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HOUSE & HOME
THE ARTS
WINTER WALK
ARTFUL AGEING
PROJECT INSPIRATION
CHARITY DANDER
12 week art project, by EastSide Arts and supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland, aimed at breaking down isolation, amongst older residents in East Belfast
Whether it’s a declutter that you’re after or a refresh; Jill from ReFound is at hand with some tips to help you get started on THAT project you’ve been talking about for ages!
Kick off the winter chill with the annual sponsored walk for Cancer Fund for Children. With various locations dotted around the country, you can get involved on foot
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NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
HIS TORY STORY >>> LEGENDARY EAST BELFAST HISTORIAN AIDAN CAMPBELL HAS BEEN AWARED A BEM IN THE NEW YEARS HONOURS LIST. A TRULY FASCINATING MAN, WE HAVE THE NEWS ON THE HONOUR PLUS SOME BACKGROUND ON HIM AND HOW HIS PASSION FOR LOCAL HISTORY BEGAN. WWW EASTBELFASTHISTORY.COM
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3,000 • BALLYMACARETT 4,170 • N’ARDS RD & SYDENHAM
HONOURS
EAST BELFAST HISTORIAN NAMED IN 2017 NEW YEARS HONOURS LIST Aidan Campbell’s best-selling books celebrate the history of East Belfast and raise money for local charities. To date Aidan has raised a staggering £136,000. £100,000 of this through sales at Hillmount Garden centre alone. His encyclopedic mind holds a wealth of facts and figures from East Belfast.
ongratulations to East Belfast man Aidan Campbell BEM who has been named on the New Year’s Honours List 2017 just as it has emerged that sales of his books at Hillmount Garden Centre have raised a remarkable £100,000 for charity. Aidan had been collaborator with our publications over the past five years and its has been a joy from the very beginning. His knowledge is astounding and his now legendary talks are spellbinding. Aidan joined Robin and Alan at Hillmount Garden Centre to celebrate reaching the impressive milestone as they congratulated him on his selfless fundraising. Robin Mercer of Hillmount
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said: “We would like to congratulate Aidan on his well deserved BEM and on the news that sales of his books about East Belfast have raised a staggering £100,000 at Hillmount alone. We have had a long relationship with Aidan and we are indebted to our customers as it’s their generosity that has raised £100,000 from their book purchases for the range of charities that Aidan supports. I’m sure that the money raised will be a real boost to the great work being done by the charities who benefit from his fundraising efforts.” Aidan is originally from Woodvale in North Belfast and came to live in East Belfast around 27 years ago. His
PICTURED ROBIN AND ALAN MERCER OF HILLMOUNT GARDEN CENTRE CONGRATULATE AIDAN CAMPBELL BEM ON HIS NEW YEAR’S HONOUR
first foray into history research came when he was a student in 1977, as he explains. ‘For my thesis I completed ‘The Giants Causeway Tram’ which was a business history 1883-1949. I investigated how it came about and why it came to an end. That was my first piece of
history and research along those lines.’ Following this he worked for international soft drink brands, managing sales nationwide which led to a lot of travelling. He then worked for himself for 15 years as a management consultant. Aidan had to then retire through ill health due to
/// AIDAN’S BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE DIRECTLY FROM MARIE CURIE HOSPICE, HILLMOIUNT GARDEN CENTRE, HAMILTON NEWS CREGAGH OR ON-LINE AT AMAZON
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#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
LOOP PUBLISHING•PRINT•DESIGN
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WHAT’S INSIDE
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CONTENTS
SALES • ACCOUNTS Juanita Collins juanita@loopmag.net LOOP PUBLICATIONS LTD 436 NEWTOWNARDS RD BELFAST BT4 1HJ
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# 2 5 • FE B R UAR Y 2 0 1 7 / W E LCOM E TO LOOP Welcome to the February edition. Inside, a jam packed issue of news, info, events and a host of features dedicated to you.
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14
15
HEADLINES AHOY
ALL THE INFO
THE WINNERS
LOCAL NEWS
COMMUNITY
EAST SIDE AWARDS
All the very latest news from East Belfast and beyond every month
A round up of all the latest community news and some expert advice
We have the full run down on the winners of the innaugral awards
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20
KEEPING WELL
STAR PUPILS
LOCAL SCENE
HEALTH & WELLBEING
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
THE ARTS
A selection of very healthy features for you from heart to eyes to hair
We bring you all the very biz from the hard working classrooms of the East
A local artsist profile, a new exhibition and a great initiative for older residents
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26
28
AIDAN CAMPBELL
INSIDE OUT
MAIL MATTERS
HOUSE & HOME
THE GREAT WAR AND EAST BELFAST
Aidan Campbell BEM looks back at the postal delivery system from days gone by
Advice from Jill @ Refound, a look at Lloyd Loom furniture plus Ikea news
Jason Burke with news from the East Belfast & The Great War Research Project
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THE LOCAL GUIDE
ICE BREAKER
ALAN HALL REPORTS
WHAT’S ON?
SPORT
A one page round up of all the events, groups and classes happening east side
Latest news plus the incredible achievements of a local ice hockey star
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JUST AROUND THE CORNER FROM THE NEW CS LEWIS CIVIC SQUARE Every month; All things East Belfast with the latest news, views, events, features, recipes, tips, advice, sport, schools, history and much, much more! If you have something to share with 42,000 households in East Belfast, get in touch...
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Magazine
LOOP
Time for a New Kind of Politics “RHI and the Assembly crisis sums up everything that is wrong with the big parties at Stormont: rotten corruption and sectarian sabre-rattling”
– CoURtney RobInSon
Use this election to:
Vote 1
l Reject this corrupt, right-wing establishment l Organise to oppose Stormont’s welfare cuts l Elect a campaigner for working-class people in East Belfast l Demand LGBT equality and a woman's right to choose l Build a cross-community alternative to the politics of sectarianism and division
Courtney
Robinson 07470047524
courtney@labouralternative.org
facebook.com/courtney4eastbelfast
04 • HEADLINES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// News HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16.
PICTURED L-R RNIB NI & Avoneil’s Over 50’s
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STORY >>> MORE THAN 30 COMMUNITY GROUPS FROM ACROSS BELFAST HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY A DAY OUT AT THE WORLD’S LEADING TOURIST ATTRACTION WWW TITANICBELFAST.COM
STORY >>> BELFAST CITY COUNCIL HAS ANNOUNCED THE NEXT PHASE OF THE COUNCIL’S £105M LEISURE TRANSFORMATION PROGRAMME. HERON BROTHERS LTD WILL NOW BEGIN WORK ON THE LARGEST SINGLE CAPITAL CONTRACT EVER LET BY THE COUNCIL. THIS INVOLVES THE CONSTRUCTION OF THREE NEW LEISURE FACILITIES ACROSS THE CITY REPLACING THE EXISTING FACILITIES AT ANDERSONSTOWN LEISURE CENTRE, THE ROBINSON CENTRE AND BROOK ACTIVITY CENTRE. WWW BELFASTCITY.GOV.UK
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
CITIZENS
LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS ENJOY TITANIC BELFAST ON CITIZENS’ DAY
Having recently been crowned the ‘World’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ at the prestigious World Travel Awards, Titanic Belfast, to say thank you for the support in 2016, in partnership with Q Radio Network, gave away 2,000 complimentary tickets to the Titanic Experience on Sunday past.
itanic Foundation, working with Titanic Belfast, secured an additional 500 tickets to be circulated to the local community, which included RNIB, Avoneil’s Over 50’s, Short Strand, Youth Initiative West Belfast, Upper Springfield Trust and Engage with Age. These groups consisted of
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families, young people, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. Kerrie Sweeney, Chief Executive of Titanic Foundation, said, “Citizens’ Day is a fantastic initiative and a great way for people to engage in something as a whole family or community group, and enjoy it whatever their age. Feedback
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
STORY >>> WE CONTINUE WITH OUR PROFILE ON RECENT NEW YEARS HONOUR AIDAN CAMPBELL, NOW BEM. WWW EASTBELFASTHISTORY.COM
partners, well-known personalities, politicians, sports stars and businesses. Tickets to our Citizens’ Day was our way of showing our appreciation and we were pleased to extend this with Titanic Foundation to local community groups as part of our Year of Access. We hope the local community groups and our other local guests enjoyed the Titanic Experience.” Titanic Belfast generated £105 million in additional tourism spend for the NI economy in its first three years and sustained around 893 jobs each year in the wider economy. It is also currently recruiting for 60 new positions for its front of house team for the busy season ahead.titanicbelfast.com.
CITY SCAPE
Contractor Appointed for Belfast City Council’s £105m Leisure Transformation Programme The two stage design and build contract was awarded following a competitive tender exercise. Preparatory works are already underway at the Robinson Centre, with building also scheduled to start this summer at Andersonstown and Brook. All three new centres are due for completion by summer 2019.
n line with the council’s ‘Social Clause Policy’ Heron Brothers will also be required to deliver the contract in such a way so as to maximise the social, economic and environmental benefits for Belfast and its people through training and employment opportunities and, where practical, using local suppliers for goods and services. Speaking about the award, Councillor John Hussey, Chair of the council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee stated: “The delivery of this phase of the council’s Leisure Transformation Programme will result in three new, state of the art, leisure facilities for the city. This contract represents a major investment by the council and underpins our commitment to ensuring that everyone across the city has access to modern, fit for purpose leisure facilities”.
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Each of the new centres will have a unique selling point with the new Andersonstown Leisure Centre focusing on family fun leisure waters, the Robinson Centre becoming the aquatic centre for the city, and the new Brook Leisure Centre targeting outdoor sports provision. Each centre will also have a range of associated facilities such as fitness suites and exercise studios. These redevelopments represent the next phase of the council’s £105m Leisure Transformation Programme which is designed to transform the council’s ageing leisure estate and ensure everyone in the city can enjoy the benefits of a more active and healthy lifestyle. This coincides with the official opening of the new leisure facility at Olympia. The new centre on Boucher Road will be the most modern and advanced leisure facility in Northern
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
HIS STORY
from the groups has been very positive and we are delighted to have had the opportunity to offer a wonderful, multisensory experience that is accessible for all.” Charlene from RNIB NI, said, “Citizen’s Day was a very enjoyable and interesting day. Thanks to Titanic Foundation and Titanic Belfast for the tickets - the day made such a difference for our group with sight loss and helped us feel connected.” Tim Husbands MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast, said, “Home is where the heart is for Titanic Belfast. We recognise that Northern Ireland got behind us in our bid to become ‘King of the World’ at the World Travel Awards, from the public, industry
HONOURS
AIDAN CAMPBELL’S NEW YEARS HONOUR being diagnosed ...with a brain tumour nine years ago. ‘It damaged my balance centre, I had to learn how to walk again and couldn’t eat or swallow solid foods and my memory was affected. They were tough times and I didn’t think I was going to make it but I came out the other side and I have got back on track. I get tired easily and have to pace myself but I put all my business skills to good use now to raise money for several local charities including Marie Curie, Guide Dogs, Multiple Sclerosis and Mission to Seafarers. Back in 2005 the manager of Marie Curie Hospice, where I was a ward volunteer, said it would be really nice to get a couple of pages of history as to how the Marie Curie Hospice came about for inclusion on the website for the 40th anniversary of the Marie
Ireland. £2.75m was provided by the Department for Communities as part of the NI Executive’s Stadium Redevelopment Programme. The new centre is only the first phase of the £21.75million Olympia Sports Village development and with the next phase including the demolition of the old centre, an exciting new boulevard entrance will be created, as well as a new playground and outdoor sports pitches. Following on from these developments, Belfast City Council also has ambitious plans for a further phase of works to redevelop Templemore Baths (which has recently been awarded £5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund), Avoniel Leisure Centre and additional leisure related facilities at Girdwood.
Curie Hospice at Kensington Road. With my research experience I took on the task of working on it. Then I started to meet people, discovering fantastic photographs. Suddenly the two pages turned into a manuscript so someone suggested writing a book to raise funds. Only thing was I didn’t have a clue how to write a book! I also managed to secure two very kind sponsors who covered the printing costs.’ The book, called ‘Beaconsfield’ after the name of the grand house that used to stand on the site, sold well. Aidan then started giving talks around East Belfast and word spread. Soon people were coming to him with material and photographs which led to the second book entitled ‘Knock’. A series followed over the next 11 years including Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk, Castlereagh, Cregagh,
Continued from front page
Stormont, Belmont, Sydenham, East Belfast Revisited Volumes 1 and 2, Newtownbreda, Belfast Through Time and Ballymacarrett which makes 14 books in total. The content in each and every book will take any East Belfast resident’s breath away. The archive material and comprehensive information is a wonderful insight into the roots of our community and the series has been a phenomenal success raising £136,000 for charity. ‘Now that the books are a success, it’s lovely because people come up when my wife Christine and I are out shopping and ask if I’m the man that writes the local history books and tell us they might have something for the books. I’ve given 400 illustrated talks to date and the readership is getting bigger. I was speaking to a lady once who provided
me with some interesting material for a book and commented ‘I never really thought our lives were interesting back then, until I saw it in your book.’ So sometimes people just need a different perspective on things and when the story is told, they see it differently.’ And after such an honur bestowed on such a deserving man, the last word to Aidan, ‘Every good act is charity. A man’s true wealth hereafter is the good that he does in this world to his fellows. – Moliere’ Aidan’s book include; Stormont, Belmont, Sydenham, Newtownbreda, Ballymacarrett, Castlereagh, Cherryvalley, Cregagh, Gilnahirk, Knock, Stormont. Available from Marie Curie Hospice, Hamilton News Cregagh, Hillmount Garden Centre or on-line at Amazon
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06 • HEADLINES
/// News HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16. GET IN TOUCH stuart@loopmag.net
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www.loopmag.net STORY >>> LABOUR ALTERNATIVE
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017 NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
ADVERTORIAL FEATURE
YOUNG CANDIDATE CALLS FOR A “RETHINK” AFTER RHI SCANDAL 19 year old activist, Courtney Robinson has announced that she will once again contest the Assembly election for Cross-community Labour Alternative
“In last election, Courtney received the highest vote of a labour candidate for a generation. Since that election Courtney has been busy campaigning against cuts to services in East Belfastand has continued to campaign for LGBT equality and a women’s right to choose including as an organiser of the “Abortion drone” protest which challenged Northern Ireland’s outdated abortion drone. Courtney has also signed up to ‘Re-Think - a labour movement agenda for change’ - a five-point policy platform launched by leading figures in the trade union movements. This platform is also supported by the Labour Party in Northern Ireland, Labour Alternative and “others committed to real change.” It is about rebuilding a labour opposition in Northern Ireland of people who will campaign for equality, oppose austerity and seek to unite people across the sectarian
divide. Courtney believes that more people than ever are looking for an alternative. ‘The RHI scandal and the subsequent crisis sums up everything that is wrong with politics at Stormont; rotten corruption and sectarian sabrerattling. It is just the latest in a long list of scandals which expose the cosy relationships between the Stormont establishment, bosses and property developers. DUP, Sinn Féin, Alliance - they all support handouts for big business and cuts for us.’ ‘The main parties are trying to turn this election into a sectarian headcount. I’m asking for your vote to help rebuild the anti-sectarian, labour movement tradition in East Belfast - a tradition which is not Orange or Green, but Red; a tradition which fights against poverty and can be a real opposition to the political establishment; a tradition which is needed now, more than ever.’” NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
CHAR ITY STORY >>> FLEET FINANCIAL MARKS 20-YEAR BUSINESS MILESTONE BY RAISING THOUSANDS FOR HOPE FOR YOUTH NI WHICH INCLUDES WORK ON PROJECTS IN EAST BELFAST WWW HOPEFORYOUTHNI.COM
CUIS INE STORY >>> THE STORMONT HOTEL IS LOCATED JUST MINUTES FROM BELFAST CITY CENTRE, ADJACENT TO STORMONT CASTLE AND OVERLOOKING THE BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS OF STORMONT ESTATE AND IS SOMETIMES FORGOTTEN AS A HIDDEN DINING GEM IN THE EAST OF THE CITY! WWW HASTINGSHOTELS.COM
PICTURED COURTNEY ROBINSON (MIDDLE) AT PROTEST AGAINST CUTS TO YOUTH SERVICES
FUND RAISING
Fleet Financial Puts Local Charity Drive Into First Gear
L-R Philip Miley, Sales and Marketing Director of Fleet Financial and Noel Lamb, Chair of Hope for Youth NI’s Board of Trustees.
rojects include the ‘Love our City’ project from Dreamscheme NI, operating across the Braniel, Belvoir, the Four Winds and Newtownbreda which challenges young people to create pieces of art, video or music that celebrate the reasons why they love their area. Philip Miley, Sales and Marketing Director, Fleet Financial, said; “Hope for Youth is making a real difference to communities in Northern Ireland, creating new and groundbreaking opportunities for our young people to be creative and to work as a team to focus on goals which they can share. With the support of our colleagues, partners, customers and friends, we are thrilled that we can donate such a significant amount of money to a charity which is delivering
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NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
NI’s leading contract hire and vehicle management provider Fleet Financial has donated £31,000 to Hope for Youth NI as part of a major fundraising initiative. The substantial sum raised was part of a range of initiatives launched by Fleet Financial in 2016 to celebrate two decades of business growth and success. The funds will be used to drive a range of new cross-community projects in disadvantaged areas which are focused on young people and are designed to foster teamwork, creativity and friendship-building across NI. such valuable and meaningful work at grassroots level across a range of targeted projects.” During the last 20 years, Hope for Youth has raised over £1m to support cross-community projects for young people aged 11-18 in Northern Ireland regardless of their background. The projects are focused on developing teamwork, creativity and personal life skills, especially within the arts, music and the great outdoors. Noel Lamb, Chair of the charity’s Board of Trustees, said; “This is a hugely generous donation from Fleet Financial, which will enable and drive projects that will change and shape lives. Our projects provide unique opportunities for groups of young people from a range of backgrounds to
get together with a shared goal, to collaborate and to enjoy working together in a fun and creative environment. Thanks to the support of Fleet Financial, we can embrace this diversity and in doing so create an enhanced Northern Ireland today and long into the future.” Launched in February 1996, Fleet Financial has played a leading role in supporting businesses across the UK and Ireland and is officially Northern Ireland’s Best Fleet Provider following consecutive award wins at the Business Eye Fleet Awards for two consecutive years. Fleet Financial is also the highest-ranking Northern Ireland fleet company in the UK’s official Top 50 list as compiled by industry bible Fleet News.
FOOD & DRINK
DELIGHTFUL DINING AT THE STORMONT HOTEL The hotel’s La Scala bistro offers a fabulous Dine with Wine menu, available Sunday to Thursday from 5pm to 7pm and until 9pm for the month of February.
Diners can enjoy two courses of the very best of local produce along with traditional favourites and a glass of wine for only £18 per person. The full bistro menu is served daily for both lunch and dinner and boasts the freshest and finest local seasonal produce with a contemporary twist. Enjoy an afternoon of pure indulgence and relax with a delightful Afternoon Tea at the Stormont. Catch up with friends and family over cups of the finest steaming teas and coffees, finger sandwiches, freshly made pastries and an array of delectable homemade treats, you can even add a touch of sparkle
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and upgrade to the Champagne Afternoon Tea! Served daily in the lounge from 2 – 5pm for only £18 per person, this is a delight not to be missed! Or why not treat the family to the Stormont’s famous Sunday Buffet Lunch which promises a fantastic five course dining feast for everyone with all the traditional hearty favourites and desserts to die for! Every Sunday in the Grand Ballroom from 12 – 2.30pm priced £27 for adults and £12 for children aged 6 – 12 and under 6’s eat free. Enjoy the family deal for £75 for two adults and two children under 12 which includes a jug of cordial.
REGENERATION
The Stormont has something to offer diners whatever they fancy so do be sure to call in and see for yourself. To book call 028 9065 1066 or for further information go to www.hastingshotels.com
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08 • HEADLINES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// News
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
£50 MILLION INVESTMENT IN BELFAST RECENTLY COMPLETED - INCLUDING SOME NEW EAST SIDE LANDMARKS
HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16.
Over £50 million of investment in Belfast has been completed as 2017 begins. The update on the significant progress made in Belfast City Council’s Capital Programme over the past two months was given to Members at the first council meeting of the New Year, on Tuesday, 3 January.
GET IN TOUCH stuart@loopmag.net
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STORY >>> A NUMBER OF KEY INVESTMENTS FOR BELFAST WERE RECENTLY COMPLETED. SOME YOU WILL BE VERY FAMILIAR WITH IN EAST BELFAST. PLUS THERE IS NEWS FOR SOME SIGNIFICANT NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN 2017 TOO. WWW BELFASTCITY.GOV.UK
he key elements of this investment include new staff accommodation at 9 Adelaide, the new Olympia Leisure Centre and the Connswater Community Greenway. Councillor John Hussey, Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee said “This significant investment is a sign of the council’s confidence in, and commitment to, the city. We’ve set ourselves ambitious targets in the Belfast Agenda around growing the economy, creating new jobs and attracting foreign direct investment and international visitors so that we can improve quality of life here for everyone. This investment is about putting the foundations in place for that growth to take place, and for the private sector to follow our lead in realising Belfast’s vast potential.” The new £27 million 9 Adelaide building which will provide accommodation for over 800 officers is the first purpose built Grade A accommodation in the city centre to be completed since the economic
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NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
WALK ON
STORY >>> CANCER FUND FOR CHILDREN IS DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT ITS ANNUAL WINTER WOOLLY WALK IS BACK ONCE AGAIN IN 2017. WWW CANCERFUNDFORCHILDREN. COM
REGENERATION
downturn. It was delivered ahead of programme, and within budget. The new Olympia Leisure Centre, the first of the council’s redeveloped facilities under its £105 million leisure transformation programme, is now complete and offers the most modern and advanced leisure facilities in Northern Ireland, with a 25m pool and teaching pool, 120 station gym, four court sports hall, luxurious day spa and state of the art exercise studios. Match funding of £2.75 million was received from the Department for Communities for this project as part of the NI Executive’s Stadium Redevelopment Programme. The new CS Lewis Square, part of the £40 million Connswater Community Greenway project, is now a dedicated outdoor space for activities and events with popular sculptures based on characters from the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The space can accommodate up to 2,000 people for events. A new pavilion and pitch upgrade has been
completed at Musgrave, as part of council’s £15 million Pitches Programme, which has seen new facilities open at Cliftonville, Woodlands, Ormeau, Victoria, Lady Dixon, Ballysillan and the Waterworks parks. Work on a new pitch and pavilion is due to commence at Falls Park, and on a new pavilion at Sally Gardens in 2017. A Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) is also now complete at Springfield Avenue, transforming a previously derelict area of land into a new community facility. Phase one of the Whiterock Community Corridor project which consisted of a new playground and MUGA was also recently completed and Phase two of the project, the completion of the road serving the new Falls Park pitch, will commence later this month, along with the creation of a piece of public art. In addition, 2017 will see £60 million of leisure investment get underway, with new facilities at Robinson, Brook and Andersonstown and the reopening of the £4 million upgrade of the Tropical Ravine at Botanic Gardens.
CHARITY
CANCER FUND FOR CHILDREN WINTER WOLLY WALK
On 25th February (2017), the charity hopes that local families from across Northern Ireland will be kicking off the winter chills by taking part in one of its annual family friendly sponsored walks.
upported by NI4Kids, Winter Woolly Walk encourages families S from across Northern Ireland to join
them for a great family day out whilst also raising funds to support local families affected by cancer. There are eight walks taking place at beautiful locations across the country, including Belfast, Tyrone, Portstewart, Newcastle, Antrim, Fermanagh, Lurgan and Derry/Londonderry. The fun-filled event is the perfect excuse to kick of those winter blues and rally the family together for a great day out in the fresh air all, whilst raising funds for the charity that supports local families whose lives are devastated by cancer. Tracey McGeehan’s family will once again be attending their local Winter Woolly Walk in County Tyrone next year. Tracey’s daughter Cassie was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2010, and since then the family have
benefitted from a range of support from Cancer Fund for Children. Tracey is calling on others to come out and join them as they give something back to the charity that supported them throughout Cassie’s treatment. She said; “We’ve been doing the Winter Woolly Walk for a few years now, and we all absolutely love it. It’s lovely to be able to get out together as a family and do something fun that’s also great exercise too.Anything we can do as a family to raise awareness and funds for children with cancer, we will do our best.” This year, Cancer Fund for Children hope to raise over £30,000 from the Winter Woolly Walk. The charity relies on fundraising activity such as Winter Woolly Walk in order to continue its vital work which includes providing practical, emotional and financial
REGENERATION
support to local families affected by cancer as well as free short therapeutic breaks. Cancer Fund for Children understands the devastating impact a cancer diagnosis and treatment can have on the whole family. Their team of experienced Specialists helps families cope with the impact cancer has on their lives supporting them during and after treatment and sadly in some cases, bereavement. Make a difference to local families
living with cancer by stepping out on February 25. Locations include The Lagan Towpath in Belfast, Tollymore Forest Park in Newcastle, Lurgan Park, Antrim Castle Gardens, St Columb’s Park in Derry/L’Derry, Castle Coole in Fermanagh, Drum Manor Forest Park in Cookstown and Portstewart Strand. Registration is from 10am with walks starting at 10.30am except Tollymore which will start at 10am, with registration at 9.30am.
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
DOD GE STORY >>> HOW 8-15 YEAR OLDS CAN GET INVOLVED WITH OUR LOCAL DODGEBALL TEAM. CONTACT 02890 456993
TEAM WORK
DUCK AND DIVE WITH YOUR LOCAL DODGEBALL TEAM Lagan Village Youth and Community Group are on the ball
he local community group have their own doegeball team; They are called Lagan Village Dodgers and they have a junior team (aged 8 to 11) and a senior team aged (12 to 15). They have been competing in a league run by Northern Ireland Dodgeball Association against other youth groups across Belfast and have been doing very well in all games. They also train in the community centre in Ballarat Street on a Sunday afternoon. The training session is open to everyone not just members of the team, and they would like to see more young people get involved in the sport. If you think you would like to get involved, call 02890 456993 for more information.
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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO 42,000 HOMES • CALL 02890 200988 •STUART@LOOPMAG.NET
Care of Senior Pets
Vets4Pets Belfast Stormont
Need help shifting that winter weight? Due to improvements in care our pets are now living longer
With a rise in overweight pets across the country the New Year encourages many than ever. Just likeabout us, pets changing needs pet parents start to think how tohave help their pets lose weight butand how as do you know your they pet is overweight in the first place? theyifage are more likely to develop health problems. A good way to check if your pet is the right When isbody my pet a senior? size is to condition score your pets Cats are considered mature 7 to 10 years regularly. In dogs and cats ofata normal old, senior 11 to 14 and geriatric at 15+. weight theyatshould have a visible waist from and a different tucked upastummy whenon Dogsabove are slightly it depends viewed from the dogs side. age You should be ableso their size. Large more quickly, to feel your pet’s ribs be easily when running a Great Dane would considered a senior your hands over the side their at 6 or 7 butgently this would only beof middle chest. If you can’tbreed see your or aged for a small suchpet’s as awaist Yorkshire feel theirOn ribs then the are they’re Terrier. average wechances would consider a a bit dogoverweight. over 8 years old to be senior.
Local Vets for Local Pets We’re Lauren and Lisa, the practice owners and veterinary surgeons at Vets4Pets Belfast Stormont. Having been fascinated by animals from a young age we both knew we were destined to become vets. You could find Lisa operating on her teddies as a child and Lauren would be educating her family and friends about animal welfare. After graduating from vet school over ten years ago we are currently working towards
further qualifications in specialist areas such as internal medicine. We know how special your pet can be to your family, and we will work closely with you to provide the highest level of care to ensure your pets remain healthy and happy! Lauren Horton BVet Med MRCVS Lisa Simpson MVB MRCVS Practice Owners and Veterinary Surgeons, Vets4Pets Belfast Stormont.
What health problems older Before you start a diet it’scan always pets have? worth checking with your vet about an One of the most common health appropriate amount of weight lossproblems and how in help olderyour petspet is arthritis. Bothsafely. cats and dogs to lose weight Most can have decreased mobility and joint pain pets gain weight because they eat too many as they age be much worse calories and and don’tthis getcan enough exercise. if they are overweight. Withand appropriate Sometimes being treat wise cutting veterinary treatment pets with down the amount of treats they arthritis get can can be happy andfeed comfortable. help. Always your dog according to Older pets are more likely to suffer from to discuss the needs of your older pets, heart disease, liver disease, kidney havepet a dental checkand or aweight nail clip. Belfast Stormont Vets4Pets aredisease running free nutrition and cancer. Many of these conditions are our free Call weight the clinicmanagement on 028 9048 0300 for management workshops alongside clinics. treatable is more successful moreplace information. Give us aand calltreatment on 02890 483000 to book your or for more information
on how we can help
Book your appointment with us today Vets4Pets Belfast Stormont 697 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3NT Call: 028 9048 3000 or visit: vets4pets.com/belfast-stormont
the manufacturer’s instructions for the size if they are caught so the it is size verythey of dog they should early be (not important for senior pets to have regular are)! Weighing the food also means that vet checks. you give them the right amount each day. How can I keep my senior pet happy For cats and rabbits increasing their anddogs, healthy? exercise For dogsdiet this is might Feedingusually a goodhelps. quality senior mean a fewthese extradiets or longer walkseasily or maybe essential, are more some hydrotherapy. For cats playing digested and contain increased nutrition. with them fiveaminutes a day or Older petsfor have weaker twice immune system feeding them from a treat can increase so yearly vaccinations andball regular parasite their activity levels. For rabbits increasing control are very important. Dental care is their to runand in and can help. oftenarea needed yourplaytime vet or vet nurse can advise you on this. Some changes around therequire home acan helpcalorie your pet be Some pets special more comfortable as sleeping areas controlled diet that such your vet can advise you downstairs, raised pet feeding bowls and an on. The occasional can have a medical easily accessible litterittray condition that makes hardfor forcats. them to lose weight. Having a check-up with your Vets4Pets Belfast Stormont are running vet can help to rule these out using We a also ‘Golden Oldie MOTs’ in January. simple blood test. have regular nurse clinics if you wish
10 • HEADLINES
/// News HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16. GET IN TOUCH stuart@loopmag.net
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www.loopmag.net STORY >>> EAST BELFAST MISSION SOCIAL ECONOMY PROJECTS RESTORE CHARITY SHOPS AND HOSFORD - THE HOMELESSNESS SERVICE OF EAST BELFAST MISSION HAVE WORKED TOGETHER TO CREATE VITAL RESETTLEMENT PACKS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY WITH THE NEEDS OF THE HOSFORD CLIENTS IN MIND. WWW EBM.ORG.UK
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017 NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
TEAM WORK
RESTORING LIVES THROUGH RESTORE AT EAST BELFAST MISSION
Hosford works with some of Belfast’s most vulnerable homeless individuals many of whom have exhausted all other avenues for help. Last year the Hosford team resettled 30 clients into their own accommodation, a journey which starts them on the road to independent living.. he new series of bespoke resettlement packs, which includes essential items for daily living such as beds and bedding, tables & chairs, occasional furniture and other household necessities, will ensure the transition to independent living is as smooth as possible. Aidan Byrne, Hosford Manager said of the Resettlement Pack Initiative; “This is a tremendous advance on the previous situation where vulnerable individuals were frustrated and disappointed with their new homes based on an inability to access basic household requirements. This new approach reinforces the independence of our clients and helps cement their re-engaging into local communities and society at large”. Hosford homelessness service of East Belfast Mission provides accommodation and support to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. At their 26 unit hostel Hosford provides lifesaving shelter to people who have nowhere else to live. Each year the service helps around 30 people to find a home of their own and gives them the support they need to keep that home. Aidan continued to say; “It’s wonderful
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when our residents find their own home and whilst it’s a very exciting time it is also a difficult time as people often lack the resources to set the house up and to turn it into a home. We are seeing first hand that these resettlement packs are a huge help to our residents and make the transition to independent living much smoother. It’s really important that people who have been homeless get the right support to make sure that they not only find a home but keep that home and avoid becoming homeless in the future”. Among many of the recent success stories is Dean who at 19 years old found himself homeless and vulnerable. He became a resident of Hosford and with the support of the Resettlement Team at East Belfast Mission he successfully secured his own accommodation. Dean desperately needed some furniture and accessories to turn this accommodation from an empty shell into a warm and secure home. The Hosford and Retail Team worked together to select the furniture he needed and co-ordinated the delivery of these items to coincide with Dean moving in – this ensured there was no extended period where he was living
PICTURED L-R HOSFORD MANAGER AIDAN BYRNE IS PICTURED WITH RETAIL AREA MANAGER MICHAEL SLOAN AND HOSFORD CLIENT DEAN
in an empty home. Dean said; “When I became homeless East Belfast Mission gave me a place to stay and help to find my own home. I’m now moving into my home and they are helping me with a furniture pack and support to keep my home. I’m very grateful for this help and I’m now looking forward to getting my home set up and to getting some qualifications and hopefully finding work”. The Restore shops with locations in Belfast, Newtownards, Antrim and Larne are a vital source of income. The income generated through the Restore Shops supports East Belfast Mission to help not just Dean but others who finds themselves in similar
circumstances. Everyone can help by donating unwanted good quality items and clothing that they no longer need. For larger items such as furniture, EBM can arrange a FREE collection. Michael Sloan, Restore Shops Retail Manager, said of the initiative; “Working together for the benefit of all is at the heart of the East Belfast Missions ethos. This is a perfect example of a multi project approach which is adding real value to lives and maximising the chances for people who are vulnerable members of society to regain their self-esteem and sense of worth. My team is delighted to be part of the success of the Resettlement Programme”.
/// For further information on how to donate please contact your nearest Restore. All details can be found on www.ebm.org.uk NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
CULTURE
Shining A Spotlight on Songwriters
MUSIC FEST STORY >>>
A huge festival will take place in Belfast in March. We have the details.
13TH UNITED AIRLINES BELFAST NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL. ONE HUNDRED LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS WILL PERFORM IN THIRTY CONCERTS AT 13TH UNITED AIRLINES BELFAST NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL IN THE CLAYTON HOTEL BELFAST
ver five days in March, more than one hundred local and international artists will perform in thirty concerts at 13th United Airlines Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival in the Clayton Hotel Belfast. Paul Brady is joined on stage by Declan O’Rourke and Nashville’s Grammy nominated Darrell Scott. A second unique show, ‘Paul Brady In Conversation’ with Ralph McLean is being recorded for broadcast by BBC Radio Ulster. Local artists gracing the stage include Kaz Hawkins, Peter McVeigh, Ursula Burns and young rising star Ryan McMullan, fresh from working with Ed Sheeran and Foy Vance. Panarts Director Colin Magee said; “When we started out twelve years ago to shine a spotlight on creative and musically gifted local artists we could only dream of having such a fantastic festival lineup” Texan Kimmie Rhodes shares a stage with Gareth Dunlop and Brian Houston while Nashville’s Mac McAnally will play hits he wrote for Kenny Chesney, Alabama and Shenandoah. Panarts Young Songwriter of the Year, Triona will launch her new single ‘Warrior’ at The Clayton Hotel Belfast on 3rd March. Running alongside the concerts is the annual music industry conference, Panarts Song Writing Convention, now in its thirteenth year. Artists will share their song writing skills while PRS for Music and IMRO will answer questions about royalties, copyright and income streams for artists. Tickets are on sale at www.belfastnashville.com Telephone 028 9024 6609 or box office, Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, Donegall Sq North.
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WWW BELFASTNASHVILLE.COM
PICTURED TOP TO BOTTOM RYAN MCMULLAN, PAUL BRADY, KIMMIE RHODES, DARRELL SCOTT.
RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR ST GEORGE’S MARKET Belfast’s historic St George’s Market enjoyed a record breaking year for visitor numbers in 2016. More than one million people visited the Market between 1 January and 31 December last year. Almost 20,000 people visited the Market each weekend, meaning that each of its trading days enjoyed an average of more than 6,500 shoppers. According to the figures for the year, the Market’s
busiest month was September, with more than 97,000 visitors followed December and then July. The Market’s busiest single weekend was that of 8-10 December, when almost 25,000 people passed through its doors.The figures were also boosted by the two hugely successful and awardwinning Twilight Market events in May and November, which between them attracted almost 46,500 visitors.
VOLUNTEER IN 2017 WITH VOLUNTEERNOW Volunteering doesn’t have to be for a long time, it can be as you want it and how you want it, it can be that fun spark you were missing in your life. To find a volunteering opportunity near you
or to find out what is available, log on to www.volunteernow. co.uk or visit Facebook and Twitter profiles to see some opportunities happening right now. Alternatively call on 028 9023 2020
ARTIQUA HOLYWOOD During the First World War, the supply of rattan and bamboo was interrupted. However, Marshall Burns Lloyd refused to close down his production of lightweight, solid furniture and went looking for alternatives for these traditional raw materials. He found the solution in woven paper. ‘Lloyd Loom’ looks like rattan, but is much stronger and, at the same time, softer. In fact, it is Kraft paper which is wound around steel wires and which is then woven into mats on a loom. Hence the ‘loom’ part of ‘Lloyd Loom’
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12 • HEADLINES
/// News HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16. GET IN TOUCH stuart@loopmag.net
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www.loopmag.net STORY >>> A MAJOR EU-FUNDED SURVEY, ACROSS NORTH WEST EUROPE INCLUDING BELFAST, HAS FOUND THE OVERWHELMING MOTIVATOR TO BEGIN CYCLING IS TO IMPROVE HEALTH. WWW SUSTRANS.ORG.UK
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017 NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
HEALTH
HEALTH MAIN MOTIVATOR FOR PEOPLE TO TAKE UP CYCLING
PICTURED Pamela Grove-White from Sustrans in the hi-vis. Photogrpahy by Brian Morrison
The results are published in the same week a draft plan to create 80 miles of bicycle routes in Belfast was launched for consultation by the Department for Infrastructure.
mproving health was cited as the main reason to start cycling, above saving money and time, by respondents to a workplace survey across Belgium, the Netherlands, Northern Ireland and Germany. The survey was the first step in the €4.4m CHIPS project (Cycle Highways Innovation for Smarter People Transport and Spatial Planning) which involves Belfast working with these European partner countries over the next two years to tackle high levels of air pollution by encouraging cycling. Sustrans is the lead UK partner working on the project in east Belfast to reduce car traffic – the biggest cause of air pollution – and promote sustainable transport, such as cycling on the Comber Greenway to commuters. This week has seen very high levels of air pollution across Northern Ireland, according to DAERA (Department for Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs), which is caused mainly by particulate matter
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produced by traffic emissions. Air pollution is linked to the early deaths of around 40,000 people a year in the UK, and causes problems such as heart and lung conditions. Gordon Clarke, Sustrans Northern Ireland Director presented the findings of the CHIPS survey to the Infrastructure Committee at Stormont today. The survey asked people about the barriers to them cycling to work and found the biggest factors in Belfast were concerns about heavy traffic and erratic drivers. It confirmed some primary assumptions: in Flanders, Belgium the main barriers are related to the lack of high quality cycle infrastructure; while the Dutch experience, where cycling is commonplace, found there were far fewer barriers compared to other countries. Belgium respondents also found there were ‘too many cars on the road’ but ranked dangerous cycle path surfaces as the main barrier to cycling. In Belfast, the weather, such as rain, ice and wind, was ranked
as less of a barrier than the issue of ‘no direct cycle routes’ and ‘too many cars on the road’. Pamela Grove-White, from Sustrans said: “We want to thank everyone who took part in the workplace survey. The results for Belfast confirm many of the barriers we suspected, namely safety and cycling infrastructure. Our
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
er name was Lilian Bland and she is the hero of a new choral and musical performance which will open the Northern Ireland Science Festival on Wednesday 15th February at the Ulster Hall. Anything but Bland has been written by John McIlduff, along with new music composed by Brian Irvine. It will be performed by the Ulster Orchestra and a 200-strong female community choir of all ages. Writer John McIlduff said, “Lilian Bland is a fantastic figure and very few people know about her – we thought it was time to bring her story to life, give her some recognition and hopefully inspire the next generation of young engineers and scientists. She was one of the original global female innovators, an extremely talented engineer and in modern terms, she was one seriously kick-ass woman – she certainly broke the stereotype mould in the late 19th century! “After the death of her mother in 1890, young Lilian moved to Carnmoney, Co. Antrim with her father. She dressed in trousers, she smoked, drank and taught martial arts including Ju – Jitsu.” “She was a talented sports journalist and photographer. She was about as non-conformist as they came and she didn’t let gender boundaries restrict her ambitions! She tried to obtain her jockey’s license and continually applied to race in the Grand National, but was rejected on the basis of being female. In early 1910, Lilian spent most of her time in a shed in Carnmoney, constructing a glider, naming it ‘Mayfly’, saying philosophically, “it may fly, it may not fly.” She cobbled together spruce, bamboo and other materials and the controls were formed from recycled bicycle handlebars.” “In spite of success with the glider and true to her ambitious streak, she wanted to give it
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STORY >>> NEW CHORAL PERFORMANCE FROM BRIAN IRVINE CELEBRATES A LITTLE-KNOWN STORY OF THE WORLD’S FIRST WOMAN TO DESIGN, BUILD AND FLY A PLANE – HERE IN COUNTY ANTRIM
NI SCIENCE FESTIVAL OPENING MUSICAL GALA CELEBRATES “KICK ASS” FEMALE AERONAUTICAL INNOVATOR LILIAN BLAND
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She was one of the original global female innovators, an extremely talented engineer and in modern terms, she was one seriously kick-ass woman – she certainly broke the stereotype mould in the late 19th century
“
LILIAN BLAND (1878–1971) WAS AN AERONAUTICAL ENGINEER WHO DESIGNED, BUILT AND FLEW “THE MAYFLY” WHICH WAS THE FIRST POWERED AIRCRAFT TO BE CONSTRUCTED BY A WOMAN IN IRELAND. LILIAN WAS ALSO A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER, AN AUTHOR AND AN ARTIST.
SCIENCE FEST
Many of us know that local inventor Harry Ferguson not only pioneered the tractor but also built an aeroplane. But how many of us are aware that a woman from Carnmoney designed, built and flew her own plane, making her the first woman in the world to do so?
INNO VATOR
IMAGE COURTESY OF www.lilianbland.ie
overall aim is to help more people try alternatives to the car to reduce the high levels of air pollution in our city.” With these barriers in mind the CHIPS partners met in Belfast in December to start to design behavioural change campaigns to encourage more people to consider cycling to work.
some more oomph and realised that an engine would be the answer. After ordering a two stroke engine which arrived without a fuel tank, Lilian, resourceful as ever, used an empty whiskey bottle, decanting the petrol in it through her deaf aunt’s ear trumpet. Unsurprisingly the aircraft failed to take flight that day. However, equipped with a real fuel tank and piloted by Lilian Bland on August 31st 1910, Mayfly flew approximately 30 feet at a new test field at the Deerpark Estate in Randalstown. Her diary records that a temperamental free-roaming bull on the Estate, named Ferdinand, provided some extra motivation to help get Mayfly airborne! Highly alarmed by his daughter’s passion for aviation, Lilian’s father promised he would buy her a new car if she gave up flying. Lilian then taught herself how to drive, collected one of the very first Model T Fords in Dublin and drove it to Belfast. The following year, she was running a car dealership in Belfast where she became Ford’s first female car agent in Northern Ireland!” Writer John McIlduff continued, “Lilian Bland continued to innovate throughout her life and our new production is centred around Lilian’s inspiring, colourful and often eyebrow-raising story. She didn’t see the need for marriage or for a man in her life – but she did eventually marry, and she had one child, a daughter, whom she named Patrick, having hoped she would have a son.” “We simply love the story of Lilian and we hope the audiences will be both entertained and inspired by this wonderful story of early girlpower. Brian Irvine’s new choral composition brilliantly captures the riotous energy of Lilian’s character and with the support of the Ulster Orchestra, this will be a performance – aptly named “Anything but Bland” - not to be missed.”
/// ANYTHING BUT BLAND WILL OPEN THE NI SCIENCE FESTIVAL ON THE EVENING OF 15TH FEBRUARY AT THE ULSTER HALL. THERE WILL BE TWO PERFORMANCES AT 6.30PM AND 8.30PM AND TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE ULSTER HALL COSTING £12 FOR ADULTS AND £8 FOR CHILDREN.
Titanic Taster Tour
The Science of Photography Sat 18 February, 10.30 to 1.30pm Become a Titanic inspired photographer for the day, learning all about the science behind photography. Stops include the historic Slipways, Pump-House & the Cranes. PRICE: £20 per person (Includes lunch). ..................................................................................................
Mew to TQ: Lighthouse Technology Wed 22 February, 2pm @ W5 Join Titanic Foundation & Irish Lights as they present a talk on one of the largest lighthouse optics of its kind ever constructed. The Mew Island optic is a unique heritage object, significant to Belfast’s economic, maritime & industrial past - & it’s coming to Titanic Quarter this summer! PRICE: FREE, but booking is essential.
Off the Rails Trail
Sat 25 February, 10.30 - 12noon A family friendly trail, where you get to explore Titanic Quarter, searching for clues to the area’s shipbuilding & maritime heritage past, all with a scientific twist. The Wee Tram will ferry everyone around the area, accompanied by a guide & a treasure map with all the clues! PRICE: £6 - suitable for ages 5+ ..............................................................................................
For all the latest info on events, festivals & to book places visit / TQ Ev e n t s B e l f a s t E: info@titanic-foundation.org T: 02890 730490
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#EXPLORE TITANIC QUARTER THIS FEBRUARY The NI Science Festival offers a stimulating & wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering & mathematics. The TQEventBelfast team have made it easy and pulled together a list of events happening across Titanic Quarter during the festival (16 to 26 February) PLUS a few more fun things to do….
Future17: Teen Hackathon Sat 18 Feb, 9:30 - 4:30 pm @ Titanic Belfast Future17 is a hackathon and tech conference designed for teens, by teens. The event aims to inspire teens to get more involved in the tech industry through coding. Run exclusively by three teenagers, the 13-18 year old attendees will have the chance to get to grips with coding and will be tasked with designing an app around a key theme, such as education. At the end, the most innovative projects will receive spot prizes and a share of £1,000. Even if you’ve never coded before but are keen to learn, don’t worry, as expert coding mentors will be on hand to assist you! Price: £5 - booking fee may apply.
Cracking the Code: The Genetics of Superheroes Sat 18 Feb, 1:00 - 2:00pm @Titanic Belfast TV presenter and scientist, Simon Watt, is returning to Titanic Belfast bringing his ‘Cracking The Code: The Genetics of Superheroes’ Roadshow! Comic books are filled with mutants; heroes and villains alike, from Wolverine to Magneto, whose special abilities are genetic in their origin. Simon
looks into what are real mutants like, looking at topics including genetics, mutation, DNA, and mRNA and poses the question, could we one day use genetics to make us superhuman? Price: £6.50 or £20 per family.
Food Glorious Food! Sunday 19 & 26 Feb, 11:00 - 3:00 @ Titanic Belfast Free, drop-in activity in Titanic Belfast Atrium Experience food like never before! Stimulate your senses, test your taste buds and expect the unexpected. Titanic Belfast will take everyday ingredients and dishes and let you experience them like never before with free interactive demonstrations in its giant atrium. If you like what you see, unique and interactive dishes will be served in Bistro 401 throughout the day (prices vary).
Exploring the Depths Sunday 19 & 26 Feb, 10:00 to 11:00 @ Titanic Belfast Exploring the Depths allows you to dive deep into the ocean to uncover hidden shipwrecks and discover the world of modern ocean exploration. Taking place in the Ocean Exploration Centre, part of the 9 galleries at Titanic Belfast, this unique setting provides
an engaging and interactive learning environment. Price: £5pp.
Mew to TQ: Lighthouse Technology Wed 22 Feb, 2:00pm @ W5 Join Titanic Foundation & Irish Lights as they present a talk on one of the largest lighthouse optics of its kind ever constructed. Weighing 10 tonnes, measuring 7 metres tall and 130 years old, the Mew Island optic is a unique heritage object with significance to Belfast’s economic, maritime and industrial past - and it’s coming to Titanic Quarter this summer! Price: Free, registration required email info@ titanic-foundation.org or call 02890 730490.
The Entrepreneurial Scientist and the Sustainable Development Goals Wed 22 Feb, 6:30-8:00 pm @ Catalyst Inc British Council Northern Ireland in partnership with Catalyst Inc. presents an evening of discussion with international scientists, together with key players from NI’s innovation and development sectors. How can entrepreneurialism go hand in hand with sustainable development? This world café style
event will draw on international expertise from scholars working in the UK through the Newton Fund. The Newton Fund uses science and innovation partnerships to promote economic and social welfare of partner countries. Price: Free, registration required.
Off the Rails Trail Sat 25 Feb, 10:30 - 12:00pm A family friendly trail, where you get to explore Titanic Quarter, searching for clues to the area’s shipbuilding and maritime heritage past, all with a scientific twist. The Wee Tram will ferry everyone around the area, accompanied by a guide and a treasure map with all the clues! The Wee Tram will be stopping along the original rail tracks from the coal cart rails on the slipways, the tram rails at HMS Caroline and the steam crane rails alongside the Thompson Dock. Price: £6pp. Meeting point Titanic Belfast sign.
The Silent Science Show Selected Dates from 11 Feb – 26 March @ W5 “SSSSSHH...we need some Sci-lence!” Following on from the success of last year’s “Big Bang Theatre”, W5 brings you the Silent Science Show! Take your seats for some
slapstick science in a unique black and white, silent stage show!! Prepare yourself for exciting, experimental and somewhat unusual family theatre this February. Danger, humour, excitement and some very cool science combine to make a really entertaining experience. Visit www.w5online.co.uk To check availability and book spaces for the NI Science Festival events visit www.nisciencefestival.com
Here’s a few more suggestions to enjoy Titanic Quarter this February…..
• Explore Titanic Quarter’s maritime heritage on a Titanic Taster Tour, check TQEventsBelfast Facebook for dates. • Hop on the Belfast Bikes for an afternoon of cycling. Docking stations located at SSE Arena and next to SS Nomadic. Followed by lunch stop in Cast & Crew, Café 1404, or the Dock Café. • Fancy seeing the Titanic Quarter from the water? Then climb on board the World’s only Titanic boat tour. Find out the story of Belfast’s rich maritime heritage and industry. For sail times visit laganboatcompany.com. For all the latest info on this year’s festival, events & activities happening across Titanic Quarter visit Facebook.com/TQEventsBelfast.
14 • HEADLINES
/// News COMMUNITY HEADLINES The latest news from East Belfast and beyond brought to 42,000 homes every month across BT4, BT5, BT6 & BT16. GET IN TOUCH stuart@loopmag.net
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www.loopmag.net STORY >>> MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE INVITED TO COME ALONG TO ASK QUESTIONS, TALK TO EXPERIENCED SOCIAL WORKERS AND FOSTER CARERS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT SPECIFIC CHILDREN NEEDING PLACEMENTS
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017 NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
FOSTER CARE EVENT - ‘TIL I GROW UP INFORMATION EVENING Thursday 9 February from 7-9pm Crowne Plaza Hotel (formerly The Ramada), Shawsbridge, Belfast
hroughout the Belfast HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust areas there are children of all ages who may never be able to live with their birth parents – they need a permanent ‘forever home’ for the rest of their childhood. The vast number of children in care live with foster carers and for many it is hoped that they will return to live with their birth family, but a small number of children may never be able to live with their birth parents and need a forever home where they can live with the same family until they grow up. Due to the ongoing shortage of long term foster carers in the Belfast HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust areas, both trusts will jointly host an information evening, ’Til I Grow Up. Members of the public are invited to come along to ask questions, talk to experienced social workers and foster carers and learn more about specific children needing placements. Beverley Ringland, Senior Social Worker, explains: “There is an ongoing shortage of foster carers to provide ‘forever homes’ within the East Belfast area. Think about your qualities. To consider
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fostering you need to like children, be child centred in your approach and be able to give time, love, fun and security. If you are resilient, flexible and have realistic expectations then we would welcome you to come along to ’Til I Grow Up to find out more about providing a ‘family for life’. Eighteen year old Shannon Massey has lived with her East Belfast foster carers for almost two years and credits them with giving her the practical support and encouragement to pursue her ambitions: “My dream is to keep studying Hospitality and maybe someday to have a management role in a hotel. My advice to someone considering becoming a foster carer would be that you’re going to be helping a kid who probably really needs it. You could be the most positive influence they ever have.” ’Til I Grow Up takes place on Thursday 9 February from 7-9pm at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (formerly The Ramada), Shawsbridge, Belfast. To register for the information evening call 028 9504 0057 or email mairead.sloan@setrust.hscni.net.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
Could YOU give me love, fun and security . . .
’til I grow up? Information Evening Thursday 9 February 2017
www.adoptionandfostering.hscni.net
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
BRI EF STORIES >>> THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS FRO THE COMMUNITY IN BRIEF.
DRUG & ALCOHOL STAKEHOLDER FORUM
The next meeting of this forum is on Friday 10 March at 10am in Inverary Community Centre. It is open to all community organisations and individuals in East Belfast with an interest in drug and alcohol-related issues. Contact jean@ebcda.org or call 9045 1512 to confirm your attendance. NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
WALK WEDNESDAYS WITH THE GREENWAY
Join Connswater Community Greenway on their Walk Wednesdays which are happening every Wednesday meeting at 2pm outside the new Eastside Visitors Centre. The walks are facilitated by Greenway Leaders and are done in partnership with Outdoor Recreation NI. This is a great opportunity to get outside and be active in your community whilst meeting others and exploring the Connswater Community Greenway, and end your walk with a free cup of tea! For more information please contact Laura Francis at EastSide Partnership on 028 9045 1900 or laura@eastsidepartnership.com. Alternatively you can contact Nar Munna on 028 9045 1512 or narendra@ebcda.org. NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE SUPPORT GROUP A reminder that the SOS (Survivors of Suicide) Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month at 7.30pm in Connswater Community Centre, Tamar Street, BT4 1SX. The group is open to anyone who has experienced a bereavement by suicide. For more information contact Claire Curran on 028 9046 0201 or eastbelfastsos@gmail.com. DROP IN ADVICE CLINICS
MON, TUES, WED, 9.30-11.30 THURS 2.00-3.30 (APPOINTMENTS REQUIRED FOR DISABILITY LIVING ALLOWANCE, PERSONAL INDEPENDENCE PAYMENT AND ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE FORMS)
NEWS • #25 • FEBRUARY 2017
DROP-IN MINDFULNESS MEDITATION CLASS
Thanks to funding form the Big Lottery East Belfast Community Development Agency are offering local people the opportunity to try out Mindfulness Meditation.
Being mindful basically means switching from ‘doing’ to ‘being’. It may sound easy but for most of us we are on autopilot a lot of the time and we need a little bit of support to develop the skilful art of being. So whether you are a seasoned meditator or you are just starting out, all are welcome at these classes. The class theme will vary from week to week but will include movement based meditation as well as seated and lying down meditations. Get ready to access relaxation and rejuvenation resulting in a quieter and calmer you. No need to book, just turn up. The class is paid for by voluntary donation. Running every Monday between 6 February - 10 April 2017 from 6pm to 7pm at East Belfast Network Centre, 55 Templemore Avenue. For more information contact Clare Flynn at EBCDA on 028 9045 1512 or clare@ebcda.org
Ask the advisor
ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO MAKE ENDS MEET?
Carlie Martin, Better Off Families Adviser at East Belfast Independent Advice Centre provides information about common advice queries. unclaimed that could make “My partner and I are both working Even though you are both Debt. The advice is free, working you may have an life a bit easier for people on we have two young children. We independent and confidential. WOULD YOU LIKE TO entitlement to Tax Credits or a low income. It is always rent our house and between the You can phone us or come into VOLUNTEER WITH EBIAC? Housing Benefit. Entitlement worth contacting us to have rent and other expenses, we are the centre to talk to an adviser. WE HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO VOLUNTEER IN THE FOLLOWING finding it very difficult to make to Tax Credits can give you a full benefit and tax credit ROLES, RECEPTIONIST, calculation carried out. ends meet. Friends have said that entitlement to other benefits East Belfast Independent ADMINISTRATOR AND ADVISER. we may be entitled to some Tax such as free school meals East Belfast Independent Advice Centre PLEASE CONTACT GERARD for the children. Every year Advice Centre offers advice on Credits or help with our rent. With 55 Templemore Avenue MORGAN FOR FURTHER both of us working, would this be a a substantial amount of Welfare benefits, Tax Credits, Belfast BT5 4NT INFORMATION. possibility? ” benefits and tax credits goes Housing, Employment and Telephone 028 90 735690 EAST BELFAST INDEPENDENT ADVICE CENTRE 55 TEMPLEMORE AVENUE BELFAST BT5 4NT TELEPHONE 028 90 735690
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
FEATURES
• 15
WIN NERS
EAST SI D E AWAR D S WINNERS CELEBRATE THE BEST OF EAST BELFAST Winners of the first Eastside Awards in association with George Best Belfast City Airport have been announced at a glittering ceremony in the heart of East Belfast, hosted by BBC presenter Tara Mills. The top accolade for Outstanding Contribution was awarded to highly respected East Belfast businessman James Brown MBE. The unanimous decision to honour James recognises the outstanding contribution he has made to East Belfast throughout his life.
THE WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL EASTSIDE AWARDS ARE:
Eastside Award for Tourism sponsored by The Foundry: Belfast City Sightseeing Eastside Award for Digital Innovation sponsored by Connect Telecom: Big Pixel Creative Eastside Award for Food Product or Services sponsored by McGuinness Fleck: Little Pink Kitchen Eastside Award for Contribution to Sport sponsored by Charles Hurst and Fleet Financial: Glentoran Academy Eastside Award for Contribution to the Arts sponsored by Millar McCall Wylie: Strand Arts Centre Eastside Award for Education sponsored by Phoenix Natural Gas: Go-Berserk Eastside Award for Contribution from the Community Sector sponsored by Solv Group: Orchardville Society Eastside Award for Young Person of the Year sponsored by George Best Belfast City Airport: Krizzah Policarpio Eastside Award for Volunteer of the Year sponsored by Avec Solutions: Sean Brannigan Eastside Award for Business Contribution sponsored by Ulster Bank: Rebound Physio Eastside Award for Business Growth sponsored by NIJobfinder: GPS Colour Graphics Eastside Award for Business Start Up sponsored by East Belfast Enterprise: SENsations Learning Support C.I.C. ponsor Michelle Hatfield, Director of Human Resources and Corporate Responsibility at Belfast City Airport, said: “Belfast City Airport would like to warmly congratulate all the winners and applicants of the inaugural Eastside Awards. To see so many businesses and organisations contributing to the local communities that they serve is truly inspiring, and should encourage other companies to find ways they can become more responsible in how they do business. Contributing to our local community is integral to the ethos Belfast City Airport’s business. Through the platform of our Community Fund we work
S
in partnership with local schools, charities and other organisations, and are very aware of the positive impact that businesses working closely with the community can have. The businesses and organisations highlighted have had a huge impact on the social, economic and community development of East Belfast and we are delighted to acknowledge them.” Sponsor Geri Wright, Communications Manager, Phoenix Natural Gas Ltd, said: “Having been at the heart of East Belfast for over 20 years, Phoenix Natural Gas is delighted to sponsor the Eastside Awards to recognise and reward talent within the East
Belfast Community. The award entries have really showcased the best of the East – the contributions entrants have made to their local area through business, voluntary and community work is not only inspiring, but it has helped put East Belfast on the map as a hub for creativity, culture and innovation. Phoenix Natural Gas is proud to support the Eastside Awards and congratulates all the worthy winners and finalists.” Jonathan McAlpin, East Belfast Enterprise, the brainchild behind the awards, said: “These awards were commissioned to celebrate the stars of East Belfast and to recognise the drive, ambition and passion
they have for this little corner of our city in which they play sport, do business, volunteer and entertain. It’s been a real labour of love for me to develop the vision into the reality and to see the awards come to life following what has been an extremely well supported and very successful process. I would like to personally congratulate all the winners of the inaugural Eastside Awards and thank the judges for their expertise in the difficult task they had in choosing the finalists and eventual winners from the standard of entries received.” Eastside Awards was supported by George Best Belfast City Airport, Avec Solutions, Belfast
Telegraph, Connect Telecom, East Belfast Enterprise, The Foundry, Charles Hurst Fleet Financial, McGuinness Fleck, Millar McCall Wylie, NIJobfinder.com, Phoenix Natural Gas Ltd, Solv Group and Ulster Bank. More than 200 guests gathered at Hastings Stormont Hotel to recognise all that is good about East Belfast at the Eastside Awards. On arrival guests were entertained by musicians from Grosvenor Grammar School and treated to dancing by NiStars. Following the awards presentation, The Ronnie Greer Blues Band performed with special guests Ken Haddock and one of East Belfast’s much loved singer songwriter’s, Anthony Toner.
Katie Pedlow of Rebound Physio receives Eastside Award for Business Contribution from Simon Seaton of sponsor Ulster Bank and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills
Lorraine Bell from GPS Colour Graphics receives Eastside Award for Business Growth from Mark Reilly of sponsor NIJobfinder and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills
Michael Walker of Orchardville Society receives Eastside Award for Contribution from the Community Sector from Stephen Kane of sponsor Solv Group and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills
Glentoran Director Bill Manson receives Eastside Award for Contribution to Sport on behalf of Glentoran Academy from Philp Miley of sponsor Charles Hurst & Fleet Financial and host Tara Mills
Mimi Turtle of Strand Arts Centre receives Eastside Award for Contribution to the Arts from Fiona Flynn of sponsor Millar McCall Wylie and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
Christopher McGuicken of Big Pixel Creative receives Eastside Award for Digital Innovation from Robin Brown of sponsor Connect Telecom and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
Dawn Simons of Go-Berserk receives Eastside Award for Education from Geri Wright of sponsor Phoenix Natural Gas and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
Sarah Patterson of Little Pink Kitchen receives Eastside Award for Food Product or Services from Steven McGuinness of sponsor McGuinness Fleck and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
James Brown MBE receives Eastside Award for Outstanding Contribution to East Belfast from Chair of the awards committee and Chief Executive of East Belfast Enterprise Jonathan McAlpin, and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
Clare Caughey of SENsations Learning Support CIC receives Eastside Award for Business Start Up from Chair of the awards committee and Chief Executive of East Belfast Enterprise, Jonathan McAlpin, and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
George Grimley and Paul Cunningham of Belfast City Sightseeing receive Eastside Award for Tourism from Patrick McAnea of sponsor East Belfast Enterprise and The Foundry and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
Michele Bryans of Eastside Partnership collects Eastside Award for Volunteer of the Year on behalf of winner Sean Brannigan from sponsor Avec Solutions representative James Brown MBE and awards host BBC presenter Tara Mills.
www.eastsideawards.org • www.facebook.com/eastsideawards • www.twitter.com/east_awards • #eastawardsni
16 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// HEALTH & WELLBEING STORY >>>
WWW DRINKIQ.COM
O
www.loopmag.net
GUID ANCE
ASDA AND DRINKAWARE PARTNERSHIP IN DUNDONALD TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE ON RESPONSIBLE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION The event took place in store ast month, with a Drinkaware stand set-up to give customers the opportunity to access friendly advice and to ask questions.
C
hris Lyttle MLA visited the store to learn more about the initiative and speak to customers. Participants were encouraged to complete a quick alcohol assessment using Drinkaware scratch cards and offered a free alcohol unit measuring cup and calorie wheel to take home. There was also specific help for parents on how to speak to their kids about alcohol and how to answer the difficult questions that children can ask. A long-standing partner of Asda, Drinkaware provides consumers with honest information, advice and tips to help them make informed decisions about alcohol. Customers who took part also had the chance to enter a prize draw to win a £50 Asda gift card. Chris Lowe, Senior Director for Corporate Affairs at Asda, said: “Working with Drinkaware is central to our role as a responsible retailer of alcohol and this new project aims
to provide impartial, evidence-based information and practical resources in a non-judgmental, engaging and fun environment. Our customer insight shows that a lot of shoppers think about their health in January and look for ways to cut back on their alcohol consumption after the festive period. We were pleased to host Drinkaware trained colleagues in store offering accessible, friendly advice to customers.” Elaine Hindal, Chief Executive at Drinkaware, says: “Understanding your alcohol intake can be confusing which is why we have produced a series of scratch-cards to help present clear information, in a simple, nonjudgemental manner. This January we are spreading the word about how having just a little less alcohol can help people stay healthy and we hope the information we present can help people make better choices about their drinking.”
STORMONT SEES RED FOR CHARITY EVENT
HEA LTH
WWW MCWATTERSOPTICIANS.CO.UK
Runners ‘Dress to Kill Heart Disease’
A
WWW NICHS.ORG.UK
Working with Drinkaware is central to our role as a responsible retailer of alcohol and this new project aims to provide impartial, evidence-based information and practical resources in a non-judgmental, engaging and fun environment
CHRIS LOWE, SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR CORPORATE AFFAIRS AT ASDA
LOVE IS IN THE AIR Rosemary McWatters : LOVE YOUR EYES Most people say they value their sight more than any other sense; but does this love for our vision show in how we take care of our eyes?
Maybe it is time to review how you are treating your eyes.
STORY >>> DUNDONALD OPTICIAN ROSEMARY MCWATTERS WITH SOME ADVICE ON DRIVING IN THE MIDST OF THE MURKY, DARK WINTER NIGHTS.
PLUS >>> NEWS ON A GREAT EVENT HAPPENING AT STORMONT TO RAISE AWARENESS OF WOMEN’S HEART DISEASE.
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PICTURED ESTHER FROM DRINKAWARE WITH ASDA DUNDONALD STORE MANAGER, SIMON WALSH AND CHRIS LYTTLE, MLA.
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RISK AVOIDANCE DANGER AWARENESS RESOURCE JOINS FORCES WITH DIAGEO TO PROMOTE ALCOHOL AWARENESS AMONGST YOUNG PEOPLE
local charity is urging everyone to ‘Dress to Kill heart disease’ by dressing in red for a range of events this February across Northern Ireland including a Red Dress Fun Run at Stormont. Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke’s Red Dress campaign is being launched to raise awareness of women’s heart disease which is the biggest killer of women in Northern Ireland - almost three times as many women die from heart disease as breast cancer. Kerry Anderson, Director of Fundraising at Northern Ireland Chest Heart
and Stroke said: “The red dress campaign has been created to raise awareness of this important issue and offer exciting and fun ways for the people of Northern Ireland to get involved. Many people may be surprised to learn that heart disease kills more women in Northern Ireland than any other disease and this means that lives are being lost unnecessarily. “We know the people of Northern Ireland are always up for a bit of a laugh so we’re keen to see both men and women don their best red dress and have a bit of fun whether they host
a red coffee morning, plan a red themed party or don their red tutu, dress or sparkly leggings for the Red Dress Run at Stormont.” The Red Dress Run is a 5k or 10k run at Stormont Estate on Saturday 11th February. Entries are now open, registration fee is £10 – register online at www.nichs.org. uk/reddressrun For more information on the Red Dress campaign and ideas on fundraising visit www.nichs.org.uk
Do you: · Look at electronic devices (computer/phone/tablet) for long periods? · Are you overweight? · Do you smoke? · Do you forget to wear sunglasses in the sun? All of these increase the risk of eye disease, damage or fatigue and these are habits you can change. It might not be easy but it would be worth the investment for your future eye health. Love your glasses As opticians, we want people to love their glasses: to enjoy wearing them and being seen in them. So make sure that you choose frames that feel good and look good. If you wear your glasses all the time, then they need to be comfortable to wear all day. Both the style of frame and the design of lenses can play a part. Listen carefully to the advice you are given about the different materials, lenses and coatings available to make the right choice for you. Also, show your spectacles some love in how you take care of them, using two hands to put them on and off; cleaning them with a cloth (not your
jumper!); and keeping them safely in their case when not worn. Love your optician Your local optician’s practice is more than just somewhere to have an eye test. We love offering style advice on frames and sunglasses to suit you. We talk through what is involved in trying contact lenses and put your mind at ease. We give advice on sore or red eyes and have a look with the best instruments that your GP may not have available. If you have any concerns about your eyes or vision, always make your optician your first port of call. Next month: Latest trends in spectacle style. 41 Comber Road Dundonald 028 9048 6222 mcwattersopticians.co.uk
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
FEATURES
• 17
NEW YEAR NEW TREND
Sorry, lobs, but there’s a new hair do in town! And this look of the textured cut “THE SHAG” has us captivated.
The modern shag, referred to now as the swag, is this years New trendy hairstyle . The ‘swag’ haircut is generally characterised by even progressing layers in the hair, whether your hairstyle is long, mid length or short the layers progress from the shortest layers being at top of the head to the longest coming through the length at the bottom. Here are some hairstyles to find some inspiration of your hair.
SHORT TEXTURED SHAG
This short, messy shag strikes a polished note with a soft, A-line cut. Opt for short layers in the back to create volume and add a dose of edge.
T H E M OD E R N SH AG
This style is the incarnation of the shag, a modern edgy version with chunky layers and natural tousled waves to finish the look .
S O FT SH AGGY B OB The texture of this shaggy short ‘do makes the bob look soft and sweet.
S H AGGY L OB CUT
This cut is perfect to mixed up your lob look, courtesy of subtle tousled waves and textured layers.
HAIR DO’S IN SPORT
Its that time again for new year resolutions most of us start off the year getting fit, healthy and looking great!
While doing this you’ll want a hairstyle that is still efficient and cute but won’t interfere with your workouts.
These sporty hairstyles will give you ideas on how to style your hair in a simple yet stylish way. Most of these hairstyles are easy to achieve, trendy and comfortable to wear, you can opt for ponytails, braids , buns it all works.
41 Comber Road Dundonald 028 9048 6222 WWW.MCWATTERSOPTICIANS.CO.UK
26 SANDOWN RD • BELFAST • TELEPHONE: 028 9065 8579 { EMAIL : SRHAIRDRESSING@HOTMAIL.COM }
18 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// SCHOOLS
STORY >>>
RISK AVOIDANCE DANGER AWARENESS RESOURCE JOINS FORCES WITH DIAGEO TO PROMOTE ALCOHOL AWARENESS AMONGST YOUNG PEOPLE
WWW DRINKIQ.COM
PART NERS
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It is through education initiatives such as this that we can ensure the next generation has a positive relationship with alcohol and, as a father, it is a commitment that resonates with me personally.
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Jorge Lopes Diageo NI
RADAR AND DIAGEO TO HELP NI YOUTH ‘SEE CLEARLY’ ON ALCOHOL RADAR and Diageo Northern Ireland have announced a strategic new partnership aimed at raising awareness of the risks associated with underage drinking.
he initial two year deal, which will include a rebrand of RADAR’s T conferencing facilities, will focus
on educating Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 4 visitors to the centre on the negative impact which the harmful use of alcohol can have on the body, relationships and wider society. The specialist £1.8m RADAR facility, a first for Northern Ireland, will employ interactive teaching methods to engage visitors and challenge them to don their ‘beer googles’ to experience first-hand some of the dangers associated with alcohol misuse. From the life-size driving simulator to indoor street scene, RADAR’s trained staff will guide young people through the dangers they face from excessive or underage consumption of alcohol in a risk-free environment. Sandra Leo, RADAR Centre Manager explains how RADAR, which has welcomed over 9,000 young people since opening at
the start of the year, will equip visiting teenagers with lifelong skills: “RADAR is acutely aware of the dangers which face young people in today’s society, one of which is harmful drinking. Through support from Diageo, the centre will be able to deliver tailored educational programmes to equip the teenagers and young adults who visit us with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions around alcohol. From anti-social behaviour and peer pressure to mental and sexual health, our expert staff will explore the role of alcohol within our society – both as a positive and negative force. It is about empowering young people as they enter adulthood and providing them with the information to make informed decisions.” Jorge Lopes, Diageo Northern Ireland County Director, added: “Diageo is delighted to have the opportunity to work with RADAR. While the vast
PICTURED PSNI Chief Constable, George Hamilton, is joined by Jorge Lopes, Diageo Northern Ireland County Director, at the unveiling of the new DRINKiQ branding at RADAR.
majority of people enjoy alcohol responsibly, we consistently work with a range of stakeholders to address the issue of alcohol misuse, alcohol-related harm and anti-social behaviour. We also hope that through our DRINKiQ branding of the Diageo NI conference room, visitors will have the opportunity
to learn more about the effects of alcohol on the body and discover how responsible drinking can be a part of a balanced lifestyle.” Diageo Northern Ireland joins Charles Hurst, Nationwide, Spar, John Minnis, Clear Channel, Farm Safety Foundation and Fujitsu as a sponsor of RADAR.
Local Pupil Evie Wins Vouchers An East Belfast pupil has won book vouchers for her school after her book review appeared in NI4Kids in conjunction with Specsavers
WIN NER
vie McCann, a P5 pupil from Strandtown Primary School, has won £100 worth of book E vouchers for her school from her local Specsavers
STORY >>> A SPECIAL COLLABORATION BETWEEN SPECSAVERS AND LOCAL SCHOOLS.
STORY >>> TEN YEARS AGO OUR LADY & ST PATRICK’S COLLEGE SCHOOL PROGRESSED TO CONTEST AN ALL-IRELAND COLLEGES ‘C’ FINAL WITH A PROMISING GROUP OF STUDENTS, INCLUDING ELEVEN PANELLISTS FROM THE CARRYDUFF CLUB, ONE OF WHOM, SEÁN MOLLOY, PICKED UP AN ULSTER COLLEGES ALL-STAR AWARD FOR HIS CONTRIBUTION THAT YEARS. WWW KNOCK.CO.UK
STORY >>> PROSPECTIVE PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS AND THEIR PARENTS/ GUARDIANS WERE INVITED TO TOUR THE SCHOOL AND WITNESS AT FIRST HAND THE HUGE RANGE OF CURRICULAR, CO AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES WWW GROSVENORGRAMMARSCHOOL .ORG.UK
store, thanks to entering a book review to NI4Kids magazine. Evie’s review of the Making of Mollie by Anna Carey appeared in the Christmas 2016 issue of the popular NI4Kids Magazine’s Reading Corner, which is sponsored by Specsavers in Northern Ireland. Evie recently met with Specsavers Connswater store director Lynsey Caldwell, who
presented her with the £10 book voucher she also won for herself. Lynsey Caldwell said: ‘Specsavers is delighted to support the NI4Kids Reading Corner, it is a great initiative to ensure children are reading as much as they can and enjoying a wide variety of books and stories.’ NI4Kids will feature a book review every month linked to one of the 20 Specsavers stores in Northern Ireland. The writer will receive a £10 book voucher, and £100 Scholastic book vouchers for their school.
SIX RISING STARS OF SPORT - ONE SCHOOL Nestled in the foothills of east Belfast is Our Lady’s and St. Patrick’s College, Knock.
these young men and women. It is refreshing to see OLSPK making such a breakthrough in respect three Dankse Bank Ulster Colleges of these prestigious awards and testimony to the efforts of the Football, one Danske Bank Ulster Colleges Camogie and two Dankse College and local clubs striving to promote Gaelic Games and Bank Ulster Colleges Hurling All achievement at this level. It is Star Awards. It is the only school gratifying to see such high-level in Ulster to have achieved All-Star plaudits recognising students awards in Football, Camogie and from a school that has invested Hurling and is producing Gaelic Athletes of the highest calibre in the in developing its Gaelic games achievements and clubs that strive Colleges sector. The entire school year-in, year-out to developing community is incredibly proud of
en years on the school has had a quite remarkable, in fact T magnificent, achievement securing
the skills and ability of juvenile members. There is little doubt that each of these individual young people must harbour ambitions of representing their County and donning that famous red and black jersey to further develop and display their skills on that higher stage. And who knows? . . . . . It may well be the case that County managers and Selectors may be tasking their Sat Navs to find that quiet and secluded little corner of County Down during term time.
Daniel Guinness - Gaelic Football. Tom Murray - Hurling. Bronagh Dempster - Camogie. Peter Loughran - Hurling. Laoise Duffy - Gaelic Football. Josh Connery - Gaelic Football.
Grosvenor Grammar School Open Evenings Grosvenor Grammar School recently staged its annual Open Evenings. During their journey visitors witnessed experiments in the Science Department and awardwinning projects in Technology and Design, experienced culinary treats in Home Economics and viewed the school’s sporting stars in action in its impressive Sports Hall. In addition those in attendance were afforded the opportunity to attend an address by the School’s Principal, Dr Frances Vasey, on two separate occasions during the evening. A massive range of activities were
showcased throughout the two nights, many taking place against the backdrop of melodious music provided at various locations by the school’s renowned Choir, as well as the String Quartet, Jazz Band and Orchestra, amongst others. Many thanks to the numerous students who participated on each of the evenings and helped the School to fully reflect the wide range of subjects, activities and initiatives on offer for its pupils. We look forward to welcoming visitors back to the school for various other events throughout the remainder of the year.
COCO HAIR & BEAUT Y
MICROBLADING
£99 on first visit £50 top up *
* TOP UP MUST BE DONE WITHIN 4 WEEKS
HAIR EXTENSIONS
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1 LIBRARY COURT • BALLYHACKAMORE BELFAST • BT4 3EZ FOR BOOKINGS CALL 028 9543 9890 ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO 42,000 HOMES • CALL 02890 200988 •STUART@LOOPMAG.NET
Could YOU give me love, fun and security...
’til I grow up?
Throughout the Belfast and South Eastern Trust areas there are children of all ages who may never be able to live with their birth parents – they need a permanent home for the rest of their childhood. If you are resilient, flexible and have the energy and time to care for the demands of a child, come along to our
Information evening
Thursday 9th February 2017 from 7-9pm Crowne Plaza Hotel, Shawsbridge, Belfast Talk to experienced social workers, meet people already providing a home for life, learn more about the children, ask as many questions as you need to. Foster carers receive financial allowances; in some cases a fee may also be available.
Call 028 9504 0057
to register your interest or email: mairead.sloan@setrust.hscni.net Belfast Health and Social Care Trust caring supporting improving together
www.adoptionandfostering.hscni.net
20 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// THE ARTS
CONNECTING EAST BELFAST & KENYA
ART IST
STORY >>> Clinton Kirkpatrick : “The next time that I go back to Kenya I will take Kenyan stories back to the place and spac e in a visual form,” says Clinton. “I collected stories from Kenyan people throughout September 2016. I took my camera and sketchbook and I filmed 88 stories that I will make work from. I have been in and out of Kenya since 2011 and in 2012 I met John Silver Kimani when he taught me woodcut printmaking. During May 2014 I had a large exhibition at the Nairobi Museum and this was the first time that Silver and I started thinking about exhibiting together. I organised an exhibition at home which ran at Seacourt Print Workshop in Bangor in February 2016. Silver was denied a visa to travel to and enter the UK after much excitement surrounding the idea of an excursion over here. It’s a shame that he was not able to attend - there was great anticipation around him attending it and visiting my home place....” WWW CLINTONKIRKPATRICK.COM EXHIBITION Ards Arts Centre in March 2017 : ‘I ask you, do you believe in miracles?’
L-R / Joh n S il ver K iman i. The lak e o f happin e s s . Wo o dcu t / Joh n S il ver K imani. Th e c i t y o f j o y. Wo o dcu t / Joh n S il ver K imani. Th e j o y o f the rich . Wo o dcu t .
Clinton Kirkpatrick is a painter and printmaker living in East Belfast. He has had a 6 year relationship with Kenya, East Africa... “...From that exhibition, at Seacourt, grew the idea of a joint exhibition in Nairobi. My work changed last year and it has become about telling other stories, not just my own. To retain a link to Kenya I felt that it was important to go back and explore an authentic place instead of what it was to be a white man in a black society – by authentic I mean Kenyan people and their own stories. One might ask whether there is any need for me to be there at all collecting
stories but my fundamental interest in the human is why I felt it was important for me to go back as I had already established a relationship. I wanted to explore what it was to be Kenyan in 2016. The stories I collected were amazing and as I set no brief I welcomed an incredible wealth and variety of stories from young and older people. My hope is to be going back to Kenya in 2018 after spending the next year making print-works.”
CLINTON KIRKPATRICK Clinton Kirkpatrick is a painter and printmaker from Northern Ireland. His work is often vibrant, colourful, dynamic and in conversation with a society. Clinton pursued and artistic pathway from leaving school and he completed a BA Hons: Painting and Drawing at the University of Huddersfield in 2008. He currently lives and works in Belfast and Bangor. Clinton is interested in storytelling and how we, as humans, seek an experience of being alive so that we actually feel the rapture of life; in Clinton’s work he has drawn inspiration from his own personal journey and place within societies, mythic narratives and finding autonomy within a restricted society. He finds interesting concepts that examines how people have had methods of existing/limitations placed upon them within society today. Clinton invents new characters which are now an intrinsic part of his work. He can better imagine an issue or scenario being explored by various characters; they inhabit spaces and explore their surroundings. His work can mimic what he sees and it becomes something relatable to challenge the space that they are in. He learnt the art of
L-R / 2 . C lin ton K ir k patrick . B u tter f l y cr o s sing th e r oad. Wo o dcu t / C lint on K ir k patrick . A n ip an d a punch . Wo o dcu t / 7. C lin ton K ir k pat rick . Men tor. Wo o dcu t / 5. C linton K ir k patrick . A bi tch and he r m one y. Wo o dcu t
woodcut printmaking from John Silver in 2012 when he was on a second residency in Kenya. Drawing is an instrumental part of his practice as it demonstrates a cohesion with the various ways that he currently makes work.
JOHN SILVER KIMANI John Mbugua Kimani (trade name - John Silver Kimani) is an East African artist from Kenya and is a painter and printmaker. John Silver started his art career at a very young age creating paintedworks and sculptures. It wasn’t until later on in life, however, that he decided to pursue an artistic pathway and take a more serious approach to an artistic career. He drew inspiration for artists at Banana Hill Art Studio, in Kenya, and the Ngecha region in Central Kenya. John Silver’s paintings
and print-works have a dream-like quality to them; his work is full of colour, texture and fantasy. He draws inspiration from the surrounding world and delves into his imagination to create iconic, individual and stunning artworks. His woodcut prints and paintings have found their way into several institutions, among them the Victoria and Albert Museum collections in London. In 2015 John Silver won a Japanese award for best printmaker and was awarded a solo exhibition at the Yokohama Museum of Art in Japan in 2016. John Silver takes a keen interest in the teaching of others. He runs various workshops at the Kuona Trust, in Kenya, and he works with disadvantaged children, who live in the slums around Kenya, with his own ongoing project called Rhino Care Art Project that takes art and colourful learning into the hearts and minds of many people.
Artful Ageing on the EastSide
The Sound of Silence @ ArtisAnn Gallery
Creative Workshops for Seniors
Thursday 2nd Feb 2017 – Saturday 25th Feb 2017 @ ArtisAnn Gallery
S
PICTURED Artist Kirsty McGuinness from Redhead Thread, workshop participant June Jordan and Jacqueline O’Hagan from EastSide Arts.
A
12-week art project, delivered by EastSide Arts and supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland, aimed at breaking down isolation, loneliness and promoting well-being amongst older residents of east Belfast, began recently. Taking place at the EastSide Visitor Centre, the free drop-in workshops include craft, creative writing, interactive music workshops and printmaking. All seniors who would like to try their hand at a new creative activity are warmly invited to attend one of the workshops. 8th - 22nd Feb will be dedicated to creative writing with Jan Carson where we will think about our own stories and how to write them. 1-22nd March will be dedicated to some interactive music workshops where we will learn to make lots of noise and possibly our own EastSide band. 22 Mar - 5th April will be dedicated to dry point print making with Clinton Kirkpatrick where images will be incised onto plate with a hard pointed needle and then colour will be added. Tea and coffee is provided for participants so why not come along and get creative! www.eastsidearts.net
pecial NI Science Festival Event - Wed 15th Feb 7pm: Sound Performance by Josephine McCormick The Sounds of Science is an exhibition of digital artworks, which combine print making and digital audio technology to celebrate significant events and discoveries in science that have resulted in paradigm shifts in our knowledge of how the world, and the universe, works. Josephine McCormicks’ work weaves sound and voice within visual layers towards producing art that is beautiful, delicate and extraordinary. Josephine has visually rendered the voice of significant scientists and embedded them within her artworks. This enables viewers to have an immersive experience of breakthrough moments in scientific history. Significant voices will include: Jocelyn Bell Burnell , John Stewart Bell , Albert Einstein, Neil Armstrong , Andre Konstantin Geim and Konstantin Sergeevich Novoselov , Craig Venter , Stephen Hawking, Alexander Graham Bell and Michio Kaku. Thursday 2nd Feb 2017 – Saturday 25th Feb 2017 Preview: Wed 1st Feb, 6pm to 8pm Tue - Fri: 11am to 6pm Sat: Midday to 5pm 70 Bloomfield Avenue Belfast BT5 5AE www.artisann.org
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22 • FEATURES / LOCAL BUSINESS
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
Can My Pet Feel Pain? Well of course they can! We all know that. When we think about it, it’s as obvious to us as a “spare” sausage to a Labrador. It doesn’t take a canine psychiatrist to work out that the sausage sarnie is rarely far from the thoughts of the Labrador, but how often do we really take time to think through how to tell when our pet is in discomfort….?
I
can think of three times in a pet’s life where Sophie, Niall and I regularly need to consider with you how best to care for your pet when pain is identified or anticipated. · Accidents (eg injury or result of an “oops, I shouldn’t have eaten/jumped onto/jumped off that” moment!) · Surgery (eg planned surgery like some orthopaedic surgery or neutering or urgent surgery like a larger wound) · Illness (eg showing signs of developing arthritis or some intestinal diseases eg pancreatitis.) Today I wanted to briefly talk about how we ensure your pet remains as comfortable as possible in the event of them needing a surgical procedure. I will discuss pain relief in accidents and illness in a separate article. It’s vital that a pet having an operation receives not just an ‘anti-inflammatory jag’, but excellent and planned pain control. So what do we do about pain control for our surgery patients? At Ashwood, we have our own unique and robust pain relief protocol for every surgery case, using some of the most powerful yet kindest pain relief agents available, not just a quick anti-
inflammatry jab. Its a bit like a January pyjama day at home where the combination of the sofa, a couple of blankies, plenty of cushions, a mug of Ovaltine and a hot water bottle by the fire is so much better than the comfort level provided by a kitchen chair on the hard floor. (Ok, so Ovaltine isn’t your fav, but it still sounds cosy, right?) Of course, our nurses ensure that our hospitalised patients benefit from much of the above anyway in terms of kennel comfort (except for the Ovaltine), along with plenty of extra attention which also contributes a lot to patient comfort. But a comfortable fur baby nest is obviously not enough on it’s own. We use a combination of FIVE different kinds of medical pain relief for our patients on the day of an operation, which allows us to control pain highly effectively, yet using much lower (and safer) doses of any particular medication. This is a pain control regime for our surgery patients which we have developed by continual reevaluation over the years of what provides the maximum comfort and safety for our patients, and as it’s been uniquely developed, tried and tested by us at Ashwood. This unique system, which is geared for comfortable operations, is not used anywhere else.
Our patients then go home with a minimum of a further two days’ pain relief at home (included of course for spays and castrates), by which time they are usually feeling fully back to normal. This is easily extended if, when we chat with you in the following days an extension would be helpful.
ASHWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC 71 COMBER ROAD, DUNDONALD, BT16 2AE 028 90 419374 HELLO@ASHWOODVETS.COM
Of course, for some conditions, such as if your pet has had larger skin surgery or abdominal surgery or a complex orthopaedic operation, we will likely have arranged more extended combination pain relief course for going home. I know that after my own operation on my elbow a couple of summers ago, despite my initial anxiety, adequate analgesia at hospital left me feeling good about the whole experience. Rebecca would probably say I came out still just a smidge “high”; very happy and not sore and saying a few odd nonsensical things! But then whilst our beloved pets are brilliant communicators and influencers in so many ways and have most of us wound around their thumbs dewclaws, none of the pets I’ve met to date can talk, so we’ll miss out on that particular post-operative amusement! Something to try at home Here’s something that would be really useful for you to do at home post-operatively. Our nurses regularly use pain-scoring with our hospitalised patients in helping the vets assess the comfort of our patient.
Here’s a handy simplified version for easy and quick home use for you:
A wee quiz & offer, just for fun. For the month of February, tell our receptionist Kelly how many types of pain control are in Ashwood’s unique pain control regime for 1. When undisturbed, is your pet operations, and you can choose quiet/silent? Yes/No to receive a £25 voucher off dog 2. Is your pet generally ignoring neutering (any sex) or a £15 voucher the wound or sore area? Yes/No off cat neutering (any sex). 3. If you encourage your pet to The vouchers will be made valid for move, do they do so normally/fairly 6 months and if your pet is already willingly? Yes/No neutered or you don’t want to neuter 4. Does your pet seem generally them, or if you already have one of comfortable and content? Yes/No our neutering discount vouchers 5. If you carefully apply very they’re fully transferable to a friend. gentle finger pressure two inches The reception number for Kelly away from the sore area, are they is 028 90 419374 or her email is content for you to do so? Yes/No kelly@ashwoodvets.com Thanks for reading, If you get a “No” answer to any two with warm regards, Patrick. of these questions, give us a call PS for a free postoperative check-up If you have any questions about and to discuss additional pain relief pain relief, don’t hesitate to send measures. me an email and I will reply.
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24 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// LOCAL HISTORY BY AIDAN CAMPBELL (BEM) • EASTBELFASTHISTORY.COM (Courtesy of Michael McMullan)
(Courtesy of Tony Merrick)
(Courtesy of Robert McIlveen)
(Courtesy of H Crawford Millar)
(Courtesy of Robert Murray)
(Courtesy of Wilson & Victoria Moore )
The Mail Always Gets Through Now that the dust has settled on Christmas I was reflecting on the number of greetings cards that arrived at our house, courtesy of our hard-working postman. But what has been the experience of posting or receiving mail in East Belfast over the years? POST OFFICE CORNER
Taken in the early 1950s and captioned ‘Post Office Corner’, the name over the door to the building at the far right, beside Kingsway Avenue, is E. H. Bryce. There had been a Post Office previously at the Stye Brae, Gilnahirk since the 1890s. The taller building in the middle was a grocer and petrol station at 46 Gilnahirk Road with the name A.A. Taylor above the door and there were lockup garages behind the shop.
STYE BRAE GILNAHIRK
In this 1895 photo the Post Office was in the single-story cottage to the left, with the two small girls standing outside, and it was operated by J. McMaster before it moved to the new Lecture Hall (which cost £830) in November 1899 - now the site of the Stye Brae Centre. A Mrs. McFarland was the first tenant of the new shop and dwelling and in 1902 Wesley Forbes became the second tenant. A telephone kiosk was erected outside the Brae
Stores in 1938. Notice the Rocky Road as it goes to the right past the graveyard and the article of equipment belonging to the blacksmith at the bottom right-hand corner.
THE CHURCH ON THE STYE BRAE
The original Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church, ‘The Church on the Stye Brae’ was built in 1787. There is a double-decker bus parked outside in this early 1960s view. The building behind the bus is the Lecture Hall which contained the Brae Stores sub-Post Office and the caretaker’s apartment. The white painted building next door to the Lecture Hall is a stable where horses were kept on a Sunday whilst congregants attended church. In the 1900s Gilnahirk was a rural community and people travelled by horse or pony and trap.
CASTLEREAGH SUB POST OFFICE
The seated figure outside Castlereagh sub-Post Office in 1906 is post master John Hewitt with
his wife Anna and daughters Evelyn, Hilda (who delivered the mail) and Margaret plus son William Hewitt to the far left. John was also sexton of neighbouring Castlereagh Presbyterian Church. The post office moved to Lisnabreeny Road in 1934 and is currently based within Spar at the crossroads of Ballygowan Road and Upper Knockbreda dual carriageway. The name of ‘post office’ is barely visible on the signage on the wall above the family.
THE TELEGRAM BOYS
Robert Murray left school in 1946 and started with the Post Office the same year. He worked as a Post Office Telegram Boy until 1950 and was stationed at Strandtown Post Office situated at 161 Holywood Road, facing the Strand Picture House. Mrs Walsh was Post Mistress and her deputy was her niece, Miss McCourt. There were 2 other Telegram Boys also stationed at Strandtown (brothers Roy & David Finlay) and one of them took this photo of
Robert outside the Strand Picture House. They delivered all kinds of news to people, as there were very few telephones in those days and a telegram was a quick means of communication. The job of the Post Office Telegram messenger was to make sure whatever the weather and however steep the hills that they got the news through. To have a Telegram Boy cycle into your street was quite an event. Many neighbours would appear at their doors or peer out of windows to see whose house was receiving a telegram. It might have been news of polls win!
CARRYDUFF JUNCTION
A view of the Carryduff junction, where Saintfield Road and Ballynahinch Road meet, during the ‘Big Snow’ of 1963. Real commitment from Postman Bob McIlveen and some friends who are working hard to dig out the mail van during very difficult conditions and ensuring that the mail gets through.
Aidan Campbell has previously published 12 East Belfast local history books entitled: Beaconsfield, Knock, Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk, Castlereagh, Cregagh, Stormont, Sydenham, Belmont, East Belfast Revisited Volumes 1 & 2 and Ballymacarrett. Also Belfast Through Time and Newtownbreda. He regularly gives illustrated talks to local groups and societies. The books are available at Hillmount Garden Centre, Marie Curie Hospice and Hamilton News Cregagh with profits donated to local charity.
BOOK SALES ONLINE AT: WWW.EASTBELFASTHISTORY.COM
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
“
Take an hour or two to relax and unwind in the safe hands of our professional team at Rejuvalase Beauty & Laser Clinic. • Experienced and qualified staff • Affordably priced treatments • Extended weekday opening hours If you’d like to know more about any of our services, contact our East Belfast salon now.
“
WE ALSO OFFER MANICURES & PEDICURES ACRYLIC & SHELLAC NAILS WAXING BODY WRAPS & SCRUBS SPRAY TANNING WITH VITA LIBERATA TATTOO REMOVAL
FEATURES
• 25
LOCAL BUSINESS ///
REJUVALASE BEAUTY EXPERIENCE THE ART OF CARING Whether you’re in need of a relaxing massage, a prescription facial or one of our holistic therapies, you’ll love the peaceful atmosphere of this East Belfast Belfast’s beauty salon. MASSAGE
Put yourself in the expert hands of our talented massage therapists and let us ease away the stresses and strains of everyday living. Whether you choose one of our relaxing full body massages, or you’d prefer a sports massage, you’ll love how it makes you feel. A range of massages to treat all kinds of conditions; Swedish massage, Sports massage, Pregnancy, Baby massage, Massage to ease the pain of arthritis, Indian head massage and aromatherapy massage.
HOLISTIC THERAPIES
Our holistic therapists are experienced in delivering a range of treatments which will have you feeling wonderful in no time at all. Enjoy a range of holistic treatments in our relaxed and stress free salon Reflexology – working on the pressure points of your feet, Aromatherapy massages using top quality essential oils, Indian head massage – for the ultimate in relaxation, Hopi ear candling – an age old therapy – All carried out by fully qualified holistic therapists
MINIMI
A revolutionary new body wrap that will result the following: Fat reduction (not fluid) from problem areas / Tighter and firmer skin / Reduction in the appearance of cellulite / Most clients loose between 6-9 inches in 1 hours / You see the results adter just one treatment! AND…fat reduction continues for up to 72 hours after treatment! NO messy mud, we use a beautifully scented hydrating body oil. NO perspiration, you are kept comfortable body temperature to allow the oil absorb into your skin.
FACIALS
Galvanic Facial Treatments have the following benefits: Aids in delivering key ingredients to the skin / Optimised pulsating galvanic current aids in stimulating skin, helps purify and refresh skin, and helps reduce the visible signs of ageing / Laboratory research demonstrates that treatments with a Galvanic current can enhance the delivery of anti-ageing ingredients for up to 24 hours. Express Mini Facial – Cleanser tone, Deep pore cleanse. Treatment for
lifting, toning and firming. Finish with hydration rejuvenating serum Acne Facial – Re – Surfacing, Mud mask, ageLOC (Galvanic treatment both setting 1 and 2 for Skin Conditioning and clearing). Finish with clear action day cream / night depending on time of day. Eye Bag & Dark Circle Removal Facial – Galvanic facial as above including ideal eyes treatment.
HD BROWS
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OTHER TREATMENTS & PRODUCTS
The results your going to see with a Dermalogica skin treatment are unlike anything else in the industry because we exfoliate the skin, we double cleanse the skin, we do extractions, tailor-made customized massage and masque technique. you’re going to see your skin glowing, more luminous, hydrated,: The Dermatologica Skin Treatment (60 minutes) / The Dermatologica Express Skin Treatment (40 minutes) / Agesmart Treatment (70 minutes) / Ultraclaming Treatment (50 minutes) / Medibac Clearing Treatment (65 minutes)
It’s a unique treatment for creating perfectly well-groomed, high definition eyebrows. The HD Brows procedure transforms the way you look and more importantly, how you feel. Unlike other eyebrow treatments that use a ‘one shape fits all’ technique, HD Brows stylists assess face shape and colouring before creating a bespoke brow, tailored exclusively for the client. We also offer a variety of other beauty treatments including nails (gel/acrylic extensions) male waxing, intimate waxing (female only). We also stock Kelticandles; a 100% luxury soy wax candle makers in Belfast. You are guaranteed that our soy wax candles are clean burning, do not contain paraffin wax, which many other candle makers would use, making a kelticandle suitable for asthmatics and eco-aware people alike. Also we sotck Juice Plus; whole food based nutrition, including juice powder concentrates from 30 different fruits, vegetables and grains.
/// For more information or to make an appointment: 448 Newtownards Rd, BT4 1HJ • 02890 469 447 • rejuvalase@outlook.com • rejuvalasebeauty.co.uk
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Rejuvalase-Beauty-Laser-Clinic
26 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// HOUSE & HOME
THIS IS THE YEAR OF THAT PROJECT
We all do it. We start the New Year with great intentions for sorting out this area/that room. I suggest start small and build from there. Whether it’s a declutter that you’re after or a refresh; here’s some tips to help you get started!
REFOUND REFOUND SHOWROOM IS A UNIQUE INTERIORS EMPORIUM THAT OFFERS A RANGE OF UP-CYCLED, RE-DESIGNED AND VINTAGE HOMEWARE AND GIFTS. WE TURN THE ORDINARY INTO THE EXTRA-ORDINARY!
OFFICE/STORAGE ROOM
If it’s a box room that you want to tackle, firstly clear out all the stuff you don’t need any more! Then survey the leftovers to decide on what storage you’ll need. Does it need to be hidden away so that you can double up on the usage? Or will open shelves do the trick? If you have some nice choice items to store – big chunky open shelves could be a nice way to display these and use nice storage boxes for the paperwork stuff. Inject some colour by adding a few pictures in between.
WWW REFOUNDONLINE.COM
Jill ONeill
“
Here I’ve focused on some classic clutter areas to reinvent. If you are thinking of a style theme, then get some inspiration from Pinterest or magazines before jumping in. Research furniture and storage that suits your theme, so you know the options. Then you can do some digging to find the storage/ furniture/ lighting that suits the look
/// Home office with vintage pieces
HALL ENTRANCE
A classic clutter area. If you need more storage - make it interesting! Make it part of the scheme. If you are going for a vintage look use old shop boxes – their old imagery and sign writing adds a lovely provenance. If you have the room add a church pew or Monks bench to create a boot room look to encourage your family to keep all shoes and coat in that area!
STORAGE
Vintage apothecary drawers are great as they have lots of drawers to organise your clutter. Haberdashery units are the same – great for the kitchen or living room. /// Apothecary chest £695. Haberdashery unit as kitchen storage
VIEW ONLINE www.onthesquareemporium.com & www.refoundonline.com
/// Vintage boxes from £30 & 2nd World War leathertrimmed trunk £295. Victorian Pine Church pew £295
VISIT US Unit A3, 17 Heron Road, Bt3 9LE past B&Q, off Airport Road. Behind DFC Cars.
“
ENDURING DESIGN
IKEA LAUNCH
Since the twenties Lloyd Loom furniture has graced ocean liners, grand hotels and even the royal box at Wimbledon. Here’s a history of the company and where you can source yours locally.
Pictured is the Ikea PS 2017 range; “Independent. Unconventional. Living life without compromise. The products in the IKEA PS 2017 collection are the keys to freedom for a generation that lives by its own rules.”
NEW RANGES FOR 2017
LLO YD LOOM FURNITURE
A
lthough it looks like rattan, the furniture is made from paper and wire, a technique pioneered by American Marshall Burns LLoyd nearly 100 years ago. Aged 17, he began designing woven linen baskets and baby carriages using traditional cane or willow but hit on a cheaper material made from twisted paper and steel wire. In 1919 he sold the patent of the manufacturing process to London salvage merchant William Lusty who set up a company making furniture. However it was on the brink of collapse when
London & North Eastern Railway began using Lloyd Loom furniture in its hotels. Suddenly it was chic. In 1940 the firm’s east London Bow Street factory was bombed but craftsmen continued to revive per-war pieces. Geoffrey Lusty, William’s grandson, still oversees many original designs now produced in the Far East. In 1985 furniture maker David Breese began creating them in Spalding, Lincolnshire. Nowadays a number of companies produce a range of items ensuring the much-loved furniture remains in our homes.
A Available from Artiqua 90 High St, Holywood 028 9042 2227 www.lloydloom.com
lso launched is SPRIDD - a print-based collection of tents, bags, storage boxes and cushion covers (plus lots of other funtastic pieces) for everyone who’s on the move, JASSA Characterised by curved lines, natural materials, and vibrantly patterned textiles, plus of course the new summer collection; SOMMAR. www.ikea.com
n i o j & e m o c
Free Food February at Slimming World Join a group near you and discover the secret of hunger-free slimming...
Slimming World’s 60
Free & easy
fa b s Fre e rec ipe utes in 30 min or less
FREE
COOKBOOK worth £4.95 with every 12-week Countdown course 29th January – 25th February
MONDAY
MOUNTPOTTINGER Mountpottinger Methodist 188 Albertbridge Road, 9:30am & 11:30am Contact: Deborah 07708 373567 ROSETTA Knockbreda Methodist Church, 60-66 Rosetta Road, BT6 0LU 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Sharon 07717 822284 BALLYMACARRETT St Patricks Church, 212 Newtownards Road, BT4 1GZ 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Jo 07542 990597
TUESDAY
ULSTER TEMPLE 276 Ravenhill Road BT68GL 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Rosemary 07549 081079 CASTLEREAGH McQuiston Memorial Castlereagh Road 7:30pm Contact: Victoria 07999 346742
TUESDAY
CASTLEREAGH The Royal British Legion Montgomery Road BT6 9JD 9:30am Contact: Esther 07804 095409 CASTLEREAGH The Royal British Legion Montgomery Road BT6 9JD 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Adrian 07808 532291 STORMONT Stormont Pavillion 9:30 am 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Jo 07542 990597 BALLYHACKAMORE Bloomfield Collegiate School, Astoria Gardens, BT5 6HW 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Sally 07738 713436
WEDNESDAY
GILNAHIRK Gilnahirk Baptist Church 2 Middle Braniel Road, BT5 7TU 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Ashleigh 07731 420680 CONNSBROOK Strand Church 161 Connsbrook Avenue 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Michelle 07857 131766
slimmingworld.co.uk/FreeFoodFeb
0344 897 8000
WEDNESDAY
BLOOMFIELD Presbyterian Church, 447 Beersbridge Road, Bloomfield, BT5 5DW 9:30am & 3:30pm 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Deborah 07708 373567 KNOCKNAGONEY Church of Ireland, Aslan Centre, 13A Knocknagoney Road, BT18 9QU 5:30 & 7:30pm Contact: Rebecca-Ruth 07576 895195
THURSDAY
HOLYWOOD CFC Community Hall, 65 Church View, Holywood BT18 9HW 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Sally 07738 713436
THURSDAY
CREGAGH Harding Memorial Primary School Cregagh Road, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Lindsay 07896 709234 DUNDONALD St Elizabeths Church of Ireland Church Green, Dundonald BT16 2LP 5:30pm & 7.30pm Contact: Michelle 07753 745301
FRIDAY
CREGAGH Cregagh Methodist Church Cregagh Road, BT6 9EQ 9:30am Contact: Lindsay 07896 709234
SATURDAY
BRANIEL Braniel Church Corner of Woodview Drive, BT5 7PY 5:30pm & 7:30pm Contact: Ashleigh 07731420680
GARNERVILLE Shorts Recreational Club Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 1SL 9:30am Contact: Lyndsay 07896 913600
BELMONT Belmont Presbyterian, 92 Sydenham Avenue, BT4 2DT 9:30am Contact: Sally 07738 713436
ULSTER TEMPLE 276 Ravenhill Road BT68GL 9:30am & 11:30am, Contact: Rosemary 07549 081079
28 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// HISTORICAL RESOURCE
EAST BELFAST A N D T H E G R E AT W A R In December an important historical resource was launched to the public and it will be of a particular interest to people connected to East Belfast. BY JASON BURKE
CO-ORDINATOR : THE EAST BELFAST & THE GREAT WAR RESEARCH PROJECT
For the past two years the East Belfast & The Great War Research Project (led by myself ) has been working to compile a database that would, as far as possible, contain the details of every single serviceman from East Belfast who served in the First World War.
I
t has been an arduous and painstaking process, but one that is nudging towards completion some time in the next year after every source has been consulted in entirety. At the time of writing this article the database can call upon the details of c.6000 men (and some women) who had a residency in East Belfast and served during the Great War; it is anticipated that the list will surpass 10,000 individuals. In December 2016 it was possible to publish a searchable online database containing the names of c.1000 East Belfast fatalities of the First World War; this is not an exhaustive list, rather a sample of the findings to date. The names can be accessed at www. EastBelfastWW1.com free of charge. Another aspect of the project has been to host a series of First World War Antiques Roadshow events across East Belfast. Members of the
public were encouraged to come forward with their First World War artifacts and family heirlooms where they could be digitized, catalogued and interpreted with the assistance of the ‘Living Legacies Research Centre’ from Queen’s University Belfast. The roadshow events unearthed some incredible items (and their connected stories) across four locations; from a Chinese man’s ponytail, to a photograph of a lady in her husband’s military uniform, or a nurse’s autograph and sketch book which had been compiled at a military hospital, and many more in between. Some of the items have formed part of an exhibition at the Ulster Museum, Belfast called ‘Remembering 1916: Your Stories’ and it can be visited until Sunday 19 March 2017. The details and images of each item that was consulted during the roadshow process is
now available to search and browse online free of charge at EastBelfastWW1.com Working with the local community was a vital part of the East Belfast & The Great War project. Over the past two years we have worked on Research Skills Workshops with local groups in East Belfast. This involved guiding the groups through a step-by-step process for carrying out research into First World War servicemen culminating in a set of short biographies of individuals from a particular area in East Belfast. This was an extremely rewarding process for all involved and the end product is a small display that is currently touring the libraries of East Belfast. The display can be viewed in Woodstock Library during the month of January, Dundonald Library during February, Holywood Arches Library during March, and Ballyhackamore during April.
P L E A SE F E E L F RE E TO CO NT I N U E S H A RING WIT H ME YO UR FIR ST WO R L D WA R FA MILY STORIE S AND PHOTOGRAPHS VI A EMAI L AT JB U RK E 0 7 @ Q U B . AC. U K W W W. E ASTB E L FASTW W 1. COM
GROSVENORG AM ARSCHO L MGROSVEARNINOA RP RGK, BEALFMAST, BAT5R6BSACHO L
GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL MARINA PARK, BELFAST, BT5 6BA
Tel: 028 9070 2777 www.grosvenorgrammarschool.org.uk
New Weekly Drop-in
Mindfulness Meditation Class Being mindful basically means switching from 'doing' to 'being'. It may sound easy but for most of us we are on autopilot a lot of the time and we need a little bit of support to develop the skilful art of being. So whether you are a seasoned meditator or you are just starting out, please join us for an exploration into the art of being. The class theme will vary from week to week but will include movement based meditation as well as seated and lying down meditations. Get ready to access relaxation and rejuvenation resulting in a quieter and calmer you. This class is paid for by voluntary donation.
Mondays 6pm to 7pm from 6 February - 10 April 2017 at East Belfast Network Centre 55 Templemore Avenue For more information contact Clare Flynn at EBCDA on 028 9045 1512 or clare@ebcda.org
GROSVENOR G OPEN NIGHTS MARINA PAR
Tel: 028 9070 2777 www Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th January 2017 Thursday 9th January 2014 6.30 pm - 9.00 pm T m
GROSVENOR SCHOOL All Primary School pupilsGRAMMAR and their parents are invited to attend
OPEN N Monday 13th March at 7pm
Year Thirteen Information Evening MARINA PARK, BELFAST, BT5 6BA
Principal’s Address 7.15pm & 8.00pm Tel: 028 9070 2777 www.grosvenorgrammarschool.org.uk
OPEN NIGHTS
Wednesday 4th and T Thursday 9th Januar T SENIOR SCHOOL AT GROSVENOR OFFERS YOU: All Primary School pupils an • A wide range of A Level courses Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th January 2017 Addr ManyJanuary extra and2014 co-curricular Thursday• 9th 6.30 activities pm -Principal’s 9.00 pm T m • World All Primary School pupils and class theirfacilities parents are invited to attend All pupils interested in studying A Levels at Grosvenor are Principal’s Address 7.15pm & 8.00pm invited to attend with their parents
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO 42,000 HOMES • CALL 02890 200988 •STUART@LOOPMAG.NET
13th United Airlines
Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival ®
5 Days 30 Concerts 100 Songwriters
1-5 March
PAUL BRADY, DARRELL SCOTT & DECLAN O’ROURKE Paul Brady In Conversation KIMMIE RHODES, Gareth Dunlop & Brian Houston KAZ HAWKINS, PETER MCVEIGH RYAN MCMULLAN, URSULA BURNS MAC MCANALLY, TRIONA
tickets available from www.belfastnashville.com or visit belfast welcome centre Telephone: 028 9024 6609
30 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN EAST BELFAST? • MUMS & TOTS MONDAY CALVARY MUMS & TODDLERS. 10.30-12.00am. £1 per family. 100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 EAST END BAPTIST TINY TOTS (Westbourne street). Each Monday during term time 10:30-12noon. £1 donation. Tel: 07786 962220. LITTLE STARS The Salvation Army 110 Cregagh Road Toys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 years. 028 9045 4466. SYDENHAM PARENT & TODDLER Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family. Inverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456 ST FINNIANS 10-11.30. Cregagh Park, 028 9079 2793. WANDSWORTH MUMS & CHUMS 10-11.30am. Wandsworth CC. £1 26a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698
TUESDAY ALBERTBRIDGE CONGREGATIONAL 10.30-12.15. Woodstock Link. Donation £1 CFC MOPS & TOTS 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total for more. Tea/coffee/juice/snacks. CFC MOPS 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tues) £3.50 per mum. Breakfast & creche. 10 Belmont Rd. 028 9067 1838 thisiscfc.com GARNERVILLE PRESBYTERIAN 10.15-11.45. Child’s Play - Tea, coffee, juice, snack. £1 per family. MERSEY STREET PRESBYTERIAN. 10-11.45am term time. £1. 028 9065 7025 MCQUISTON TODDLERS 10-11.30am. Toast, juice, tea, coffee & biscuits. McQuiston Memorial, 83 Castlereagh Road. MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH 10am Toddler Group. Tel 07905 144070 Mount Merrion Ave, BT6. ST DONARDS CHURCH 10am-12 Bloomfield Avenue Tel: 028 9065 2321 £1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice STRANDTOWN BAPTIST TOTS 10.00- 11.30am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult TOTS & CO 10.15- 11.45am (term time). Cregagh Methodist Church. £1.50 per family (juice/snack & tea) 28-30 Cregagh Rd. 028 9045 7564
WEDNESDAY BLOOMFIELD PRESBYTERIAN 10-11.30am Phone 028 9047 1103. 447 Beersbridge Rd BUSY BEES 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 10.30am Toddlers SMALLTALK @ ORANGEFIELD 10-11.45am O’field Church & Community, 464 Castlereagh Road. 02890 799391 orangefield.org.uk ST COLMCILLE’S PARENT & TODDLER 10am term time St Colmcille’s Parish Hall (opposite Tesco’s) in Ballyhackamore. Men looking after young children welcome. 191a Upper Newtownards Rd WILLOWFIELD MOTHER & TODDLER 10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654
THURSDAY 123 TOTS 10-11.45am Exchange Church, Albertbridge Road (opposite Keens in the old YMCA building) BLOOMFIELD METHODIST CHURCH 10-11.30am £1 per family Grand Parade 028 9065 8946. CREGAGH PRESBYTERIAN 10am mothers & toddlers. Tel Josephine 028 9065 4181. 102-104 Cregagh Road CREGAGH MUMS & TOTS 10-12pm Cregagh CC. Mount Merrion Avenue. Tel: 028 9040 1444 GILNAHIRK PRESBYTERIAN Thursdays 10-11.30am. £1 per family. 161 Gilnahirk Rd. Tel: Laura 07708 000025 GLENMACHAN TOTS & TODDLERS 10-12 term time. Church of God, Glenmachan Road. Tel 028 9076 1676 glenmachan.org KIRKPATRICK MEMORIAL PRESBYTERIAN Parents & Toddlers. 10-11.30am Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation KNOCK PARENT & TODDLER 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian 53 Kings Road, Gillian 07803 117619.
FRIDAY ST COLUMBA’S MUMS & TOTS 9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road WOODSTOCK LIBRARY RHYTHM & RHYME 10-10.30am. 0-4 years. 358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
•CLASSES & EVENTS MONDAY BALLYHACKAMORE LIBRARY 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204. Ballyhack Book Pack - Adult reading group (1st Mon of the month) 7pm. Knit & Natter 2-4pm. Bedtime Stories 7pm. Womens Book Club (Last Mon of the month) 7pm. Creative Writers (3rd Mon of the month) 6.45pm. Ballyhackamore Crime Reading Group (2nd Mon of the month) 7pm. BEAN BLESSED Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church Tea/ coffee, scones, pastries. 10.30-12 BELMONT TOWER The Programme 6.30-8.30pm. 028 9076 1172 CREGAGH CRICKET CLUB Gibson Park Avenue 028 9045 9440 6.30pm Under 9 & Under 11 cricket training. CREGAGH PRESBYTERIAN Cub Scouts. 6.30pm. Tel John 07809 205579. 102-104 Cregagh Road HARDING MEMORIAL Rainbows 4-7yrs Mon 6pm Brownies 7-10yrs Monday 7pm Guides 10-14yrs Mondays 7pm. Clare 07905 556825. JUNIOR BOYS CLUB (FREE) 6pm-7pm @ St. Judes Parish, Ravenhill Rd P1-P6; Football, craft & games. ORANGEFIELD BAPTIST Ladies Coffee Morning 1st Mon of month 10.30am 37 North Rd SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG Turas Irish Language Total Beginners 10am-Noon/ Upper Intermediate Class 10 -Noon. Childrens Irish Dancing Class 7-8pm. EBM Homework Club (P4-P6) 3.30–5.30pm. Contact Hannah Ferguson 028 9045 8560. Female Body camp from 7-8pm. FREE Trial. Sara Eaches on 07919 146434. Walking Group 6.30pm. STRAND ARTS CENTRE & NI STARS Holywood Rd, BT4 .nistars.com. Singing & dancing 7-8pm TULLYCARNET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH GB Teenies & Explorers (3-8yrs) 6.30-7.30pm, Juniors (9-11yrs) 6.308pm, Seniors & Brigaders (12-18 yrs) 6.30-8.30 Contact Carol 07813 117453. Presbyterian Women’s Group (2nd & 4th Monday of month) 8pm TEL JEAN 02890 486492 WANDSWORTH COMMUNITY 028 9065 1668. Climbing Tree Breakfast club for school children 7.30 - 9am & After School Club each day 2 - 6pm. Children & Teens carnival drumming 6.30pm-7.30pm. Aerobics 7-8pm. Combat 8.15-9.30pm WOODSTOCK LIBRARY Mindful Colouring for adults. 10.30-11.30am 358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
TUESDAY 15TH NI GIRLS BRIGADE Cregagh Methodist 23-30 Cregagh Road Tinies (3-4) 6.15-7.15pm explorers (5-7) 6.15-7.30pm juniors (8-10) 7.00-9.00pm company (11-19) 7.30-9.30pm tel 07783 408609 ARDENLEE LADIES BOWLING CLUB Warm and friendly Club welcoming new members. Experience not necessary, bowls supplied. Ravenhill Green, Ormeau Park, opposite Ravenhill Avenue. 028 9058 6446. Also meet on Thursdays. BALLYHACKAMORE LIBRARY 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204. ART CLASSES - Book your place in Ballyhackamore Library’s monthly art class (Adult). 10-12. Classic Reading Group - share your love of the classics, pick up this months read. Last Tues of the month 11-12. BELMONT TOWER Childrens dance classes 4-7pm. Pregnancy Yoga 8pm-10pm. Belfast Wine Makers 8pm-10pm. Samantha Meditation 7pm-9pm. GILNAHIRK LADIES GROUP Stye Brae Centre @ Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church 10.30am-12.00 MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH Junior puppet club. 3.30pm. P1-P3. Senior puppet club. 4.30pm. P4P7. Tel 07443 334690. Learn to dance. 7.30pm, Ballroom, sequence & Latin. Tel 07547 801383. MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 10.30am Open Door. 2.30pm Senior Citizens (1st&3rd Tues of month). 6.30-7.45pm GB Explorers. 6.30-8pm GB Juniors. 7.30-9.30pm GB Seniors & Brigaders. 8.15pm -PW (2nd&4th Tues) TULLYCARNET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Mixed Bowling Club – 7.30 / Cell Group - 7.30 SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG EBM Women’s Group 7pm-9pm. EBM Homework Club (P4 – P6) 3.30–5.30pm. EBM Choir practice (age 17+) 5.45 – 6.45pm. Irish Language Singing Class from 6 – 7pm. Total beginners Irish language 7-9pm. Irish Language Post Beginners Class 7-9pm. Turas Irish Language Improvers class 7-9pm (Dundonald High) Turas set dancing class from 7-8.30pm. Street League Football at Waterworks 3G Clift-
TODDLER’S GROUPS KIDS CLUBS
onville Rd 3-5pm. Time Out 12.30-12.50.Mens Bible studies 11-12pm. Rang Comhra 7-9pm. WANDSWORTH COMMUNITY 028 9065 1668. Climbing Tree Breakfast club for school children 7.30 - 9am & After School Club each day 2 - 6pm Yoga 10.30--11.30, Irish dancing for kids 5--6, Aerobics 7--8 and Boxing Fitness 8.15-9.30. WOODSTOCK LIBRARY Adult reading group (general). First Tuesday of the month. Adult reading group (crime). Last Tuesday of the month. 6.45-7.45pm. 358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
WEDNESDAY 29TH NI GIRLS BRIGADE Cregagh Congregational. Explorers (3-7) 6:45-8:15pm. Company Section (8-18) 6:45-10pm. Helen 07938 521823. AVONIEL COMMUNITY GARDEN Beside Avoniel Leisure Centre. Open to public 1pm - 3pm. T: 028 9046 7925 BELMONT TOWER Baby massage 10am-1pm. PlayBall NI 9am-1pm. 39th Old Boys Flute Ensemble 7-9pm. Belfast Soroptimists 7.30pm-9. NI Orchid Society 6pm-8pm. Mindfullness 6.30pm-8.30 CREGAGH CRICKET CLUB Gibson Park Avenue, 028 9045 9440 6.30pm Under 13 & Under 15 cricket training. CREGAGH PRESBYTERIAN For seniors - “Evergreens’. 2.30pm. Tel Barbara 028 9045 3829. Beavers. 6.30pm. Tel Carolyn 07816 658507 Squirrels. 6.30pm. Tel 07597 684104 102-104 Cregagh Rd GILNAHIRK HORTICULTURAL & CIVIC SOCIETY 1st Wednesday of the month (Sep-May) 8-9.30pm Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church. GILNAHIRK MENS GROUP 10.30am – cuppa,chat, visiting speaker. Jack Britton Hall, Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church (October-April) GIRLS BRIGADE Bloomfield Ave Congregational. 3 yrs - P4 6.15pm. P5 upwards 7.30pm KNIT & CHAT Dundonald Methodist Church (Rank Road) on alternate Wednesdays, 2-4 pm. Very friendly group who will make you very welcome. Come along and enjoy the fellowship. Enquiries 02890 486247. LUNCHEON CLUB For senior citizens. 12 noon. £1.50. Cregagh Methodist. Pre book on 028 9045 7564. MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH Homework club. 3pm. P1-P3. Homework club. 4pm. P4-P7. Tel 07443 334690. Ladies craft club. T: 028 9058 9149. MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 7.45pm Midweek Prayer. ORANGEFIELD BAPTIST 3.00pm to 4.00pm “Friendship meeting” Come and enjoy cup of tea/ coffee and a chat and some fellowship. Everyone warmly welcomed. ORMEAU TABLE TENNIS CLUB Kids beginners table tennis 6.30-7.30. Adults beginners table tennis 7.30-9. 113 The Mount. OVER 60’S LUNCH CLUB Bloomfield Methodist Church. 12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade. Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book. SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG Kidz GAP - Young children with their Parents/Guardians 10am-12pm. Ladies Senior Friendship Club 2pm-3.30pm. Street Soccer five-a-side Avoniel Leisure Centre 1-3pm. Turas Irish Language Family Class 5.30 – 7pm. Irish Language Post Beginners class 7-9pm. Irish Language support class 12-3pm. Irish Language family class 5.30-7pm. Irish Language intermediate class 7-9pm. Irish Language intermediate exam class 12-3pm. Bible Studies general group 7.308.30pm. STRAND ARTS CENTRE “Wacky Wednesdays” All shows £3.50 TULLYCARNET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Cell Group – 7.30 / House Group – 8pm, Held in 154 Comber Road. Contact - Stephen 02895084930 / 07904498502 WANDSWORTH COMMUNITY Climbing Tree Breakfast club for school children 7.30 - 9am & After School Club each day 2 - 6pm. Sewing 10am-12. Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm. Yoga 7-8.30pm YOUTH DROP IN (FREE) 4-30-6pm @ St.Judes Parish Church Ormeau Rd. Secondary school youths. Pizza, snacks, chat, chill. WOODSTOCK LIBRARY One to one beginners computer lessons. Booking required. 358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
THURSDAY 1ST BALLYMACARRETT OUTDOOR BOWLING April - Sept . Friendly Cub welcoming new members , Experience not necessary, bowls supplied , Ravenhill Green Ormeau Park, opposite Ravenhill Avenue . 90 455678 . ARDENLEE LADIES BOWLING CLUB Warm and friendly Club welcoming new members. Experience not necessary, bowls supplied. Ravenhill Green, Ormeau Park, opposite Ravenhill Avenue. 90 586446. BALLYHACKAMORE LIBRARY 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204. Rhythm & Rhyme (1st & 3rd Thurs of the month) 11.15am. Booking essential. BELMONT TOWER Art classes 10am-1pm. Baby Sensory Classes 10am-1pm. Yoga 6-9pm. East Belfast Historical Society (Every 2nd
LOCAL CLASSES & GROUPS
CONTACT stuart@ loopmag.net
Thursday Sep-May) 7.30pm. CONNSBROOK AVENUE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH Trekkers @ 6:30pm - Games, Quizzes, Crafts, Stories for kids During school term time only. CREGAGH PRESBYTERIAN Girl Guides. 6.30pm. Gillian 028 9187 4687 Brownies. 6.30pm. Vicki 028 9045 8208. Rainbow Guides. 6pm. Claire 07598 866895 MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH Diamontes Dance Group. Tel 07880 880829. MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 10.30-Midday Open Door. 6.30-7.30pm BB Anchor Boys.6.30-8pm BB Junior Section. 7.30-10pm BB Company Section SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCHEON CLUB Midday @ Ballymac Centre. SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG Over’s Luncheon Club 12.30-2pm. EBM homework club (P4-P6) 3.30 – 5.30pm. Turas Tin Whistle beginners 2-3pm.Coffee Morning comhra 10.30-noon. Bible Studies womens group 6.30-7.30 every fortnight. STRAND ARTS CENTRE Weekly screening of classic film TULLYCARNET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Parent and Toddler Group – 10.30-12 noon Contact – Stephen –02895084930 / 07904498502 BB - 6.30 Contact – Irene Mornin - 02890 486475 WANDSWORTH COMMUNITY 028 9065 1668. Boot Camp 7-8 and Core Combat 8.15-9.30. Climbing Tree Breakfast club for school children 7.30 - 9am & After School Club each day 2 - 6pm
FRIDAY AIKIDO MARTIAL ARTS CLUB Belfast Aikido practice on Friday evenings 6:30-9pm and Saturday mornings 9-11am then 11-1pm in the Dojo at unit 9, 45 Ravenhill Road. Contact 07976 758908. ALBERTBRIDGE CONGREGATIONAL 6 Woodstock Link. Friday Friendship. 10.30-12.30pm. BALLYHACKAMORE LIBRARY 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204. Chill Out Family Story. 3.30pm. Tea & Newspapers 9 am-12pm. Mindful Colouring, adult colouring 9am-12. BELMONT TOWER Art Classes 10-1pm. COMBER LEISURE CENTRE Tennis Coaching Indoors 10am - 11am until March 2017 £5 per week , drop in basis. First visit free ! All ages welcome Adrian Armstrong 07890 162944 or email adrianarmstrong10987@gmail.com. EAST END BAPTIST CHILDRENS MEETING 7-8pm. Quizzes, choruses, Bible lessons & lots of fun each week. MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH 3rd Fri of the month - Messy Church. Tel 07880 880829 MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 11am-2pm Mens Lunch Club. 7.30pm Mixed Fellowship bowls SHILOH HALL 6 The Mount, Coffee Morning. 10:30-12. SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG Turas Irish Language Intermediate class 10-12noon. Friday Fusion - arts, crafts, play P1-P7 6:30pm-8pm. Street League Soccer 1.30–5.30pm. 5 a-side football Shaftesbury Community Centre. Tura’s ‘Turning the Lamps Down’ - traditional music, poetry, song, 2nd Fri of each month, 8-late. STRAND ARTS CENTRE Teenage Kicks Film Club 4.15 WANDSWORTH COMMUNITY Climbing Tree Breakfast club for school children 7.30 - 9am & After School Club each day 2 - 6pm Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pm. Kids Ju Jitsu 6-8pm. B’fast Boxing Fitness 8.15pm. WOODSTOCK LIBRARY Knit and Natter 2.00-3.00pm.358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
SATURDAY AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER Intervention for pre-school children with difficulty in communication and play skills. Parent & child intervention sessions. shootingstars@europe.com 07471 169685 AVONIEL COMMUNITY GARDEN 1-3pm. T: 028 9046 7925 MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH SunshineFit Kids - keep fit. SKAINOS BUILDING SKAINOS.ORG Walking Group on selected Saturdays at 10am. Contact Gary Allen on 028 9045 8560. STRAND ARTS CENTRE & NI STARS Stage school. 10-1pm WOODSTOCK LIBRARY Storytime (4-8 years) 10.00-10.30am 358 Woodstock Road. Tel 028 9050 9239
SUNDAY CONNSBROOK AVENUE CONGREGATIONAL 11am and 7pm KINGDOM HARVEST CHURCH, BELFAST Sunday Worship 11am. "Superchurch" for Children 6-12yrs @ the Inverary Community Centre kingdomharvest.co.uk MOUNTPOTTINGER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 11.30am Morning service. 6.30pm Evening service. MOUNT MERRION PARISH CHURCH KIC (Birth upwards). 10.30am. Youth Club. P4-P7. 6pm. Youth Club. Yr 8 upwards. 7pm. SKAINOS.ORG Worship 11am. Tea & Coffe @ 10.30am. Creche. STRAND ARTS CENTRE & NI STARS Singing & dancing 1.30-3.30. Saturday Minors Film Club 12 noon TULLYCARNET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Sunday Worship 10.45am & 6.30pm Junior Church 11.10am
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34 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// SPORT
STORY >>> LORD MAYOR BRIAN KINGSTON JOINS YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A LEARNING DISABILITY TO LAUNCH MENCAP’S OFFICIAL CHARITY PARTNERSHIP WITH THE 2017 DEEP RIVERROCK BELFAST CITY MARATHON WWW MENCAPBIGSTEPSFORWARD. ORG
BIG STEPS
“
The new Mencap Centre serves as a new model for early intervention services across the UK and Ireland, so Belfast is lucky to have this state-of-the art facility
“
Alderman Brian Kingston Lord Mayor of Belfast
LORD MAYOR TO RUN FULL BELFAST MARATHON IN AID OF MENCAP Alderman Brian Kingston, Lord Mayor of Belfast, was among the VIPs at the Mencap Centre today for the launch of the learning disability charity’s official partnership with the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon.
he Lord Mayor, a keen runner, has committed to completing the T 26.2-mile race on 1st May 2017 and
to fundraising for Mencap through sponsorship. Speaking at the launch, the Lord Mayor said: “It was great to see the Mencap Centre today and to celebrate Mencap’s involvement in the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon. The marathon is a highlight on Belfast’s calendar as it brings people to the city, promotes fitness and creates a unique spectacle and community spirit on our streets. “It also promotes fundraising for many worthy causes. I am running for Mencap this year because I find the charity’s work so inspiring. The new Mencap Centre serves as a new model for early intervention services across the UK and Ireland, so Belfast is lucky to have this state-of-the art facility. I encourage everyone to join me in running and fundraising in aid of Mencap to help this charity keep changing the lives of local people with a learning disability.” Margaret Kelly, Director of Mencap in Northern Ireland, added: “We
would like to thank Lord Mayor Brian Kingston for his commitment to running the marathon and raising money for Mencap. A 26.2-mile run is no easy feat, so we appreciate his support for not only participating on Marathon Day but for also logging the training hours. As a charity that supports people with a learning disability and their families, we believe anyone can take part in the marathon and its associated events, whether that’s running the Fun Run or simply donating to a friend’s fundraising page. Money raised from marathon support will benefit a variety of Mencap initiatives including a family support programme that will offer bespoke guidance to families with a child diagnosed with a learning disability. This innovative initiative is a first for our charity and it is a crucial step in reaching more families across Northern Ireland. I am sure the Lord Mayor’s involvement will inspire the people of Belfast to lend their support in this year’s marathon and we can’t thank him enough for running in aid of Mencap. We’re looking forward to cheering
STORY >>> THE CHAIRMAN OF THE LEISURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, COUNCILLOR TIM MORROW WAS DELIGHTED TO CONGRATULATE LOCAL ICE HOCKEY STAR, JAMIE SCOTT, ON BEING SELECTED TO PLAY FOR THE GREAT BRITAIN MEN’S UNIVERSITY ICE HOCKEY TEAM.
developmental delay. Mencap has been such an important part of my life since then and it still means so much to me. My team and I have been training for months for the upcoming relay and we are excited to run. We are asking everyone across Northern Ireland to ‘Step Up for Mencap’ and support the charity that has done so much for us.” To sign up for the relay, full marathon or any of the other events at the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon in aid of Mencap, email fundraising.ni@mencap.org. uk, call 02890 691 351 or visit mencapbigstepforward.org.
The Belfast Sports Awards recognise the city’s inspirational athletes and those who volunteer tirelessly behind the scenes to make sport happen in Belfast – from grassroots to the highest levels of achievement.
STORY >>> PLAYERS FROM THE IFA WOMEN’S FOOTBALL AND ULSTER RUGBY WOMEN’S TEAMS JOINED FORCES TODAY TO LAUNCH THE 10TH YEAR OF THE PRESTIGIOUS BELFAST SPORTS AWARDS.
AWA RDS
on the Lord Mayor and everyone on Marathon Day!” The Lord Mayor was just one of the VIPs at the charity’s official launch; Dame Mary Peters CH, DBE was also in attendance, as well as the five members of Mencap’s first learning disability relay team. In addition to the full race, the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon also includes a team relay, one of the most popular events. James Martin, a Mencap Young Ambassador and member of the learning disability team, said: “I have been involved with Mencap since I was 2 years old, when I attended Mencap’s nursery school for children with a learning disability, autism or
Girl Power Launches 10th Belfast Sports Awards
AWA RDS
WWW BELFASTCITY.GOV.UK/ SPORTSAWARDS
PICTURED Alderman Brian Kingston, Lord Mayor of Belfast, David Seaton, Chairman of the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon, Mencap Young Ambassador James Martin and Dame Mary Peters CH, DBE
revious winners include Dame Mary Peters, Carl Frampton, Dr. Michael McKillop, Wayne McCullough, David Humphries and George Best (posthumously). This year, P there will be 16 awards presented in total, across seven categories: Pathway to clubs, PICTURED Peita McAlister Ulster Rugby, Caoimhe Callaghan IFA Women’s football, Marissa Callaghan IFA Women’s football, Jennifer Boyd, Ulster Rugby Female Participation Officer, Louise McDaniel IFA Women’s football.
Council Congratulates Local Ice Hockey Star On GB University Selection Dundonald born and former Junior Belfast Giant, Jamie Scott was selected from almost 100 eligible and exceptionally talented players. He will play a pivotal role within the 22-man squad at the 28th Winter Universiade, a multi-sport winter event, in Kazakhastan later this month. More on this on the next page
elighted with Jamie’s representative success, Councillor Tim Morrow said: “It gives me great D pleasure to take this opportunity to congratulate Jamie on being selected to play for the Great
Coach of the year, Healthy lifestyle, Volunteer of the year, Team of the year, Sports personality of the year and Sporting Hall of Fame. All those shortlisted will be invited to attend a black tie ceremony at Belfast City Hall on Friday, 24 March. And new for this year, the event will be streamed live, with the Team of the Year category open to the public vote. For more information and an online nomination form, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ sportsawards The closing date for nominations is Monday, 13 February at 12 noon. Britain Men’s University Ice Hockey Team. This is a tremendous achievement and one in which he should be very proud of. “No matter what sport you play, to represent your country on the world stage is the ultimate goal and the pinnacle of any sporting career. For Jamie to achieve this so early in his career is admirable and I have no doubt that with the drive, focus and commitment he has already displayed, his sporting success will continue. “I would like to wish Jamie and his team every success at the 28th Winter Universiade in Kazakhastan and I hope they enjoy the experience and come back with gold!” The event, which has been described as ‘only second to the Olympic Games’, will see student athletes from 55 countries compete in ten events from 29th January to 8th February. Jamie and his team will compete against some of the best ice hockey teams in the world and will face extremely tough opposition in the first round against Canada, USA and Slovakia.
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MAIN DISHES (SPECIALS)
TANDOORI SPECIALS
KEBABS
Served with fresh salad and choice of mayo, chilli, garlic or house sauce. Gravy or curry sauce 50p extra pitta nan/chips Doner Kebab £4.00 £4.50 Chicken Tikka £4.50 £5.00 Chicken Pakora £4.50 £5.00 Vegetable Pakora £4.50 £5.00 Sheesh Kebab £4.50 £5.00 Mixed Kebab £5.00 £6.00 (Chicken Tikka & Kebab Meat)
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Doner Kebab Meat Mix Meat
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CHICKEN
Chicken Pakora £3.50 Chicken Nuggets (10) / +Chips £3.20/£4.60 Chicken Fillet Burger with chips £4.60 Chicken Goujons (6) / +Chips £3.50/£4.60 Chicken Dippers (8) / +Chips £3.00/£4.60 Chicken Wings (6) / +Chips £3.50/£4.60
BURGERS
Small Burger Plain Burger Cheese Burger Double Cheese Burger Hawaiian Burger Chicken Fillet Burger
Chips
£1.80 £2.50 £2.80 £3.50 £2.90 £3.50
Sml Box Large box Chips (Regular/Smal) £2/£1.50 £2.50 £2.50 £3.50 Gravy/curry/cheesy chips £2.50 £3.50 £4.50 Garlic/chilli/house/Mayo chips Chips, Fried Onions & Mushrooms £3.00 Chips, Peas, Onions, Curry or Gravy £3.50 Chip Buttie £1.80
38. Chicken Tikka £7.50 Pieces cooked in tandoori oven 39. Chicken Tikka Shaslik £7.50 Pieces cooked in tandoori oven with fresh tomato, pepper & onion
BIRYANI DISHES 40. Chicken Biryani 41. Lamb Biryani 42. Kebab (Turkish) Biryani 43. Vegetetable Biryani 44. King Prawn Biryani 45. House Special Special Biryani
£7.00 £8.00 £7.50 £6.50 £8.50 £8.50
SIDE DISHES 46. Aloo Gobi £3.20 Potatoes & cauliflower with light spice & herbs 47. Saag Aloo £3.20 Spinach with potatoes cooked in butter, onion & tomato 48. Bombay Aloo £3.20 Potato cooked with light Indian spices 49. Saag Bhaji £3.20 Spinach cooked with spices 50. Mushroom Bhaji £3.20 Sliced mushroom cooked with spices 51. Chana Bhaji £3.20 Chick peas cooked in light Indian spices 52. Chana Saag £3.20 Chick peas & spinach in light Indian spices 53. Tarka Dhal £3.20 Lentils cooked in light Indian spices 54. Saag Paneer £3.20 Spinach & cheese 55. Aloo Chana £3.20 Potatoes & chick peas in a spiced sauce
SUNDRIES RICE
56. Pilau/Boiled Rice
£2.00
57. Fried Rice
£2.50
58. Special Fried Rice
£2.80
59. Egg Fried Rice
£2.80
60. Mushroom Pilau Rice
£2.80
61. Chana Pilau Rice (+ chick peas)
£2.80
62. Keema Pilau Rice (+ mince)
£2.80
BREADS 63. Plain Naan
£2.00
64. Spicy Naan
£2.20
65. Garlic/Cheesy/Peshwari Naan
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66. Keema Naan
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FISH & CHIPS
Cod & Chips Cod Supper (Chips, Drink & Mushy Peas)
PIZZAS
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67. Chilli Coriander Naan
£2.50
68. Roti/Chapati
£1.50
69. Parata (thick fried bread)
£2.00
SIDE ORDER 70. Plain Poppadoms
£0.50
71. Spicy Poppadoms
£0.80
72. Spicy Onions
£2.00
73. Mango Chutney
£0.80
74. Ryta
£1.50
75. Mixed Pickle
£1.00
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MEAL FOR ONE £13.50 Any 1 starter Any 1 main dish & any 1 side dish 1 pilau rice, 1 plain naan 1 poppadom and 1 sauce
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36 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// SPORT
Picture Credit | Colin Lawson, Ice Hockey Media
FROM DUNDONALD I N T E R N AT I O N A L I C E - B O W L T O A L M A T Y, K A Z A K H S T A N Former Priory College pupil, Jamie Scott, follows his dream and gets selected to play for the Great Britain Men’s University Ice Hockey team in Kazakhstan.
F
ans and followers of the ice-hockey scene in the province had the opportunity to see university players from four US Colleges compete at the S.S.E. Arena, Belfast at the end of November, 2016. The NI Connections Friendship Four tournament was attended by over 22,000 people and it is credited with having been one of the province’s most televised events ever. It has since been announced that the tournament, which attracts four teams from Division 1 National Collegiate Athletic Association, will continue to be played in Belfast for the next two years. Closer to home, former Priory College pupil, 18 year old Jamie Scott from Dundonald has recently secured a place on the Great Britain Men’s University Ice hockey team. He will travel with the team to Almaty, Kazakhstan to participate in the 28th Winter Universiade, a multi-sport winter event which sees student athletes from 55 countries compete in ten events from 29th January to 8th February 2017. The 22 man squad have been selected from almost 100 eligible players across the globe and they face international opposition in the first round from Canada, USA and Slovakia. The event has been described as “only second to the Olympic Games.” On site there will be an Athletes’ Village which accommodates 5000 people, a 12000 seater Ice Palace and a 3000 seater Ice Arena.
Jamie, a first year student at Sheffield Hallam University, is looking forward to the event. “I am feeling confident, and I have been constantly training both on and off ice in the build up to the games.” He added, “It will be a great experience and I am proud to represent Great Britain and Northern Ireland.” It is believed that he is the first Northern Irish born player on the GB Men’s University team roster. He will add this to his growing list of visited ice rinks which include numerous rinks across Scotland and England, Canada and Czech Republic. Jamie, a defence player, is a product of the Junior Belfast Giants structure. He first played competitively at the age of 13, when the local club joined the Scottish league. He progressed through the age groups, playing for the Belfast side in the Scottish National League and also representing Scotland for two seasons at Under 17 level. His defence skills did not go unnoticed and he was approached by Solway Sharks senior team and offered a two-way contract to play for them in the NIHL1 league. Head coach, Martin Grubb, was impressed early on last season with Jamie’s performance on ice stating publically that he had a big future in the game. Unfortunately Jamie’s season came to an abrupt end early on in the season, after picking up an injury. After many months of recuperation, off-ice and on-ice training he managed to get back to full strength and he
returned to competitive playing. Earlier this year he was selected as a prospect with the Bradford Brewery Steeldogs, a professional team who play in the English Premier League. On his selection, head-coach Greg Wood commented on the Belfast youth’s ability. “He’s a perfect fit for us. He skates well, is mobile on the ice, so with a good year’s practice under his belt he can be pushing for a first team spot.” One of the highlights of his career to date was icing with the Belfast Giants when they faced Braehead Clan in home and away pre-season exhibition games In August 2016. Jamie has been busy with a number of the other Sheffield teams this season. To date he has iced with the Sheffield Scimitars Under 20 (A), Sheffield Senators (NIHL 2), Sutton Sting (NIHL 1) and Sheffield Steeldogs (EPL). He scored his first senior goal for the Sheffield Senators on the 16th October against Widnes Wild. Presently his combined stats for the present season show he has played 22 games with 2 goals, 2 assists and 12 penalty minutes. The success of Jamie and other local players is down to the junior development system within the sport in Northern Ireland and the unrelenting effort of local coaching staff and other club officials over the past number of years, under the auspices of head-coach and former Belfast Giants player, Rob Stewart.
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38 • FEATURES
#25 • FEBRUARY 2017
/// FOOTBALL BY ALAN HALL
TWO EARLY GOALS HELP GLENS SEE OFF ARDS
TWO early goals from the returning Stephen O’Flynn set Glentoran on their way to three vital points in Friday night’s tussle with Ards at what most of our readers would still call, ‘Clandeboye Park’.
ARDS 1 • GLENTORAN 3
T
he Glens faithful understandably gave a warm welcome to recently appointed Ards manager, Glentoran’s all time record appearance holder, Colin Nixon, who was no doubt anxious to put one over his old club, especially as a win in Bangor would see Ards leapfrog over the EastEnders in the league. Glentoran manager Gary Haveron made just the one change from the Crusaders game, with Stephen O’Flynn playing up alongside Curtis Allen, replacing the suspended Nacho Novo. There was little in it in the opening ten minutes, with
both sides fencing cautiously. However, on 11 minutes, Allen linked up well with O’Flynn, who twisted one and then the other, before drilling the ball low and hard into the bottom left hand corner of the net, to finally open his Glentoran account. Ards, nonetheless, could have scrubbed that one out, with Kyle Cherry afforded far too much platform space, but could only rifle his shot over the bar. O’Flynn, back from injury, looked like a man keen to make up for lost time, and he wasn’t far away, nodding a Ross Redman cross just over and then screwing another effort just
HONOURS EVEN AT THE WELDERS HARLAND and Wolff Welders, runners up to Ards last season, this time languish in eighth place and look set to miss the cut for the top six.
H&W WELDERS 1•ANNAGH UNITED 1 The Welders have just one game left before the split, and if they win at Lurgan Celtic, they go above the County Armagh side on goal difference, into seventh slot. And it is still possible for Gary Smyth’s side to make the top six, but they’d need to rattle a few goals past Celtic, and depend on Larne losing fairly heavily in their last two outings, at home to Loughgall and leaders Warrenpoint Town. At the moment, Larne have a goal difference advantage of +9, which would be reduced if they lost their last two matches, but it would also depend on the Welders scoring a few against Lurgan Celtic. Of course, the Welders could have helped their own case, had they not slipped up badly on Saturday against bottom club Annagh United at Tillysburn Park. Yet this is basically the same squad who were runners up last term. One big void this term has been the goals of Michael McLellan, who has returned to Linfield after netting just five in his loan spell. Previously, McLellan was good for around 50 a season. With Danny McKee off to Abbey Villa, Smyth gave a debut to new recruit Kyle Mackie, snapped up from Ballymena United. The Welders broke the stalemate thanks to a crisp strike from Davy Rainey just before half time. Just five minutes after the changearound, however, Annagh’s Aaron Duke found the Shipyardmen all at season. From there on in, neither side really looked like grabbing a winner – until two minutes from time when Rainey somehow smashed the ball wide, with the goal yawning invitingly in front of him. H&W Welders; Johnston, Spence, Armstrong (Bowers), McKeown, McMurray, McMillan, Deans, Dickson (K Devine), Mackie, Boylan, Rainey. Subs (unused) Shields, McKay. Players in; Gareth McKeown, Defender, ex Carrick Rangers; Kyle Mackie, Striker, Ballymena United. Players Out; Michael McLellan, Striker, Linfield (end of loan spell); Sammy Devine, Midfielder, Knockbreda; Danny McKee, Striker, Abbey Villa; Stephen McConnell, Goalkeeper, Donegal Celtic.
the wrong side of the post; Allen once more providing the assist. The big striker’s persistence, however, paid off on 19 minutes. Chris Lavery did the donkey work down the left, swinging the ball over for O’Flynn to pick his spot, with a blistering volley into the top left hand corner of the net. Glentoran were forced into a change six minutes later when James Ferrin injured himself on the synthetic surface, but it was case of like for like, with Calum Birney on the bench. The visitors went close again when Lavery crossed for Kane to head just over. However, on the half hour, Ards
showed that this one wasn’t yet over, with Chris Liggett lashing one just wide of the upright. Three minutes later, too, Nixon’s Men were back within touching distance when Kevin Bradley’s hopeful right wing cross eluded everyone, curling into the far corner of the net, with keeper Elliott Morris and the defenders obviously expecting one of the Ards front men to get a touch. It’s something that manager Haveron, a towering defender in his playing days, and sidekick Steven Mills, a former goalkeeper, wouldn’t have been happy about. It gave Ards the prod they needed, and they could have been back in tandem when Liggett was fouled just outside the box; ex Dundela man Carl McComb cracking the resultant free kick against the right hand post, with Morris beaten. McAllister also showed strength and speed down the left, releasing Tommins who was deprived by Morris. Ruddy
also wasn’t far away with a speculative shot from distance. Glentoran, therefore, couldn’t have been too unhappy at hearing that half time whistle. Thankfully that interval had doused some of the Ards fire and it was the Glens who had the first effort of note, with Kane and then Lavery hoisting efforts over the bar. On 78 minutes, Kane was replaced by Steven Gordon who was making his 100th appearance. Just when it looked as if it would finish 2-1, three minutes into stoppage time, Allen fed Aaron Harmon who made inroads down the right, and while his angled drive was pawed out by Hogg, Allen, showing his predatory instincts, was there to tap the loose ball into the empty net. Glentoran: Morris, Ferrin (Birney), Magee, Addis, Redman, Harmon, Kane (Gordon), Caldwell, Lavery, O’Flynn, Allen (Smith).
BANBRIDGE TOWN 1•DUNDELA 3
Dundela improved their chances of making the top six, with this victory away to leaders Banbridge Town at Crystal Park. As joint manager Stephen Gourley told the Loop, “We’re now unbeaten in the league since 12th November, that’s seven league games, although there are a few draws in there. We’re going in the right direction, but there are some big ones coming up, such as Newry at home and then away to Limavady!” Dundela opened the scoring eight minutes from the interval, when Jamie Jackson curled the ball past Tuda Murphy into the far corner of the net. Ban ‘bridged’ the gap on 53 minutes, with Ryan Moffett converting from the spot. The Duns, however, weren’t happy about the penalty decision, insisting that Lewis Roy had merely fallen on the ball. The East Belfast side,
though, soon regained the initiative through Matthew Ferguson, before Lewis Roy made doubly sure with a header just before the close. As manager Gourley concluded, “We were well worth the win. Banbridge came into it for a spell at one-each, but apart from that, we were good value for it!” Dundela; Sergeant – Collins, L Roy, Murdock, Whitford – Jackson (Morrison), Irwin (Lenaghan), Ferguson, Sofley – McClelland, Burrows (B Roy). Sub (unused) Gourley. Player In; Ben Murdock, Defender, Portadown. Players Out; Owen Thompson, Defender, Ballyclare Comrades; Mattie Kerr, Bangor; Collie Smith, Defender, Bangor; Colin Manley, Comber Rec; Ryan Leitch, Defender, 1st Bangor OB; David Ferguson, Goalkeeper, Ards Rangers.
BANGOR SWIFTS 1•SIROCCO WORKS 3
SIROCCO Works progressed safely through to the next round of the Intermediate Cup, after this 3-1 success over 1c side Bangor Swifts at Spafield Park, Holywood. Sirocco, meanwhile, are still setting the pace at the top of 1b, with 14 wins out of 15. At Holywood, there wasn’t much between the sides in a scoreless opening session; Sirocco coming closest when Lewis Irwin shuddered one off a post. Irwin tested the quality of the carpentry at the other end just after the turnaround, this time from a free kick, before Fergus Forsythe finally set Sirocco on their way. Works doubled their lead when Irwin managed to avoid the frame of the goal this time, scoring from the spot after he himself had triggered Swifts defensive alarm. Bangor scrambled one back, before Sirocco rubber stamped their place in the next round, with Irwin dinking the ball over the keeper. Sirocco Works; Dawson, Fleming, Dunn, Stewart, Hanna, Spiers (McLarnon), Mannus, Smyth, Ashe (Allen), Forsythe, Irwin. Sub (unused) Frame.
EAST BELFAST 8•ST PATRICK’S YM 1
East Belfast coasted into the next round of the Intermediate Cup after this romp against St Pat’s Young Men at East Park. Oddly enough, St Pat’s are the only team to beat East in 1a this season, but there was never going to be any doubt about this one, with East four-up at half time. St Pat’s pegged one back just after the interval, only for East to respond with a further four. East’s marksmen were Stephen Robb (4), William Gill (2), Breadon White and Kyle Dillon. East Belfast; Halliday – Graham, Davidson, Belshaw, Evans – Coulter, Gill, McNaul, White – Robb, Dillon. Subs. Wright, Magill, Garrett.
SHORTS 2•IVEAGH UNITED 3
In Division 1c, Shorts slumped to a shock 3-2 defeat by lowly Iveagh United at Aircraft Park. Andrew Dummigan and Alan Jamison (penalty) got the goals, against an Iveagh side who were reduced to ten men. Shorts stay in third slot, but can ill afford any more slip ups in their eight remaining games.
ORANGEFIELD OB • LARNE TECH OB 5
There wasn’t a lot between the sides in the opening quarter and almost half an hour had elapsed before the Larne boys had first strike; Scott Todd hammering home the penalty, after Lee Thompson had been brought down inside the box. On 32 minutes, it was two – Scott McNally flighting the ball over the top for Curtis Crawford to cross for Christopher Morton. The Larne boys grabbed a third six minutes later- Michael Wilson threading the ball through for Thompson to round the keeper. Three-nil at the break, with the Craigyhillians playing up the hill – and it could have been more, with Thompson and Crawford missing one on ones. Predictably, Orangefield pulled one back on the resumption, but back came the Tech with further goals from McNally and Thompson.
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