Ulster Tatler August 2021

NORTHERN IRELAND’S NO1 GLOSSY

UlsterTatler AUGUST 2021

£3.20

SUMMERTIME ’21 SPECIAL

ULSTER TATLER GOES GREEN

UT CHATS TO ARTIST COLIN DAVIDSON

£3.20 (€4.55)

FOCUS ON SOUTH BELFAST

02/08/2021 15:32

1 Glenford Road, Newtownards BT23 4AU T: 028 91822544

soundasleepbeds.com

AUGUSTCOVERSPREADS.indd 2

BSH Group is a Trademark Licensee of Siemens AG.

Leading in design.

Guiding the air.

The new Siemens glassdraftAir combines an outstanding design with high-quality materials and excellent extraction performance – perfect for your open plan kitchen. siemens-home.bsh-group.com/ie The future moving in.

Siemens Home Appliances

Keens UT DPS August'21.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2021 18:43 Page 2

#LOVEKEENS

AND RELAX NEW EXPERIENCES & COLLECTIONS WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED INSTORE

keensfurniture.com

A new standard in confidence

Paradigm is a company dedicated to providing an exceptional hair transplantation experience and outcome for clients throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Our company has been formed by leading experts in the world of hair transplantation and led

by Belfast Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr Brendan Fogarty FRCS (Plast).

Our experts know the current world is rapidly changing and that these changes are often profound. This does not mean the new is better than the old - but sometimes a shift occurs which incorporates the learning and wisdom of the past whilst simultaneously transforming current perspectives and practices.

Paradigm encapsulates this fusion.

For here at Paradigm, we offer an on-going relationship with

our patients. We will use our technological and medical expertise to combine with design excellence in order to manage our patients’ hair-loss for the long-term. Bespoke surgeries mean that hair-loss can be planned and even anticipated; this assures patients they are being looked after in a holistic and comprehensive way.

Paradigm puts the interests of the patient at the forefront of everything we do. That intention is born from a bedrock of extensive experience and technical skill which fuse with new technologies, design excellence and bespoke customer service.

Welcome to the new level.

Brendan Fogarty FRCS (Plast) +44 (0)28 9457 1242 info@paradigmclinic.co.uk

Consultation with Mr Brendan Fogarty FRCS (Plast) Consultant Plastic Surgeon

www.paradigmclinic.co.uk

All consultations and surgeries carried out by Mr Brendan Fogarty at our clinic in Belfast

PAGE4-5.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:44

A N E W S T A N DA R D I N C ON F I DE NC E

H A IR TR A NSPL A NTATION Market leading hair transplantation in the heart of Belfast.

PAGE4-5.indd 3

W W W.PAR ADIGMCLINIC.CO.UK

02/08/2021 11:44

PAGE49.indd 1

30/10/2020 14:13

THE ART OF FACIAL THREAD LIFTS WITH TWEAKMENT REQUESTS ON THE RISE THREAD LIFTS CAN HELP TO ENHANCE AND LIFT THE FACE. HERE’S HOW.

I

f overblown lips and chipmunk cheeks spring to mind when you think of facial rejuvenation, it’s time to look at Thread lifts. Cosmetech Clinics are focused on creating subtle results using Thread lifts making them the perfect choice for those looking for a natural look.

“This approach has become increasing popular within the practice“ says Mr Smith, Senior Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon at Cosmetech Clinics. Rather than plumping up the face with

treatment plan to rejuvenate the face.

Product selection is also key, he adds. In his clinics he favours a combination of Passive and Active Threads to create the best results.Threads can be used for a number of Cosmetic purposes from contouring the jawline to lifting the brows and defining the shape of the lips. It can also be used to tighten the skin under the eyes. One of Cosmetechs most innovative offerings is the Active Cog Lift which uses Active Threads to lift and reposition sagging skin to reshape the face.

Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon Mr Gerard Smith BDS, MBChB, FDSRCS(Eng), FRCS, FRCS (OMFS)

READER OFFER Quote Tatler 12 when booking to redeem your £50 voucher off your Thread lift.

Valid until 30 September 2021.

BEFORE MID FACE AND BROW THREAD

AFTER MID FACE AND BROW THREAD

dermal fillers the aim is to add definition with Threads and then to restore lost volume if required. Of course this requires an expert eye and advanced knowledge of the anatomy of the face, the Thread lifts are tailored to each individual to achieve the best results.

This is a great procedure for patients who don’t have the downtime for a surgical face-lift.

Mr Smith says that jawline contouring, tear trough rejuvenation and lip enhancements are the three types of most requested procedures by his patients, he emphasises that a good practitioner should always encourage an assessment of the whole face before preparing a

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road Holywood BT18 9HX

PAGE60-61.indd 3

Cosmetech are leaders in their field pioneering a new approach to facial rejuvenation at their Holywood, London and Sligo Clinics. Our Consultant Surgeons and Doctors also work within the NHS.

Other services available at Cosmetech include: Anti-wrinkle injections, Dermal Fillers, Thread-lifts, Aqualyx (Fat Dissolving injections), Skin Tag and Mole Removal, Viveve (incontinence treatment), Semipermanent Make-up.

Cosmetic Surgery is available at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast. For surgical enquiries, please contact 028 9066 7878 or visit www.kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com.

(Cosmetech is a partner company of Kingsbridge Private Hospital, Belfast.)

T: 028 9042 3200 E: frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk www.cosmetech.co.uk

25/06/2021 16:06

Contents

August 2021

44

18

122

FEATURES 14

COLUMNIST – KATHY CLUGSTON Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

16

INSIDE TRACK Our top picks of local interior designers

32

MY TOP 10 Also throughout the magazine

33

ULSTER TATLER AWARDS Meet the Sponsors

44

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Colin Davidson

67

SUMMERTIME 21' SPECIAL

71

ULSTER TATLER GOES GREEN

FOCUS ON: South Belfast

107

ARTS ROUND-UP

117

MAKE A SPLASH

122

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

128 ROYALLY REWARDED

132 GRADUATIONS

Queen's University 138

BACK TO SCHOOL

141

LOOKING BACK

47

STYLE WATCH

48

STYLE RULES Fashion inspiration for local trendsetters

50

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

52

BEAUTY PICKS Get Summer Ready

Full Colour

This month's cover features the stunning hotel and wedding venue, Rosspark Hotel. The Wedding Pavilion at The Rosspark Hotel seats up to 120 guests and they have just unveiled its luxurious new Garden Lounge, which saw the former conference room transformed into a welcoming space that is perfect for a champagne reception.

Rosspark Hotel 20 Doagh Rd, Kells, Ballymena BT42 3LZ T: 028 2589 1663 www.rosspark.com

UT STYLE

95

Keep In Touch With Ulster Tatler At:

CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY THE AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATIONS

follow us on twitter @ulstertatlermag or like us on facebook

Black

Reverse

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION UK - £30.00 RoI - £60.00 Overseas - £60.00 ULSTER TATLER ISSN 0049 5107 39 Boucher Rd, Belfast BT12 6UT Tel: (028) 9066 3311 www.ulstertatler.com e-mail: info@ulstertatler.com Ulster Tatler Groups is a name used by Ulster Journals Ltd. Company registered in Northern Ireland, registration number NI005037, registered office as listed.

10

PAGE10.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:55

Do you suffer from Do you suffer from loose dentures or loose dentures or missing teeth? missing teeth?

Mini Dental Implants Mini Implants are theDental solution! are the solution!

— Less Invasive — Less Invasive — Less Discomfort — Less Discomfort — Less Healing Time — Less Healing Time — Less Practice visits — Less Practice visits — Less Expensive — Less Expensive

You Youcan canafford afford to to smile smile again! again!

Mini dental implants are the affordable solution for Mini dental implants are the affordable solution for replacing teeth and stabilising loose or uncomfortable replacing teeth and stabilising loose or uncomfortable dentures. At half the cost and half the size of conventional dentures. At half the cost and half the size of conventional implants, they get you in and out quicker with less practice implants, they get you in and out quicker with less practice visits and less money out of your pocket. visits and less money out of your pocket.

——No Nointense intensesurgery surgery ——No Nostitching stitching

—— No No cutting cutting —— No No bone bone grafting grafting

65 Cregagh CregaghRoad, Road, 65 Belfast,BT6 BT68PX 8PX Belfast,

Dr. Peter Peter McCarron McCarron Dr.

minidentalimplantsbelfast.com minidentalimplantsbelfast.com

Schedule Contact us us today: today: 028 028 9568 95680446 0446 Scheduleaa FREE FREE consultation consultation — Contact PAGE11.indd 1

02/08/2021 11:46

Editor’s Letter

Weather Report For once the weather has not let us down.

Normally when we get to the July holidays it takes a nose dive – over the years I have spent countless weeks in Ireland (both north and south) enduring atrociously (and dependently) disappointing weather.

I remember hearing a statistic once that August is frequently the wettest month of the year in this part of the world. I can well believe it.

Thankfully, for the month of July anyway, this was not the case. In fact, there was a point in mid-July when a record temperature was

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness

set in the fantastically named townland of Ballywatticock. One wag even described the area, which is apparently just outside Newtownards, as Ulster’s Death Valley.

I visited Dunfanaghy and Downings during the July holidays and it was great to see so many people soaking up the sunshine. It’s a cliché but there really is nowhere better, providing we have the weather. When you consider what most people have had to endure, in terms of lockdown restrictions etc, it was fantastic to see everyone enjoying some normality.

Voting closes this month in the Ulster Tatler Awards. You have until Monday 16th August to get your vote in. It’s easy, just go to page 33 or ulstertatler.com.

EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry SALES & MARKETING MANAGER: Lorraine Gill Gerry Waddell COPY CONTROLLER: Gemma Johnston EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Michaela Colgan PRODUCTION MANAGER: Richard Sherry PHOTOGRAPHER: Ian Campbell PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Tatler Type

Only NI based social magazine audited by ABC.

QUOTE FOR THE MONTH

“Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment.”

Tap Te Ching, Lao Tzu, Chinese philosopher (?-533BC)

Room for more Start your fostering journey with us

Contact our friendly Fostering Team today: 028 9046 0500 fostercareni@actionforchildren.org.uk actionforchildren.org.uk/fostering @AFCNIFostercare Registered charity nos. 1097940/SC038092. Company no. 4764232. © Action for Children 2020 © Action for Children 2020. 1555.

12

PAGE12.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:47

Producing exceptional furniture for over 5o years

Lifetime Achievement Award - IKT Awards 2016/17 Best Kitchen Retailer – Irish Kitchen Awards 2018

Temple Cross, Lisburn, BT27 6YL 028 9263 9964 info@wrightsdesignhouse.com wrightsdesignhouse.com

WRIGHTS SINGLE 297x210.indd 2

WRIGHTS DESIGN HOUSE

30/03/2021 12:05

COLUMN COLUMN / LIFE & TIMES

Kathy Clugston Kathy Clugston is a freelance radio presenter. She chairs the long-running BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’ and presents the weekly entertainment show ‘The Ticket’ on BBC Radio Ulster.

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF

This month, Kathy Clugston discusses how advertising deodorant for women has changed throughout the years.

On a recent sunny day, as I sat glowing in my Mum’s back garden, complaining about the damp circles under my arms that appear no matter what product I use, she suddenly exclaimed: “Odorono!”

I stared at her blankly.

“ODOUR? OH NO!”, she said, waggling a finger. “You know, Odorono!”

I thought perhaps she’d popped a sherry in her tea, but it turns out she was having a flashback to the deodorant of her early youth, which, despite the name and probably the smell, reeked of glamour and sophistication. She could picture a jar with red writing on the lid, she said, and sure enough a quick internet search revealed both the jar and a range of astonishing advertisements pouring scorn on “excessive perspiration” and extolling that most underrated trait, “daintiness”.

A few more clicks revealed an absorbing history. In 1888, the company Mum was the first on the market with a deodorant cream, followed by Everdry, which launched an antiperspirant in 1903. Neither had much impact at the time. Then, in 1909, a Cincinnati surgeon, Abraham D. Murphey invented a liquid to stop his hands from sweating. Abraham’s daughter Edna had the bright idea of using it on underarms and a few years later launched the Odorono brand and, more importantly, a new kind of marketing strategy to promote it.

In the early 20th century, body odour wasn’t really a thing. Men were expected to sweat and ‘ladies’ did not discuss such matters in public; there was no social stigma around personal hygiene. Most women thought antiperspirants were unnecessary, messy and possibly harmful. Cumbersome dress shields were worn on special occasions (my Mum remembers wearing them at her older sister’s wedding in the ‘50s and both them and the synthetic dress being soaked

through.) Odorono, like its predecessors, was barely making a dent in the beauty market so Edna Murphey took on an advertising agent, who, after a few unsuccessful attempts to get the ball rolling, came up with an ingenious strategy: create a problem and then solve it.

In 1919 the first magazine advertisements appeared telling women that perspiration was an embarrassing affliction that would make other people gossip about them behind their back and, worst of all, put men off. Full page ads had breathless titles such as: ”The most humiliating moment of my life - when I overheard the cause of my unpopularity among men!”, and, “If you long for romance, don’t let your dress offend with ARMHOLE ODOR.” The strategy worked. Sales that year increased by 112 percent.

By the mid-1930s, companies realised that they were missing a trick by not selling to the other half of the population. Manly sweating didn’t stop women swooning though, so the companies had to find a different insecurity to play on. This was around the time of the Great Depression when jobs were precious so advertisers targeted male consumers by focusing on the shame of being considered unprofessional - or even passed over for promotion - due to their whiffy armpits.

Gender stereotyping has (slowly) changed since then, but the strategy is much the same. An industry grows by creating new ‘needs’, presenting us with an itch that only a certain product can scratch. Do we really need neck cream, gel for our ‘intimate areas’, makeup that lasts for 24 hours or bottled water with added electrolytes? Of course we don’t. As for antiperspirants, there’s an embarrassment of choice. We’ve gone way beyond the masculine and feminine; you can buy them in stick, rollerball, aerosol, spray, gel and cream form. They come unperfumed, alcohol-free, quick-drying, hydrating, invisible, for sensitive skin and even for

Illustration by Elle McGreevy

‘stress sweat’, which is, apparently, not the same thing as regular sweat. I have bought a raft of ‘natural’ deodorants, ones that don’t contain aluminum chloride, but I know that I have been persuaded into thinking of them as a healthier and ‘cleaner’ choice by playing on unproven fears about the chemicals in traditional antiperspirants being potentially harmful to health.

The founder of the cosmetics company Revlon is credited with saying: “In our factory, we make lipstick. In our advertising, we sell hope.” I think my new mantra may have to be another well known saying: caveat emptor. Let the buyer beware.

THIS MONTH’S OBSESSIONS: Halloumi – I find myself frying up a few slices of this salty, stretchy Cypriot cheese most days. It goes with anything, but is especially good in a fried egg sandwich or artfully popped on top of a plate of leftovers.

Swindled - a US podcast about white-collar criminals, con artists and corporate greed.

Our host is an anonymous “concerned citizen” who does an incredible amount of research and has a pleasingly soporific voice.

Water flosser - a handheld electronic device that squirts a powerful jet of water between your teeth to dislodge any unwelcome idlers. Messier than dental floss but so much more exciting.

14

PAGE14.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:48

Mad About Fabrics

PAGE41.indd 1

16/12/2020 11:42

InsideTrack This month Ulster Tatler gives you our top picks of local musicians who are the ones to watch in the music scene.

Photo credit: Conor Kerr.

JOSHUA BURNSIDE Alternative folk artist Joshua Burnside is something of an anomaly. With a brooding, powerful sound echoing artists of places afar and time long gone, his enthralling craft strives towards an aesthetic as much as visual as it is sonic.

Balanced with a diverse palette of sounds, Burnside deftly blends alt-folk and elements of the Irish folk song tradition with South American rhythms and Eastern European influences, whilst introducing synthetic and found-sounds, synths loops and crunching beats to create a stormy world that shifts and swirls perspective like a lingering lucid dream.

To purchase tickets to his upcoming tour, check out: www. linktr.ee/Joshua_Burnside

NEW PAGANS New Pagans are a rock band based in Belfast. They have released their critically acclaimed debut album The Seed, The Vessel, The Roots and All, via Big Scary Monsters. Throughout their debut album, New Pagans use their creative influence to challenge past and present issues surrounding relationships, equality, history, and gender, all wrapped up in their alternative, post-punk, indie rock style.

Kerrang have described them as “...a new force to be reckoned with...” and XS Noise described their album as “... a rich, gothic tapestry of intelligent, indie-rock energy.”

They headline The Limelight Belfast on Thursday 16th December 2021, tickets available now via www.newpagans.com

GEMMA BRADLEY Singer-songwriter, Gemma Bradley is making waves in the music scene in her own right, but also as the new presenter on BBC Radio 1’s Introducing show, which showcases the latest, upcoming acts in music. Gemma who hails from Draperstown, balances creating her own music with presenting the infamous Sunday night Radio 1 show, taking over from Huw Stephens at the start of the year. Her R&B/pop sound has helped her produce catchy, danceable tracks that are perfect for summer, including her single ‘Obsessed’. She started her presenting career on BBC Radio Ulster, presenting ‘Across the Line’ and believes that presenting has allowed her gain more confidence to perform.

Check out Gemma on BBC Radio 1 Introducing on Sundays at 11pm.

16

PAGE16.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:59

THE SCENE

The Princess unveils a plaque marking her visit and to commemorate the Centenary of Northern Ireland.

Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal.

ROYAL VISIT During a one-day visit to Northern Ireland, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal visited the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens to mark The Northern Ireland’s Centenary.

The Princess Royal chats with local school children from Glengormley Integrated Primary school.

The Princess Royal presented volunteer group Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens with their Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Equivalent to an MBE, this award is the highest form of civic recognition that can be granted to a voluntary group and acknowledges the outstanding work of the volunteers.

The Princess Royal presented volunteer group Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens with their Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

HRH The Princess Royal at Antrim Castle Gardens.

The Princess Royal with guests.

Continued on page 20

18

PAGE18.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:45

PAGE19.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:44

THE SCENE Continued from page 18

Dee Gourley and Alan Boardman from Antrim and Newtownabbey Council.

Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell and Sue McCorkell.

The Princess Royal at Antrim Castle Gardens.

Roisin Crawford, Laura Molyneaux, Pauline Greer and Jennifer Close.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Lady Mayoress and Mayor Pat and Cllr Billy Webb MBE.

.

Margaret Rea, Jackie Rea and Laura Graham.

Volunteers from the Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens.

HRH The Princess Royal with the Mayor.

Jacqui and Rev. Campbell Dixon MBE.

20

PAGE20.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:45

GOURMET GETAWAY

IT’S TIME TO GETAWAY AND INDULGE ON AWARD WINNING GOURMET CUISINE

Enjoy a luxurious two night stay in one of our nautical themed rooms including:

A six course tasting menu with optional wine pairing in Ireland's Hotel Restaurant of the Year, the Wolff Grill Sparkling Afternoon Tea for two on one day A welcome plate and miniature cocktails on arrival Unwind with a pre-dinner cocktail in Drawing Office Two A heritage tour of ‘the heart of the yard’ A Titanic sized breakfast each morning And complimentary car parking for 48 hours.

FROM

£

9 per room

Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply..

www.titanichotelbelfast.com | +44 (0)28 9508 2000

THE SCENE

Stephen Whalley and Dawn Whalley.

Birthday girl, Catherine McCartney.

HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR GARDEN PARTY Stephen and Dawn Whalley recently hosted a fabulous ‘Hollywood Glamour’ themed party for their close friend and client Catherine McCartney in their garden in East Belfast. The party was attended by a number of close friends and family to celebrate Catherine’s birthday!

William Logan and Caitlin MC Cartney.

zzzz

Fabio Batista and Luke Johnston.

. Catherine McCartney, Kerri McCartney, Sophie McCartney and Caitlin McCartney.

The group pictured together.

Elaine Mc Auley, Catherine McCartney, Joy Wright, Dawn Whalley and Gemma Watson.

22

PAGE22.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:49

Retail Showroom of the Year Finalist 2018 CELEBRATING OvER 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS

3 Mulnafye Road, Mountfield, Omagh BT79 0PG Tel: 028 8077 1226 www.mountfieldkitchens.co.uk

PAGE23.indd 1

02/08/2021 11:48

THE SCENE

.

Terry Bradley with Samantha Coleman from Action Mental Health.

Simon Cordner (Windmill Guitars), Chris Moffitt (Kithara Guitars) and artist Terry Bradley.

GETTING IN TUNE

Laura and Raymond Millar.

The ’Never give up’ guitar.

The ‘Never give up’ unique, custom built, hand painted guitar was on show at the Bangor gallery.

The collaboration between Irish artist Terry Bradley and Chris Moffitt of Kithara Guitars is to be auctioned in aid of Action Mental Health.

To raise money for this deserving charity, Terry and Chris’ guitar is to be raffled, with one lucky winner receiving the guitar as their prize. Entries to the competition are made by donating to the ‘Terry Bradley and Kithara Guitars’ JustGiving fundraiser.

. John Purdy and Leanne Reid.

.

Pamela Cash and Jacqui Pope.

John and Sandra Bigmore.

Jonny and Lynn Millar.

.

Simon Cordner, Ashley Bradley and Chris Moffitt.

Melanie Denver, David and Caitriona Bailie.

24

PAGE24.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:48

M AG I C A L

|

L U X U R I O U S

|

S C E N I C

IN THE HEART OF COUNTY ANTRIM • ONE WEDDING A DAY • BEAUTIFUL DEDICATED WEDDING ARRIVAL GARDEN LOUNGE • PURPOSE-BUILT WEDDING PAVILION FOR CEREMONIE • STUNNING FUNCTION SUITE • LUXURIOUS HONEYMOON SUITE

20 Doagh Road, Kells, Ballymena, Co Antrim BT42 3LZ T +44 028 2589 1663 F +44 028 25 89 1477 E info@rosspark.com W www.rosspark.com

PAGE25.indd 1

02/08/2021 11:46

THE SCENE

Ailleen Mc Gurran and Heather Murphy.

James Gormley, Patrick O’Reilly (sculptor) and Gerard Gormley (Director Gormleys Fine Art).

SET IN STONE The Holywood International Art and Sculpture Fair took place at the five-star Culloden Estate and Spa, Belfast, in conjunction with Gormley’s Fine Art. The outdoor sculpture event featured 125 sculptures situated both in the 12 acres of landscaped grounds and the interiors of the Culloden Estate and Spa. Sculptures included the work of Ian Pollock, Bob Quinn, Eamonn Ceannt, Orla de Brí, Sandra Bell and F.E McWilliam as well as a Teddy Bears Picnic featuring a collection of iconic bears created by top sculptor Patrick O’Reilly.

. Veronica Campbell and Terry Quinn.

Patrick O’Reilly.

zzzz Howard Hastings (Managing Director Culloden

hotel) and James McGinn (Operations Manager).

Nina Fitzpatrick, Fiona Fitzpatrick, Dominic Fitzpatrick (Managing Director Irish news) and Jim Fitzpatrick (Chairman).

26

PAGE26-27.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:48

THE SCENE

Orla de Brí (Artist) and Norma Smurfit.

lana Vinnik and James Gormley (Gormleys Fine Art).

. Jackie Lavin and Finn De Brí.

Jill and Sarah Mc Creedy.

Rosemary Martin and Paddy England.

Gerard Gormley (Director Gormleys Fine Art), Howard Hastings (Managing Director Culloden hotel) and Oliver Gormley (Director Gormleys Fine Art).

zzzzGormley and Patrick O’Reilly.

James

27

PAGE26-27.indd 3

02/08/2021 11:48

THE SCENE

The Hillsborough Fort Guard on parade.

Sergeant Major Paddy Shields falls in the new Fort Guard for inspection.

HILLSBOROUGH FORT GUARD INVESTITURE After 100 years the Hillsborough Fort Guard has been expanded by six members. The parade in period uniform were inspected by the Marquess of Downshire as Constable of the Fort and the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. The colourful public event with invited guests took place at the Fort in Hillsborough.

HFG Sergeant Major Paddy Shields, the Marquess of Downshire Nicholas Hill and HFG bugler Andrew Carlisle.

The Marquess of Downshire with Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.

The Marchioness of Downshire, Janey Hill.

Sergeant at arms Colin Ward and bugler Andrew Carlisle.

Fort Guard bugler Andrew Carlisle, Sergeant Major Paddy Shields and the Marquess of Downshire.

Hillsborough Fort Guard led by Irish Guards drum majors.

Janey and Nicholas Hill (9th Marquess of Downshire) with Alderman Stephen Martin and Mayoress Joanna Martin.

Continued on page 30

28

PAGE28.indd 2

02/08/2021 16:47

PAGE29.indd 1

02/08/2021 11:47

THE SCENE Continued from page 28

Felix Hartley-Russell, Beatrice Hill, Janey Hill, Isabella and Archie Robertson.

Robin Graham and Paddy Shields.

Lt. Col. Simon Nichols MBE and Kellie Nichols.

Alderman James Bard and Alderman Allan Ewart.

HFG bugler Andrew Carlisle and family Ruby and Stephanie.

.

HFG Sergeant Major Paddy Shields with family left-right Stephanie Wright, Kate Quill, Janet and Ken and children Amy, Joshua and Ruby and dog Lola.

Fort Guard Robert Finn and family Amy and Kathy Finn.

Fort Guard bugler Andrew Carlisle and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP.

Isabella Robertson, HFG Sergeant Major Paddy Shields and Marchioness of Downshire Janey Hill.

Col. Harvey and Elizabeth Bicker.

Marie Clarke with Nessa and Dermot O’Callaghan.

30

PAGE30NEW.indd 2

02/08/2021 15:17

heart of contemporary living

We’re DelighteD to be back

SUMMER SALE NOW ON

SUMMER SALE Extended Showroom BOUCHER CRESCENT, BELFAST A destination not to be missed!

(028) 9521 5899

creations-interiors.com

PAGE31.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:47

MY

6. Do you have any tips for staying positive?

Working at Action Cancer makes you very aware that there are a lot of people in NI going through a gruelling cancer diagnosis and journey, and who are possibly having a much, much worse day than me. All of us can get consumed by our own problems but without a doubt health is more important than anything.

Life is short and I fully believe in living each day to the full – ensuring my family are happy keeps me happy. Work can be stressful but it’s important to keep the balance right and focus and prioritise what is most important.

It’s easier said than done at times but helps keep things on track.

7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland?

If asked this question prior to Covid-19, I’d probably have answered ‘a night out in Belfast, followed by a hotel stay at The Merchant or Grand Central’ but now I’d say it’s our stunning scenery. There is nowhere better to be than the North Coast on a sunny day with lots of family and friends around and a prosecco in hand.

LUCY MCCUSKER

Action Cancer Corporate Fundraising Manager

1. What do you love most about your job?

The variety of people and organisations I get to work with and meet on a daily basis and the range of events I have created over the years.

From organising afternoon teas, to strongest woman Big Bus pulls, I have so much pride in the job I do. I can genuinely see and hear the positive impact Action Cancer services makes to people’s lives, everyday.

With a husband who runs his own business and three children, I have little “me time” so most hobbies revolve around kids activities and a variety of sports, from showjumping to swimming. I recently went back to hockey at Dromore Ladies which I absolutely love! My husband and I revamped an old Rice horsebox and turned it into a Coffee and Fizz Bar so that keeps me busy managing staff and stocking up on coffee and buns for the weekends!

2. What has been your career highlight to date?

There are many highlights and funny memories. The one that I will always remember with a giggle was persuading the late Gerry Anderson (BBC Radio Ulster Presenter and personality) in 2011 to take part in the NYC Marathon for Action Cancer, live on air. The minute he said ‘Yes’ the phones in the office started going crazy with his listener fans wanting to come too! Travelling to NY with the other runners, Gerry Anderson and Mickey Bradley from the Undertones, was hilarious.

The crack was ninety and Gerry ran about seven miles in total.

4. What is your daily routine?

This has changed with working from home throughout the pandemic but generally I’m up at 06:45, ready for the day ahead. The kids are dressed, fed and sorted for their school day, and then it’s off to the Action Cancer office in Belfast.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work?

5. Do you have a specific fitness regime?

Yes – my husband and I decided we were super lazy at getting out to gym classes so we got a Personal Trainer called Donna to come to us at home to do HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes. We have been doing this for 18 months and it’s tough but rewarding! She does not ever take ‘no’ for an answer, so no excuses allowed. It’s just what we need in our busy lives.

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by?

You never really learn anything from hearing yourself speak! I ask a lot of questions and love hearing about others people’s lives and families. Another favourite motto is: ‘You don’t get buried with your wallet in your back pocket!’ My pet hate is penny-pinchers.

9. Who has been your biggest influence?

My mum. She passed away very quickly from a late-diagnosed cancer. She was a fantastic role model: hardworking, forward-thinking, social and wise. I miss her so much and would have loved my children to have known her.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: Pretty Woman for old times sake and more recently Wonder Band/Musician: Oasis Book: Anything by Penny Vincenzi Restaurant: Wine & Brine Moira Holiday Destination: Skiing with family, or a city break Christmas shopping with the girls.

Drink: Prosecco Meal: Sunday Roast cooked by somebody other than me!

32

PAGE32.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:46

VO T ND CLO ING AY 16 SES TH

MO

AU

GU

ST

14th

TITLE SPONSOR

VOTING CLOSES 16th AUGUST TO VOTE GO TO WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM SPONSORS

#UTAWARDS21

EVENT PARTNERS TM

EVENTS FREAKISHLY GOOD EVENTS MANAGEMENT.

WRIGHTS DESIGN HOUSE

DESIGN HOUSE PAGE33-35.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:00

14th

THE CATEGORIES

01 FASHION BOUTIQUE

OF THE YEAR

Tell us the name of your top locally owned boutique. The category covers everything from clothes stores, to shoe shops and everything in between.

06

COFFEE HOUSE OF THE YEAR Tell us the best coffee shop you have been to lately? Simply let us know where you think deserves to be crowned coffee house of the year.

07RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

02

INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR In this category just let us know the name of your favourite Interior Designer. If appropriate we are particularly keen to hear on how the business has adapted to the current climate.

03 SPA OF THE YEAR

Tell us which spa you think deserves to win the title of Spa of the Year. Which spa has worked wonders for you?

Where have you had your best meal lately?

Just let us know the name of your favourite restaurant.

DESIGN

WRIGHTS HOUSE

DESIGN HOUSE

08

WRIGHTS

HAIRDRESSING SALON OF THE YEAR

In this category just let us know the name of your favourite hairdressing salon.

09 SPORTSPERSON

OF THE YEAR

04 HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Which hotel stands out to you as top class in everything from hospitality to food service?

Here’s your chance to recognise their effort.

05

BEAUTY SALON OF THE YEAR In this category you can vote for any salon in Ulster. Which beauty salon do you always leave feeling amazing.

PAGE33-35.indd 2

All we need is the name and sport of the person you are voting for.

10

CELEBRITY OF THE YEAR For this category just let us know the name and profession of the person you are voting for.

11 PERSONAL TRAINER

OF THE YEAR

In this category we are looking for the name of a personal trainer that you feel deserves to take home this award.

02/08/2021 12:00

VOTING CLOSING 16TH AUGUST 12 BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win. If appropriate we are particularly keen to hear on how the person has adapted to the current climate.

13 BUSINESS MAN OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win. If appropriate we are particularly keen to hear on how the person has adapted to the current climate.

14

BEST DRESSED ON THE NIGHT This accolade will be judged and awarded at the Ulster Tatler Awards ceremony. This category is not voted on by the public.

15

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD Previous recipients include the Northern Ireland football team and Ulster rugby legends Andrew Trimble and Tommy Bowe.

This award is not voted on by the public.

16 LIFETIME

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD This award is given to someone who has made significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland. Past winners include Pat Jennings, Ciaran Hinds, Marie Jones, Gerry Armstrong, Michael Longley, Barry McGuigan, Dame Mary Peters, Brian Friel, Sir James Galway, Gloria Hunniford, Phil Coulter and Terri Hooley. This category is not voted on by the public.

THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS IS MIDNIGHT ON MONDAY 16TH AUGUST 2021.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

How to vote?

It’s simple, just pick the category and the company/person you want to vote for at ulstertatler.com, following the guidelines below. Just remember that we are looking for local companies/people who have made a significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland and you can vote for as many categories as you want. A shortlist for each category will be published in the August edition of Ulster Tatler. An independent judging panel will then decide on the winner for each category. Please note that the decision of the judges is final and no correspondence will be entered into. If you are voting for someone in categories 1 to 11, all you need to do is let us know the name of the person or company you are voting for, along with their company contact details, where appropriate. For categories 12 and 13 in addition to their name, contact details and category, please forward a short statement (maximum 500 words) on why the entry should win. We are particulary keen to hear on how the person has adapted to the current climate. Categories 14-16 are not voted on by the public.

Whoever you vote for must be from Northern Ireland or based here. All short listed nominees must be prepared to take part in pre and post show event publicity. In order for your vote to count you must fill in all your contact details.

KEENS LAUNCH 2021 AWARDS Ulster Tatler editor Chris Sherry and Pamela Ballantine pictured with brother and sister Cathy Smyth and Johnny Smyth of Keens Furniture at their showroom on the Albertbridge Road in Belfast.

Keens are the 2021 Title Sponsors of the Ulster Tatler Awards.

Get voting and be in with a chance of winning a selection of great prizes.

WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM EVENT PARTNERS TM

EVENTS FREAKISHLY GOOD EVENTS MANAGEMENT.

TO VOTE GO TO WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM PAGE33-35.indd 3

02/08/2021 12:00

S OR S N PO S UR O ET E M

Title Sponsor

14th

KEENS - MAIN TITLE SPONSOR

Lifetime Achievement Award When you’re looking for your perfect sofa, eyecatching dining table or super comfy bed, a trip to the huge Keens Furniture showroom in Belfast is quite simply a must!

At Keens you’ll find a huge collection of sofas in all types, modern dining tables, great quality beds and mattresses, bedroom furniture, rugs, Pictures, mirrors and other stylish accessories for your home! We also keep in stock many great products for fast delivery to your home, and with new items of all sizes added to our collection each week, a visit to Keens is always worthwhile!

Beauty Salon of the year Beauty Culture is a multi-award winning beauty salon in the heart of east Belfast. Originally established in 2000 and then rebranded in new premises in 2014, the team has achieved Guinot Crown and Dermalogica Circle salon as well as a 5 star good salon guide status. We feel beauty therapy is one of the most rewarding careers to be in. We focus on inspiring therapists to find their passion in the beauty therapy world with ongoing support and training. We were delighted to receive the prestigious beauty salon of the year in 2019, and honoured to be sponsoring this category this year.

Interior Designer of the Year Häfele is Ireland’s leading premium home solutions specialist. Offering a complete source of furniture fittings, lighting, hardware, home appliances, architectural ironmongery, security products, sinks, taps, worktops and doors. Häfele are proud to have showrooms in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Wicklow.

Best Dressed on the night Holley Optometrists is an independent optical practice situated on Railway Road in Coleraine. Since its opening in 1985 the practice has provided comprehensive eye care to all patients and continues to deliver an exceptional experience to all customers. From advanced eye examinations using the latest optical technology to the latest styles in spectacles and contact lenses, the practice offers the highest quality care and product range to all who pass through its door.

Business Woman of the Year INSANITY is produced by Armagh based beauty distributor Bronze Direct. The luxury tanning range is made using only the finest organic ingredients and their kind-to-skin formulas are suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. These luxurious tans nourish & calm the skin and are infused with antioxidant-rich White Tea extract & soothing Aloe Vera to ensure a long-lasting, streak-free tan with a perfect fade. All Insanity products are free from alcohol, parabens & fragrances and are vegan-friendly and animal cruelty-free. Available online and all good salons. www.insanitytan.com

PAGE36-37.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:38

Title Sponsor

ME ET OU R

14th

SP ON SO RS

Special Merit Award Insight.Out Financial is an award-winning financial planning company based on the Holywood Road. From retirement planning, pension transfers, SSASs, investments and protections, Insight.Out has the in-depth expertise, the practical experience and the ability and insight to work with clients to create a complete financial plan that will help them to achieve their goals for their life and future.

Spa of the year Linwoods range of milled seeds and nuts provide an easy and convenient way to include a wide range of nutrients, minerals and vitamins into your daily diet. The seeds are uniquely cold milled to protect the seeds nutrients and aid digestion. Simply add two spoonfuls a day to your soups, smoothies and cereals to boost your diet.

Personal Trainer of the Year So Good Juice is a family-run healthy juice business that has grown from a passion for healthy living. The organic juice company, based in north-west Ireland identified a niche market to create a range of products with multiple health benefits. Their main products are, a beetroot shot, a ginger shot, a turmeric shot and a wheatgrass shot. They are also available to buy frozen. www.sogoodjuice.com

Sports Person of the Year The Lobster Pot was established in 1900s and reopened again in 2014. The current owners have created a quality, affordable and family friendly restaurant in the heart of the beautiful village of Strangford. The last six years have been filled with awards for their food and service. They have featured in a Disney series, hosted celebrities and catered for Game of Thrones Tours. Also check out their sister restaurant ’The Mariner’ in Newcastle county Down

Celebrity of the Year Providing a range of non-surgical procedures, including a wide range of aesthetics, dermal fillers, and specialist skin treatments, Vermilion Cosmetic Clinic, has just opened off Belfast’s Saintfield Road. Owner and Registered Nurse, Donnamarie McGrillen, first established Vermilion back in 2018, within a dental surgery on the Upper Lisburn Road, but as the business went from strength to strength, she decided to set up her own standalone clinic.

Restaurant of the year Wrights Design House has a 50 year tradition of high quality furniture manufacturing.

Wrights Design House believe it is important to always look forward; it is a proactive company, investing in highly skilled staff and the latest technology to ensure its kitchens and bespoke furniture are amongst the best in the industry.

WRIGHTS DESIGN HOUSE

DESIGN HOUSE

PAGE36-37.indd 3

WRIGHTS 02/08/2021 12:03

GRADUATIONS

Summer Graduations This month Ulster Tatler features a selection of graduation photographs taken by photographer Marie Allen.

Chloe Elliott daughter of Les and Gillian Elliott from Portadown graduated from University of Ulster with a First Class Honours Degree in Business Studies. Chloe has taken a post with Glanbia Cheese as a HR Officer.

Farrah Blacker daughter of Desmond and Tracy Blacker from Portadown graduated from University of Ulster with a First class Hons Degree in Human Resource Management, she also received the Capita Award for best final year student.

James Stafford son of Paul and Kathryn Stafford from Waringstown graduated from Queens University Belfast with a PhD in Psychology.

Leah Crozier daughter of Jonathan and Linda Crozier from Markethill graduated from Ulster University with First Class Honors BSc Degree in Business Studies with Marketing.

Niamh Farrell daugher of Deirdre and Martin Farrell from Portadown recently graduated from University college Dublin with a 2:1 in Masters of Education.

Rebecca Nesbitt daughter of Trevor and Jill Nesbitt from Hamilstonbawn graduated from Queens University Belfast with a BSc Hons degree in Business management.

She is currently employed by Blackfox.

38

PAGE38.indd 2

02/08/2021 11:57

The Word

GRADUATION PROMOTION

The Rath family from Armagh, who enjoyed Aisling’s graduation shoot with their pet dog Buster.

Photographer, Marie Allen is offering graduation promotions to allow families the opportunity to capture this special moment and cherish for years to come. Most gowns are included in the promotional shoot, which takes place in Marie’s fully air-conditioned studio, where you will receive refreshments on arrival. Family pets are also welcome to be part of the photoshoot and the promotion includes a full range of wall art and bespoke frames with University logos.

Contact Marie Allen at T: 028 38351055 Email marie@marieallen.co.uk or check out Facebook for more details.

Aisling Rath daughter of Paul and Anne Rath from Armagh graduated from Queens University Belfast with a 2:1 Hons Degree in Business Management.

Aisling brought her pet dog Buster to her shoot.

www.skeaeggs.com

39

PAGE39.indd 1

02/08/2021 11:56

THE SCENE

Naomi Baird, Declan Magee and Fiona McBride.

TV star Paul Moneypenny lends a hand opening Jacqueline Rooney’s new gallery.

ART & HOME GALLERY OPENING

Jacqueline Rooney and Paul Moneypenny.

Star of TV’s Design Masters Paul Moneypenny was on hand to officially open Jacqueline Rooney’s new bespoke art studio in Rostrevor.

.

Annette Bradley and Pauline Murray.

The new gallery officially opened in Rostrevor.

Aibhin Fitzpatrick and Marie Boyle.

Tim Baxter and Sara B. Continued on page 42

40

PAGE40.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:14

Get closer to what’s important. killeavycastle.com

Killeavy Castle Estate 12 Ballintemple Road, Killeavy, Newry, County Armagh, BT35 8LQ +44 (0) 28 3044 4888

THE SCENE Continued from page 40

Sheila Curry and Sarah B.

Scott Wilson and Tim Baxter.

zzzzzzzzzzzzz Jacinta Murphy and Michelle McTiernan.

Eugene, Nadine and Paul Loy.

Michael Stapleton and Sheila Murphy.

Dad and daughter, Desmond Wright and Carol Wilson.

Amy Cochrane and mum Donna.

. Darren and Jordan Taylor.

Karen and John O’Hagan.

42

PAGE42.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:12

For those who’ve spent a lifetime in pursuit of perfection Home | Showroom | Online 028 9068 1034 | 61 Boucher Cres , Belfast BT12 6HU | www.sliderobes.com

Colin Davidson pictured in his Crawfordsburn studio.

44

PAGE44-46.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:16

INTERVIEW

Jane Hardy is a feature writer who has interviewed a few of the big names from Arlene Foster to Mrs Thatcher.

A PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST Colin Davidson discusses Edna O’Brien’s beauty, why he sometimes paints nudes headless – and his new role as Chancellor of his alma mater, Ulster University, with Jane Hardy.

T

he new Chancellor of Ulster University, wearing work dungarees and some seriously snazzy trainers (red, white and yellow, perfect for a creative), ushers us into his Crawfordsburn home. Acclaimed artist Colin Davidson, an energetic 52, who recently took over the role as alma mater from Jimmy Nesbitt, takes us into his studio. En route we pass a print of his 2016 portrait of the Queen, commissioned by Co-operation Ireland.

The space is peaceful, situated in the coach house, and we’re faced with a characteristic large, noble portrait of Tim Wheeler of Ash. Davidson says he likes to work on eight portraits at the same time, moving from one commission to another to gain new angles. “It’s my most recent work and is finished,” says the artist, outlining the best view for our photographer.

Davidson says with uncut enthusiasm that he is enjoying his new role. “I am thrilled, it’s an honour and a privilege. I’ve a real affection for Ulster University, where I studied art under tutors such as Neil Shawcross, John McWilliams and Ralph Dobson.” The artist adds that he has already been installed in the role but is waiting for the ceremonial kit. “I’m getting a new gown and mortar board hat.”

The writer Edna O Brien is Davidson’s most recent commission. He knows her son, novelist Carlo Gebler, and the idea germinated over time. “I met Carlo when he was doing a Radio 4 interview with me. We talked about his mum’s work and I spent a while chatting to her before the plan was worked out. She agreed and I did the painting in September last year.”

Needless to say, the resulting portrait made quite a splash. It was unveiled at Claridges and is now on display at the Irish Embassy

in London. The novelist spoke at the event, saying: “I felt I was being stripped but stripped in a good way that would be necessary to what would be eventually on the painting.”

Davidson adds that he felt it was a real privilege to paint the woman he describes as a “true creative”. “Edna O’Brien’s life is about the creative process and I felt I needed to reflect that in the painting.”

The artist outlines his job as our premier portrait artist as a psychological investigation of his subjects, carried out with forensic

attention to detail. “It’s interesting, peeling back the facade. Vulnerability is definitely involved and maybe we become more vulnerable as we get older. Inside the portrait of the woman I have come to know, who is now 90, there’s a young woman, and a very beautiful one.” A country girl, you could say.

But can physical attraction present its own problems in portraiture? Davidson says that this is now how he regards his sitters. “I don’t see people in that way, as good looking or not, as old or young.”

Irish novelist Edna O’Brien pictured with her portrait.

45

PAGE44-46.indd 3

02/08/2021 12:17

INTERVIEW

Colin Davidson pictured alongside Queen Elizabeth II during a reception that was held for the unveilling of her portrait.

However, we both remark on Queen Elizabeth’s beautiful, penetrating blue eyes.

Davidson follows protocol in not revealing any private conversation that unfurled during the two-hour sitting he was granted in Buckingham Palace. He does say that it was enjoyable. “I had met the Queen before a few times, but had never talked to her for a long period of time. Beyond the respect she commands, there is a moment you get a sense of the human being, as in any encounter between two people.”

Yet Davidson, who has now chalked up several covers of Time magazine with his portraits of Angela Merkel et al, started out in graphic design. He worked for a noted ad agency and remembers designing a series of theatre bills for The Lyric Theatre. “I had my design practice from ’93 to ’99. It’s a long time ago but I remember doing one for Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband.”

While working as a commercial artist, Colin Davidson continued painting, including landscapes and naturally, portraiture. He chanced upon his trademark scaled-up portraiture when he worked on a portrait of the composer Duke Special, whose given name is Peter Wilson. “It’s about ten years ago now.

I produced a larger bust because I wanted to suggest this big personality or facade Peter had built, with a look which is the antithesis of a slightly shy person. It felt right.”

“When you’re painting the face this size, there’s an element of landscape.” A modest guy, Duke Special stares down at you with mascare’d eyes, sporting his trademark long dreadlocks (despatched during lockdown). The painting graced the walls of The Lyric Theatre where Duke Special was artist in residence, but now resides in a private collection. Size matters in art, the Egyptians understood this, so too have modern political regimes who have literally wanted to big up their leaders.

What Davidson, who has said he cringes at the term “portrait painter”, has achieved is a kind of nobility and grandeur, which embrace

his subjects from Kenneth Branagh to Liam Neeson, Marie Jones to Seamus Heaney.

Later, Colin Davidson quotes Picasso who once remarked that all works of art are in some sense self-portraits. “I think that’s true.”

Davidson’s self-portraits at different stages in his life often show a reflective expression, undercut with humour, that makes one think of Rembrandt’s similar exercises in painterly self-analysis.

We go on to discuss Davidson’s series of nudes. There is a lovely naked female, headless and painted using an earthy, sensual palette, in the corner of his studio. He recalls life classes when he was an art student. “It’s something I have done ever since I drew and painted people who were wearing clothes in art classes at Methody, and I’ve been interested in the human form ever since.”

Davidson’s 2016 series of female nudes is contemporary. He has painted women hunched over, looking as if they are gripped by angst, occasionally ecstatic, reflecting the gamut of emotions attached to the human condition rather than posing in the serene yet confident manner of Manet’s Olympia.

Colin Davidson thoughtfully puts me right, indicating that this is my interpretation of his work. ”That’s your reading and the spectator completes the painting in a way,” he observes, adding: “It’s like my portraits. You can read in happiness, angst, dissatisfaction and contentment. If one painting is seen by a hundred people, they will all engage with it differently. That’s the power of art, that it can pose these questions. The human form, even without a face, gives away so much. All I’m doing in my portraits is putting a bit of paint on some cloth.” Naturally, the result is much richer than this modest account of Colin Davidson’s profession. As the late critic Kenneth Clark put it, the process of painting nudes takes “the most sensual and immediately interesting object, the human body, and puts it out of reach of time and desire”.

A few years ago Davidson tackled a very different group of people, creating an important exhibition that travelled to the United States and Europe. Colin Davidson has become an informal advocate for the 18 victims and survivors of the Troubles who were his subject for the haunting exhibition Silent Testimony which is returning to The Ulster Museum in September, six years after its first showing in that building. We were talking just after the British government was suggesting a statute of limitation should apply to British soldiers involved in some of the killings during this period. Davidson, whose family was fortunate to escape the conflict unscathed, sounds angry on behalf of the people who agreed to be sit for him. “ I think it’s obscene, to be honest.” He has noted before “While the Good Friday agreement achieved peace, in a way these people paid the price for that.”

The stories behind the paintings are harrowing, with tales of Johnnie Proctor’s father, also named John, who was shot dead in the hospital car park at Magherafelt en route to visit his new-born son. And Virtue Dixon’s daughter Ruth, killed by a bomb which caused the pub roof to collapse where she was celebrating her birthday. But there is human endurance too and many visitors who saw the exhibition last time talked about their sadness, but also the fact they remembered the sitters’ eyes.

Away from painting ¬– and Colin Davidson works office hours in his north-lit studio, blocking off time for media, one or two days a week – Mr Davidson hangs out with his wife and daughters aged 24 and 21 who live at home. “You can probably hear them outside now, we all get along very well,” he says with a smile, not naming them as they have their own lives to lead.

As we say goodbye, you can’t avoid noticing three or four sleek cars outside the property, one a Porsche. The artist obviously likes slow painting and fast cars.

46

PAGE44-46.indd 4

02/08/2021 12:17

ULSTER TATLER

STYLE

Style Watch EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED OUT AND ABOUT.

Artist, Patrick O’Reilly pictured at the Art & Soul International Art & Sculpture Fair at the Culloden Estate.

47

PAGE47.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:16

U T

S T Y L E

STYLE RULES Fa s h i o n Mu s t H a v e - J u m psu i ts ( O M N E S , An g e l S l e e v e Tea J u m psu i t i n B l u e Da i sy, £ 7 5 ) .

Fa v e h a i rca re pro du ct Dr Pa w Pa w 7 - i n - 1 spra y, £12.99.

G o - t o Ma keu p Pro du ct B e l l a m i a n ta B ro n z i n g Po w d e r, £19.99.

Caroline MacMahon

Founder of Be Almaí

How would you describe your style?

As a hairdresser my daily style is definitely all about wearing anything black. For an occasion I would say I am the queen of jumpsuits, I absolutely love them and wouldn’t want to count how many I actually own.

What are your wardrobe staples that you can’t live without?

I would have to say that currently I absolutely love my Spanx faux leather leggings. They are amazing quality and definitely worth spending that little bit extra on.

Do you have a favourite designer or high street brand?

My absolute go to is ASOS... I won’t lie I am generally last minute when it comes to organising outfits for occasions or nights out, but I definitely have to say ASOS never disappoints. Of course with their next day delivery it always saves me just in the nick of time.

Do you have any style icons?

I definitely think Instagram is extremely influential when it comes to the latest styles and top trends. When it comes to clothing I absolutely love following Carol Byrne and Rosie Connolly, both very

S k i n ca re H u s t H a v e De r m a l o g i c a sk i n c a re ( S pe c i a l C l ea n si n g Ge l , £ 3 5 ) .

different styles but equally as amazing.

Carol showcases night out showstoppers, whilst Rosie can turn a casual look tracksuit into the latest must have trend.

Do you have a skincare regime?

Yes currently I can actually say I do; however when life gets busy it is very easy to let a good routine slip. I have recently purchased a full Dermalogica skin care set; I do absolutely love their products. I have also been treating myself to a facial once a month, which I think makes a huge difference to maintaining good/clear skin, especially with my job and wearing makeup every day.

What is your signature scent?

I have a few favourites, but I don’t think I could go past my wedding day perfume Chanel, Chance.

Are there any haircare products you recommend?

Yes with being a hairdresser I have definitely been able to trial and test a lot of hair products over the years. With having blonde hair myself I really understand the importance of using the current products for your hair needs. My current favourites are; Brazilian bond builder shampoo, reconstructor treatment and conditioner,

the Dr Paw Paw 7-In-1 spray, along with the Semi di Lino Cristalli liquid.

My top 3 tips to maintaining healthy coloured hair: 1. Reduce heat styling to once a week 2. Use salon professional hair products 3. Don’t over colour- try stretching out your hair appointments an extra few weeks.

What is your go-to makeup product?

My go to makeup product at the minute is the Bellamianta Bronzing powder, I use it everyday and absolutely love it.

How do you keep fit and healthy, are there any exercises or health foods your swear by?

For me I always stuck by eating healthy Monday-Friday and enjoying my weekends off to eat what I like. I think everything is ok in moderation and having a good balance is key. I love Greek yogurts, fresh fruit and granola. I also drink hot lemon water in the morning and before bed. With being a hairdresser I definitely find it helps keeping me active with being on my feet all day. I think we all have a love/hate relationship when it comes to exercise, it is sometimes hard finding a good balance, but you never regret it afterwards and always feel amazing.

48

PAGE48-49.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:15

FASHION

JUMP ON IT L ille An ge l S le e ve Ju mp su it, OM N E S, £75.

E ls ie jump s uit , I sab e l M anns, £399.

Washed linen c o ral jumpsuit, Oli ve r Bona s, £ 8 5 .

M&S Co l l e c ti o n j u m psu i t, Ma r ks & S pen cer, £49. 50.

Ja sm i n e j u m psu i t in black, KNITTS, £88. 20.

49

PAGE48-49.indd 3

02/08/2021 12:16

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Nuala Meenehan works in the media and is a leading model.

ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS

I’ve been lucky to work with some incredible skincare and beauty brands. I take my skincare seriously, but like many women I’d completely forgotten how to wear makeup after lockdown. I was using products from the depths of my makeup bag, applying my foundation with a trowel and seem to have developed colour blindness as to what colour now suited me, or my complexion. Just in the nick of time and saving me from looking like Bobo the Clown, award-winning makeup artist, Oonagh Boman, and world leading makeup brand Senna Cosmetics invited me to become an official brand ambassador. Senna Cosmetics is famous for their flaw-fixing foundations, high payoff eye colours, and beauty biz firsts. A favourite among professional makeup artists, A-list celebs, and IG’rs of every age, stage, and viewpoint, this incredible range brings out the beautiful in every face! I’m still pinching myself! After a morning makeover with Oonagh, armed with some simple new makeup techniques and a handful of fab new Senna Cosmetics products, I left looking 10 years younger with my skin illuminating and flawless! All my friends have commented on how great my skin looks; some have even asked if I’ve had ‘work’ done! But this is genuinely a case of teaching this old dog some great new tricks and using an amazing beauty brand. If you’d like a helping hand with some makeup application tips and want to look absolutely flawless head to: www.sennamakeup.com or ask advice from Oonagh.boman@bt.internet.com

THE ODD COUPLE

ALL HAIL THE BWS! IT girl fashion trends are not usually wearable in the real world, but not this summer! The wardrobe piece the fashion world is fixated on right now is the sublimely simple white shirt, but take note this season it’s go big or go home! The hottest fashion item to wear right now is the BWS (big white shirt of course). Supermodel Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have been snapped wearing this season’s essential piece dressed up and dressed down. Even better news is you don’t need a designer label to rock this look. My favourite BWS come from charity shops – go for a man’s oversize shirt, they’re usually far better quality, wear over a favourite tee with a pair of shorts or chino’s, heels, sandals or trainers and voila, you’re hot to trot!

A STICKY END FOR DUCT TAPE Great news! Here’s another exciting use for duct tape.

The wonder tool for leaking pipes makes swimwear too! Bikinis made entirely from fashioned strips of black duct tape have been modelled at Miami Swim Week.

Its’ a knockout look and you’re sure to be popular with people who need to lag a u bend!

When I read about the Queen of Cool, model and fashion ICON Kate Moss and Kim Kardashian being new besties I have to admit I raised an eyebrow! KK and Mossy recently revealed they are besties with Kate being revealed as the new face of Kim’s shapewear brand SKIMS. This seemingly unlikely friendship made me think about some other unusual celebrity pairings. Remember Dot Cotton and Lady Gaga. Chain smoking EastEnder’s legend Dot aka actress June Brown met Lady Gaga on Graham Norton’s chat show in 2013 and the two just hit it off immediately.

Steven Seagal and Vladimir Putin, an unnervingly weird friendship arose between the Hollywood hero and the President of Russia. A long-time admirer of Putin, Steven (who has been a Russian citizen since 2016) recently joined the pro-Kremlin party just to get closer. The mind boggles!

50

PAGE50.indd 6

02/08/2021 12:03

UK Sizes 4-24 Cathy Balsdon

cathyb@franklyman.com

(+353) 087 392 6539 franklyman.com

PAGE51.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:04

BEAUTY

GLOW UP 2

1

3. Thalgo – Age Defence Sun Lotion, £26.50.

1. Huda Beauty – N .Y. M . P. H . G L A Z E S k i n G l o w i n g Pe r f e c t o r, £ 4 3 .

3

4. Bellamianta –Maura Higgins Summer Glow B r o n z e r, £24.99.

2. KASH Beauty – Sculpt Collection h i g h l i g h t e r, b l u s h e r a n d b r o n z e r s t i c k s , £ 4 9 . 4 6 a s a s e t o f t h r e e , o r £ 1 7 . 0 6 i n d i v i d u a l l y.

5

5. Ayu –lip gloss in Blushed B e r r y, £10.

4

52

PAGE52.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:05

KULAR FASHION EST. 1977

19-21 Ferryquay St, Derry/Londonderry, BT48 6JB www.kularfashion.com

PAGE53.indd 5

02/08/2021 12:06

The Word

SUN AWARENESS 2021 WITH BELFAST SKIN CLINIC Sun Awareness is the British Association of Dermatologists’ annual campaign to raise awareness of skin cancer. At Belfast Skin Clinic we believe in prevention and early detection to reduce your chances of getting skin cancer. Here are some skin safety tips.

• • •

•

Tanned skin is damaged skin Never let your skin burn, whatever your skin type.

Every time you use a sunbed you damage your skin. This damage ages the skin causing wrinkles to appear and can lead to skin cancer. Using a sunbed once a month or more can increase the risk of skin cancer by more than half.

Children burn more easily. Sunburn in childhood can lead to skin cancer later in life. Protect them with a hat, t-shirt and factor 50+ sunscreen.

View Tanorama on the BBC iPlayer now. www.sunsmart.org.uk www.which.co.uk july 21 ’sunscreens you can rely on’ For more information or to book an appointment visit www.belfastskinclinic.com or email: info@belfastskinclinic.com

Medical Director, Dr Pamela McHenry

MARGARET FORBES W: www.margaretforbesjewellery.com

Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3690 Lisburn Tel: 028 9267 9505

54

PAGE54.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:11

The Word

AN ACTION-PACKED DAY OUT FOR THE FAMILY Ulster Tatler speaks to Rhonda Geary, Operations Director for the Balmoral Show.

Q&A

When will the Balmoral Show be taking place this year?

This year the Balmoral Show will take place from Wednesday 22nd to Saturday 25th Setmeber 2021 at Balmoral Park, Lisburn.

With a year away due to Covid, what can visitors expect for its return this year?

Visitors can look forward to the return of many family favourites; the Children’s Farm, Downtown Show Stage, Healthy Horticulture Area, many mobile family attractions as well as the NI Food Pavilion. As always the Show promises to be a fun-filled day, with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, fantastic food or the chance to see exceptional livestock displays, it’s all in the Show.

How many days will it be running for this year?

As Northern Ireland’s largest agri-food event, the Show runs across four days (Wednesday – Sunday) and promises to be four action-packed days for all the family.

Where can people buy tickets for the event?

This year, all tickets for the Show must be purchased online in advance and will be day specific tickets only. Tickets will be available from Tuesday 27 July online at www.balmoralshow.co.uk.

What is your personal highlight at the show, is there something you are particularly looking forward to?

There is too much to chose from, but our superb show jumping classes have always been a firm favourite and this year is extra special as we have an enhaced National Show Jumping Schedule. Our Best Dressed competition also returns on Saturday and this year we are excited to welcome Cool FM’s Melissa Riddell as our guest judge!

For more information visit www.balmoralshow.co.uk

55

PAGE55.indd 3

02/08/2021 12:12

COVID – LONG OR SHORT? Long COVID has been causing its sufferers ill effects. Recent evidence has shown that after the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, a range of persistent symptoms can remain for a lengthy period. Symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, hot flushes, IBS, tinnitus and other inflammatory responses such as skin rashes, fibromyalgia, and headaches.

Our bodies response during and after a viral attack differ from person to person as we all have different states of wellbeing.

When exposed to a virus our bodies initial state of health determines the response to the virus. Factors such as pre existing conditions, nutrition, gut health (our micro biome) & immune system, sleep cycle, stress and inflammation all play a pivotal role in response and recovery.

Many doctors and practitioners are

ROSSMORE HEALTH PAGE56.indd 2

theorising that long COVID may have a strong link to mast cell activation syndrome.

Mast cells are part of the immune and neuroimmune system, when inappropriately activated by an allergen they excessively release mediators such as cytokines, histamine and heparin, causing strong allergen type symptoms.

So it begs to differ that supporting and nurturing yourself and your immune system while trying to ensure you do not suffer from an inefficient immune response, inflammation or gut dysbiosis is a good way to assist yourself in prevention and recovery.

As diet alone can be very difficult to achieve this, Dr. Wolz have developed products based on proven results which supplies your body and cells with highly bioavailable substances to assist you towards better health.

Dr. Wolz Zell Oxygen Immunkomplex suitable for individuals with; immune weakness and or chronic disorders, after surgery, illness, oxidative stress, reoccurring infections, after radio and chemotherapy when the immune system is in need of a good boost.

Dr. Wolz Immun Select capsules, suitable for individuals with who are in need of a natural anti-histamine and immune boost. With Vitamin C, Zinc, Beta-glucans, Quercetin and beneficial bacteria.

Dr. Wolz Vitalkomplex containing a high amount of protective phytochemicals.

Suitable for individuals whose diets lack in adequate quantities of fruits and vegetables, during illness, for mentally demanding jobs and to greatly protect the body and boost nutrition levels.

Available at

www.rossmorehealth.com Also from Health Stores, Medicare and selected Pharmacies

02/08/2021 12:12

BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY VIRTUAL IMPLANT CONSULT* TODAY

SAY GOODBYE DENTURES WITH CRANMORE DENTAL IMPLANTS

When you decide it’s time to replace a missing tooth or teeth, we are here for you. We accept nothing less than the best for our patients.

Talk your decision through with us, book a complimentary virtual dental implant consultation today on 028 9038 1822.

15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE 028 9038 1822 www.cranmoredental.com *Non clinical consultation with Patient Care Coordinator.

ULSTER TATLER GIFT SUBSCRIPTION

SPECIAL OFFER A DOZEN WAYS TO KEEP IN TOUCH

JUST £20 FOR 12 ISSUES FRE

NORTHERN

UlsterTatler IRELAND’S

INS E A BRO NITY N WORZING FOCUS N £22 TH SOUTH OBEL FAST .99 ULSTER TAT

NO1 GLOSS Y

AUGUST 2021

SUMMERTIME ’21 SPECIAL UT CHATS TO ARTIST COLIN DAVIDSON

£3.20 ((€4.5 €4.55 4.55) 5))

LE GOES GREEN R

£3.20

TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS TERRIFIC OFFER

SIMPLY CALL 028 9066 3311

OR SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM The minimum subscription term is 12 months. The normal cost of 12 issues is £38.40 based on the cover price of £3.20. Offers applies to UK residents only.

PAGE58.indd 2

02/08/2021 16:57

A harmless mole, or potential skin cancer?

At Belfast Skin Clinic we offer general skin checks, mole scanning and skin cancer screening services.

DERMATOLOGY AESTHETICS VASCULAR

PLASTIC SURGERY LASER RHEUMATOLOGY

For more information or to book a consultation call Belfast Skin Clinic on 028 9066 7077 or email info@belfastskinclinic.com

BELFAST SKIN CLINIC www.belfastskinclinic.com

TRIEDCOLUMN & TESTED

“TREATMENT AT APEX HEADACHE CLINIC IS THE ONLY THING THAT HAS GIVEN ME RELIEF FROM MY 25 YEARS OF MIGRAINES”

44-year-old book-keeper Paula Fearon from Newry, suffered with migraines for over 25 years which affected every aspect of her daily life. After trying everything, with no relief she visited Apex Headache Clinic in the hope of getting to the source of the problem. Here, she shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment for migraines and headaches, called The Nelson Headache Approach™, treated her migraines, meaning that she could finally start to enjoy life again.

Paula, when did your migraines begin?

My migraines began in my late teens. I was in a car accident when I was around 16 years old and then it wasn’t long after that when I started getting headaches around 3 times a week. I went to see different doctors about my headaches, they diagnosed me with migraines and prescribed me with preventative medication. I have had migraines since then and over time, especially in the last few years they began to get worse. I was having migraines around 5 times a week. The pain relief that the doctor had prescribed began to stop working and I had to start increasing the dose to get any relief. I didn’t want to be constantly taking medication and that was when I went to see a neurologist privately to try get some help with my migraines.

treatment. I have tried everything from physio elsewhere, to acupuncture and yoga, and treatment at Apex Headache Clinic is the only thing that has given me relief from my 25 years of migraines.

To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

How did the pain affect your life?

I was constantly thinking about medication and worried if I didn’t have tablets with me in case I would take a migraine when I was out. I thought people were fed up listening to me talking about headaches and I just felt sick all the time.

What led you to Apex Headache Clinic?

When I went to see the neurologist, he said we had two options; more preventative medication or try specialist physiotherapy treatment at Apex Headache Clinic. I didn’t want to take any more medication and I had read about Apex Headache Clinic on Facebook. The neurologist told me he had referred a lot of patients to Apex Headache Clinic, and they got great relief. That was when I thought I would give Apex Headache Clinic a go.

How has your life changed since having treatment?

It’s fantastic now. I can now make plans without thinking about having pain relief with me. I don’t feel sick anymore with the migraines and I’m not taking medication constantly everyday.

What advice would you offer someone suffering from migraines?

I would definitely advise them to give Apex Headache Clinic a go.

Stick with the treatment at the beginning, I was seeing my specialist physiotherapist once a week for the first 6 weeks until my migraines had improved and then we were able to space the sessions out. I now attend Apex Headache Clinic once a month for maintenance

apex

apex

™

™

clinic

headache clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

chiropody

massage

Ire la n d ’s le a d in g p h y s io th e ra p y & s p o r ts in ju r y c lin ic in fo @ a p e x c lin ic .c o .u k w w w .a p e x c lin ic .c o .u k

in fo @ a p e x h e a d a c h e c lin ic .c o .u k w w w .a p e x h e a d a c h e c lin ic .c o .u k

5 -1 1 S u m m e r h il A v e n u e B e lfa s t B T 5 7 H D

60

PAGE60.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:16

COLUMN

Rebecca Nelson

Rebecca is founder and Director of Physiotherapy at Apex Clinic and Apex Headache Clinic.

WE CURE HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES

This month, Apex Headache Clinic Founder and Spinal & Headache Physiotherapy Specialist, Rebecca Nelson offers some interesting facts on headaches and shares how the clinic’s team of specialist headache physiotherapists have been treating and clearing headaches and migraines for years.

Headaches ruin lives At Apex Headache Clinic, Belfast, we know the devastating impact that headaches and migraines can have on people’s lives, leaving the person desperate to find a cure to relieve their pain.

Tension and stress are frequently blamed as the cause of these headaches, which often leads to people taking painkillers on a daily basis. However, painkillers don’t provide a long-term solution. What many people are unaware of, is that there is often a physical cause for their headaches, which actually stems from their neck. The great news is that, in the vast majority of cases this can be successfully treated and cleared without the need for medication.

Neck-triggered headaches and migraines are often the result of poor posture, hours spent hunched over desks and computers, repeated heavy lifting or a previous injury.

Sometimes there is no known reason why the neck became stiff and tight in the first place.

The first drug-free headache clinic in Ireland Apex Headache Clinic opened its doors years ago, and people travel from many different countries worldwide for our specialist treatment, called The Nelson Headache Approach™. This approach is offered in no other clinics at this time.

Along with my team of specialist headache physiotherapists, we have been successfully treating headaches and migraines for over 20 years and we’re very proud of our high success rate.

GET CLEAR ON THE FACTS SURROUNDING HEADACHES Too many painkillers can cause headaches It is uncommonly known that excessive medication can actually make headaches worse. In fact, 50% of migraine sufferers will receive no relief from medication used to treat migraines in the first place. Of those patients who do respond to medication, they are very likely to become used to it and therefore, over time, the medication will become less effective. But the good news is that my Nelson Headache Approach™ has been shown to be a highly effective, drug-free method of clearing or significantly reducing headaches and migraines in the vast majority of cases.

Poor pillows may be causing you damage At Apex Headache Clinic, we have witnessed repeatedly how poor pillows make headaches worse. Pillows are supposed to support the head and neck, and reduce compressive stresses on the structures of the neck whilst sleeping. However, many pillows are too soft or too flat and so headache sufferers may find they wake up with a headache the next day.

To fight the war against poor pillows, I have designed the Apex Sleepwell Pillow range, clinically proven to reduce neck pain and headaches in the majority of cases.

Each pillow is uniquely designed in terms of thickness and firmness to match needs of sleepers according to their build, from children to teens, right through to mediumsized adults and larger builds.

Headaches affect children too Parents often contact Apex Headache Clinic, after trying many other approaches, including consulting GPS, paediatricians, neurologists or opticians, with no relief.

We offer hope to families who are at the end of their tether, thanks to our drug-free, specialist approach to clearing headaches and migraines in all ages.

Treat pain at its source At Apex Headache Clinic, our motto is to always treat pain at its source. With the correct treatment, Apex Headache Clinic’s specialist physiotherapists should be able to clear your headaches and migraines, allowing you to enjoy life again.

To book an initial assessment and treatment, call Apex Headache Clinic on: 028 9048 4153.

No GP referral is necessary.

apex

apex

™

™

clinic

headache clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

chiropody

massage

61

PAGE61.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:17

UT Style

COSMETIC SKIN TAG AND MOLE REMOVAL

Logan Wellbeing and Medical is the only combined naturopathic and medical clinic in Northern Ireland and is led by fertility consultant Ruth-Ellen Logan.

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr. Chris Hoo specialises in the removal of cosmetic moles and skin tags. In the vast majority of cases all of these lesions are benign. But if there is any clinical concern about the nature of the lesion it can be sent off for testing.

Q & A with Chris Hoo

ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH PERIMENOPAUSE?

Q: How are skin lesions removed?

“In most cases these can be done under a local anaesthetic. If there are no concerns about its nature they can be either shaved off, or excised. Some skin lesions can also be treated by freezing the skin – termed cryotherapy. All options are discussed with the patient beforehand.”

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

“Since these are treated under local anaesthetic it shouldn’t! The worse bit is having the injection of anaethetic, which many patients describe as a mild stinging sensation. Cryotherapy does not even need an anesthetic.”

Q: How long does the procedure take?

“This depends on what’s being done, but most procedures take between 15 and 30 minutes or so.”

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

“That depends on you! If you are the sort of person who can drive home after a filling at the dentist then there should be no reason why not. But if you are a bit squeamish, it’s best to bring someone with you. They can at least tell you how brave you were, even if they don’t need to drive!”

Logan Wellbeing & Medical offer a range of bespoke treatments that can help alleviate the unpleasant

Q: What about aftercare?

“If stitches have been necessary these are generally removed after 5 – 7 days. For best results a combination of steristrips and scar massage are required and which you need to do will be discussed.”

symptoms associated with perimenopause, such as hot flushes, irregular cycles, night sweats and irritability.

Logan treatment plans include, acupuncture, clinical reflexology and Mayan abdominal and sacral massage.

Q: Will I have a scar?

“Scarring is an inevitable consequence of surgery in anyone’s hands, so yes. But of course the whole point is to be cosmetic and so everything is designed to minimise this. It’s best to consider this as replacing one cosmetic blemish with another one, which should be much better. But it is unrealistic to expect an invisible scar no matter who your specialist is.”

The benefit of complimentary therapies has been widely acknowledged to help bring hormones into balance, reduce the stress and anxiety, often associated with menopause and help improve sleep.

We also offer a range of IM’s & IV vitamin infusions, which

For further information or to book a consultation please call Cosmetech on 028 90423200 or visit www.cosmetech.co.uk

can be recommended following consultation. Packed with a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. IV vitamin therapy can help to provide the building blocks for better health and increased energy levels.

For more information contact the clinic on 02890687467.

Logan Wellbeing and Medical 354 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6GJ Tel: 028 9068 7467

62

PAGE62.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:18

FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS BRING WOMEN’S WELLNESS RETREAT TO NORTH COAST Sally Laverty (Physiotherapist and Pilates Instructor at Sally Laverty Physiotherapy), Sarah Bell (Co-Owner, CrossFit Level 1 Trainer and Nutrition Coach at Benmore Nutrition and Fitness) and Nicola Neill (Owner of Blackrock House Bed and Breakfast) are working together to offer a bespoke and exclusive women’s health and fitness retreat on the North Coast this September. This three-day retreat, guided by Sally and Sarah and hosted by Nicola, begins on Sunday 26th September 2021 and will offer 4-8 women the opportunity to focus on personal wellbeing goals in the private and serene setting of Nicola’s 5*, award-winning, luxury accommodation.

Physiotherapy, Pilates, CrossFit, nutrition support and relaxation will be on the agenda along with sampling local food and drink and enjoying all that the Portrush and Blackrock House have to offer.

Late September is a wonderful time on the North Coast with the remains of the Summer sun and the slightly cooler mornings and evenings. With children back at school and the holidaymakers steadily departing, this is a perfect setting for personal reflection and for taking time to establish positive habits to boost wellbeing as we enter the darker months.

Nicola Neill owns and runs Blackrock House, Portrush’s first 5 star Bed and Breakfast. Her multi-award-winning boutique B&B accommodation fuses modern style with coastal living. Nicola’s attention to detail is clear to see from the moment you walk through the gate at her stylishly-renovated seaside property. Sally Laverty of Sally Laverty Physiotherapy lives and works in Ballycastle. She is a musculoskeletal therapist specialising in women’s pelvic health and leads Pilates classes for all levels and abilities at her private studio. Sarah Bell spends her time between coaching classes at Benmore CrossFit and consulting with groups and individuals to offer nutrition support for all health and fitness goals. Sally and Sarah have worked together for four years, supporting women’s health issues through local events and classes.

For further information about the retreat:

Instagram: restore_ni Email: hello@benmorenutritionfitness.com

PAGE63.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:19

THE SCENE

Radek Gach, William and Glynis Stewart and Steven Herbison.

Bronagh McLaughlin and Luke McClelland.

RAINBOW PROJECT QUIZ The Rainbow Project’s annual Pride week fundraiser The Big Gay Quiz recently returned to Elmwood Hall.

Big prizes and great craic were guaranteed with the Speakeasy’s legendary quiz host Emma-Rose joined by the amazing Electra and Dick Von Dyke.

All money raised went directly to The Rainbow Project who lost all their fundraising capability during the Covid lockdown.

.

Desmond Eastwood and Thomas Kane Byrne.

Ally Milligan, Benjamin Tierney and Sean O’Neill.

zzzz Orla McGinnity, Cara Dorman and Faye Purdy.

Emma-Rose from Queen’s LGBT with quiz hosts Electra and Dick Von Dyke.

64

PAGE64-65 NEW.indd 2

02/08/2021 16:40

THE SCENE

Sophie Craig, Kirsten Doran, Amy Shields, Niall Downey, Rory Doherty and Rosie Nixon.

Feargal McFerran, Aisling Twomey and Jayne Robinson from the Rainbow Project.

.

Jack McGarry, Ellen Haveron and Darragh Tibbs.

Anna pollock, Joe Scott, Charlie Quigley, Alicia Kerr, Eden Burton and Cliona Deeds.

Free Digital Editions DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN READ BACK ISSUES OF ALL OUR TITLES FOR FREE?

FOCUS ON SOUTH BELFAST

SUMMERTIME ’21 SPECIAL

ULSTER TATLER GOES GREEN

UT CHATS TO ARTIST COLIN DAVIDSON

SUMMER 2021

INSIDE HOMES IN Belfast, Monaghan, and southern Spain KITCHEN DESIGNERS GUIDE 2021

Northern Ireland Architect Designed Homes

AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION | VOLUME 9 ISSUE 1 £3.00 (€2.49)

ISSUE 46 £2.95

CIPR PRIDE AWARDS 2017 - BEST PUBLICATION

MAY/JUNE 2021

£3.20

Spring 2021

AUGUST 2021

AMBITION MAGAZINE OF NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

£3.00

livingdesign

NORTHERN IRELAND’S NO1 GLOSSY

UlsterTatler

livingdesign Northern Ireland Architect Designed Homes

Perspective

CROI BELFAST SOUTH WEST WINDSOR BAPTIST ÉANNA BACK CARE & COLLEGE CHURCH PHYSIOTHERAPY ERNE CAMPUS JULY 2021 £4.00  03

SPRING 21

9 770967 217018

Wood Stone Porcelain Mosaic Bathrooms

Ulster Bank’s NI Head Mark Crimmins talks to Ambition about the bank’s commitment to addressing climate change.

covers new.indd 1

£4.00

£3.20 (€4.55)

Carryduff Business Park, 8 Comber Road, Carryduff BT8 8AN T +44 28 9081 7272 E info@cecoproducts.com www.cecoproducts.com

(€7.00)

CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE RECOVERY 02/02/2021 12:33

Full Colour

Black

Reverse

GO TO ULSTERTATLER.COM AND CLICK FREE DIGITAL 65

PAGE64-65 NEW.indd 3

02/08/2021 16:43

MY

and football are long behind me. I’ve actually taken up the less intense sports of lawn bowls and golf! That may make me seem older than my 40 years but I do love the competitive nature of both without the risk of torn muscles and broken bones.

6. Do you have any tips for staying positive during this time?

I believe it helps to worry about the things in life you can influence. If you put your efforts into those with a positive mindset, it helps you remain focused and maintain a positive outlook. I’m lucky to have a great network of family and friends.

7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland?

I have lived in many countries and I always say there is no place like Northern Ireland. You can be on the beach one minute, exploring a city the next and then on to beautiful countryside, all within the space of a few hours. When you couple that with the people here, it really makes it a special place.

AARON FLAHERTY

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by?

“Special things happen to special people.”

I always say this as I believe if you’re kind hearted and try to make a positive impact on the people around you then positive things will come back to you.

Head Distiller, Hinch Distillery

1. What do you love most about your job?

Working within an industry that I absolutely love. Every day I have the freedom to create premium spirit in my own way. At Hinch, there are no restrictions as we are a brand new facility.

2. What has been your career highlight to date?

My proudest moment was filling our first casks with New Make Single Malt. This was the culmination of an entire Distillery design and build. The aroma of the filling store that day will live with me forever.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work?

I love sport and try to get to as many live events as I can. Unfortunately, this hasn’t been possible during the last year but I try to make up for that by watching as much as I can

on telelvison. As you would expect, the drinks industry goes hand-in-hand with social events, so I do love getting out and sampling our products in some of Belfast’s great bars and restaurants.

4. What is your daily routine?

I get up at 06:00 every day and I’m on site at the distillery for 07:00. We commence mashing and distillation religiously from this time. The beauty of a distillery is that it dictates how your day will progress, as long as it doesn’t throw up any surprises. When these processes are underway, it allows me time to focus on either casking our spirit or bottling our award winning Whiskeys and Gin. When I get home, I enjoy relaxing with my wife. At this time of year, a scenic walk along Helen’s Bay or Crawfordsburn is perfect.

5. Do you have a specific fitness regime?

Unfortunately my sporting days with rugby

9. Who has been your biggest influence?

This would have been my father. From as long as I can remember, he always pushed us to try and be the best that we could be. He was determined to give us a start that he himself wasn’t afforded and I am so grateful to him for that. I wish he could have been here to see the distillery come to life and to witness the first spirit I produced.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: The Big Lebowski Band/Musician: Fleetwood Mac Book: Papillon Restaurant: Edo - Belfast Holiday Destination: I’ve forgotten what a holiday is but New Zealand is a stunning place Drink: Hinch Peated Single Malt Meal: Any Tapas

66

PAGE66.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:20

Ulster T atler SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

In association with

PAGE67.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:30

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

.

68

Emma Hunter, Emma Morrow and Jodie Johnston.

.

Paul and Ryan Kersley.

Lindsey Hamilton and Angela Greer.

DOWN ROYAL Summer race meetings continued with an event on 23rd July at Down Royal. Horse racing fans were treated to a spectacular day at the outdoor event, as temperatures reached an all-time high – perfect for donning summer dresses, sunglasses and enjoying a refreshing beverage while you watch the action!

Linda and Jonny Belshaw.

.

Suzanne Magowan and Hannah Crawford.

John and Lauren Boyle, Barnie and Elaine Macrory.

Svetlana Murphy, Marina Elliott and Lana Sutkova.

.

Ceri Watters, Leah Smyth and Caitlin Lyons.

PAGE68.indd 2

Rachel Sweeney and Harry Muir.

Darren and Shauna Hunter.

Patricia and Sean Quinn and Eithne McCracken.

Alan and Jennifer Kingsmill.

02/08/2021 12:27

Make Our Space

rabb itho tel.c om

PAGE69.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:23

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

.

70

Pius Kulama, Derek Spencer, Joan Cunningham and Cllr Robert Burgess.

Sarah McComb presents the John Hale memorial shield to Joan Cunningham.

SAINTFIELD HORSE SHOW LAUNCH The 2021 Saintfield Horse Show which takes place on Saturday 14th August was launched in style at a sponsors reception hosted by well known Racehorse Trainer and former International Showjumping rider George Stewart at his Danescroft Equestrian Centre.

. Paul Horner and Robert Morrow.

. Derek Spencer and show

director Joan Cunningham.

Guests from across the equestrian world were welcomed by show director Joan Cunningham.

Among the guests were equestrian journalist Ruth Loney, Downpatrick Race Course Manager Richard Lyttle and of course George Stewart.

Valerie McBride, Alan Buchanan and Joan Cunningham.

Mark Clendinning and Ruth Loney.

PAGE70.indd 2

Megan Hamill, Ashleigh Kirkpatrick and Phil Boyd.

02/08/2021 12:49

theoldinn.com The Old Inn Launch Campaign_ A4 Poster.indd 1

20/07/2021 14:01

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

72

Carroll McCartan and Karen Maguire with Juno.

Karen and Toby Hughes.

BALLYHOLME REGATTA Ballyholme Yacht Club recently held their Cadet Regatta, giving young sailing enthusiasts the chance to compete in a number of sailing events.

With the glorious weather, it made for a great day out for the young cadets and their families.

Richard McCullough, twins Rory and Finn, Granny Amanda McCullough and Christine McCullough.

Debra, Chloe and club captain Alan Whyte.

Past Commodore David and Margaret McMullan.

PAGE72-73.indd 2

Hanna and dad John Bell.

02/08/2021 12:22

73

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

Club Commodore Aidan Pounder and Ards & North Down Mayor Cllr Robert Adair.

Emma and Amy West-Hurst.

Aaron, Claire, Alexander and Darragh Ritson.

Ryan, Sarah, Jasper and Sophia Smith.

. Paul Gillespie, Sarah-Jane Harris and pico class winner Emily-Mae.

PAGE72-73.indd 3

BYC sailing rear Commodore Des Magee with his 2012 Olympics boat.

Nick and Jenny Palmer with sailing cadet winners Daniel and Natalie.

02/08/2021 12:22

t

: i.ne t i s Vi eln ers

avre off r t te o

eli for m

Elite Travel NI

YOUR ELITE TRAVEL COMPANY OFFERING HOLIDAYS TAILORED AROUND YOU

YORK BREAK

London Show Breaks

MICHAEL BUBLE TRIBUTE NIGHT

• Departs 19th November 2021 • 3 Days • From £189 per person • Deposit £50 per person

Sept 2021 - Oct 2022 #girlsbreak #birthdaybreak #couplesbreak

KILLARNEY- GLENEAGLE HOTEL

GLASGOW, LOCH LOMOND AND EDINBURGH 2022

• Departs 25th October 2021 • 4 Days • From £349 per person • Deposit £50 per person

• Departs 19th November 2021 • 3 Days • From £189 per person • Deposit £50 per person

HOTEL L’ARCHIPEL, SEYCHELLES

*Prices from £199pp including flights/hotel/named area tickets #stalls #circle #wow from any Belfast Airport or City of Derry.

3, 4, or 5A hotels in London you decide.

13 Day Classic Group Tour - DISCOVER JAPAN Savings up to £1,490pp / €1,560 pp flying from Belfast, Cork or Dublin. Journey across the Japanese Alps to the cultural centres of Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa on this extensive tour of Japan. You will of course see modern Tokyo and beautiful Mt Fuji as well as historical Kyoto and Nara.

Departs 4th May 2022 (Other departure dates in 2022 & 2023.)

Price includes: • 7 nights in a Superior Room • Return economy flights • Half board • Inter-island flight transfers in the Seychelles • Departures in June 2022 Departure airports: DUBLIN - £2,440pp

GBP PRICES: Price from Belfast or Dublin with FREE Flights from £5,090pp. Saving of £700pp.

Price for SOLO Traveller from Belfast or Dublin from £5,790pp. Saving of £1,490pp.

4A Ibiza Foodie October Short Break

DISNEYLAND PARIS Magical Offers from £389pp 3 Nights, 4 days Park Tickets, Flights & transfers 13th December 2021 from £429pp 9th March 2022 from £389pp 15th May 2022 from £475pp

9th Octover - 4 nights - from £389pp Morning Food Tasting Walk in Ibiza - included Price includes: Return flights Belfast International to Ibiza Hand luggage only 4A Hotel Nautico Ebeso, Bed and breakfast basis

Price Includes: Return Air France Flights ex Dublin 3 nights in Disney’s 3 star Cheyenne Hotel 4 Days Park Tickets

Christmas Party Idea Liverpool Weekend Enjoy A Gin Journey in Liverpool Dec 2021 • 10th Dec £299pp x 2 nights • Price includes: Return flights Belfast Int to Liverpool Hand luggage only ATOL Protected Deposit £139

LAS VEGAS SEPTEMBER 2022 10 Nights Only £795pp 11th & 18th September 2022 x 10 nights Return flights from Dublin 3 Excalibur Hotel & Casino Room only 23kgs checked in luggage

ATOL Protected Deposit £149pp

GALWAY - ST PATRICKS DAY 2022 • Departs 16th March 2022 • 4 Days • From £279 per person • Deposit £50 per person

Deposit - £50 per person

START PLANNING SUMMER 2023 BOOK NOW FOR JUST £60PP* T&C’S APPLY

• Ballymoney Tel: 028 2769 8050 • Belfast Tel: 028 9099 3447 Cookstown Tel: 028 8678 8005 elite travel ad.indd 1

02/08/2021 16:14

AWARD-WINNING LOCAL PRODUCE

Cloughbane Farm Shop's 28 Day Matured Ribeyes, Sirloins & Fillets have all won Great Taste Awards

A GREAT SELECTION OF READY MEALS

Lasagnes, Cottage Pies, Chicken & Broccoli Bake & Pastry Pies

AVAILABLE TO ORDER VIA OUR NEW WEBSITE WWW.CLOUGHBANEFARM.COM OR PHONE:028 877 58246

FREE HOME DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £45 CLICK & COLLECT ALSO AVAILALBE

Cloughbane Farm Foods, 160 Tanderagee Road, Pomeroy, Co Tyrone BT70 3EB email: info@cloughbanefarm.com

PAGE75.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:21

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

76

OFFERING BEAR MAKING WORKSHOPS & BEAR MAKING KITS WE SUPPLY TO INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMERS, NURSERIES AND COMMUNITY GROUPS ETC

TIME TO ENJOY THE BOYNE VALLEY It’s time to enjoy family-fun in the Boyne Valley, across Meath and south Louth. Only an hour from Belfast, the Boyne Valley offers adventures galore, from Tayto Park to Navan Adventure Centre.

Take a dip at Funtasia Waterpark or one of Boyne Valley beaches. At Causey Farm try their Ice Cream Adventure, or explore Fairy Trails at Loughcrew Estate or Beewise Gardens. Explore ancient tombs at Bru na Bóinne (Newgrange and Knowth) and medieval wonders in Trim, Kells or Mellfont. Discover greenways, blueways, tracks and trails, all in the great outdoors.

For more information and to check availability, see: www.discoverboynevalley.ie/boyne-valley-time-enjoy

VOI CE RECORDER

Painted Earth Newcastle Jewellery | Art | Crafts | Prints | Gifts| Cards Based in the Heart of the Mourne Mountains Our Artists & Makers: Alan Ardiff, Alison McIlkenny, Field Day, Jill Graham, The Handmade Soap Co, Richard Croft and many more

CRAFTY TEDDIES PROVIDES ALL CHILDREN THE MAGICAL EXPERIENCE OF BUILDING AND OWNING THEIR OWN BEAR TO CHERISH AND LOVE FOREVER.

Visit us on the Main Street in Newcastle 028 4372 2510 | www.paintedearthgifts.com Painted.Earth

PaintedEarthNewcastle

HOW TO BOOK:

If you would like to book your bear mailing workshop or place an order contact us on: T: 07515 772115 E: craftyteddies@outlook.com

@bearmakingfun

PAGE76.indd 2

craftyteddies

03/08/2021 10:10

A vibr t ndscape, d by the pаt

Summer and Autumn Special Offers Ardboyne Hotel, Navan

Bellinter House, Navan

Castle Arch Hotel, Trim

Causey Farm, Girley, Fordstown

Stay & Dine this Autumn

Escape to the Manor at Bellinter

Romantic Getaway this Autumn

Causey Ice Cream Adventure

From €99.00 total stay

From €135 pps

From €99.00 total stay

10% discount

One night Bed & Breakfast for 2 with an evening meal and complimentary glass of bubbly

Experience enchantment with a break at Bellinter House this summer with one of our B&B packages

Overnight stay for 2 with breakfast and evening meal with a complimentary glass of bubbly included

Weekday tickets at Causey Ice Cream Adventure at reduced rate of €10.80 per person with Promo Code (TATLER)

Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021

Offer valid until end of August 2021

Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021

Offer valid until 29 August 2021

Book: +353 (0)46 902 3119 ardboynehotel.com

Book: +353 (0)46 903 0900 bellinterhouse.com

Book: +353 (0)46 943 1516 castlearchhotel.com

Book: +353 (0)46 94 34135 causey.ie/icecream

CityNorth Hotel, Gormanstown

Conyngham Arms Hotel, Slane

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa

Glenside Hotel, Drogheda

Family Tayto Park Break

Prime time – Over 50s Special

Ivy Restaurant Dining Experience

Summer Special - Kids Stay Free

From €289

€139 per night

From €130.00 pps

€110 mw/€130 we

One night B & B for 2 adults and 2 children with access tickets for Tayto Park

Tea/coffee & scones on arrival. 3-course dinner.

Beautifully-appointed bedrooms and cooked to order breakfast

1 night Bed and Breakfast with 3 course A La Carte dinner in our Ivy Restaurant

Offer valid 1 - 31 August 2021

Offer valid Sun – Thur, July - December 2021

Offer valid until 31 December 2021

Stay overnight with breakfast in one of our family rooms for 2 adults and up to 2 children.

Kids Stay Free Offer valid 1 July - 31 August 2021

Book: +353 (0)1 690 6666 citynorthhotel.com

Book: +353 (0)41 988 4444 conynghamarms.ie

Book: +353 (0)1 801 3500 dunboynecastlehotel.com

Book: +353 (0)41 982 9999 glensidehotel.ie

Hamlet Court Hotel, Johnstownbridge

Headfort Arms Hotel, Kells

Kiltale Holiday Homes, Trim

Listoke Distillery, Tinure

Fabulous Fridays

Midweek Golf Experience

Farm Experience Holiday

Make Your Own Bottle of Gin

€450.00 for 3 night

€50 pps

€199 pps

Friday Treat with our Fabulous Fridays Offer! €50 per person sharing B & B available Fridays Summer 2021

2 midweek night’s stay with Boyne Valley Breakfast on each morning and 2 rounds of Golf at Headfort Golf Club next door

.

Enjoy a “Hands on Farm Experience” in one our self-catering holiday homes for 3 nights for a family of 4

Make Your Own Bottle of Gin and bring your bottle of gin home! Must be pre-booked on line.

€95 per person

Offer valid 1 July - 30 September 2021

Offer valid midweek until the end of 2021

Offer valid 1 July - 30 September 2021

Offer valid weekends until December 2021

Book: +353 (0)46 954 1200 thehamlet.ie

Book: +353 (0)46 924 0063 headfortarms.ie

Book: +353 (0)86 122 1589 meathselfcatering.com

Book: +353 (0)41 214 5044 listokedistillery.ie

Newgrange Hotel, Navan

Slane Farm Hostel, Cottages & Camping

Solstice Arts Centre, Navan

Trim Castle Hotel, Trim

Fall Into Autumn Break

Summer in Slane!

André Rieu’s Concert: Together Again

Summer Be-Gins

From €99.00 total stay

Stay 4 nights and get 5th FREE

€12

From €69 pps

One night Bed & Breakfast for 2 with an evening meal and complimentary glass of bubbly

Come stay in our fab 4 star self-catering cottages or camp with Jack and Michelle the donkey and goat

ACCESS Cinema presents ‘The King of the Waltz.

Tickets only €12, duration of event 140 mins approx. including intermission

One night B & B, dinner for two with G&T served with your meal. Late checkout at 1pm. Includes a flexible 24 hour cancellation on all bookings.

Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021

Offer valid until 31 August 2021

Offer valid 8 July - 29 August 2021

Offer valid midweek until end of August 2021

Book: +353 (0)46 907 4100 newgrangehotel.ie

Book: +353 (0)41 988 4985 slanefarmhostel.ie

Book: +353 (0)46 909 2300 solsticeartscentre.ie

Book: +353 (0)46 948 3000 trimcastlehotel.com

All bookings are to be made with the accommodation provider directly and are subject to availability and terms and conditions. Please quote ‘Boyne Valley Tourism’ when booking. Boyne Valley Tourism is a promotional company and does not accept responsibility for any of the special offers. For more information on family activities in the Boyne Valley see discoverboynevalley.ie/boyne-valley-time-enjoy

facebook.com/discoverboynevalley

#BoyneValley

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

78

EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS AT NORTHERN IRELAND’S PREMIER SPA DESTINATION

Treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation with an overnight stay at the Resort’s Riverside Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast experience, from £510. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in a spacious Riverside Log Cabin, complete with everything you need for a relaxing retreat in the great outdoors. Situated on the banks of the River Maine, a short walk from the main Hotel, the riverside Log Cabins are perfect for families or groups who prefer a little more seclusion and privacy. Relax at your leisure with a private hot tub located on the terrace.

Open up a world of new discoveries, adventure and memory-making moments with an indulgent short break at the luxurious Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort. Boasting world-class hospitality and unrivalled spa, accommodation and golf facilities, the globally renowned Resort is the jewel in Northern Ireland’s hospitality crown.

With 2021 set to be the summer of ‘The Great Outdoors’, immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, nestled in the countryside just outside Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Set within 163 acres of lush parkland, the Resort boasts breath-taking views of the River Maine which flows through the estate, offering the perfect setting to enjoy a tranquil and relaxing escape in nature’s haven.

For the ultimate overnight nature retreat, switch off and cosy up with the Shepherds Huts Bed & Breakfast experience, from £330. New for 2021, these one-bed huts are located in the Secret Meadow and are fully equipped for an authentic woodland retreat, including an outdoor bath to experience the healing and restorative benefits of the surrounding forest. This package includes Thermal Spa Village relaxation and a full Irish Breakfast in Gillies to set you up for your day.

Voted Best Spa Experience across the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2021, the Resort recently unveiled its new, dramatically enhanced Thermal Spa Village, including a stunning vitality pool on the shores of the River Maine, a Palm House relaxation area and bar, and a brand-new Salt Cave for halotherapy experiences. Dine al fresco to the sound of the River Maine flowing past with lunch at Elements Café, offering guests a relaxing environment for a nourishing interlude during your journey of rediscovery. Graze on a selection of freshly prepared tasting slates or hand baked pastries created using locally sourced ingredients.

For golfing enthusiasts, tee off on one of Ireland’s finest Championship parklands at Galgorm Castle, home of the ISPS Handa World Invitational. Round off the day with a bite to eat at Castle Kitchen + Bar where the distinct warmth and ambience make it a space for all occasions and tastes. An eclectic mix of classic pub starters alongside Mexican bites, daily chef specials and house-made desserts are sure to ignite your taste buds after a day spent on the green.

To explore The Great Outdoors packages available at Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, visit: www.galgorm.com

Shake off the stresses of the day and unwind with a Two Night Dining Retreat from £540 for two guests, perfect for those occasions when one night simply isn’t enough. Guests will enjoy a relaxing stay in a luxurious guestroom, complete with complimentary mini bar and everything you need to ensure an unforgettable stay, including breakfast each morning. Experience a taste of Galgorm with a sumptuous three course evening meal on one evening in Gillies Grill. For something sweet, savour a seasonal Afternoon Tea in The Conservatory on an afternoon of your choice. No stay would be complete without relaxation in the award-winning Thermal Spa Village where you can immerse yourself in total relaxation at your leisure. Visit the Thermal Spa’s many outdoor attractions including vitality pool, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms, recline on cabanas or take a stroll through the Resort’s Mulberry Garden and experience the restorative powers of nature.

PAGE78.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:38

It’s Honeycomb With A Sting Local drinks company Niche Drinks have been manufacturing and exporting their range of Irish Cream Liqueurs for over 35 years and now they are trying to bring a local favourite to a wider audience.

Managing Director Ciaran Mulgrew explains “When I was a kid, we spent a lot of time up in Ballycastle and I always loved the Auld Lamas Fair and in particular Yellow Man, the hard boiled honeycomb sweet that you find all around the North Coast.

Over the years I always thought it would be a great flavour to put into a liqueur and that’s where the idea behind “YellaMan Honeycomb Vodka Liqueur” came from – it’s a fantastic honeycomb, and burnt caramel flavour which really comes through on the nose and on your palate.”

YellaMan has been launched locally by Drinks Inc. and Mulgrew has high hopes for it: “When people drink a vodka, the alcohol content at 37.5% is quite high and all people really get on their palate is the alcohol burn and no flavour. YellaMan is a vodka liqueur which means it is at a lower alcohol level and that makes it easier to taste the flavours in the product, hopefully people will enjoy it.” YellaMan – it’s honeycomb with a sting.

79 Niche drink.indd 5

02/08/2021 16:33

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

COOL SUMMER NIGHTS Central Alfresco provides unquestionably the best and most peaceful vantage point of Donegal Bay, Central Alfresco is the idyllic spot to enjoy sublime food, cocktails, wine and beer, watching the tide slip away.

Enjoy terrace tasters including a variety of favourite dishes to choose from coupled with a beverage of choice.

There are heated lamps and sheltered alcoves should rain make an appearance and melodic summer tunes lilting through the sea air to add to a wonderful atmosphere.

As Donegal has been noted #coolestplaceontheplanet, this is the #coolest outdoor dining experience concept in Donegal.

County of Donegal theme continues with Kinnegar beer and Silkies whiskey which are made locally in addition to a Magee of Donegal tweed blankets to snuggle on as evenings get cooler.

Bookings are not essential but may be advisable as we know this is the place to be this summer.

Check out www.centralhoteldonegal.com

80

SMALL AND FRIENDLY IN MENORCA Enjoy the peace and quiet of our small and friendly family run B&B. Rustic country rooms set within the tranquil middle of the island, but only a few miles from unspoilt beaches and interesting places. A place to enjoy nature, relax and forget the stress of city life. 8 double fully equipped rooms with ensuite bathroom and aircon, spacious uncrowded restaurant with table service, private pool, safe private car park and garden.

Relax and unwind in Menorca’s natural beauty, declared a biosphere reserve on the 7th of October, 1993, by UNESCO. Enjoy the walks of the Camí de Cavalls, a remarkable path that has existed since 1330, to discover cliffs and beaches, and Menorcan pre-history, Talaiotic Cultures.

Enquiries at: smallandfriendlyinmenorca@gmail.com 07740 Es Mercadal, Menorca, Balearic Islands.

PAGE80.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:42

Romantic hotel of the year Boutique hotel of the year IRISH HOTEL AWARDS 2021

ROMANCE IS...

TIME TOGETHER

SOPHISTICATION IS...

Best enjoyed while relaxing on one of our super king size beds, wrapped in an extra fluffy duvet or while soaking in a free standing bath enjoying a glass of bubbles with your better half.

HAPPINESS IS...

DINING IN STYLE Cosy lighting, boujee decór, flavoursome cocktails served with fresh and local produce cooked to perfection.

A NIGHT AWAY WITH THE GIRLS Arrive for an overnight stay to the North Coast's only boutique hotel, sip signature cocktails on arrival in our VIP lounge, relax with an in room treatment of choice, enjoy a sumptuous three course meal in our award wining restaurant and, before departing, reminisce the night before over breakfast.

Bed & Breakfast rates from £79 per person sharing Girls together package from £155 per person sharing

PAGE81.indd 1

meandmrsjonesportstewart.com 02870834950

02/08/2021 16:33

SUMMER OF STAYCATIONS

We chat to some prominent local figures about why The island of Ireland is the ultimate staycation location this summer.

Portrush

Kate Nicholson Music Artist We explored Northern Ireland from our own home this year! We have a 19 month old son and I was 8 months pregnant so couldn’t stray very far.

We visited Glenarrif Forest in the Glens of Antrim and had a swim in the magic Waterfall pools! We also stayed in Belfast for a twonight “babymoon” in the Grand Central hotel.

We had a nice cold drink overlooking the city and then had a few beautiful meals and walk around the Cathedral Quarter (Mourne Seafood, and James Street South). We also did a Black Taxi Tour of Belfast (even though we had lived in Belfast for many years). It was a brilliant tour and one I would recommend to anyone. It is hard to believe we are still such a divided city and I hope with time we will be able to see past any differences, heal the hurt, and celebrate all cultures. During the staycation week I also got ready for a single launch night! My new single “Street Lamps” is available to stream on Spotify and on all other platforms. My new album can be pre-ordered at www.katenicholson.co.uk.

Lord Mayor Graham Warke Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council This summer l will not be going far from home and honestly l am so excited visiting new locations close to home. We are all so lucky in Londonderry. We have the outstanding beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way and the beautiful scenic drive of the Causeway Coastal Route. I intend to revisit both of these locations this year and also spending family time in my caravan, which is located in Portrush. There is always something to do with the kids in Portrush regardless of the weather. I am also looking forward to visiting new locations in Northern Ireland and making happy family memories.

82

PAGE82-83.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:23

Stephen Whalley Director Whalley Fine Art Husband and wife artists Stephen Whalley and Dawn Crothers purchased this quint little fisherman’s cottage in Donaghadee just metres from the sea, back in early 2020 and decided to renovate it during the first lockdown in June 2020. The house has seen an amazing luxury transformation both inside and out!

The interior has been finished to an exceptionally high standard with all the mod cons and technology enabled devices to make your stay a memorable one!

The rear garden has also seen an amazing makeover with a purpose-built garden room / art studio and a beautiful deck and patio area with an amazing outside fire pit and BBQ. The house has a master bedroom and a second bedroom with two single beds. The house has been filled with Dawn’s amazing artwork and giftware, which can be purchased via an app at the house!

This unique stay is available via enquiring through the Instagram page @snailhousedonaghdee.

Jenny Humphreys Speech and language therapist A little less than six weeks ago we decided that going abroad really was not going to happen this year…which led us to consider our bucketlist destination of the new Center Parcs Ireland. It did not disappoint. Fortunately there was a woodland lodge still available at such short notice and we were overjoyed to discover it was a dog-friendly cabin! Copper also had the time of her life on her first staycation!

Little did we know, that a heatwave was to coincide with our 4-night stay in Center Parcs. Temperatures of 29°C made the outdoor river rapids and swimming pool even more appealing, not to mention the daily dive into the lake to cool down. We really were very fortunate with the amazing weather. On arrival, we picked up our four bicycles for the week, and cycled to our little hideaway amongst the trees of Longford forest. Anna and Zoe were so excited to be independently ‘flying’ around the forest paths and parking up in the numerous cycle parks. Our lodge came fully equipped with Neff oven, microwave and dishwasher, as well as two en-suite bedrooms. The living area allowed us to play games and relax and in the evening time we used the outdoor BBQ area.

Jenny Humphreys with husband Ian (former There were endless options to pick from in terms of activities, and a major Irish and Ulster rugby player) with their highlight was the aerial adventure which included an hour tree top-course children Anna (12), Zoe (10) and dog Copper. culminating in a huge descent on a 170-metre zip line which spanned the lake. We learned how to load and fire a bow and arrow, we took double kayaks around the lake and had a hilarious game of crazy golf. Clay shooting was a particular favourite of mine, as they were shocked that I beat them all on points (ha ha).

On site, we enjoyed the many restaurants and coffee shops Center Parcs had to offer, as well as finding the supermarket handy for those BBQ evenings. The electric iced teas were a daily hit and we often enjoyed a sundowner cocktail at Cara’s kitchen. We were not one bit surprised to hear the girls say “next year we want another active holiday”, we all came home thoroughly relaxed and refreshed.

83

PAGE82-83.indd 3

02/08/2021 12:23

TAKING YOU ANYWHERE IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM AND BEYOND! NOW OPEN New Additions:

Sensory Room Upgraded Digital Theatre software (Digistar 7) New projectors in Digital Theatre New dome shows Exhibition area Changing places Shop and café facelift

Book Tickets:

www.armagh.space #PLACEFORSPACE #STAYCURIOUS

2 Night Break from £95pps Tel 02820762222 reception@marinehotelballycastle.com www.marinehotelballycastle.com

SUMMERTIME ‘21 SPECIAL

86

. Dessie Houston (Dunmurry GC former President), Dick Lewis, former Irish Rugby International Philip Rainey and Brian Johnston.

Gabriel Byrne (Warrenpoint GC President), Ardglass GC past captains Harry Dougherty, Brian McMullan and Jack Murphy.

ULSTER PRESS GOLF SOCIETY EVENT The Ulster Press Golf Society event at Malone Golf Club, sponsored by Movie House Cinemas, had a fine turnout of 62 players who enjoyed a grand day out on the manicured fairways and greens of Malone. Ciaran McCaffrey of Talksport was the overall winner of the day with a beautifully crafted 43 points, a fine score on a course that proved a real test of golf. Thanks to Michael McAdam, Movie House MD and Paddy Dean, Malone GM for making it a day to remember.

. David Robinson, Josh Robinson, Chris Cairns and Gareth Robinson.

Liam Beckett and David Millar.

Winners at the Ulster Press Golf Society event at Malone Golf Club. L to R: Adrian Eastwood, Ciaran McCaffrey (overall winner), Roddy O’Flaherty, Paddy Dean (GM Malone GC), UPGS Captain James O’Leary, David Lynas, Michael McAdam (MD Movie House Cinemas), John O’Neill and Ruth Gorman.

Overall winner at Malone Golf Club was Ciaran McCaffrey (L) with UPGS Captain James O’Leary ( centre) and MD Michael McAdam, of sponsor Movie House Cinemas.

Albert Kirk, former NI football International player John O’Neill, Liam Beckett and William Duffy.

PAGE86.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:25

Our racing packages include: • Arrive & Drive (15 min, 20 min or 30 min track time) • Unlimited Laps (60 min track time) • Sprint 30 ( including: 4 lap qualifying, 30 lap sprint race) • Grand Prix (including qualifying, two heats and final)

10% off August & September bookings with code: TatlerAug21 (must be quoted at the time of booking)

Unique packages can be created for:

• Birthday Parties • Hen & Stag Parties • Youth & School Groups • Team Building Days To book call us or find us on Facebook, Instagram and online

Contact information : 028 2565 1000

PAGE87.indd 1

raceviewkartingindoor

raceview_karting_

www.raceviewkarting.com

02/08/2021 12:31

UlsterTatler FOCUS ON

Tatler Goes Green W

ith more awareness of our environmental impacts, ethical and sustainable work are at the forefront of tackling climate change. Ulster Tatler has created this special eco feature to explore ways we can help reduce our carbon footprint and help make the world a better and fairer place.

88

PAGE88.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:40

Plant Based Plans is the brainchild of Kenny Rea, having started life under the banner of Hugh Carol’s Home Cooking; an events and catering company servicing Northern Ireland.

The success of their catering business resulted in an almost-immediate demand for their plant-based recipes outside of these events, and so Plant Based Plans was born.

Their unrivaled eye for detail and knowledgeable culinary approach to plant-based eating quickly earned the company a reputation as purveyors of delicious plant-based cuisine. Their meals plans are calories and macro tracked, and freshly prepared by hand each week giving customers the best in local whole food produce.

The ethos behind the business is simple - making plant-based eating accessible for vegans and non-vegans alike, affordable and sustainable. And with customers ranging from students in halls of residence, to holiday makers, busy families and hassle free meals for professionals with a need for good quality, nutritious food but a lack of time to prepare dishes, the meal plans have found a huge audience in Northern Ireland.

Having recognised that many view vegan or plant-based eating as a luxury, Kenny and the team are on a mission to demystify vegan eating. The concept is simple: healthy, jargon-free meals delivered in chilled vehicles anywhere in Northern Ireland.

And by offering flexible ways to order through their app and website, it makes it easy for customers to introduce more plant based, healthy and environmentally responsible meals into their day-to-day life.

Practicing what they preach, the vegan owned and operated company are endeavouring to set examples in the local business community, by keeping sustainability and reducing their environmental impact at the forefront of everything they do, reducing the business plastic consumption by switching both to a plastic-free fruit and vegetable distributor as well as compostable packaging for all their meals.

Check out their website at plantbasedplasni.com to see their menu and ordering options, and subscribe to get all their latest news and info to your inbox.

Glenwood Business Centre, Belfast BT17 0YU Tel: 07860 822782 Email: team@plantbasedplansni.com www.plantbasedplansni.com PAGE89.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:39

TATLER GOES GREEN 90

Think green at Clarke’s Dry Cleaners Rodney Clarke, Owner of Clarke’s Dry Cleaners Tell us a bit about your business and how long have you been established?

I’ve been in the dry cleaning industry since 1986 and have had premises on the Lisburn Road from the beginning. We’ve really loved seeing the changes on the road through the years. Two years ago we made the decision to change the business due to environmental concerns, and brought in the eco dry cleaning.

Most recently we’ve renovated the shop and brought in a range of sustainable items for your kitchen and home. We also have a refill counter with eco friendly laundry and cleaning products from Irish based company Tru Eco. You are the first eco dry cleaners in Northern Ireland, what do you do differently to make your business eco-friendly?

Eco Dry Cleaning is a non-toxic, environmentally safe alternative to dry cleaning. It utilises computer-controlled machines, biodegradable soaps and conditioners. It is a new and eco-friendly way to get dry clean only garments washed safely.

It is a method of professional cleaning, that in contrast to

Why is it important for companies to take these steps to go green?

We’ve become more aware within our personal lives how everyday changes can begin to make a difference for a greener future, so it only seemed right to apply the principles of greener living to the business and reduce our environmental impact.

How did you get into this business, was it something you always wanted to do?

The opportunity to move into dry cleaning came at a good time when my son Jason was little. I brought the Euroclean franchise over to Northern Ireland in the 80s, we had eight outlets around Belfast and greater Belfast. I had always been involved in retail and knew that I would enjoy having a premises and interacting with the community on a day to day basis.

traditional dry cleaning, avoids the use of chemical solvents, the most common of which is tetrachloroethylene (commonly called perchloroethylene or “perc”).

We are proud to be the first in Northern Ireland to use this new and exciting dry cleaning method which has excellent results, clothes smell fresh, is excellent at stain removal and kind on the skin.

Your clothes are also then presented in biodegradable garment bags to help lessen our environmental impact.

PAGE90.indd 2

How did the decision to make the company eco-friendly and addition of the new eco-store come about?

My son and daughter-in-law got involved during lockdown in establishing the eco store. They are passionate about sustainable living and as we were already doing the eco dry cleaning, it seemed a perfect fit. All our wooden kitchen and bathroom products come from sustainable forests, all of our products are plastic free, our candles without paraffin and artificial fragrances etc. We also stock a lovely range of items for thoughtful eco conscious gift giving.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Without a doubt the interactions with our customers. We have a loyal customer base, some of whom have become good friends over the years. We’re also enjoying meeting many new customers coming in since we made these changes.

353 Lisburn Road | www.clarkesdrycleaners.com

02/08/2021 12:43

TATLER GOES GREEN

92

KILLEAVY CASTLE ESTATE, LEADS THE WAY IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM Killeavy Castle Estate, in Newry is leading the way in sustainable tourism and setting its sights on being recognised as one of the most sustainable hotels on the island of Ireland. The Estate opened two years ago and has as its centrepiece the stunningly refurbished Killeavy Castle – a Grade A listed 19th century gem that lay derelict for many years before being sympathetically restored to its former glory. Alongside the Castle, a 45-guestroom boutique style hotel, with spa, restaurant and bar has been purpose built with sustainability as its core ethos from concept to design, through to the daily operations.

The main hotel building was constructed with smart seasonal design concepts to reduce the reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Windows are positioned to maximise sun exposure and energy efficient lighting and sensor systems further reduce electricity usage. All the food served at the hotel comes from the 350-acre Estate’s onsite working farm, walled garden or sourced from local suppliers within a 30-mile radius from the Estate.

Located one hour from Belfast and Dublin, the Estate offers wide-open spaces in a tranquil setting making it the perfect destination for your next staycation in Ireland.

For more information visit www.KilleavyCastle.com

GIVING PLASTIC A SECOND LIFE Jordan Oral Care, following on from their sustainable Green Clean collection, are proud to announce their core toothbrush collection will now all be made from 80% recycled plastic.

Why do Jordan Oral Care use recycled plastics?

Plastic is a fantastic material – used correctly it allows them to make safe, hygienic and functional toothbrushes. However, virgin plastic is based on non-renewable sources and plastic ending up in nature and the oceans is a problem.

Plastic that is already in the ecosystem should be reused and we should make sure to utilise the potential in this material. The alternative is becoming waste, so using recycled plastic means using waste instead of virgin natural resources. Collecting plastics after use, keeps it away from nature. Every single piece of plastic ever made still exists, so it makes sense to repurpose and reuse this to ensure more virgin plastic is not created. With Jordan Green

PAGE92.indd 2

Clean, they have saved more than 60 tons of PP plastic, which is equivalent to around 115 tons of CO2 or 16 million plastic forks.

The Green Clean Collection from Jordan which is already taking care of the planet by ensuring all material used in production is carefully selected with the environment in mind – nothing is left to chance.

The handle is made from 100% recycled and FDAapproved plastic. The source of this material is food containers such as yoghurt cups, making it safe for use in your mouth.

The sustainable practises don’t stop with the handle, the Green Clean Adult Toothbrush (£3.00) for instance, has packaging made of recycled paper fibres. There is also the Green Clean Cavity Protection Toothpaste (£3.00) and the Green Clean Kids Toothbrush (£3.00).

For more information visit: www.jordanoralcare.com/sustainability

02/08/2021 12:53

93

TATLER GOES GREEN

REDUCE PACKAGING WASTE. REDUCE FOOD WASTE.

Refill shopping is a new version of an old way of life. We have bulk containers with a variety of food, cooking and household items which are used to refill any container. No more single use packaging and no need to buy more than necessary. Every refill saves one more item from being recycled or going to landfill.

Our hope is to make eco-friendly shopping a way of life and to inspire everyone to make small, sustainable changes for minimal waste living.

Lisburn Road COMING SOON Refill Quarter, 34 Belmont Road, BT4 2AN Email: info@refillquarter.com

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @refillquarter

The conscious clothing brand Sustainable, everyday comfortable clothing, inspired by nature and life in coastal Ireland. Unique designs to create conversations around sustainability, and the environment.

For our kids collection especially we create designs to create conversations and impact. With our ‘Save our Oceans’ design we are donating 15% of all proceeds to the non- profit organisation ’Sea Shepherd’, who help protect our oceans from illegal fishing, and pollution.

info@zizo.ie

PAGE93.indd 3

www.zizo.ie

@zizo.ie - insta

For a fabulous selection of sustainable kids fashion brands check out www.miramira.ie

3 Sandymount Green, Dublin, D04 A6P7, Ireland Ph: 01 219 6668 @miramiradublin @miramiradublin

02/08/2021 12:55

A Gin Cabinet

is just the Tonic!

At The Hidden Treasure Trove in Banbridge, Tracey upcycles and reimagines old pieces of quality furniture to create gorgeous, bespoke, vintage pieces.

With more emphasis than ever on sustainability, there is a trend for looking past mass-produced furniture when we furnish our homes.

In the past year in particular as we have spent more time at home and had a little bit more time on our hands, we have started to look at ways of re-inventing pieces of our outdated furniture.

And with previously owned, quality furniture out-lasting anything that is built these days, more and more consumers are choosing to buy restored or upcycled furniture.

The Hidden Treasure Trove is the ideal choice for the eco-conscious shopper – it is a marketplace of quality furniture that’s not only kinder to the planet, but each piece of furniture is a unique one-off design.

At her studio in Banbridge, Tracey works on the vintage pieces – she has an eye for colour and design and a passion for one-off styling and interiors. She has also worked on pieces for art galleries, wedding venues, hair salons and most recently she transformed the home of well hair stylist Shane Bennett.

This summer, Tracey has been working on a number of special commissions as people welcome back visitors to their homes.

And she has seen a massive trend for gin bars, both for inside and outside use.

A gin cabinet really can be the tonic for your home and creates a focal point for entertaining where you can have lots of fun with your very own gin bar and make those summer cocktails.

She says: “I’ve been honoured to work on some fabulous summer commissions for customers with this gorgeous weather and with the return of having guests in our homes, it’s no surprise that gin cabinets have taken off.

“I find the customer is getting braver and bolder with their choice of colour. I have been busy creating many designs including Art Deco tropical vibes and colour clashes using various techniques and skills.

“We are one of the largest stockists of Frenchic paint and the demand for this paint has taken us by storm. There are a range of stunning colours to choose from and we have seen a huge demand for Dusky Blush, Wise Old Sage, Hornblower, Plum Pudding and Victory Lane, the only limit is your imagination”.

The Hidden Treasure Trove | 33 Cavehill Lane, Annaclone, Banbridge | Tel: 07708 556737 | Email: tracey.clarke66@yahoo.com

PAGE94.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:59

UlsterTatler FOCUS ON

W

South Belfast

ith an abundant choice of beautiful parks such as Lady Dixon and Botanic Gardens, south Belfast is ideal for those looking to reconnect with nature. Not only that, the area is also great for keen shoppers and foodies due to the huge range of chic shops and eateries.

Golfers will also be spoilt for choice with the likes of Malone and Dunmurry golf clubs on offer, among many others. Key spots to visit include Ulster Museum and the Lyric Theatre.

95

PAGE95.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:59

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

MY

Remember that everything is just a phase and if it happens to be a bad time, it will soon pass.

7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland?

J: The differing landscape is incredible and the people. We are a rare breed and we’re great craic.

P: It’s such a beautiful country. Our island is stunning. I’ve travelled a fair bit and I’ve seen some really gorgeous places but nothing ever compares to home. If you’re ever having a bad day or need some inspiration, you don’t have to travel very far to be in the city or the countryside or at the beach or up a mountain!

O’HARA SISTERS

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by?

J: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

P: I have a couple! ‘Where there’s doubt, there’s no doubt’ and ‘if it was easy, everyone would do it’.

Singers and actresses, Philippa and Jolene O’Hara.

1. What do you love most about your job?

J: Meeting new people and getting to work with my sister and friends. Every day is different so it never gets monotonous.

P: There is so much to love about our job. The people we meet, the places we get to go, how fun it is and how it never gets boring. I also love that we are our own bosses. We like to be in charge!

2. What has been your career highlight to date?

J: There have been many but, selling out some of our own gigs and releasing our own original music are among the top moments.

P: Touring America and China was pretty amazing and performing at Lush! Classical with The Ulster Orchestra in front of a sold out audience of 12,000 was incredible!

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work?

J: I love films, can’t get enough of them and I love a good binge watch of a great drama series. I love my cat Oscar and love torturing her. She loves me too, I promise.

P: I love to cook, read and travel. I’m obsessed with podcasts so I listen to a lot of those. I love to learn. I have a dog called Elvis that I adore

so I enjoy taking him for big walks.

4. What is your daily routine?

J: After working late at night, I get up, do a workout, eat some brunch and prepare for the show the next evening. When I’m not working, I love to get out for a walk up the mountain.

P: Get up, drink coffee, play with Elvis, shower then the rest of the day depends on what work we have on. I don’t really have a set routine because of the nature of our work but I really enjoy that. Every day is different.

5. Do you have a specific fitness regime?

J: My job keeps me pretty active but, I try to get my 10,000 steps in a day and I do a HIIT workout every other day.

P: I try to do some sort of exercise five times a week – usually HIIT, yoga and exercise bike, but I haven’t really stuck to that throughout lockdown, I must get back at it! Our job is pretty physical so that keeps us fit.

6. Do you have any tips for staying positive during this time?

J: Be grateful for the little things in life. Every storm will pass and you will be stronger for it.

And don’t take life too seriously. None of us get out alive.

P: Surround yourself with good, kind people.

9. Who has been your biggest influence?

J: There are too many to mention but any strong, unapologetic woman is an influence in my book.

P: I wouldn’t even know where to start! We’ve always been surrounded by amazing people that have definitely helped shape who we are today.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: J: Hook, P: Jaws Band/Musician: J: McFly, P: Freddie Mercury Book: J: A Confederacy of Dunces JK Toole, P: Riding Rockets by Mike Mullane Restaurant: J: Nandos, P: EIPIC Holiday Destination: J: Las Vegas, P: New York Drink: J: Espresso Martini, P: A good pint of Guinness Meal: J: Fajitas, P: Our mum’s Sunday roast

96

PAGE96.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:00

CURRAN CONNOLLY INSURANCE BROKERS Established in South Belfast 1968

The highest quality home insurance, right on your doorstep

Specialist insurance schemes for high performance motor insurance right on your doorstep

Call our experienced team today for a free quotation on 028 9066 1938 2 Derryvolgie Avenue, Belfast BT9 6FL

COMPETITIVE PREMIUMS FOR DRIVERS 17-25

www.curcon.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (No.303546)

PAGE97.indd 1

02/08/2021 12:58

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

Freya, Ava, Amanda, Matthew and Correy McQuaid.

Josh and Becky Barr.

DRUMGLASS PARK

Niamh Bunting, Senan Kettle and Kate Bunting.

. Lauryn Watters and Louis Nolan.

With the recent heatwave, locals to the south Belfast area flocked to Drumglass Park to enjoy the sunshine with friends and family. Our photographer was out to capture the picnics, ice-cream eating and walks in the park during these glorious days of summer.

.

Anna Murray and Kate McMullan.

Aaron S. And Palma Sousa.

Jeremy Fernandez with Maia and Caia.

Steve, Martin and Sarah Sweet. Front row Rebekah Kerr, Fiance Matt Sweet and Jenny Sweet.

98

PAGE98.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:57

Abbeyfield Belfast introduce a new concept to retirement living, tailored to later life

Opening in Autumn 2021, Abbeyfield Belfast are proud to present Harberton Hall. This impressive, architecturally designed building, situated in a sought-after location in South Belfast, has been specifically designed for those wishing to live an independent, active later life.

With 32 beautifully appointed apartments to choose from, Chief Executive, Niki Molloy describes it as a place that has all the comforts of home - your own private apartment with the benefit of having everything on your doorstep and the feeling of being surrounded by community.

The main feature of this unique development is the spacious social and circulation areas – spaces in which you can relax and unwind, socialise with neighbours and friends, and enjoy a wide range of entertainment and activities.

At the heart of Harberton Hall is the restaurant where everyone comes together in the evening to enjoy fresh, local produce prepared by the chef. It also has it’s own coffee shop, garden terrace, hair salon, exercise studio, therapy room and sports lounge.

All the apartments benefit from a weekly cleaning and a personal laundry service which includes fresh bed linen. With the domestic chores taken care of, you are free to relax and enjoy life, pursuing hobbies and interests in the company of new-found friends.

Offering quality retirement apartments combined with a supportive, engaging lifestyle, all that remains for you to do is redefine how you want to live in later life.

The show apartment is now available for viewing. To book your appointment, contact Abbeyfield Belfast on 028 9038 1332.

PAGE99.indd 1

Agape Centre, 238-266 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 6GF T: 028 9038 1332 www.harbertonhall.org

03/08/2021 09:21

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

.

Grainne Finn and Kevin Ryan.

Newlyweds Nuala and Richard Mackey from Belfast after their wedding ceremony in Queen’s great hall.

BOTANIC GARDENS South Belfast is fantastic for green spaces within the city – this includes the popular Botanic Gardens, which occupies 28 acres of the south Belfast area.

You will find the park bustling with activity, especially on sunny summer days, as captured recently by our photographer, who was out and about during the recent heatwave.

Ryan and Sophie March.

.

Louise and Mark McElhatton and kids Lacie and Louie.

Eve Houston and Rhianna Hood.

Sophie Moore and Courtney Brooks.

Ceri Watters, Leah Smyth and Caitlin Lyons.

. Fiona Devlin, Lauren Armstrong and Charlie the dog.

Megan McIvor and Jasmine Ross.

Ruth Christie and Quinn G. 100

PAGE100.indd 2

02/08/2021 12:57

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

SERVING OUR CUSTOMERS FOR 35 YEARS

For your perfect Carpet

Gary White Car Sales has been established for over 35 years offering new and used cars.

The business is now one of the largest independent used car dealerships in Belfast and Northern Ireland.

The dealership not only has a long-standing reputation in car sales and car finance but also service and repairs at our onsite workshop. (Blacks Road Service Station ltd) The workshop has eight fully qualified staff and is equipped with professional facilities to give you our customer peace of mind.

The car sales team offer you a personal and professional approach, not a sales pitch, our car sales consultant has been an employee for over 25 years making him not only a qualified car technician, but also someone you can trust and come back to time and time again.

Choose from our wide range of Designs & colours

Carpet & Rug Specialist

355 Lisburn Road, Belfast Tel: 028 9068 7014

If you would like to make a booking call us on: 028 90 601913 / 07885 402577 Email: info@garywhitecarsales.com 243a UPPER LISBURN ROAD, BELFAST BT10 0LN

www.inspirationalfurnishings.co.uk 101

PAGE101.indd 3

02/08/2021 13:42

A taste of Japan in south Belfast Ulster Tatler speaks to Ben Tsang, manager of Ginza Kitchen.

How long has Ginza been established?

We established Ginza Kitchen restaurant in November 2019, around four months before the pandemic occurred and we were propelled into lockdown. The restaurant grew steadily when the first lockdown eased, with the driving force of a take away service in the surrounding area.

Ginza approached me to manage the restaurant in July 2020, and we re-opened for sit in, with the introduction of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme. For a new business in Belfast, we didn’t expect for the demand to be so high, although we had so much support! As a new business, we were and still are, very grateful for every customer who supported us. Without them, Ginza would not be here today, especially in such exceptional circumstances.

What inspired you to bring a taste of Japan to Belfast?

Ginza is one of the most famous upmarket dining and entertainment districts in Japan, from the high-end cocktails to the freshly prepared food. The founder of Ginza Kitchen has the passion to create this exceptional dining experience to all of our customers, just like being in the country itself! Therefore, we are aiming to present

Matsu Moriawase, Squid Tempura & Ginza Tonkotsu Ramen.

a taste of the Japanese culture to Belfast!

Our Head Chef serves original Japanese delights combined with skill, creativity and honesty. The finest and freshest ingredients are sourced to elevate the distinctive taste, and visual delight of Japanese cuisine, and to inspire your taste buds and sensation.

What type of food do you offer on your menu?

Our menu offers an extensive variety of dishes, with favourites such as our homemade gyozas, spring rolls and edamame beans. The traditional staple of Japan is Ramen, a soup based noodle dish. Our experienced chefs infuse the broth for 48 hours to gain maximum flavour to the dish.

This can be made vegan and vegetarian friendly, using vegetable stock, as we attempt to cater for all dietary requirements and requests.

list and a newly established local business, ‘Exotic Mixers’, with their natural based purees for our cocktails, which ensures enhancement of the flavour without artificial ingredients.

Our cocktails are Asian inspired, we use top quality ingredients and fresh fruit. Our very own Ginza cocktails, the Diamond Lotus, Chilli & Mango Margarita and Turbo Passion Fruit Daiquiri are amongst of the most popular ones which are very Asian infused with Sake (Japanese Rice Wine).

We still keep the classics on such as the French Martini and Cosmopolitan to give wider choice to the old favourites. A lot of thought goes into these unique cocktails, the Pink Geisha we source fresh Dragon Fruit and make our very own puree so maximum freshness and taste enhances the flavour. We also like to try to push the boundaries and use Wasabi in our Kamikaze. We recently

What make Ginza unique?

Gourmet Boys Brian & Mark.

Sushi is a popular choice with medium and small rolls, sashimi and our famous Matsu Moriawase Boat! This has the complete wow factor as you receive your sushi on a boat to your table. This is based on the Matsu region of China, where various parts of Asia, including Japan, traded from boats. Ginza prides our business in supporting other local suppliers in the region, including Walter Ewings and North Down Group. Our drinks list extends this policy, by supporting ‘Direct Wine Shipments’, in connection to the wine

Chilli & Mango Margarita/Pink Geisha.

102

PAGE102-103.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:42

introduced dessert cocktails onto the list and they are a must try when you visit and I can recommend the ‘White Chocolate Espresso Martini’ We also offer a ‘make at home’ sushi kit which consists of sushi rice, various vegetables, a colourful array of fish and seaweed. The usual accompaniments are soy sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi to tickle your taste buds. This is very popular as it’s a people pleaser for families and friends to have a go in the comfort of your own home after such an unsocial year. The concept was to make it fun for families during lockdown What would you say to anyone who hasn’t tried Japanese food before?

Belfast is an upcoming and elevated capital for tourism business and education, and the

Grilled Sirloin of Beef Teriyaki Curry Soba.

Ginza Kitchen Restaurant middle floor interior.

Guests Dining in.

city has rightfully adapted different cultures and languages. In a society where we love our food and trying new cuisines, trends are now set without any pre-requisites. At Ginza, we adapt typical dishes with Japanese flavour, from ribs to noodles. If you are unfamiliar with what you would like to sample, small dishes are prepared for this exact reason. We can adapt most dishes to certain requests and endeavour to meet expectations. People can be curious regarding sushi, but really it is usually a combination of vegetables, fish and rice! Healthy eating is targeted here too, as Ginza Moriawase.

we cater for vegan and vegetarians. Popular alternatives are: tofu, fish and vegetable based cuisine with no added salt or animal stock.

We were recently voted as the number one vegetarian restaurant in the city on social media, we intend to keep that status!

What do you love most about your job?

I am regarded as one of the most experienced restaurant managers in Belfast. Having worked at a few top restaurants in the city, I lead the front of house with a friendly and courteous attention to detail, to ensure my customer service is maintained at a high standard. I have adapted my own personality within Ginza due to my hard working ethics and personal touch. I make an effort with all customers, whether it is dining in or takeaway and take pride in ensuring the same level of service is given throughout.

Having learnt from a very well established restaurateur in the city, I was not fully aware of what this meant when he said, ‘you can see the value of the business’, until a few years back. Our customers are just as important as our staff to running the business, and they

work towards what our values truly mean. I enjoy every part of learning hospitality and have been known to help out in the kitchen and bar; every day is a learning curve for me as I continue to be the best I can within my role. I have enjoyed being back to hosting a busy environment, where I strive to improve and expand business in anyway possible.

Most of all, I enjoy meeting new people and being such a social, interactive person this benefits me after a strenuous year. My job brings me great satisfaction and contentment, trusting I have given customers a memorable dining experience, with the expectation they return!

245 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7EN Tel: 028 9038 0856 www.ginzabelfast.com

103

PAGE102-103.indd 3

02/08/2021 13:42

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS BOOK EXTRACT

LENNOXVALE, MALONE

The above image illustrates an early electric tram heading out of town and passing Fisherwick Presbyterian Church on Malone Road c.1910. The lack of foliage on the trees suggests a winter scene. But notice the entrance to Lennoxvale at the right-hand corner. A very close look will also reveal the presence of a man with a ladder propped up against the tree. (Courtesy Belfast Central Library from an old postcard) As we emerge from the pandemic, Aidan Campbell is due to publish another local history book in October 2021 entitled ‘East Belfast Big Houses Vol.2’. Included in the book is a chapter on Lennoxvale in south Belfast which brings back happy memories for Aidan as he attended school at Methodist College on Malone Road, not far from Lennoxvale.

Paul Harron in ‘Architects of Ulster, Young & Mackenzie’1 mentions that : ‘Once the road

to Dublin rose above the slobland to the firmer land of the plains it blossomed out into what was to become the university area, and so on to Malone (Gaelic: Maigh Luan – ‘Luan’s Plain’), increasing the value of an already upper-class parkland, dotted liberally with gentlemen’s seats, substantial country estates which were to set the pattern and tone of the buildings……. there were five Italianate villas by the firm (Young & Mackenzie) in Lennoxvale, off the Malone Road, during this decade (1870s)’.

The houses were almost ready for occupation as the Belfast News-Letter explained on Wednesday 20th September 1876: ‘Lennoxvale – To be let, one of those well-built handsome new villas, now nearly completed, within the private grounds of Lennoxvale, in the most fashionable, picturesque, and healthy suburb of Belfast, with a southern aspect, and contiguous to the Colleges, Botanic Gardens, and Tramways. This spacious residence, which has been erected on the most approved plan, contains three reception-rooms, six bedrooms, two dressingrooms, kitchen, four pantries, cloakroom, bath-room, closet etc. gas and water pipes through the house, and out-offices with modern fittings and improvement’.

Renouned architectural historian Paul Larmour notes that 5 Lennoxvale was designed by architects Young & Mackenzie in 1875: ‘A large two-story stuccoed Italianate house with hipped roofs on bracketed eaves’.

Whilst 7 Lennoxvale was designed in 1874: ‘… similar in form to no.5’ 2.

Aidan Campbell

“Once the road to Dublin rose above the slobland to the firmer land of the plains it blossomed out into what was to become the university area, and so on to Malone.”

References: 1. ‘Architects of Ulster, Young & Mackenzie’

by Paul Harron isbn 978-0-900457-80-7

2. ‘The Architectural Heritage of Malone &

The prestigious address of 5 Lennoxvale (above) as it looked probably in the 1920s.

The resident then was Robert G. Glendinning, maternal grandfather of Stephen Hillis who kindly provided this photograph. Could that be Robert G. Glendinning standing in the doorway and conversing with the chauffeur who is sitting behind the wheel of this grand car?

Stranmillis by Paul Larmour isbn 0-900-457-007

Aidan Campbell - East Belfast Big Houses Vol 2 is published in October 2021.

104

PAGE104.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:42

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

Shona D brings an eclectic and unique approach to the world of gifts to the Lisburn Road in South Belfast. The products are a great mix of local and international goodies to inspire you - full of creativity and design.

There’s an inspiring selection of art, scarves, ceramics and lighting, with the emphasis on Northern Ireland themed products.

Specialising in the Non-Surgical Face Lift At Rejuvenate Anti-Ageing Clinic Dr McNally offers the Non-Surgical Facelift. This is a mixture of minimally invasive procedures that can achieve results only previously attained by surgery but with less recovery time than surgery and generally more affordable.

The latest range of in-house designed school and golf mugs, coasters and art has proved hugely popular - you’ll find just what you’re looking for in our constantlyexpanding collection.

Dr McNallys’ advanced training and experience with premium products can help you reach your aesthetic goals. With new techniques and a synergy of products the face can be volumised, lifted, contoured and hydrated using a bespoke plan tailored for you.

www.shonad.co.uk Tel 028 9066 5448

Shona D Belfast

Call Diane to arrange a no obligation consultation on 07701062597 to discuss treatment options with Dr McNally and Nurse Laura.

shona_d_gift_shop

We offer:

Anti-Wrinkle Injections Dermal Fillers Injectable Moisturisers Medical Grade Skin Care Neck and body treatments.

COOKING THE PERFECT DINNER?

Come visit our award-winning shops for fresh local produce.

Coffey Butchers are two high class butchers and fruit shops in Finaghy and on the Lisburn Road, follow us on Facebook for all the latest products and special offers!

Our two retail shops are situated at 380 Lisburn Road – established in 1928 and at 126b Upper Lisburn Road – established 1955. Both shops offer unrivalled levels of customer service and satisfaction often envied by our competition and take great pride supplying our customers with only the finest locally sourced meat and meat products.

All our beef is hand picked and dry-aged on the bone to give it flavour, tenderness and quality guaranteed.

Coffeys 126b Upper Lisburn Rd Finaghy, BT10 0BE T: 028 9061 1982 E: finaghy@coffeybutchers.co.uk

Coffeys 380 Lisburn Rd Belfast, BT9 6GL T: 028 9066 6292 E: lisburnroad@coffeybutchers.co.uk

120a Ormeau Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 2EB 105

PAGE105.indd 3

02/08/2021 13:42

SOUTH BELFAST SPECIAL FOCUS

BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

IT’S THE TREBLE FOR TITANIC HOTEL Three is the magic number as staff at Titanic Hotel Belfast celebrate the treble, having received the overall award of Ireland’s Hotel Restaurant of the Year, the regional award of Ulster Hotel Restaurant of the Year and the Great Place to Stay Quality Award. This is the second consecutive year the hotel has been recognised by the Irish Hotels Awards winning these three awards for excellence with the ‘Wolff Grill’ restaurant being judged on the standard of food and service for which it has become renowned.

To experience award winning service and enjoy Summer on the Slipways at Titanic Hotel Belfast, with an overnight stay in a nautical themed room and a two course dinner in the Wolff Grill, followed by a Titanic sized breakfast, from £189 per room, contact the hotel on reservations@titanichotelbelfast.com or by calling +44 (0)28 9508 2000.

Showing off ‘The Emerald Isle’ collection on display at the Observatory at the Grand Central Hotel in Belfast, the tallest cocktail bar in Ireland, were from left founder and CEO of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. Jay Bradley and Paul Kane from Belfast Whiskey Week.

Limited edition ‘The Emerald Isle’ Collectable Whiskey Set from The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. featuring exclusive Celtic Fabergé Egg appeared at Belfast Whiskey Week.

The 3rd Belfast Whiskey Week Ireland’s largest Whiskey Festival, welcomed a very special guest to the festival for one day only. Making it’s first appearance in Ireland was one of the seven ‘The Emerald Isle’ Collection sets from The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. Key features include a decanter centerpiece of a 30 year old triple distilled single malt and an exclusive creation from Fabergé – a first of it’s kind Fabergé Celtic Egg. One of the sets recently sold at auction and set a new world record of $2m.

LOCAL FAVOURITE CELEBRATES 125TH YEAR IN NI Thompson’s Tea, a fourth-generation family business and blender of NI’s favourite tea, Punjana, is celebrating their 125th year in Northern Ireland.

Their story began in Belfast, in 1896, from a tea warehouse near Belfast docks when founder R. S. Thompson trained in the art of tea tasting, and soon became known for his uncompromising devotion to quality.

In the early 1900’s, the Thompson family prided themselves in importing some of the world’s finest teas into Belfast and in supplying the province’s many thousand grocery shops with luxury teas, beautifully presented in their original tea chests. This was long before the days of motorised transport, and so Punjana was delivered from the Belfast docks by horse drawn carts.

As has been the way for the last 125 years, it is only ever a member of the Thompson family who is entrusted with tasting and approving each and every blend. This is their personal assurance that the tea inside will be the same award-winning Punjana taste and flavour that Northern Ireland tea lovers have been enjoying since 1896.

“Today, as fourth generation Thompsons, we take great pride, and feel very privileged to produce over 1 million cups of Thompson’s Punjana for Northern Ireland tea lovers every single day”.

For more information visit www.thompsonstea.com 106

PAGE106.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:41

Summer Season at Margey & Bjourson Art Portrush The summer season is in full swing at the Portrush studio and gallery space of husband and wife artists Adrian Margey and Evana Bjourson. Now in its sixth year, ‘Margey & Bjourson Art’ at the junction of Mark Street and Main Street has become a firm favourite for art lovers visiting the North Coast. Adrian Margey’s eye-catching portrayals of Irish landscape, landmarks and musical traditions continue to gain importance for collectors both at home and abroad while Evana Bjourson’s dynamic wave studies and humanity pieces in particular are becoming increasingly sought-after. The artists’ Portrush Studio is open for drop-in visits each Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer with private viewings possible during the week by appointment. A wide selection of their original pieces and limited edition prints are on show. Online portfolios of each artists work are available at www.adrianmargey.com and www.evanabjoursonart.com. Telephone 07841593762 for more information.

‘Ballyholme Boats’ by Adrian Margey

‘Arcadia, Portrush’ by Adrian Margey

‘Portstewart Strand’ by Adrian Margey

‘Carrick-a-Rede Adventurers’ by Adrian Margey

‘Bicycles, Portstewart’ by Adrian Margey

‘Errigal’ by Adrian Margey

‘Portrush Transience’ by Evana Bjourson

Artist Adrian Margey

‘Surge of the Atlantic’ by Evana Bjourson

Artist Evana Bjourson

‘Surfer on Whiterocks’ by Evana Bjourson

107

PAGE107.indd 3

02/08/2021 15:24

Arts Round-up EASTSIDE ARTS FESTIVAL The EastSide Arts Festival is back on 5th-15th August! Featuring 100+ artists across more than 80 events taking place both in-person and online, enjoy the festival from the comfort of home, outdoors in person, or at a range of east Belfast locations as part of a socially distanced audience.

Supported by Principal Funder, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, funders Belfast City Council and Belfast Harbour, sponsors Translink, Connswater Shopping Centre and Retail Park, Hewitt & Gilpin and Future Screens NI, the festival will feature 80+ events across music, theatre, film, books & spoken word, walks & tours, circus & cabaret, comedy and events for children and families.

Highlights include: Anthony Toner’s new album launch; Mixed Bill Comedy Night presenting comedy talent from across Northern Ireland at Vault Artist Studios; Greenway Celebrations at Victoria Park; West Ocean String Quartet at St. Patrick’s Church to launch the new album, Atlantic Edge; Billy Boy by Rosemary Jenkinson; Mary Coughlan Sings Billie Holiday; and a host of literary events featuring well-known names including Jan Carson, Colin Hassard, Abby Oliviera, Andrea Montgomery, Susan McKay, Andrew Cunning, Sarah Moss, Louise Nealon and writers from Hedgehog Press feature – to name but a few; and for the final weekend of the festival there will be 4 nights of live outdoor music at C.S. Lewis Square.

For the full festival programme and ticket information visit www. eastsidearts.net. Follow the festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram #ESAFest21.

Musician Neil Martin, actors John Travers and Rachael McCabe.

GOLDEN THREAD GALLERY SHORTLISTED FOR AWARD The Golden Thread Gallery, Belfast, has been shortlisted for the Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Award.

Charity Kids in Museums has run a prestigious annual award for the past 15 years, recognising the most family friendly heritage sites in the UK. It is the only museum award to be judged by families.

From April to June, families across the UK voted for their favourite heritage attraction on the Kids in Museums website. A panel of museum experts then whittled down hundreds of nominations to a shortlist of 20 heritage attractions.

Golden Thread Gallery is vying against five other museums in the Best Small Museum category. The museum will now be visited by undercover family judges who will assess the museums against the Kids in Museums Manifesto. Their experiences will decide a winner for each award category and an overall winner of the Family Friendly Museum Award 2021. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.

GTG Deputy Director Sarah McAvera says: “We are absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. Golden Thread Gallery is a small organisation that punches above its weight, and making all our visitors feel welcome is very important to us.

We love inspiring and being inspired by the next generation of creative talent, and we’re so happy to finally be able to open our doors and welcome families, children and young people back to the gallery!”

Follow the Family Friendly Museum Award on Twitter by following @kidsinmuseums and #FamilyFriendlyMuseum.

WINNER OF POETRY PRIZE ANNOUNCED The winner of the 2021 Seamus Heaney First Collection Poetry Prize was announced during an awards night streamed live from No Alibis Bookshop as Arrow, by Sumita Chakraborty (published by Carcanet). The event featured readings from the shortlisted poets, all introduced by judge Stephen Sexton.

The Seamus Heaney First Collection Poetry Prize is suported by the Atlantic Philanthropies. Nick Laird, chair of this year’s judging panel said the following on the winning entry: “Arrow by Sumita Chakraborty is a marvelous collection for both the maximalist and minimalist. Here are brief lyrics, prose essays, parables, lengthy lineated epics – and all of them given life with language stretched and pummelled into shape. Dealing in myth, astronomy, autobiography, philosophy, physics and metaphysics, Chakraborty possesses a singular outlook and the tone of a prophet.”

108

PAGE108-109.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:44

Arts Diary Kellie Burch

Glass Boy

Bulado

Calamity, A Childhood of Martha Jane Cannary

CINEMAGIC FESTIVAL PLAYER Seen all the family and teen movies on Netflix? Have the children seen everything they want to on Disney+? Well this August dive into the Cinemagic Festival Player, a new platform which will offer a wealth of international cinema for children, teenagers and young adults to enjoy.

Eighteen feature films are available which focus on stories of youth portrayed in a range of genres, from live-action dramas to animations that are heart-warming, thought-provoking and inspiring. Log onto filmfestival.cinemagic.org.uk Cinemagic | Home where films can be rented and new titles release fortnightly.

Some highlights include: Glass Boy which

tells the story of Pino, a young boy suffering from haemophilia and his quest for a normal childhood; Kiwi & Strit where viewers follow a series of hilarious adventures as the pair find themselves in trouble over and over again; Bulad, a compelling tale of headstrong eleven-year-old Kenza - who is raised by her rational father and spiritual grandfather - and her search to forge her own path; bold and exciting youth drama The Club of Ugly Children (Irish Premiere) features slick production design and gutsy performances; animation adverture Calamity, A Childhood of Martha Jane Cannary; and celebrating sisterhood plus finding your inner strength, Sisters: The Summer We Found Our

Superpowers is a magically sweet film the whole family can enjoy.

The Cinemagic Festival Player is part of the feast of virtual film opportunities for young audiences to enjoy this summer. Other highlights of the virtual programme are the Career Crafts Q&A sessions featuring a host of Irish films and media talent, Film Juries, Creativity Corner Tutorials, the Young Consultants workshops, Film Boot Camp, and the Cinemagic Young Filmmaker Competition.

The full cross border programme can be viewed at https://cinemagic. org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/ CinemagicDublin_21.pdf

THE 32 LAUNCHED

The 32: An Anthology of Irish Working Class Voices, is a new book that celebrates working-class voices from across the island of Ireland, supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Edited by award-winning Belfast novelist, Paul McVeigh, this intimate and illuminating collection features memoir and essays from 32 established and emerging Irish voices. Released on 8th July 2021, The 32 features 16 published writers and 16 new voices who write about their experience of being working class in Ireland. For further information on all Arts Council funding opportunities visit www.artscouncil-ni.org Pictured (L-R) launching The 32 is writer, Marc Gregg, with writer/ editor, Paul McVeigh, and writer, Riley Johnston.

109

PAGE108-109.indd 3

02/08/2021 15:53

Arts Diary Kellie Burch

THE PORTRAIT OF PEOPLE VIP EVENING

Frans Gertenbach and Jacques Saayman.

The Portrait of People, a powerful new exhibition by South African born artist Frans Gertenbach, opened recently with a VIP evening at ArtCetera Studio, Belfast.

Sponsored by the Arts Council NI and in conjunction with Trans Radio UK and TRUK Listens, the exhibition features sixteen acrylic paintings that brings the message of the transgender person into the spotlight.

This thought-provoking exhibition displays stunning portraits set alongside handwritten text from each subject. When I spoke to Gertenbach, he said he often felt a portrait doesn’t reveal the true persona of the person captured and so he wanted his volunteers to have the opportunity to tell their story in their own words. The result is incredibly moving.

The VIP night was attended by many of the subjects from Gertenbach’s paintings, such as Simone Wilson. She explained the creation process involved her sending a photo of herself to Gertenbach. He painted a portrait of her from the photograph but after they spoke via Zoom, Frans truly saw Wilson and so he scraped his original effort and started the portrait from scratch. The result is mesmerising and when you view the collection as a whole you feel he really has captured the authentic essence of his subjects, such as Simone.

As I walked along the pink, blue and white floor, painted specifically for the exhibition, I had the chance to chat to Jacques Saayman about how important The Portrait of People is as an exhibition. It is unlike anything I have seen on display in Northern Ireland.

Gertenbach’s aim was to use an artistic environment to create an opportunity for the audience to learn, accept and celebrate the transgender person. He certainly succeeds.

The Portrait of People exhibition, which is the second exhibition I have been lucky enough to attend at ArtCetera by the immensely talented Gertenbach, is free to view but there is the opportunity to donate to TRUK Listens, a UK - based charity that operates a listening service for people who want someone to talk too.

The Portrait of People VIP evening took place on 24 July. The exhibition runs at ArtCetera Studio until 14 August 2021.

Bobbi Pickard.

Simone Wilson.

Ricki Marie Kettle.

Jason Potts and Sammie Howard.

Andrea Maynard.

Katie Neeves.

Christopher Mallon and John Taggart.

Lucy Clarke.

110

PAGE110.indd 3

03/08/2021 10:15

HISTORY ARTICLE

THE RUSSIA HOUSE

Recollections of watching history unfold in Moscow in August 1991 – an article by Belfast solicitor and man about town, David Wilson. had been built for the 1980 Olympic Games, was in the centre of a potential battleground.

Still, we had no idea about how serious the situation had become locally.

We were informed in the evening of Monday 19th October that visits to the universally appealing Moscow State Circus, St Basil’s Cathedral with its elaborately decorated onion domes, the Kremlin and a Pioneer camp in the surrounding countryside would go ahead as planned. At 7.30am the next morning, we were awoken and informed that we had to return home immediately. Startled by the news we were very shocked and disappointed as we had been looking forward so much to the once in a lifetime experiences. Even the constant drizzle and overcast sky could not dampen the spirits of the group.

David Wilson

This is the personal account of Belfast solicitor David Wilson who watched history unfold in Moscow in August 1991. At the time, David was a sixteen year old student who was part of an international student exchange visit to Russia that arrived in Moscow on 19th August 1991 as the tanks rolled into Red Square during a 58 hour military coup which resulted in the fall of the Iron Curtain.

My initial impressions of Russia were based on the poorly lit and sparsely furnished customs’ halls and the overpowering smell of tobacco which lingered everywhere. I recall being nervous as I handed over my passport and visa to a po-faced soviet official in the glass-fronted kiosk. Shops selling western goods flourished in the international arrivals lounge but once outside the airport we saw how the average Russian person lived. It was bleak apart from soviet cars in every conceivable colour filling the airport car parks. One interesting fact I learned was that in 1991 any car could be a taxi if the driver and potential customer could agree upon the fare!

We were whisked away from the airport to our hotel in downtown Moscow and it was on the way there that I spied the first of many tanks.

The roadsides on the approach to the capital city were speckled with soldiers sitting on the damp grass verges. We thought that this must be a normal sight in Russia and did not think then that it was in anyway connected to the impending military coup. It was not until we reached the hotel that we realised President Gorbachev was either being held in the Crimea or he was dead and most of the government were ill from “political flu”. Our hotel, which

“Our hotel, which had been built for the 1980 Olympic Games, was in the centre of a potential battleground. Still, we had no idea about how serious the situation had become locally.”

Moscow battleground which we initially did by bus but then as transport through the city became more difficult we proceeded on foot.

We saw the Theatrical Square, The Bolshoi Ballet and the then only McDonalds fast food outlet in the Eastern Hemisphere. We visited the Exhibition of Economic Achievement of the USSR, a vast complex housing dozens of magnificently ornate buildings informing locals and tourists alike how wonderful the Soviet Union was. It made the bread queues that existed then seem like a mere tale of myth!

We toured on the underground and with passports and visas in hand we were allowed access to the Trinity Gate area where we saw the trouble in Red Square at first hand. A row of tanks barricaded Manezh Square. We left after the camera shy soldiers became agitated by the flash photography. By that stage in life I had already witnessed an Arab/Israeli clash in Jerusalem on my eighth birthday and the fact that I grew up during the Troubles here meant that I was used to seeing guns on the street. In retrospect, although the situation on the ground was tense, it could have been a whole lot worse.

Just three days after it began, the August coup against Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev collapsed. Despite his success in avoiding removal from office, Gorbachev’s days in power were numbered and Yeltsin became more prominent. The Soviet Union would soon cease to exist as a nation. I have not returned to Russia since 1991 but recall being taken aback by the hospitality and kindness shown to me and to the group as a whole and although the trip was cut short it was amazing to see what is now considered to be a historical world event unfold before my eyes and indeed be able to say I was there when the iron curtain fell.

David Wilson

In Moscow, events were moving fast and although we were assured by our Russian hosts that we were perfectly safe, our parents at home took a decision on the evening of Monday 19th August that with such uncertainties existing, and with regard to the speed of events, the only feasible option open at the time was an early return.

The upsurge in “political illnesses” made the Muscovites even more uneasy. Not only had their President vanished but his allies virtually ceased to exist. A return to the days of hard-line Communism would have been unthinkable. Our guides, Alexandria, Svetlana and Sergei kept telling us that we were in Moscow at a terrible time. Little did they know then what the outcome would be. As no flights could be booked on Tuesday 20th August we had a day of “sightseeing” in the 111

PAGE111.indd 3

02/08/2021 15:27

PaybyFinance

Buy Now Pay Later in store and online for orders over £250

Sofas, beds & dining sets in stock and ready for immediate delivery

Banbridge - Connswater - Dundalk - Lisburn - Newry - Newtownabbey - Newtownards - Omagh - Portadown - Strabane - Yorkgate

www.houseproudfurnishings.com PAGE112.indd 1

02/08/2021 15:29

UT Living

MANAGE | MAINTAIN | MAXIMISE

Future Proof Your Property At AMD, we treat each client differently, to give them each the most precise, ‘fit for the future’ service.

Our capabilities include:

• Property Management & Maintenance • Tenant find only & Fully Managed Services • Residential Property Lettings

make property ownership seas le it should be.

028 8751 0766

Yearly Property management fee for only

£348 incl VAT*

JA Ov NUA Contact eAMD R r Property Management 5today, 0% Yand SAlet us show you how we of canLE f

enquiries@amdproperty.co

N

O cte W d i ON tem s

www.amdproperty.co

Excludes HMO Properties

Arches Lighting Centre Ltd 16-22 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3EL T: 028 9047 1849 www.archeslightingcentre.co.uk

113

PAGE113.indd 3

02/08/2021 13:48

UT Living

PLAN AHEAD

First things first, ask yourself how you intend to use the room. What type of cooking do you do, how many people are in the household, what styles do you like? Then be sure to see what’s available, designing a kitchen is rarely a routine thing to do so few people know what they want before the exploration and research start.

Different appliances will let you design the room in different ways.

Range cookers will use wall space while downdraft hobs can be placed anywhere on the worktop.

Different styles of kitchen will affect what layout you can achieve.

Traditional styles may not suit a raised oven for example.

Figure out where your priorities lie - do you want to put more of your budget into the solid worktops, or would you rather upgrade the cabinetry or appliances?

The first visit to the Alwood showroom can be exciting! There is usually something new or different that you may not have considered or ever heard about. Often you will leave with more ideas to think about than before you come in!

Take your time, enjoy the design stage, and don’t worry. They’ll not let you get it wrong.

For more information visit www.alwoodkitchens.com

JACKSONS OF SAINTFIELD & MOIRA

Jacksons of Saintfield T. 028 9751 1429 Also at 110 Main Street, Moira T. 028 9261 3660

114

PAGE114.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:48

... for busy people who want the convenience of choosing carpet from the comfort of their own home

Inside the mobile showroom

A spacious purpose built mobile showroom Mark McCallister Carpets has been supplying and fitting carpet throughout Northern Ireland for over 20 years. The unique service we provide is ideal for busy people who want the convenience of choosing carpet from the comfort of their own home.

lifestyle, Mark or Lisa will visit your home with the showroom, measure up the various areas and provide a free consultation on carpet type, weight, fibre, texture and colour. Once you place your order, the carpet will usually be fitted within 7 - 10 days.

Carpet isn’t something that can be bought online…you want to touch it, feel it and see it under the lighting in your home, along with your colour scheme and furnishings. For most people a new carpet is a major investment and something which will not be changed again for some time, so it is important to get it right. To help you make the right choice to suit your interior scheme and

In line with the shift towards warmer neutrals and textured carpets, we carry hundreds of samples of quality British wool and easy clean synthetic carpets, handpicked to suit traditional and contemporary schemes. Our high standards and attention to detail have led us to develop a strong relationship with private home owners, interior designers and property developers.

To arrange a FREE home visit or to find out more: Tel: 07818 094 040 Email: hello@carpetni.com PAGE115.indd 1

02/08/2021 13:49

LD

KITCHENS & SLIDING DOORS T: 07850 648963

FSB Small Business Awards - Northern Ireland Winner

Self employed sole trader of the year PAGE116.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:52

ULSTER TATLER FEATURE

MAKE A SPLASH

Image courtesy of Ceco www.cecoproducts.com

S

mart technology is increasingly becoming a major component of everyday living at home, and the bathroom is no exception to this. Current trends are pointed towards elevating and building character in bathrooms, whether it is through adding digital technology to showers, or installing self-cleaning toilets. Mirrors with built-in LED lighting and motion detecting faucets are also gaining popularity on the market.

Smart technology systems now allow for customised showers and baths, for example, temperature-controlled showers mean that your showering experience is more reliable, safe and less time-consuming. As well as this, having Bluetooth technology integrated into shower heads means that you can sing along to your favourite songs without much noise pollution.

Baths are becoming smarter and more functional too, with the introduction of shower hoses that can be tucked away into the rim of the bath tub when they are not needed – this reduces clutter and makes the bathroom a more attractive space.

Toilets are known for having one main function, yet the addition of smart, innovative features are increasing its functionality, particularly for those with mobility issues. Japanese-style toilets are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with hygiene mechanisms and motion sensor flushes being only a few of their ingenious features. Rimless toilets are also making their mark, as their smoother shape benefits from a more effective cleaning process when flushed, as well as dispelling any build-up of bacteria which usually finds its home under the rim.

In this feature, we take a look at how you can elevate your bathroom beyond its simple functionality and turn it into a more modern space. With the arrival of new trends to the industry, now is the perfect time to create an inviting and attractive space within your home.

PAGE117.indd 3

02/08/2021 13:52

Sykes - TATLER Ad Aug21.qxp_Layout 1 02/08/2021 15:44 Page 1

SUPPLY + FIT SUPPLY - WHITEABBEY + FIT - WHITEABBEY - FEATURING -GESSI FEATURING GESSI

Sykes - TATLER Ad Aug21.qxp_Layout 1 02/08/2021 15:44 Page 1

BATHRmS, KITcHENS & TILES

more more Individuality.

Individuality.

BATHRmS, KITcHENS & TILES

GET IN TUcH Tel: 028 9077 0044 www.sykesinteriors.com

SHWRm 38 Duncrue Crescent Belfast BT3 9BW

PEN Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm Saturday: 9am-12.30pm

GET IN TUcH Tel: 028 9077 0044 www.sykesinteriors.com

SHWRm 38 Duncrue Crescent Belfast BT3 9BW

PEN Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm Saturday: 9am-12.30pm

PAGE118.indd 1

02/08/2021 16:16

Uniquely you Showrooms Antrim Springfarm Ind Estate BT41 4NT T 028 9448 1360

Belfast Boucher 4 Balmoral Road BT12 6QA T 028 9055 1400

Cookstown Sandholes Road BT80 9AR T 028 8676 9550

Bangor 70 Balloo Road BT19 7PG T 028 9127 8930

Coleraine 5 Loguestown Ind Estate BT52 2NS T 028 7034 5750

Eglinton 15 Killylane Road BT47 3DW T 028 7181 2582

Larne 52 Circular Road BT40 3AB T 028 2826 3050

watershedbathrooms.com

Watershed.indd 4

25/06/2021 16:34

MAKE A

SPLASH A STUNNING TILE COLLECTION McCall’s showrooms in Clough, Portadown and Carryduff have an extensive range of bathrooms on display from an array of leading brands. The fabulous bathrooms are of course complimented by a stunning tile collection.

McCall Tiles & Bathrooms offer a vast selection of luxury imported floor, wall, kitchen and bathroom tiles. Under tile heating is also available along with a wide range of laminate, engineered and solid wooden flooring. The wide range of mirrors, cabinets and bathroom accessories on display will complete your bathroom makeover.

The staff’s extensive product knowledge, excellent customer service and attention to detail have made J & W McCall Supplies an awardwinning, leading supplier in Ireland. Visit one of the showrooms today to experience innovative, unique tiles and bathrooms to suit all tastes and budgets. Why not take advantage of the free 3D design service to help you bring your ideas together.

For enquiries or to make an appointment please call: 02844 811999 or email info@jwmccall.com.

GET THE LOOK 1

2

3 SUPPLY ONLY AND FIT WITH ALL TOP BRAND SUPPLIERS Unit 2D Pennyburn Industrial Estate Derry BT48 0LU Ocean.sales@hotmail.com 028 7141 4657

1. Ceco: www. cecoproducts.com 2. Next: www.next.co.uk 3. Soaks: www.soaksbathrooms.com 120

PAGE120.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:54

D

Fi

ow nd np us a t in ri c k

Quality, style and innovation is at the heart of everything we do

Excellent quality, extraordinary value With over 20 years of experience in the tiling industry, we bring the latest design trends to life from traditional and classic through contemporary and modern to unique and industrial.

We offer an extensive range of the highest quality Italian and Spanish porcelain wall and floor tiles to suit all purposes and locations, tastes and budgets - for bathrooms and kitchens, domestic and commercial premises.

fo C no r n O va ew U N ti on bu T i s! ld s

Our elegant and luxurious tile collections have been hand-picked by our team of professional designers for the ultimate in quality and aesthetic appeal - at the most competitive prices.

an

d

re

ile

%

lt

al

20

We would love to hear from you!

on

Email info@exquisite-tiles.com, call us on 028 2858 0360, browse online at www.exquisite-tiles.com or visit our stylish showroom at Unit 1, Cloonagh Road, Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 6LJ

D I s S

We are passionate about tiles

THE PERFECT VENUE FOR WEDDINGS The Wedding Pavilion at The Rosspark Hotel seats up to 120 guests and comes with a host of the latest technology. In fact, couples have the option to record their wedding service and are also able to stream the wedding service live worldwide to those who cannot attend the wedding.

The Wedding Pavilion is set in the wooded grounds of the hotel and has lots of glazing bringing in natural daylight, providing different vistas of the lush, year round green and tranquil gardens. There is also a feature window showcasing one of the oldest trees on the property.

The pavilion interior has been designed in a neutral theme with light wood upholstered pews, cream aisle carpet and beautiful light fittings. With underfloor heating to keep you and your guests warm in autumn/winter and ventilation to keep you cool on hot summer days.

The Rosspark Hotel has just unveiled its luxurious new Garden Lounge, which is the result of major renovation work during lockdown, which saw the former conference room transformed into a welcoming space that is perfect for a champagne reception or a musical interlude during the course of your big day.

The Garden Lounge is a private dedicated area with its own bar and it’s full of relaxing seats and sofas for guests to sink into as they enjoy a welcoming cocktail and listen to a band or singer after arriving at your reception.

The Garden Lounge commands leafy views of the outside gardens and, thanks to the huge new windows, is flooded with natural light, making it the perfect spot for wedding photographs – an absolute godsend when it’s rainy outside.

The Rosspark Hotel are still proud to only host one wedding per day.

The recently refurbished Ross Suite can provide facilities for weddings up to 220 guests with a dedicated master of ceremonies, a spectacular three-ring crystal chandelier, views to the beautiful gardens and fairy light back drops.

For more information visit www.rosspark.com 122

PAGE122.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:54

SOCIETY

WEDDINGS

LO LO CK VE DO IN W N

Allen & Mawhinney Miss Stephanie Allen, daughter of Fiona and Jim Allen from Maghaberry, married Neil Mawhinney, son of Iris and Derek Mawhinney from Dromore. The wedding took place on 25th June at Corick House Hotel.

Photography by Jervis Wedding Photography.

123

PAGE123.indd 1

02/08/2021 13:55

IN N E W V O O D L K C O L

SOCIETY

WEDDINGS Palmer & McBurney The new Mr & Mrs McBurney were married on October 8th at the beautiful Corick House Hotel. Restrictions certainly didn’t dampen Kristen and Ryan’s big day as they celebrated with friends and family. Stunning autumnal flowers by Imagine Flowers Hillsborough.

Kristen’s dress was from Petticoat Lane Hillsborough, with the men in suits from Suitor Bros. Make up by Rebecca Saulters, hair by DaniBelle Wedding hair.

Photography by Angel Photography.

124

PAGE124.indd 1

02/08/2021 13:55

PAGE125.indd 1

02/08/2021 13:56

THE SCENE

.

Birthday boy Gavin Neill with Claire, Florence and Scarlett.

.

Tom and Sandra Neill, Claire and Gavin with daughters Florence and Scarlett, Mark Neill and Jack.

Brothers Mark and Gavin.

.Christine and David Marks.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS Gavin Neill from Aghalee recently celebrated his 40th birthday with family and friends. The family celebrated with a garden party in the summer sunshine.

Florence, Jack, Scarlett and Ruby.

.

Lucy and Peter Murray.

Sandra and Tom Neill.

Lynsey Foster, Geoff Baird and Julie Baird.

Scarlett and best friend Ruby.

126

PAGE126.indd 4

02/08/2021 14:18

Celebrating

27 years

Viscount Restaurant

Viscounts Restaurant in Dungannon, is celebrating 27 years in business as one of the best-loved restaurants in the province, preparing great food with locally sourced ingredients.

Set in a former Church Hall, which is over 100 years old, the Cathedral-style wooden ceiling and feature gothic-type stained glass window gives a wonderful medieval ambience to the interior of this listed building.

With the success of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, Viscounts are the first outlet in Northern Ireland to continue the scheme into the month of September.

Opening Hours:

During your visit you can check out our newly renovated bar, ‘The Living Room’.

Wednesday & Thursday 12noon-8pm / Friday 4pm-8pm Saturday 4pm-9pm / Sunday 12noon - 8pm Telephone bookings only on 028 8775 3800

(Terms & Conditions apply – max £10pp, offer will include soft drinks and alcohol, offer available Wednesdays and Thursdays only 12noon-8pm).

1 0 N o r t h l a n d R ow D u n g a n n o n B T 7 1 6 A P w w w.v i s c o u n t s r e s t a u ra n t .c o. u k PAGE127.indd 3

02/08/2021 14:21

HONOURS

Royally Rewarded This month Ulster Tatler features a selection of photographs from those members of the community recognised in the Birthday Honours.

LYNSEY AGNEW BEM Miss Lynsey Anne Agnew was awarded the Order of the British Empire for services to the Lisburn Foodbank, especially during the Covid-19 crisis.

“We started Lisburn Foodbank in 2013 and I have been involved since the very beginning discussions about offering this support in our community. As we became busier each year I eventually gave up my job to come on board full time at LCC Community Trust. We knew we needed to do more and as we explored our options we have now grown into a community organisation that offers support across a range of projects including; Lisburn Foodbank, Kickstart Social Supermarket, More than Food workshops and volunteering opportunities and our Wellbeing projects. We offer emergency food provision, longer term food support, help with budgeting and household management, income maximisation and debt advice.

We also use a holistic approach to not only look at practical tools to improving someone’s situation but also to support their mental and emotional wellbeing through a mixture of group work and one-toone coaching.

In March 2020 we began to see a steep increase in demand for our services as news of the pandemic broke. By mid April we had jumped from supporting approximately 100 families per week to 400 per week. We had to completely restructure our model for service delivery to accommodate all the restrictions and keep our volunteers safe, while still being able to support the most vulnerable in our community. With our amazing team of staff and volunteers, and the support of our local community, we were able to continue this vital service, which many described as a lifeline.”

THOMAS HAIGHTON BEM Mr Thomas David Haighton was awarded the Order of the British Empire for services to Adults with Learning and Physical Disabilities.

“I am both honoured and humbled to receive a British Empire Medal for services to people with a Learning Disability. I am privileged to work with adults with a learning disability, and to be honest I get so much more from them than they do me. I have a real passion for the work I do and will continue to advocate for those I care for. We have come so far in raising awareness for people with a learning disability and ensuring they are seen as valued members of our society, but there is a lot more work to be done.

Unfortunately the pandemic has seen people with a learning disability lose out on so much and become isolated with little or nothing to do, not to mention the additional pressures put on parents and carers. Now we are starting to come out the other side of the pandemic, I will ensure people with a learning disability

once again have their voices heard and rights upheld.

At the age of 13 I started helping the Volunteers in Carrickfergus Junior Gateway. I continued this and became a volunteer myself in later years.

Carrickfergus Senior Gateway were looking volunteers and I joined to help out at the age of 17; I became Gateway Leader in 2005 to present day. My experiences with Gateway led me to a career in Learning Disability and at the age of 16 I started working in Castleview Private Nursing Home; 3 years later I moved to the Northern Health and Social Care Trust as a Support Worker in Hawthorns Adult Centre. I have worked my way up through the years and am now Registered Manager of Hawthorns. My experience and knowledge gained have enabled me to make positive changes for those with a learning disability and one of my main highlights was Carrickfergus Senior Gateway hosting the first every Learning Disability Pride event held in Carrickfergus in 2017. This was a day that brought

thousands of people together to support those with a learning disability and to show that they are valued members of society.

I take great pride in what I do and in everything I am involved with, but I couldn’t do all this on my own; my biggest support comes from my amazing family and also from those that work alongside me in all Learning Disability Services. I am pleased to accept this award on behalf of all of them.

128

PAGE128.indd 2

02/08/2021 13:57

ni

advice

the independent advice network

Do you need help to manage your Debt?

The Independent Advice Network provides free advice & information on the following:

• Free and confidential tailored debt advice • Budgeting advice • Solutions to deal with the debt • Help negotiating with creditors on your behalf

Contact our FREEPHONE helpline to speak to an adviser

0800 915 4604 Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Email:

advice@adviceni.net

For further information or to find your local advice centre visit www.adviceni.net @AdviceNI

PAGE129.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:26

THE SCENE

Urbi Banerjee (Aecom) , Robin Swann and Deepika Gupta (Vice President Citi Bank NI).

Sanjay Ghosh, founder of ImageNation NI and organiser of the thanksgiving event and Belfast Lord Mayor, Kate Nicholl.

THANK YOU NORTHERN IRELAND Belfast-based Indian community group ‘ImageNation NI’, hosted an event at Sandy Row Community Centre, with special guests Health Minister, Robin Swann and Belfast Lord Mayor, Kate Nicholl. The event was organised to thank Northern Ireland for providing essential oxygen generators to India as part of a Covid-19 relief effort. The community also extended their thanks to East Derry MLA Claire Sugden, who mediated the concerns from the Indian community to the Department of Health.

Robin Swann, MBE Bobby Rao (Irish cricketer) and Kate Nicholl (Lord Mayor).

FOSTER CARERS URGENTLY NEEDED IN NORTHERN IRELAND Action for Children have made an urgent call for potential foster carers to come forward in Northern Ireland.

Avery Bowser, Fostering Services Manager, explained: “The need is very great in Northern Ireland at the moment but the numbers coming forward have been too small.

“We know that there are lots of people who have the space in their home to foster but they are often put off by myths about fostering. They think it’s only for certain types of people.

“We need people from different backgrounds and communities to become foster carers because our children are all so different.

“At Action for Children we provide foster families that have the warmth and stability that enable children to cope with the changes that life brings them. We do that by recruiting ordinary people, from all walks of life, who do something extraordinary – become a foster carer.”

Avery is asking readers to think about fostering or encourage someone else who could foster.

“All kinds of people can foster. You have to be over 21, have a spare room, the ability to work with children and have the time in your life to give.

“So please give our friendly fostering team a call. The need in Belfast is very urgent and I am appealing for your help.”

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer or would like to find out more, please contact Action for Children’s fostering team on 028 9046 0500 or email fostercareni@actionforchildren.org.uk 130

PAGE130.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:31

THE SCENE

Former QUB Mechanical Engineering colleagues Professor Robert Fleck, Doctor Robert Kee and Ray McCullough BEM are reunited at the Celebration Day.

Author Paul McClean and Ray McCullough BEM present two copies of the book ‘Ray McCullough the Dromara Destroyer’ to QUB Chief Librarian Irene Bittles.

MOTORCYCLING LEGEND Dromara man, Ray McCullough, who won an incredible 175 races between 1960 and 1982, was recognised in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours list, when he was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM), for his services to motorcycling. As chief technician, Ray worked for 38 years in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at QUB alongside Professor Gordon Blair and Professor Robert Fleck on cutting edge engine development with highprofile manufacturer Yamaha. A DVD on his racing career entitled ‘Ray McCullough Held in Admiration’ is raising vital funds for the Children’s Kidney Fund NI Charity. Photos by Rowland White, David McClean and Paul McClean.

. Motorcycle racing greats Trevor Steele, MotoGP star Jeremy McWilliams, Denis Todd and Johnny Rea Senior attended to pay tribute to local hero Ray McCullough BEM.

Ray winning at the Carrowdore 100 in 1980.

zzzz Destroyers supporters club founder member David Dromara Wallace with Ray McCullough BEM at the Queens event.

Former Moto GP star Jeremy McWilliams and his wife Jill pictured with Ray McCullough BEM.

131

PAGE131.indd 3

02/08/2021 14:25

Queen’s University Class of 2021 Graduation celebrations at Queen’s University Belfast are taking place virtually this summer.

In this edition we shine a light on students and their success stories as they graduate during changed times.

Aislinn McAleenan Aislinn McAleenan is graduating with a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD opportunity to continue developing a robot which could revolutionise eye surgery.

Aislinn’s journey at Queen’s started five years ago when she completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She is now graduating with a first-class honours MEng in Mechanical Engineering.

Last year, Aislinn – who is from Newry and Mourne – created an actuator for robotic eye surgery. Starting in October, Aislinn will be carrying on her work on the robot as part of a PhD at Queen’s.

She says: “During my final year I developed a lowcost actuator design which allows for a surgical tool to be translated and rotated during eye surgery with increased accuracy. I hope that it will help to make eye surgery more readily available for patients globally, especially those in developing countries.

“Another project of mine was an idea for an electrical, wearable device which alleviates pain by sending pulses of mild electrical current to the painful area on the body. My idea for the pain management device was shortlisted for ‘What’s The Big Idea’ competition.”

During her Master’s, Aislinn also took part in the Women in Leadership Programme with the William J. Clinton Leadership Institute.

Speaking about her journey as a Queen’s student, Aislinn comments: “I have had so many opportunities to explore all that STEM has to offer and it has been very exciting. My favourite memory is when I represented the University at the International Joint Design Workshop at Tianjin University, China. This was a fantastic experience for me to improve my design skills and meet other students from all over the world.

Anita Dennison Anita Dennison rom Newry, Co Down, will celebrate graduating from Queen’s University Belfast for the second time with a degree in social work. Anita was inspired to undertake her degree in social work due to her past experiences of being bullied at secondary school. She said: “I was bullied at secondary school, despite the great support I received from my peers and teaching staff. The cyberbullying was the worst as it was anonymous, and it impacted my confidence the most because I knew it could have been anyone.” Brave Anita decided to create an anti-bully social media campaign in 2012 which she started on Twitter and her own website to share her experience and help others going through what she did. She explained: “I submitted the campaign to my school’s anti-bullying competition and won. I never would have imagined how many people it would have helped, having young people and parents alike commenting and asking for support from around the world. It has been an honour being able to share my story through various means, including a TEDx talk and getting to share the stage with amazing people such as current mental health champion, Professor Siobhan O’Neill. Anita earned several awards for her anti-bullying campaign including the Princess Diana Award, the Spirit of NI Overcoming Adversity Award, and the Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister. She said: “I didn’t start the campaign for recognition, I did it as an outlet to help myself and others. However, I was honoured and fortunate enough to be nominated and win these awards which I will never forget. To be recognised was incredibly touching.”

Bogdan Golumbeanu Bogdan Golumbeanu will be awarded a First Class Honours (BSc Hons) Economics with Finance from Queen’s Management School. Bogdan Golumbeanu (aged 24) from Bucharest in Romania, came to Queen’s University Belfast after studying Psychology for two years at the University of Bucharest.

He said: “Having discovered that I wanted something more quantitative, I decided that pursuing a career in finance was the best option for me. “Being at one of the top UK universities, I wanted to make the best out of my experience at Queen’s. I applied to different programmes and experiences to build up my CV and improve my network. “I took part in and was CEO in my final year of the Queen’s Student Manged Fund (QSMF); the Belfast Enterprise Academy; the Queen’s Global Leadership Programme, and the Inspiring Leaders Programme, for which I was awarded the ‘Highly Commended Graduate of the Year’ award for the way in which I improved the activity in the QSMF. At the end of my first year, I was awarded the ‘City Scholarship’, where I travelled to London and worked for a week at Evercore, a leading private equity boutique in Mayfair. During his studies, Bogdan co-founded LightStone Insights, the fastestgrowing financial platform that encourages underrepresented students to consider a career in finance.

He explained: “The idea for LightStone came off the back of applying for jobs as I faced the challenges of psychometric tests, interviews and rejections.

I thought it would be a great idea to help other students facing the same problems. Since then, we have quickly grown to have an international team of 15 talented students and have helped over 1,000 students in their careers while producing research content about global financial markets.”

132

PAGE132-133.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:25

Alanna Morrison Alanna Morrison, 21, from Banbridge graduates with a BSc Degree in Microbiology from the School of Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast.

Alanna has played a crucial role in Northern Ireland over the past year in local efforts to tackle the current pandemic. She began working at Randox at the start of the pandemic to carry out Covid-19 bioassays, the biochemical tests that determine if a swab sample is positive or negative for SARSCoV-2 virus.

She said: “The testing process was intense as I would be doing 96 tests at a time. On my first day in the lab, I thought it would take me a year to be able to do the tests on that scale smoothly, but I was able to reach that level after three days.

“To meet the demand for testing, I worked 12-hour days and night shifts. It was incredibly difficult and pressured, but a great experience and very memorable, I have made great friends while working in the labs.

“The responsibility was heavy for the role, as for every sample, there was a person on the other end who was likely very worried about their result. I felt a great sense of purpose as this role was key in the pandemic response and I was able to use the skills and knowledge I had gained from being a student at Queen’s to help society through this worrying time.”

Alanna has also had to overcome serious illness to get to where she is today, having dealt with misdiagnosed gallbladder disease that progressed and controlled her life for two years.

“I felt University wasn’t an option for me, but I turned it around during my A levels, got into Queen’s University and have now completed my degree and I’m looking forward to graduating.”

Alison McAllen and Emma McAllen Sisters Alison (28) and Emma McAllen (23) from Cookstown both graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Medicine from the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast. Alison started Queen’s back in 2011 and completed a Master of Science degree in Mathematics before pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor. She said: “When I was completing my Mathematics degree, I realised my true passion was to become a doctor. I was lucky enough to be able to share this experience with my sister Emma who was also beginning her journey at Queen’s to become a doctor.

“Some of our highlights at Queen’s are the times we travelled to Belfast on a Sunday night together, being able to practice our OSCEs with each other which helped us prepare for the clinical and communication aspects of becoming a doctor and helping each other study for our exams.

“We enjoyed being in the same lectures, and because of our surnames, we were in the same tutorial groups at Queen’s. It was fantastic to be able to share our experiences of becoming doctors together. I am so proud of us both graduating today.”

Both Alison and Emma are excited to begin work this August in Belfast City Hospital as junior doctors. Alison is starting in nephrology while Emma will start working in medical oncology.

Elizabeth Buick Elizabeth Buick graduates with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Adult Nursing from Queen’s University Belfast.

Overcoming adversity and with great determination, it has taken Elizabeth over seven years to get to where she is today.

She said: “At times I cannot believe it, as I was not very academic at school and always thought of myself as “not very smart”. I left school with two GCSEs and as the saying goes, if I can do it anyone can!

“I did my access course while working part time in Hazelwood Integrated College and although there were times I wanted to give up, I kept going. It was tough at times especially as I have four children, but I kept at it in the hope that I would be lucky enough to get into Queen’s University.”

Elizabeth was successful at the mini multi-interviews and couldn’t wait to start her course in September 2016.

However, sadly this was not to be as Elizabeth had to defer for two years following a breast cancer diagnosis just two weeks before starting. She also contracted sepsis during her treatment which was life-threatening.

“I had my surgery and treatment in Belfast City Hospital and to this day I am so grateful to them for the care and treatment I received. They are really dedicated, and I am so lucky to have been looked after by them. They saved my life not just once, but twice, and to this day I am truly grateful.

“The thing that kept me going throughout the treatment was that I was going to start a degree in nursing, and this gave me a focus and a goal.

I deferred for two years and the support I received while I was ill from Queen’s staff, friends and family was amazing. I am also grateful for the support from my wonderful family and friends and everyone at Hazelwood and Whitehouse Presbyterian Church.”

On graduating, she said: “I never thought that I was good enough to be seated in a lecture hall and now here I am about to graduate as a nurse.

“Life has many ups and downs but the people we get to meet on those journeys really help us to become the people we are today. I still have lots to learn and as they say in nursing, every day is a learning day.

“I hope my story inspires other people out there who need to know that they can do this too.”

133

PAGE132-133.indd 3

02/08/2021 14:25

THE SCENE

Law graduates Aimee Fullen and Rosie Rothwell.

QUB GRADUATIONS Queen’s University will be holding virtual graduations this year, but graduating students still had the opportunity to hire gowns for pictures outside the famous Lanyon building at Queen’s.

With the glorious weather, family and friends were able to create some memorbale photo opportunities to mark this special milestone.

Michaela Colgan (BSc Business Management) pictured with her sisters Sinead and Rachel, and mum Rosemary from County Down.

.Caitlin Cullen (BA History) with sister Meabh Cullen.

Corrie Doran (BSc Geography) with family Melissa, Rich and Tracy from Bangor.

. Medicine graduate Emma Kernohan

from Ballymena with brother Angus.

Medicine graduates Helen Graham, Rebecca Quinn, Megan McKenna and Katie Steele.

David Irvine and daughter Lois Irvine (BSc Economics) from Ballymoney.

Graduate Eoin Byrne (BSc Physics) from County Tyrone with family Katie, Edel, Josephine Quinn, Sean, Liam and Aoife Byrne.

134

PAGE134-137.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:29

THE SCENE

.

Medicine graduate Ellen McCullagh with family left-right Maura, Darragh, Peter, Tomas McCarron and sisters Anna and Grace from Tyrone.

Sinead Burns and daughter Caitlin Burns from Banbridge.

BSc Biological Science graduates Rose Agnew, Ryan Millar and Heather Cross.

Housemates graduating in Medicine Kate McCooe, Erin O’Kane and Ciara Casey.

Rhys Thompson (BSc Psycology) and Chloe McCormick.

Carly McAlister (BA Criminology & Sociology) with grandad Tommy Patterson.

Aoibhinn Hume (BA with Irish) from Donegal with Marie Hume.

Law graduate Aoife Jones and boyfriend James Jordan (BSc Biological Science).

QUB 3rd year student Leo Li with international business Masters graduate Alicia Ruan.

Ryan Lynn, Jo Lillie, Miranda McConnell and Gareth Gordon gaining BSc (Computer Science).

135

PAGE134-137.indd 3

02/08/2021 14:29

THE SCENE

.

Thomas Thompson celebrates his Phd Pharmacy graduation.

Gareth McCormac (BEng Aerospace Engineering) with family Luca, Gemma and Esme from Moira.

Aaron McLean gaining BSc first class honours (Actuarial science) with parents Julie Ann and Barry from Antrim.

.

St Mary’s teaching graduates Julie Bogan, Alice Soult, James McCartan and Eimear Doyle.

Theology graduate Lauren Linton with family left-right Steph and Dexter, parents David and Caroline and grandparents Gerry and Bert Spence.

. Dominik Seiler with Medicine graduate Michelle Ryan from County Cork.

.

Caitlin Toye (BSc maths, stats and operational research). With boyfriend Josh Graham.

Engineering graduate Josh Harbinson from Holywood with parents Jeremy and Cheryl and girlfriend Sophie Keown.

136

PAGE134-137.indd 4

02/08/2021 14:29

THE SCENE

. Pharmacy graduate Sarah Wallace with family Brian, Chloe, Emily and Linda McStea.

Law graduates Kate McCandless and Rachel McCullough.

Lydia Quinn (BEng Computer Science) with grandmum Margaret O’Hanlon from Tyrone.

Corinna Clegg (BA English & Spanish) and boyfriend Cameron McDonald (BSc Finance).

Katie Quinn (BSc Human Biology) and Sara Keenan (BA English & Creative Writing).

. Anna Coulter (BA English & Linguistics) with

parents Heather and Harry from Carrickfergus.

Medicine graduates Graham, Rebecca Quinn, Rachel Kearney (Early teachingHelen studies) Megan and&Katie and Sé Irwin (BScMcKenna Computing IT). Steele.

First class honours graduate Rory Campbell BSc Finance) with parents Frances and Conor.

137

PAGE134-137.indd 5

02/08/2021 14:29

UlsterTatler FOCUS ON

W

Back to school

ith summer sadly coming to an end and autumn just around the corner, the preparations for the new school term begin. Ulster Tatler has put together a selection of essentials for helping your kids get back to school. The top things to consider before the new school term begins is buying new uniform, stationary and booking ahead for tutors and extracurricular clubs.

TUTORTOO – A FAMILY OF LEARNERS MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER The Tutortoo family has been working with students and parents across Northern Ireland since Spring 2020. They provide educational guidance to families with students at every age, stage and ability level.

Post-primary teachers, Trevor and Jenine Jamison, have gathered a team of like-minded educators who share their vision for individualised teaching and learning. This team takes time to explore the nuances of a student’s learning needs, to identify personal learning styles while considering the student’s interests and passions. Matching students to the right tutor with the expertise and experience needed is the top priority, it is not about availability but rather suitability. Tutors help their students to set personal goals that ensure progression and celebrate their successes.

When a student is struggling in a subject area low confidence leads to fixed mindsets that insist “I cannot do this.”

Tutors acknowledge but challenge this way of thinking. When preparation, patience, practice, and praise are applied in equal measure students flourish.

Pamela said; “Before my daughter began her tutoring she had very little confidence in maths and her marks were average. However through the tutor’s commitment, enthusiasm and professionalism, academically she is now excelling within this subject and has grown in confidence”.

Trevor and Jenine Jamison.

Tutortoo provide a free telephone consultation, so why not call today on 02894 465 298.

138 103

PAGE138.indd 1

02/08/2021 14:29

PAGE139.indd 1

02/08/2021 14:28

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL FOCUS

WHY CHOOSE TUTORING? There is no doubt that the pandemic has had a big impact on school life. Often, all that is needed is an extra helping hand to boost confidence and fill in any gaps. Tutors are an excellent service available to help and provide support to your child. We look at some of the top reasons why getting a tutor can be a worthwhile decision: • Building confidence - In many cases it is not academic talent that students are lacking, but belief in their own ability. Tutors will actively identify any problem areas and work to build students belief in themselves!

• Catching up – As we all know the pandemic has had a huge impact school life and gaps in learning are inevitable. Tutors will work to fill these gaps and get your child back on the right track.

• Fixing the mindset – The instability of recent times has made it very easy to lose motivation and routine. Tutoring can help reinstate a structured approach to learning, which will help translate to success in the classroom setting.

• Comfortable learning environment – The excitement of the classroom can sometimes be overwhelming. Whether online or at home, tutoring can take place in environments where children feel comfortable and relaxed.

Laura Walker

B.A Hons A.R.A.D Registered teacher of the Royal Academy of Dance

BALLET CLASSES FOR ALL AGE GROUPS

Venues:Monday Antrim Road BT15 Tuesday and Thursday St Johns Malone Road BT9 Wednesday and Friday Holywood Old School, BT18 Saturday Carnmoney Presbyterian

Contact Laura Walker

028 9076 3953 : 07368 275235 : laurawalkerballet@hotmail.com : Laura Walker Ballet

140

PAGE140.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:27

MAKE LEARNING FUN WITH LEARNING LOAN BOX

What it means to be ‘educated’ is evolving rapidly, with new advances like the internet revolutionising the skills needed for an ever-changing workplace. Claire Smales, from Donaghcloney, and Debbie Farrell from Bangor, are working together to tackle that challenge by focusing on transferable skills and promoting delight driven education. Here’s how they hope to do this!

When Debbie met Claire, she realised that they shared a similar vision for what education should look like, and perhaps even more importantly, they both had some of the same frustrations. “My children enjoy doing projects, but it can get expensive when you buy new resources for each interest and passing passion”. Debbie continues; “I was also frustrated at the environmental implications of this, and I sat down one day and thought ‘what if I could supply resources to families who needed them, when they needed them’, and the concept of Learning Loan Box was born”.

Learning Loan Box is a rental scheme for topic resources. “This way, parents support their child’s learning style while having fun! It takes the stress, and expense out of investing in new resources because you can simply rent a whole box of things which have been carefully put together”.

Meanwhile, Claire was spending time rewriting resources to make them more accessible for her children, and when Debbie suggested she put this effort to use by producing resources for her Loan Boxes, she jumped at the chance to work with her.

She now runs TopicTeach, producing educational resources with a slight twist.

“I found that a lot of displays and workbooks weren’t quite right – either they were too visually busy, cluttered or simply unappealing for my children”. Claire is a former postgraduate scientist, and she puts the skills learnt during her time in a lab to good use in preparing her TopicPacks. “TopicTeach takes a deep dive into a subject, covering all the quirky facts after building a solid factual base” she says. “This allows a more thorough investigation of a topic, but more, it gets you to a level of knowledge where you can discuss the really cool facts!” Claire’s TopicPacks are predominantly low demand, being a cross between a reference book and an activity book, which keeps in mind that some children do not engage with repetitive activities.

Debbie and Claire’s latest collaborations include a series of Loan Boxes, which include My Beating Heart, My Healthy Heart and My Historical Heart.

Learning Loan Box Debbie Farrell info@learningloanbox.co.uk www.learningloanbox.co.uk TopicTeach – Claire Smales contact@topicteach.com www.topicteach.com @topicteach on social media

PAGE141.indd 1

03/08/2021 09:33

THE SCENE

.

Andrea Archer, Lynsey McAuley and Elaine O’Toole from M&S at Fairhill, Ballymena.

Retailers James and Una at Sainsburys filling station at Sprucefield.

RETAILER ROUND UP Our photographer has the been visiting various retailers to see the shelves packed with our glossy summertime special edition of the Ulster Tatler. This month we visited our retailer friends in Ballymena and as far as Newry and Warrenpoint. We would like to send another big thank you for all their hard work.

. Daughter and mum Taylor and Stephanie Kerr at Cathcart’s mace, Ballymena.

Magazine champion Andrea Yates and asst Mgr Rachel Downes from Twelfth milestone Eurospar at Templepatrick.

Lisa houston, Eva Lowry and Sammy Bones Mark Clendinning andCo Ruth at Broughshane street Op,Loney.

Ballymena.

Fiona Dinsmore and Ellie Andrews from The Kabin on Church Street, Warrenpoint.

. Dylan Linton and Sophie Moore at graham’s newsagent in market square, Dromore.

. Sharon Headley from Tesco Extra at the Boulevard, Banbridge.

James, Liam, Aaron, Yvonne, Erin and Aine from the Fresh Food Centre, Warrenpoint.

142

PAGE142.indd 2

02/08/2021 15:45

The Word

TEL: 00 44 28 9187 2798 Direct cremations remove the most expensive elements associated with a traditional funeral cremation. Our caring approach allows you to celebrate your loved one’s life in a way that meets the needs of you and your family.

Multi Award Winning company dedicated to producing the finest free range eggs in the industry

Celebrate your loved one’s life in a way that suits you and your family from £1,150.00 We cover the whole of Northern Ireland. www.directcremationsirelandltd.com

Email: enquiries@directcremationsireland.com

• Multi award winning, including Great Taste, Irish Quality Food Awards and Blas na hEireann Gold awards

MULLEN GRADUATION

• Family run business • Farm to fork • All hens are free range • High welfare standards • British Lion accredited

Cavanagh Free Range Eggs Ltd. 58 Clonkee Road, Cavanagh, Newtownbutler Co. Fermangh, BT92 8FH Website: www.cavanagheggs.co.uk Email: hello@cavanagheggs.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/cavanaghfreerangeeggs.co.uk Twitter: @cavanagheggs Phone: 028 6773 7889 Mobile John: 078 5796 4436 Mobile Eileen: 078 5796 4468

Ellen Mullen, the daughter of Mark and Lorna Mullen, Portadown, graduated from The University of Ulster with a Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE). She also has a Bachelor of Music 1st Class Honours and an MA in Arts Management from Queen’s University, Belfast.

143

PAGE143.indd 1

02/08/2021 14:27

ISSUE: AUGUST 1992

LOOKING BACK ULSTER TATLER

The wedding of Miss Tanya Brown and Mr Marc Graham. The best man was Luke Hamill and groomsman was Brian McCabe, bridesmaids were Anne Graham and Patricia Haire. The flowergirls were the brides nieces; Victoria and Natalie Brown, and the pageboy was the grooms nephew, Jonathan Graham.

Pictured at Kelly Fuel’s Junior Hardcourt Championship are Philip King, Andrea Wilson, Laura McMillan and David Johnston.

SIMON COMMUNITY DINNER AT THE CULLODEN HOTEL

Pictured at the Glaskermore Primary PTA dinner are; Liz Heslip, Hilda Ferguson, Alison Wilson, Laura McConville, Mervyn Heslip, Sandy Ferguson, Clifton Wilson and Mayne McConville.

Margaret Anderson, Ian Anderson, Alana Johnston (Miss Belfast 92), Roger Courtney and Christine Woods, pictured at the Simon Community Dinner.

St John’s Ambulance members Victoria Walker, Julie Chambers, Eleanor Taylor, Carol Wallace and Helen Marsden.

The Northern Ireland Mother & Baby Appeal’s annual Midsummer Ball. Pictured are: Denis Falls, Heather Horner, Horace McCutcheon, Laura Horner, Andrew Bell, Angela Bell, Leslie Horner and John Leishman.

144

PAGE144.indd 2

02/08/2021 14:27

Colour version 1a Bloomfield Road, Belfast BT5 5LR Tel: 028 9046 0100 www.beautyculture.co.uk Open 3 late nights, and also open on Sunday 1pm-6pm

PROUD SPONSOR OF

Ulster Tatler AWARDS

Pantone E 109-1

BEAUTY SALON OF THE YEAR

0/100/60/20

White

new smart response serum delivers a personalised response every time, for healthier-looking skin over time

hydrate brighten soothe firm

Image Zoo Ltd The Mews /G reenwood Manor Greenwood Avenue Bel fa f st , BT4 3JJ 028 90 200 420 www w .i magezoo-design.eu

9

Ulster Tatler AWARDS

Beauty Salon of the Year 2019

02/08/2021 15:32

ULSTER TATLER

AUGUST 2021

VOLUME 55 NO.8 ULSTERTATLER.COM

AUGUSTCOVERSPREADS.indd 1