33 minute read
ULSTER TATLER GOES GREEN
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.
Emma and Amy West-Hurst. Club Commodore Aidan Pounder and Ards & North Down Mayor Cllr Robert Adair.
Aaron, Claire, Alexander and Darragh Ritson. Ryan, Sarah, Jasper and Sophia Smith.
BYC sailing rear Commodore Des Magee with his 2012 Olympics boat.
Elite Travel NI Visit: elitetravelni.net for more o ers
YOUR ELITE TRAVEL COMPANY OFFERING HOLIDAYS TAILORED AROUND YOU
YORK BREAK
• Departs 19th November 2021 • 3 Days • From £189 per person • Deposit £50 per person
KILLARNEY- GLENEAGLE HOTEL
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MICHAEL BUBLE TRIBUTE NIGHT
GLASGOW, LOCH LOMOND AND EDINBURGH 2022
• Departs 19th November 2021 • 3 Days • From £189 per person • Deposit £50 per person
London Show Breaks
Sept 2021 - Oct 2022 #girlsbreak #birthdaybreak #couplesbreak
*Prices from £199pp including fl ights/hotel/named area tickets #stalls #circle #wow from any Belfast Airport or City of Derry. 3, 4, or 5A hotels in London you decide.
HOTEL L’ARCHIPEL, SEYCHELLES
Price includes: • 7 nights in a Superior Room • Return economy fl ights • Half board • Inter-island fl ight transfers in the Seychelles • Departures in June 2022 Departure airports: DUBLIN - £2,440pp
13 Day Classic Group Tour - DISCOVER JAPAN
Savings up to £1,490pp / €1,560 pp fl ying 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.) 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.
DISNEYLAND PARIS 4A Ibiza Foodie October Short Break
Magical O ers 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
Price Includes: Return Air France Flights ex Dublin 3 nights in Disney’s 3 star Cheyenne Hotel 4 Days Park Tickets
9th Octover - 4 nights - from £389pp Morning Food Tasting Walk in Ibiza - included
Price includes: Return fl ights Belfast International to Ibiza Hand luggage only 4A Hotel Nautico Ebeso, Bed and breakfast basis
ATOL Protected Deposit £149pp
Christmas Party Idea Liverpool Weekend
Enjoy A Gin Journey in Liverpool Dec 2021
• 10th Dec £299pp x 2 nights • Price includes: Return fl ights 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 fl ights from Dublin 3 Excalibur Hotel & Casino Room only 23kgs checked in luggage Deposit - £50 per person
GALWAY - ST PATRICKS DAY 2022
• Departs 16th March 2022 • 4 Days • From £279 per person • Deposit £50 per person
START PLANNING SUMMER 2023
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OFFERING BEAR MAKING WORKSHOPS & BEAR MAKING KITS
WE SUPPLY TO INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMERS, NURSERIES AND COMMUNITY GROUPS ETC
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CRAFTY TE IES PROVIDES A CHILDREN THE MAGICAL EXPERIENCE OF BUILDING AND OWNING THEIR OWN BEAR TO CHERISH AND LOVE FOREVER.
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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 craftyteddies
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
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
Visit us on the Main Street in Newcastle
028 4372 2510 | www.paintedearthgifts.com
Painted.Earth PaintedEarthNewcastle
A vibr t ndscape, d by the p t 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
One night Bed & Breakfast for 2 with an evening meal and complimentary glass of bubbly Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021
Book: +353 (0)46 902 3119 ardboynehotel.com From €135 pps
Experience enchantment with a break at Bellinter House this summer with one of our B&B packages Offer valid until end of August 2021
Book: +353 (0)46 903 0900 bellinterhouse.com From €99.00 total stay
Overnight stay for 2 with breakfast and evening meal with a complimentary glass of bubbly included Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021
Book: +353 (0)46 943 1516 castlearchhotel.com 10% discount
Weekday tickets at Causey Ice Cream Adventure at reduced rate of €10.80 per person with Promo Code (TATLER) Offer valid until 29 August 2021
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
One night B & B for 2 adults and 2 children with access tickets for Tayto Park
Offer valid 1 - 31 August 2021 Book: +353 (0)1 690 6666 citynorthhotel.com €139 per night
Tea/coffee & scones on arrival. 3-course dinner. Beautifully-appointed bedrooms and cooked to order breakfast Offer valid Sun – Thur, July - December 2021
Book: +353 (0)41 988 4444 conynghamarms.ie From €130.00 pps
1 night Bed and Breakfast with 3 course A La Carte dinner in our Ivy Restaurant
Offer valid until 31 December 2021
Book: +353 (0)1 801 3500 dunboynecastlehotel.com €110 mw/€130 we
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)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
€50 pps
Friday Treat with our Fabulous Fridays Offer! €50 per person sharing B & B available Fridays Summer 2021 Offer valid 1 July - 30 September 2021
Book: +353 (0)46 954 1200 thehamlet.ie €199 pps
2 midweek night’s stay with Boyne Valley Breakfast on each morning and 2 rounds of Golf at Headfort Golf Club next door Offer valid midweek until the end of 2021
Book: +353 (0)46 924 0063 headfortarms.ie €450.00 for 3 night
. Enjoy a “Hands on Farm Experience” in one our self-catering holiday homes for 3 nights for a family of 4 Offer valid 1 July - 30 September 2021
Book: +353 (0)86 122 1589 meathselfcatering.com €95 per person
Make Your Own Bottle of Gin and bring your bottle of gin home! Must be pre-booked on line.
Offer valid weekends until December 2021
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
One night Bed & Breakfast for 2 with an evening meal and complimentary glass of bubbly Offer valid 1 September - 1 December 2021 Stay 4 nights and get 5th FREE
Come stay in our fab 4 star self-catering cottages or camp with Jack and Michelle the donkey and goat Offer valid until 31 August 2021 €12
ACCESS Cinema presents ‘The King of the Waltz. Tickets only €12, duration of event 140 mins approx. including intermission Offer valid 8 July - 29 August 2021 From €69 pps
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 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
EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS AT NORTHERN IRELAND’S PREMIER SPA DESTINATION
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.
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. 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.
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
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
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.
SUMMER OF STAYCATIONS
Portrush
We chat to some prominent local fi gures about why The island of Ireland is the ultimate staycation location this summer.
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 diff erences, 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.
Stephen Whalley Director Whalley Fine Art
Husband and wife artists Stephen Whalley and Dawn Crothers purchased this quint little fi sherman’s cottage in Donaghadee just metres from the sea, back in early 2020 and decided to renovate it during the fi rst lockdown in June 2020. The house has seen an amazing luxury transformation both inside and out!
The interior has been fi nished 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 fi re pit and BBQ. The house has a master bedroom and a second bedroom with two single beds. The house has been fi lled 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 fi rst 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 ‘fl ying’ 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 fi re 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 coff ee shops Center Parcs had to off er, as well as fi nding 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.
2 Night Break from £95pps
Gabriel Byrne (Warrenpoint GC President), Ardglass GC past captains Harry Dougherty, Brian McMullan and Jack Murphy.
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. Dessie Houston (Dunmurry GC former President), Dick Lewis, former Irish Rugby International Philip Rainey and Brian Johnston.
ULSTER PRESS GOLF SOCIETY EVENT
The Ulster Press Golf Society event at Malone Golf Club, sponsored by Movie House Cinemas, had a fi ne 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 fi ne 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.
Albert Kirk, former NI football International player John O’Neill, Liam Beckett and William Duffy.
FOCUS ON
Tatler Goes Green
With 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.
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 fl exible 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
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
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.
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.
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
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 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
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”.
