USPCA NEW BELFAST STORE

The USPCA’s newest charity store opens on 74 Cregagh Road, Belfast BT6 9EQ selling preloved and some brand-new stock thanks to donations from the public.

The opening makes it the USPCA’s fourth charity shop across the region, raising much-needed funds to help vulnerable animals

Rachel McGreevy, Charity Store Retail Manager said:

“We are delighted to start welcoming customers and donors to our stunning new shop. We have a fantastic range of new and preloved fashion and accessories for sustainable shopping. So, whether you’re looking for clothing, children’s toys, unique homeware or a one-of-a-kind item to elevate your wardrobe, we have something for you”

John Farrell, Chairperson of the USPCA, officially opened the Charity Store, alongside the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray. John commented:

“Every penny raised will support the vital work of our charity. Our customers and donors play an important role in ensuring we can go on being here for all animals, transforming their lives from unbearable cruelty and neglect”.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, said: “Stores like this make a real difference to our local high streets, providing important opportunities for volunteering and fundraising, and encouraging us to recycle and pass on items with a lot of life still left in them.

“I’m pleased to have helped open this latest branch today and to learn more about the valuable contribution USPCA’s stores make towards helping animals in need.”

The official opening was attended by a mixture of local politicians, residents, community groups, board, staff and volunteers of the charity. However, Clio a rescue dog from the USPCA ‘stole the show’ and served as an important reminder of the difference the USPCA makes transforming the lives of vulnerable animals.

Customers wanting to donate good quality secondhand fashion and accessories can drop items off instore where they can also sign-up for gift aid, ensuring their donations maximise the amount that can be raised through their sales.

The new shop manager will also be on hand to talk to people interested in volunteering which also includes work experience for people aged 16 and over.

Volunteering can help provide people with an introduction to working in retail, as well as offering other life and employment skills. The shop would like to hear from interested individuals who can spare a few volunteer hours a week. A full induction and training will be given, and the charity are open to all regardless of prior experience.

For further information on volunteering and more visit the USPCA website https://www.uspca.co.uk/charity-store-volunteer

All roads lead to The Outing Valentine’s weekend to find Friends & Friendship or both?

Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community will descend on County Clare Valentine’s weekend (February 14th-16th) for The Outing Festival 2025. It’s never too early to start finding that new someone and lots of fun.....

A new twist on an old tradition The world’s only LGTBQ+ matchmaking arts festival returns to The Inn at Dromoland in Newmarket-on-Fergus on the grounds of Dromoland Castle Co. Clare with a fusion of music, comedy, ceilí bands, queer arts, and the best of Irish and international performers, drag artists and DJs.

Organised in conjunction with The Outing Queer Arts Collective with support from Fáilte Ireland, working alongside Limerick Pride, and Quare Clare, the award-winning festival is being hosted by “The Queen of Matchmaking” Eddie McGuinness with Paul Ryder & Victoria’s Secret.

Mr McGuinness, the Festival Director of The Outing, commented, “People have travelled from all over the world to our festival in previous years to enjoy pop-up clubs, drag performances, comedy, live music, arts, literary and film festivals and interactive events.”

He continued, “Matchmaking plays a huge part in the festival. With more than a hundred relationships and two marriages, I have helped play a part in putting together our event in recent years. The Outing also acts as a celebration of the LGTBQ+ community, so whether you’re single or taken gay, trans, straight or bi, all are welcome to this fun weekend.”

The Outing organisers are also working with Quare Clare Pride and Limerick Pride to submit a bid to bring EuroPride to Limerick, Clare and the Mid-West Region in 2028, which would mark the first time that the pan-European international event has been held in the island of Ireland. Attracting over 100,000 plus people from all over the world annually, EuroPride is hosted by a different European city each year.

The Outing Festival 2025 Valentine’s Weekend 14th-16th February 2025 occurs at The Inn at Dromoland, Newmarket-On-Fergus, County Clare. Visit www.theouting.ie for ticket and event details