Newtownabbey in touch Christmas 2017 Issue by In-touch Magazines

Newtownabbey

Christmas 2017

your community / your life / your business

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WILIYNTICKET

A FAM ANSEL & H FOR EL GRET AC EM AT TH or side f see in

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Christmas Lights Switch On Details of this year’s events

Stay In The Black This Christmas Top tips from local debt charity

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CONTENTS: 8. TRADESMEN 26.

Before you hire a tradesman make sure you’re confident that they’re the right person for your home improvement job. A good tradesman will be only too happy to provide references.

26. SHOP LOCAL We’re all used to the appeals to ‘shop local’ and ‘support local businesses’, but how often do we stop to think about the reasoning behind such exhortations?

36. IN DEBT Carnmoney Presbyterian Church, which runs a debt counselling service in conjunction with UK charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP), has launched a list of tried-and-tested ways to avoid festive financial meltdown.

36.

42. MAZDA6 42.

Cars that drive themselves – once the preserve of science fiction films and comics – will soon hit our roads for real. But what will this new era really look like?

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR We all have dreams. Maybe yours is to be the best at something in school or at work, at a sport or some other passion. Or to make the trip somewhere in the world that you’ve been thinking about for years now. Or to improve your financial situation, social skills, find that special someone or to get into great shape. As Christmas approaches, I hope the dreams you had for 2017 have been realised and you can reflect with some satisfaction on how they have come true. If they haven’t, don’t give up! CS Lewis, the well known Christian writer once wrote ... “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream” Disclaimer

I trust this will be your inspiration as you look forward to 2018. Dreams are even more special when they include others, especially when making things better for those in need. As we approach Christmas, it’s good to be mindful of those who will spend it alone (pg 30). I encourage you to share a little of your Christmas with them, perhaps a neighbour, someone who is ill, an older person or someone who has recently lost a loved one. I was reminded by the many P1 open days (pg 19-23) taking place in our local schools at this time of year, that our young children also have dreams, accompanied by many years to make them happen.

Our local business owners will also be dreaming (and hoping) for a more profitable Chritsmas this year and with your support (pg 26) that can be possible. Maybe you’re just dreaming of a ‘White Christmas’ and from everyone at Intouch, we add to that, wishing you a very happy and blessed Christmas.

Contact: Susan Gilchrist t: 028 9332 4511 e: susan@newtownabbeyintouch.com w: www.newtownabbeyintouch.com

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accidents or any other cause. Newtownabbey In-touch does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publisher.

YOUR HOME

Christmas Decorations and Fire Risks It is always an adventure to put decorations in every room. They can be big trees or tiny ones, themed trees or evergreens, trees with lights or without, decorations on tables or in buckets or even a themed garden for those who are so inclined. Decorating homes and businesses has always been a tradition at Christmas time. It is unfortunate though that these same decorations may increase your chances of having a fire in your home or office. Understanding a few simple fire safety tips can keep electric lights, candles, and the ever popular Christmas tree from causing a tragedy.

• Check that your artificial tree is flame retardant • If you prefer a ‘real tree’, only select one with green and hard to pull back needles from the branches. You can identify an old tree by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long and possibly dried out. This is a fire hazard • Ensure that decorations are not blocking any exits. This will put you at risk • Remember to buy batteries for toys that need them - that way you won’t be tempted to remove batteries from smoke alarms Candles add to the warmth of the festive season but can be dangerous especially when left unattended. Have you considered battery operated flameless and scented candles? They look, smell and feel like real candles and of course are less likely to be hazardous. If you do use lit candles always remember to place them on a stable holder and well away from where they can be easily knocked over or set something alight. Always keep candles well away from sleeping areas. If you like to light a cosy fire at Christmas, then it is a good idea to hang your stocking elsewhere like on the stair banister, or on your tree or window sill but well away from naked flames. If your fire is rarely used during the rest of the year, get it checked and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. You do not want to discover on Christmas day that birds had nested in your chimney and your room is now full of smoke. Think ahead.

• Check your lights every year for bare spots, broken or cracked sockets. • Ensure all outdoor lights are conneted via a 30mA RCD protected socket • Always use lights that have been approved by a professional body • Never use lights outdoors unless they are specially designed for such use. Indoor lights used outside will not be resistant to moisture • Do not overload electrical sockets as it causes overheating which is a major fire hazard. If using an extension lead, connect the strings of lights to it before plugging the cord on the mains • Even if you are nipping down the street do not leave lights on unattended. All decorations should be nonflammable and away from any form of heat

Have you discussed with your family and colleagues how a fire can be prevented?

We never think we will have a fire in our home or office but if you did would you know how to get out safely? Where are your exits and are they accessible? It is essential to make sure that your escape routes are accessible at all times and are not blocked by trees, decorations, presents or furniture that has been moved around temporaliy. Be sure to have working smoke alarms installed on all levels of your home and office and test them at least every week. Be sure to teach even your young children how to call for help and keep emergency numbers handy in a folder near your telephone. Wishing you a Happy and Safe Christmas.

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YOUR HOME

A Checklist for Hiring a Tradesman We are getting some work done to our home at the moment which has required me to employ a number of different tradesmen. It has made me aware of how important it is to get good, reliable and trustworthy contractors who will do the job as they have promised to do. When planning for this work I went to Google and typed in ‘advice when employing a tradesman’. This is what I found … Before you hire a tradesman make sure you’re confident that they’re the right person for your home improvement job. A good tradesman will be only too happy to show you evidence that they’re a quality, local tradesman – don’t be afraid to ask for references, credentials and certifications.

Part P -Tradesmen need a Part P qualification to do most electrical work in your property. Ask to see proof of your tradesman’s Part P credentials to avoid having to contact your local building authority for certification. Reputation Check the tradesman’s reputation with other people that he has worked for. Ask for references and don’t be afraid to follow these up. These are the tradesman’s word of mouth recommendations. Ask about the tradesman’s quality, reliability and value allowing you to make a more informed decision on whether to hire them. Previous work – Depending on the size of the job, ask to view the tradesman’s portfolio and if possible, visit previous jobs. Take your time Talk to the tradesman over the phone or meet them in person and get a feel for their character. If you have an extensive project, you’ll meet and deal with the tradesmen for many months to come, so make sure you have a good gut feeling. The Contract The quote – Ask for a quotation for the work described, this differs from an estimate, which is a rough price and not binding. The quote should include a detailed job specification, price, conditions and a payment schedule. VAT – It is a good idea to clarify up front whether the tradesman is VAT registered and whether you will be charged any VAT. Deposit – A deposit should always be documented with a detailed invoice. The deposit should not be more than 20% of the overall job price, but should cover the tradesman’s tools, materials and travel. Payment schedule – A quote should outline the payment schedule the tradesman expects, to avoid any misunderstanding later on. Each stage of the payment schedule should be documented with an invoice, and should only cover work that has clearly been completed.

Before you pick your next tradesman, run through this check list so you can be confident that you’ve got the right tradesman for the job!

Subcontractors – Not all tradesmen who do the quote carry out the work themselves. They may work alongside other subcontractors, or hire subcontractors to complete the entire job. While this is perfectly normal it is good to clarify this up front.

Qualifications Gas Safe – By law, all tradesmen must be Gas Safe registered to carry out gas work. Registered tradesmen carry a personal ID card, so check their licence number and expiry date.

Guarantees – A tradesman will guarantee their workmanship for a period of time. Make sure you have clarified what this period is and that you have the relevant paperwork if you need to make a claim at a later stage.

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YOUR HOME

JOY TO THE WORLD! By Luke North

‘Oh God, our help in ages past’ is just one of his many works. He’s also noted for one of our most popular Christmas carols, ‘Joy to the World’ The words are by English hymn writer Isaac Watts, a minister and hymn writer, credited with some 750 hymns. And as the season of joy approaches, have you ever wondered what ‘joy’ Father Christmas witnesses as he whizzes around the world on that all-important yearly journey? What an all-encompassing view he must have as he soars across the countryside, the close-knit streets of our big towns and the sprawling vastness of our major cities? Ever wondered what he sees as he emerges, covered in soot from the mouth of your fireplace? The warmth and splendour of our festive living rooms? Or the untidy remains of late night Christmas Eve partying with the lights of the tree left on for his visit? No doubt he enjoys the twinkling baubles, the Christmassy ornaments, the fake snow sprayed along the bottom of the windows and himself with reindeers hanging from door handles or blu-tacked to the back of the hall door. Does he recognise the same tradition elsewhere? You may have a real, pine-smelling tree, next door could well have erected a white one, while further down the same street it’s an ultra-modern, shimmering deep blue.

And prior to 1931, Santa Claus himself wasn’t even sure of his own colour scheme! That big, jolly man in the red suit only came to be that big, jolly man in the red suit thanks to American illustrator Haddon Sundblom who took on an advertising job for ........ Coca Cola! In Russian homes, think blue, not red. Russia’s Father Frost inspires decorations of snowflakes and various shades of blue! In the nearby Ukraine, traditional decorations look a little more like our Halloween, that’s thanks to the Ukrainian custom of adding spiders and spider webs! (Fear

not, they tend to be silvery and gold to give a festive feel). In Greece, their longstanding sea-faring tradition means Santa will pass over towns and ports with decorated ships and find many homes with their own ornamental, decorated sailing vessels. In France, he needs to exercise care and not trip over the many logs that households have sitting around! They’re Yule logs, embellished with greenery and candles, an important part of the French Christmas season. Over in Italy, Santa may well take a second look as he glides across many town squares and piazzas. Crowds beneath his sleigh will be paying tribute to La Befana, a witch-like creature who is playing her part by delivering pressies to children. South of the equator, he will be seriously impressed that many parts of Africa decorate oil palms and mango trees both outdoors as well as in their homes. And inspired, no doubt, by their beautiful landscape, Australians often decorate for Christmas using seashells and Eucalyptus leaves. In India, where the majority of the population is Hindu and Muslim, Christmas is still a celebratory time for many where banana trees are decorated. It’s also not uncommon for homes to display banana leaves. Much further to the west, he’ll see the plant we ask ourselves each year if we’ll bother getting one: the poinsettia; in Mexico, they’re used as decoration in Nativity scenes as legend tells of two children, Pablo and his sister Maria who were so poor they could only place a dying weed at the foot of their local church Nativity scene on Christmas Eve, rewarded next morning when the leaves had turned a bright eyecatching red. So whether the big man sees banana leaves or poinsettias, spider webs or small sailing ships, be in no doubt he’ll feel welcome. Here’s hoping you have a fantastic, family time, and here’s to a Happy Christmas, filled with joy, for all In Touch readers!

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Media reports suggest we can eat a staggering 6000 kcals (25104 kJ)on Christmas day, that’s 3 times the recommended daily intake for women and over 2 times for men. Surprised? Here is an example of what it can look like: Breakfast: Two scrambled eggs on buttered, wholemeal toast with a glass of orange juice and a glass of champagne. Mid morning: two satsumas and 6 fancy chocolates Christmas lunch: Prawn cocktail to start, followed by roast turkey and all the trimmings and 2 glass of red wine. For dessert, christmas pudding and cream and a coffee, all finished up with a cheese board, glass of port and a couple of chocolates. Afternoon tea: Mince pie with a dollop of double cream and a glass of sherry. Supper: Turkey sandwich with coleslaw, crisps and a slice of christmas cake. Evening: 8 fancy chocolates and 2 glasses of wine. But we can give you some tips to reduce this and still have a brilliantly delicious day. Festive breakfasts to keep you going before dinner Breakfast is important because it gives us energy for the day ahead and is generally a good source of nutrients. But, it can often get skipped with the excitement of Christmas and with the pressure of preparing the main dinner. So whether you are ripping open your presents or busy in the kitchen, remember to take a little time to tuck into a healthy breakfast too - it could be a long time before dinner is served, increasing the tendency to snack throughout the morning. Here are some suggestions for a healthy festive breakfast: Try adding fresh fruit to your favourite cereal such as grated apple or pear, segments of satsuma or sliced banana. Alternatively you could sprinkle on a handful of nuts and dried seasonal fruit such as cranberries, dates or figs. Both fresh and dried fruit count towards your 5 a day. You could cook up some scrambled eggs and, for a bit of luxury, add trimmings of smoked salmon with chopped chives. Serve on wholemeal toast and to drink try a festive mix of freshly squeezed orange and blood orange juice and sparkling water. It maybe tempting to reach for the chocolate on the Christmas tree or from your stocking to keep you

Healthy Eating - Even on Christmas Day going before dinner but if you are feeling peckish, for a healthier alternative why not serve the family small slices of a selection of fruity breads such as malt loaf,and tea cakes with some seasonal fresh and dried fruits like clementines, dried figs and dates. Christmas dinner When it comes to dinner, there are several ways you can trim the fat and cut the calories yet still enjoy your meal. • The skin on turkey or goose is where most of the fat is so remove the skin. • Light meat has slightly fewer calories than dark meat. • Before cooking, prick the skin to allow the fat to run out and cook the bird on a trivet or an upturned ovenproof plate so it is not sitting in fat all the time. • Replace sausage meat stuffing with a chestnut or fruitbased version. • Cut your potatoes bigger for roasting. Larger ones absorb less fat during roasting as they have a smaller combined surface area than the same amount of potato cut into smaller pieces. This also applies to parsnips. Parboil the potatoes, brush with some olive or vegetable oil and then finish off in the oven. • Make bread sauce with skimmed milk. Add a clove of garlic to the milk for extra flavour. • To make low fat gravy, pour the turkey juices in to a jug and wait for the fat to rise to the surface. Carefully pour or spoon off the fat before using the juices to make gravy. Gravy can also have a high salt content; so try not to automatically add table salt to your meal as well. • Serve a variety of vegetables as they provide essential nutrients and are all low in calories and fat provided they are not covered in butter. Use chopped fresh herbs or lemon zest rather than butter to add flavour. Just one teaspoon of butter adds 40 kcal (327 kJ). • Serve Christmas pudding with custard made with lower fat milk or low fat Greek yogurt rather than double cream or brandy butter. • Do go for a walk afterwards for a breath of fresh air – it may even stop you getting indigestion. Snacks We are surrounded by tasty snacks at Christmas time that tempt us to eat when we are not really hungry. Try to stay with your natural appetite and don’t automatically say ‘yes’ to a second helping of pudding or another mince pie. Make sure you have lots of healthy treats like fruit, unsalted nuts, vegetable sticks with low fat dips and low fat yogurt, on hand and balance indulgences by eating healthily at meals.

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An Event for Everyone. Belfast City Marathon moves into its 37th year in 2018 with its continued support from title sponsor Deep RiverRock. Launched in 1982 with 3025 entrants, the event takes place on May Day each year, now bringing over 17,000 people to Belfast. Though the vast majority of entrants are local, the event proves to be of great interest 37 years on with around 20% of registrations from outside of Northern Ireland. Whether you’re a marathon athlete, keen walker, fundraiser, interested in athletics at school or simply love a challenge, there is an event to suit you on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May 2018! Marathon Run and Wheelchair Race The 26.2 mile main marathon race takes place on Monday 7th May, starting from Belfast City Hall at 9.00am.

Participants must be over 18 years old to enter. The route is renowned for being a tough challenge for the marathon entrant, in particular the notorious hill section of the Antrim Road. However, the Belfast event is equally renowned for the incredible local support and crowds to cheer you on throughout your 26.2 miles! Please see www.belfastcitymarathon.com for details. Marathon Team Relay The team relay is for teams of ‘two to five’ people, running the same course as the main marathon race. The team relay also starts from Belfast City Hall at 9.00am and participants must be over 16 years old to enter. This event is perfect if you are exploring an interest in running as there are ‘legs’ of the marathon route ranging from 3.3 miles. More often than not friends, work colleagues or schools will form a team and raise much needed funds for

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charity. The team relay event has assisted in raising over £1.1million for local charities annually since its launch in 1989. The event organisers will be running a competition again in 2018 exclusive to post primary schools across Northern Ireland. If a school enters more than 10 people in the team relay or fun run events, they will automatically qualify to win a cash prize. 8 Mile Walk The 8 mile walk, first launched in 1997, continues to be a popular non-competitive event. The walk will start from Belfast City Hall at 9.00am and participants must be over 16 years old to enter. Whether you are part of a walking club or want to set a realistic health and fitness goal for 2018, the buzz of race day and being part of the biggest marathon event in NI is an opportunity not to be missed.

Fun Run The Fun Run is approximately 3 miles long and will commence after the main marathon race at 9.00am in front of Belfast City Hall and finishes in Ormeau Park. There is no minimum age for the Fun Run, however all entrants must be accompanied by one adult for health and safety reasons. This event is ideal for the whole family to team together and it attracts a wide range of ages, from primary school to mums running with buggies, to those wanting to compete in a short race for fun! An opportunity is available to design the 2018 Fun Run certificate and win prizes for your school whilst assisting with starting the Race on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May with the Lord Mayor of Belfast. So what are you waiting for? Enter now at www.belfastcitymarathon.com

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Helping Local People with Sight Loss A large and very cute Labrador/Retriever dog and her two puppies sit permanently at the entrance door of Specsavers Newtownabbey. They’re not as cuddly and loveable as the real thing but have proved invaluable for people living with sight loss. Through the kindness and generosity of Specsavers patients and staff, centre staff and daily shoppers to Abbeycentre, over £3,500 has been placed into the extralarge Guide Dogs NI money box over the past two years. That’s enough cash to buy everything on a Guide Dogs NI ‘shopping list’ three times over. Based in Belfast, Guide Dogs NI provides a range of services for people living with sight loss - around 30,000 adults and children here. As the strapline on the fundraising resin dog says, ‘every penny counts.’ Amy Colvin from Guide Dogs NI explains, ‘A current Guide Dogs ‘shopping list’ includes a range of items; everything from a ‘whelping kit’ (a bed and items for delivering puppies) to dog eye tests, white harnesses, blue puppy dog coats and visits to the vet. ‘£3,500 is a fantastic sum of money raised through daily donations and we’re delighted to partner with Specsavers in Newtownabbey.’ Staff at Specsavers Abbeycentre, which next year marks 15 years looking after the eyes and ears of the local community, also welcomed four special guests to help them celebrate reaching this important milestone. Rathcoole women, Diane Marks and Andrea Hope along with their gorgeous guide dogs, Morris and Debbie

Guide dog owners Diane Marks (front left) with Morris and Andrea Hope with her dog Debbie are pictured with Siobhan McGoldrick (left) store director and Jordan Fleming (right) optical assistant. Also included is Amy Colvin (centre) from Guide Dogs NI. popped along to Specsavers Abbeycentre to thank staff and customers. Both Andrea and Diane are familiar faces at Abbeycentre and without their highly skilled dogs, life simply wouldn’t have the same meaning or purpose. Diane explains the impact of having her dog Morris constantly by her side. ‘Morris gives me total independence and allows me to get out and about. It really makes me feel so normal and part of society. We can even take our dogs on planes as well as trains, buses and cars.’ Andrea agreed saying, ‘Debbie was a very special Christmas delivery three years ago. Debbie is actually my fourth guide dog and is a wonderful companion, as well as helping me lead a normal and very sociable life.’ Both Andrea and Diane are pleased that people of all ages are benefiting from guide dogs. In Northern Ireland there are over 100 active guide dog partnerships with the youngest person being 15. There are around 20 people on the NI waiting list for a guide dog and Specsavers Abbeycentre staff are hoping to raise even more funds in the future for this very important charity.

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FAMILY LIFE

AS I SEE IT.......... So I’m off to big school, mummy said. Daddy thinks it will be good for me. Daddy says I need to meet more friends. Mummy says she’ll leave me in. Daddy says I will learn lots of things. But they told me Fluffy can’t come. He has to stay at home. He’ll be lonely. He might cry all day with no one to talk to. I might cry if he’s alone so I’m going to leave him on my pillow. Bunny rabbits like to be cuddled. I’ll cuddle him when I get home after lunch. We all went to see the new school this morning. Mummy and daddy came too. We met a lady who will be my teacher. I thought she looked nice with her curly hair and nice, shiny teeth. They sort of sparkled. Mummy told me not to stare. She says my teacher wears a brace, whatever that is. But I liked her. And I liked her smell. Sort of roses and yellow ice cream. Her name is Miss something. I’ll ask mummy again but she’s Miss something or other and she’s nice. She smiled at me. She showed me where I can hang my new coat. Mummy says I’ll grow into it but I can’t see the end of my arms very well. There’s a giraffe where I hang my coat. Not a real one, but a picture. Daddy says giraffes have blue tongues but I think he’s teasing me. How could someone have a blue tongue!

Miss something said my school is a good school. She said I can have my breakfast but I told mummy I don’t want to. Imagine what Fluffy would say if I didn’t even have breakfast with him...... Daddy says the playground is cool. It’s like a big park, but it’s not. It’s beside my classroom and we will go out and play in it. There’s a climbing frame and I can’t wait to try it. Miss something or other says there’s going to be other boys and girls in my school as well. I don’t know their names. Maybe I’ll learn them. She says I will learn to read books and write my name. I can already write my name. Mummy showed me. And mummy lets me count to ten. Or is it eleven, or eleventeen? I can’t remember. My mummy and daddy always read me a story at bedtime. Miss something or other says she will read me stories. I hope I don’t have to go to bed at school.

And daddy says I will be getting a lunchbox just like his. I hope I’ll be able to open it. I told him I don’t want his smelly onion sandwiches. I would like the biscuits mummy puts in. Mummy says she will let me have yoghurt but not those horrible sandwiches of daddy’s. My teacher says I can have lunch in school if I like. She says they have chicken nuggets and sometimes fish fingers. I like having fish finger sandwiches and I like red sauce on them but mummy says not too much. Mummy and daddy took ages with my new teacher. I said I wanted to go home and see Fluffy, and Miss something or other said she hoped she would see me next year. She must be going away somewhere if she can’t see me till next year. But I don’t mind. By that time I will have grown into a big girl and maybe my coat will be up my arms a bit. I hope Fluffy will feel okay on his own. When I come home from school I’m going to tell him all about what I’ve been doing. And the teacher says I can bring him in one day. That sounds good. That sounds like fun. I think I’m going to like going to school. And sure it’s only for a wee while, for a few days. Yes, I can’t wait!

By Luke North

BbALLYCLARE

ANNUAL OPEN DAY 2017/18 13th December 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:20am. Foreword by Principal: Mrs K. A. Mulligan

------------------------------------------------------------------------Ballyclare Primary School is an Award Winning 545 pupil school in the centre of Ballyclare Town. The character and behaviour of the children are exemplary, showing a willingness and enthusiasm to learn. ETI Report (2015) commends the Outstanding Leadership, Pastoral Care, Additional Needs Support and the High Academic Standards with Creative Teaching and Learning Experiences in place for all pupils. Extended School Activities are given high priority with Breakfast Club, Sports, Music, ICT, STEM and Outdoor Learning available. Check out our Website: www.ballyclareps.co.uk

Doagh Road Ballyclare Co. Antrim BT39 9BG

Tel: 028 93322389

Come & join our Ashgrove family!

ASHGROVE PRIMARY SCHOOL

ASHGROVE PRIMARY SCHOOL OPEN NIGHT

OPEN DAY Thursday 16th November

For New Primary 1’s and prospective pupils

For New Primary Prospective 6.301’s–and 8.45 pm Puplis Principal’s19th address 6.40 pm Tuesday December

early to late. This includes our Breakfast Club, After School ‘Learning, Caring, Growing Stronger Together’

Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do! Staff seek to provide children with a happy and secure atmosphere in which to learn and develop their unique talents.

Childcare and wide range of interesting After Schools

various sports, ICT, Coding, Choir and Orchestra. Come and see why we achieveClubssuch outstanding results Music tuition is also available. Sign up for a personal tour of the school on Our Ashgrove family has a nurturing and inclusive ethos. We pride ourselves on working alongside parents/carers We are a happy school and blessedTuesday with pupils who are create the best environment for our pupils to learn and 19thtoDecember motivated and enthusiastic about all aspects of their grow. Our Leadership & Management were identified as school life. This all contributes to excellent AQE results. forms “Highly Effective” in the most recent ETI inspection (March Enrolment available ’16)- the highest standard awarded to schools. Ashgrove Primary School is well established and respected in Newtownabbey. We have a strong tradition of high Come and see us in action: standards of pupil attainment and conduct - this is Open night - Thursday 16th November, 6:30 – 8:45pm info@ashgroveps.newtownabbey.ni.sch.uk Tel: 028 90 848734 reflected in the high expectations of all members of staff. Open day - Tues 19th December, 9:30am or 11:30am To help busy parents we offer “wrap around care” from (guided tours available)

www.ashgroveprimary.com

St. Mary’s on the Hill Primary School

OPEN DAY

Friday 1st December 2017

9.30am – 10.45am Principal’s address: 9.30am

Education Training Inspectorate (ETI) 2016/2017: “The children are welcoming, considerate and respectful to one another and to adults. There is a notable maturity in the children’s attitude to learning and they exemplify very well the aspiration behind the school’s motto: ‘Learn to

Love, Love to Learn.” “The quality of pastoral care provision is outstanding” “The school has comprehensive arrangements in place for safeguarding children” www.stmarysonthehill.co.uk 142 Carnmoney Road, BT36 6JU

Tel: (028) 9083 6284

FAMILY LIFE

Have we lost the art of playing with our children?

‘Opting for traditional toys has countless benefits’ We have just tidied out our attic. And, yes, we deserve a medal! Most of what resided up there, neglected and forgotten, belonged to the kids. Old bits of plastic toys, broken dolls and graffiti-emblazoned Barbi caravans, lurked behind the eves. It got me thinking about the terrible waste that is created through unnecessary toy buying. The countless trips to the dump, the cost and the sheer pointlessness of it all. After all, what are toys meant to be about? Are they simply things to keep our children amused and out of our hair, something to ‘keep them going’ until they are old enough to hold a phone? Or should they be something just a little bit more? Should they have a bit more significance? Toys should help children develop their sense of wonder and creativity. They should help us to engage with our children. But, in this digital, plastic age, have we simply lost the art of playing with our children? In our landing we have a lovely traditional rocking horse. It was a great toy, but now it’s a great thing to look at. The kids might be a bit too old for it, but we still love it. And there’s the lovely old dolls’ house I still have from my childhood along with Teddy Robinson, the jointed Teddy who must be 60 if he’s a day. Call it nostalgia, but I still have him in my bedroom! Many toys claim to be educational - to have your child reading well before the rest of the children at the mothers and toddlers group! The ‘educational aisle’ at my local toy mega store used to fill me with dread. It was quite overwhelming, filled with battery-operated toys with cartridges, sounds, and styluses. Instead of focusing our attention on machines that speak, early learners need to practice skills which will boost their creativity and confidence, help them to learn in a classroom, or speak up

By Donna McCullough Samuel Johnston

for themselves. Toys should be inspirational, simple and fun. They should keep children active and encourage them to play outdoors. And we, as parents and carers need to change too. We need to be willing to play. For starters, we need to get down on the floor with our kids and get involved. There is no shame in trying to amaze and astonish when kids open their gifts, but if we want to turn our toy purchases into extra special investments, then we need to play as well. It’s as simple as that. And we need to stop buying rubbish and invest in quality items which will stand the test of time. We must stop cluttering the house with cheap plastic which will end up in the attic or landfill. When I was young I remember my granny bought me a wonderful Silvercross Doll’s pram. Ok, I might have used it to transport kittens, rather than dolls, but I loved it. And I recall my wooden train set, metal pig lorry, and lovely Paddington Bear. Toys are a wonderful way of connecting with our children. They inspire great joy and happiness. Quality traditional toys bring with them years of heritage and can be passed down through the generations. Our connection with that old teddy or ancient train set is really something magical and is also an important emotional link back to our formative years.

www.samueljohnston.com

baby stuff with personality

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FAMILY LIFE

Shop Local This Christmas We’re all used to the appeals to ‘shop local’ and ‘support local businesses’, but how often do we stop to think about the reasoning behind such exhortations?

the exact amount you require instead of pre-defined quantities. Have you ever tried buying just four sausages in a large supermarket? Not everyone wants, needs or can afford, super-size packs.

Firstly, what exactly do we mean when we talk about shopping locally? Well obviously it means making purchases in local shops, but it also refers to using the services of local businesses, rather than those not in our immediate vicinity whenever possible.

Environmental: Local shops are more likely to provide local food - and they are more energy efficient than huge superstores. According to Friends of The Earth:‘It would take more than 60 greengrocers to match the carbon dioxide emissions from just one average superstore’. That’s certainly food for thought when we’re all becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues.

Simple isn’t it!

Social: Think of the word ‘town centre’ and what image does it conjure up? The very hub of a community where people can shop, socialise, eat out or meet friends. A thriving, bustling environment with a good range of services to meet the needs of local residents. Economic: Local shops can keep money circulating in the local area, providing jobs for local residents and supporting other local businesses. Not only that but evidence shows that there are lower levels of crime and higher levels of good health in areas that are economically prosperous. Actually there are several social and economic benefits inherent in supporting local businesses and shops. Service: Local shops and businesses often offer a very high level of personal service - they know their customers and their customers know them!

Support: Sole traders and independent stores are proportionally more generous in their support for local charities, schools and community events. So supporting local shops means a financial return for our community.

Choice: A good range of local shops and services can provide more choice than one large ‘one size fits all organisation’.

Convenience: Most people can get to their local shops easily. This is especially important for the elderly, the vulnerable, young people and those without private transport. Keeping your shops open by buying locally helps the whole community.

Value: Shopping locally saves time and money. Don’t believe this? Well just add up the cost of petrol, and the time it takes, to travel out of the local area - quite significant isn’t it? Not only that, but you can often buy

Have a good look around your local area this Christmas - you may well be surprised at the range of services available and the value for money on offer. Shop local: it makes sense!

Festive Fairytale Christmas at the MAC In the heart of the city you’ll find the MAC, Belfast’s new arts venue. With two theatres, three art galleries, a FREE family room and a café bar, NATIVE by Yellow Door, the MAC’s a great spot for family days out. This Christmas, the venue is going all out by transforming into a winter wonderland to coincide with the magical family Christmas show, Hansel and Gretel. There’ll be sweet treats galore with the magical Christmas window, free to visit Phoenix Sweetie Shop, and festive fun for all the family. Here’s a roundup of what you can expect from 19 November:

Christmas Light Switch On

Sunday 19 November, 4:30-5:30pm FREE Come and help the MAC and Phoenix Natural Gas switch on the Christmas lights and reveal our amazing Phoenix Sweetie shop and Christmas window. If you’ve been to the MAC’s Christmas Lights switch on event before, you’ll know that it’s a treat for all the family – the perfect way to start your Christmas countdown. This year, we’re going all out for this special day. You can expect some astounding magic from our good friend David Meade, Christmas candy floss, magicians and face painters. There may even be even a visit from Santa himself!

Family Show: Hansel and Gretel

28 Nov – 7 Jan, Child £10, Adults from £12.50 Proudly sponsored by Phoenix Natural Gas, our family shows are becoming quite a tradition – with music, fun and spectacular action. This year, find the true meaning of Christmas at the MAC with Hansel & Gretel, a family show produced by the MAC and proudly sponsored by Phoenix Natural Gas. Join Hansel & Gretel in a modern version of their classic tale and you’ll discover why friendship, laughter and a big

bag of sweets are essential to making Christmas time the happiest, twinkliest and funniest time of the year with loved ones. Expect big songs, an evil witch and an all-important candy trail in this all-ages show, but those 5+ will get the biggest kicks. Book now at themaclive.com.

4 or more Saver

We know just how expensive Christmas can be, so we’ve created the most flexible Family Ticket in town. With our family saver, you’ll automatically save 10% on your booking. Simply add 4 or more Hansel and Gretel tickets to your basket and we’ll do the rest.

Phoenix Sweetie Shop From 19 Nov, FREE Step inside our Sweetie Shop, go on, just take a seat Is there someone in your life that’s known to make it sweet? It might be a parent or a friend that’s helped you find your way. Whoever it is we want to know and thank them for their say. The MAC and Phoenix Natural Gas are excited to open the Phoenix Sweetie Shop. Tell us about that special someone who has made your life that little bit sweeter as Phoenix Natural Gas would love to celebrate them. Free to visit, you’ll find the Phoenix Sweetie Shop on the ground floor beside Saint Anne’s Square entrance.

aMAZEing Christmas Crafts 16 – 31 Dec, 11am, £7 per child

Just like Hansel and Gretel, get lost this Christmas in our aMAZEing crafty workshop. Make your own Christmassy 3D MAZE and unwrap the puzzle to help Hansel and Gretel find their way home. Recommended age: 4-11 years.

FAMILY LIFE

‘Tis the Season to be Jolly If you are the one who is alone and notice that your mood is dipping, either before or at the Christmas holiday period, please do call the Samaritans on 116123 from anywhere in the UK or the ROI.

Christmas for most of us is a time for family, friends and fun. It is a time when we make memories for life and share experiences with those close to us. BUT, it isn’t the same for everyone. As a GP I have learned over the years that there is a silent minority who don’t have a Happy Christmas – those who spend Christmas alone. There are others who have recently lost a loved one and others who have been laid off work at the worst possible time facing a very uncertain future with many financial and family commitments. And others still that I haven’t mentioned, living with very sad circumstances. For these folk Christmas can be a painful and sad time which can tip them over the edge from being a bit down to having full blown depression, a breakdown, or even contemplating suicide. Studies have shown that suicide rates in general rise in the Spring with “protective factors” like family proximity at holiday time seemly preventing a rise at Christmas and New year. But what if you don’t have family and that protective factor? This is worrying for us as health professionals, and for those in various support agencies like social work and charities for Homeless, Elderly, Ex-prisoners etc. Christmas and New year can be a time of deep melancholy and sadness, compounded by all of the joy around that these poor folk aren’t included in. At Christmas time can I urge readers to be aware of those who may not have family to spend Christmas with, and spare them even 15 minutes just to bring them a box of chocolates or a portion of Christmas dinner from your table. There are charities who will be out on the streets serving meals to the homeless, trying to bring some cheer. By all means volunteer with them, but, let us not forget those who are not necessarily homeless, but are still very alone. This could be a neighbour or someone in a nearby nursing home who would love you to visit. A little intervention like this could make all the difference to someone prone to depression who is all alone.

Prevention is better, so if you are anticipating a lonely sad Christmas because of your circumstances, please try to prevent this by finding a Church or other volunteer group who are having a get together for people like you who are alone. You may feel out of your “comfort zone” but surely this is better than being sad and alone and at risk of mental health deterioration. If you are feeling low, having difficulty sleeping, are off your food, find yourself comfort eating, struggling to keep your mind on things and concentrating, or putting things off that you really need to do, you may be suffering from depression. You may also be anxious and feeling nervous about going out or meeting people and feel that you have lost your confidence. It may be that your depression is a reaction to difficult or traumatic circumstances that you have found yourself in or it may be a longstanding thing that you cannot reason why. Whichever it is, there is help at hand. Visiting your GP may seem like a big hurdle to overcome, but it is going to be worth it if you can be signposted to the correct counselling service, referred to the correct specialist, or be put on the correct medication. There are also self-help strategies - websites like “livinglifetothefull.com” and “mind gym” which can help you to assess yourself and your needs, and, also, if appropriate get ideas on how you can help yourself. People with depression typically feel that there is “no point” or there is “no hope” but this is part and parcel of depression so please don’t be guided by this instinct! Please do seek help. Christmas is traditionally a time of giving. I would like to issue a challenge to all of you to give a little of your time this Christmas to spread some cheer to others who don’t have what you have! Happy Christmas - everyone! By Dr. Roger Brown NHS GP and sessional GP in Kingsbridge Private Hospital

FAMILY LIFE

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Give the Gift of Lough Erne Resort this Christmas Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year and there is no better gift to bestow on loved ones than an experience at the five-star Lough Erne Resort. The Resort’s Christmas Choice Vouchers are the perfect stocking filler and have been tailored to offer just that – choice. Recipients can choose from a carefully selected menu of three experiences, all designed to surprise and delight. Whether it’s a lesson in the golf academy for Dad, a spa treatment for your best friend or a Sunday lunch in the Catalina Restaurant for the in-laws, the Ladies and Gentlemen’s Christmas Vouchers (£60) are sure to be well received. The Resort Choice Voucher (£139) allows the recipient to choose from a delectable menu of options for two including a five-course tasting menu, overnight stay or spa treatment. Christmas Hampers with exquisite local produce are also available for you to enjoy at home this holiday season by acclaimed Executive Head Chef Noel McMeel. With a focus on the finest ingredients sourced close to Lough Erne Resort, these hampers are the ultimate way to enjoy an indulgent Christmas.

For those looking to truly put their feet up in style instead of spending hours in the kitchen, the five-star Lough Erne Resort’s luxury Christmas Escape is not to be missed and is the perfect gift a family can give themselves. Arrive Christmas Eve to the magic of roaring open fires, indulge in festive favourites such as mince pies, mulled wine, eggnog and hot chocolate, before enjoying a good night’s rest. Awake the next morning to a bucks fizz breakfast and the chance for the little ones to open their presents with Santa Claus. A five-course Christmas lunch featuring the best local ingredients awaits in the award-winning Catalina Restaurant followed by a relaxed day of board games and Christmas movies on the big screen. The package is available for a two-night stay from £549/ three night stay £649 per person sharing. Children between the ages of 3-13 years can have their own room from £270 for two nights/£315 for three nights. For further inspiration for luxurious Christmas gift options visit www.lougherneresort.com

CHRISTMAS gift experiences with lough erne resort

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE - £10 GIFT FOR EVERY £100 SPENT For a limited period receive a complimentary £10 Gift Voucher for you to enjoy, with every £100 of vouchers you purchase online. Alternatively there is also a wide range of luxury gift voucher experiences available to purchase from lougherneresort.com.

lougherneresort.com

T: +44(0)28 6632 3230

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Andy’s Stores Andy’s Stores

028 9086 9708

028 9086 9708 028 9086 9708

COMMUNITY

Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On & Guide ANTRIM SWITCH ON 17 November : 5.30pm - 7.30pm

BALLYNURE CHRISTMAS SWITCH ON

Tuesday 28 November at 7pm.

Antrim town is the place to be with Sonya Mac and Q Radio kicking off the festive season with music and games for all the family. Mr Hullabaloo and Jingles will entertain the crowd from 6pm. One of the highlights is sure to be the special children’s prize draw. Come along and see Toby Pinecone to make sure you are on Santa’s list. A spectacular fireworks display will round off a great festive evening.

This will be hosted by Ballynure Presbyterian Church, who will kindly be providing a light supper. There will be a visit from Santa with a free gift for all the “good” boys and girls ;-) Everyone welcome.

BELFAST CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH-ON

See Beauty and the Beast and friends and take part in a craft session in the Beasts Mansion - £4 per person (ticket required – sessions start at 1.30pm) which includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Santa and friends arrive at 5pm.

18 November : 6.30pm An evening of musical fun awaits with mini shows and traditional carols before the big switch on. Taking place in front of Belfast City Hall, this annual festive light switch on is a great way for families to count down to Christmas.

BALLYCLARE CHRISTMAS MARKET AND LIGHT SWITCH ON

25 November : 2.30pm - 6.00pm

A winter themed Christmas market with a selection of produce from local traders as well as Bonkers Betty’s Bizarre Bazaar’s Festive Craft market situated in the heart of Ballyclare Town Centre. What more could a shopper want? See Beauty and the Beast and friends and take part in a craft session in the Beasts Mansion - £4 per person (ticket required – sessions start at 1.30pm) which includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Santa and friends arrive at 5pm for the big lights switch on.

GLENGORMLEY CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH-ON 2 December : 2.30pm - 6.00pm

MOSSLEY MILL CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE 7 December

Come join us from 6.30pm at Mossley Mill as we celebrate the festive season with a short service of readings and carols and music hosted by Claire McCollum.

CHRISTMAS SENSORY STORYTELLING (FOR AGES 2-6YRS)

22 December : 9:30am-10:30am

Going on an imagination adventure - where will we go today? This monthly, small group storytelling session is complete with puppets, costume, props and sensory toys. Stories like never before in the historic surroundings of Ballyclare Town Hall! The session capacity is 15 children. Ages: 2-6yrs | Cost: £3 per child

Events this Christmas Frock Around the Clock

A Winter Wonderland of Arts & Crafts

The Very Christmassy Vintage & Handmade Fair

Saturday 9th December, 12pm until 3pm Market Square, Lisburn City Centre

Saturday 2nd December, 12pm until 5pm Market Square, Lisburn City Centre

Come along to this very ‘Wintery’ arts and crafts day in Market Square with family fun activities including design your own snowman, snowflake, bauble making and more with a candy cane hunt throughout the City Centre. Popular Christmas movie characters will also be in attendance with a free showing of family favourite ELF, all under a cosy marquee!

Frock around the Clock Vintage Fair returns to Market Square with a Christmas themed shopping experience providing gifts, decorations, fashion accessories and more.

Rock Around the Christmas Tree Glow Trail

Festive Fashion Evening Thursday 23rd November, 7pm until 9pm 1 Castle Street, Lisburn City Centre Festive Fashion evening hosted by Cool FM’s very own fashion guru Rebecca McKinney. Pick up your free copy of the NEW Love Lisburn Gift guide with products from the guide showcased in our Christmas Catwalk Show commencing at 7.30pm, all with live music and dancing mannequins!

Thursday 14th December, 5pm until 8pm Market Square, Lisburn City Centre Rock Around the Christmas Tree returns for its third year with a special Glow trail throughout the City Centre showcasing local eateries, shops and entertainment venues along the way, finishing up with a glow in the dark themed disco on the interactive LED dance floor in Market Square.

Reindeer Hunt

Saturday 25th November, until Thursday 21st December Lisburn City Centre Santa’s missing reindeer will take up position hiding in shop windows from Saturday 25th November. To join in the great Reindeer Hunt, simply find a store with a reindeer in the window, pop inside and pick up a Reindeer Hunt card.

COMMUNITY

“WE WISH YOU A PRICELESS CHRISTMAS” A LOCAL debt charity has released its own top tips for staying in the black over the festive season. Carnmoney Presbyterian Church, which runs a debt counselling service in conjunction with UK charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP), has launched a list of tried-and-tested ways to avoid festive financial meltdown. Daniel Black, Belfast North and Newtownabbey Debt Centre Manager has noted that during the last few years the Newtownabbey CAP Debt Centre has seen a spike in the numbers of people coming to them in the months after Christmas. He said: “The reason for this is either because some people realise they have spent more than they can afford, or they have reached a crisis point in their finances. Various things can trigger this, but most commonly it’s job loss, an unexpected illness or relationship breakdown.” “Now is the right time for families to talk to each other about creating a sensible game-plan for a Christmas and a Happy New Year - for everyone.” The top tips have come from both the experience of those within the charity as well as CAP’s own clients who know what it is like to stick to a tight budget as they clear their debts. 1. Agree on a game plan to stop all of you overspending: do a ‘secret Santa’? Agree on a set amount each? A ‘just for the kids’ rule? A ‘from charity shops only’ rule? 2. If children have their heart set on something out of your price range, club together with relatives. 3. Short of a new Christmas outfit? Get together with mates for a swapping party and you’ll all go home with something new, without the cost.

4. If you’re doing the meal, ask guests to each contribute something: drinks? pudding? cheese? cake? a turkey?! If you’re spending time cooking a Christmas feast, you are already giving a lot. 5. Aim to only buy the food you will actually eat and decide what you will do with left-overs. For example, potato cakes can be made from cooked potatoes, make stock from the Turkey carcass, soup from uneaten vegetables or freeze unused gravy for another time. 6. Home-made goodies – cupcakes, chocolate truffles, shortbread, jam – all are cheap to make and, wrapped with cellophane and ribbon, make great presents. 7. Your time and thoughtfulness are every bit as valuable as your money. Instead of presents, offer vouchers for gardening, washing the car, a few hours cleaning, ironing or making someone’s favourite cake or snack. 8. So many people live alone – a cheery visit from you is worth more than any present. 9. Spend time focusing on what you can enjoy at no cost and make Christmas really special: watching your kids in the school nativity; watching the lights get switched on; enjoying Christmas carols in church; dressing the tree; playing family games. 10. Never take out credit or be tempted by a Christmas loan – you don’t know what the new year will bring. Your income may change and it could affect your whole family’s security. No Christmas is worth that. If you have problem debts, give yourself the gift of peace of mind: visit www.capdebthelp.org or call 0800 328 0006

CALL FREE ON

0800 328 0006

or 01274 760839 may be cheaper from a mobile

Weighed down by

debt? Free debt counselling in your community from an award winning charity

capdebthelp.org facebook.com/CAPuk

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t: 01274 760720 e: info@capuk.org Registered Office: Jubilee Mill, North Street, Bradford, BD1 4EW Registered Charity No: 1097217. Charity registered in Scotland No: SC038776. Company Limited by Guarantee, Registered in England and Wales No: 4655175. CAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Reg No: 413528.

Useful Numbers Medical Centres Abbot Cross Ballyclare Glengormley Notting Hill Old School Rosehall Tramways Templepatrick

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ANGLO-ITALIAN TRIFLE by Nigella Lawson

INGREDIENTS Serves: 12-14

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1. Split the trifle sponges and make little

sandwiches of them using 150g / twothirds cup of the jam, then wedge them into the base of your glass bowl. Reduce the amaretti biscuits to rubble in the processor and, reserving some crumbs for sprinkling over the top at the end, scatter most of them evenly over the sponges and then pour over them 150ml / two-thirds cup of the limoncello.

2. Put the remaining 50g / one-third

cup of jam into a wide saucepan with the lemon juice and melt over a low heat, then tumble in the blackberries and turn in the heat for a minute or so just until the juices start running. Tip these over the biscuit-sprinkled, liqueur-soused sponge sandwiches to cover and leave this while you get on with the next bit.

• 8 trifle sponges • 200 grams blackcurrant jam • 200 grams amaretti biscuits • 250 millilitres limoncello or other lemon liqueur • Juice of ½ lemon • 750 grams blackberries • 2 large eggs (separated) • 100 grams caster sugar • 750 grams mascarpone cheese • 50 grams flaked almonds

3. Whisk the egg yolks with the caster

sugar until you have a thick smooth yellow paste. I use my Kitchen Aid for this, but any old hand-held electric mixer or whisk would be fine. Still whisking, drip in another 50ml / 3 tablespoons limoncello and continue whisking away until you have a light moussey mixture. Whisk in the mascarpone until everything is smoothly combined, and when this is done add the remaining 50ml / 3 tablespoons of limoncello.

4. Finally, in another bowl, whisk the

egg whites until firm, but not dry, and fold these into the lemony, eggy mascarpone mixture. Now spread this gently over the blackberries in the glass bowl.

5. Cover the thus-far assembled trifle with clingfilm and leave in the fridge for the

flavours and textures to steep and meld for at least 4 hours and up to 24.

6. Take the trifle out of the fridge for

about 40 minutes to an hour before it’s needed to get to coolish room temperature. Not long before you want to eat, toast the flaked almonds by tossing them in a dry, oil-less pan over medium heat until they are turning gold and flashed bronze in parts, then tip them on to a plate. When they’re cool, mix them with the reserved amaretti crumbs. Remove the clingfilm from the bowl and scatter the nuts and crumbs over the pale, set surface. Dig in and serve, making sure to heap the full triple-banded layer on each plate: the lemony, almondy, cream-swathed berrieness makes this the perfect ending to a large, lazy Christmas meal.

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MOTORING

Amazing offers from Ballyrobert Mazda on stylish Mazda6 Ballyrobert Mazda on Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey, is offering some incredible deals and special finance offers on the Mazda6. Priced from £19,995 for Saloon models and £22,825 for Tourer models, the Mazda6 is available with zero deposit and 0% APR* on Mazda Personal Contract Purchase. Ballyrobert Mazda is also offering a £2,500 Mazda Deposit Contribution on all Mazda6 petrol models and £3,750 all Mazda6 diesel models. The Mazda6 features Mazda’s award-winning SKYACTIV Technology and is available with a choice of fuel efficient SKYACTIV-D diesel and SKYACTIV-G petrol engines with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission options. The 6-speed manual Mazda6 Saloon 150ps Diesel offers CO2 emissions as low as 107g/km and an impressive combined fuel consumption of 68.9mpg. The 6-speed manual Mazda6 Tourer 150ps SE and SE-L Nav Diesel models offer CO2 emissions as low as 110g/km and combined fuel economy figure of 67.3mpg. John Lyle, Ballyrobert Mazda Dealer Principal, said, “The Mazda6 features eye-catching styling, a high level of standard equipment, sophisticated interior design,

plus excellent driving comfort, making it perfect for Newtownabbey motorists. With our range of fantastic finance offers, we are sure the Mazda6 will be a popular choice for motorists.” As part of the optional Safety Pack on Sport Nav models there are a host of innovative safety technologies designed to aid the driver. These include Lane-keep Assist with Driver Attention Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive LED Headlights and Rear Smart City Brake Support.

The Mazda6 is also fitted with G-Vectoring Control, which intelligently redistributes engine torque and power between the wheels. The result is an improvement to steering and handling performance for a more comfortable ride. The Mazda6 comes equipped with Mazda’s MZD-Connect system, which enables access to navigation (on selected models), internet radio stations, social media, and text messages. Further standard features include DAB digital radio, integrated Bluetooth, a seven-inch colour touch-screen display, USB and iPod® connectivity. The range-topping Mazda6 Sport Nav models feature black leather seats, a Bose® sound system and LED headlights as standard. Also available is the Colour Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition, a high-definition colour display that allows the driver to see vehicle speed, cruise control, turn-by-turn navigation and certain traffic signs in their line of sight, without shifting focus away from the road. For customers with an older car to trade in, Ballyrobert Mazda offers the chance to save up to £5,000 on the purchase of a new Mazda as part of the Scrappage Upgrade Plan. Until the end of the year, customers trading in vehicles

registered before 31 December 2009 can save up to £5,000 off Mazda’s range of low-emission (sub 130g/km) cars.

For more information about the Mazda6 and the full range of Mazda models, visit the Mallusk Road showroom, Call 028 9009 8354 or go to www.ballyrobert-mazda.co.uk

MAZDA MAZDA APPROVED APPROVED USED CARS USED CARS MAZDA6 SPORT NAV MAZDA6 SPORT NAV

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Mazda Personal Contract Purchase Mazda Personal Contract Representative Example Purchase Representative Example 48 Monthly Payments 48 Monthly Payments On The Road Price On The Road Price Customer Deposit Customer Deposit Amount of Credit Amount of Credit Interest Charges Interest Charges Optional Final Payment Optional Final Payment Total Amount Payable Total Amount Payable Fixed Rate of Interest Fixed Rate of Interest Duration of Agreement Duration of Agreement Annual Mileage Annual Mileage Excess Mileage Charge per mile Excess Mileage Charge per mile Representative Representative

£269.00 £269.00 £18,495.00 £18,495.00 £1,725.48 £1,725.48 £16,769.52 £16,769.52 £3,307.21 £3,307.21 £7,164.73 £7,164.73 £21,802.21 £21,802.21 3.55% p.a. 3.55% p.a. 49 months 49 months 6,000 6,000 14.9p 14.9p * 6.9% APR 6.9% APR*

2016 Mazda2 1.5 SE-L 5DR grey, 33k, Bluetooth®® controls on steering wheel, ABS £7,995 2016 Mazda2 1.5 SE-L 5DR grey, 33k, Bluetooth controls on steering wheel, ABS £7,995 ® 2017 Mazda2 1.5 SE L Nav 5DR Auto, rose, delivery miles, 7" touchscreen, Bluetooth £13,495 ® 2017 Mazda2 1.5 SE L Nav 5DR Auto, rose, delivery miles, 7" touchscreen, Bluetooth £13,495 2017 blue, 650 650 miles, miles, alloy alloy wheels, wheels,LED LEDlights, lights,reversing reversingcamera camera £14,995 2017 Mazda2 Mazda2 1.5 1.5 GT GT Sport Sport 5DR 5DR blue, £14,995 ® 2016 Mazda3 2.0 SKYACTIV-G-SE-L 5DR black, 28k Bluetooth , LED rear lights, rear parking sensors £10,795 ® 2016 Mazda3 2.0 SKYACTIV-G-SE-L 5DR black, 28k Bluetooth , LED rear lights, rear parking sensors £10,795 2016 Sport Nav Nav Fastback Fastback 4dr 4dr Red, Red,5k, 5k,Bluetooth Bluetooth®®, ,reversing reversingcamera camera £13,995 2016 Mazda3 Mazda3 1.5 1.5 TD TD SKYACTIV-D SKYACTIV-D Sport £13,995 2016 Sport Nav Nav AWD, AWD, 5DR 5DR Auto, Auto,ceramic ceramicwhite, white,half halfleather, leather,heated heatedseats, seats,2k2k £18,295 £18,295 2016 Mazda Mazda CX-3 CX-3 1.5 1.5 TD TD SKYACTIV-D SKYACTIV-D Sport 2016 D Sport Sport Nav Nav AWD AWD 5DR 5DR sonic sonicsilver, silver,3k, 3k,black blackleather leatherupholstery, upholstery,heated heatedseats seats£16,995 £16,995 2016 Mazda Mazda CX-3 CX-3 1.5 1.5 TD TD SKYACTIV SKYACTIV D ® 2016 5DR Nav Nav red, red,10k, 10k,heated heatedseats, seats,parking parkingsensors, sensors,Bluetooth Bluetooth £14,695 ® 2016 Mazda Mazda CX-3 CX-3 1.5 1.5 TD TD SKYACTIV-D-SE-L SKYACTIV-D-SE-L 5DR £14,695 ®, privacy glass 2014 5DR Auto, Auto, black black 6k, 6k, alloy alloywheels, wheels,parking parkingsensors, sensors,Bluetooth Bluetooth £16,495 ®, privacy 2014 Mazda Mazda CX5 CX5 2.2 2.2 TD TD SE-L SE-L AWD AWD 5DR glass £16,495 ®, privacy glass 2017 Mazda CX-5-2.2 TD SE-L Nav 5DR grey, 12k alloy wheels, parking sensors, Bluetooth £17,695 ® 2017 Mazda CX-5-2.2 TD SE-L Nav 5DR grey, 12k alloy wheels, parking sensors, Bluetooth , privacy glass £17,695 2016 Nav 4DR 4DR blue blue 11k, 11k,parking parkingsensors, sensors,Bluetooth Bluetooth®®, ,privacy privacyglass glass £14,495 2016 Mazda6 Mazda6 2.2TD 2.2TD SKYACTIV-D-SE-L SKYACTIV-D-SE-L Nav £14,495 2017 4DR Nav, Nav, white, white, 7k, 7k,parking parkingsensors, sensors,alloy alloywheels, wheels,privacy privacyglass glass £15,995 2017 Mazda6 Mazda6 2.2 2.2 TD TD SKYACTIV-D-SE-L SKYACTIV-D-SE-L 4DR £15,995 2016 Sport Nav Nav Tourer Tourer 5DR 5DR Auto, Auto,black black15k, 15k,stone stoneleather leatherupholstery upholstery £17,995 2016 Mazda6 Mazda6 2.2 2.2 TD TD SKYACTIV-D SKYACTIV-D Sport £17,995 2017 D Sport Sport Nav Nav 4DR 4DR white white8k, 8k,black blackleather leatherupholstery, upholstery,reversing reversingcamera camera £17,895 2017 Mazda6 Mazda6 2.2 2.2 TD TD SKYACTIVSKYACTIV- D £17,895 2017 Nav Tourer Tourer 5DR 5DR Blue Blue7k, 7k,black blackleather leatherupholstery, upholstery,heated heatedseats seats £19,295 2017 Mazda6 Mazda6 2.2 2.2 TD TD SKYACTIV- D Sport Nav £19,295 2017 silver, 1k, 1k, black black leather leatherupholstery, upholstery,alloy alloywheels wheels £18,995 2017 Mazda Mazda MX-5 MX-5 1.5 1.5 Sport 2DR Metallic silver, £18,995

Please on any any of of the the cars carslisted listedor orto toarrange arrangeaatest testdrive˚. drive˚. Please contact contact us us for more information on

Ballyrobert Mazda Mazda Ballyrobert 1-3 Mallusk Mallusk Road, Road, Newtownabbey, Mallusk 1-3 Mallusk County Antrim Antrim BT36 BT36 4XS 028 9009 8179 County 8179 www.ballyrobert-mazda.co.uk www.ballyrobert-mazda.co.uk

Retailsales salesonly, only, T&C T&C apply. apply. **6.9% 6.9% APR APR Mazda Mazda Personal Part exchange Retail Personal Contract Contract Purchase. Purchase.At Atthe theend endofofthe theagreement agreementthere thereare are3 3options: options:(i)(i) Part exchange the vehicle. vehicle. (ii) (ii) Pay Pay the the Optional Optional Final Final Payment Payment to the the to own own the the vehicle vehicle or or (iii) (iii) Return Returnthe thevehicle. vehicle.Further Furthercharges chargesmay maybebemade madesubject subjecttoto the ° ° conditionor ormileage mileage of of the the vehicle. vehicle. Finance Finance subject RH1 1SR. condition subject to to status, status, 18s 18s or orover, over,Guarantee Guaranteemay maybe berequired. required.Mazda MazdaFinancial FinancialServices Services RH1 1SR.Test Test drivessubject subject to to applicant applicant status status and and availability. availability. Ballyrobert not drives Ballyrobert Service Service Station StationLimited, Limited,trading tradingas asBallyrobert BallyrobertMazda Mazdaisisa acredit creditbroker broker not lender for for this this financial financial promotion. promotion. We We can aa aalender can introduce introduce you you to to aa limited limited number numberof ofcarefully carefullyselected selectedfinance financeproviders providersand andmay mayreceive receive commission from from them them for for the the introduction. introduction. commission

MOTORING

Speed Down Save Lives In the UK speeding is still a major problem. It causes needless crashes, untold suffering and stops people living safe and healthy lives. Driving is unpredictable and if something unexpected happens on the road ahead – such as a child stepping out from between parked cars – it is a driver’s speed that will determine whether they can stop in time and, if they can’t stop, how hard they will hit. Yet newer vehicles are more powerful than ever before and reach high speeds quickly. Driving fast is glamorised and often encouraged by programmes and adverts that worship the cult of the car. We all live busy lives and there is a temptation to speed up in the hope of saving time, where in fact we could be costing lives. That is why we are encouraging everyone to Speed Down Save Lives for Road Safety Week 2017 (20-26 November).

We can all play our part in raising awareness about the dangers of driving too fast and this year’s campaign will focus on: • Speed causes deaths and serious injuries on our roads • Rural roads are not race tracks • 20mph is the only safe speed in heavily built-up areas used by pedestrians and cyclists • Going slow = stopping in time • Speed is scary and noisy. It stops communities being enjoyable places for children and families to walk, talk and play • Speed cameras work. They save lives • Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) is an important development that is likely to be fitted to all vehicles in the future

A few facts on why our theme is important: Breaking the speed limit or travelling too fast for conditions is recorded by police at crash scenes as a contributory factor in one in four (23%) fatal crashes in Great Britain. Drivers with one speeding violation annually are twice as likely to crash as those with none. A recent Brake survey found that four in 10 (40%) UK drivers admitted they sometimes drive at 30mph in 20mph zones. More than a quarter of drivers surveyed (26%) admitted to ‘regularly’ speeding in areas designed to keep children and other road users safe. Impact speed Driving faster not only lessens drivers’ chances of being able to stop in time to avoid hitting someone or something. It also means if they can’t stop in time, they will hit with

greater impact. The greater the impact, the greater the chances of causing serious injury or death. A vehicle travelling at 20mph (32km/h) would stop in time to avoid a child running out three car-lengths in front. The same vehicle travelling at 25mph (40km/h) would not be able to stop in time, and would hit the child at 18mph (29km/h). This is roughly the same impact as a child falling from an upstairs window. A pedestrian hit at 30mph has a very significant one in five chance of being killed. This rises significantly to a one in three chance if they are hit at 35mph.

www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk

COMPETITIONS

WIN A Family Ticket For Hansel & Gretel at The MAC

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One lucky family will win: * • Tickets for two adults and two children Join Hansel & Gretel in a modern version of their classic tale and you’ll discover why friendship, laughter and a big bag of sweets are essential to making Christmas time the happiest, twinkliest and funniest time of the year with loved ones.

* Prize is for the 6pm show on Friday 22nd December, 2017

THIS COMPETITION CAN ONLY BE ENTERED USING OUR In-touch AR App Closing date for competition: Tuesday 12th December, 2017

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