolute, the parties are continuing to contribute to their funds. If you are the party with the bigger pension fund which will ultimately be shared with your spouse, it would certainly be in your best interest to progress matters sooner rather than later to protect your pension fund value.”

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Adam Reid and Damien McCambridge.

Linda Hughes, Teighan Lyttle and Roisin McAnallen.

Bernard, Malachy and Dermott McElmeel, Pauline McCormick, Bernie Smyth, Marie Collins, Carmel Mallon and Alice McBride.

Malachy McElmeel, Paula Dobbin, Noleen Hughes and Roisin McElmeel.

Dan Shannon, Olivia McElmeel, Conor and Eileen McElmeel, Luke and Nicole Cullen, Erin Campbell and Eoin McElmeel.

Fernando and Ingrida Andre.

MCELMEEL MOBILITY CELEBRATES 75 YEARS Armagh City Hotel played host to a memorable night when the great and good of the wheelchair accessible and adapted vehicle world came together to celebrate the fantastic achievements of local company, McElmeel Mobility Services. Born from humble beginnings in 1950, the company has grown through each decade, setting new standards at every turn. From Tommy John to Malachy and now Conor, each generation has been ably supported by family, friends, neighbours, and a great team of dedicated staff. Now a 4th generation company, McElmeel Mobility works every day to set new standards in keeping disabled drivers and passengers mobile.

Louise Dennis and Lynette Murphy.

Martin and Collette McElmeel.

Brian McLaughlin, Graham Vooght, David Vooght, John Daniel, Keri Whaley and Simon Pearson.

Patricia McCreanor and Fiona McAnallen.

Cheryl and Eugene McGroggan.

Nadine Afshar, Sean Mone and Leona McElroy

Roisin and Martin Hagan.

Mark Snaith, Beth Mitchell and Anton Grimes.

Daryl and Catriona Young. Eileen and Conor McElmeel.

Donal McKenna, Roisin Blake, Kyle Allen and Ben Allen.

Aoife Hughes, Amy Dobbin, Noleen Hughes and Ellie Dobbin.

Aaron and David Kerr. CELEBRATING

Y E AR S I N B U

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George Busby, author of ‘The Spies at Gilnahirk’, alongside Rod Maxwell and Gordon Hunt of the Carryduff Historical Society.

Aidan Campbell with Beth and Michael Porter and Robin Newton, former speaker at the Northern Ireland Assembly. Michael’s father Robert served in the Merchant Navy on Atlantic Convoys.

Aidan with Daphne and Lucinda Rutledge and Dorothy Reid. Daphne and Lucinda’s father Sgt Bill Rutledge served in the Pioneer Corps. Also, Marie Harris (Marie Curie Hospice) and Robin Newton.

Aidan with Hilda and Leslie Shanks and Robin Newton. Hilda’s mother Sgt Margaret Johnson served in the WAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force).

‘EAST BELFAST & WWII – THEY ALSO SERVED’ Aidan with Carol and William Dalzell and Robin Newton. Carol’s uncle, LAC Ted Ross served in the RAFVR as a radio operator and spent time behind enemy lines.

‘East Belfast & WWII – They Also Served’ is Aidan Campbell’s latest local history publication in support of local charity. It was published to coincide with the 80th anniversary year of the end of the Second World War. The book looks at the military service of several people with connections to east Belfast who volunteered to serve. The well-attended event was held at Hillmount Garden Centre, Gilnahirk and introduced by Robin Newton MBE. Aidan Campbell then gave a presentation, after which books were on sale. ‘East Belfast & WWII – They Also Served’ is available to purchase at Hillmount, Gilnahirk; Hamilton News, Cregagh; and Museum of Orange Heritage, Cregagh Road. It will make a great Christmas present too.

Aidan with Frances Gibson and Helen Stewart whose father Fit. Lieu lexander c eown C was an fighter pilot. lso, aymond Turner and oris cGuffin from the ast Belfast istorical Society.

Christine Campbell and Janna Moore both have ancestry who served during WWII.

Aidan with Lilian and George Cherry, George’s father Thomas James Cherry served in the Royal Artillery and was evacuated from Dunkirk. 128

obin Newton introduces ‘ ast Belfast – They Also Served’ to a large audience at Hillmount during October 2025.

Ulster Tatler In Conversation with...

ARTIST AND AUTHOR DAWN CROTHERS Belfast-based artist Dawn Crothers has spent nearly two decades enchanting audiences with her vibrant oil paintings and distinctive naïve style. Her whimsical snails, playful animals, and colourful scenes capture a unique sense of joy and imagination. Now, Dawn’s creative world has expanded from canvas to page with the release of her debut children’s picture book, The Snail Artist. We sat down with her in her Belfast studio to chat about inspiration, balance, and what comes next in her ever-evolving artistic journey.

art and my writing come from the same place, that desire to connect with people emotionally, to make them smile, and to remind them that imagination has no limits. Children’s literature has the power to shape how young people see the world. What message or feeling do you hope your readers, both children and parents, take away from your debut picture book? I hope The Snail Artist encourages children to see the beauty in small things, and to feel proud of their creativity, no matter who they are or where they come from. The little snail in my story might be tiny, but he’s brave, curious, and full of ideas, I think that’s something every child (and adult!) can relate to. For parents, I hope the book is a reminder of how powerful art can be in bringing families together, sparking imagination, and creating joy.

Your art has always been known for its emotion and imagination. ow did you find the transition from painting on canvas to storytelling on the page and what surprised you most about the process? It felt like a very natural step, to be honest. My paintings have always told little stories of their own, especially the snails, animals, and characters that seem to take on personalities as I paint them. When I started writing The Snail Artist, I realised I was simply giving those characters voices and adventures that had been living in my imagination for years. What surprised me most was how similar writing is to painting, it’s all about layering, colour, rhythm and emotion, ust in a di erent medium. Many of your paintings and now your book characters seem to capture a sense of wonder in everyday life. Where do you find inspiration or your imagery and your stories? I’ve always been fascinated by the little things that people often overlook, a snail in the garden, the shape of a tree, a colourful bird outside the window. I think there’s so much beauty in the ordinary. Growing up on the Shore Road in Belfast, I was surrounded by nature and texture, seashells, fossils, wild owers and those early impressions still shape my work today. The imagination, the

whimsy, even the humour in my paintings and stories all come from that sense of childlike wonder I’ve never quite lost. reati ity o ten re ects the rhythm o daily life. What does a typical creative day look like for you now — are there rituals, chaos, calm, or a little of everything? A little bit of everything! My studio is in an old stable building on the Lismachan Estate, which gives me this lovely mix of peace and creative buzz. I usually start the day with a co ee and a walk with my dog, Bodie, before heading into the studio. Some days are calm and focused, just me, music, and paint, and others are a happy kind of chaos, especially when I’m teaching or preparing for an exhibition. I’ve learned to embrace both sides; the quiet and the messy are equally important to my creative ow. As both an artist and now an author, how do you balance the visual and emotional storytelling in your work? Do you see your paintings and writing as part of the same world? Absolutely, they’re completely connected. My paintings often start from a feeling or a story that I can see vividly in my head. Writing allows me to explore that world further, to imagine what happens before or after the moment captured on canvas. I think both my 129

You’ve achieved so much already, from celebrated exhibitions to now publishing your first book. hat s ne t on your creative horizon — more stories, new art collections, or something entirely unexpected? I think it’ll always be a mix of both. Painting will always be my first love, but I’ve really fallen in love with storytelling too. I’m working on new pieces in the studio and already have ideas for future books. I love that my world keeps expanding, new projects, new collaborations, and always something colourful and joyful on the horizon. That’s the beauty of being an artist, there’s always another story to tell. The Snail Artist will be released in November 2025. Follow Dawn’s latest paintings, prints, and creative projects at www.dawncrothers.com. Her new book will be available from retailers throughout the UK and Ireland and also available from Dawns website, and her gallery and gift shop Lismachan Courtyard, 378a Belmont Road Belfast BT4 2NF. Follow her on her social pages @dawncrothersartist on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

November 2025

ARTS DIARY

“On paper, Dear Arabella could have been quite a downbeat story. However, peppered with Jones’ trademark wit, it was authentic, it felt current, it was emotive and it left me with a tear in my eye.”

EDITED BY KELLIE BURCH

KELLIE@ULSTERTATLER.COM

DEAR ARABELLA PRESS NIGHT I am a huge fan of Marie Jones and so I was beyond delighted when I was invited to the press night of the new adaptation of her play, Dear Arabella. Initially staged in 2018, this production was directed by Matthew McElhinney,, who did a phenomenal job with his reimaginings of Jones’ Stones in His Pockets and A Night in November. Dear Arabella tells the story of three women trapped by circumstance in post-Second World War Belfast. There’s Jean, whose life revolves around caring for her ageing mother. A sudden death on her street makes Jean walk out on her life to explore what more is out there. Then there’s Elsie, who starts the day looking for her missing cat. She is angered by the lack of empathy from her husband, who returned from war a shell of the man she fell in love with. Finally there is the play’s namesake, Arabella. Trapped in a home that was meant to be somewhere to raise her family, Arabella is a young widow whose husband is lost at sea. As the play unfolds, the paths – and stories – of the three women become intertwined as they all reach a breaking point. The audience follows their journey as they aim to break free from the shackles that have kept them rooted, and frustrated for so long. I thought this staging was remarkable. The three actresses were sublime and turned in awless erformances. ean layed by Katie Tumelty) has perfect comic timing. Her air of independence is tempered with glimpses of the vulnerability that lurks below the surface. Elsie layed by Blue Lights’ Joanne Crawford) was completely engaging. Her deadpan delivery gave many moments of light relief as she spoke about how she can only escape the suffocating silence of her marriage by reliving her glory days as an usher in the Paramount Picture House where she was always in the spotlight. Arabella layed by Jayne Wisener is the counter oint to ean she resents a ainfully fragile figure as she struggles to admit that her husband is not merely lost at sea, but has perished. However, as her inner turmoil unfolds, we get to see glimpses of the strength at her core. On paper, Dear Arabella could have been quite a downbeat story. However, peppered with Jones’ trademark wit, it was authentic, it felt current, it was emotive and it left me with a tear in my eye. The press night of Dear Arabella took place on 25th September.

Coosh, Marie Jones, Nicola and Kenny Mc Katie Short. Mairead Anderson and

Set designer Tracey Lindsay and Vincent McCurry.

Mary and Tony Reid.

Mary Bermingham, Ursula Armstrong and Grainne McBride. 130

Maureen Harron, Adrian and Patricia Clements.

Fiona Gilmore, Jacqui Vance and Caroline Shaw.

Catherine Donnelly and Brenda Callaghan.

BELFAST EXPOSED EXCLUSIVE BREAKFAST LAUNCH One of the reasons I am such a fan of Belfast Exposed is because of the gallery’s emphasis on hosting important and thought-provoking exhibitions. They recently took this up a level by presenting three simultaneous exhibitions showcasing the work of four seminal Polish photographers as part of the UK/Poland Cultural Season 2025. The display of the works by ofia det, Anna Beata Bohdziewicz, Teresa ier s a, and neta r es ows a works as a joint exploration of how photography has been used across generations to question identity, memory, and the visibility of women’s lives. These four artists demonstrate that the act of representing oneself is never neutral; it is a form of agency, a declaration of existence, and a challenge to cultural constraints. Together, they illuminate how women have used photography to examine identity, gender, and cultural memory on their own terms, and in doing so, redefined the possibilities of the medium itself. he wor of ier y s a and neta Grzeszykowska jointly interrogate the representation of women in art and society, while Rydet’s monumental Sociological Record provides an extraordinary archive of rural life in Poland during a time of rapid social change, and Bohdziewicz’s long-running Foto-Diary, begun in the early 1980s, provides a powerful record of private and public life in Poland’s late communist and post-communist eras. To launch the showcase of the three exhibitions – In Her Own Image; Gathering Time; and otod ienni – Belfast Exposed hosted an exclusive breakfast event to offer the rare opportunity to meet the team responsible for the stunning display. On arrival, guests, including British Council Chairman r at adford ; artist Chad Alexander; and Belfast Exposed’s am obb, were treated to coffee and croissants before being welcomed by Belfast Exposed CEO Deirdre obb. Next up, guests had the opportunity to hear from re resentatives from both the Adam ic iewic nstitute, who are responsible for the international promotion of Polish culture, and the British Council co organisers of the oland Season 2025. To conclude the talks, Karolina i bi s a, co curator of the three e hibitions, took to the stage. She said: “By presenting these artists together, yet in distinct spaces, we are able to reveal the depth and diversity of women’s contributions to Polish photography, as well as the connections between personal experience and collective history.” The e clusive brea fast launch of n er wn mage athering Time otod ienni too place on ctober. The e hibitions run until 0 ecember.

E, artist Anetta an Dr Katy Radford MB British Council Chairm re Robb. ird De O CE d ose fast Exp Grzeszykowska and Bel

Artist Chad Alexander, Colette Norwood, artist Anetta Grzeszykowska, Belfast Exposed CEO Deirdre Robb and British Council Chairman Dr Katy Radford MBE.

Maurica Mackle and Colette Norwood (British Council).

Artist Anetta Grzeszykowska and Mervyn Smyth. 131

Conor O’Brien and Sam Robb from Belfast Exposed.

November 2025

ARTS DIARY

RUA EXHIBITION OPENING Once again the Ulster Museum is hosting the Royal Ulster Academy of Arts Annual Exhibition. A highlight of the cultural calendar, this landmark exhibition, curated by Northern Ireland’s largest artist-led visual arts organisation, is one event I ensure I attend without fail. It seems that I am not the only fan. he official launch of the th edition, which took place in October, was widely supported by guests such as Pottery Throw Down winner James Stanley Watson; former RUA president Betty Brown; Lady Mary Peters; and writer Glenn Patterson. Unveiling over 300 works of art across painting, sculpture, ceramics, print and textiles, RUA President Dan Dowling opened the event, which was once again proudly sponsored by KPMG. This year’s prestigious showcase features emerging talent as well as established artists including Neil Shawcross, Carol Graham, Brian Ballard, Andrew Cranston, Donovan Wylie, John Rainey, and notable RUA members such as Jennifer Trouton, Catherine McWilliams and Colin Watson. This year, for the first time, raft , the sector lead body for the promotion and development of craft in orthern Ireland, is resenting a guest showcase within the exhibition with an exciting presentation of ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery and metalwork by some of Northern Ireland’s most accomplished contem orary designer ma ers. he e hibition also features artworks selected from open submissions, showcasing artists from across the world. As well as the physical exhibition, art lovers can engage with innovative creations through curated talks, artist-led workshops, and opportunities to meet and chat with artists as part of the Education Programme, which is supported by the Kingsbridge Foundation and the Arts Council of orthern reland and The ational otter . What I love most about the annual RUA exhibition is that it is so diverse. There is something on display to appeal to all sensibilities. There is a wealth of talented artists to peruse - from those taking their first ste s on their artistic journey to those who have honed their craft over the years. The space itself is remarkable and by being hosted in the Ulster Museum, the exhibition is accessible to such a varied audience which very much supports the ethos of the RUA which places such an emphasis on nurturing and celebrating artistic e cellence. The opening of the Royal Ulster Academy of Arts annual exhibition took place on 17 October and runs until 4 anuar .

Michael Doherty, RUA President Dan Dowling and Peter Richards on.

TV’s Pottery Throw Down winner James Stanley Watson.

Anna Walsh and Kim Mawhinney.

Carol Graham and ileen Griffiths.

Glenn Patterson and Julia d’Arcy.

Melanie Harrison, Anne O’Prey, Noelle McAlinden and Clare Sandstrom. 132

Gillian Hetherington and Lady Mary Peters.

Former RUA President Betty Brown.

ULSTER IN BLOOM

Derry City and Strabane District Council Celebrates Double Success at Bloom Awards Derry City and Strabane District Council is celebrating a remarkable double win after being crowned winner of the Large Town/City category at the 2025 Translink Ulster in Bloom Awards, and also securing a Gold Award in the Britain in Bloom competition in the Small City category. These achievements recognise the district’s exceptional commitment to creating a vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Picking up Gold at the Britain in Bloom Awards.

The Ulster in Bloom competition, organised by Translink in partnership with the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA), celebrates the outstanding gardening achievements of local councils, community groups, and volunteers across Northern Ireland. The award highlights the dedication and collaboration of council teams and local communities in maintaining and enhancing the area’s green spaces. This year’s Ulster in Bloom awards ceremony took place at the impressive Belfast Grand Central Station, where representatives from across the region were honoured for their efforts in beautifying their local environments through creativity, environmental awareness, and community spirit.

Ulster in Bloom - Winners in the Large Town/City Category.

Adding to the success, the Britain in Bloom Gold Award, announced in Brighton on Friday 31st October, further cements Derry and Strabane’s reputation for excellence in horticulture, sustainability, and civic pride on a national stage. www.derrystrabane.com

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN CELEBRATE BLOOMING SUCCESS Community gardeners and Council staff from Ards and North Down were praised for their dedication as the results of this year’s Translink Ulster in Bloom were announced. Congratulations to Donaghadee for winning 1st place in the Town Category and to Crawfordsburn for achieving 2nd place in the Village Category, a remarkable feat for its first year of entry. Donaghadee went on to further success, winning a Gold Award in the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom Awards, held in Brighton. The success reflects the hard work and community spirit of many local volunteers who maintain floral displays and environmental projects throughout the year. Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, commented: “These awards are a testament to the passion and pride our residents and communities have for their local environment. From colourful gardens to sustainable planting schemes, the creativity and commitment on display is truly inspiring.” Congratulations to all participants as we look forward to another year of growth, greenery and community spirit.

133

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell (second right) with (L to R) Frank Allen, Translink Chairman; Thomas Price, Newry Mourne and Down District Council; Vivien Lovell, Saintfield Development Association; Lawrence Murphy, Saintfield Development Association and Cllr Billy Webb, NILGA President celebrating Translink Ulster in Bloom success for Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

ULSTER IN BLOOM SUCCESS FOR SAINTFIELD AND NEWCASTLE CELEBRATED BY COUNCIL Saintfield and Newcastle are blooming with pride after green fingered community gardeners and dedicated council staff were recognised in the 2025 Ulster in Bloom Awards. This year, Saintfield took first place in the Large Village category, while Newcastle earned a highly commended third place in the Small Town category. The annual competition, organised by Translink and the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA), recognises the outstanding gardening achievements and environmental stewardship of local communities across Northern Ireland’s council areas. This year’s entries showcased exceptional community pride, commitment, promotion of wellbeing and sustainability. From colourful village displays to vibrant urban planting schemes as well as initiatives which boost biodiversity and enhance the climate. The 2025 Award winners by category are: Small Village - Ballynure (Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council); Village - Donaghmore (Mid Ulster District Council); Large Village - Saintfield (Newry, Mourne and Down District Council); Small Town Randalstown (Antrim and Newtownabbey); Town - Donaghadee (Ards and North Down Borough Council); Large Town/Small City - Antrim (Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council) and Large Town/City - Derry (Derry City and Strabane District Council). The dedication and creativity of the ‘Saintfield Greens Team’ was recognised by the judges, who praised Saintfield’s entry for its exceptional Health and Wellbeing Garden, as well as its imaginative ‘Bugingham Palace’ feature. The creation of a new Sensory Garden in the Memorial Garden was also highlighted as an inspiring addition for residents and visitors alike. Newcastle was also recognised for the floral features enhancing its popular seafront that secured it third place in the Small Town Award Category. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, extended his congratulations to all those involved for their hard work and dedication. “The Ulster in Bloom Awards highlight the incredible pride, creativity and community spirit that flourish across our district,” said Cllr Campbell. “For Saintfield to win first place and Newcastle to secure third place reflects the dedication of volunteers and community groups who work tirelessly to make our towns and villages greener, cleaner and more welcoming. Congratulations also to the dedicated Council staff on the ground. “These efforts go far beyond planting - they build connections, promote wellbeing and show what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. I want to extend my sincere thanks and congratulations to everyone involved for helping Newry, Mourne and Down bloom at its very best.”

ULSTER IN BLOOM

Ulster in Bloom Awards

Antrim and Newtownabbey Celebrate Success at Ulster in Bloom and Best Kept Awards

Antrim and Newtownabbey’s towns and villages achieved outstanding results across five categories in this year’s Ulster in Bloom competition, recognised for their vibrant plant and floral displays:

Towns and villages across the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey have once again excelled in two prestigious competitions — Translink’s Ulster in Bloom Awards and the Northern Ireland Amenity Council’s Best Kept Awards.

SMALL VILLAGE: 1st Place - Ballynure 2nd Place - Ballyeaston

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said: “I’m delighted that my hometown, Antrim, has been named Best Kept Large Town in the 2025 Northern Ireland Best Kept Awards and recognised once again in Ulster in Bloom. These achievements reflect the incredible pride, care, and dedication shown by our residents, businesses, and Council teams.

LARGE VILLAGE: 3rd Place - Templepatrick

Congratulations to all of our towns and villages on their well-deserved awards. Together, these honours highlight the strong community spirit and commitment to making Antrim and Newtownabbey beautiful, sustainable, and welcoming places to live and visit.”

SMALL TOWN: Winner - Randalstown LARGE TOWN: Winner - Antrim SPECIAL AWARD WELLBEING CATEGORY: Winner - Randalstown

Best Kept Awards

Members of Ballynure Residents’ Association receive the runner-up title in the ‘Best Kept Small Village’ category.

Success continued in the Best Kept Northern Ireland Awards, with the Borough’s towns and villages recognised for their exceptional standards of cleanliness, presentation, and community pride: BEST KEPT LARGE TOWN: 1st Place - Antrim BEST KEPT LARGE HOUSING AREA: 1st Place - Merville Garden Village BEST KEPT SHELTERED HOUSING AREA: 1st Place - Neilsbrook Fold BEST KEPT SMALL VILLAGE: 2nd Place - Ballynure

Antrim scoops Northern Ireland’s ‘Best Kept Large Town 2025’ award. (L–R) Alderman John Smyth, Joe Mahon, patron of Northern Ireland Amenity Council, Paul Mawhinney Head of Parks, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and John McEwen, Vice Chairman of Northern Ireland Amenity Council.

Merville Garden Village residents were awarded with the ‘Best Kept Large Housing Area 2025.’ 135

Antrim and Newtownabbey celebrate success at the Translink Ulster in Bloom Awards, with recognition for Antrim, Ballynure, Ballyeaston, Templepatrick and Randalstown.

Promotional Feature

MORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR For Johnny Quinn, property is about people - not just places. Few understand Northern Ireland’s housing market quite like Johnny Quinn. As director of Quinn Estate Agents, he’s built a business grounded in professionalism, trust, and community values, with four thriving offices across County Down and a reputation for raising the bar in estate agency. Speaking to Ulster Tatler, Johnny shares his thoughts on the changing property landscape, the importance of regulation and transparency, and why genuine relationships remain the real foundation of success. Tell us about the team that powers Quinn Estate Agents. Our biggest strength is our people. We have a team of dedicated professionals who genuinely care about helping clients move forward. Many have been with us since the early days, giving the business stability, continuity, and deep local knowledge. We’re proud to have very low staff turnover - our team enjoys what they do, and that passion shows in the service they provide. New colleagues learn alongside experienced team members who’ve seen the market evolve over the years, which helps keep our standards consistently high. We’ve built a supportive environment where teamwork, trust, and communication come first. That culture translates directly into better service and better results for our clients. Estate agency can be misunderstood - what do people most often get wrong about the industry, and how do you challenge those perceptions? People often think we’re focused purely on the sale rather than doing what’s best for the client. At Quinn, being a regulated Propertymark agent means everything we do is transparent and accountable. Every offer and communication is logged, and if a client ever has a concern, there’s a clear route to independent redress through the Property Ombudsman. That kind of oversight ensures our integrity and builds trust. We’re unapologetic about doing our job properly and aim to ensure every client achieves the best possible result. In what ways does a good estate agent add value beyond simply selling a house? A good estate agent isn’t just a salesperson - they’re a strategist, negotiator, and communicator.

Johnny Quinn

At Quinn, we add value through exposure, process, and communication. With four offices and more than 20,000 social media followers, we make sure every property reaches as many people as possible. The more eyes on a home, the more viewings, offers, and stronger outcomes for our clients. Behind the scenes, our systems are designed to forget nothing. Every enquiry, follow-up and offer is tracked. We carry out full due diligence before recommending an offer - checking proof of funds and intent to proceed - which helps avoid fall-throughs and keeps transactions on track. Clear communication is at the heart of what we do. Many sales fall apart because people aren’t kept informed. We make sure buyers, sellers, and solicitors stay connected from start to finish. A lot of agents see “sale agreed” as job done. For us, that’s only halfway. The real work starts once the sale is agreed, and we stay with our clients every step of the way until completion. What’s the most common mistake homeowners make before putting their property on the market? Without question, it’s overvaluing their home. Many sellers believe a higher asking price leaves room to negotiate, but it usually reduces interest and leads to a slower sale. Some agents overvalue to win the listing, then suggest dropping the price later. At Quinn, we take a more honest approach. We focus on strategy rather than flattery, explaining the pros and cons of different pricing options. A well-priced home attracts early interest and competition, which often delivers a higher final price. We also remind sellers that a market appraisal isn’t the same as a formal valuation. Our appraisals are based on data, local insight, and experience - all designed to position a property in the best possible way. My advice is simple: don’t choose the agent who promises the highest figure, choose the one who provides the clearest plan and is open about how they’ll achieve it.

What trends are currently influencing property prices and buyer behaviour? The market still comes down to supply and demand - and right now, demand remains strong. In parts of County Down, more homes are being bought as shortterm holiday lets, which reduces stock for local buyers and increases competition. At the same time, planning challenges and limited new-build development mean fewer properties coming to market. Buyer behaviour is changing too. People are thinking longer-term, choosing homes they can grow into. Features like home offices, utility rooms, flexible spaces, and gardens are now top priorities - a trend that came from the work-from-home lifestyle many now enjoy. Buyers are also more informed, using online tools to research values before they view. But information can only go so far - experience, local knowledge, and good communication still make all the difference. Even in a digital age, property remains a people business, and that’s what makes it so rewarding. What advice would you give to young people trying to get onto the property ladder today? Get your finances in order before you start looking. It’s one of the biggest mistakes I see - people fall in love with a property before speaking to a mortgage advisor or checking what they can borrow. By the time they’re ready, the property is gone. The first step should always be to get an agreement in principle and understand exactly what you can afford. That gives you confidence and credibility when making an offer. It’s also important to manage expectations. Your first home doesn’t need to be your forever home - it’s your starting point. Focus on getting on the ladder, building equity, and learning from the experience. And finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Talk to advisors, agents, and people who’ve been through the process. A bit of preparation and patience can make all the difference.

Quinn Estate Agents Expands Leading County Down agency, Quinn Estate Agents, has announced the acquisition of Alan Newell Estate Agents in Carryduff, marking a major milestone in its expansion journey and establishing Quinn as one of the largest estate agencies in County Down. Founded in Ballynahinch in 2010 by managing director Jonathan Quinn, the business has grown steadily into a trusted multi-branch agency operating in Ballynahinch, Banbridge, Downpatrick, and now Carryduff. Home to a team of

County Down’s Leading Estate Agent with branches in Banbridge, Ballynahinch, Downpatrick and Carryduff

quinnestateagents.com

16 property professionals, alongside mortgage specialists from Ritchie & McLean Mortgage Solutions, Quinn offers clients a full property service across sales, lettings and mortgages. Alan Newell, founder of Alan Newell Estate Agents, started his business more than 40 years ago, and remained the longest established estate agency in Carryduff. Building a respected reputation for service and trust within the local community, Alan Newell Estate Agents will now trade under the Quinn brand, combining Newell’s heritage with Quinn’s modern, clientfocused approach. Commenting on the acquisition of the Carryduff branch, Jonathan Quinn,

managing director at Quinn Estate Agents, said: “Alan Newell and his team have been at the heart of Carryduff’s property market for four decades. We are proud to continue that legacy under the Quinn name, bringing innovation, growth, and a people-first ethos to the community. This acquisition strengthens our footprint across County Down and reflects our commitment to invest in local towns while delivering the highest standards of service in sales, lettings, and property management.” With four branches, Quinn Estate Agents is firmly established as “The Home of Growth”, blending professionalism and personal service to support clients and communities across Northern Ireland.

Sales Lettings New Developments Mortgage Services Free Valuations

Belfast Lord Mayor.

GRAND LODGE OF IRELAND CELEBRATES 300 YEARS OF FREEMASONRY IN BELFAST On 4th October 2025, the Grand Lodge of Ireland marked its Tercentenary with a prestigious celebration at Belfast City Hall. Despite travel disruptions caused by Storm Amy, the event welcomed a full house of Brethren and international guests, including delegations from reece and labama. ed by ost or ro ichard . . nsor, the rand odge fficers o ened roceedings with ceremonial dignity. ey moment was the resentation of , to seven local charities, re ecting reemasonry s enduring commitment to community service. The evening concluded with a Gala Banquet, honouring 300 years of Irish Masonic heritage.

Grand Master Richard and Hazel Ensor.

David and Wendy Martin, Linda and John Scott.

Asst. Grand Master Grand Lodge Ireland John Montgomery and Ann Montgomery.

Norman and Clare Stewart.

Emma and Darryl Mason.

Liam and Sarah Boyle.

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Grand Master Richard Ensor, Frances Lawther, Sandra and David Robinson (Asst. Grand Secretary).

Rennie, Angela, Jane and Gardiner McGrath.

Provincial Grand Inspector Nigel Williamson, Supreme Grand King Neil Coey, Grand Master Athens Ioannis Benetatos and Philip Daley (Grand Lodge Ireland).

Stephen and Lynn Mawhinney, Shelley and Ivan Louden.

Mark Hammond and Louise Rainey.

Roy and Flo McCall, Bob and Brenda Smith, Ronnie and Cynthia Cornett.

Norman and Debra Farquhar, Elaine and David Woodrow.

Conor Gray and Joanne Barnes.

Myra and Jay Belmonte.

Alice O’Neill. Oliver Rawding, Gary and Andrea Gregg, Ivan Ford, Sarah McCann, Richard and Tara Blith.

Provincial Grand Master Gilbert and Thelma Irvine, Debra and Norman Farquhar. 139

Mary Russell, John Donovan and Clionadh O’Donovan.

Jayne and David Selby.

Celebrating 1970 2025

years

55 years in business called for a Big Celebration! Many congratulations to Victor and Helen Bowman on reaching such a huge milestone! Over 50 years ago a young but determined glazier called Victor decided to chase his dream of supplying top-quality glazing products to the public and the building trade. Together with his wife Helen, over the next few decades they developed and grew the business until Bowman Windows became a household name. 55 years on, Bowman Windows is still one of the leading window and door suppliers throughout Ireland. 140

Celebrating 1970 2025

Over Half A Century of Quality Craftsmanship

ictor’s early office

Fifty-five years ago, a young glazier with big dreams and steady hands took a leap of faith. Armed with determination, skill, and a clear vision, Victor Bowman set out to create something special — a business that would bring top-quality glazing products to homes and builders across Northern Ireland. Alongside his wife Helen, Victor poured heart and soul into his work, and together they built not only a business but a reputation — one grounded in

years

Early Factory

craftsmanship and personal service. Through dedication and long hours, Bowman Windows, located in Banbridge, steadily grew from a small family venture into a trusted name throughout Ireland.

Working in Paris in the 1980s. Brown&Brown_UlsterTatler_211025.qxp_Layout 1 21/10/2025 11:32 Page 1

• APS Roofline • APS Architectural Aluminium Would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Bowman Windows on achieving their remarkable 55th Anniversary!

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Celebrating 1970 2025

years

Today, Bowman Windows remains a symbol of quality and community. Still family-run, still passionate, and still serving generations of customers, the company stands as a shining example of what perseverance and pride in your work can achieve. Reaching fifty-five years in business is no small feat — and it certainly called for a celebration! Staff recently gathered for a morning filled with laughter, stories, and delicious food, reflecting on decades of memories and milestones. As the celebrations came to a close,

Victor and Helen expressed thanks to those who have been part of their journey. From humble beginnings to industry leaders, Bowman Windows’ story is one of vision, perseverance and community spirit — proof that when passion meets purpose, great things truly stand the test of time. www.bowmanwindowsni.co.uk

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55 Years of Bowman Windows A proud Northern Irish success story. From one local business to another, congratulations on 55 remarkable years. Camden and Bowman have grown together. United by quality, innovation, and a belief that every home deserves the best. Here’s to the next chapter. Find out more: camdengroup.co.uk Over 40 years as a leading manufacturer of windows & doors to the UK and Ireland.

DUNGANNON WINDOW COMPANY LTD

Trade Specialists in PVC Sliding Sash Windows & Aluminium Products Congratulations to Bowman Windows on their 55th Anniversary

15A Viewfort, Killymeal Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT71 6LP Tel: (NI) 028 (ROI) 048 8772 5016 sales@dungannonwindows.co.uk www.eurosash.com 143

LOOKING BACK ISSUE: NOVEMBER 2016

ULSTER TATLER AWARDS 2016 James Nesbitt pictured with the team from Corick House.

CDPB DINNER AT THE CULLODEN Bob McGowanSmyth, Liz McGowan-Smyth, Michele O’Neill and Domhnail O’Neill.

A BACKWARD GLANCE

Brian Ballard with daughter Freya Ballard and Eve Gilsenan and Aoife Magee at the launch of his exhibition at ArtisAnn Gallery.

BBQ IN THE CITY

Kathryn McKeown and Louise Vance pictured at the Tourism NI BBQ at The National.

MEMORY IN FOCUS EXHIBITION

PUB OF THE YEAR AWARDS LAUNCH Alyson Magee, Chris Woodouse, Peter McVerry, Gary McDonald and Martin Breen. 144

Deric Henderson launched the Memory in Focus exhibition at the Strule Arts Centre.