North West Local Women Magazine February 2021

YOUR BESTSELLING LOCAL MAGAZINE ONLY

£1 NORTH COAST

FEBRUARY

2021

INSPIRED BY IVY: BALLYMENA MUM

SUPPO R YOUR L T OCAL TRADE ONLINE RS DU LOCKD RING OWN

ERINN KERR

EMBARKS ON A NEW BUSINESS Congratulations to the

COLERAINE SPIN QUEENS

COVER GIRL:

who raised £13K for the Air Ambulance

LAURA CONNOR

Love In Lockdown

WEDDING SPECIAL

.... featuring weddings from Cullybackey, Bellaghy and Randalstown TM

from Coleraine with her daughter

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02

AUSTRALIA'S MOST WANTED SEE OUR REVIEW OF THIS WINE ON PAGE 101

CHARDONNAY

SHIRAZ

The fruit for the Kelly’s Patch Chardonnay was sourced from the Goulburn Valley on the vineyards neighbouring the winery.

This region has long, warm sunny days and mild evening temperatures which are perfect for the growing of good quality Chardonnay. The grapes were harvested during the cool of the night to maintain fruit freshness and gently pressed to minimise phenolic characters. The wine was fermented in various parcels, with a small portion receiving careful oak treatment, with extended lees contact to build structure yet retain good fruit balance.

The grapes for this Shiraz were picked and crushed during the cool of night, thus ensuring the retention of varietal character, while modern winemaking techniques were employed throughout, all of which help to create the signature McPherson style. Fermentation took place in sweeping arm red fermenters, giving the wine a denser, richer colour and allowing for gentle flavour extraction. Softer tannins are also a result of this process, an important feature of the McPherson Shiraz style. Careful attention was also paid to the oak selection for the Shiraz. This wine was aged on American oak for approximately 8 months, giving the wine a noticeable, but not an excessive oak influence. The inclusion of some central Victorian fruit into the blend has boosted both the colour.

MERLOT

The grapes for this Merlot were picked and crushed during the cool of night, thus ensuring the retention of varietal character, while modern winemaking techniques were employed throughout. Much of Merlot’s popularity is derived from its juicy flavours, and mellow mouth feel. Therefore, this wine was fermented in rotary fermenters, which helped bring out the wonderful colour and flavours, but ensured that the tannins were soft and fine. Minimal oak handling was also an important feature inclusion of the winemaking allowing for the fruit to be the primary feature of this wine. The of some central Victorian fruit in the blend has further intensified both the colour and flavour, creating a wine of increased complexity and quality.

KELLY’S GANG SHIRAZ

Kelly’s Gang Shiraz is bold and full of flavour.

The nose displays sweet plums, cassis, chocolate and spice. The exuberant palate delivers ripe berry fruit along with a touch of pepper and spice. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 3-4 years. Enjoy with pizza, pasta or your favourite BBQ dish.

KELLY’S GANG SAUVIGNON BLANC

Kelly’s Gang Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and refreshing. The nose displays lifted passionfruit and citrus notes. The fruit forward palate delivers ripe fruit flavours balanced by some lovely crisp acidity on the finish. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 2-3 years. Enjoy with salads or your favourite seafood dish.

PINOT GRIGIO

This wine is made from a blend of fruit grown in the Goulburn Valley and South East Australia from a combination of our own vineyards and our contract growers. Following crushing of the grapes during the cool of the night, the Pinot Grigio juice is cold settled and racked clean ready for fermentation. An aromatic yeast was used for inoculation and the juice is cold fermented in stainless steel tanks. The resulting wine is fresh and vibrant displaying applesand pears with floral spicy notes. The palate is clean, displaying green crunchy fruit with a crisp long finish.

SAUVIGNON BLANC

This wine is made from a blend of fruit grown in the Goulburn Valley Eastern Australia from our own vineyards. Following delivery and crushing of the grapes during the cool of the night, the Sauvignon Blanc juice was cold settled and racked.

An aromatic yeast was used for inocculation and this parcel was cool fermented for 7 days. The resulting wine is fresh and vibrant showing lovely tropical fruit flavours with a hint of typical herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc characters.

KELLY’S GANG The Last Word

At Kelly’s Patch we are increasing the outlets where you can buy our wines daily.

At present you can purchase at Tesco’s, Sainsbury’s and Chill off licence.

Check www.kellyspatch.com new outlets.

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FALL IN LOVE WITH A NEW YOU

Co Antrim Slimming World members are losing weight together during lockdown.

Slimmers from Co Antrim have made a vow to themselves that through this lockdown they will slim down!

With more than 70% of the population gaining on average 10lbs each during the first lockdown, this time with the help, support and motivation of each other, the Co Antrim members have decided that things will be different!

Judith Gibson one of the consultants in the area says: “The last lockdown was so tough for people. Their weight gain in turn started to affect their mood, their health and their mental health too. I know how important it is to look after each other. My role as a consultant means that I have the privilege of supporting members to lose weight and improve their health and wellbeing.”

Slimming World has been supporting members virtually in online weekly groups after the lockdown closed all of the organisation’s community groups.

Elizabeth Cooke commented: “Our commitment to our members is that we will be there for them 52 weeks of the year and not even a lockdown will stop us. Our virtual service means that we still have the same great support package to make sure that our commitment is fulfilled.”

Consultant Will Gibson says: “I’m delighted to be together with my members! Our virtual groups have been a vital lifeline of support and I’m so, so proud of how my members have been there for each other through these difficult months and continued to lose weight and get more active.”

Lynn Hutchinson says: “The health and safety of members has been top priority and they now have the best service from the comfort of their own homes.”

Daniel O’Neill, who is a consultant and is also a member himself, says: “I want anyone who’s worrying about their weight or health – especially if they’ve put on a few extra pounds during lockdown – to know that there will be absolutely no judgement at a Slimming World group.”

Sinead Orr continues: “You will only ever get lots of understanding and a very warm welcome.”

Kathleen Barclay says: “At Slimming World losing weight isn’t about going hungry – our eating plan is extra easy, very delicious and super generous and that’s why members love food optimising.”

Reece Bradley comments: “When it comes to exercise what I love most is that just moving a little bit more than I did the day before means it is getting me more active.

Every step extra that I am doing counts, for me it doesn’t mean running marathons – unless you want to, of course!”

Charlene McCrory added: “Our groups are hubs of recipe-swapping, idea-sharing and problem-solving activity.”

As a consultant herself Patricia says: “Through our weekly sessions, you’ll discover how to identify the stoppers and potential pitfalls that could send you off track – or that have maybe prevented you from reaching your weight-loss goals in the past – and learn to develop strategies to overcome them.”

“The new healthy habits you’ll discover will soon become habits of a lifetime and there really is no better time to start afresh when it comes to developing new lifelong healthy habits around food and activity,” says Laura McBride.

“Many of the members of my groups have seen, when you lose weight, you’re already doing one of the very best things you can to future-proof your health,” says Carol Noble.

“Together the groups have lost a staggering 780lbs so far in January, with the average new member losing 5lbs in the first week,” says Susan Kirkpatrick. “Which is just incredible.”

If you would love so more information on falling in love with food optimising and our joining offers and our groups simply log on to www.slimmingworld.co.uk/blog/discover-keeping-you-safe/

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Angela Hegarty, Manager of Bannvale Credit Union said: “We offer great value loans at the standard rate APR of 12.68% or we can offer large loans of up to £25000 above

“So, whether your plans include moving home, building an extension, overhauling the kitchen, laying new carpets, or just giving your home a new lick of paint, talk to us here at Bannvale Credit Union. You’ll find we are happy to provide flexible loans of any size to suit your grand design plans!”

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6 | Local Women Magazine

IMAGINE MORE

Welcome, So, here we are … still in our pyjamas!

I decided to make an effort for my editor’s letter picture this month by washing my hair and putting on new pyjamas – how times have changed!

Go on, admit it – you’ve had days recently when you took your nighttime pyjamas off, showered and then changed straight into a fresh new pair of ‘day jammies!’

And sure, why not? The positive way in which things have been going recently with the vaccination programme rollout and with the falling number of cases of COVID-19, there will be a way out of this lockdown before too long.

Which of course means we go back to normal life. I don’t know about you, but the thought of that excites me and alarms me in equal measures. I’m excited because I want to get (need) my roots done, I want to meet my friends and maybe have the odd cocktail or seven. But then part of me is so used to being in the house that I think I have forgotten what to do in the real world.

I’m pretty certain I can’t walk in heels anymore, I have no clothes apart from pyjamas and gym clothes and I can’t remember the last time I was awake after 10pm. The transition period back to normality is going to be hard!

We’ve been getting into the mood for romance here at Local Women – just in time for Valentine’s Day (when once again it will be clean pyjamas and a takeaway pizza!). We’ve enjoyed seeing your wedding pictures arriving on our desks again. For a while there weren’t too many people getting married because of the ever-changing restrictions. The pandemic has wreaked havoc with your arrangements - but slowly we have seen more of you going ahead with your weddings. It’s so lovely to see how you have adapted your plans and made the most of the small numbers allowed. We have weddings from across Northern Ireland in the magazine this month and each couple has a lovely story to tell about finally tying the knot after numerous setbacks. It will be a great story to tell your kids in years to come.

Don’t forget, if you want to share your wedding with Local Women readers, just get in touch at editor@localwomensnews. com.We print all weddings at no cost, and as we are now available online, your relatives in America who couldn’t make it will be able to see your pictures!

By the time we meet again the evenings will be longer, the mornings will be brighter, and we should have a clearer picture of the end of lockdown.

Until then, keep on snuggling up in your jammies and watching Netflix.

Stay safe and look after yourselves.

Love,

MANAGING EDITOR: KIM KELLY editor@localwomensnews.com DESIGNER: AIDAN NELIS design@localwomensnews.com SALES: salesmid@localwomensnews.com ACCOUNTS: accounts@localwomensnews.com 8 | Local Women Magazine

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w www.localwomenmagazine.com The publisher does not guarantee the accuracy of statements by contributors or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any statement that they may express in this publication. The publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of a product, service or promotional event.

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“Enjoy your perfect baby” Coleraine’s Laura Connor sends a special message of love to other mums of children with Down syndrome.

Pictures by Alexandra Barfoot

“W

ithout Olivia Hope our world would be very boring,” explains Coleraine mum Laura Connor.

And it’s easy to see what she means.

Four-year-old Olivia is simply a little bundle of loveliness! Cute, funny, and so energetic – Olivia is the centre of the Connor household.

Adored by her big brother Charlie, 10 and big sister Molly, 8, from the minute Olivia wakes up in the morning, she is a whirlwind of smiles and laughs.

Laura wants to reach out to anyone reading this today who is expecting a child with Down syndrome or who is already a parent.

ƒ The Connor family

“Any mummy who finds out they are pregnant and is told it is Down syndrome, I would say don’t ever give up. Don’t think it is a bad thing. It’s not.

“I have a perfect little girl who has a permanent smile on her face. I get around 3,000 hugs a day! Olivia is amazing and our family is all the better for having her.

She is the centre of our world. Enjoy your perfect baby.”

Born with a serious heart condition which required open heart surgery in London three years ago, Olivia is a ‘miracle’ child who defied all the odds and came along at a time when Laura was still grieving the tragic death of her brother Christopher in December 2011.

10 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Laura with daughters Molly (8) and Olivia (4)

What makes Olivia so special is the fact that Laura was told during her pregnancy that the little baby girl she was carrying would probably never survive and was advised to have a termination.

But Laura ignored the advice because she knew in her heart that her baby was going to survive. And after losing her brother so tragically she had no intention in giving up on her daughter.

In fact, the medical advice only made her more determined to push on with her pregnancy and with the support of her fiancé David, she carried on undeterred.

Laura explains: “I was 11 weeks pregnant and having my first scan when the nurse noticed the baby had a Cystic Hygroma which is an abnormal growth that usually appears on baby’s neck or head.

“I was transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital for a further scan and told there wasn’t much chance of survival. When I was 12 and a half weeks pregnant, I had to get a CVS for further tests. This has risk of miscarriage and I was told again that the baby wouldn’t make it.

“After waiting what felt like forever, I got a call to say I needed to go straight to the Royal for an amniocentesis test which has another high risk of losing the baby.

“The test results were given to me over the phone. I was sitting in a cafe on my own when I got the call to say my baby was a little girl and the Down syndrome survival rate was low. I was more or less told I should terminate my pregnancy.

“I knew I had a scary journey ahead.”

For her entire pregnancy Laura travelled every week to the Royal in Belfast from her home in Coleraine for scans where she was told more and more bad news about the baby she was carrying, but she said she never gave up hope.

ƒ Laura with fiancé David and children Charlie (10), Molly (8) and Olivia (4)

ƒ Laura with Olivia

“She’s doing fantastic although she does have lots of medical issues and she does get sick.”

Olivia’s progress is remarkable. She walked at one year old, she attends nursery, she uses sign language and every day she learns more and more.

Before the pandemic hit causing closures, Olivia attended music therapy, the toy library, her sign language class and a local hospital for check-ups.

Laura says: “She so clever Whenever I mention Chris to Olivia, take down his photograph to show her or bring her to his grave, she always signs the word ‘star’. That’s how she sees him, a star looking down.

“She’s unbelievable really, a wee fighter who has defied the odds. And she’s so headstrong and determined. If Olivia doesn’t want to do something, she won’t do it. But At 38 weeks Laura delivered her beautiful she’ll keep on smiling, like she always does.” baby girl weighing 6lbs 10oz.

She has brought so much happiness into “My little girl was ready to start her our lives. I don’t really go out anymore. I’d be adventure into the world,” says Laura. worried that the one night I went out, she’d “Olivia spent most of her first year in take sick and end up in hospital. And as a and out of hospital. The week of her first result, I don’t see as much of my friends as I birthday, her daddy and I flew to London used to. But that’s okay, because Olivia will for her heart surgery. always come first.

During the scans she watched her little girl moving on the screen and says she could see how active she was, and it gave her renewed “Olivia had an AVSD repair and has done “After everything I was told about her, she hope that things would work out - even when she discovered her baby would need open amazingly. She really is a wee miracle,” is all the more special to me and I love being with her.”

Laura says. heart surgery.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL

Limavady Local Women Magazine | 11

“IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO CARE FOR PATIENTS”

HOSPITAL AND REGISTERED MANAGER AT NORTH WEST INDEPENDENT HOSPITAL IN BALLYKELLY, FINOLA CARMICHAEL FROM GREYSTEEL, TELLS LOCAL WOMEN ABOUT HER COMMITMENT TO CARING.

Pictures by Gerard Gormley

WHAT CAREER PATH DID YOU FOLLOW?

Even as a little girl Finola Carmichael seemed destined for a career in nursing.

After obtaining my O Levels, I attended college and completed an OND in Business Studies. I always thought that as a nurse you needed to have an understanding of other professions. I completed my training in 1984, and at that time, it was common practice for you to remain on the ward where you had completed your management placement. So, I remained on the Ear, Nose and Throat ward, for six months, and then I had the opportunity to transfer to the Intensive Care Unit.

This was an amazing experience, sometimes sad, where you were supporting parents on the death of children, or relatives on the death of their loved ones. My heart goes out to all the staff working in these units during this pandemic as it is a stressful environment in normal circumstance. I then relocated to Jersey, where I continued to develop skills and worked within a Medical Unit and I became a Ward Sister. This was an exciting time for me, and I met my partner and we moved back to Derry in 1992.

As a child and the eldest of six children, Finola always took on the responsibility of caring for her siblings and enjoyed looking after them.

And now as she proudly celebrates almost 40 years in nursing, the Greysteel woman who is the Hospital and Registered Manager at North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly, looks back with pride on her career that has seen her working in hospitals across the UK after qualifying in 1984.

Originally from Staffordshire, but brought up

by Irish parents, as a child Finola, 60, dreamed of working at The Royal Victoria Hospital which was near her dad’s childhood home.

So keen was she to be a nurse that she even wrote to the Royal College of Nursing to ask what she had to do to fulfil her dream.

Once qualified Finola took up a post within the NHS before eventually moving to the North West Independent Hospital where she has worked since 1996.

Finola has thoroughly enjoyed her nursing career and is proud to have given the highest level of care to her patients throughout the years and in particular during the last year when we have been in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finola says: “There is nothing better than knowing that we have delivered excellent care and the patient has had a great experience. It lets us know what we are doing right. It gives me great job satisfaction.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A NURSE? My dad was a proud Belfast man, and I am told that I loved him talking about The Royal Victoria Hospital, close to where he was brought up, and I said: “I would love to work there when I become a nurse.” Unfortunately, this did not happen, but I also wrote a letter to the RCN at a young age to ask what I needed to do to become a nurse. Definitely keen!

My mum worked as a carer, and I worked as a nursing auxiliary before I went to college, to see if I was capable of being a nurse. I had an amazing Ward Sister who spent time with me and taught me the basics of excellent care.

She had been a Ward Sister for years and she held all her patients in the highest regard, and always said that it was a privilege to be able to care for someone.

This remains close to my heart, particularly in these difficult times.

I worked in Altnagelvin Hospital on the Infant Unit.

I met some great staff - Bernie, Nuala, Georgie, Vera- these were great characters, and I suppose I gathered up some of the ‘Derry lingo.’ I am sure they were tortured by all the questions I asked!

I then had the opportunity to work in Coronary Care Unit, with Sr Evelyn Smyth, Veronica Brown, Geraldine Boggs, to mention but a few.

The welcoming experience I received in Altnagelvin was amazing, and I have fond memories of all the staff I met and learned from.

WHEN DID YOU COME TO WORK AT NWIH? Unfortunately, from 1992 to 1996 there were no permanent jobs in Altnagelvin, so I was on a temporary contract as were half my colleagues. My partner and I decided we wanted to buy a house, a big decision for two people who had lived in rented accommodation most of their working life, but you had to have a permanent contract.

So, a job was advertised in Rush Hall Nursing Home and I applied, but when they saw my CV, they asked if I was happy to attend an interview for NWIH. I said ‘yes’ and I underwent two interviews, with Consultant Mr Brian Dane, and Mrs E Dallas and then I met Dr C Stewart for further scrutiny. I was offered the job.

I commenced my role here as a Ward Sister in April 1996, I then moved into the post of Hospital and Registered Manager in 2017.

HOW DOES YOUR JOB AT NWIH DIFFER TO YOUR ROLE WITHIN THE NHS? I feel that as a nurse the patient must always be your focus and that you deliver the care to the highest standard, so that would remain the same here as in the NHS. There is such a variety of surgery here that it helps to develop your skills in all areas.

I feel it is a very welcoming unit and I remain excited about what we are doing and how we are moving forward to develop processes that will modernise the hospital. I am lucky to be directly involved in those decisions being made, which is very satisfying.

WHAT HAVE YOUR EXPERIENCES BEEN WORKING DURING THE PANDEMIC? We were able to support the NHS, by completing Red Flag surgery. This has been especially poignant for staff on the ward, who felt they were making a difference.

I worked closely with staff from the HSCB, Consultants, the Trusts, but particularly the WHSCT to ensure that we had everything in place for the patient’s journey, and I must say that each person had the patient at the centre of that focus.

There was lot of behind the scenes work to ensure that PPE delivery, mask fit testing, training, extra cleaning regimes, obtaining equipment for specialist surgery, screening processes and risk assessments were in place. This was a small part of the whole management of the contract. We were also able to offer our outpatient unit to facilitate Head & Neck Services, ENT, and eye injections.

We all worked to together to limit the waiting time for these critical patients.

We continue to complete work for the NHS to help to alleviate the overstretched health service.

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“IVY IS MY INSPIRATION” When Ballymena mum Erinn Kerr’s newborn baby Ivy was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, life changed forever. Putting her career at the BBC on hold, Erinn embarked on a new business that allows her to stay at home with her daughter.

Here Erinn tells Local Women about how little Ivy inspired her new career.

“When I look back now on the day that competitive it is and how lucky I was to be I left work to go on maternity leave, I in my position. sometimes get upset.

I loved my job, I made videos for the There I was, sitting at my desk at the BBC news website, spending my days driving in Belfast while my colleagues presented around Northern Ireland, going (gasp) into me with presents and little cookies shaped people’s homes, shaking their hands and helping them tell their stories. like babies and prams.

ƒ Erinn and Ivy

We went out for lunch to say ‘goodbye-for- I was excited to be a mother, but no way now.’ A huge table of us piled into Made In was that all I would be.

Belfast one rainy September day.

The reason looking back on this day We talked about what work would be like sometimes upsets me, is that in that when I came back, who we thought would moment I honestly had no idea what was be doing what job and where our careers ahead of me. might go.

It was one of the last days in which I could imagine my perfectly healthy baby and I was completely convinced I would be my seamless return to work in a world that returning to work full-time, four days a looked just like the one I had left. week at the very least.

I wanted to keep pushing at the career I’d Ivy was born on September 25, 2019, three days after her due date and following a worked so hard to build.

22-hour labour.

Anyone who works in the media, especially in Northern Ireland, knows how I was lucky to have the water birth I dreamed of and she came kicking and screaming into life like every new mum hopes their child will.

to work following what was the roughest night so far.

I set off at the crack of dawn to walk around the Ecos Park in Ballymena to get

I was elated, in love and completely ill- some fresh air, settle my head and finally get Ivy over to sleep. prepared for the sleepless nights ahead.

Ivy, like many newborns, didn’t want to I wondered how much longer this would sleep in her Moses basket. She just wanted go on and how I would cope. to feed what felt like constantly.

Just as I returned home my phone rang. I Two weeks later my husband went back jumped to answer it in case it woke the baby.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL 16 | Local Women Magazine

Coleraine

It was the health visitor asking if she could come over, even though we didn’t have a visit planned.

Within an hour she had put me on the phone to a consultant at the Royal, who told me that according to the heel prick test, Ivy probably had Cystic Fibrosis.

When the health visitor left, I looked in on Ivy, who was still sleeping peacefully and all I could think was: “You keep me up for as many more nights as you want, whatever you need I will be here.”

I suppose that’s when things started to change. All that mattered was Ivy and her health.

As time went on and we got used to our new regime: hospital appointments, medicines several times a day and physio, I started to doubt if I would ever be able to go back to work.

ƒ Ivy and Gold

state of worry - nothing like what I had pictured when I said goodbye to my colleagues back in September.

Around this time, I also started to make little bracelets for myself and some of my ‘mummy friends’ who I had met during my pregnancy.

There was just one positive - things with Ivy&Gold were at the stage where I was pretty sure I could make enough to support myself.

I used gold-filled beads and little letters to spell out kid’s names for mums to wear.

So, I made the decision to step away from my career, at least for a while, to focus on Ivy and my business.

They were so well received that before I knew it, I was being encouraged to start selling outside of my little bubble.

In March, just before the pandemic really hit, I set up an Instagram page - Ivy&Gold was born.

During the first wave of Covid-19 we were told to shield because of Ivy’s condition.

That meant not even going to the shop or walking anywhere where we might be close to other people.

It was incredibly isolating, as it was for so many others. I had a five-month-old who was extremely vulnerable, and it was scary.

If you follow Ivy&Gold on Instagram, you’ll know I never stop saying thank you and how grateful I am for the support and love I’ve been shown, but I really do mean it.

Without this little business I honestly don’t know what I would have done. Throughout shielding it was such a welcome distraction to me. It gave me something positive to focus on and kept my hands and mind ƒ Erinn and Ivy busy at a time when things could have I honestly had no idea that it would take been so dark. off in the way it has.

After a really successful Christmas period I As the summer passed and it came time know I have something special going and for me to go back to work, it was clear to I’m so excited for everything that 2021 has me that I couldn’t manage it. in store.

My biggest fear was that she would become unwell and that there would be I had got so used to staying at home with Ivy Ivy’s health is, and always will be, my main and had barely left her side in her first year. concern, but I am so happy to have the no beds or doctors available to help her.

There wasn’t much else for me to do other My maternity leave hadn’t been all baby opportunity to grow a business alongside than throw myself into my little business classes and coffee dates as I had hoped. being her mum.” during her nap times and after she went It was staying at home, seeing none of my to bed at night. friends or family and living in a constant

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL

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Ballymoney Local Women Magazine | 17

Joanna’s absolutely fabulous visit to Derry Actress Joanna Lumley pays a visit to the city and reveals she’s a big fan of Derry Girls.

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By Maureen Coleman

ctress Joanna Lumley has revealed she is a huge fan of Lisa McGee’s hit television comedy Derry Girls.

The actress and presenter described the Channel 4

sitcom as ‘extraordinarily popular, incredibly funny and poignant’ ahead of the recent airing of her new programme, Joanna Lumley’s Home Sweet Home – Travels in My Own Land.

After a lifetime of travels that have taken her across the globe, Joanna has made her most personal journey yet, exploring different parts of the UK. Earlier this month, the former Bond girl and star of Ab Fab, paid a visit to the Maiden City, where she hung out with Derry Girls actress Saoirse-Monica Jackson and visited some of her favourite haunts.

Pictured Joanna Lumley (right) to Derry to meet actress Saoirse-Monica Jackson (left) from the hit TV series “The Derry Girls.

Below: Pictured Joanna Lumley (left) in Derry, Northern Island visits a mural tribute to Richard Moore (right) who was blinded after being shot by a rubber bullet when he was just ten-years-old

Joanna has been in Derry before, meeting with

Speaking ahead of the Derry episode broadcast, “The temptation was to visit every abbey Joanna said: “It was a privilege to walk with Richard and cathedral, but usually people can do that Over the years the pair have become friends and Moore, the Great Derry Lama. themselves, so we wanted to see things people Joanna, who described him as an inspiration, was “He is somebody who I have known and admired don’t usually see.” delighted to get back to the city to meet him again. for some time. He was blinded when he was only 10 Over the three episodes, Joanna also visits years old, by a rubber bullet, during the Troubles, Manchester, Whitby, St Michael’s Mount, the and he’s gone on to make a huge success of his life. Lake District and the Highlands of Scotland, “He’s set up a thing called Children in Crossfire, retracing old steps, meeting inspiring people, which is a charity which looks after children who and exploring the wonders of the country she have been injured in wartime, so the people you calls home.

Richard Moore from the charity Children in Crossfire.

meet, you kind of buckle them against your heart.”

Explaining how the show was made during Joanna said that she loved the whole of Northern lockdown, Joanna said: “I’ve got to say, we were Ireland and Ireland, in general, and that she was being chased, it was like surfing in the front of a sorry she had been unable to travel to the South due wave because COVID-19 was coming behind us all the time. to Covid-19 restrictions.

“We were so careful, we were tested, tested, “There were so many places we didn’t go,” she tested and everywhere we went we followed all the explained. “You could go around these islands and nations and make 26 episodes. Everywhere has regulations. But we were just in the nick of time, you couldn’t do it now. fascinating and beautiful things.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL 20 | Local Women Magazine

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While we have time on our hands during lockdown, the design experts at Houston Homewares show us how to make a mood board to create the perfect interiors.

Once again most of us are spending more time at home and it’s only natural that those rooms that are not quite working for us are getting even more of our attention.

Anyone who has tackled an interior design project over the last year will know it’s difficult to get things done. Whether it’s finding tradespeople, waiting much longer than normal for furniture or having the kids running around while the decorators are in, it’s been a challenging time.

There might have only been a very small window of opportunity for shopping last year, but the home interiors industry saw higher demand than ever before.

With another lockdown and the prospects of 2021 summer holidays looking less likely by the day, it’s set to be another year filled with DIY and interior projects.

While it may be tempting to ‘impulse buy’ online out of lockdown boredom, why not use this time to really plan ahead? Create mood boards, set out a budget and list your priorities.

If you have children who have been missing out on creative art projects, getting them involved could be a fun family activity. Getting input from everyone who uses the room is also a good idea as it can help inform decisions on layout and usability of the space.

There are some fantastic inspirational interiors on apps like Pinterest, Houzz and Instagram, use these to find the style you like and begin looking for products that will create this style in your home.

Whether you are planning on starting a project imminently or daydreaming of that lottery win, an interiors mood board is a great way of getting your ideas out of your head and onto paper (or screen). The purpose of a mood board is to help explore ideas and figure out the general style, colour scheme and overall feel of a room. Mood boards are an interior designer’s go-to tool for the initial planning phase of a space.

It’s a means of visually communicating ideas for a design project. They let you put all your ideas in one place. Then take a step back to see what works together and what doesn’t to inform your design direction and avoid potentially costly mistakes when the project begins.

When I’m starting a mood board, I generally follow the following order: •

Fixed decor: A good starting point is to begin with the walls and work your way out. Consider paint colours, wall coverings, curtain/blinds, and fabrics.

•

Architectural fixtures like wall panelling, fireplace etc and flooring.

•

Primary furniture items - sofas, dining tables, and beds. Depending on the function of the room, these items are the most used and define the space. It’s always a good idea to get these planned early. Depending on the market level of furniture you want for your project, the lead times for delivery will vary.

The lower end of the market will generally have bulk availability, whereas higher end items that are not mass produced will generally need to be ordered specially or custom made.

•

Secondary furniture, side tables, consoles, credenzas etc. While these pieces do serve a function, they are more decorative than functional. Again, depending on the market level, the availability and affordability of these items will vary.

Prioritise which items you want to invest in!

•

Wall decor: Artwork, mirrors and photographs. Remember not every wall needs to be filled, create a good balance and plan ahead with placement of wall decor. All elements in a room should flow but you don’t need to obsess over exactly matching colours in artwork.

•

Lighting: lighting should never be an afterthought. Having multiple light sources is a good way to create ambience in a space. For example, in a living room the primary lighting source would be a central ceiling light, secondary lighting sources would be your table and floor lamps and tertiary lighting like wall sconces, picture lights or strip backlighting.

•

Accessories: the finishing touches are what brings a room together, and interior styling is a skill on its own. When I’m putting together mood boards for clients, I usually include a few accessories to give an idea of the style.

Though with these items the mood board can be more flexible. Accessorising is the fun part and doesn’t necessarily need to be planned in advance. So, spend some time during this lockdown planning and be ready to hit the ground running when the shops re-open.

You don’t need to have all of your ideas completely set in stone before you begin. It’s very much trial and error and process of elimination but having general ideas ahead of time will provide guidance for your choices as you progress.

BRINGING OUR HISTORY TO LIFE A

Derry author Jane Buckley spent the first lockdown writing an historical novel chronicling The Troubles.

Derry author is on a mission to educate younger generations about The Troubles through her self-published series.

Jane Buckley, who was born in the Bogside and grew up in Shantallow, released the first instalment of the Stones Corner series earlier this month.

First-time author Jane is self-publishing after her manuscript was turned down by agents ‘wary’ of the subject matter.

Jane is determined to educate people about The Troubles with her moving historical fiction.

‘Stones Corner: Turmoil’ is part one of the series, portraying life in the city in the 1970s.

Jane began writing her first novel in 2017 but put the manuscript away in a drawer for a couple of years.

Jane used the lockdown period to finish the book – which she called ‘Stones Corner: Turmoil’ – and describes the writing experience as her ‘salvation’ during the pandemic.

She says she has been an avid reader all her life and if the opportunity had existed when she was younger, she would have loved to become a journalist.

Now living just outside Derry, she is married to John and has two daughters Cassie who lives in Oxford and Maggie who lives in Auckland, New Zealand with grandchildren Charlie and Alba.

As ‘factional’ books, the Stones Corner series cover a great deal of issues encountered at that time by both sides of the sectarian divide including conflict, cruelty, divided loyalties, strong family ties, gallows humour and star-crossed lovers.

The first book – ‘Stones Corner: Turmoil’ is about a Catholic girl from the Bogside and the Protestant heir to a big local employer. In her youthful innocence, Caitlin believes their love can overcome the triple obstacles of politics, class and faith.

ƒ Jane Buckley Meanwhile, Robert, newly recruited to British undercover forces, is closing in on a terrorist strike in the heart of the city centre.

Says Jane: “Living in The City of Derry in the 70s wasn’t easy for any of us. It didn’t get much better as an Irishwoman living in London in the 80s and 90s.

One of my greatest frustrations was the lack of understanding by the people I met about why The Troubles began or continued over the decades.

Some were particularly biased in their views, by what they heard or read in the media - and still are. For example, when sending my manuscript to an agent in London, he immediately wrote back

‘Unfortunately, this is not for me.

and non-fiction about The Troubles in Northern Ireland. And I still am. So, I’m not the right agent for Stones Corner.’

“And he wasn’t the only one. Dare I say it? This is the reason I am self-publishing.

“Surprisingly, few of our younger generation know the facts either. Therefore, I want Stones Corner to educate the truth through historically based fiction. I hope they read and learn what it was like to live through those difficult days from both sides of the divide, without bias.”

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL 24 | Local Women Magazine

Commercially

speaking I’ve always been wary of books both fiction

Purchase Stones Corner: Turmoil at www.janebuckleywrites.com Find Jane on Instagram @janebuckley_writes

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HURT – OFFERING SUPPORT FOR ADDICTION

‘Have Your Tomorrows’ (HURT) is a treatment centre offering a confidential and non-judgemental approach to those suffering from addiction.

In recent years, statistics are showing that more people than ever before are facing the challenge of poor mental health. Many may find themselves turning to drugs and alcohol as a distraction or attempt to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, inevitably, the misuse of substances will only cause further decline in both mental and physical health. The prevalence of addiction within our community is no secret, and it is an issue that continues to negatively affect the lives of many.

Someone who knows only too well, the devastating impact that addiction can have is local woman, Sadie O Reilly. Sadie experienced the tragic death of her son Tony in 1999, following a long battle with drug addiction. Sadie felt passionately that Tony’s death could have been prevented, if only there has been support available to him at that time.

Determined that no mother or family should have to suffer the “senseless” loss of a loved one through drug addiction, Sadie founded HURT (Have Your Tomorrows) in 2002 dedicated to the memory of her son, Tony.

HURT’s treatment centre has since been offering a confidential; non-judgmental approach to helping those affected by dependency and addiction. The charity also delivers preventative educational programmes within local schools, youth clubs and community-based initiatives.

HURT’s support services are open not only to individuals seeking support for drug or alcohol addiction, but also to family members of those living with dependency. If you or someone you know is currently affected by addiction, HURT

ENROLMENT IS NOW OPEN FOR THE FOLLOWING COURSES: Level 5 Diploma in Substance Misuse Theory & Interventions (SMTI) Approved at specialist training level by the National Counselling Society.

staff and volunteers are available to help. The charity is still offering addiction and mental health support services in the Derry/Strabane district council area. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, usual face to face services have been suspended. Instead, HURT now offers remote support services and counselling via zoom or telephone.

For more information or to arrange an appointment, call the office on 02871369696. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4pm.

This course looks at the theory and practice of working with people presenting with substance misuse issues.

Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) T.Q.U.K. Accredited This popular course sets the Gold Standard in training as a trainer. It is designed for those who would like to work towards a teaching or training qualification or to get onto higher qualifications in teaching.

For more info and to enrol, contact HURT on 02871369696 or email hurttraining@outlook.com

ACCREDITED TRAINING CENTRE HURT (Have Your Tomorrows) is an independent training organisation.

Qualifications are offered through TQUK (Training Qualifications UK), a leading provider of Accredited National Qualifications. O.C.N. (Open College Network) and C.P.C.A.B. (Counselling Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body).

Counselling programmes are validated by the N.C.S. (National Counselling Society).

To keep updated with HURT’s services, courses and opportunities:

@haveyourtomorrows @hurt_hyt

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sales@basilknipe.com Local Women Magazine | 27

Congratulations to the Coleraine Spin Queens Fitness fanatics from the Spin Club of Coleraine and the Coleraine Rotary Club raised over £13,000 for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland

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12-hour Spin Challenge organised by the Rotary Club of Coleraine has raised more than £13,000 for

the Air Ambulance NI charity.

The event which took place in December 2020

was hosted by Connie Burns-Wolfe, proprietor of the Spin Club in Coleraine. Many from her team of spinners had to maintain contact over Zoom because of Covid 19 restrictions but they cheered each other on to make sure the challenge was well and truly met.

After months of intensive training and several false starts due to the pandemic, the ladies in the spin team started at 7am and, with only minimal comfort and food stops, they all completed the challenge in good spirits.

Supporting the spinners were many sponsors and individuals who donated generously to help the great Air Ambulance Northern Ireland cause.

On the day of the challenge a team from the

ƒ The Spin Team, seated on the spin bike Connie Burn-Wolfe aka the Spin Queen and back left president of the Rotary Club of Coleraine, Graeme Strachan.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL 28 | Local Women Magazine

Coleraine

ƒ Spinners after 8 hours of work!

Rotary Club of Coleraine were in the town centre providing an additional ‘spinner’ at the market and accepting donations from members of the public.

The generous support and encouragement received from people in the town raised another £2,000 plus which in these difficult times was amazing.

A special mention must go to the fantastic Coleraine Spinners: Connie Burns-Wolfe aka The Spin Queen, Nicola Burns-Wolfe, Tracy Strachan, Kat Crawford, Roisin Quigley, Ursula Beades, Laura Moore, Rachel McCullough, Annette Deighan, Emma Marley and Louise Laverty. They all showed great spirit and determination in preparation and on the day of the challenge.

ƒ From L to R, Connie Burns-Wolf, Proprietor of the Spin Club Coleraine; Graeme Strachan, President of the Rotary Club of Coleraine; Claire Sugden MLA and Deputy Mayor Councillor Tom McKeown.

Speaking after the event, Graeme Strachan, president of the Rotary Club of Coleraine, said: “On behalf of the Club I wish to thank the ladies of the Coleraine Spin Club for their fantastic efforts in meeting the challenge and helping to raise funds for this really worthwhile cause.

“I would like to thank all our sponsors and all the people who contributed so generously through Just Giving and in our collection in the town centre.

All the money raised goes to the charity, Air Ambulance NI. “I would also like to thank the members of the Rotary Club for all their assistance in preparing for the event and for helping out on the day. A great team effort.”

ƒ A final celebration of all the hard work, the team at the end of the challenge.

ƒ Donated by the Giddy Goat in Coleraine

Thanks also go to the sponsors for the event: Spin Club Coleraine, Exorna Spar, Quigley Crane Hire , Wolfepack Pet Services, Stone Boutique, Irwin Stockman and Donaghey, Morelli’s, Bayview Hotel, Carnroe Supplies, Car Park Services, The Giddy Goat, Brian Canavan Associates, Total Foot Clinic.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL

Limavady Local Women Magazine | 29

“ANNA ROSE IS OUR WORLD”

As we prepare to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, East Belfast mum Laura Houtman introduces us to a very special little girl who is helping to challenge perceptions and break down stereotypes.

“Anna Rose is the very heartbeat of this family,” says mum-of-three Laura Houtman as she describes her 13-monthold baby girl.

And you only have to take a look at the pictures of this gorgeous little girl to know that she is absolutely perfect.

Laura loves to share her journey of motherhood on her Instagram page @ the_houtmans where she posts daily about the ups and downs of being a busy mum.

But she set up her page not only to chronicle her day-to-day life but to reach out to others, raise awareness and change perceptions of Trisomy 21.

Trisomy 21 is one of three different types of Down Syndrome and Laura is determined to break down the stereotypes that are associated with the conditions.

She also wants parents to know there is support for them and is proud to be associated with ‘Positive About Down Syndrome’ which is a charity set up by parents for parents and offers advice, real life experience and a safe space for people to talk.

Laura readily admits that before she had Anna-Rose she was guilty of knowing little about Down syndrome and was unaware of the discrimination that people living with the condition can face.

ƒ The Houtmans

Laura wants to live in a world where the negative perceptions of Down syndrome are left firmly in the past and shine a light on the happy, fulfilling life that Anna Rose is leading.

funny, loving and she is very much the centre of this family.

“For many years people living with Down syndrome have been invisible in our

society and hidden away. Thankfully, this “Our day-to-day life is not overshadowed is changing but there is much work still to by the fact that Anna Rose has Trisomy 21, that’s only a small part of her,” explains be done.”

Laura.

Lauren, who is also mum to John, 18, and

ƒ Anna Rose

“There is so much more to Anna Rose than Sophie, 4, had no idea she was expecting a a simple genetic condition. She’s clever, baby with Trisomy 21 during her pregnancy.

at me with such pity and said: ‘Ach, God love her.’

“I smiled politely and left. I don’t want pity or sympathy. I want people to change their mindsets.

“Another time I was talking to a lady who is a teacher who told me that people with Down syndrome could enter the world of work and listed a number of jobs that Anna Rose could do. All of these jobs were low paid, unskilled type jobs. I know she meant well but why should Anna Rose aim so low?

“I have great expectations for Anna Rose. I want her to grow up feeling she can do and be anything she wants to be.

ƒ Anna Rose

She was in the middle of a stressful time “She’s only a baby, I have no idea what she with a house move and caring for a toddler will be able to do or what she will be good and a teenager, when she gave birth early at, but I will certainly aim high.” to Anna Rose.

She says she felt totally unprepared as Laura would like to see a change to the her due date was scheduled for January negative language used around Down - but Anna Rose made an early arrival syndrome. She says that words like ‘risk’ need to be eradicated. before Christmas.

“With a house renovation and a house move, you can imagine the chaos. I didn’t have a great pregnancy. Anna Rose was measuring quite small, so everything moved very quickly, and I found myself in hospital early.

“As soon as she was born, I knew she had Trisomy 21. She had almond shaped eyes which were very noticeable. None of the medical staff mentioned it but I knew. I didn’t feel sad, I just knew and that was okay.

“About six hours after her birth, I was told she was showing ‘markers for Down syndrome’, but I already knew. I wasn’t upset or disappointed. I loved her immediately.

We all did.”

Like most new parents of a child with Down syndrome, it was the reaction of other people that upset Laura. The outdated and often misguided ideas people have about the condition led some people to react in a less than positive manner.

“Mostly people were great and delighted for us, but I did get one ‘sorry’ text,” says Laura.

“That was upsetting of course. Another time I had Anna Rose at the baby clinic and, when I told the lady sitting next to me about her condition, she looked

She explains: “It is disheartening to see negative language used to describe her beautiful little face.

“I recently received a letter from the hospital which included the phrase: ‘The risk we would quote for any further pregnancies…’ The risk? Anna Rose isn’t a risk. What about chance? It was chance that she has Trisomy 21, nothing bad happened for her to have it. It wasn’t something that I or anyone else did – just chance to some and destiny to me.”

With an amazing mum like Laura, and a brother and sister who adore her, the future looks bright for Anna Rose.

She is meeting her milestones, learning every day and loving life. But while she is learning she has taught the Houtman family so much more.

“Anna Rose has brought so much to us as a family,” says Laura.

“Her brother and sister are just amazing with her. She has brought out the most beautiful nurturing, loving side of them and it is a joy to watch.

ƒ Big brother John and Anna Rose

“For us as a family, Anna Rose has taught us to slow down and take each day as it comes.

She has shown us to appreciate what we have, and we are truly blessed.”

ƒ Big sister Sophie and Anna Rose

WHAT IS ‘POSITIVE ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME?’ We are a website by parents, for parents and parents to be.

We are the experts on living with Down syndrome and know that life is so much more than a diagnosis, there is a good deal to celebrate.

Our children and young people with Down syndrome lead full and rewarding lives, they are muchloved sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, who our families wouldn’t be without.

We are here to try to answer your questions, address your worries and concerns, never to judge, but to offer you the opportunity to see the reality of living with Down syndrome.

If you are a new/expectant mum, dad, friend or relative and you want to find out more about Down syndrome, have a question or just want a chat, please get in touch, we’d love to hear from you. Whilst everyone’s experiences are unique, we’ve all been where you are before. www. positiveaboutdownsyndrome.co.uk

ƒ Anna Rose Local Women Magazine | 31

“Limavady is one of the best shopping towns” Cherry Love, from Lovely Looks Boutique in Limavady, supports the Causeway Coast & Glens Gift Card scheme and can’t wait to get back in store to meet her customers as soon as it’s safe.

With a passion for fashion, stylish Cherry Love opened her boutique in Main Street, Limavady five years ago to help ladies look and feel their best.

Stocking clothes and accessories, Lovely Looks Boutiques offers ladies, a personal service to help them find the perfect outfit.

Cherry is a huge supporter of shopping local and is proud of the high-quality selection of retailers in the Roe Valley.

She says: “Limavady is one of the best shopping towns as we offer something just that little bit different (a bit like Lovely Looks boutique) and we have lots of independent shops.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN LOVELY LOOKS? I love finding clothes and accessories that are just that little bit different and I felt there were others like me who liked to be styled and accessorised in their own unique way - just that little bit different to the High Street.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BOUTIQUE? I enjoy styling ladies of all ages and sizes (catering up to size 20/22). I can give them a one-to-one service which sadly I’m missing due to COVID-19.

I love nothing more than getting ladies to try on something just that little bit different to their ‘normal’ and seeing their reaction when they check themselves out in the mirror. Generally, their smile tells the story! I get a great sense of job satisfaction when my customers return and tell me about the compliments they received from family and friends on their new look - their confidence soars. One of my little quotes is, “confidence is your best accessory!”

I want my customers to leave feeling and looking good.

Everything in Lovely Looks is handpicked by me and quality, style, value etc are all considered. I couldn’t buy something I didn’t love myself.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER OF THE CAUSEWAY COAST & GLENS GIFT CARD SCHEME? I have been a member of the scheme since it started, and I have had a few people in with their cards. It is a great way to keep business local.

HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK IS IT TO SHOP LOCAL? I think the pandemic has made us all realise the importance of keeping business local to support each other and I’m sure this will continue.

HOW HAVE YOU BEEN COPING WITH LOCKDOWN? Lockdown has been so tough on small businesses like mine. When you forward buy stock, we couldn’t have foreseen what was ahead of us no holidays/no restaurants/no hairdressers/nail

technician/bars/weekend breaks/coffee dates/ nights out.

ARE YOU TRADING ONLINE RIGHT NOW?

I had a shop full of beautiful clothes and nowhere to go. It is not an ideal situation, but we just hope and pray normality returns soon.

I have an online shop up and running which thankfully I got set up at the start of COVID-19.

I have always kept a loungewear range instore and this is now what we are all wearing due to not going anywhere. We want to remain stylish but comfortable and ladies who are working from home need stylish tops to wear for online meetings.

WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT YOUR JOB?

Just because the shop is not open doesn’t make my job any easier as now every item has to be photographed and put on the website, which is not my favourite part!

I much prefer the oneto-one experience with my lovely customers.

I love it all from the buying to styling to merchandising but most of all I love the interaction with my customers. I think I have the best customers ever! I love chatting to them and hearing a little about their lives and sometimes it’s just good to talk!

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE (ONCE WE ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN)?

I just can’t wait to reopen and get customers back in through our doors where they will be so welcome and we can once again enjoy styling ladies, having a chat and a little cuppa.

I really miss the interaction with my customers and some days they just pop in to say ‘hi’ or bring a coffee in for a chat.

I’m sure some of them miss our wee chats too.

My website is www.lovelylooksni. com and this is now my shop window together with Facebook and Instagram @lovely_looks_limavady.

Lovely Looks is situated at 69 Main Street, Limavady.

Support local with the Causeway Coast & Glens Gift Card Even in lockdown, there is still a way to lend your support to local businesses. Why not treat a loved one to a Gift Card this Valentine’s Day? Even though we are in lockdown again and our favourite businesses are closed, we still want to find a way to support them.

You can gift local with the Causeway Coast & Glens Gift Card, which is a great present for any occasion. It is easy to use and ensures that your money is spent locally.

Perfect if you have a gift to buy for a birthday, anniversary or even Valentine’s Day this month.

Gift that someone special something to look forward to while shopping local and supporting our borough’s local shops and businesses.

It is also a great way to say ‘Thank You’ to someone who has helped you out or just way to thank someone for their efforts over the last few months.

Check out our website for more information on how to buy a Gift Card and You can gift from the comfort of your own home and still support our to see all the places where you can use the Gift Card. You can get your Gift local businesses. When they reopen their doors, the Causeway Coast Card personalised and delivered to you or to the door of the recipient. & Glens Gift Card can be spent on a wonderful treat in over 200 shops and businesses across the borough.

It offers so much choice and can be redeemed in multiple outlets from jewellers, to hotels, to clothes shops, to cafes, to food stores, to activity attractions and so much more.

Where can I spend a Causeway Coast & Glens Gift Card?

www.causewaycoastandglensgiftcard.co.uk I’m a local business and would like to be able to accept this Gift Card.

For any business not currently involved in the Causeway Coast & Glens Gift Card scheme and you would like more information contact: catrina.mcneill@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk Local Women Magazine | 33

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34 | Local Women Magazine

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February is finally upon us and with it brings an important calendar celebration – Valentine’s Day! As the year has gotten off to a rather rocky start with lockdown 3.0, we think it’s more important than ever to lift your loved one’s spirits by celebrating on the 14th February. We can still have a Valentine’s Day like no other and put a creative 2021 spin on things.

For example, as we’re not able to go out to a restaurant for a meal, why not support your local hospitality by getting a tasty takeaway meal, beautifully decorate your dining room table and give your significant other a thoughtful present to make them smile. And if you’re single, of course you can still celebrate Valentine’s Day! Treat yourself with a pamper day full of self-care and buy yourself a gorgeous gift that you’ve had your eye on because in the words of ‘L’Oreal’ - you’re worth it!

Here at the Diamond in Kilrea, we have a treasure trove of products to suit all price ranges, just waiting to be discovered.

Perfume, accessories, cosmetics and giftware, you name it, there’s something here for everyone. As an essential business, we are open 6 days of the week and have all of the social distancing and hygiene measures in place to protect both our customers and our staff.

For those who need a Valentine’s Day gift or perhaps are getting well

h t in

r i A e

prepared for Mother’s Day in midMarch, we have a wide range of our gifts available online through our website www.mccloyskilrea.com. Our website lets you browse a fabulous range of our products, all from the comfort of your own home! We can even have your purchases gift wrapped if desired; this is a complimentary service.

Our website is not yet set up for delivery however, in the month of February we can arrange a local delivery on request within a 15-mile radius of Kilrea for purchases over £20. For any delivery queries please give us a ring on 028 295 40247 or WhatsApp us on 07554 927370.

We’re stockists of some of the hottest beauty brands around, such as the Polished London teeth whitening products, the Voduz hairstyling products and the latest beauty must-haves from popular cosmetic brands such as SOSU, L’Oreal, Oh My Glam and LMD Cosmetics.

In the jewellery world, we are stockists of leading Italian brands, Nomination and Rebecca.

These stunning jewellery ranges are full of glitz and glamour. What I love most about these two brands are the ranges that can be personalised. This adds an extra special touch to a gift when you have essentially picked out and

designed it yourself. The Rebecca My World necklaces and bracelets can be styled with a range of pendants, from initials to hearts and everything in between. Not to mention regarding the popular Nomination composable bracelet, there are literally thousands of silver, gold and rose gold charms to add to your base bracelet. Weddings, new arrivals, pets, family, hobbies, we have charms to commemorate every occasion! Additionally, we stock other jewellery brands such as Tipperary Crystal, Coeur de Lion, Pilgrim and Belle & Beau.

We want to let you in on a secret… We’re working extremely hard on lots of exciting new projects behind the scenes! If you

would like to receive email updates and ensure that you’ll be first to be kept in the loop with what’s happening at McCloys, you can find out mailing list sign up link over on our social media.

In the coming months, we look forward to receiving lots of fabulous new products from suppliers, both old and new.

Remember that you can keep up to date with our latest arrivals through our Facebook and Instagram channels and for any queries or personalised hamper enquiries please don’t hesitate to WhatsApp us on 07554 927370.

On a final note, stay safe and look after yourselves this month.

Scan here to browse our website

www.mccloyskilrea.com Local Women Magazine | 39

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Local Women Magazine | 41

STARLIGHT & STONE… AT HOME

Portrush’s stylish and eco-friendly boutique Starlight & Stone has successfully adapted to new trading conditions with a new website and online live sales – so, you can enjoy shopping from the comfort of your own home.

F

or locals and visitors to Portrush, Starlight & Stone is the go-to boutique in the seaside resort.

Combining fashion with ethical trading, Starlight & Stone is a truly unique shopping experience.

Customers love browsing the carefully selected brands that owner Mary Rose Stewart has selected for her store where the emphasis is on sustainable fashion.

Eco-friendly fashion is of paramount importance, but the clothing ranges never compromise on style and quality.

Starlight & Stone has built up a loyal customer base on the north coast and with the many tourists who make Portrush their second home in the summer months.

But sadly, like with all businesses, Starlight & Stone has been forced to close its doors due to the Covid-19 restrictions.

However, undeterred, and due to customer demand, Mary Rose has moved her business online.

With a new website and using social media to showcase her fashion in live events, Mary Rose has created a new dimension to her business.

With the help of her daughter Ellen, Starlight & Stone is now open for business 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What prompted you to start trading online?

All of a sudden, here we were again, in lockdown. It was a terrible blow. We had just begun to recover from the last one and this 42 | Local Women Magazine

has really changed how we work this time Have you enjoyed reaching round. Customers tell us they love to see the out to a global market? product live rather than in a picture, so they I am all about local so that is where I make better buying choices. focus. I enjoy building relationships with Tell us about the brands you my customers and many friends have been gained since opening. stock in your online shop?

time, we were left with a huge amount of overstock. We work with small, sustainable producers and companies so we honoured all our forward orders, even during lockdown, as we realised the effect this would have on our suppliers and their ability to survive.

But it is tough to have a full stockroom and closed doors.

How did you get started?

My daughter Ellen created a website for us during the early weeks of the closure in 2020, which helped showcase our products. We turned to it again this time and began the long process of adding everything to the website.

What about your live fashion events?

One evening Ellen had some inspiration.

She is the brains behind the shop! She had seen a video on Depop, where she has her vintage store and came up with the idea that we could use social media to host a live sale. This was really pushing boundaries for me, but we went ahead and showcased our sale items. It was a roaring success! So, we committed to every Tuesday and Friday at 8.30 pm until we can open again.

Our customers love it. We have had such good feedback and it really has given our confidence a boost. We interact and listen to the feedback, so we learn what the customer really wants and that gives us direction. It

70% of our stock is either Fairtrade or ecofriendly. Our core brand, Thought, is one of the most ethical companies around in fashion right now. Their whole process is stringently monitored and transparent so the customer can buy with absolute confidence.

We also stock CHALK, a small English company specialising in high quality cotton and linen and some beautiful homewares.

Coco Bombay, our fabulous range of evening and casual clothing is made from recycled sari fabric, directly rescues women from sextrafficking in India and provides them with work, safe home life, schooling and dignity.

We also have Fairtrade homeware and lifestyle and lots of eco-friendly and vegan body products.

For now, you are focused on online trading, but do you miss your actual shop and customers?

Yes, very much so. A shop is not just a trading space, it is a social hub. I miss all the ladies who pop by for a chat or a wee coffee and to put the world to rights. It has been an isolating experience this time in lockdown.

I will be very glad to open our doors again.

But we do get to connect online in our sales on Friday nights and chat there. It’s just not the same as face to face though and I miss the physical shop environment.

What plans to do you have for the future of Starlight & Stone?

We are making plans to strengthen our online presence but again, focussing on local and within Northern Ireland. We have given the shop interior a makeover and may work on some branding changes also. However, our live online sales will definitely remain Our online shop reflects the brands instore, until confidence returns. showcasing a little of everything we do.

Our motto is, “Great Things Take Time,”

The ethos of Starlight & Stone is about ethical trading and sustainability - is this the same with the online shop?

What are some of your customers’ favourite brands?

and we are in no rush. I will make plans and be prepared to change them! If anything, 2020 has taught us that we have to adapt.

Thought is our main best seller, but we also have begun to stock new plus size ranges which are going really well. Our aim is to find what the customer wants and provide it. We listen to the customer, not fashion trends.

Our luxury brand, Magnolia Pearl, is a favourite also. We call it ‘keeper clothing.’

They are investment pieces that you will reinvent again and again.

Do you deliver worldwide?

Yes, we used to send all over the globe if required, but we have noticed a huge jump in postal rates since Brexit and this may restrict this ability going forward.

Time will tell!

Shop online now at

www.starlightandstoneportrush.com 58 Main Street | Portrush | BT56 8BL Local Women Magazine | 43

Joanna Denton

“Share your brilliance with the universe!”

After suffering two work-related burnouts, Joanna Denton became a business mentor, helping others who are experiencing struggles at work. Each month Joanna will use her expertise to help you with any business-related problems you may be experiencing in these uncertain times.

The Beauty Salon Owner Dear Joanna,

I own a salon in Belfast and my business has been impacted badly by COVID-19, like so many others. I have managed to hang on and keep going these last months, but it has been really, really tough.

For the last couple of months, I have been working on the idea of starting a series of Facebook lives talking about different treatments that people can do at home.

I figure if enough people watch I can end up getting lots of advertising revenue and secure my business.

But here’s the thing. I have never done this before. I am so scared of messing it all up, that people will laugh at me, not take me seriously, so much so that I have been working on the idea for months and I haven’t actually started. It feels like I only have one shot at getting it right, getting it perfect, and if I mess it up, there is no going back or do over. I also get really scared about speaking in public.

However, if I keep waiting, I will miss the boat completely.

What can I do?

Yours,

Jenny

Dear Jenny,

Your brilliance needs to be in the universe, even if it’s not pretty.

Thank you for sharing all that is going on for you at the moment.

I am a regular salon goer, but during the shutdowns all my regular visits have gone out the window. My hair is now a grey streaked bob, my eyebrows have gone crazy, and my legs are like sandpaper.

I really understand what it is like to have a great idea for the business, but then to worry about it needing to be perfect first time.

And you know what. That’s okay. Take a deep breath, we got this.

However, there are things I would be willing to do for myself at home, but I just don’t know how.

It can be so tempting to think that everything is riding on this one idea and we have to get everything perfect the first time. As women, in particular, society tells us that we have to have it all worked out – and as business owners, our staff and our customers are looking to us to be strong.

Think of everyone out there like me that you could be helping with these videos, that are left high and dry because you are not sharing what you know. Better that your brilliance be out in the universe, even if it’s not pretty. almost selfish to do otherwise, right?

The challenge comes when our desire to be perfect means that we don’t even start.

Imagine you are sitting down for a cuppa with a client.

What could you learn?

Finally, one thing I suggest to my speaking clients for the nerves about speaking online – imagine that behind that camera is your most favourite client.

What if you saw this idea not as an all or nothing experience, but rather a laboratory to experiment and find out something?

If it was just her you were talking to, and you knew she would love whatever you say, what would you say to her?

What if you took the pressure off? No longer think of it as a big all or nothing plan to secure your business.

Picture her face, and just talk to her. No one else matters.

So, sometimes it’s better to start ugly, than not at all.

Instead, you asked yourself a question, like: “I have never done a Facebook live before; I wonder how it works? Can I do a two-minute Facebook live and talk about three reasons why I love my favourite product?”

I hope this has been helpful. Remember, sometimes it takes those five seconds of courage to press “go live.” Good luck with this, and do let me know how it goes.

And then just do that.

And then see what you learn.

Remember – if you hate it, you can easily delete the video. No one need ever see it.

And if you love it – you can come up with a new question for the next one.

What question would you want to answer in such an experiment?

44 | Local Women Magazine

JD Speaking and Strategy Ltd River House | 48-60 High Street | Belfast | BT1 2BE T: +44 (0)7795085297 |E: joanna@joannadenton.com For further information check out

www.joannadenton.com

Don’t stop the love!

Even though it’s lockdown, behind the scenes Shannon McMillan and her team at Blossom & Birch are working hard to bring a little romance to Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day is here, and we could all do with a day of love and positivity at the moment.

Unfortunately, our shopfloor will be closed due to the latest lockdown, but we will be working behind the scenes safely to make sure we make some lucky ladies and gents smile this Valentine’s Day.

WHY DO WE GIVE RED ROSES ON VALENTINE’S DAY? Every rose has a meaning but the tradition of giving flowers came from King Charles II of Sweden when he discovered the art and language of flowers during the 17th century during a trip to Persia. He learned how you could use flowers to express yourself without speaking a word. In the language of flowers, you would give someone a yellow carnation if they disappointed you or a hydrangea to show gratitude, whereas the red rose symbolised deep love. The rose itself got its deep love connection from the Greek goddess Aphrodite the Goddess of Love.

When Claudius found out, Valentine was sentenced to death.

During this time in jail, he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter.

Before he unfortunately met his end, he wrote a letter to his love signed “from your Valentine,” which is where we get the tradition of writing letters or the more modern Valentine’s Day cards.

WHO WAS ST VALENTINE? St Valentine is the man behind the day. There are many different stories about him, the most popular being that he was a priest from Rome during the third century AD during Emperor Claudius’ reign. Claudius had banned marriage as he believed married men were bad soldiers, Valentine felt this was wrong and unfair so married couples in secret.

DOORSTEP/CONTACTLESS VALENTINE’S DAY DELIVERY What better way to show your love this year than with a beautiful bunch of red roses? If roses aren’t your thing, give us a call, we have a beautiful selection of fresh flowers instore, as well as our own candles.

TENDER LOVE & CAKES Got a sweet tooth? We have Valentine’s dessert sorted. We have teamed up with Anouska from Tender Love & Cakes again this year with these amazing Valentine’s Treat Boxes available to pre-order with yours truly.

Anouska says: “Show your loved ones you are thinking of them even more this Valentine’s Day with a delicious box of goodies. Thank you for all your support.”

I hope your month is filled with love, positive vibes and happiness.

Until next month,

Shannon xo

Blossom & Birch Flowers by Shannon Ormandy 4 Church Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6DL

Blossom & Birch The Flower Shack 36a Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EB

Wedding Boutique Blossom&Birch Wedding Centre Randalstown

NEVER IGNORE CHANGES TO YOUR BODY Cancer charity Action Cancer says don’t ignore worrying signs and consult your GP.

A

By Maureen Coleman

leading cancer charity in Northern Ireland has urged people with non Covid-related medical concerns or who have noticed worrying changes in their bodies to not shy away from contacting their GPs.

BREAST CANCER – changes in shape of size of the breast, lump in the breast or under the armpit, dimpling, puckering of redness in the skin, nipple discharge, change in the position of the nipple, veins that stand out more than normal, a pain or odd sensation that isn’t normal for you.

With Northern Ireland now in the second month of the latest lockdown and the Trusts still under pressure as they tackle the pandemic, many people are still reluctant to speak to their doctors about health concerns.

But while the Belfast Trust announced last month that it was cancelling all urgent cancer surgeries due to mounting pressure on NHS staff and a lack of bed space, Action Cancer is calling on the public not to be deterred from contacting their doctors about worrying symptoms or body changes.

CERVICAL CANCER – bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, bleeding after the menopause.

Some women also have a vaginal discharge or pain in the lower pelvis.

OVARIAN CANCER – persistent bloating, pain in the pelvis and lower stomach, unexplained tiredness, loss of appetite, needing to pass urine more frequently, back pain.

In an attempt to reduce a backlog and a wave of later stage diagnoses, which often require more intensive and expensive treatment than those diagnosed at an early stage, Action Cancer says unusual symptoms should not be ignored, particularly related to the four main cancers – prostate, breast, lung and bowel.

Gwyneth Hinds, a doctor and board member of Action Cancer, points out that even if there are delays in surgery, investigations and other forms of nonsurgical treatment can still be carried out.

And she says to bear in mind that not all symptoms turn out to be cancer.

“For the vast majority of people, they will be given good news that they don’t have cancer,” she says.

TESTICULAR CANCER – small lump/hardness, swelling, tenderness, dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin.

“A lump in the breast is something to always flag up but also, if you notice any changes at all, particularly around the nipples or skin that is pulled or dimpled, do not ignore these signs. Speak to your doctor straight away. Don’t go to A & E. Your own GP knows you and your medical history and will refer you on if your symptoms are suggestive of cancer.”

“In saying that, there are things that should definitely not be ignored, especially when it comes to the Big Four cancers. For example, if men are having to urinate more at night-time, there’s blood in the urine or the flow takes longer, it could be prostate cancer.

Action Cancer offers interactive gender specific Cancer Awareness sessions to workplaces and community organisations to increase knowledge of the signs and symptoms of common cancers and to help people learn how to reduce the risks of developing the disease. The charity also offers a Step into Action programme, delivered virtually. It includes up to six one-to-one sessions with a health and wellbeing coach to help encourage and motivate people wanting to get healthier and is available to the general public.

“If you have a persistent cough for a few weeks and a Covid test has come back negative or if you’re coughing up blood, that needs to be investigated.

Similarly, any changes in bowel habits, a persistent dull ache or unexplained weight loss, must be investigated too.

In addition, Action Cancer provides a range of health checks aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of early detection and how a healthy lifestyle can help set you up for the future. These include blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and body composition.

“The risk starts to increase over the age of 55. One third of all diagnoses are in people over 75, so if you’re having problems with your bowels, for example, or you’ve found a lump in your breast, be reassured that you will probably be given good news.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

ƒ Gwyneth Hinds

PROSTATE CANCER - passing urine unexpectedly, passing urine several times a night, needing to strain to pass urine, urgency to go but barely producing a trickle, pain passing urine, discomfort such as pain or a burning sensation, dribbling after stopping, blood in urine.

BOWEL CANCER – blood in stools or bleeding from rectum, loose and frequent bowel movements lasting three weeks or more, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness.

LUNG CANCER - a persistent cough, shortness of breath, coughing up sputum with traces of blood, persistent chest pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss.

SKIN CANCER – Non-melanoma – spot or sore that doesn’t heal within four weeks, spot or sore that continues to hurt, scab, bleed or itch, areas of skin that have broken down or formed an ulcer and doesn’t heal within four weeks.

Melanoma – (most commonly occurs on a mole) – change in size, colour, shape, loss of symmetry, itching or pain, inflammation, bleeding or crusting.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL 46 | Local Women Magazine

www.actioncancer.org

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“IChristmas want you to imagine walking Christmas Gi�t Christmas Gi�tGuide Guide Gi�t Guide for Art Lovers through my landscapes” for Art Lovers for Art Lovers Give a loved one the gift of stunning local art this year Give lovedone one thegift gift stunninglocal local art art this year Give a aloved the ofofstunning year This month Gallery 1608, Bushmills speaks tothis artist with Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide. with Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide.

Ciaran Magill about his influences. with Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide.

Local Art…

HELLO CIARAN, THANK FOR ME With Christmas justYOU around theWELCOMING corner, this month TO YOUR BEAUTIFUL STUDIO HERE IN NEWCASTLE With Christmas just around the corner, this month we have picked our favourite Christmas gifts from Christmas around corner, month ON With A SUNNY DAY.just CAN YOUthe TELL ME Athis LITTLE some of our top Irish artists.Christmas This year, gifts whygifts not we have picked our favourite Christmas we have picked our favourite fromfrom ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY TO BECOMING AN ARTIST? avoid the homogenous high street presents and some of our top Irish artists.

This year, why notbuy someI of oura top Irish artists.Studies This year, why&not In 1998, did Foundation in Art Design something which is both high unique and presents collectable for avoid the homogenous street avoid theenjoyed homogenous highunder street presents andand buybuy at UU and working Neil Shawcross, your loved ones.

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Local Art… Local Art…

Artist Ciaran Magill at his studio in Newcastle at the foot of the Mourne Mountains

drawing.

Then in 1999, headed to will London your loved ones.

A bit ofIextra thought provideto a gift which keeps on giving. study at list Ravensbourne College ofprints Design Top of keeps our thisgiving. year are limited edition by giftFashion which on and Communication before toBelfast Belfast two most well-known artists.

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Belfast Applied Arts from 2006 to 2009.

It was a wonderful burlesque type women are always popular and we artist, Terry Bradley’s depiction of dock workers and Maguire, Robert Spotten, NUA, JG, NI Silver, Ghost, artist, of dock workers and Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery. surprise toTerry win the Emerging Artist Award have all Bradley’s of hisDIAGEO mostdepiction recent prints in stock. burlesque type women are always popular and we Maguire, Robert Spotten, NUA, JG, NI Silver, Ghost, burlesque type women arealso always popular and we at my degree show, which sold out, so it was Maguire, Robert Spotten, NUA, JG, NI Silver, Ghost, Keith limited is also very have Drury’s all of his mostedition recentwork prints in stock.

Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery. the have icingall onofthe cakerecent all round! his most prints in stock.

Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery.

Local Ceramics…

LocalCeramics…

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collectable and popular with our clients. His work is Ceramics are also a very popular gift and again we Keith Drury’s limited edition work is also very CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR both quirky and contemporary, Keith Drury’s limited edition work INFLUENCES isdepicting also verydifferent can accommodate all budgets. Pieces range from collectable and popular with our clients.

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The giftColhoun. of a book never fails and at Gallery 1608 we Nationally, Scottish painter Peter Doig has Patrick CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR STYLE? have perhaps the largest selection of Irish Art Books influenced my thinking in terms of creating a It begins with a process of painting multiple layers under the never whole fails of Northern Ireland. 1608 we Theone gift roof of a in book and at Gallery narrative, whereby the viewer tries to decipher gift of a bookthe never fails selection and at Gallery we to create a sense of luminous light breathing what is about to happen. Night Glow is an Thehave perhaps largest of Irish1608 Art Books perhaps the largest selection of Irish Art Books Irish Paintings… through the canvas. Priming the stretchers in example of this, with backlight radiating through have under one roof in the whole of Northern Ireland.

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83-85 Main Street, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8QD within the landscape.

T: names 028such 2073 1324 E:info@gallery1608.co.uk W:www.gallery1608.co.uk zone, all our creative juices are flowing, and we and a peaceful New Year! from well-known as Louise a wonderful artist Gustav Klimt Antrim, created a get 83-85 Main Historically, Street,Austrian Bushmills, Co. BT57 8QDrush of adrenaline. Hopefully some of this magic becomes imbued in the series of mesmerising landscapes which convey 83-8575 cmMainE:info@gallery1608.co.uk Street, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8QD T:Tree, 028 W:www.gallery1608.co.uk brushstrokes and it radiates a buzz of excitement a sense of bliss. His brushwork and compositions Ciaran Magill: Purple oil on 2073 canvas, 61 x 1324

T: 028 2073 1324 E:info@gallery1608.co.uk W:www.gallery1608.co.uk have always had a tremendous impact on me. to gallery visitors.

83-85 Main Street, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8QD T: 028 2073 1324 | E: info@gallery1608.co.uk | W: www.gallery1608.co.uk 48 | Local Women Magazine

OPE 7D N A W AYS ALL EEK, ROUYEAR ND .

HERN T R O N D’S N A L E IR EST LARG RY GALLE

Rowland Davidson

Andrez Mazur

William Mullan

Philip McFadden

Gemma Best

Jonny McEwan

Kyle Barnes

Anthony McMenamin

Vincent Devine

Robert McLearnon

Cupar Pilson

Keith Drury

Colin Watson

Colin Gibson

William Collins

Emma Spence

Maurice Orr

Charles Harper Adam Pomeroy

Jin Yong

Trudie Mooney

William Mullan

Stephanie Noble

Brian Smyth

Quinn Russell

Maurice C Wilks

Josephine Kelly

Raymond Kennedy

Lucy Doyle

83-85 Main Street, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8QD T: 028 2073 1324 | E: info@gallery1608.co.uk | W: www.gallery1608.co.uk

TOP ACCOLADE FOR LIMAVADY’S SONYA CASSIDY

SCHOOL LEAVERS INVITED TO ‘BE MORE AT TOBERMORE’

Limavady’s Sonya Cassidy is one of seven PR professionals to gain a CIPR Fellowship ƒ Sonya Cassidy, Sonya Cassidy PR Limited.

Lucy Baxter

LEADING PAVING AND WALLING MANUFACTURER TOBERMORE HAS LAUNCHED AN EXCITING NEW APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS AND PUPILS RECEIVING THEIR GCSES THIS SUMMER.

T

obermore Academy Apprenticeships give the opportunity to ‘earn as you learn’ by combining on-thejob experience with study at college.

Apprentices will gain real life experience and understanding of the production process.

They will also have day release to attend college where they will study towards a 3rd level qualification.

The World Class hard landscaping manufacturer is seeking quality apprentices that are ‘mechanically minded’ to join their Production Facility at Tobermore, based just outside Magherafelt, Northern Ireland.

Tobermore Academy is now recruiting young people to apply for the role of ‘Apprentice Maintenance Fitters.’ The apprentices will work within Tobermore’s Maintenance Team and will have designated mentors throughout their Training.

David Henderson, Managing Director of Tobermore

50 Women 34 | Local | Local WomenMagazine Magazine

commented on the scheme: “We are so proud to launch our new Tobermore Academy. We have identified Apprenticeships as a key priority for the future success of our business. This Apprenticeship Scheme forms part of our ambitious £30m expansion plans. While earning as they learn, these bright apprentices will be sharpening specific skills needed by our business. This scheme will be invaluable for young people to access a great start in their career. Remember, University isn’t the only route towards qualifications and a good career!”

Tobermore are inviting applicants to apply now, before the closing date of 12 March 2021.

For more information and to apply, please visit www. tobermore.co.uk/careers , alternatively you can request the ‘Tobermore Academy Booklet’ by emailing hr@ tobermore.co.uk or phoning 028 796 42411.

P

ublic relations professional Sonya Cassidy has been awarded a Fellowship by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) for her dedication and contribution to the industry.

The accolade was awarded to Ms Cassidy from Limavady for her “outstanding” work in the field over the past 25 years.

It not only demonstrates her devotion to the industry but best practice, professionalism, and role as an advocate for CIPR, which is the world’s only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations practitioners, with nearly 10,000 members.

Ms Cassidy was one of seven members to be awarded a Fellowship so far this year.

To date, Ms Cassidy’s career has seen her work with some of the biggest private and public sector organisations in Northern Ireland and further afield.

Specialising in strategic, creative, and results-driven communications, her clients span a wide range of industries including financial services, property, renewable energy, social enterprise, hospitality, food and drink and travel and tourism.

Locally, Ms Cassidy’s client list includes Action Cancer, Agnew Group, MCL InsureTech, Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, Ilimex Limited, Hinch Distillery, Simpson Developments, The Salthouse and Bishop’s Gate Hotel.

She has attracted almost two dozen awards over the years for her campaigns including her work with the £1.7m Tellus South West Project, a geological mapping project which uncovered the environmental makeup of Cornwall, Devon, and parts of Somerset. For this particular project she was the recipient of a gold award at the CIPR PRide Awards.

Most recently Ms Cassidy has expanded her portfolio to welcome some of the pandemic’s most entrepreneurial seedling firms including the creators of a new air steriliser, the Ilimex UV-C Air Steriliser, which can kill up to 99.9999% of airborne pathogens including Covid-19.

Speaking about the Fellowship, Sonya Cassidy said: “I am honoured to join the ranks of PR Fellows. Championing our profession and advocating learning are two hugely important areas for me. This Fellowship not only gives recognition for all the work I’ve put in over the years, but it also provides an opportunity to take what I have learned and share it with others on their PR journey.”

INTERIORS WITH

A LITTLE DRAMA...

Louise McKenna from Elle Designs is taking inspiration from our favourite Netflix period dramas The Crown and Bridgerton to create dramatic, sumptuous interiors.

If you haven’t already binge-watched The Crown, the Netflix-original drama about the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II, there’s no better time to start.

It is bringing back some notable interior design influences from the past. I can’t take my eyes off the sumptuous textures, rich patterns, ornate elements and exquisite detailing in the palaces.

I’ve even been known to press the pause button to scan the room properly, get distracted by the curtains not sitting properly and have no idea what they are saying when I spy the cushions where the braid has not been mitred at the corners properly.

Between The Crown and Bridgerton there has been a feast for the eyes of late on Netflix.

Bridgerton shows a bright twist on Regency style, whereas Season 4 of The Crown is set between the late 1970s to the 1990s. The interiors in this latest instalment are filled with extravagant frills, florals and more.

Princess Diana was obsessed with layered frills, the pie crust collar and big puff sleeves, as seen in her iconic wedding dress. Frills on cushion covers and pelmets, curtains were similarly edged with a frill and finished with super thick interlining, so they were more like duvets than window dressings, it was exuberant and extravagant.

Who wouldn’t want to introduce aspects of The Crown interiors into their home? There is so much to choose from. Anyone who knows my personal style will appreciate I adore Balmoral, the dark wood panelling, checks and plaids and of course the practicality of their boot room and cloaks area.

I might need to watch it again for the storyline!

Floral print was huge, rooms were filled with sofas and armchairs in flower patterned chintz.

The weekend country house look was the fashion, add in some trellis pattern and you had the makings of your perfect 80s interior scheme. It was a minimalist’s idea of hell. More is more was the motto, where you could see three different wallpaper dressings in one room.

We are certainly influenced by what we consume, so Zoffany timed their latest launch perfectly with the Palladio volume one collection.

They handpicked six of the favourite Palladio designs from their 1955 launch, along with some new creations and the designs are as relevant today as they were 65 years ago.

Luxury paint brands have captured this market well with their historical colours that suit period properties or those wanting to create that style in a new home.

We have even been influenced to go back to matt finishes instead of the practical mid-sheen as the colours look much more intense, just like they would in a palatial or period home.

Consultancy by Appointment Only Tel: 028 796 27777 | Email: interiors@elledesignsni.co.uk Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ElleDesigns Follow us on Instagram: Elledesigns_louise

52 | Local Women Magazine

Garden Rooms | Extensions | Garden Pods Salon | Home Office | Customised Outdoor Living

B O O K A CO N S ULTATI O N N O W Call 078 0319 1285 / 078 7401 1845 or email sales@luxurygardenstudios.co.uk

FIND US ONLINE AT

www.luxurygardenstudios.co.uk Follow us on Facebook/luxurygardenstudios

MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH BLADES & BEAUTY The artistry and talent of Catriona Channing and the team from Blades & Beauty has been inspiring people across the country during lockdown.

Hello Local Women readers, It has been a strange start to the year. I heard on the radio recently we would be locked down until March.

How life has changed in the space of 12 months for us all. We have all slowed down. I am back to learning to live with my husband and children 24 hours a day seven days a week in the close knit walls our home. No events to attend, no shows, no trips away, and no escaping the role of full time mummy and wife.

At first, I found it hard. I now feel and see the positives it has brought. My son's whole business plan mapped out for his future has come together.

My daughter is amazingly creative also, she was worried about picking her GCSE’s but we have been able to work that out. We have watched several Netflix series and documentaries as a family together. We have laughed, cried and got to all know each other a little better to be honest.

Lockdown has made me something my husband never could never manage in over 15 years of marriage lol - a housewife! I am secretly kind of enjoying it though. I am ensuring my mind doesn't start the panic mode of feeling helpless. Exploring new and existing hobbies too.

My Family by Irish News 2019

Aadnevik - London Fashion Week Vogue Thailand 2020

Key Artist: Paula Graffin

I have been a businesswoman for over 15 years and worked in a full-time job along with raising 2 children. I decided to slow down 6 years ago. The slowing down part never really happened as I imagined. I gave up my job in the health care service due to an injury. We had other successful businesses, I opened the salon for me. I could still be sociable and engage with people.

I also wanted to employ a few local people I knew of and if the salon held its own then I would be happy.

Katie by

Alexandra Barfoot 2020

As a businesswoman I ensured I employed what I deemed to be the best. My local team is special. Still to this day I pride on those same principals. I believe and maintain that only the best technicians and people get to work or train at Blades & Beauty.

It has truly been a whirlwind. I wasn't long opened when brand names were wanting to work in conjunction with me. Was I shocked? In a way, yes. But at the same time not really. I felt inspired. I had pencilled out a five-year business plan way before I even had the builders or architects in my empty warehouse floor.

I spent a lot of money training on courses along with my team, it’s gave me the knowledge, understanding and ability to employ the best and provide the best insight and services in the industry. My mother owned a hair salon, and a lot of my early childhood was spent in one. I am in fact qualified to do a lot of the treatments in my salon, but I have always maintained, that’s why I have employed my talented team. I feel that I’m able to provide a somewhat more personable service to my staff and customers as a business owner.

Blades & Beauty has become more than a salon, it’s a brand. Everything I had learned as a businesswoman.

My knowledge, artistic skills, love of all things beauty and fashion along with a team of highly qualified professionals has made waves in the fashion and beauty industry at home and abroad.

I’ve made connections and obtained sponsorships

My Team 2017

with major brands and public personalities.

Individually and collectively, my team has achieved the best.

Living it, it was like a dream. We were all working at 1000 mph. I don't think any of us really understood or appreciated what we did.

At the local women awards when

we won hair stylists of the year.

I am so glad I got to create my salon supplies business along with my husband before COVID-19, it has kept us all going. The support we receive from the brands we distribute for and our customers is amazing.

I have received many messages from people during lockdown to say how my work and the art I created has helped them and how my journey has inspired confidence in others to retrain or go back to further education. From the bottom of my heart thank you to those people.

It means a lot to my staff, my family and myself to know that Blades & Beauty has made a difference.

Hopefully, we will be open again soon. We aim to come back bigger and better than ever before with the latest treatments and training.

With a constantly evolving industry I believe keeping up with all the aspects of the industry keeps you relevant and consistent.

Stay safe, stay strong and most of all … believe in you and believe in your dreams because in the end we are all only human.

Top Model Awards 2018

25 Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim, BT41 4LD T: 028 9446 4434 | E: blades&beauty@gmail.com bladesandbeauty

bladesandbeauty

www.bladesandbeauty.co.uk

bladesandbeauty bladesandbeauty

25 Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road,Antrim, BT41 4LD | T: 028 9446 4434

www.bladesandbeauty.co.uk Photographer: Brendan Gallagher Photography

FREE COMPETITION

Roast THE PERFECT

Established since 2000

Choose your roast & enjoy complimentary Veg & Roasting Tray for a &

beautifully flavoured

juicy roast

TOP TIP Use the juices in the roasting tray to make a delicious gravy.

WIN A HOME WHITENING KIT To celebrate these twenty years, we are offering a GIVEAWAY COMPETITION!!…to one lucky winner a home tooth whitening kit including bespoke whitening trays and whitening gels to enhance your gorgeous smile. All you need to do to enter is 1. Like the post for the competition on Portstewart Family Dental’s Facebook and Instagram 2. Tag 1 friend in the comments (1 friend per comment but each comment counts as a 1 entry) 3. Make sure you are FOLLOWING Portstewart Family Dental on Facebook and Instagram, for 10 extra entries share the post to your story/feed & tag us.

The recipient of the whitening treatment must be 18 years or over.

The competition ends on Monday 1st March at 12noon and the winner will be chosen at random at 5pm (UK time) This competition is in no way affiliated with Instagram, Facebook or its associates. No cash alternative is offered.

No purchase necessary.

Good luck!

Tel 028 70832798 www. portstewartfamilydental.co.uk

56 | Local Women Magazine

FARM

ASSURED

SHOP ALL ROASTS VIA THE APP OR IN STORE

Local Woman Exclusive Offer

SPEND £20 OR MORE ON RED MEAT AND GET A FREE SIDE.

T&Cs Apply | Offer valid in store only to 28th Feb 2021 | 1 Per Customer.Photocopies not accepted.

WE ARE ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP At John Laverty Optometrists, the team are always ready to help you either in person or over the phone. Call today and see how they can help you.

As an essential business we are following government guidance as well as NHS advice and remaining open throughout lockdown.

We are not sending out any recall letters and are simply waiting for people to contact us if they have any issues.

Government guidance states that you can leave home for medical appointments during lockdown including appointments for your eyecare or eyewear needs. So, my advice is if you have any concerns pick up the phone and give us a call. We are obviously a lot quieter and happy to help.

A recent YouGov survey commissioned by research charity Fight For Sight showed that more than 50% of people are looking at screens for significantly more time each day since the pandemic started. 38% of people believed their eyesight had worsened, reporting difficulty reading, headaches, eye strain and poorer night vision.

Fight for Sight said: “More than half of all cases of sight loss are avoidable through early detection and prevention methods. Regular eye tests can often detect symptomless sightthreatening conditions.”

If you are shielding and have any concerns about your vision the team are also available by phone or email to advise you and answer your questions.

WINNER OPTICIANS OF THE YEAR

SOME PATIENTS WE HAVE LOOKED AFTER THIS MONTH INCLUDE:

YOUR SAFETY AND STAFF SAFETY ARE MY PRIORITY WHICH IS WHY:

1. The welder: we helped remove the steel from his eye and medicate him for a speedy recovery.

•

We want you to feel safe by booking an appointment to visit.

•

We have a hand sanitising station at the door for your convenience.

•

We are wearing PPE and we will ask you to wear a mask.

•

We wipe down all surfaces between appointments.

•

We have had our first vaccination in the middle of January.

2. The nurse: working on a phone support line, caring for others, and sharing their burden.

3. The HGV driver: if the licence is not renewed, then he’s in trouble.

4. The 4-year-old: referred to us from the hospital for her first pair of glasses.

5. The GP: her son snapped her glasses in half. We sourced a new frame and posted them to her home.

Please keep safe and if you have any questions feel free to give us a call.

Brian McKeown

Call us today on 028 7034 2624 Ballymoney | Coleraine | Garvagh www.JohnLaverty.co.uk Local Women Magazine | 57

DENTAL CARE FOR DOGS It’s important to keep your dog’s teeth clean and there’s a range of ways to improve your pooch’s dental hygiene available at Pet & Country.

Did you know that February is Pet Dental Health month?

Looking after your pet’s oral health is an important part of maintaining their overall wellbeing.

Unfortunately, they cannot grab a toothbrush and clean their own teeth, so we need to help them along by providing the correct toys, chews, food and cleaning products to keep their teeth and gums healthy and their breath fresh.

TEETHING A new puppy has 28 temporary teeth which are replaced with 42 permanent teeth. These adult teeth will emerge when the puppy is about 4 months old – if you see any puppy teeth in the gums while the adult ones emerge please see your vet. By the time your puppy is 6 months old all their first teeth should have been replaced.

CLEANING AND DENTAL CLEANING PRODUCTS Introducing a toothbrush and toothpaste into your dog’s routine early with positive training methods will help make dental hygiene a breeze.

1. Before you begin, remember constant praise will make this training smooth and successful – don’t move on to the next step until both you and your dog feel comfortable.

2. Start by stroking your dog’s cheek – this will help him to become comfortable with your hand being near his mouth.

3. Let him taste the toothpaste by licking it off your finger or off a chew toy.

4. When your dog has shown they like the taste of the toothpaste move to rubbing it along their gum line.

5. Once you feel your dog is comfortable enough (and this may take a few days) then introduce the toothbrush. Allow him to lick it and taste toothpaste on it. Hold back on putting the toothbrush in his mouth too soon - this could put him off and you’ll be back to square one!

6. When your pup is used to the toothbrush, it’s time to start brushing those teeth. Start gently and focus on the front teeth to begin with. Use the brush in circular motions. You may need to pause to allow them to lick their teeth and the brush. Once you feel confident, move on to the back teeth.

As well as the traditional toothbrush approach, we stock new innovative products to help with dental hygiene. If you are starting out and your furry friend has good teeth you could add Tropiclean Fresh Breath Water Additive to their drinking water. A few drops can keep plaque and tartar at bay and leave your pup with fresh breath. We also stock a number of dental gels and foams that naturally and gently clean the teeth without brushing – just apply to your pet’s mouth daily and you’ll notice a difference.

DIET AND DENTAL CHEWS Your furry friend’s teeth are their knife and fork, crucial for tearing and chewing their food properly. Dental chews and the correct diet have some effect in reducing plaque and keeping healthy teeth and gums.

Feeding your dog a good quality dry food will be much better for their teeth as they have to ‘crunch’ through the kibble and this helps clean their teeth while they chew. If you are feeding your pet wet food, you may want to carry out other dental hygiene activities as your dog will be missing out on the ‘crunch’. Jellies in some foods contain sugar, which will cause a bigger build-up of plaque and tartar – so be conscious of this too.

Chat to us if you’d like recommendations for a dry

food that is packed with nutrients and has a taste which your dog will love.

TOYS

Toys are a great aid to dental care and especially for teething puppies. Like babies they will want to chew things and will inevitably start with the leg of your new sofa! Having chew toys that keep their interest will hopefully give them something to bite and save your belongings! The Rogz Cowboy toys with their teeth cleaning rope head, and the Whimzees Toothbrush Treats are not only fun to play with but will help clean your dog’s teeth.

GROOMING AND VET CLEANING Just like you, your dog should have his teeth cleaned daily but ask your groomer if you would like them to clean teeth at your dog’s grooming appointment. If your pet is already struggling with bad oral hygiene and seems in pain, talk to your vet who can help with deep cleaning and then you can introduce a good dental routine after.

For advice on looking after your dog’s teeth chat to our staff in store at Pet & Country.

38 - 44 Main Street | Ballymoney | T: 028 2766 3513 | Monday – Saturday 9.00am - 5:30pm

SHOP NEW SEASON LINES NOW AT

daisymaeboutiqueni.co.uk 10 Kingsgate Street, Coleraine, BT52 1LB Tel: 028 7055 6020

Forget the dreary skies and dark evenings, spring is just around the corner so it’s time to brighten up our décor with a little help from Paula Sweeney at Fabric World.

By Paula Sweeney at Fabric World, Maydown

With spring on the horizon, I’m looking forward to injecting some colour and style into the store with some of the amazing print trends for 2021.

GLOBAL INFLUENCE We have really missed our travels this past year and as a result this will be reflected in our choices of interior print.

Botanical leaves and flowers are a huge trend illustrating the global influences of a tropical getaway on some distant shore. We can dream!

In particular I recommend the new Caribbean collection from PT. Combining tropical landscapes and rich exotic colours, Caribbean makes a maximalist statement in all living spaces. Featuring luxurious printed velvets, embroideries and coordinating wallpapers, the collection explores the wonders of the Caribbean with cleverly camouflaged monkeys, tropical florals and colourful love birds.

This will transform any space from drab to fab by injecting vibrant colours and print.

Use to cover a statement piece of furniture or make a funky roman blind for dramatic effect.

60 | Local Women Magazine

COTTAGE PRINTS

QUIRKY KIDS

A very simple style of print, using small checks and ginghams mixed with elegant vintage prints and motifs to create a layered look of coordinating designs. This luxurious traditional style is showcased in a soft muted colour palette of pastel lemons and rustic shades.

There are some fabulous new quirky print designs around to brighten up our homes. I love the colour palette of Dino and Away We Go from the Big Adventure collection by PT.

With an abundance of soft neutral shades and inky or denim blues.

I love that the tropical trend has even found its way into our kids’ bedrooms with a new take on the classical jungle theme we all know and love.

I recommend the understated elegance of the Imprint collection by ILIV. Hope to see you all back instore when restrictions are lifted.

But in the meantime, feel free to contact me for a virtual appointment.

BEAUTIFUL BLUES Still dreaming of that poolside getaway and clear blue seas?

The blue shades are here to stay for another year. From soft aqua blues to softer denim blues, the choice is endless.

Don’t be afraid to mix your blue tones, for a stunning effect softer duck egg tones will contrast with richer darker blues.

Local Women Magazine | 61

Get adventurous in the kitchen with firmus natural gas

Did you know that natural gas isn’t just brilliant for heating the home or providing constant hot water (although these benefits are great too), it’s also brilliant for cooking!

I

n fact it’s the top choice of professional chefs, and a growing number of home cooks, too. The reason comes down to precision, consistency, and flavour. Simply, cooking on natural gas is a joy. You can cook food

faster and with greater ease and precision than any other fuel source.

With natural gas, you can control the cooking temperature immediately, unlike electric cookers that take time to heat up and cool down. Natural gas is instant, efficient and is a cleaner fuel choice.

So if you, like many others have found yourself dusting off the cookery books during lockdown and rediscovered the joy of cooking we have some great recipes to try that will get your 2021 kick started in all the right ways.

And if you are yet to venture too far into the kitchen don’t worry there’s still time! Cooking is a skill that requires very little investment and improving your culinary prowess or starting from scratch isn’t as daunting as it sounds with natural gas.

Chickpeas in a spicy tomato and Coriander Sauce (serves 4) • 450g (1llb) dried chickpeas, soaked • 115g (4oz) onions, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1-2 small red chillis, finely chopped • 55g (2oz) celery, finely chopped • 115g (4oz) carrots, finely chopped • 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil • Sea salt and freshly ground pepper • 300ml (1/2 pint) vegetable stock

Take a large, heavy-based pan and sauté the onions, garlic, chillies, celery and carrots in the olive oil for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and add the vegetable stock. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, then add the chickpeas, tomatoes, bay leaf and coriander and cook until the consistency is like a stew, stirring occasionally. Serve in bowls on a sweet potato mash or with a couscous and sprinkle fresh chopped coriander on top.

• 400g (14oz) can of chopped tomatoes drained

To date, over 100,000 customers have connected to natural gas with

• 1 bayleaf

firmus energy and are enjoying the benefits that natural gas brings -

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh coriander, plus extra to garnish

from the flexibility of cooking with gas, to constant hot water, to more

If you do not have time to soak the chickpeas overnight, you can boil them in water for 2 hours then leave them to stand in the hot water for 2 hours. Whichever method you are using, strain the chickpeas, cover with fresh water (and fresh herbs if you have some to hand) bring to the boil and simmer until soft, which will take between 3040 minute. Drain well.

62 | Local Women Magazine

space in the home and garden, more efficient boilers, the convenience of a gas fire at the touch of a button or simply being a better choice for the environment. Homes and businesses interested in making the switch to firmus energy natural gas can find out more by calling 0330 024 9000 or visiting www.firmusenergy.co.uk Add in the 48% less emissions asset.

Looking Forward...

Make the most of the good times in 2021

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Local Women Magazine | 63

JUST 28 AND LIVING WITH ARTHRITIS

West Belfast’s Caitriona Roberts speaks to Local Women about the agony of living with arthritis and her harrowing fight to get a diagnosis – even being written off as an attention seeker - despite displaying a range of classic symptoms.

W

hen you think of someone who has arthritis, you imagine an elderly pensioner who has been affected over the passage of time.

However, west Belfast woman Caitriona Roberts is more than painfully aware that this isn’t necessarily the case.

At just 28-years-old, she has been living with the crippling condition for more than 15 years, having been diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis when she was just 12.

Perhaps more horrifying, however, is the story of her diagnosis – coming after months of fruitless visits to A&E as successive doctors appeared oblivious to the fact that it might be arthritis.

Caitriona explained: “My symptoms came on completely out of the blue, I went to bed one night completely fine and woke up the next day with a swollen ankle - it was the first time anything like this had happened to me.

“We thought it was an injury and I went to the hospital because I couldn’t walk on it, they said it was just a simple sprain.

“I certainly never thought it might be arthritis, I didn’t think children could get it.

“The doctors told me to go home and take paracetamol for it, but it made no difference to the pain and it was just as bad two or three weeks later.”

Caitriona continued on living in agony, making multiple return visits to the hospital over the subsequent months.

Then, as she was getting ready to go to Mass on Christmas Eve, she realised her right knee had swollen so badly that she was unable to pull her tights over the joint.

“I went downstairs to my mum and dad and they could clearly see that my knee was swollen quite badly,” continued Caitriona.

“I did think that maybe because my left ankle was so sore that I was walking slightly differently to try and protect it and that had maybe irritated my right knee.

“We went back to hospital on Boxing Day and were told again that it was a sprain.

“The doctor even suggested to my mum that sometimes teenage girls make things up just so they can get some attention.

“At that point we stopped going to A&E because they weren’t doing anything. ƒ Caitriona was diagnosed when she was 12

“We didn’t know what was happening, mum knew I was in pain but we just didn’t

“At that stage, the pain relief was very limited because I was a child and after a few months, it started to spread and moved into my hands and my hips.”

Caitriona was prescribed methotrexate, a powerful drug used to treat conditions such as arthritis, Crohn’s disease and cancer, which comes with a number of unpleasant side effects.

“I managed to get by on that for a few years but now I’m 28, my disease is still very active, I think I’ve two or three years where I’ve been in remission,” said Caitriona. ƒ Caitriona is unable to walk at times

She was subsequently moved onto another specialist medication which helps to reduce inflammation in so differently. the body but still suffers from painful flares that make “There are more options for pain relief now even the most banal activities almost impossible. that I’m older although I still don’t think it’s “There have been times when my arthritis has been particularly good. unbearable,” she continued.

“University was difficult because I wasn’t able to “You spend so much of your time in pain, but you be as independent and I have had to change my have to overcome it and learn to cope. career goals.

ƒ Caitriona has spent a large proportion of her time in hospital

“I had a classroom assistant in school and even “I always wanted to train to be a barrister but getting up in the morning can be really difficult I’m not sure I will be able to do that because my when your joints are very badly swollen. condition is affected by stress.

“It was very difficult with my family as well because I was always in so much pain and I was exhausted, “At the same time, I was still trying to get by and and I had to put on a front all the time which meant manage the pain with paracetamol which was I had nothing left to give with my family. obviously having no effect at all.”

“I struggled with my sister in particular because know where to go.

A breakthrough finally came when Caitriona’s GP I was off school so much and always going to became concerned with how she was walking hospital for appointments or to get bloods taken. during an appointment for an unrelated matter.

“It isn’t really a visible illness either, so people don’t By coincidence, while she trained to be a doctor, always take it into account that you’re in so much she had spent some time working with Dr Madeleine pain, so it was hard for her to see me being treated

“I’m living with family at the moment which helps and I volunteer for the charity, Versus Arthritis, which is really good as it means I get to speak to other people affected by the condition.

“Living with arthritis is very much a balancing act, you aren’t able to achieve everything that you want to do.

“It affects my ability to work and walk, it stops me from seeing friends and I definitely think the system needs to be improved.”

Rooney, a paediatric rheumatologist in Belfast.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

She was able to spot the tell-tale signs of arthritis and referred Caitriona for an appointment with Dr Rooney the following week.

“It was the first time anyone had mentioned arthritis,” said Caitriona.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is inflammation of one or more of the joints. It first occurs before a person’s 16th birthday.

Within seconds of arriving in Dr Rooney’s office, the specialist confirmed suspicions that Caitriona had the agonising disease.

It is slightly more common in girls and most commonly occurs in pre-school age children or teenagers.

“I had no idea that young people could get it, I remember learning about it in school and it was very much talked about as an older person’s disease,” said Caitriona.

If you have any of these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, you should see a doctor:

“I knew older relatives who had rheumatoid arthritis and it was quite debilitating, but Dr Rooney diagnosed me as soon as she saw me.

“I knew it was something I would have for life, but I was glad I finally had an answer.

“I was so happy that people knew I wasn’t lying or faking, but I still knew it wasn’t something that was going to go away, and I was going to have to try and live with it and cope with it.

ƒ A strict medication regime helps to keep the arthritis under control

•

painful, swollen or stiff joint(s)

•

joint(s) that are warm to touch

•

increased tiredness

•

a fever that keeps returning

•

a limp but no injury.

To find out more, log on to www.versusarthritis.org.

Local Women Magazine | 65

HELPING PROPERTY INVESTORS MEET THEIR GOALS If you want to start a new career in property investment it pays to work with the best estate agents. Mayfair & Morgan offers great advice on making the most of your money.

the average rental prices, the number of rentals in the area, housing demand, rental void periods, and also look at the local amenities in each area together with any development plans in the pipeline.

You want a property that will appeal to both tenants and buyers.

On that basis, we recommend an area located close to shops, schools and transport links as well as a property with the right features tenants love, such as off street parking, a garage, storage space and outdoor areas.

SHOULD I BUY A PROPERTY THAT IS A LOWER PRICE THAN OTHERS? Properties on a lower price point and positioned next to major amenities, lifestyle features and with rising incomes in the area are likely to perform better in the long run. It’s generally easier to sell a property in an affordable location than an expensive one.

Examine the property in detail to see if it has the potential to be renovated, subdivided, extended or redeveloped in the future.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED A GOOD RETURN ON INVESTMENT? HOW DO I GET INTO PROPERTY INVESTMENT? There is no ‘one size fits all’ so research and network with other property investors, as well as contacting an experienced estate agent are good places to start. Know your current financial position, your risk profile, income levels, savings, credit score and equity as they all have a part to play in determining what your chosen strategy should be. Are you investing for short, medium or longer-term returns?

Are you hoping to achieve a regular income or a lump sum return?

Do you want to carry out renovation work or are you looking for no initial expenditure when you purchase a property? Have clear goals so you are not swayed by glossy marketing brochures.

WHERE SHOULD I CONSIDER BUYING PROPERTY?

We like to pick projects that will deliver a growth rate of over 7%. Combine this with a 5%+ rental yield and you should earn a total return on the property asset of at least 12% pa.

This is only a drop in the ocean of property investment so for further advice and details, we recommend coming in and chatting with one of our team. We have been in the business for 40 years and have assisted hundreds of investors meet their goals on their property journey.

Property is all about buying within a budget that will deliver the best capital growth and yield. When deciding where to buy, research is key. Study geographic housing trends which are readily available online. Again, contact a good agent who knows the areas you are keen to consider. Do you want to invest locally so you can be readily available or further afield if returns are greater? Carry out research on your preferred location, what are

23 Fountain Street | Antrim | Co. Antrim | BT41 4BG T: 028 9446 4902 | E: info@mayfairandmorgan.com mayfairandmorganproperty.com | mayfairandmorgan.com 66 | Local Women Magazine

OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINES IN PREGNANCY

Online pharmacy Chemist Connect offers advice to pregnant women on over-the-counter medicines that are safe to use.

It is generally accepted that during pregnancy most women are aware of the need to avoid where possible nonessential medicines.

Sodium bicarbonate is absorbed into the bloodstream and should be avoided in pregnancy.

The issue however is that pregnant women are just as likely to experience minor ailments and indeed are more likely to suffer from pregnancy-related symptoms such as constipation and heartburn.

Try non-pharmacological methods first. A head massage can help relieve headache, while backache can be eased by gentle stretching to relieve tight muscles, or a soak in a warm bath.

So, should you have to grin and bear those headaches, coughs and colds? Or are there over-the-counter medicines that are actually safe to use in pregnancy?

Paracetamol is generally regarded as safe for short-term use in all three trimesters.

HOW DOES A MEDICINE AFFECT THE DEVELOPING BABY? The trimester of pregnancy is often very important. Some medicines can potentially be more dangerous if taken in the first three months but safe in the second or third trimester, or vice versa.

HOW DO WE KNOW WHICH MEDICINES ARE SAFE? The answer is that often we don’t. Pharmaceutical companies rarely perform clinical trials or actual studies of their medicines on pregnant women. As a result, few medicines are licensed for use during pregnancy. Most information we get about safety in pregnancy often comes from practical experience with the medicine over time.

IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN TAKE TO TREAT MINOR AILMENTS? The best way to minimise any risk to your baby is to avoid all non-essential medicines, especially during the first trimester. There are however a number of over-the-counter medicines that are considered safe to use during pregnancy and may be useful in the treatment of the common minor illnesses detailed below.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

CONSTIPATION Try simple dietary measures such as drinking more clear fluids and eating more fibre. If these are not effective, there are a range of laxatives that can be used.

PAIN SUCH AS HEADACHE OR BACKACHE

Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are not recommended during pregnancy.

Codeine and dihydrocodeine can affect the baby’s breathing if taken in the last trimester, or during labour in large amounts.

HAY FEVER AND ALLERGIES Pregnant women with allergic rhinitis are generally advised to try the following steps one at a time: If possible, avoid or limit exposure to the substance causing the allergy.

Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or a wax-based ointment around the nostrils to trap dust, pollen etc.

Rinse inside the nose frequently with a salt water solution (saline). Pre-prepared nasal saline powders and solutions are available from pharmacies.

If this does not help, you can consider using nasal sprays containing medicines called corticosteroids, mast cell stabilisers or antihistamines, and/or eye drops that contain mast cell stabilisers or antihistamines.

Products containing antihistamines, such diphenhydramine, doxylamine, cetirizine and loratadine should generally be avoided.

Nasal decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, xylometazoline, oxymetazoline should also be avoided as there is insufficient evidence of their safety. Steam inhalations should provide some relief from nasal congestion.

COUGH AND COLDS

HEARTBURN AND INDIGESTION

Cough and cold remedies often contain a combination of several ingredients, sometimes up to 5! These include painkillers, antihistamines, decongestants and caffeine so it is important to make sure that each ingredient is safe before taking them.

Medicines such as Gaviscon that contain alginates are safe.

Cough expectorants for chesty coughs containing guaifenesin can

Bulking agents such as ispaghula (Fybogel) are safe.

The stimulant and osmotic laxatives such as senna and lactulose may also be used.

be used to help loosen a chesty cough.

For dry coughs, suppressants such as dextromethorphan is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, providing it is only taken for short periods of time and using the smallest dose possible. However, it is probably best to avoid it in the first trimester. Cough suppressants containing codeine should be avoided in the third trimester.

Soothing cough mixtures such as simple linctus, or sucking lozenges containing honey or glycerol to coat the throat, are the safest option to reduce coughing.

DIARRHOEA Short bouts of diarrhoea won’t do the unborn baby any harm, but diarrhoea lasting longer than a few days can cause dehydration. This can be avoided by taking rehydration salts such as Dioralyte, which are safe to use in pregnancy.

Loperamide should be avoided, as there is insufficient information available to ascertain safety.

VAGINAL THRUSH It is very common for pregnant women to suffer from thrush. If you think you have thrush it is best to consult your doctor or midwife who will advise you as to whether treatment is recommended Sometimes antifungal medicines such as clotrimazole (Canesten) are recommended but they are only used under medical supervision.

ECZEMA, DERMATITIS AND SKIN ALLERGIES Moisturisers or soothing products such as calamine lotion should be your first choice as these are completely safe.

Steroid creams such as hydrocortisone can sometimes be recommended during pregnancy, but their use should be avoided over large areas of skin, for long periods of time, or under dressings.

FOLIC ACID This is the only over-the-counter medicine that is really important to take, both prior to and during pregnancy. One 400 microgram tablet should be taken every day by women planning a pregnancy and for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

This is to help the development of the baby’s spinal cord and nervous system and prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Taking folic acid daily also helps prevent birth defects such as cleft lip and palate.

HERBAL MEDICINES All herbal medicines should be avoided during pregnancy.

Many act just like regular medicines and can contain some of the same ingredients which may be harmful to an unborn baby.

For medicines not covered here ask the advice of either your pharmacist, doctor or midwife. If in doubt, ask!

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Our mission is the three E’s- We want to Embrace, Educate and Enable every business on this island to effectively lead and guide their ‘herd’ to success.

We are a Human Resource Consultancy based in Newry, Northern Ireland. We are a local professional service, helping business owners ensure that they comply with employment regulations and best practice guidelines in a timely, cost effective and efficient manner. We will educate and empower business owners to successfully manage their people, taking the jargon out of HR whilst providing straightforward practical solutions!

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MONTHLY COLUMN

Women’s Health WITH DR MARK MCCOMISKEY

Dr Mark McComiskey MD MRCOG is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon.

Dr Mark McComiskey is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon who trained at the world-famous Christie Cancer Hospital in Manchester. His work has been published widely in peer reviewed journals in obstetrics and gynaecology and his work has been presented at international meetings throughout Europe and North America Dr McComiskey takes a holistic and caring approach to managing all general gynaecology conditions with the aim of maximising women’s quality of life.

Each month Dr McComiskey provides Local Women readers with healthcare advice, dispelling some of the many myths surrounding women’s health.

HOPE AFTER MISCARRIAGE Each month Dr Mark McComiskey MD MRCOG discusses gynaecological conditions and women’s health issues.

Dr Mark McComiskey is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon who trained at the world-famous Christie Cancer Hospital in Manchester. His work has been published widely in peer reviewed journals in obstetrics and gynaecology and his work has been presented at international meetings throughout Europe and North America

Sometimes one or both of these tests need repeating in order to confirm a miscarriage.

This is a stressful time for patients and their families, however, occasionally there is no effective alternative.

WHAT ARE THE MANAGEMENT OPTIONS? •

for one to two weeks after diagnosis of a

Dr Comiskey takes a holistic and caring approach to managing all general gynaecology conditions with the aim of maximising women’s quality of life.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF MISCARRIAGE?

This month Dr McComiskey will look at early pregnancy loss.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MISCARRIAGE? The most common sign of miscarriage is vaginal bleeding which may be heavy or light. Vaginal bleeding is quite common in early pregnancy and does not definitely mean that a miscarriage is happening.

Other symptoms can include cramping, pain, discharge and lack of symptoms of normal pregnancy like sickness, tiredness, breast tenderness.

Any of these symptoms should result in consultation with a medical practitioner as soon as possible.

Ectopic pregnancy can sometimes complicate early pregnancies. This is especially suggested by severe abdominal pain, shoulder tip pain, collapse, diarrhoea or vomiting. This should prompt immediate attendance at hospital for assessment.

KINGSBRIDGE PRIVATE HOSPITAL Tel: 028 9066 7878 www.kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

Expectant management: This is waiting miscarriage to allow for natural passage of the pregnancy sac. If the pregnancy

Often, no cause is identified. The most

sac passes, then a pregnancy test is

common

chromosomal

recommended after 3-4 weeks. If this

abnormality linked to the joining of the egg

doesn’t happen then a further ultrasound

and sperm at conception. This is unlikely to

should be offered and a re-discussion

happen again in subsequent pregnancies.

regarding options.

cause

is

of

a

The risk of early miscarriage is increased with the increasing age of the mother. Other

•

designed

factors include obesity, smoking and drug

occurred. Sometimes the ultrasound scan is inconclusive and a repeat scan along with other tests may be required.

Blood tests to monitor pregnancy hormone (HCG) level may be offered. Two blood tests at 48 hours apart are often recommended. The purpose of this is to check if the hormone level in

the

that

is

natural

monitoring following medication is similar

to have a successful pregnancy (see the

is progressing normally or if a miscarriage has

exists up

if the mother doesn’t want to wait. The

in a row) and many of these women go on

Ultrasound scan will often confirm if the pregnancy

speed

the expectant approach doesn’t work or

experience recurrent miscarriages (3 or more

WHAT TESTS MIGHT BE PERFORMED?

Medication to

approach. This may be a good idea if

and alcohol use. About 1 in 100 women

upcoming article next month).

Medicine:

to that of expectant management.

•

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be offered to remove the pregnancy tissue. Some situations this may happen include very heavy bleeding, infection or unsuccessful other treatments.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A MISCARRIAGE? A miscarriage can be very upsetting for everyone involved, especially the parents. Counselling or support may be required. It can take a long time to emotionally recover from a pregnancy loss.

Any future pregnancy though is very likely to lead

the blood rises (suggesting a normal pregnancy),

to a much better outcome.

falls (suggesting a miscarriage) or remains static

For any queries do not hesitiate to get in contact

(suggesting an ectopic pregnancy).

with myself at info@drmarkmccomiskey.com.

HILLSBOROUGH PRIVATE CLINIC Tel: 028 9268 8899 www.hillsboroughprivateclinic.com

GET HELP WITH PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE The experts at Health Hub Professionals NI can offer help and relief for women who are suffering from pelvic floor prolapse.

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common occurrence • among women - but to discover a ‘lump’ or bulge in the vagina for the first time, or to be told • you have a prolapse, is often a very scary or frightening experience.

Bladder problems – going often/not emptying properly/leakage of urine/frequent infections.

In primary care in the UK, over 8% of women reported • a vaginal lump or bulge, but on examination prolapse • is present in up to 50% of women.

Issues during sex – discomfort/lack of sensation

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the bladder/ bowel/womb move down in the vagina causing the feeling of ‘something coming down’ or a feeling of vaginal heaviness. These organs within the pelvis are normally held in place by ligaments and muscles known as the pelvic floor. When the pelvic floor becomes weakened the organs fall or drop from their natural position.

Prolapse is classified as anterior wall descent (bladder), uterine descent (womb) or posterior wall descent (bowel) and each of these can be graded as first degree (contained within the vaginal cavity) second degree (visible/felt at the entrance of the vagina) or third degree (extends beyond the entrance of the vagina).

Bowel problems – constipation/not emptying properly/having to apply pressure (splinting) to help stool pass.

Increasing symptoms of pressure/heaviness with being on feet too long or at the end of the day WHAT CAUSES PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE? There are many reasons why women develop prolapse – it’s usually a combination of these things that contributes to its occurrence.

1. Pregnancy and childbirth are a major contributing factor – having a large baby, an assisted birth (forceps or vacuum), a prolonged labour and multiple births are all risk factors.

3. Being overweight (more pressure down on the pelvic floor.)

5. Persistent cough or persistent heavy lifting (a lot of pressure downwards on the organs and muscle.)

6. A natural tendency to develop a prolapse (genetic.)

SYMPTOMS Each woman’s experience of prolapse is very individual - for some women it can cause little trouble and for others it can be quite severe causing many problems and affecting quality of life.

The symptoms are varied but may include: • Being aware of a ‘lump’ or something down in the vagina •

Feeling or seeing a bulge

Create good bladder habits – try not to pee ‘just in case’/don’t push or strain to empty your bladder/ don’t reduce your fluid intake to avoid frequency.

•

Create good bowel habits – avoid constipation/ do not strain sit properly on the toilet/don’t hold your breath.

•

Use vaginal oestrogen – vaginal dryness is a symptom of menopause and can make the symptoms of prolapse worse.

•

Use a vaginal pessary – a device that is inserted into the vaginal cavity to support the vaginal walls and pelvic organs.

2. The risk increases with age (natural decline in muscle function.)

4. Chronic constipation (pushing and straining to empty the bowel.)

Graphics by APOPS

•

7. Hormonal changes during the menopause (decreased oestrogen can increase the symptoms of prolapse.)

8. Previous pelvic surgery (a previous repair or hysterectomy increases your risk of a subsequent prolapse.)

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Make lifestyle changes – avoid heavy lifting/avoid prolonged periods on your feet/weight loss.

STRENGTHEN AND TONE YOUR PELVIC FLOOR The pelvic floor acts like a hammock to support your pelvic organs and it can be strengthened and retrained so that it gives effective support making the symptoms of prolapse less bothersome.

An assessment with a pelvic health physio will help you identify issues with your pelvic floor function. The physio can also help you identify the other factors affecting your prolapse so that you can make changes to reduce its affect on your daily life. Having a prolapse is not life threatening but it can cause pain and discomfort and greatly affect quality of life.

There should be no shame or secrecy associated with pelvic floor problems. So, come on ladies; speak up, reach out, seek help.

1 Hyde Business Park, Pennyburn Industrial Estate, Derry, BT48 0LU T: 075 9324 0194

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Full of Sound and Fury Signifying Nothing This month Local Women columnist Myra Dryden reflects on the end of an era for Trump and the beginning of the end as she gets her Covid jab.

T

By Myra Dryden

hat’s life, according to Macbeth when he realised the game was up; and after the violent debacle we have all just witnessed in America I think most of us would have no hesitation in applying the same description to that evil chump, Trump and his henchmen. At this point I simply must quote American critic Lionel Trilling’s very apt observation on the state of the world today: “It is now life and not art that requires the willing suspension of disbelief.”

Now some semblance of order has been restored and President Biden is at last in the Whitehouse getting on with the business of governing, with not a single tweet out of him. And what a journey he has had to get there, at

times filled with incredible sadness and despair. He surely is living testimony to that often quoted saying of Patrick Kavanagh: “ Nobody is important, nobody is major. We all get to our destiny in the end.”

Did you watch his Inauguration? I stood in the middle of my living room, hand on heart, singing along with Land of the free and Home of the brave and with tears streaming down my cheeks. Tristan rang in the middle of it all, to check that I was indeed watching and hadn’t forgotten, and then proceeded to laugh at my sobs over the phone. “Mum!” he shouted. “It’s a happy occasion, wise up. And anyway, you’re not even American.”

I resented that. OK, I’m not but I have begat two fully-fledged American citizens in Maya and Eoin; surely that qualifies me to an extent.

I daresay, readers, you are all remembering here that moment in the Scottish play where the witches prophecy that Banquo will not himself be king but will beget kings. I equally daresay that when Patricia reaches this paragraph she will be straight on the phone to me: “Well I’m a reader and I don’t remember any such thing. And who is this Banquo when he’s at home anyway!”

Furthermore, I have given my eldest son to that country, so all things considered, my blood is in it. Of course I wouldn’t dream of shedding that same stuff for it, no, I keep that for my own nation ( Well

in song anyway). And as to my children’s accusation that I pay more attention to the politics of those fifty states across the pond than to my own country, it’s just that I find much more drama in the events there. I can just hear Charlotte when she reads this: “So, the thirty years of The Troubles here haven’t been enough for you!” Get outa that, sez you. Well, I’ll try.

I received a very welcome letter in the post this morning. I am instructed to present myself at Templemore Sports Complex to get my Covid vaccination next week. I have me sleeve rolled up already. I’m quite excited at the prospect.

Once the three weeks afterwards are over, I am at last going to get to see Jack.

I rang almost everybody I knew, and a few I didn’t to give them my good news, but they were not

impressed. Half of them had already got theirs over with and didn’t think it such a big deal, and the other half didn’t care whether they got it or not; and it was actually said to my face that” little amuses the innocent”. I was totally deflated; but I got over it, thank God, and I am now sitting up and taking notice again, with some light refreshment thrown in, although I’m not so sure that a huge bowl of pasta constitutes light.

At last all the snow has gone. That declaration really shows your age. God be with the days when we woke in the morning to a blanket of snow and couldn’t wait to get out in it. Now I just prefer to read about it, and Thomas Hardy has a lovely poem on the subject which I hope you will like:

Snow in the Suburbs Every branch big with it, Bent every twig with it, Every fork like a white web-foot, Every street and pavement mute: Some flakes have lost their way, and grope back upward, when Meeting those meandering down they turn and descend again.

The palings are glued together like a wall, And there is no waft of wind with the fleecy fall.

A sparrow enters the tree, Whereon immediately A snow lump thrice his own slight size Descends on him and showers his head and eyes, And overturns him.

And near inurns him, And lights on a nether twig, when its brush Starts off a volley of other lodging lumps with a rush.

The steps are a blanched slope, Up which, with feeble hope, A black cat comes, wide-eyed and thin: And we take him in.

Better still, on those far-off halcyon white days were the times when it became too cold and the school was closed and we could spend our days frolicking in that lovely white stuff. I say frolicking but I have never frolicked in my life. It is a word more associated with middle class children in Enid Blyton’s stories: the ones whose language is peppered with, “I say!”, “Jolly good show!” and “Well done old thing.”

And that was just the six year olds.

But I have always liked the word and regret that I never had the opportunity to use it in either of my employment settings.

It certainly would not have gone down well in my Geriatric night duty reports: “Mrs Lumbsdon had to be given Largactil at 3am to put an end to her frolicking.” And in class later on: “ Your son was sent to detention again for frolicking in History” would not have been welcomed on reports to parents who would have preferred the unvarnished truth: “ Your son wrecked the classroom.”

a first year student nurse on men’s surgical, where a card was waiting for me in the office when I came on duty that morning. “ You seem to have an admirer,” sister said dryly, pushing the envelope towards me. “ You’re in the sluice”, she added, deliberately quashing any foolish notions I might be harbouring.

So, in that most unromantic of settings, between testing urines and scrubbing bedpans, I read: “Pardon my mush, but I have got a crush my baby on you.”

I had no clue as to the sender, and it wasn’t

I have just been reminded that this month will see the Chinese New Year in, and the animal for the next twelve months is the Ox, described as generous, patient and determined on the positive side, while on the negative side gloomy, stubborn and insecure.

If your birthday this year can be divided by twelve then he’s your man.

My Chinese astrological sign is the rooster; and, apparently, I am married to a pig, we have reared for certain a rat, a monkey, and a horse, and one we are not quite sure about because he was born on what has been described to us as ‘the cusp’.

Something that never ceases to amaze me to this day is that my mother-in-law was also a rooster, because we seemed to have absolutely nothing in common. And I always felt inferior and inadequate in her presence; because that paragon of womanly virtue could, in the immortal words of Peggy Lee, “Wash forty pairs of socks and hang them on the line, feed the baby, wash the car and powder her nose, all at the same time. Cos she was a woman,

W O M A N” My academic achievements cut no ice with her, but then that’s mothersin-law for yee. ‘nough said.

Another important event this month is, of course, Valentine’s day. I wouldn’t thank you for a valentine; just as well ‘cos I never got any. Except for that one occasion fiftyeight years ago when I was

until a year later, when I discovered Frank Sinatra, that I realized it was a line from one of his songs. I’d like to say that I never gave it a second thought but I’d be lying; because I was shy and lonely and had never had a boyfriend, and could not even believe, at that stage, that anyone would fancy me. I kept that card till we both fell apart.

Now to someone else who fell apart, though more recently: Did you hear what Trump did today? No? Neither did I. Isn’t it wonderful.

A BEAUTY QUEEN WITH A DIFFERENCE Newly crowned Miss Universe Ireland, Nadia Sayers from Omagh, is using her own experiences to raise awareness of mental health issues and make a change. #MOXIEMindset Pictures by Alexandra Barfoot

W

hen Nadia Sayers told people that she wanted to be a model when she was younger, they laughed.

But, as she was crowned Miss Universe Ireland, it looks like the stunning red head from Omagh got the last laugh.

With her amazing hair, beautiful face and gorgeous figure, Nadia is the picture-perfect beauty queen – but she didn’t always feel like she was model material.

“I have pale, freckly skin and red hair, so I guess I’m not your average beauty queen says Nadia. “I hope my journey gives all those little girls out there, who don’t feel like they conform to beauty stereotypes, hope that they are as good as anyone.”

Added to her doll-like, delicate, stunning good looks, Nadia is extremely articulate and a passionate mental health advocate.

Her aim in entering Miss Universe Ireland was to raise awareness of mental health issues particular those affecting young women like herself.

Growing up, Nadia suffered from depression and low mood, and even considered ending her own life at her lowest point.

But she bravely chose to speak out about her experiences, and during the Miss Universe Ireland competition process, she reached out to others who may be suffering.

Nadia explains: “As a young girl growing up, like many other people I felt I wasn’t good enough. I struggled to find my place and my mood was up and down.

“A breakup with a boyfriend triggered the lowest part of my journey and I considered suicide. I felt like I had nowhere to turn to.

“Depression is such a taboo subject and so personal, I felt embarrassed and ashamed to talk about it.”

Nadia, who now works as Youth Development Officer for the mental health charity Hope 4 Life NI, thankfully was able to access the help and support she needed to make positive changes to her life.

78 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Miss Universe Ireland, Nadia Sayers

But she recognises that there are not enough resources available for young people in Northern Ireland and wants to use her reign as Miss Universe Ireland to highlight this.

She wants to encourage young people to find their voices and become part of the process of change.

She says: “I hope to highlight the importance of young people’s voices, to encourage and empower young people to use their voices for their own benefit, and to stand up for what they believe in. We have seen this happen at times, especially this year, and this is how we create positive change in society, every single voice matters and can make a difference. We need to harness that power and use it to positively impact our own lives and the lives of others. Working in

mental health, too many times I have been told by a young person that they don’t speak up about problems because ‘nobody want to hear.’

“We need to encourage everyone to use their voice, to prioritise their mental wellbeing by being pro-active as opposed to re-active and develop those ‘well-being toolkits’ and strategies early. I am a big believer in talk-therapies, and I do feel that they are positive resource to be used - get regular top ups because life can get heavy! If you don’t off-load that in a healthy way, it’s going to weigh you down and impact your day to day, just like if you avoid the dentist for years!

“I want to highlight some amazing charities and community organisations who do wonderful work with people in mind all of the time. They work to better their communities and help people, and I feel that they need support and recognition. I am always on the lookout for more wonderful groups to learn about support and work with!”

both global research and our own grassroots discussions in our programmes to empower

Clearly Nadia is no ordinary beauty queen, because while she looks amazing in a bikini and can walk the catwalk with the best of them, her intelligence and wisdom shine through.

people to understand that simple changes can

She is proud of her work within Hope 4 Life NI where they believe that everyone has a basic right to good mental health with the emphasis on prevention.

where we share the stories of our own young

“As a team we are committed to working for this right to become a reality for all within Northern Ireland, Ireland and the UK,” says Nadia.

community groups to share the stories with young

“The team deliver programmes that have been shown to positively impact the lives of many.

We share the knowledge and experience from

up about problems without feeling vulnerable or

and do increase resilience and enable longterm wellbeing.

“I currently work on ‘The Uberheroes’ programmes, people,

through

the

use

of

comic

books,

superheroes and villains, in an age-appropriate way. We bring these comic books into schools and people, and springboard into a conversation about mental health, enabling them to both open exposed and develop tools and strategies that will benefit their wellbeing through life.”

NADIA’S JOURNEY TO MISS UNIVERSE IRELAND With lockdown and travel restrictions, the Miss Universe Ireland pageant was a little different this year. Nadia explains the process behind her entry.

I​t began with an online application process, as it does every year. We told the team about ourselves, our interests, our passions and why we wanted to compete for the title of Miss Universe Ireland.

Then we submitted videos so that the team could get to know us more and could get a feel for our personality.

Once the Top 12 was announced, we all took part in a series of online and social media home assignments, my favourite was the ‘#Unfiltered Series’ where each contestant opened up so that those who follow Miss Universe Ireland could get to know us and our social causes on a deeper level.

We then took part in our first round of interviews (virtually of course!),with the amazing Miss Universe Ireland team and judges, as well as submitting videos of both our bikini and evening

gown walks for judging.

The Top 7 contestants were then announced, who went on to do a further two interviews, as well as a social media challenge.

We had to show that we could create good quality content through social media for the organisation, charities and sponsors, as social media is our main channel of connecting and communicating during this pandemic. This social media challenge comprised of creating three social media posts, one in evening gown (mine was sponsored by The Wildrose Boutique), one is our interview outfit (mine was second hand from a charity shop - all about the pre-loved purchases!), and one in our sponsor Liliana Montoya’s bikinis.

The purpose of this was to showcase our personalities in a way that may be necessary with restrictions always changing, utilising

our creativity, exhibiting our dedication and showing that #MOXIEMindset - that fighting, evolving spirit.

Finally, the Top 7 pre-recorded a closing statement. A short video that the judges would view if you were chosen in the Top 3, this would determine the winner.

At each stage, we were given training, that is one thing that I have been asked by girls who are considering competing next year - quite a few of the girls this year, as well as in previous years, had never competed before.

You don’t necessarily need to have experience; Brittany and the MUI team give you an abundance of group and one to one training.

I would definitely recommend that anyone considering applying, keep a close eye on the social media pages, as well as mine.

What have you got to lose by applying, right?

Local Women Magazine | 79

‘MEMBERS MATTER MOST’ AT KRD CREDIT UNION

Claire Doherty from KRD Credit Union Ltd explains how members can benefit from a range of loans and financial advice during these difficult times.

Hello Local Women readers,

opportunity to tell you about the options

I’m back as your columnist for this latest issue

available. By taking control of your finances

of Local Women, to update you on how KRD Credit Union Ltd is working hard to meet our members’ needs in these challenging times.

2021 has not kicked off in the way we may have

hoped,

with

a

further

lockdown

impacting on our daily lives in the fight against COVID-19. However, as we continue into the new year, we can still make time to think

and minimising all those direct debits and standings orders, you could give yourself some real peace of mind – at a time when we all need it most.

That’s just one of the ways we’ve been helping our members over the last few months via the loans we offer here at KRD. However, it’s far from the only type of loan we’ve been

ahead and plan for the future – and that’s

seeing lately.

where KRD comes in.

I think we can all agree that we’ve spent more

It’s fair to say the effects of the pandemic will

time than ever before staring at the same four

be felt for years to come, and our finances are never far from our minds. Particularly as so many are finding themselves unable to work, or on reduced salaries. For those people who

walls as we’ve been staying indoors. So much so, we’ve had that niggling urge for a change!

Some

home

improvements

could be the ideal DIY

are struggling with their outgoings as the bills

project for lockdown.

mount up, we ask that you get in touch.

Whatever the purpose

Have you thought about streamlining your

for borrowing, it is of

outgoings and looking at debt consolidation?

If you have, then we at KRD Credit Union Ltd want to hear from you. We can then get the

from the comfort and privacy of your own home. It’s so simple and means we’re all doing our part in keeping ourselves,

the utmost importance

services in a manner that members

family

and

the

Of course, our offices have remained

Credit Union to offer our our

our

community safe.

to all of us here at KRD

keeps

and

our staff safe. The entire loans process can be done using our fantastic online facilities. You can apply, submit any necessary documents and even sign for your loan using our DocuSign options.

Speaking of our online loan applications, I’m thrilled to see how quickly our members have taken advantage of the online loan facilities since their introduction last year. Over 1000 loans have now been signed electronically and we’re delighted. Not only is it quick,

11 Main Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6AN

easy and efficient – it’s also completed

25/27 Church Street, Kilrea, BT51 5QU

open throughout lockdown to offer our essential services to those members who are unable to avail of our online options.

Keeping sanitisation as our top priority every single day and using a one-way system all helps our members stay as safe as possible and adhering to social distancing regulations.

It’s all part of our commitment to keeping our members safe. ‘Members Matter Most’ at KRD. Until next time,

Claire D 18 Main Street, Dunloy, BT44 9AA

www.krdcreditunion.com | P: 028 2954 1007 | E: info@krdcreditunion.com Find us on Facebook and Instagram KRD Credit Union Ltd is Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. KRD Credit Union Ltd is covered by the UK Government’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) and the Financial Ombudsman Service.

PRA Reg. No. NI 574095: Companies Registration No. CU76 Northern Ireland

80 | Local Women Magazine

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Looking good, feeling good and dressing for success Stylist Mary McGuigan will help you invest in yourself to create the best version of you.

How many times have you bought an outfit (online these days!) thinking it will make you look sophisticated and stylish, only to try it on and feel crushingly disappointed?

The little black dress that was supposed to make you look effortlessly chic with a hint of Parisian style, but in reality, makes you look washed out, the hem is a frumpy length, and your tummy is doing you no favours.

It’s so demoralising when the idea of an outfit you have in your head just doesn’t materialise in real life.

Why does this look not work on me? How can I wear patterns? Why don’t I look business-like even when I wear a suit in work?

This is where stylist Mary McGuigan from Corporate and Creative Image can help you.

Mary has long been fascinated by how some women dress for success and can look totally polished in and out of work.

Mary set up Corporate and Creative Image to help women find a look that suits them and gives them the confidence to stand out from the competition.

Using colour analysis and a range of styling techniques, Mary can unlock the secrets of looking good all the time.

She hosts workshops and one-to-one style consultations as well as online sessions so that she really gets to know her clients and find out what works best for them, taking into account work, lifestyle and personality.

She has a ‘less is more’ attitude to styling and helps women to create that all important capsule wardrobe and stops them from wasting money on clothes that don’t make them feel and look their best.

Her aim is help working women express their own style and feel like themselves while presenting a polished and stylish look.

Having worked successfully with many women, Mary knows how important image can be.

She says: “We are judged on our appearance within seconds of meeting someone, use it to

your advantage!

“I know there are many other women like me who just want to run a really successful business, look really polished but feel like themselves too.

“Image is more than what we wear, it is our body language, our self-image and our goals.

“I understand about getting passed over for promotion, about feeling over dressed, under dressed and about wanting to make a difference.

“When you dress and align with your personality and lifestyle you welcome the right people and opportunities.”

WHERE DID THE IDEA OF CORPORATE AND CREATIVE IMAGE COME FROM? I have always been fascinated by the image of successful people, especially women. Women like Madonna and Michelle Obama who wear clothes like armour to present an image to the world. I really look up to a lot of strong female role models.

However, I feel we as women need to raise our visibility as there is still a gender gap that exists.

I'd heard about colour analysis and how certain colours made you stand out, so I decided to employ a range of personal styling services for myself. I read tonnes of books and consulted with image consultants/mentors from across the water. I was really hooked on the idea and once Covid-19 hit I had every opportunity to partake in various training sessions so I could eventually run a business. I am not a girly girl, but it doesn't mean I don't care about my image or what I wear.

HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT SETTING UP CORPORATE AND CREATIVE IMAGE? I set up my Instagram page as Corporate and Creative a few years ago as a creative outlet to escape my corporate life. I had worked in Accountancy and Finance for over 10 years.

I always had an urge to help people be more successful in their business but when you work in that industry you are really only expected to crunch out the numbers. I am a creative and empathetic person, so while I understand corporate life, I felt I was suited to a different career path.

WHAT COMMON MISTAKES DO WOMEN MAKE WHEN IT COMES TO STYLE? Buying too much black! It really only harmonises with about 25% of people. We are too dependent on it, because we were told by the media that it makes us look slimmer but there are so many alternatives that would do the same and highlight our beautiful features. People also think they have to buy a new wardrobe - this is not the case, you've got to believe in using a seamstress to get clothes altered, trying second hand and in shopping sustainably.

HOW DO I 'PUT TOGETHER' AN OUTFIT? Well, the reason clients come to me is because they want to feel 'put together.'

Start with knowing your colour palette. My wardrobe has everything in my palette. I have less now than what I did two years ago but everything goes, new outfits emerge from it all the time. Know the styles and cuts of clothes that work for your proportions, scale, personality and lifestyle.

I WANT TO CREATE A CAPSULE WARDROBE - HOW DO I START?

After getting married and having my four children I decided it was time to put my career happiness first. I vowed to find something more colourful and creative and took on many different projects and selfdevelopment programmes.

WHAT IS YOUR WORK BACKGROUND? I have worked since I was 11! I have worked in restaurants, hospitality, accountancy and finance. I also have a degree in Business and Finance and am a part qualified accountant.

This is why I work really well with business clients because I have come across almost every issue that they have.

TELL US ABOUT THE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH A CLIENT? I usually always recommend a colour analysis first and foremost.

Once you enter the world of colour you won’t turn back! It is a real "a-ha" moment for clients. Even for people who work in very disciplined industries like banking, legal and accountancy where they are probably only allowed to wear navy and black etc, there is still a way for you to make what you wear your own. I also provide services on style identity and selfimage and work with business clients who want to project a certain image or who really want their employees to feel empowered and thus more productive.

HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE STYLE? Style is a way of saying who you are without having to speak.

It also tells other people how to treat you.

I'm going to keep this as general as possible as everyone has a different lifestyle and of course we have Covid-19 which has introduced the tracksuit to the capsule wardrobe! All of the following should be in your colour palette and reflect your personality and style: •

1 x Winter Coat in your best neutral colour

•

1 x Lightweight Coat in your colour

•

3 x Blazers/Cardigans/layering pieces 2 in neutral and 1 in accent colour

•

8 x Tops in a mixture of plain and print

•

6 x Bottoms - trousers/jeans/skirts

•

3 x Dresses - belted/layered

•

1 x Suit in high quality, dark neutral if necessary, for formal business

•

2 x Evening outfits (if we ever get out again!)

•

5 x Shoes/boots

•

2 x Belts in neutrals

•

1 x everyday bag in good quality (medium-large) • 1 x small bag • Jewellery - 1x ring, necklace, bracelet • 1 x pair of gloves, scarf, sarong, sunglasses • Sports and hobby wear as required

WHAT CLASSIC PIECES DO WE ALL NEED IN OUR WARDROBES? Everyone has a few 'Colour Commodities' - these are your very best colours and the ones that you absolutely should invest in. There's about five or six out of the 40 colours in your palette that will really make you pop. One of mine is olive. I suggest having pieces in those colours. On those days where you feel demotivated or you forget to set your outfit out the night before - these colours will serve you. Colour really lifts our mood and develops our confidence and I'm a big believer in strengthening our mental health right now.

KAMALA IS DRESSING FOR SUCCESS Take inspiration from the Vice President of the USA, Kamala Harris, who knows how to make an impact.

While there was definitely a monochromatic purple theme going on, Kamala was absolutely wearing a great shade of purple for her at the Inauguration. We know that this was a bipartisan product of their party colours of blue and red as well as a suffragette colour however there is an overall vibe of female empowerment, leading the way forward.

Spiritually purple helps people align themselves with the universe, great choice in the Vice President role! Purple like pink is a strong feminine colour however dark purple shows more authority and authenticity which absolutely suits Kamala’s lifestyle. She could have chosen black or navy, but she is saying, “I’m a female and I’m here to stay!”

She is such a classic lady in her style, very understated in her footwear and jewellery but it is of very high quality. There will be a no fuss approach with Kamala’s image because this lady hasn’t had time for fuss in getting to where she is, but she is nonetheless determined to create an impact and she is someone I admire very much.

Follow Mary on Instagram @corporateandcreativeimage or email her on corporateandcreativeimage@gmail.com

GET RUNNING WITH KAREN! If you have ever dreamed of starting to run, now is your chance.

Karen Daly is offering a Run for Love course absolutely free.

Hey guys, I am sure many of you are trying divide your time between home schooling, work, house, family and partners while at the same time also trying to stay fit and healthy….not easy I know!

challenge and complete it together!

My goal after that was simply to keep running. I don’t think I have ever run during winter but right through Christmas I continued to run about 1015km per week, which I am super proud of and my audio books have now hit over 20 completed!

So, this month we have a very special offer for you….you can join our Run for Love course FREE!

Lots of our Academy Members were looking for me to set up another running course as many joined in with me last time so as a lockdown gift, I decided to set up a FREE running course ….after all knowledge increases in value the more it is shared!

www.theacademymasterplan.com What is run for love you might ask?! Well in 2020 at the start of the first lockdown my sister wildly suggested that we run 20km for my father’s 20th anniversary on the 20th of June, 2020 ….you can imagine my horror and mixed emotions. She is living in New York and wasn’t going to be able to get home and felt it would be a challenge to keep us busy through lockdown as well as something nice to do in memory of Dad. At the time however I was barely running 3km and I really didn’t believe that I could do it in just 9 weeks. But off I headed for my first 3km and absolutely hated every single second of it!

The following weekend we managed to rope in two more of my five siblings and whilst chatting to my brother and moaning about the ominous task ahead, he shared something that changed my feelings around running forever!

So, we have all planned to run on the last weekend in March – some members are running 3km, some 5km, some 10km and I have decided to do a half marathon which is just under 22km!!

He assured me that at 44 years of age, speed was never going to be my strongest skill, so rather than set out every week to beat my previous time I should download a podcast or audio book and seek enjoyment rather than speed ...GAMECHANGER! I bought myself some headphones and off I went keeping a slow and steady pace and every week I add a few more kilometres to my weekly total.

At times my head would race too far ahead, and I would hear myself thinking, “Sure I will never be able to do 20km when I can’t do 7km!” But each week I taught myself to ignore the voices and focus on thoughts that help speed me up not slow me down and learned that your legs don’t give up, it’s the head that gives in!

Before I knew it, I was running 15km in just 8 weeks and had also listened to five audio books, so for me this was win, win. Learning as I ran!

Many of the members have NEVER run before and are loving it already! We have only just started so there is lots of time for you to join us and run for yourself in memory of someone you love!

You’ll find the FREE course on our website www. theacademymasterplan.com as well as all our weight loss courses including our ‘lose one stone in a month’ plan!

Remember, some say you stop running because you get old, but I believe you get old because you stop running!

Stay safe.

Hugs always,

Instagram @masterofweightloss Strava Runforlove2021 Website www.theacademymasterplan.com

I listened mostly to running books… books on endurance athletes as I figured if some guy or other girl could run 240 miles then I could do this!

Then when the day came myself and my two brothers ran from our family home and my sister ran in New York – she has decided to do 20 miles - she is just 27 and she was well fit for it despite the 30-degree heat!!

And guess what? Yes, we all did it!! The emotion was something I will never forget and although thousands of miles apart, we felt closer than ever, so we were thrilled to have set ourselves an epic

JOIN OUR SIX WEEK COURSE NOW! LOTS OF MEMEBERS LOSE ONE STONE IN SIX WEEKS

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MENTAL ABUSE MATTERS New project is unveiled to educate victims and perpetrators of mental abuse using virtual reality.

T

he woman behind a charity set up to help victims of emotional and psychological abuse has welcomed the creation of tough new domestic abuse legislation in Northern Ireland.

ƒ Lucy Baxter

The Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Bill will mean that coercive control becomes an offence here for the first time.

A person convicted of the worst offending will face up to 14 years in prison.

Justice Minister Naomi Long also introduced separate legislation to make stalking a specific offence in Northern Ireland.

Lucy Baxter, Chief Executive of Mental Abuse Matters and a film lecturer at QUB, said she was encouraged to see that the wide-ranging bill covered emotional abuse and that the use of children to abuse a partner was now an aggravating factor. Parental alienation is something the charity is concerned about and will be the subject of its next creative project.

But she is keen to see greater education and awareness around healthy relationships and preventative measures to stamp out mental abuse.

“While it’s important that perpetrators will feel the full force of the law and that victims will feel empowered to speak out, what we’re interested in as an organisation is preventative relationship education, therapeutic interventions and healthcare training tools to deal with the epidemic proportions of mental abuse in our society,” says Lucy.

“People often do not grow up understanding what a healthy relationship is, and they go on to repeat abusive patterns that they have learned.”

Lucy, who is also a filmmaker, said mental abuse had physical and psychological effects and was often a precursor to physical violence. She also pointed out that it could lead to depression, self-harm and thoughts of suicide and that healthcare practitioners often suspected there were issues with mental abuse in the relationship dynamics of a patient but lacked the time to diagnose and deal with this effectively.

As part of an awareness campaign, Mental Abuse Matters has put together an animated film in collaboration with Belfast company Enter Yes and is working on a pioneering live action virtual reality (VR) project with partners Queen’s University, Future Screens NI, Retinize and Darkley Film. The VR tool for victims - and perpetrators - of mental abuse, will provide first-hand experience of what it is like to go through it. The project will be rolled out this spring and Lucy hopes it will be used as a training tool for medical, therapy and care staff to improve trauma diagnosis and care and that it will encourage dialogue in schools about healthy relationships.

“The first-person narrative is just over 10 minutes long and when you put on

the headphones, you become the victim,” Lucy explains.

“For purposes of this one, it is an intimate partner, male to female abuse, but there are future plans to cover parent/child abuse and parental alienation.

“The setting is a dinner party with friends and the aim is to make it as visceral as possible so you feel in your own body the emotions that the victim will be feeling.

“There will be immersive sounds, replicating feelings of anxiety, panic and dread, such as base sounds in the chest, fast breathing, building up to a panic attack. But the user will be given the chance to get out of it, if triggered, and go into a safe space.

“It’s all about replicating the emotions associated with mental abuse and to see what it feels like to be isolated in a social situation.”

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HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Its rich composition sets BioRePeel Cl3 apart from its competitors. 4-6 treatments, every 7-12 days.

BioRePeel is excellent in anti-ageing due to it containing all the essential amino acids and vitamins your skin needs. It also contains 35% TCA ( for HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST? face and neck) and 50% TCA ( for body)and GABA (Gamma Aminobutyrric Your beautiful skin will last around 1-2 months.

Acid) which is a muscle relaxant and thereby reduces wrinkles.

However, this may vary dependent on lifestyle, skin structure, age As a result, the combination of active components allows it to effectively and degree of perfection demanded as well as homecare. prevent the ageing of the skin. Also, it decreases damage from UV light, pigmentation or acne. The essence of the treatment lies within its mild exfoliation. In addition, the powerful stimulation of biosynthetic processes restore the structure of the skin.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OUR BIOREPEEL? • Rejuvenated and brighter skin • Revival of dull skin • Removal of dead skin cells • Even skin texture and tone • Great for large pores and oily skin • Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles • Smoother, softer skin • Eliminated pigmentation and reduced effects of sun damage • Reduction of inflammation and breakouts caused by acne • Hydrated and nourished skin • Stimulated collagen production for plump and youthful looking skin • There is no preparation or downtime required • It exfoliates, removing dead skin cells encouraging skin to regenerate • It reduces Acne with its anti microbial and antibacterial properties

It is recommended to have this treatment on a monthly or bi-monthly basis for optimum results.

WHAT IS IT USED FOR? It is a biphasic medical device for topical use. It is used for the face, neck, and décolletage to treat fine lines & wrinkles.

In addition, the treatment is also suitable for younger skin. It helps during acute stages of acne, removal of blackheads, and with recent or “fresh” scaring.

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT DURING TREATMENT? After a facial cleanse, BioRePeel is applied to the skin, during this treatment you will feel a tingling sensation. It does not hurt, put simply it just feels like you have ‘refreshed’ skin. This stimulates the skin to trigger a healing process that rejuvenates it. This treatment is then neutralised and afterwards a hydration serum is applied and finished with a SPF50.

The peel is a non peeling peel meaning there’s minimal downtime, maybe a little redness. Excellent for that brighter tighter look .

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On the palate it is crisp and lively and has good length with a clean finish which means it matches really well with lots of foods like grilled chicken or fish, seafood or salads, you name it. Lightly chilled is best to allow all the aromas and flavours to shine.

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Lesley McGarrity Local Women Columnist

Local Women Magazine | 101

WRAP UP AND GET OUT! We might be in lockdown but get up, get out andget fit. Here’s some great active wear from Kular that will keep you cosy when you exercise outdoors.

Three Ways to Enjoy Exercise this February It might be easier to stay indoors, wrap up with a blanket and binge on Bridgeton but we all know how great it feels to say we’ve been outside and enjoyed some kind of daily exercise.

Gyms are still closed, and motivation is at an all-time low. But with this month’s column, we’re giving you three different ideas that will help you enjoy exercise again.

Get your Bubble on Board

Getting active doesn’t have to be a chore – you can make it as much fun as you like. Encourage the people in your household to get on board and make it part of your routine. Why not schedule in a daily walk or run somewhere close to your home? You could explore local forests or spend some time at the beach if it’s within your local proximity. We’re lucky to have lots of beautiful landmarks on our doorstep to choose from.

Get together with Friends

We’re all missing our friends right now, and it seems like forever since we last caught up with them in person. While we might not be able to for another while, we can still get together virtually and work out online via Zoom or Google Hangout. Send out an invite and get your besties together for a virtual yoga or aerobics class. You could 102 | Local Women Magazine

even make it a bit of fun and sign up to an online dance or Zumba class. Even if you don’t burn off those January wines, you can laugh on the phone afterwards at how ridiculous you looked trying to master the moves.

Get competitive

Another great way to get active this February is to set yourself a challenge. It’s safe to say we’re all feeling a little down and out, but what better way to inject some excitement into your life than a daily challenge. The sense of achievement at the end will boost your mood and you’ll feel even better for it. Some ideas include: • Walking 5,000 to 10,000 steps a day • Jogging three times a week • Hike up a local mountain • Try cold-water swimming at your local beach Whatever it might be, try to get your friends and family involved too – you could even set up a dedicated group chat to motivate each other every week.

Wrap up in Style

It’s important to wrap up while you’re enjoying all this outdoor activity. You might work up a sweat if you’re working out, but it is still super cold in February so a few layers are a necessity.

We’ve lots of great unisex layering pieces online from The North Face and Napapijri that can work for both men and women.

Long-sleeved t-shirts, a fleece and a heavier coat will keep you feeling toasty while you’re tackling the elements. And don’t forget about your hat, scarf and gloves.

All these pieces will take you into Spring because let’s face it, we’re never too blessed when it comes to Mr Sunshine.

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kularfashion Local Women Magazine | 103

THE PERFECT VALENTINE

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RELATIONSHIPS ARE VITAL TO OUR WELLBEING Ali Templeton from Relate NI talks to Local Women about how to keep relationships healthy during these stressful times when we are spending long periods of time together.

As we find ourselves in the middle of another lockdown, many women are under increased pressure as they try and juggle working from home, childcare as well as the often-arduous task of home schooling.

These next few weeks will be intense for many of us and this can affect our relationships. To help you and your family weather the storm as one, Ali Templeton, Clinical Lead at Relate NI is offering some advice on how you can negotiate new challenges even when you are under pressure.

“Our relationships are essential foundations to our health and wellbeing.,” explains Ali. “Through our experience of supporting people and their relationships we’ve come to understand that relationships not only give our lives meaning, but they are also of vital importance to our wellbeing.

“But women’s relationships are under pressure at the moment. After a turbulent year and a potentially difficult Christmas,

financial and other pressures might have begun to show up in our relationships. This can be exacerbated by the expectations we put on ourselves and our partners.”

within our families may be exacerbated when we are unable to communicate effectively or after we have spent long periods of time together.

“And as individuals, our relationship with ourselves “For mothers, there may be additional stresses may be suffering. Perhaps we are feeling from trying to juggle working obligations or demotivated, noticing persistent anxiety or that home working whilst also overseeing the home- we are not being kind to ourselves. schooling of our children, who are growing “Our expert counsellors have pulled together the restless and beginning to wonder when this will all tips below to help you negotiate the challenges be over so they can get to see their friends again. you may be facing, helping you to relieve the “As daughters and sisters, relationship issues pressure as we face a brand-new year.”

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Coleraine

This may allow you an opportunity to inform your children and prevent them from worrying about things more than they need too. Perhaps you can share with them some of your own feelings and how you cope with these.

MAINTAINING YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PARTNER With the best will in the world, rows can be quite likely when you are feeling under pressure. It’s how you deal with conflict when it arises that counts. Try to move away from always needing to be ‘right’ with your partner because that means that they of course have to be ‘wrong.’ Explore how you can both have your needs met and how compromising can create mutually supportive solutions.

It is a particularly difficult time for new relationships but on the plus side, this will be a good test for your relationship. Make sure to regularly check in with each other about how you are both feeling, and identify areas where you can support each other.

All relationships face pressure at some point and when it happens early you can find out some important things about your partner like how they are in a crisis, whether they can give you the support that you need and perhaps what some of their biggest fears and hopes are.

Reading to each other is a really nice way to do something intimate and sensual without the expectation that you’re going to come up with any hilarious or fascinating insights yourself.

RELIEVE THE PRESSURE ON YOUR CHILDREN

Young people may be feeling an array of emotions right now including disappointment, fear, frustration or even relief. It’s important that you take time to validate their feelings by encouraging them to talk about how they feel with you or a member of your family.

Include children and young people in decisions as much as possible. Listen to their hopes and wishes and be respectful of their feelings. Encourage them to be active participants in setting boundaries.

They will see that their opinions matter and be more likely to honour the guidelines set.

OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OURSELVES IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ONE WE HAVE

having a baby. At the heart of maternal mental health are relationships – between mum and baby, family members, health professionals and across society.

It is important if you are feeling mentally unwell during the perinatal period that you reach out to your relationships for support, whether it is a new feeling or an existing illness is being exacerbated. There are also great perinatal peer support groups online through the Maternal Our relationship with ourselves is the one that Mental Health Alliance, where you can speak to is with us all day, every day. Despite having other women with lived experience of what you an internal voice talking to us throughout the are going through. day, we sometimes forget to take notice of our Feelings of inadequacy are normal, but try to personal wellbeing. remember that what your baby needs most is No matter the pressure you may face, it’s important that you continue to be kind to yourself. you. It’s a proven fact that your face is the most Much of the pressures we face are due to external interesting thing in the world to your baby and circumstances and through no fault of your own. even during pregnancy your baby can sense You can however take steps to relieve the pressure and learn from the outside world and how you’re feeling. Therefore, simply being with your baby on yourself. and involving them in your daily activities is As individuals we can become lost in our enough right now. But do remember to take time relationships. It’s important to carry on your to be kind to yourself, as this will in turn benefit own interests. Spending time apart to do some your baby. reading, enjoy a bath or work on your New Year’s Resolutions will allow you to cherish family time IT’S NORMAL TO SEEK SUPPORT Regular relationship maintenance can help when you return to it. you relieve the pressure on your relationships MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH before it gives rise to unhelpful conflict. We More than 1 in 10 women develop a mental illness have put together a series of digital resources during pregnancy or within the first year after which provide practical ideas and tips to relieve the pressure on your relationships with yourself, your partner, your children and your family.

Relate NI’s team of skilled and professional counsellors are also available to help support people and their relationships.

To access Relate NI’s free digital resources, visit relateni.org/relieve-the-pressure or call 028 9032 3454 to enquire about relationship counselling.

SHOP EAT ENJOY LOCAL

Limavady Local Women Magazine | 107

Looking forward to Spring at

Gasp Boutique

We are all getting used to shopping online and at Gasp Boutique, the new season’s styles are dropping daily. Let’s see what we can look forward to this Spring/Summer.

Hello to all my readers, Yet again as you all know our doors are currently closed but we are as busy as ever selling online and offering you all wonderful bargains. We like to keep you all in the shopping mood and what better way to do this during these unprecedented times than through our social media platforms?

I am so looking forward to opening my doors once again and feeling a sense of routine and normality in our daily lives.

I am sure you are all feeling the same while longing for the bright sunny summer days to shine upon us - this will lift our mood along with our physical and mental health. But in the meantime, we must all stay positive and keep going.

I thought I would give you a quick insight into what has been showing on the virtual catwalks for Spring/ Summer 21.

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MONOCHROME MAGIC Designers showed a collection for black and white most often known as monochrome. At Dolce & Gabbana, chequerboard patchwork dresses utilised archive rolls of fabrics from previous collections while at Chanel crisp layering showed a new mood of summer.

COATS WITH AN ARRAY OF MIXED FABRICS AND COLOURS. While 2020 was quite literally been about isolation, these designers have splashed out with the notion that it is about time to stand out from the crowd. What better way is there to approach that than in a brightly hued statement coat. Come spring, you will have your choice of stripes, patchwork, and checks. Just look at these coats from Burberry, Christian Dior and Dolce & Gabbana! I have to be honest, I don’t think I would actually ever sell one of these at Gasp.

GO XXL It is all about oversizing with XXL shirts.

It is time to go and raid the hubby’s wardrobe and dig out his shirts , these large, oversized shirts were all over the designers’ virtual catwalks. I actually think they might be over doing the home comfort desires - however it is most definitely comfort at its best.

The have reimagined the XXL Shirts in bright shades of pink, yellow and orange, done up as dresses, shown extra-long and extra wide, or with proportions that simply make you look twice. Shown here from Michael Kors, Balenciaga, Coach and Valentino.

FLOWER POWER From daisies to lilies, name your favourite flower because I am sure you will see it this season on every shirt and dress that lands on every showroom floor. The bolder the brighter and the more impactful seems to be the way forward for some designers this season! So, how does your garden grow with all the floral motifs in sunny yellows, on neon tulip dresses, and on gala worthy ball gowns in shades of pink. I just hope we get a good summer to appreciate these vibrant shades, but I have to say that they are a mood booster .

COMFORT WEAR MIX The new working from home routine certainly influenced what designers turned out. How else to explain the mood for wide leg trousers made for bold strides, floaty sheer maxi dresses with noticeable hoodies , as seen with Prada , and pencil skirts with bomber jackets, as seen at Max Mara. I noticed this year that a lot of designers have tried to mix a sporty look with that casual skirt or pants and combine the two into a funky everyday wear. I think this is because the casual look has dominated the fashion scene especially during the pandemic and they are looking for a way to think out of the box .

That is all for this month , I really do hope you are all

keeping safe and well and please feel free to browse our online store, where I am showcasing bargains every day on

www.gaspboutiques.com Keep safe and well.

Regards,

Ann Doyle Proprietor of Gasp Boutique Armagh

Local Women Magazine | 109

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Less is more or accessorise?

With the array of jewellery, hair pieces, veils and tiaras on offer, it can be confusing when picking your accessories for your big day – but at No.8 Bridal, they have all the answers.

H

i everyone,

This month I have decided to talk about bridesmaids and bridal accessories. Even though we are in lockdown I have been inundated with messages and emails with your queries about bridesmaids and bridal accessories. So, I’ve decided to dedicate my column this month to answer just some of the most common queries.

1. Should I wear a necklace, earrings, headpiece and bracelet on my wedding day?

Well, this all depends on the style of your dress and personally I am a firm believer in ‘less is more.’

Remember your dress is a statement whether or not it is fully embellished with crystals and pearls or a more classic look with very little detail.

Most of our No.8 brides wear a headpiece, we either make it specially to suit their dress or we match one of the many we have in stock. If you choose to wear statement earrings, then I would recommend no necklace, however you could wear a matching bracelet to finish of the look.

2. Can I wear a headpiece and a veil on my wedding day?

Yes, you can. My advice would be to get a hair trial and then look for your bridal headpiece.

Our No.8 brides usually book their hair trial and then come straight to our bridal accessories department where we fit or design your headpiece and try a variety of veils to help you decide on the look you would like. We also design veils to suit your dress so don’t worry if you can’t find what you are looking for. As we are still in lockdown we can try our best to help you by Zoom consultation.

3. Do all my bridesmaids dresses have to match in colour and shape?

A simple no to this question.This is entirely personal choice, my only advice would be to make sure the colours you choose blend well and complement each other and your wedding dress. Also, with shape and style - keep it simple and choose styles, or necklines that complement your bridesmaids. Afterall if they

are happy and confident in what they are wearing they will look fabulous.

4. Should my bridesmaids wear hairpieces and jewellery?

I would opt for less is more. Diamante or pearl crystal earrings are always a great option and normally earrings and a bracelet are enough to finish the look. Hairpieces are not essential for bridesmaids however we have made small brooches into hair combs recently for a bride and they looked amazing on all the girls.

8 James Street, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone T: 028 8676 7109 www.no8bridal.com michelle@no8bridal.com

5. My bridesmaid has found out she is pregnant, what if her dress doesn’t fit?

Let your bridal shop know as soon as possible.

Depending on when your bridesmaid is due in relation to your wedding, you can check if the dress can be altered to suit her new shape or delivery time for a new dress. Best advice is to work with your bridal shop, and they will guide you. There’s a solution for everything, so don’t panic.

Remember you can call into the store when restrictions are lifted, and in the meantime just send us a message or email any of your bridal enquiries on michelle@no8bridal.com or check out our website www.no8bridal.com.

Until next month,

Exciting News No8 Bridal and our sister company Hall & Guild have moved to our new premises for when we reopen. We can now be found at:

The Holmes 73 Urbal Road, Coagh Co. Tyrone, BT80 0DP Until next month, stay safe,

Michelle x Local Women Magazine | 111

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LW WEDDINGS

Aileen Liam BRIDE: Aileen McElwee from Bellaghy GROOM: Liam Kerrigan from Randalstown CELEBRANT: Father Kevin Mulhern PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: Joseph and Eileen McElwee PARENTS OF THE GROOM: Kevin and Carmel Kerrigan CHIEF BRIDESMAID: Irene Cushnahan BRIDESMAIDS: Sheena McGuckin BEST MAN: Ciaran McGuckin GROOMSMEN: Leo McElwee FLOWER GIRL: Alice McElwee and Caoimhe McGuckin PAGE BOYS: Padraig OKane and Shea McCartney

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LW WEDDINGS

Emma

Danny

BRIDE: Emma Coleman, Derry GROOM: Danny Breslin, Derry BRIDE’S FAMILY: I have two mammies - a Derry mammy Doreen White and a Dorset mammy Anita Harris. My daddy passed away.

GROOM’S PARENTS: Una Breslin and Daniel Breslin WEDDING DATE: December 21, 2020 VENUE: The White Horse Hotel, Campsey BRIDESMAIDS: Jennifer McLaughlin, Enya Breslin, Chloe White and Faye Breslin BEST MAN: John Davis GROOMSMAN: Ethan White and Tiarnan Breslin HAIR AND MAKE-UP: Ciara Smith DRESS: Bridal Showroom, Derry and Elaine McCloskey FLOWERS: Flowers By Ian PHOTOGRAPHS: Gerard Gormley and Jamie Mollisson

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LW WEDDINGS

Yvonne Graeme BRIDE’S PARENTS: Christine Thompson and Michael Thompson, Cullybackey GROOM’S PARENTS: Grahame Weeks and the late Celia Weeks from Belfast

Our original date was our shared birthday 20th May, 2020, but we had to postpone due to lockdown.

We initially postponed until October but quickly changed our minds and postponed a full year until May 2021 to allow more time for Covid-19 to pass.

However, at the beginning of October we got fed up with the changing restrictions and decided to bring our wedding forward to November - we just wanted to be married. However, the country then went into a circuit breaker which forced our venue to close again. We took the decision that rather than postpone again and put ourselves through more uncertainty, we would rearrange everything within three days. We managed to get married on 18th October, 2020 - the day before our venue closed its doors. In the end we had five proposed wedding dates in total!

As everything was rearranged at such short notice our wedding attire wasn’t ready, Graeme’s suit hadn’t been made and my dress wasn’t altered, but we didn’t care.

We just wanted to get married so we went casual and it was so relaxed, it was lovely.

Due to my father being extremely vulnerable to Covid-19, we opted for just three guests, my mum Christine, my dad Michael and sister Selina (who was supposed to be my only bridesmaid/maid of honour). We enjoyed a lovely meal with our celebrant after the ceremony, then went home.

We are hoping to have our reception on our birthdays this year, 20th May if restrictions allow.

It wasn’t how we planned our day, but we couldn’t be prouder of our little big day.

LocalWomen WomenMagazine Magazine| |109 117 Local

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LW WEDDINGS

Siobhan Brian Jude BRIDE: Siobhan McKernan from Creggan, Co Tyrone GROOM: Brian Jude Glackin from Cookstown, Co Tyrone DATE OF WEDDING: October 22, 2020 (postponed from June) CEREMONY: St Oliver Plunketts, Creggan, Co Tyrone MAID OF HONOUR: Nicola McAleer (sister of the bride) BRIDESMAIDS: Kerie Loughran (sister of the bride) and Shauneen Smith (friend of the bride) BEST MAN: Kevin Glackin (brother of the groom) GROOMSMEN: Conor Glackin (brother of the groom), Mark Anthony Nugent (friend of the groom) BRIDE’S DRESS: Amore Bridal Wear, Derry MEN’S SUITS: Ultimate Menswear, Derry BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES: JJs House FLOWERS: John Paul Florist, Derry PHOTOGRAPHER: Lynn Stanfield VIDEOGRAPHER: T9 images CARS: Glendale, Omagh CHAPEL DÉCOR: Ultimate Touches, Derry PHOTO LOCATION: Tullylagan Country House Hotel, Cookstown

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LW WEDDINGS

Niamh Tomas BRIDE: Niamh White, from Jonesborough GROOM: Tomas English from Forkhill DATE: 17th of December, 2020 LOCATION: St Patrick’s Church Dromintee RECEPTION: Ballymascanlon House Hotel MAKEUP: Mrs Makeup PHOTOS: 4everPhotos HAIR: Michelle’s Hair Salon FLOWERS: David McConkey Floral Couture DRESSING OF WEDDING: Martina Crilly DRESS: Pnina Tornai

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Weddings at the 4* Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa Start your wedding adventure now!

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THE GATE LODGE Our new civil ceremony venue

To make an enquiry please contact our Wedding Team on sales@ballyliffinlodge.com or +353 74 93 78200

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Established since 2000

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PORTSTEWART FAMILY DENTAL

For 20 years Michele King and the team at Portstewart Family Dental have been proudly serving the people of Portstewart and the north coast.

It was 20 years ago, at the end of last month, that Pete and I took over the Practice! Since 2001, it has been our greatest honour and pleasure to have been able to serve you and the community we live in. During the same year our eldest daughter Molly was also born, so for us it was a very exciting year. The Practice has gradually grown from 400 patients to approx. 3000.

During this time, we moved location into the same building as Portstewart Family Practice, a family run Medical Practice owned by the Harleys.

We have gradually added to our skills base now providing services in addition to the general family dental services. Some of these include: • Surgical procedures • Implant procedures and bone grafting • Orthodontics • Digital Dentistry, smile makeovers, 3D digital scanning, imaging and printing.

• Zoom tooth whitening, Ultrasonic scaling and air polishing.

• Laser • Facial Cosmetic procedures: Wrinkle Reduction, Eyebrow lifts, Facial fillers, Tear troughs, Lip augmentation, Cheek augmentation, Dracula Facials, Nefertiti lift and Profhilo, plus many more.

Every patient that comes to us is different and there is no one remedy for all patients. We understand that the best outcome is achieved when we consider each person’s unique needs with the most advanced and safest techniques available.

As one of the established dental surgeries in the Causway Coast region, this special 20-year anniversary is a very proud moment, and one that comes with an immense amount of gratitude.

OUR TEAM We would like to say a huge thank you to our devoted staff, past and present, from our receptionists to our nurses, from our dentists, to our dental hygienists.

We are truly grateful for your professional, dedicated, and passionate work!

Day in day out, the team has always fulfilled their duty to provide our patients with the very best dental treatment and the warmest welcome.

OUR PATIENTS We would also like to thank our incredible patients that have been with us on this journey, we are forever thankful for your support. It has been our sincere pleasure to be able to serve you, and your continued faith in us is very much appreciated. We cherish each and every single one of you and your families!

What an amazing 20 years! Here’s to many more!

Thank you,

6A Lever Road │ Portstewart │ BT55 7EF │ Tel 028 7083 2798

www.portstewartfamilydental.co.uk

THE

PERFECT

WA L K I N G

C O M PA NI O N

AVA I L A B L E I N OV E R 395 LOCATIONS ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND