December 2013 East Belfast by Bloom

East Belfast Issue 23 • December 2013

www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook

Happy Christmas ! E N O Y R E EV

Free

M BLOOO IS TW s year ! OLD

The latest news from the community delivered to you for free each month.

Food & cookery. festive crafts, gifts available on your doorstep & more! a focus on AUTHOR Aidan campbell’s new books plus issues that matter to you.

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Shop Local in East Belfast e itag

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100% of your claim guaranteed your claim guaranteed 100% of your claim guaranteed

2 Holywood Road, Belfast BT4 1NTT

DECember 2013

Eas Belfast is in t Bloom !

4 Local News What’s been happening and what’s going to happen? Here’s our analysis

18 bloom loves

Contents

We know everyone at this time of year is yammering on about Christmas this and Christmas that. Which is all well and good and we’re very happy for you. But aren’t we all forgetting something at this special time of year? Yes that’s right its the two year anniversary of Bloom - Happy Bloommas! I know it snows on the festive parade a little bit but we hope you’ll join with us in a glass of eggnog to celebrate two whole years of publishing East Belfast’s favourite A5 sized magazine. You’ll also see in our news section that we have some changes in store which will see a slightly different approach to distribution starting in 2014 but before you all hit the streets with placards saying “dont do that” and “careful now”, don’t worry, you’ll still be able to get your paws on the magazine every single month or read it on our jazzy new amazing website! Very exciting www.bloommagazine.co.uk A huge thank you for your unwavering support since we launched and to all the local businesses that continue to support what we do. We couldn’t do this without you, them and us. Go team Bloom! Cringe. Have a good one and see you on the other side.

Stuart, Angela, Juanita Bloom Magazine Belfast @bloommag Bloom Magazine 308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GX Tel: 07719 104862 Editorial: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Advertising: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk Accounts: info@bloommagazine.co.uk Printed by Nicholson Bass www.nicholsonbass.com Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

We have tried and tested three fantastic local businesses. Here’s the lowdown

20 xmas crafts If it’s too nippy to go outside, here’s a festive task with tasty results

22 xmas gifts Practical pressies from a selection of businesses on your doorstep

26 health and beauty The Secret Day Spa profile some goodies for body and soul.

30 library reopens Ballyhackamore library has reopened its doors after a refurb. We have the scoop

32 local heritage Prolific local historian Aidan Campbell unveils two stunning new titles.

what’s on

Nothing to do this month? Don’t spoof, check all this lot out

40 girl loves vintage Our wonderful resident vintage hunter reveals her divine discoveries.

44 cookbook Check out these incredible festive creations from Canteen at The Mac

47 property Charles from Stewart & Co on the benefits of using a letting agent

body and sole Duncan’s expert advice on keeping your feet gym -ready

54 fan of the cloth A nappy idea that started over a cuppa and is now scooping awards bloommagazine.co.uk 3

l Locas w e N s View

Bloom News

Email: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Twitter: @bloommag Facebook: Bloom Magazine Belfast Web: bloommagazine.co.uk

THE BIG CHRISTMAS SWITCH ON! Ballyhackamore Village is preparing for its annual Christmas lights switch-on which will take place on Saturday 7th December. The lights will be switched on by popular Disney characters Jake (Jake and the Neverland Pirates) and Sofia the first at 5pm, who will be joined by excited children from some of the local schools’ choirs as well as a spectacular lantern parade by Wandsworth Community Centre. Citybeat breakfast presenter Stephen Clements, will entertain the crowd with a lively radio roadshow. A jam-packed family fun day takes place from 1pm-4pm in Kirkpatrick Memorial Church with balloon modelling and face painting. On 14th December, the new addition of the Christmas Fair with speciality stalls providing the perfect gift options. Brenda Shankey, Chair of Ballyhackamore Business Association said “The Christmas lights switch on has not only become a favourite seasonal event in Ballyhackamore, but an important one too. Supporting local retailers is crucial to their survival. A big thank you to all involved in making the event a huge success including Kirkpatrick Memorial Church, St Colmcilles Church, Wandsworth Community Centre, and Belfast City Council for their continued support.”

The Big Switch On Schedule: 1pm - 4pm – Kirkpatrick Memorial Church will be running a children’s party in the church. Parents can leave their children at the party and do some shopping.To book a place for a child at the party, contact 028 9047 3891 3.30pm - 5.30pm - Radio roadshow by Citybeat / 3.45pm-4.30pm - Carol singing by local schools’ choirs 5pm - The switch on by Sofia the First + Jake the Neverland Pirate. Lantern Parade departs from village via Earlswood Ave 6pm – Fireworks display at Strandtown Primary School

YOU CAN LEARN YOUR DJ Skills FROM THE PRINCE’S TRUST Want to gain skill and qualifications in DJing? If you are 16-20 and unemployed, get started with the Prince’s Trust and see what you can do from 9 to 13 December at the Strand Cinema! Gain a qualification in DJ skills, get to grips with real equipment, learn how to perform a mix from the experts, enjoy a fun week, improving your communication skills and confidence. Lunch and travel expenses are provided. An optional three months of support is also available. To find out more, contact outreachNI@princes-trust.org.uk or call 028 9089 5000. 4 bloommagazine.co.uk

BREAKING NEWS : BLOOM IS CHANGING 1. On Your Doorstep

2. Don’t panic - Get Your Bloom Locally...

It’s two years since we launched Bloom. We’ve grown and changed significantly over that time and the support from local businesses and you the reader has been a fantastic inspiration and motivation. It’s why we started in the first place; to showcase the community. It’s hard work and we are a very small operation but we want to grow further and reach even more people. Distribution through the letterboxes is an absolute must but we are changing things slightly. Previously you have received the magazine every month and Bloom will indeed continue as a monthly publication, however you will now receive it every other month. So the next time you hear Bloom drop on the door mat will be February, April, June and so on. In the months in between when you don’t get Bloom, we will be delivering the magazine to a brand new set of homes in East Belfast who have never received it through their letterbox which means we are reaching twice as many people in the community in the space of 8-9 weeks.This is very important for us to get the message out there to more and more people and for local businesses to share their message too.We couldn’t have got this far without your support so we hope our new plan works for you.

Don’t worry, because in the month you dont get Bloom delivered to you, we have outlined below our local network of stockists who have kindly agreed to make the magazine available for you to pick up. We encourage you to call in to the one handiest to you or handy to where you shop. Pick up your copy there and maybe stay and have a coffee, buy something and continue our goal of shopping local. PLUS we have just confirmed that Tesco Knocknagoney have kindly agreed to stock Bloom beneath their community board on the way out past the tills which is amazing news! We thank them for believing in Bloom and what we are trying to do.

3. New Website www.bloommagazine.co.uk Or you can read a version of the magazine online via our brand spanking new website! Yes in another bombshell of news we have now launched a fantastic new user friendly website which will contain each edition and will grow over time. We hope you like it. We’re very excited by it and we thank brandingbay.com for all their hard work in helping us put it together. We don’t want you to feel abandoned in the intervening months of receiving Bloom because you have been a tremendous support from day one, so we have provided you not only with our wonderful stockists to enable you to collect the magazine on your travels but also the shiny new and unique platform that is our website to read the latest bits and bobs in the comfort of your home, from your mobile or on your tablet.

Stockists of Bloom

Baja cantina • Belmont Tower • Bennetts • Cafe Smart • Chatters Connswater Shopping Centre • Cream the Coffee Shop • Davidson Newsagents • East Belfast Partnership • Eat etc • Foodie Folk • Greens • Ground Coffee Knock Road • Hillmount Garden Centre • Lily’s Bistro • Mookie World • No 36 • The Secret Garden • SD Bells • THE Silver leaf • Skainos • storm in a tea cup • Sydenham Post Office/Margarets • Tesco Castlereagh Rd • Tesco Knocknagoney • The Wingrove.

Once again we thank you for making Bloom what it is today. Bloom Magazine Magazine City City East East Business Business Centre Centre 68-72 68-72 Newtownards Newtownards Road Road BT4 BT4 1GW 1GW info@bloommagazine.co.uk info@bloommagazine.co.uk Bloom bloommagazine.co.uk 5

Bloom:News Cregagh Community Association and Cregagh Primary School in conjunction with Cregagh Community Centre are having a family orientated winter festival aimed at 3,4 and 5 year olds and their parents/guardians on Saturday 7 December 10am.- 12pm, to celebrate all that the Cregagh community has to offer. Families attending the event will receive a free pack containing important information for registering your child for pre-school and P1, application forms will also be included and details about activities and groups taking place in the community centre. Free Activities will take place in the Primary school and Community centre on the day which will include; Bouncy Castle, Magician, African Drumming, Arts & Crafts, Dance Demos, Ju Jitsu Demos, Football Coaching & Penalty Shoot Out, Christmas Card Making, Free Refreshments and a Free visit to Santa.

who wants a letter from Santa? Whether that person is a new born baby, toddler, child, or even a big kid - Action Cancer’s Santa Letters are a great way to bring a smile to someone’s face this Christmas and support the charity. All they ask for is a kind donation of £5 to Action Cancer. All funds raised will support Action Cancer’s counselling support service for children and young people who either have cancer themselves, or whose parent or siblings have cancer. This is a specialist service where each child or young person receives emotional support in a variety of ways including play and art therapy Deadline for receipt of all postal and internet orders is Friday 13th December 2013. actioncancer.org

fabulous feminne finery on your doorstep Feminine Finery is a locally owned and operated Ladies Formal Wear hire business, based in Dundonald. Owner Nessa Huddleston has been accumulating stock for the past 18 months, and is looking forward to a very bright future ahead. Nessa has decided to start out small, working from home to save on costs. By doing this, Nessa is able to pass the savings on to her customers, meaning you will be hard pressed to find better value anywhere else. Cocktail dresses from as low as £25, ranging up to £50 for ballgowns. Feminine Finery specialises in evening and formal wear, but can also offer a selection of dresses for bridesmaids. With sizes ranging from 8 to 18, the selection on offer is fantastic, you will be spoilt for choice! Nessa can offer a great selection of accessories, bags and jewellery plus simple alterations to ensure a good fit from the dresses. Nessa comes from a fashion family; she is part of the “Suitor Men’s Wear” family, and her brother owns Law Suit, a men’s clothing shop in Belfast. Check the new Feminine Finery website www.femininefineryformaldresshire.co.uk or contact Nessa on 028 9048 1171. 6 bloommagazine.co.uk

Bloom:News open meeting on suicide

The boys and girls from Harland Youth FC, based in East Belfast, have proudly unveiled their new kit, sponsored by local business, Ritchie’s Fish & Chips. The new partnership established with Ritchie’s Fish & Chips, Castlereagh Road, is a further boost to Harland Youth FC, who recently picked up the prestigious Belfast Clubmark Accreditation (allocated by Belfast City Council). The Clubmark recognises the work of Harland Youth FC in contributing to sports development across East Belfast. Pictured: Sporting their new kit are the boys and girls with Ritchie’s owner Peter Foster and Harland Youth Chairman William Sale.

EBCDA are hosting an open meeting on the issue of suicide in East Belfast at Skainos, Newtownards Road on Thursday 12 December from 9.30am – 11.30am. This follows on from the 3 open meetings which were held at Belmont Tower in 2012 and early 2013. Anyone with an interest in the issue of suicide is welcome to attend to hear an update on some of the work currently taking place and to voice their views or concerns. If you wish to attend please register with Jean at EBCDA on 028 9045 1512 or jean@ebcda.org.

mens group meet up Gilnahirk Mens Group - For men of all ages meets in Jack Britton Hall at Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church every Wednesday morning from 10:30am – 12:00 noon (October – April) for Tea, coffee and chat. Plus, there’s always an interesting speaker.

KENNETH MICHAEL SCOOP MORE AWARDS!

engine room gallery

At the recent Northern Ireland Hair & Make-up Champion-

The Christmas Exhibition 2013 has

ships in the Hilton Hotel, leading Belfast Salon Kenneth Michael

launched and you can see a preview on

International Hair & Beauty added two more awards to their

Thursday 5th December from 7pm

already impressive list of accolades.Trainee Nicola Blackstock

–9.30pm. The Exhibition then continues

won the Mannequin Head Trophy and the salon was unani-

until Saturday 21 December. Opening

mously awarded the unique Denman 75th Anniversary Award

Hours for the event are:

by an impressive panel of judges including those from the

Tuesday – Saturdays 10am – 4pm

World Hairdressing Organisation (OMC) and representatives from Denman International, proud to be a very successful

The Engine Room Gallery

Northern Ireland Company celebrating their 75th Anniversary

414 Newtownards Road

with worldwide export sales. The winning entry was presented

Belfast

at the Championships by senior stylist at Kenneth Michael

BT4 1HH

International Hair & Beauty, Rachael Smyth.

02890 455184

For appointments telephone 02890 455740

engineroomgallerybelfast@btconnect.com

8 bloommagazine.co.uk

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Bloom:News dundela photo lab & pharmacy treasure memories forever Don’t let Christmas pass by without your memories being captured forever. But most people are now taking photographs on digital cameras or mobile phones; printing photographs and creating albums is becoming less and less common. What happens if you lose your mobile, or your memory card becomes corrupted? If you haven’t backed up your images to CD or external hard drive, your precious pictures are lost forever. At Dundela Photo Lab, on-site at Dundela Pharmacy, they say “To keep it, print it!” Dundela Photo Lab’s state of the art equipment (using a “wet chemical” process) produces proper photographs that will never fade (with 400dpi giving 40% more detail than you’ll get with the best ink-jet). To capture your treasured memories forever, it’s time to pay a visit to Dundela Photo Lab at Dundela Pharmacy. Prices are as low as 10p each for 6”x4” prints on the standard 24hour service, although print sizes go up to 18”x12” and 1hour & 4hour services are also available. They even produce large format art canvas and poster prints. As well as having full digital capability, and supplying a complete range of batteries, memory cards, films, cameras and accessories, Dundela Photo Lab still process and print traditional film. They are also specialists in providing passport and visa photos to suit all worldwide requirements. The friendly and experienced staff at Dundela are always on hand to give expert advice and to answer all your photographic questions. To find out more, call in to the Belmont Road premises today. And don’t forget Dundela Pharmacy’s huge range of fine fragrances – Chanel, Issey Miyake, Hugo Boss, Narciso Rodriguez, and Jimmy Choo to name but a few. Perfect if you’re thinking of treating yourself or a loved one this Christmas.You’ll find the prices very competitive compared to the big stores in town. Dundela Pharmacy & Photo Lab are at 17-19 Belmont Road – call in to find out more about their fantastic range of products and services. 17-19 Belmont Road . Photo Lab Tel: 9047 2845. Pharmacy Tel: 028 9065 7853 10 bloommagazine.co.uk

Peter Oliver Hairdressing have revealed a brand new member to the salon at Ballyhackamore. “We are pleased to welcome David Jenkins to our team at Peter Oliver Hairdressing,” says Peter. “David is Tony and Guy trained and has proved to be an exceptionally talented hairdresser, and we will benefit greatly with the wealth of experience that he brings with him. We look forward to welcoming his existing clients to our beautiful salon and invite everyone else to book an appointment with David, you will not be disappointed. Look good for Christmas.” 223 Upper Newtownards Road. Tel: 028 9067 1058. Campbell College Junior School celebrated the start of the half term holidays by hosting their Annual Pumpkin Party Event. Upon arrival the boys placed their carefully carved pumpkins within the vast school grounds providing a clearly lit path for our guests. Kindergarten boys and girls, Prep 1 and 2 were thrilled when they saw their classrooms transformed for a party filled with mystery and excitement. Prep 3-7 were captivated by an interactive magic show that demonstrated weird and wonderful ways to explore science. To end the evening staff and families ventured outside to witness the magnificent fireworks display. Boys and parents alike watched in amazement as each firework created its own vision of colour. They are already counting down the days until they get do it all over again next year!

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Bloom:News

The Art of Pizza making at Greens Ballyhackamore The first thing you notice when you enter Greens Pizza Restaurant at Ballyhackamore is the colourful range of paintings of Penguin Books covers filling the walls. Art plays a big part in the lives of Greens owners Manus McConn and William Clark who also own Greens Pizzeria on the Lisburn Road and Conor Café on the Stranmillis Road. The paintings are the work of their close friend, celebrated Belfastbased artist Neil Shawcross and they add a lot to the atmosphere of this bustling restaurant. But, as well as the artwork, it is the delicious pizza, pasta and famous Dragon’s Tongue Bread that has drawn the crowds to Greens since it opened in Ballyhackamore in February. The new restaurant created 25 jobs and the partners are delighted that the people of East Belfast and beyond have embraced their establishment. Mr McConn added: “Both William and I are passionate about art and pizza and we want our customers to enjoy their food in a space that is colourful, stimulating and adds to the whole experience.” Greens Pizza opens every day from 12noon to 10.30pm. A selection of wines, beers and cocktails are available to enjoy with the fine food. The new Pizzeria is located at 283-285 Upper Newtownards Road, BT4 3JH. For more information visit www.greenspizza.com

Belfast public to choose New Christmas Ice Cream Flavour Morelli’s Ice Cream Parlour on Belfast’s Belmont Road have been asking the people of the City to concoct and name their very own Christmas-inspired ice cream flavour. The winning flavour will then be put into production at the Morelli ice cream factory and sold exclusively at the Belmont Road franchise in the countdown to Christmas. Morelli’s Award winning ice cream is based in Coleraine and the Morelli family has run ice cream parlours on the beautiful North Coast for over a hundred years. The company produces over fifty flavours of award winning ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt and supplies retailers and franchisees across Ireland. The winner of the competition will be announced on Saturday 7th December and the winning ice cream flavour will also be sold from that date. The competition winner will not only get to have the first taste of their Christmas creation, they will also serve the first scoop! Keep an eye out on the Belmont Road, Belfast Facebook page or via twitter @belmontroadbelf 12 bloommagazine.co.uk

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s M aG I C al! Go back in time at Titanic Belfast and experience a traditional Christmas come to life. Father Christmas will be here with us from 28th November to 23rd Decemberâ&#x20AC;Ś come and see if you are on the naughty or nice list! For bookings visit

titanicbelfast.com Key supporting partner

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Bloom:News

East Belfast success stories scoops royal award Young people from East Belfast, who have turned their lives around with help from youth charity The Prince’s Trust, have won prestigious royal awards. This year was the tenth anniversary of The Trust’s annual awards, which have recognised the achievements of young people in Northern Ireland for the last decade. Matthew Drysdale, 26, scooped the top position in the Ulster Bank Enterprise Award at The Prince’s Trust & Samsung Celebrate Success Awards held at The MAC in Belfast on Friday 15th November while East Belfast 17 Team were runners-up in Moy Park Community Impact Award and Natasha Irvine was runner – up in HSBC Breakthrough Award. Pictured (L-R) 1. Matthew Drysdale, 26 from East Belfast picks up his Ulster Bank Young Enterprise Award at The Prince’s Trust and Samsung Celebrate Success Awards. He is pictured here with Stephen Cruise, Head of Branch Banking, Private and Financial Planning NI with Ulster Bank. 2. Members of East Belfast Team 17 were runners up for the Moy Park Community Impact Award at The Prince’s Trust and Samsung Celebrate Success Awards. East Belfast Team 17 are pictured here with Brian Moreland (second left), Corporate Responsibility Manager with award sponsors Moy Park and Kirst McMurray, Downtown Radio. 3. Natasha Irvine, 19 from East Belfast was runner up for the HSBC Breakthrough Award at The Prince’s Trust and Samsung Celebrate Success Awards. Natasha is pictured here with Ollie Govett award sponsors HSBC and Pete Snodden, CoolFM. princes-trust.org.uk @PrincesTrust facebook.com/princestrust The Computer Club is a Children’s Computer Training & Business Academy, and have a number of After School & Holiday Clubs running throughout the year. This term in one of the new schools the theme is ‘Create your own Business’ and the children (age 4-11 years) are working every week on topics involved in setting up a business. At the end of the term they will have a PowerPoint Presentation of their work which will be presented in a show to their parents and teachers. Microsoft have agreed to attend the show as they are using Microsoft products. Young Enterprise are also attending as they are very keen to see children this young present their business skills. It takes place at St Mary’s Primary School, Saintfield on Thursday 12th December from 3-4pm. For further info contact Michelle Owens Gregory at The Computer Club on 0771 204 2222 or visit thecomputerclub.co.uk 14 bloommagazine.co.uk

@ Ballyhackamore

Smile... we’re now open for Lunch from noon daily! Lunch offer:

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T S U J

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028 9065 0600 www.greenspizza.com

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LOCAL GOODNESS tried & tested

LOCAL BUSINESS Number 36 36 Belmont Rd. 028 9065 7476. ON YOUR rooms dips. We moved on then to DOORSTEP... a classic chicken burger in seasoned Tried & Tested - By Us Angela & Juanita: “With the Launch of No 36 new menu, Ian kindly invited us along to sample

Bloo Loves.m ..

flour with the most gorgeous red onion chutney and relish. Succulent and juicy with a nice tang from the chutney. We also had one of Ian’s signature sides - chunky chips with chilli

some of the new dishes. Inside has

and sour cream. Angela’s main was

had a super-stylish revamp and we sat down to make our choices from

the pulled pork from the meat sand- cheesecake and a fine Americano. A wich section. Melt in the mouth pork beautiful mid-week treat which lived garnished with crispy fresh leaves and up to the No 36 motto; Fresh, local homecooked nosh!” Served Thur/ dressed in the red onion chutney

the diverse line up. Starting with the sharing platter for two, we had southern fried chicken wings in BBQ sauce, battered onion rings, mush-

all held together in lovely warm ciabatta. Finally, the most heavenly

Peter oliver male grooming

Stuart: “I had my first facial when I got married. It was so good I promised I’d treat myself to more of the same on a regular basis. 5 years later, I haven’t had one since. So when Peter Oliver invited me along for a facial with Jo at the male grooming suite in Ballyhackamore, I was

265 Upper Newtownards Rd 028 9065 8452

horizontal on the table before you could say dry T zone! Firstly, Jo was amazing, it was my first visit but I already felt like a regular. She talked me through what the process would be and then she began using Comfort Zone active pureness gel to cleanse the face and an Active pureness scrub to help eliminate dead cells. An Active pureness green clay mask was applied which improves the

Angela & Warren: We featured Baja Cantina as our Food Focus so regular readers will know the history and the passion of the people behind it. This passion shines through in the service and the food. We opted for a Beef & Pork Chimichanga. The meat was melt in your mouth and was one of the tastiest things I’ve ever had! We also had rack of ribs. I’m not usually a fan of ribs because they are so messy and find there’s not much meat on them for all the hard work! These were in a different league. The meat just fell of the bone and again, delicious! We had a side dish of sweet potatoes fries which were new to me and will definitely be having again. Wonderfully authentic Mexican food and one of the nicest takeaways we had ever had! Baja Cantina is now on our regular list of take away treats.” 19 bloommagazine.co.uk

Fri/Sat from 5.30.pm Its BYO + kids menu available.

appearance of skin texture. Next, Recover touch massage cream which helps nourish the skin followed by age recover serum. It was an extraordinarily relaxing experience and the stress of publishing was discarded like a dead skin cell! Jo was superb and also gave me an after shave restoring hydrator which has certainly helped with the skins appearance. Looking forward to my return.”

baja cantina 228, Upper Newtownards Road. 028 9047 3339 bajacantina.co.uk

Photography © National Trust Images/NT Paul Canning.

Freda’s Press & Mend 124a Castlereagh Road BT5 5FS Is your ironing piling up? Not enough hours in the day?

festive crafts Christmas Craft Fair

IRONING SERVICES SPECIAL OFFER!

30 items £18 Large items priced seperately

We also do garment alterations, repairs, laundry & dry cleaning

Belmont Tower, Belfast 7 December 10am-2pm

Get into the festive spirit with our annual Christmas Craft Fair set in a stunning landmark building in East Belfast. Celebrate the arrival of Christmas and join us for a festive filled morning with lots of home-made goodies, crafts and tasty treats whilst listening to Bel-Canto school of singing perform Christmas carols. There is no admission charge for this event.

Rekindle the magic #NTChristmas | 028 9065 3338 | Email belmonttower@nationaltrust.org.uk The National Trust is a registered charity, no. 205846.

Call in & see

Freda!

TEL 028 9045 5858 / MOB 077 8953 4849

Thank you to all our customers for their support & we wish you all a Happy Christmas & A Prosperous New Year!

Follow & Like Us: Siren Boutique

Free On Street Parking 72 Bloomfield Avenue Belfast BT5 5AE Tel 028 9046 6555

www.sirenboutique.co.uk

fabulous festive fancies

cookie tree decorations These delicious festive cookies are decorated with colorful icing and then strung with decorative ribbons to create edible tree decorations. The red, green, and white icing is applied neatly around the edges of the cookies, as well as in different patterns across the surface. This recipe will make approximately 18 cookies.

*Materials

6 tablespoons (75g) unsalted butter 115g superfine (caster) sugar 1 extra large (large) egg 200g all-purpose (plain) flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt Tubes of ready-made colored icing Plastic wrap (clingfilm) Rolling pin Cookie cutters in different shapes Plastic drinking straw Baking sheet Wire rack Wax (greaseproof) paper 20cm ribbon/braid per cookie

ate Decorta rs, s h it w , dots stripesatever or wh like! you

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C/gas 4. Cream the butter and sugar until soft, and then beat in the egg. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Roll the dough into a ball, wrap in clingfilm, and put in the refrigerator for about an hour.

2. Roll out the cookie mixture to a thickness of approximately 1cm and use the cookie cutters to cut out the different shapes. Cut down the plastic drinking straw to a length of about 10cm using scissors and pierce the top of each cookiewith it to make a hole for the ribbon.

Images copyright of Cico Books. Recipe taken from the book; Christmas Crafts by Catherine Woram, photography by Caroline Arber, published by CICO Books. £14.99, paperback, and available from all good bookshops or call 01256-302699 quoting GLR8UE to purchase a copy at the special price of £10.99 including free p&p. Visit www.cicobooks.co.uk 20 bloommagazine.co.uk

3. Bake the cookies on a baking sheet lined with wax (greaseproof) paper for about 8–10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the cookies from the oven and place them on a wire rack. Use the plastic drinking straw to repierce the holes if they have closed up during cooking. Leave the cookies to cool. Decorate each cookie with icing as desired. Cut pieces of ribbon and ric rac braid, approximately 8in (20cm) long, and thread them through the holes in each cookie. Tie in a knot and trim the ribbon ends diagonally using scissors to stop them fraying.

ÂŠ Cico Books

bloommagazine.co.uk 21

HO*HO*HO

Christmas Gift Guide Struggling to find something for the special peeps in your life. Try these, they’re right on your doorstep...

Cafe Smart Cast Iron Teapots £29.95 (available in different colours). 56 Belmont Road. 028 9047 1679. cafesmart.co.uk

Jason Shankey The Limited Edition ‘Perfect Shave’ comprises Jason Shankey’s three shaving products and his expert guide to shaving, all packaged together in a gorgeous, masculine box. £48. 358 Upper Newtownards Road. 028 9065 8001. jasonshankey.com

Silhouette

Lua acccessories start from £19. 75 Belmont Road. 028 9002 8742. silhouettefashionbelfast.co.uk

Watchman Anywhere The Watchman Anywhere remote oil level monitoring kit, produced by Kingspan Environmental, will make sure you never run out of oil again. The monitoring device, which is simply attached to the top of an oil tank, alerts you when the tank needs re-filled by ultrasound techniques. Monitor your oil level anytime, anywhere with the free app, available on iPhone or Android devices. Get your Watchman Anywhere today. £130 RRP but we have a special 15% discount for Bloom readers! Just enter the code Bloom01 at www.watchmananywhere.com 22 bloommagazine.co.uk

Desert Silver Gorgeous cashmere scarves and wraps from local online business Desert Silver. Check out their website for an extensive range of 100% cashmere and unique jewellery sourced in Oman. Prices start at £40. www.desertsilver.co.uk.

ReFound

l Loca n g i s e d Charm bracelet by SteamPunk. £12. Plant stand by Nuala Maguire. £69. Available from ReFound. 1st Floor, 7 Wellington Place. 07811 342444 refoundonline.com

McCallum’s Butchers

Christmas

Specials

Traditional Family Butchers

1. 10lb Fresh Farm Turkey 3lb Gammon Joint 1lb Cocktail Sausages 1lb Streaky Bacon 1lb Homemade Stuffing

13lb Fresh Farm Turkey 3lb Gammon Joint 3 Medium Sirloin Steaks 1lb Cocktail Sausages 1lb Streaky Bacon 2lb Homemade Stuffing

ONLY £39.99

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*** Fresh turkeys from £2.75 per lb! *** 326 BEERSBRIDGE ROAD TEL: 028 9045 7140 & 351 WOODSTOCK ROAD TEL: 028 9022 6211

Dundela Pharmacy FOR ALL YOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY NEEDS

17-19 Belmont Road Belfast BT4 2AA Telephone: 028 9065 7853

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-5pm www.dundela.co.uk

le Samp u Men •STARTERS Deep Fried Brie Wedge £3.00 Berry compote, comes with rocket salad Dough Balls, Cheese & Garlic £1.80 Pizza Garlic Bread with Cheese & Red Onion - 7” £2.30 10” £2.80 •MAINS Chicken Marsalla £6.00 Breast of chicken fillet, roasted baby new potatoes, mushrooms and Marsalla sauce. Pollo alla Gorgonzola £6.00 Chargrilled chicken, baby new potato and creamy Gorgonzola (blue cheese) sauce Chicken Saltimbocca £6.50 Roasted chicken wrapped with bacon and cream cheese. Served with porcini mushroom sauce and roasted new potatoes •MAMA MIA SPECIALS Breast of Chicken Fillet with Green & Black Peppercorn £6.00 With demi glaze cream or have with porcini mushroom sauce Steak Sandwich £6.00 Strip of peppered beef in a creamy pepper sauce, onions, mushrooms, chips and salad or have with porcini mushroom sauce Pan Fried Sea Bass £9.50 Roasted baby new potatoes, garlic butter and parsley sauce Roasted Glenarm Salmon £9.00 Sauted potatoes, lemon cream sauce or gorgonzola blue cheese sauce

•ITALIAN RISOTTO RICE Risotto Asparagi £5.50 Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, aged parmesan, white wine, cracked black pepper corns. Risotto di Mare £6.50 Portavogie prawns, Dundrum mussels, garden peas, white wine and cracked pepper corns. Chef’s Special Risotto £6.50 Beef steak strips with tomato sauce, red bell peppers, fresh chillis, mushrooms and red onions •PASTA DISHES Spaghetti Carbonara £4.20 Creamy Parmesan sauce with bacon and touch of cracked black pepper Mamma Mia’s Fussili Special £4.20 Chicken, mushrooms, peppers, white wine cream sauce & aged parmesan cheese Spagethi di Mare £5.50 Portavogie prawns, Dundrum mussels with white wine cream or spicy tomato sauce Lasagna al Forno £5.50 Baked pasta layered with Bolognese, béchamel sauce, tomato, basil leaves, Parmesan, served with chips & salad •STONE BAKED PIZZA 10”/12” Gamberoni Picante £4.80/£5.80 Portavogie prawns, fresh chillis, rocket Padana £5.00/£6.00 Goats cheese, red bell peppers, red onion, spinach Sloppy Mama Mia £5.10 /£6.10 Chicken, polpette beef meat balls, ham

•MAMMA MIA’S KEBABS With salad & choice of sauce: Chicken Tikka Kebab From £3.80 Chicken Pakora Kebab From £3.80 Mamma Mia’s Special Mix Kebab From £4.70 Chicken, chicken tikka, doner meat, steak, pakora, goujons •WRAPS Chicken Fajita Wrap £5.00 With onion, peppers, tomato salsa and sour cream Chicken Caesar Wrap £5.00 Bacon, cos lettuce and Caesar dressing. Cajun Chicken Wrap £5.00 With onion, peppers, Cajun chicken, sweet chilli or Cajun sauce •BURGERS Mexican Hot 1/4lb From £2.50 Jalepenos, salsa, sour cream Piri Piri Fillet Burger £2.90 Piri Piri mayo, lettuce, bacon House Special Fillet Burger £2.90 Chicken fillet, pepperoni and sweet chilli dressing •SIDE ORDERS Small Chips £1 Onion Rings £1 Cheesy Garlic Ciabatta (x6) £1.85 Garlic Ciabatta Supreme £2.50 •KIDS MENU AVAILABLE

COLLECTION & DELIVERY

028 9543 6046

8 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3El Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs 3pm-11.30pm / Fri-Sat 3pm-12.30am WE ARE ONLY USING FRESH INGREDIENTS

Road

the perfect complement to any outfit casual or smart.

Award winning designer handbag collection, Abro, is the perfect complement to any outfit casual or smart.

Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7GX. T: 028 9068 7050

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WINTER SALE NOW ON! PLUS New spring stock just arrived in Peel & Marc Cain. find us on Facebook

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Health & Beauty

30 Belmont Road • 028 9067 1914 • secretdayspa.co.uk

How many xmas shopping days left? We would tell you but we don’t want to scare you! Don’t worry: we’re here to help by taking the pain and effort out of your seasonal shopping. We have a number of great gift ideas available starting from £15...

WHITE TO BROWN SELF TAN £15. INSTANT TAN £20

DERMALOGICA STRESS RELIEF CANDLES £17.50

Refresh & Re-juvenate your skin with this rich smooth cream which gives the whole body a deep, long lasting tan that develops in hours and lasts for days.

Feel wick - or at least the power of the wick from these mellow chillers.

VITA LIBERATE SELF TAN £22.50 This Award winning tan is available in various shades so that everyone can have the perfect tan. Vita Liberata Range is Organic, Streak Free and Odourless

DERMALOGICA SOOTHING SHAVE CREAM £19.40 Treat your man this Christmas something from Dermalogica’s SHAVE range. Soothing Shave Cream helps to calm down the skin to get a super close shave, which won’t leave skin feeling sore.

HE-SHE SELF TAN £20 Receive a free quick and easy Souffle Moisturiser which will hydrate and smooth the skin with its essential Moisture Lock Technology, for him or for her.

EXTRA CREAM- HYDRATING NOURISHING FACE CREAM [COMFORT ZONE] GIFT SET £70 This Gift set includes Everyday Milk, Eye Supreme Extra Cream and Hydra memory Extra Cream 24hr

DERMALOGICA SKIN SETS FROM £25 Available in Dry, Normal/Dry, Normal/Oily, Oily

Gift Vouchers available in store online or by phone

[COMFORT ZONE] NIGHT & DAY FACE KIT £60

This nourishing and hydrating face kit includes, Renight Recover CreamAntioxident night nourishment cream and Hydramemory

All products available to buy : www.shop.thesecretdayspa.co.uk + free p&p 2 6 bloommagazine.co.uk

Christmas at Silhouette Unique Gifts • Scarves Handbags • Jewellery Seasalt Accessories • Gift Vouchers

75 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AA Tel 028 9065 2428 www.sihouettefashionbelfast.com

bistro

este

BYO!

Now open from 1pm on Sundays.

Tuesdays 5pm-9pm Wed-Sat 12pm-3pm & 6pm-9.30pm 221 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3JD TEL: 028 9065 6976 for reservations

Bistro Este

We will discount your letting fee if you let us manage your property! RENTAL DIVISION When LETTING with UPS you get: •No registration fee •Up to 10 property websites •Professional referencing When MANAGED by UPS you get: •Rent guarantee scheme •Photographic inventories •Periodic inspections •Tenant deposit registration

£250 OFF OUR

LETTING SERVICE*

for all managed** homes registered before the end of January 2014

(normally 1st Months Rent + vat)

Call our dedicated Rental Division now for a FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION on 028 9047 1515 Option 2

THE RENTAL DIVISION TELEPHONE: 028 9047 1515 Award Winning Local Estate Agency BEST LETTINGS AGENCY 2010 & 2011^ ^The UK Property Awards 2011 in association with Bloomberg Television. *Letting services includes photographs, photo rental list,To Let board, professional referencing, all required legal documents.). **Managed homes will incur a 10% + vat monthly charge deducted from the rent received.

www.ulsterpropertysales.co.uk

BALLYHACKAMOREBRANCH BALLYHACKAMOREBRANCH

TEL: 028 9047 1515 TEL: 028 9047 1515

For homes registered by end of January 2014 in BT4, BT5 & BT16 For homes registered by end of January 2014 in BT4, BT5 & BT16

www. u l s terpropertysal e s. c o. u k TEL: 028 9047 1515 www.ulsterpropertysales.co.uk

BALLYHACKAMORE BRANCH BALLYHACKAMORE BRANCH

TEL: 028 9047 1515

www.ulsterpropertysales.co.uk www.ulsterpropertysales.co.uk Marketing package includes photographs, brochures, for sale board and online advertising until property is sold. Normally ÂŁ195 + VAT.

Shhhhh...

BALLYHACKAMORE LIBRARY REOPENS! After seven weeks closure for redecoration, Ballyhackamore library is open! At the heart of Ballyhackamore village the library offers free membership for all age groups and a wide range of activities from Bedtime stories to Got It? computer sessions. The library has been here for 21 years now and has become a tremendous focus for the local community. Previously it had been located up at the Knock lights close to SD Bells and then at the current site in a mobile before the new building took shape. It’s a thriving and very busy branch which is well used by the community and local business with meeting rooms available for hire. Branch Manager Maureen King shares the news on whats in store when you visit. “Our regulars were very pleased to see the library back and inside there are some fantastic transformations. New flooring has been installed.The wooden tongue and groove ceiling (which previously led to people calling it an upside down boat!) has been painted white which has made a huge difference to the light in the space.The end wall of brick has been plastered and painted a neutral colour and we will be showcasing art there which will be a lovely feature.We have rearranged the shelving and stock to create a more user friendly layout. All the classes and events are back up and running. It’s a free service here and we would like to welcome both old and new visitors to see the new library and what we have to offer:” s what on?

What’s Going On? Plan your tip to the libary this month and beyond...

Christmas Crafts and Stories Friday 13 December 3:30pm Booking essential Christmas Coffee Morning Friday 13 December 10-12 Leave the Christmas rush aside for a while and enjoy a well-earned treat of coffee, mince pie and Christmas songs from a local nursery class Bedtime Stories Monday 7pm Chill Out Family Friday Story time Friday 3:30pm Rhythm and Rhyme Thursday, 1st and 3rd of each month 11:15am Songs, rhymes, lots of fun for babies & toddlers Books R Us Children’s reading group for 9-11 year olds meets 3rd Monday of each month September-June 3:30-4:30. Places limited, contact library to books yours. Knit and Natter Do you enjoy knitting, crochet, cross stitch and other crafts or would like have a go? Come along on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month 2-4pm and meet the Ballyhackamore Knit & Natter group. Refreshments provided Admission Free 30 bloommagazine.co.uk

Ballyhack Book Pack 1st Thursday of each month 7pm Adult reading group Refreshments provided Me Time Last Monday of each month 7pm Reading group for busy mums and working women. Refreshments provided Relax and Read Friday 10-12 Take some time out, help yourself to free tea or coffee while you relax and read newspapers, magazines, or try a crossword or Sudoku. Got IT? Computer training for beginners. Contact library for further details and to book your place. Starting January 2014 Game On – Thursday 6-8pm Chess, bridge, jigsaws and board games etc. Adult and teenage event Refreshments provided

1-3 Eastleigh Drive Belfast BT4 3DX 028 9050 9204

HS Studio HAIR & BEAUTY

Offering beauty, waxing, nails and tanning along with a comprehensive selection of treatments and products including Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oreal, Organic Colouring, Fantasy Tan and Laurenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Way.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my clients for their support and wish them a very Merry Christmas a Happy & Prosperous New Year! 71 Belmont Road BT4 2AA Tel: 028 9065 1333

east belfast heritage

The chronicles of east belfast continue... Aidan Campbell’s historical exploration of East Belfast continues unabated as he unveils his 8th and 9th titles; Belmont & Sydenham. Aidan has been a volunteer at Marie Curie Cancer Care for 13 years and to date book sales have raised over £100,000 for the charity. We caught up with Aidan to get the rundown on what’s in the new books and get an understanding of the meticulous work he puts into every single page.

Victoria Park Belfast fountain 1952

• Sydenham Aidan Campbell’s 8th local history book covering the development East Belfast is ‘Sydenham’. The journey traverses the Holywood Road which begins at Holywood Arches, passes the Strand cinema, Gelston’s Corner, Park Avenue Hotel, St Mark’s Church, Ashfield, Inverary, Marmont and finishes at Knocknagoney. There are also detours examining the development of the Connsbrook Avenue area,Victoria Park and the Sydenham Bypass. The journey looks at the lives of people who were connected with the area plus churches, schools, houses, roads, businesses, shops, sports clubs and social organisations. 32 bloommagazine.co.uk

Sydenham School 1954

The name Sydenham only came into use in the 1850s and unlike other areas of East Belfast such as Ballymacarrett, Knock and Cregagh (which are all townlands) the name does not relate to a physical geographical feature or historical background. A townland was the smallest geographical division of land in Ireland dating back hundred’s of years. There are approximately 9,000 townlands in NI. By 1972 the Post Office decided townlands were to be regarded as ‘superflous information’ in a postal address. The name of the fashionable London suburb of ‘Sydenham’ was chosen by James Entwhistle, who lived at a house called ‘Aspenville’ on Holywood Road near Sydenham Avenue.

He was a builder and developed much of Sydenham as a residential area. It had become fashionable in Belfast during the Victorian period to adopt the names of rather grand British locations such as Balmoral, Kensington, Sandown and Wandsworth because they conferred a sense of grandeur to a neighbourhood. In 1858 the wealthy tobacco merchant Thomas McClure purchased the townlands of Strandtown and Ballymaghan from the Earl Ranfurley. He is credited with the improvement and development of much of the area, including the road network. He later became the proprietor of the townland of Ballycloughan and Belmont House, which is now the site of Campbell College.

written and compiled by Aidan Campbell

Bathgate Drive 1908

Glenmachan 1863

• belmont ‘Belmont’ is Aidan’s 9th local history book on East Belfast. The narrative of ‘Belmont’ takes the form of a journey along Belmont Road from Gelston’s Corner, past Clonallon Gardens, Belmont Presbyterian Church, Circular Road, Ormiston, Campbell College to Massey Avenue and the back gates of Stormont Parliament Buildings. There are detours taking in Glenmachan, the Old Holywood Road and Redburn. The area around Gelston’s Corner might be more properly known by its original name of ‘Strandtown’ which is the old townland name for the area that has become known for various businesses and retail premises. Whilst the Sydenham area around Connsbrook Avenue may be characterised by many small streets containing long rows of

written and compiled by Aidan Campbell

An illustrated and spoken history of Sydenham, Holywood Road and Victoria Park.

An illustrated and spoken history of Belmont, Strandtown and Old Holywood Road.

Belmont Presbyterian Church 1862

terraced housing which were often the homes of people who worked in the industrial factories of Belfast including the shipyard, ropeworks, linen mills and engineering works, the Belmont area on the higher ground contained the estates and demesne’s of wealthy business owners. The wealthy people of Belfast owned numerous properties in the centre of town during the 19th century but as the population of the city grew they moved out helped by the development of transport infrastructure such as railways and tramways. The gentrification of Belfast’s rural fringe had its beginnings in the mideighteenth century when the well drained lands of the County Down side of the Lagan Valley influenced the siting of large houses or mansions with tree-lined demesnes. Developers sensibly avoided low-

lying land which might be subject to flooding. Many of these estates were funded from the profits of banking, whiskey distilling, cotton and linen manufacture, shipbuilding and ancillary industries which generated business for foundries, engineering works and rope manufactories.

The books retail at £10 each and are available from Hillmount Garden Centre, Gilnahirk and Marie Curie Hospice. previous titles include Beaconsfield, Knock, Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk, Castlereagh, Cregagh and Stormont

bloommagazine.co.uk 33

A&M

Motors Car Mechanical & Bodywork

HIGH BAKE OVEN • CLUTCHES • BRAKES/EXHAUSTS • SERVICING

HASSLE FREE M.O.T. Cars collected and delivered to and from your home or work.

2a Isoline St Castlereagh Rd BT5 5GF Tel: 028 9045 4201

LINDORES OPEN MUSIC SESSION

First Monday of the month 7.30pm - 10pm

OPENING TIMES

Monday - Saturday 9am - 4.30pm FROM 8th DECEMBER OPEN SUNDAYS 10am-1pm

Tel: 028 9065 0338 19 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3HT WENDY ’S BEAUT ICIA OPEN U N NOW PSTAIR S! C all 077 8 For En 4 634328 quiries

Sewing ROOM

The

MVALE A E R T S FARM S STMAS TORY RID I R E CH 1ST - 23rd December

YOUR COMPLETE SEWING SERVICE

A magical tour for all the family!

ALL GARMENT ALTERATIONS

• Bespoke Curtains • Soft Furnishings • Roman Blinds • Bridal Alterations

Open

Mon, Wed Fri: 9-6 Tues & Thurs: 9-7 Sat: 9-5

Group rates available BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Untitled-3 1

www.streamvale.com 028 9048 3244

17/10/2012 09:36

Unit 16, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald Rd

Tel: 9048 9642 or Mob 077 0615 6331

Mountpottinger M C Methodist Church Showing God’s Grace & Sharing His Love in the Heart of East Belfast

• Coming Up In December at MMC! Sunday 1st December 11.00am 9th NI Girls Brigade Enrolment Service Sunday 8th December 11.00am Toy Service Sunday 15th December 11.00am The Christmas Story in words and music 6.00pm The Sunday School Carol Service Wednesday 18th December 7/9 pm Singing Carols for Christmas - Connswater Shopping Centre Sunday 22nd December 11.00am Visit of the President of the Methodist Church in Ireland Rev Dr Heather Morris Wednesday 25th December 9.00am Christmas Morning Celebration

Sat 7t h Dec Indoor Table S 9.30-1 ale 2 noon

188 Albertbridge Road Belfast Tel 028 9046 0347 mountpottingermc.org.uk

g Keepin sy! u B You

What’s On

Toddler Groups Mondays Sydenham Parent & Toddler

Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Tea/coffee/juice/toast. Inverary CC BT4 1RN Tel: 028 9047 1456

10-11.30 Cregagh Park, BT6 9LF 028 9079 2793.

Wandsworth Mums & Chums

10-11.45am Wandsworth CC 26a Belmont Church Rd BT4 3FF £1 per family. Calvary Mums & Toddlers.

10.30-12.00am. £1 per family. 100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331

Tuesdays Albertbridge Congregational 10.30-12.15 Woodstock Link Donation £1

CFC Mops & Tots

9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total for more.Tea, coffee, juice and snacks provided. 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £3.50 per mum including breakfast and creche provided. 10 Belmont Rd, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.com

Mersey Street Presb. Parents & Toddlers

Strandtown Baptist Tots 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult

Tots & Co Toddler Groups 10.15- 11.45am (term time)

St Finnians

CFC Mops

£1 for adults.Tea/coffee/juice

Cregagh Methodist Church £1.50 per family per morning (incl juice/ snack & tea/coffee/snack for the adults. 28-30 Cregagh Rd BT6 9EQ Tel: 028 9045 7564

Wednesdays Busy Bees

10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road, BT5 6JA Tel: 028 9065 3413

Luncheon Club

For senior citizens. Cregagh Methodist. 12 noon. £1.50. Pre bookm meals at the church office on 028 9045 7564.

Orangefield Baptist Church

Fridays Tots ‘R’ Us

10.30am House of Worship 127a Orby Drive, BT5 6BB Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506

St Columba’s Mums & Tots 9.45-11.45 (term time) St Columba’s Parish Church 29 Kings Road 028 9065 1412

Events Etc

MONDAYS Bean Blessed

Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church FREE tea/ coffee, scones & pastries. 10.30-12 Everyone welcome.

10-11.45am O’field Church & Community, 464 Castlereagh Road BT5 Tel: 07745 076911 www.orangefield.org.uk

Rainbows girls age 4-7 Monday 6pm, Brownies girls age 7-10 Monday 7pm Guides girls aged 10-14 Mondays 7pm. Contact Clare 07905 556825.

10-12pm W’stock Rd, BT6 8PR Tel: 028 9045 7654 office@willowfieldchurch.co.uk

Holywood Road, BT4 BJO Practice/Tai-Bo/7th Big Band Night.

smallTALK @ orangefield

Harding Memorial

Willowfield Mother & Toddler

Shorts Sports & Rec Club

Thursdays Bloomfield Methodist Church 10-11.30am £1 per family

10am-12 Bloomfield Avenue Tel: 028 9065 2321 www.stdonards.com

Parents & Toddlers. 10-11.30am Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation www.kirkpatrickmemorial.org

36 bloommagazine.co.uk

10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian 53 Kings Road, BT5 6JH Gillian 07803 117619. knockpresbyterian.co.uk

37 North Road, BT5 5NE Mothers & Toddlers 10.30-12

10-11.45am term time Mersey St Pres BT1 1EX Tel: 028 90 657025 aburcombe@gmail.com www.merseystreet.org.uk £1 donation

St Donards Church

Knock Parent & Toddler

Grand Parade 028 9065 8946.

Cregagh Mums & Tots 10-12pm Cregagh CC Mount Merrion Avenue Tel: 028 9040 1444

Kirkpatrick Memorial Presb

Skainos Building skainos.org

Crosslinks - Cross Community Arts 7-9pm 14-21 yr olds. Contact Andy Hill.

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 .nistars.com Singling & dancing 7-8pm

Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668 Zumba 6-7pm Aerobics 7-8pm Yoga 8.15-9.30pm

Tuesdays Belmont Tower

www.belmont-tower.co.uk

3rd January Wellington College Belfast Co-educational Grammar School

AL B YLSP7 GIRO LS & THEIAND R PA WELRCENTS OME

18 Carolan Road, Belfast, BT7 3HE Telephone : 028 9064 2539

OPEN EVENINGS

REDA

KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 2014

• Principal’s Address at 7pm and 8pm

An information evening for prospective 6th Form entrants will be held at 7.30pm

TRANSFER 2014

KNOCKBREDA

The college will be applying the AQE and GL Entrance Assessments IGH SCHOOL for pupils applying for entry to Year 8 in H September 2014.

OPEN EVENING

Entrance & car parking on Carolan Road www.wellingtoncollegebelfast.org

KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 2014

HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 2014

Thursday 9th January 2014 7-9pm Monday 13th January 2014 7-9pm

ursday 23rd January 2014 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm

Address by the Principal: Mrs Gordon at 7.00 pm

KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL

OPEN EVENING OPEN EVENING 028 9064 9302 028 9069 2007

Knockbreda High School Upper Knockbreda Road, Belfast, BT6 ONE

Thursday 23rd January 2014 • 7pm - 9pm ursday 23rd January 2014 Address by the Principal: Mrs Gordon at 7.00 pm 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm Address by the Principal, Mrs Gordon at 7pm info@knockbreda.belfast.ni.sch.uk

We look forward to meeting you! Knockbreda High School Upper Knockbreda Road Belfast BT6 ONE

Telephone: 028 9064 9302 028 9069 2007

info@knockbreda.belfast.ni.sch.uk

www.knockbredahighschool.org.uk

to MEETING YOU WE LOOK FORWARD

g Keepin sy! u You B

What’s On

Core fitness 9.30am-10.30am Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Zumba Classes 6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga 7.30-8.30pm

Shorts Sports & Rec Club Holywood Road, BT4 Line dancing & bridge club. 31st NYE.

Lily’s Bistro

223 Castlereagh Rd. 028 9045 4287 Curry & Quiz Night - First Tues of each month.

Wandsworth Community Kids Irish dancing 4-6.30pm, Aerobics 7.15-8.15pm Tai Chi 8.15-9.30pm

Wednesdays Girls Brigade

Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church Ages 3-7 yrs 6.15 pmAges 8 yrs upwards - 7.30 pm bloomfieldcong@gbni.co.uk All girls welcome.

Over 60’s Lunch Club

Bloomfield Methodist Church 12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade.Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book.

Shorts Sports & Rec Club

Holywood Road, BT4 Mixed dance lessons 7-9pm Zumba 6-6.45pm 4th Pensioners lunch.

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Drama 6-8pm www.nistars.com

Belmont Tower

www.belmont-tower.co.uk Baby massage 10am-1pm Yoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm 39th Old Boys 7-9pm

Newbridge Football Club

The club invite 5/6/7 year old boys and girl to play football.Training every Wednesday at Avoniel Leisure Centre 7-8pm. Everyone welcome.

Wandsworth Community Sewing Group 10am-12noon Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm,Yoga 7-8.30pm 38 bloommagazine.co.uk

Thursdays

£1 per person. Contact Tanita Robinson.

Belmont Tower

Busybees musictime for babies 9.45am10.45am £3.95 per family. Computers for beginners 10am-12 and 1-3pm, Childrens Ju Jitsu 7-8pm Fitness & Boxing Class 8.30-9.30pm

www.belmont-tower.co.uk Art classes 10am-1pm Baby Sensory Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6-8pm E Belfast Historical Society 12th Dec Members night & Journal launch.

Circuit Training Class

For men & women of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels.Thurs @ 6.30pm in Bloomfield Presbyterian. First class free! email: chris@davidsonfitness.co.uk

Shorts Sports & Rec Club Holywood Road, BT4 Mixed dance lesson & bridge club

Skainos Building skainos.org Vibe Academy - Weekly streetdance programme. p1-p4 3.30-4.30pm P5-P7 4.30-5.30pm 1st yr+ 6.45-8pm. £6 per class. Contact Lisa 07736 315420.

Wandsworth Community

Shiloh Hall

07712 299206, 76 The Mount, BT5 4ND Coffee Morning 10:30-12 Children welcome.

Saturdays Orangefield Baptist Church 37 North Road, BT5 5NE Searchlight Club p1-p7. 10.30-12.

Shorts Sports & Rec Club Holywood Road, BT4 Live Premiership Football 7th Country & Western / Karaoke & Food Night 12th Tag-It Fishing Club 19th Charity Show

028 9065 1668 LA Dance (kids Hip Hop) 5-6pm Aerobics 7-8pm. Core Combat 8.30-10pm

Strand Cinema & NI Stars

Fridays

028 9065 1668 Jump Jiggle & Jive 9.30-12.30, Childrens Art Class 10am-11am & Ignite teens dance 1.30-4.30pm

Albertbridge Congregational 6 Woodstock Link 028 9045 7434 Friday Friendship - Everyone is invited for a cuppa and a chat anytime between 10.30am - 12.30pm.

Holywood Road, BT4 Stage school 10-1pm www.nistars.com

Wandsworth Community

Sundays

Belmont Tower

SD Bells-Java Jive Jazz Brunch

Line Dancing

Shorts Sports & Rec Club

www.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Singing 10-1pm

516 Upp N’Ards Rd. 028 9047 1774 - 11am

Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church £3 per person.

Holywood Road, BT4 Super Sunday Lunch Special/Live football

Shorts Sports & Rec Club Holywood Road, BT4 2 hour Club Special 20th Country & Western Night

Skainos Building skainos.org

Fusion - Weekly programme of games, crafts, activities & fun for p1-p7’s. 6-8pm

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Singling & dancing 1.30-3.30pm www.nistars.com

stuart@ bloommagazine.co.uk

McArthur Nursery School Enrolment Open Day 2pm-4pm 11th December 2013

• Is your child born between 2nd July 2010 and 1st July 2011? • Pick up an application form from any Nursery / Voluntary / Private Playgroup • Complete an application form and return it to your 1st preference provider no later than 12 noon on 10th January 2014 McArthur Nursery School McArthur Nursery School

Principal Eithne Daly

Susan Street, Susan Street,Belfast Belfast Telephone 02890 90451965 451965 Telephone : 028

Girl Loves Vintage BLOG: www.girlovesvintage.tumblr.com TWITTER: @GirLovesVintage

Thrifty festive sparkle So, it’s December then (my didn’t that come upon us quickly) and that means lots of festive sparkle! From the twinkling lights and baubles on our Christmas trees to the wrapping on the gifts beneath, we love to balance the dark days of winter with a little glitter and gleam.

Subtle Sumptuous Sparkle

Autograph jumper, £3.00, Marie Curie, Ballyhackamore

That’s obviously what was on my mind as I wandered through the local charity shops in the last few weeks. The rails have been full of chunky knitwear but it was this M&S Autograph jumper that caught my eye in Marie Curie. I’m not one for over-doing the sequins at this time of year, so this jumper is the perfect compromise - cosy and warm, with just a hint of sparkle.

Amazing Handbag Alert!

VINT A FIND GE >>>

I’m not sure I could have planned a more perfect accessory to this jumper than the amazing vintage bag I found in Re:Store. Twitter friends will know only too well just how partial I am to a leather ‘Kelly’ style bag and I can spot one at 1,000 paces. I shrieked with delight when I saw this lovely vintage item on the shelf - I’m sure the shop assistant was mildly amused! The brass detail that frames the outside of it is really unusual and despite having a reasonably sized (!!) collection of vintage bags, I don’t have one like this. It’s not just a great charity shop find, but it will be a talking point among my friends too.

Vintage Riviera handbag, £2.50, Re:Store, Newtownards Road

Clip Clip Hooray!

Vintage scarf clip, £0.50, Marie Curie, Belmont Road

My final nod to twinkle and sparkle this month is this adorable scarf clip. Winter is the season of accessories - gloves, hats and scarves to name a few of my favourites. A cute scarf can only be improved by a clip or brooch and I was delighted to find this vintage beauty for the princely sum of 50p in Marie Curie. Its autumnal colours and gold setting will brighten up a few scarves in my wardrobe.

You still have a few Christmas shopping weeks to go, so pop into your East Belfast charity shops to pick up some cards, to find a unique item for a friend or indeed to buy a thrifty treat for yourself. Your local charities will be delighted to see you. All that’s left for me to do is wish you a very happy, safe and sparkly festive season! 40 bloommagazine.co.uk

Rosie x

OPEN DAY Open day for P6 and P7 transfer pupils and their parents. ON THE DAY

THERE IS MORE TO INST THAN MEETS THE EYE

The Principal, Miss Williamson, will welcome guests in the Common Hall at 10.30am & 11.30 am. • A full range of School activities will be on display, as will classrooms, laboratories, the Design and Technology Centre, the Sports Hall, Christ Church Building and the new Art Department • Students who are considering A Level courses are very welcome. Open Day for P6 and P7 transfer pupils and their parents. Alternatively, tours will be held on Wednesday 5 February 4pm-6pm.

RBAI, College Square East, Belfast, BT1 6DL www.rbai.org.uk

SAT 11 JAN 2014 9.30am-12.30pm

Knockbreda Methodist

A Family Church

Sunday Church Service & Children’s Church at 10am Monthly praise & healing services at 7pm - see website

15th December at 10am : Nativity 22nd December at 4pm : Carol Service 24th December at 11.30pm : Christmas Eve Holy Communion 25th December at 9.30am : Christmas Day Family Service Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday:

Thursday:

Indoor Bowls MWI* Bible Study Drumming for fun Junior CE Prayer Group Friendship Club* Mens Fellowship* Krafters*

2pm 8pm 11am 6pm 6.30pm 8pm 2pm 6pm 7pm *Monthly

Tel: Rev Heather Bell 07773 710827 66 Rosetta Road, BT6 0LU

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Build For a Brighter Future

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Issue 9: September 2012

bloom Magazine The very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.