East Belfast Life spring 2016

East BelfastLife l Spring 2016

BelfastLife EAST

An Ulster Tatler Group Publication

SPRING 2016 | ÂŁ2.00 where sold

WHY I LOVE...

paul foster, SAM Mccready, andrea montgomery, ben tsang & cllr. sonia copeland tell us why they love EAST belfast

moving on up hot property in east belfast

dining in the east ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO EATING OUT IN EAST BELFAST

an ulster tatler GROUP publication

Connswater Shopping Centre Tel: 028 9045 8156

Insurance

Brokers

Provincewide Member

introduction

Contents

An Ulster Tatler GROUP Publication

Welcome...

l spring 2016

Why I Love East Belfast - Paul Foster

20

What’s in a Name? -Streets of East Belfast

32

Why I Love East Belfast - Sonia Copeland,

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Why I Love East Belfast - Andrea Montgomery

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Eating Out in the East

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Why I Love East Belfast - Ben Tsang

hot property in eAst belfAst

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East Belfast Motoring

dInIng In THE EAST

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Why I Love East Belfast - Sam McCready

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What’s Happening in the East

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Richard Kell - Profile

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Street Smart

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Jennifer Hawthorne - OBE

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Community Watch

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Fred Magee - A Lifetime of Service

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EastSide Arts

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Spring Fashion Trends

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Gastronomy - A Review

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Cafe Smart - A Review

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Ulster Tatler Awards - Vote Now

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Hot Property

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Community Watch

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Street Smart

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Five of the Best - The Best Pubs in East Belfast

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John Baucher Exhibition

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The Schools Cup Final

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‘Taste’ at Strand Arts Centre

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St. Patrick’s College 30th Anniversary

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Jim Rodgers High Sheriff of Belfast

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Glamour Evening at Beauty Culture

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Panasonic Store Opening

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Salon for Men 3rd Anniversary

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Lagan College Art Exhibition

44

Aidan Campbell Book Launch

52

The Stokers Halt

60

Ballyhackamore Market

64

CS Lewis Festival

73

Breda Academy Formal

78

Ireland’s Call - Book Launch

BelfastLife EAST

An Ulster tAtler GroUp pUblicAtion

SPRING 2016 | £2.00 wheRe SoLd

FEATURES

east belfastlife

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WHY I LOVE...

pAUl foster, sAM MccreAdy, AndreA MontGoMery, ben tsAnG & cllr. soniA copelAnd tell Us why they love eAst belfAst

mOVIng On up essentiAl GUide to eAtinG oUt in eAst belfAst

Welcome to the Spring/Summer 2016 issue of East Belfast Life!

In this issue we meet a host of different people, some you will have heard of and some you will not. But they all have two things in common, they all love east Belfast and have worked within the area to make it a better place.

SPOTLIGHT

An Ulster tAtler GroUp pUblicAtion

Connswater Shopping Centre Tel: 028 9045 8156

All streets have a history. In this issue local historian Aidan Campbell tells us ‘What’s in a Name?’ , as he uncovers the stories behind the names of some of the most well known streets in east Belfast.

East Belfast is home to some of the best property and up and coming developments in Northern Ireland.

Throughout this issue we feature extensive coverage of everything you will need if you are planning on moving around, or into the area.

We hope you enjoy our latest issue, and if you know of a story or event in the area that you think should be covered, please feel free to get in touch.

We hope you enjoy this issue!

OUR COVER Specsavers Connswater Shopping Centre Tel: 028 9045 8156 CONTACT EAST Belfast Life ISSN 39 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6UT T: 028 9066 3311 F: 028 9038 1915 E: southbelfastlife@ulstertatler.com Ulster Tatler Group accepts no responsibility for loss, damage or the return of unsolicited material.

SOCIAL

Both locals and visitors to east Belfast are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. In this issue we feature a number of the area’s most popular eateries. We check out some of the new dining spots making their mark in the area - if you are not hungry now, you soon will be!

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East Belfast : People in Profile

Paul Foster, Managing Director of Foster and Sons Removals Ltd in Holywood tell us….

“WHY I LOVE...

East BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? From an early age my father taught me the importance of hard work while I worked alongside him in our family’s removals business during the school holidays. I continued this until my latter years of school at Campbell College Belfast, and due to my sporting nature and playing rugby, I had a keen interest in health and fitness. When I finished my A-Levels I trained as a fitness instructor and personal trainer, but continued to help out on the trucks when I could. I also studied Business Management which helped me develop the sales area of the removals company, and this is when we started offering customers a free survey of their home and a fixed price, rather than just an hourly rate. I became a Director of the company alongside my parents in 2003, and then the Managing Director when my father passed away from cancer in 2007.

I am now the 4th generation to run the company and extremely proud to continue the legacy.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK? I am very hands on with the business and I am an early riser. My day starts with a quick run up the hills at Redburn Country Park, and

then I’m ready for a busy day ahead. I meet with my removals team at 8.00am to brief them on the jobs we have on that day before heading out to meet potential clients. I personally carry out all of our home and office surveys, so that I ensure we are best prepared for each removal. Moving home can be stressful, but we organise everything from the packing of the house contents, to cleaning and maintenance of the properties so that the removal goes as smoothly as possible.

I thoroughly enjoy meeting with customers, and passing on my knowledge and experience.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? The business keeps me very busy, but two afternoons a week I pick my five-year-old son Joshua up from school and we take our two dogs for a walk, usually up to the top of the hill at Stormont, which also has a good park that he enjoys playing in. Family is very important to me and I love spending time with him as I would have done with my own dad.

Now that I no longer play for Holywood Rugby Football Club, I keep my fitness levels up and destress from a day at work by going to Virgin Active Gym.

Paul studied at Campbell College

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : People in Profile

Paul loves to catch the odd Ulster Rugby game at Kingspan Stadium.

Pic by dicksondigital.com

I also try and catch a movie at Dundonald Omniplex when I can get the chance!

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GET OUT & ABOUT IN EAST BELFAST? I love

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING/working IN EAST BELFAST?

comedy shows and would go to the Waterfront Hall to watch acts such as Frank Skinner, Dara Ó Briain and Jimeoin, and I have tickets to see Jimmy Carr in November. I like nothing more than having a good meal and a few drinks with friends before going to a show or concert.

When I get a chance I try and catch Ulster playing rugby at home at the Kingspan Stadium, and we were delighted to recently move Rory Best and his family into their new home.

I spend a lot of my time visiting the residents of east Belfast who are moving home, and there is a great warmth and sense of community amongst everyone I meet. I have lived on this side of town my whole life, and everything you need is right on your doorstep from great parks such as Belmont Park on Cairnburn Road where I played as a child, to fantastic restaurants and shops. Being directly linked to the housing market it is great that there are so many estate agents nearby that would recommend us, many of whom I went to school with. I spend a lot of time driving and it helps that there are good road and transport links, and I also love seeing the cranes at Harland and Wolff when I’m driving back home.

Hidden Gem: Cafe Nosh in Dundonald is a hit with Paul and his family.

The flicks: Paul and his family like to take in a movie or two at Omniplex. Dundonald.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Café Nosh in Dundonald is a hit with the kids as I would take my son, and my niece and nephew there after school for a treat. It is in a really handy location, and near the Moat and Stormont Parks. The food and the coffee are really good, and I am partial to one of their Nutella Muffins or Peanut Crunches.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? I have a few restaurants that I like depending on who is with me, and there is a good selection of places to choose from. When I meet up with other business owners at our Mastermind group we go to Bennetts on the Belmont Road as they do great breakfasts. When I’m with the family we go to Little Wing’s pizza in Ballyhackamore, and after the gym Slim’s Kitchen has a great selection of healthy food. When I want a really good feed I go to Burger Shack at the Ominplex in Dundonald as a treat before the cinema.

East Belfast Life 03

East Belfast : Social

A Festival of Ideas As part of the recent ‘Imagine! Festival of Ideas and Politics’, award winning photographer John Baucher created a series of photographs based around the theme of immigration. The exhibition, entitled It is Nothing New launched at the Framewerk Gallery, Newtownards Road, and ran there for the duration of the festival.

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Deirdre Robb with James and George Robb and Lesley Cherry Aine McGurk, Terri Hooley and Dawn Richardson.

Peter O’Neill, Eva Grossman and John Baucher.

Collette Bailie and Jacqui Frazer.

Ling Gillespie and Sarah Uprichard.

Nick Rogers and Jenny Muir.

Elena Carrasco and Laura Sloan.

John Baucher and Terri Hooley.

East Belfast Life

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Established 1921

FOSTER & SONS REMOVALS LTD

HOME & OFFICE REMOVALS

Packaging Storage Cleaning Maintenance 4th Generation Family Business

028 9042 4403

www.fosterandsons.co.uk 209 Old Holywood Road, Holywood BT18 9QS

East Belfast : SPORT

Up for the Cup A 7,000-strong crowd descended on Kingspan Stadium for the Schools Cup Final between RBAI and Campbell College. A fiercely fought contest ended with east Belfast’s Campbell College losing 13-3, and RBAI picking up the trophy for a second year in a row.

Despite the result, a great family day out was had by all on what was a beautiful St. Patrick’s Day.

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Simon and Ali Robinson with Ralph and Matt.

Kevin, Callum and Claire Cronin.

Fiona, Matthew and David Sturgess.

Audrey and Alexandra Heath.

Gail Holland and Helen McConaghy.

Evelyn Andrews and Emma Andrews.

Donal, Ethan and Brenda Shearer.

Stephen Kelson, Jacqui Maxwell, Hannah Smyth, Francesca Hool and Daryl Maxwell.

Diane and Rebecca McAlister.

East Belfast : Sport

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Alastair and Flo Reid, Jack and Claire Gray, Katie Reid, Stella and Charlie Gray.

Helen Cochrane, Wendy Palmer, Fiona Watson and Kathryn Bedi.

Amy Hendren, Deborah Heatley, Katie McMillan and Hannah Graham.

Doug Rea, Stacey Collison and Mike Rea. Charlie, Lauren and Lewis Murray.

Angela Fryers with Ken Keane and Paula Keane.

Amy Boyd, David Boyd and Patrick Termini.

Brian Larkin, Eric Samson, Michael McDowell, Johnny Conn and Glenn Aiken.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : Social

Taste’s Great EastSide Arts recently hosted a special evening to celebrate the remarkable music of ‘Taste’ at the Strand Arts Centre. The evening showcased a special premier screening of ‘What’s Going On - Taste Live at the Isle of Wight’ followed by a Q&A session with Donal Gallagher, brother of the late, legendary ‘Taste’ guitarist, vocalist, composer and performer, Rory Gallagher.

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Eleanor and Frank Girvan Terri Hooley and Anthony Toner.

Mark McCleery and Sean Brannigan.

Gordon Thompson, John Flanigan, Peter Spratt, Joe Cohen and Billy McCoy. Sammy Wilson MLA, Heather Chesney and Staurt Bailie..

Heather Chesney, Peter Spratt and Jacqueline O’Hagan.

John Flanigan, Joe Cohen, Declan Quinn and Donal Gallagher.

John Wilson and his wife with Donal Gallagher and Peter Spratt

East Belfast Life

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028 9020 0050 www.mmwlegal.com MMW Advert Belfast Life Spec.indd 1

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East Belfast : Social

St. Patrick’s 30th Anniversary Ball The PTA of Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Knock, hosted a Ball to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the College in Titanic Belfast recently. With 600 guests, the evening was a huge success. Parents, teachers past and present, alumni and friends of the College all gathered to support raising funds for a mindfulness and resilience programme to be rolled out for pupils of the school. The programme is also supported by Belfast City Airport Community Fund. Entertainment was provided by the McBride Quartet and Niamh Harding, all past pupils of the College.

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01. Miriam Duffy, Fiona McAreavey, Nicky Molloy and Catherine Guerin.

02. The 30th anniversary organising committee.

03. College Vice-Principals Paul McCormick and Deborah McLaughlin with

Mairead Sweeney and Brendan Corrigan.

04. Gerard and Fionnuala Sloan, Jarlath O’Grady, Michaela Collins, Ursula and

Philip Loughran, Breige Moley and Mark Holywood.

05. Andrew Tubman, Lisa McCluskey, Tony O’Donnell and Katherine McCrory.

06. Paul McCormick, former head of classics Pascal McCaffrey, Mary Mullan

and College Principal Dermot Mullan.

07. Brendan and Nicola McCarry and Edel and John McGill.

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : Social

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09. Louise Collins and Joanne Wolfe.

10. Gerard Hendron and Denise Reid 11. Michael and Helen Hamill and Alastair McKinley.

12. Jane and Leo O’Reilly.

13. John and Dolores Bigger, Angela and John Algie.

14. College Principal Dermot Mullan, Lord

Bishop Treanor, Fiona McAreavey and Board

of Governers Chairman Leo O’Reilly.

15. Lauren Murtagh, Niamh Harding, Tony

Tumelty, Maureen Wynne and Claire Guerin.

16. Antoinette and Declan Murphy.

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East Belfast Life 11

East Belfast : People in Profile

We catch up with local barbershop owner Richard Kell to find out a little more about his business, why he loves working in east Belfast and his plans for the future.

A CUT ABOVE What has been your career path to date?

I started hairdressing when I left school and trained and worked in a unisex salon until I was 20. After that I moved to England and completed a two year course with a company in Manchester. I really enjoyed it there and it’s where I gained most of my confidence. Things always ran so smoothly compared to salons I’ve worked at here, it had structure and good management and they were always expanding.

They have six salons around the north of England and the services they provide are exceptional as are the salons. When I came back to Belfast I knew I wanted my own shop, so the planning and saving began and here we are three years later. Year two is almost over and I’ve two staff that do so well and really contribute to how the shop is run day to day. At the end of last year we started working with a small Independent company that manufacture hair care products and together we have just launched a small Cleansing and Styling range that consists of five different products. It’s been a great start and I’m very happy with what I’ve achieved so far, but there’s much more to come. My main goal is to eventually expand further and open a second barbershop, it’s something that has been discussed recently.

What does a typical day at work involve for you?

I meet a lot of very different people every day so I don’t really have a typical day, that’s what I like best about my job. I do my usual daily duties but every day is different.

How do you relax in your spare time?

When I’m not working I’m usually at home with my head buried into a laptop. I use Twitter a lot to promote my business. It’s a great way to gain new customers and to communicate and show support to other people in my position.

What do you like most about living \ working in east Belfast?

The support I’ve had from other businesses around me has been unbelievable I’ve always someone to turn to for help. The staff at the other shops couldn’t be nicer I’ve made some truly good friends.

The lovely lady Heather that owns Mrs Bouquets florist has looked after me from day one and I couldn’t thank the community enough for their repeat custom. They have kept the doors open all this time and I suppose they make my dreams seem more possible. A lot of new customers that come to the shop are recommended by others and I have a very loyal clientele, many of whom travel into Belfast to us. I’m not originally from east Belfast myself. I grew up in the lower Shankill.

So, a shop on the Shankill Road would definitely be considered for shop number two.

Where do you like to socialise in east Belfast?

I don’t socialise much at all. These days I’m pretty busy with work. I do love a good feed and a few drinks at Bennetts on Belmont Road when I get the chance.

What is your favourite hidden gem in East Belfast?

Why? Richard Kell Barbershop of course. It’s a little gem.

What is your favourite restaurant / cafe in east Belfast? Why? Has to be Number 36 on Belmont Road. Great menu and the food is always perfect. They serve a top breakfast too. Lovely place… really cool light fittings too!

2A Grand Parade, Belfast BT5 5HH Tel: 028 9543 5846 Email: kellsbarbershop@gmail.com Opening Times: Monday 9.00am - 3.00pm; Tuesday 9.00am - 5.00pm; Wednesday 9.00am - 5.00pm; Thursday 10.00am - 7.00pm; Friday 9am - 5pm; Saturday 9.00am - 3.00pm; Sunday 12 Noon - 5.00pm By appointment only 12

East Belfast Life

Richard Kell BARBERSHOP

East Belfast : FASHION

StreetSmart...

East Belfast Life hits Ballyhackamore to check out what’s hot in the style stakes

Clare Baker

Caolan Maria Q. Where’s your outfit from today?

Q. Where’s your outfit from?

My hoodie & jeans are Topman & my trainers are from JD Sports.

My top and jeans are from Next and my blazer is Marks & Spencer.

Q. Where is your favourite place to shop?

Q. Where is your favourite place to shop?

I would say probably Topman or River Island because they have a range of different trends and styles.

I really like Next for on trend pieces.

Q. What’s your essential item for this season?

Any type of hat , like caps or beanies.

Q. Describe your sense of style.

I usually dress smart outside of work, so smart-casual & simple.

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East Belfast Life

Q. Do you have a style icon/inspiration?

I don’t have a style icon or a particular style I follow myself, however I really admire 50s and retro styles.

at the heart of the

c mmunity Our Community Fund has invested over

Environmental

ÂŁ250,000 into local groups and projects since 2009

Educational

Social For more information please visit www.belfastcityairport.com

Breda Academy

“Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow” Breda Academy enjoyed a busy, successful Open Evening recently. Potential Year 8 pupils, along with their parents and family, were able to get a taste of what the new school has to offer. During the evening the Principal, Mr Matthew Munro, shared the ethos of Breda Academy with the large crowd. He emphasised that Breda Academy is a school characterised by ‘quality teaching, high expectations and positive relationships where every student is encouraged to achieve, belong, learn and enjoy

For more information please contact the school for a prospectus: Breda Academy, Newtownbreda Road, BT8 6PY or Visit the Breda Academy website www.elbnet.org.uk/breda for the most up to date news.

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East Belfast : Social

Helping Children to be Seen on our Roads The Connswater Specsavers team has donated 120 high visibility vests to help young children in east Belfast be seen better on our roads. The giveaway marked Specsavers’ sponsorship of Road Safety Week and aimed to highlight the importance of being visible to motorists and to keep young people safe. Specsavers store director, Paula Cunningham, said: “To be safe as a road user and as a pedestrian you have to be seen and this applies especially to children as they make their way to and from school. It is particularly important that all pedestrians take precautions and wear high visibility clothing when out and about in the dark. Our optical assistant Stacey Wallace was delighted to visit each of the schools to deliver the vests and we hope they will be used over and over again.”

Greenwood Primary School, Victoria Park Primary School, St Joseph’s Primary School and Orangefield Primary School each received a set of 30 vests for use by their pupils.

a royal award The work of Jennifer Hawthorne, the Housing Executive’s Head of Communities, in assisting to transform communities post conflict across Northern Ireland has been marked by the Queen. Jennifer, from east Belfast, was awarded an OBE at Buckingham Palace in February.

Jennifer is pictured with her husband Roy, daughter Charlotte and mum, Greta Wilson, at the event. Jennifer’s outfit for the Investiture ceremony was created by Belfast designer Una Rodden.

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : Social

Hear to Care This month Specsavers Connswater celebrates its first anniversary in its much larger new premises within the east Belfast shopping centre. Whilst Specsavers’ comprehensive eyecare offering is well known people are often surprised to learn about its extensive hearcare expertise.

Following significant investment Specsavers Connswater now has a dedicated hearing centre equipped with a specialist soundproof room and booth for hearing testing. Hearcare Services are delivered by audiologist Sue Carter supported by Hearcare Assistant Laura Gouldie and Hearcare Champion Bryan Kirkpatrick.

Sue explains, “Hearing loss is surprisingly common, affecting 1 in 6 adults in the UK. It can be a very isolating and worrying condition but the good news is that Specsavers can provide everything needed for better hearing.”

“If you’re not sure whether you have a hearing problem we advise patients to have our free 3-minute hearing check to find out. Then if you need a full hearing test our hearing care professional provides that as well. It’s also free and takes about an hour. We then discuss the results and explain the range of hearing assistance available if that is required.”

The choice of hearing aids can be

Specsaver store directors at Connswater Lynsey Caldwell and Paula Cunningham.

overwhelming but at Specsavers Connswater Sue and her team help the patient find a solution that best meets his/her needs, lifestyle and budget. In many cases hearing aids can be fitted on the same day as the hearing test. Follow up appointments and aftercare are all part of the service and area also free of charge for as long as they’re needed. Regular hearing checks are important so a hearing test is recommended every year for over 40’s and every two years for young people.

Readers of East Belfast Life can avail of two special offers in Specsavers Connswater.

Just take this article along to the store and you can benefit from a half price eye test at £10 (normally £20). For patients purchasing hearing aids a discount of £50 is offered on production of this magazine.

For more information check out the website at www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/ belfastconnswater or to book a free hearing test please phone 02890 458156.

East Belfast Life 19

East Belfast : HISTORY

What’s In A Name?

There is often a theme to street names, Aidan Campbell has explored these themes in many of his East Belfast history book, here he considers a few examples in the Castlereagh area.

I published my book on the history of Castlereagh several years ago and was aware of the close association with horseracing and the surrounding street names on the Castlereagh Road. In 1923 the McCaw, Stevenson & Orr Printworks, alongside the Loop River on Castlereagh Road was on the very outskirts of Belfast and considered to be ‘out in the country’. (It is now the site of a Tesco store). But by 1928 preparations, such as tramlines and street lighting, were in hand for housing development.

I wondered about the use of the names of Derby winners in the street names and I was contacted by a retired estate agent who informed me that the house builder in the 1920s and 1930s was a keen horse racing fan – thus the link. Ormonde was the earliest Derby winner in 1886 and was followed in 1894 by Ladas, in 1902

by Ard Patrick, in 1905 by Cicero, in 1907 by Orby, in 1915 by Pommern, in 1919 by Grand Parade, in 1930 by Blenheim and in 1931 by Cameronian. These are all familiar names of streets in the Castlereagh area, but possibly the most talked about Derby winner was Trigo (Trigo being the Spanish word for ‘wheat’ reflecting his

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East Belfast Life

owner’s business). He was particularly interesting as he won the 1929 Derby (as well as the English and Irish St Ledgers) at very long odds of 33/1. Trigo was not considered a serious contender for the Epsom Derby but the story goes that as he was being taken to the race the trainer was told ‘He’s the best colt that has ever left Ireland.’

McCaw, Stevenson & Orr Printworks Castlereagh Road 1923.

Despite miserable weather, the race attracted a record crowd, estimated at half a million and many Belfast residents

East Belfast : HISTORY

Shorts Missiles, Montgomery Road 1952.

Aidan Campbell has published 11 local history books covering areas of East Belfast.

His latest publication covers the area of South Belfast called ‘Newtownbreda’.

The books are on sale at Hillmount Garden Centre, Marie Curie Hospice, Stirling Avenue 1952.

ABOVE: Some other street naming in the Castlereagh area includes Montgomery Road, Alanbrooke Road, Alexander Road and Dill Road which are all named after Ulster Field Marshalls from WW2. Stirling Avenue, Tudor Avenue and Sunderland Road are named after Shorts aircraft and Rochester Road takes its name from the English town where Shorts was originally based.

ABOVE: Original notice of property to be built on Trigo Parade.

backed the horse heavily. I spoke to an elderly neighbour recently who recalled that in his family years ago his father told his mother ‘Get all the housekeeping money on Trigo – he is a sure thing!’

This was dutifully done and many punters made money. Trigo was owned by local businessman and successful racehorse owner and breeder William Barnett who lived at Malone House, Belfast.

William Barnett was also the founder of W & R Barnett Ltd based in Belfast which became one of the leading grain importing and exporting companies in the United Kingdom with significant interests in Argentina (where Spanish is spoken). He bequeathed

Hamilton News and The Wingrove. www.eastbelfasthistory.com

left & Above: Pommern, the 1915 Derby winner and Trigo, winner of the the 1929 race. The two legendary horses have had their names immortalised in East Belfast.

Malone House and one hundred acres of attached land to Belfast Corporation and was very generous in leaving money to local hospitals.

In Cregagh estate the names of rivers in Northern Ireland such as Trassey, Shimna, Kilbroney and Burren are applied to thoroughfares while on Cregagh Road the name of Downshire is taken from the landowner years ago, the Marquis of Downshire.

Consider the name of the thoroughfare in your own home or business address and the surrounding area. Is there a story behind the name?

East Belfast Life 21

East Belfast : Social

New Sheriff in Town Alderman Jim Rodgers was recently sworn in as the new High Sheriff of Belfast during a traditional ceremony at City Hall. Alderman Rodgers, who has represented East Belfast at Council level since 1993, previously served two terms as Lord Mayor of Belfast, in 2001/2 and 2007/8, as well as being Deputy Lord Mayor in 1997/98. He joins a select list of individuals, including Ian Adamson and the late Herbert Ditty, to have served in all three offices.

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and Greta Rodgers and Alison Ireland.

02. Greta Rodgers and

Tom Creighton MBE. 03. John Kelly and Deputy Lord

Mayor Cllr Guy Spence.

04. Fraser Agnew, High Sheriff Jim

Rodgers and Lord Empey OBE. 05. Jim Rodgers with Chris and

Roisin Sherry.

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East Belfast : Social

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Lila Agnew and Lady Stella Empey.

Jim Rodgers OBE with Fionnuala and Richard Jay-O’Boyle.

Jim Rodgers with Lord Maginnis.

Cllr Tom Haire, Jim Rodgers and Cllr Sonya Copeland.

John Davidson, Jim Rodgers, Harry Beckinsale and Fred Magee.

Jim Rodgers and Alderman Christopher Stalford.

Philip Robinson, Jim Rea, Carol Rea and Joe McKee. John Walsh, Suzanne Wylie, Jim Roders, Greta Rodgers and Cllr Guy Spence.

Jim Rodgers swearing in ceremony.

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East Belfast Life 23

East Belfast : Community Watch

Take on the Tower East Belfast’s Dr Phil Turner is calling on local daredevils to abseil one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic buildings to raise vital funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre.

Dr Turner wants you to be part of Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Take on the Tower Abseil on the 9th and 10th April which will see brave supporters abseil 190ft down Belfast City Hospital’s famous yellow tower block, Northern Ireland’s 4th tallest building. This is only the second time that the building has been abseiled and the first event in 2015 saw an incredible 270 people take on the challenge, raising over £150,000 for Friends of the Cancer Centre along the way.

“I’ve been funded by Friends of the Cancer Centre for three years and the support of the charity means that I’m able to investigate and develop new ways to treat local patients. I wanted to give something back as a way of saying thank you for the support the charity has given me and the Take on the Tower Abseil was the perfect opportunity.

Registration for the event is £40 per person and each participant is asked to raise a suggested minimum sponsorship of £150 for the charity.

Participants must be over 14 years of age. If you would like to Take on the Tower and help raise vital funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre, you can find out more at www.friendsofthecancercentre.com or call 028 9069 9393.

Friends of the Cancer Centre’s clinical research fellow, Dr Phil Turner joins Friends of the Cancer Centre’s fundraising manager, Claire Hogarth, to get ready for the charity’s Take on the Tower Abseil on 9th and 10th April.

Ashfield Girls’ Read for Cancer

Rebecca Spiers (Cancer Fund for Children), Holly Haighton, Rebekah Gorman, Charli Carson, Mrs A Mungavin (Principal), Helen Ball, Mrs J Donaldson (Charity Co-ordinator), Melissa Donnelly, Miss L Gavin (Literacy Co-ordinator), Rebecca Duff and Katie Brown.

Pupils at Ashfield Girls’ High School had the pleasure of presenting a cheque for £3,169.36 to Rebecca Spiers from Cancer Fund for Children recently. Having improved their reading skills during a week-long sponsored ‘ReadOn’,

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East Belfast Life

Year 8-10 pupils were moved to learn how their efforts and fundraising will support both children undergoing treatment for cancer, as well as their families. The girls felt proud to be able to support such a worthy cause.

East Belfast : Community Watch

Public to Name New Bridges & Pathway The Connswater Community Greenway in partnership with Belfast City Council has given the public the opportunity to officially name the three bridges within Greenville Park and Orangefield Park, and the new greenway pathway that extends from Orangefield Park to the Braniel .

The new pathway to be named will be the next section of the Greenway to open, in May 2016, following the completion of works in Orangefield and Victoria Parks last year.

Farrans Construction is currently undertaking Phase 2 construction works with works continuing at major sections including the C.S. Lewis Square at Holywood Arches, Avoniel, The Hollow at Elmgrove, Mersey Street, and many other sites across east Belfast to better connect people and places, with the greenway providing 16km of new cycle and walkways and 26 new bridges and crossings upon completion by mid 2017.

To be named: New bridge connecting Greenville Park to Orangefield Park

The public submissions were open for entries from Friday 5th February to Friday 26th February at midnight. A panel of judges will now meet to shortlist the entries and then the public will be asked to vote for their favourites in March 2016.

For information on how to vote please visit www.connswatergreenway.co.uk

:New bridge to be named at Orangefield Lane.

A Worthy Fight Eason’s & Son Ltd, recently announced a three year sponsorship to support the Fighting Words project in Belfast and invite schools, community groups and volunteers to get involved. Based in the heart of East Belfast at Skainos, Fighting Words is rapidly establishing itself as a leading creative writing centre for children and young people.

The project offers free creative writing workshops for groups of young people aged 6-18 years. Participants set out on a story-writing journey, working at first collaboratively and then individually to create new stories, all leave as published writers with their own illustrated storybook. The partnership will run over a three year period and will donate charity tins in Eason’s stores throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Founded in 1999 by booker prize winning author Roddy Doyle and Sean Love, and launched in 2015 in Belfast, Fighting Words aims to provide primary and secondary level students with the chance and space to explore their imaginations through free creative writing workshops, whilst also helping to improve selfexpression, literacy, self- esteem and self-confidence.

Fighting Words patron Glen Patterson said: “My first job when I left school was in Crane’s bookshop in Belfast. I loved being sent (and would try to dream up reasons to be sent) to the Eason’s warehouse on Donegall Street.

Now there was a treasure trove. I get a little reminder of that today, every time I walk down the stairs of the Eason’s in Belfast. I get a reminder of it when I walk up the stairs to Fighting Words. Something is about to happen, you don’t know what yet, but whatever it is it won’t be dull.”

Fighting Words Belfast is supported by a partnership between Young at Art, Fighting Words Dublin and The 174 Trust. Fighting Words Belfast has received funding from The Department of

Fighting Words patron Glen Patterson (right) with Brendan Corbett (Easons) and children from the project.

Foreign Affairs and Trade Ireland and The Ireland Funds. The partners’ principal funders include Arts Council Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council and Youth Council Northern Ireland.

Fighting Words Belfast is looking for schools, community groups and volunteers to get involved. If you would like to bring a group of young people to a free Fighting Words Belfast workshop, volunteer and / or find out more about up-coming events call us on 028 9023 0660 or visit www.youngatart.co.uk.

East Belfast Life 25

East Belfast : Social

An Evening of Beauty Friends and clients joined Beauty Culture, Bloomfield Avenue, for a lovely evening of demonstrations of the new IS clinical ‘Fire and Ice’ facial treatment, bareMinerals make up, Dermalogica face mapping, goodie bags and product offers. Guests were treated to Prosecco and nibbles, before a raffle was held in aid of Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children. The Beauty Culture team were also delighted to receive ‘Belfast Beauty Salon of the Year’ in the recent Northern Ireland Hair and Beauty Awards!

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Kathy Hamilton and Anne Duff.

Linda Dornan, Stella Bell and Grace Carson.

Gillian Ross and Sarah Piper.

Miss NI Leanne McDowell and Beauty Culture proprietor Caroline Purdy.

Ruth Fargher, Caroline Purdy and Nicola Mathews.

Caroline Purdy and Michelle Cowan.

Makeover demonstration by Debbie Adams.

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East Belfast Life

a skin care system researched and developed by The International Dermal Institute

a skin care system researched and developed by The International Dermal Institute

a skin care system researched and developed by The International Dermal Institute

Guinot Dermalogica BareMinerals Crystal Clear microdermabrasion HD Brows CND mani/pedi/Shellac Lava shell massage Universal contour body wrap Bio surface peel Advanced waxing Fantasy Tan spray tan 3D lash extensions

Beauty Culture Beauty Culture 1a

beauty culture belfast Beauty Culture

Online booking available Download the app, available for iPhone users.

Winners of

Best Beauty Salon Belfast 2015

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

East Belfast : Social Continued from page 26

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Serena Buckley and Eilish Patterson.

Cathy Galway and Brenda Shearer.

Demonstrations at Beauty Culture.

Anne Cooke and Rachel Shields.

Stella Bell and Caroline Purdy.

Rachel Hindes and Suzanne Minnis.

Gail Templeton and Sian Early.

Caroline Purdy and Harriet Porter.

Kids Korner Greenwood wins 2016 Families First, Centre of Excellence in Childcare Award

There are two Kids Korner Day Nurseries located in Belfast. Kids Korner Greenwood is situated off the Upper Newtownards Road in Ballyhackamore, opposite Greenwood Primary School. At Greenwooed we cater for children between the ages of 6 weeks-11 years. Kids Korner Ravenhill is situated on Ravenhill Road on the corner of Ravensdene Park, opposite Ormeau Golf Club.

At Ravenhill we cater for children between the ages of 6 weeks - 5 years. Kids Korner Day Nurseries are registered with Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and are members of Early Years, the organisation for young children. We have a strong emphasis on treating all children as individuals and caring for them in a warm, homely and loving environment. Children will be encouraged to develop at their own pace and care will be tailored to suit their individual needs. Kids Korner encourages the physical, emotional and social development of each child. Quality childcare is provided by our team of friendly, professionally qualified staff.

We are so pleased to have won the Centre of Excellence in Childcare Award at the prestigious Families First Award Ceremony. These awards shine a light on the work done by nurseries across Northern Ireland, and to win was an incredible achievement for everyone involved at Kids Korner.

environment... y l e m o e in a h r a c d l ...Professional chi OUR CARE

The Children are cared for in different rooms of the nursery based on their age and stage of development.

Babies ( 6weeks to 12 months) The young babies are accommodated in a bright, homely room and different activities suited to the baby’s stage of development are offered. There are a range of safe, bright and stimulating toys available and regular visits to the park are incorporated into the daily routine.

There is a separate sleep room.

Teenies (12 - 18 Months) The Teenies are based in a large, bright room with different age related toys which have been selected in order to help develop motor and cognitive skills. More independence is encouraged at this stage.

From the ball pit to building blocks, from painting to music, there are lots of activities to keep the Teenies entertained.

Tiny Tots (18 - 24 Months) Tiny tots are beginning to become much more independent. With lots of fun activities going on, a day in the life of a Tiny Tot is very busy.

Toodlers (24 Months - 3 Years) A wide variety of activities are available at this stage such as painting, sand and water play. Regular visits to the park are included into the daily routine as much as possible.

Pre School (3 Years onwards) A Pre Schooler’s day is much more structured in preparation for starting school.

Activities include painting, cooking, play dough and dressing up.

After School (Greenwood Only) Local school collections are offered and homework can be supervised if required.

Lots of fun activities are available every afternoon.

Kids Korner Day Nurseries Ltd 2 Greenwood Avenue, Belfast, BT4 3JJ Tel: 028 9067 3333 Email: gillian@kidskornerdaynurseries.com Web: www.kidskornerdaynurseries.com 460 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 0BU Tel: 028 9064 6648 Email: louise@kidskornerdaynurseries.com Web: www.kidskornerdaynurseries.com

Opening Hours

Full Time Session: 7:30am - 6:00pm Part Time Sessions: 7:30am - 1:30pm & 1:30pm - 6:00pm

East Belfast : Social

East Belfast Students Bring IT On

Top of the Class

Pupils from Campbell College took part in an I.T workshop as part of the Bring IT On programme delivered by IT3Sixty in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning and Belfast Metropolitan College. Nearly three quarters of the 5000 who attend the careers presentation say they are more likely to take up a career in IT as a result. Indeed applications for computing-related degrees in Northern Ireland have increased by more than 90% over the last seven years, demonstrating the impact of programmes such as Bring IT On.

Caroline Millar from east Belfast has celebrated success at the Ulster University Business School. Caroline won the Labour Relations Agency Prize for the best dissertation submitted during her post graduate MSc in Human Resource Management course.

Speaking at the Awards ceremony, Professor Heather Farley, Head of the Department, said, “These Awards recognise our top performers across the range of management and leadership related programmes and confirm why we are so justifiably proud of our graduates.

To build on its success and reach a younger audience, Bring IT On has now been joined by Junior Bring IT On, designed for 8 – 12 year olds. At the same time a programme of Cyber Security Workshops has been going out to junior schools: more than 500 10 – 11 year olds have found out about staying safe online, beating cyber-bullying, and a day in the life of a cyber-professional.

Caroline Millar (centre) received her Award from Marie Mallon (Chair, Labour Relations Agency) and acting Course Director Dr Bob Mason at the annual Ulster University Business School’s Student Awards.

Ben McMorris, Daniel Matchett-Griffiths and James Hutton.

New Library for Downey House Downey House, Preparatory Department of Methodist College Belfast, recently celebrated the opening of its new library. Well-known local author Liz Weir came along to the event to conduct a workshop with the children before opening the library and mingling with guests.

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Alan Jennings, Jay Maini, Pankaj Maini and Anne Cunningham.

The PTA Committee - Lauren Jordan, Tori Ball, Hazel Alexander-Law, Tara Patterson, Sarah Thompson, Maureen McAlindon, Sue Wilton, Nadine McKnight and Elaine McGhee.

Liz Weir, Fiona McBrien-Harrison, Alan Jennings, Heather Collier, Elaine McGhee, Maureen McAlindon and Elaine Patterson.

East Belfast : COLUMN

JaynegIBSON

MSc FPFS Chartered FCSI - Chartered Financial Planner

looking for peace of mind

Jayne Gibson discusses the changes in pension legislation and their effects on you.

With successive changes in legislation, pensions have become infinitely more accessible for individuals with personal pensions.

The new flexibilities introduced in April 2015 have meant real lifestyle changes for many planning their retirement. Having complete flexibility in terms of how much and when benefits are drawn post age 55 means that pensions can now adapt to the lifestyle that you want rather than the other way around. The taxation of death benefits has also greatly enhanced the usefulness of pensions as a lifestyle planning tool.

Unfortunately, many of these flexibilities are not available to members of defined benefit occupational pension schemes.

However, it is possible to access these benefits by transferring to a personal pension. For many the guarantees offered by the scheme will far outweigh the benefits on transfer. Nevertheless, there are some circumstances where a transfer could be beneficial.

with non-dependent children who would not be entitled to receive anything apart from the balance of any guarantee period in the event of death.

Where individuals wish to access tax free cash, but defer income, the only option available would be a transfer to a personal pension. Where an individual does not fit into the scheme profile (for example, they do not have a legal spouse or civil partner), it is important to understand the benefits that may or may not be payable in the event of death.

It is also extremely important to understand the funding status of a defined benefit pension scheme. Where there is a deficit the scheme is reliant on the sponsoring employer having sufficient funds to make this up. If the sponsoring employer is also in financial difficulty, there is a possibility that the scheme will not be able to meet member benefits in full.

Occupational schemes will only pay death benefits to financial dependents, and only then at the discretion of the trustees if they do not fit the scheme profile. This is particularly relevant for divorcees, or those

Advising on these types of pensions is highly technical and complex, to the extent that the Government introduced new legislation requiring individuals to access appropriate independent advice only from individuals

255a Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3JF

who have specific qualifications and regulatory permissions from the Financial Conduct Authority.

GWM Solutions Ltd offers this very specialised advice and has recently opened a new office in the heart of Ballyhackamore.

We offer professional specialist advice across the whole of the UK as well as locally in Northern Ireland.

We are currently offering a discounted pensions health check to members of occupational pension schemes wishing to investigate flexibility or just looking for peace of mind in terms of their retirement plans.

Please contact Jayne Gibson or Julie Wilson on 028 9590 2280 to make an appointment or request further details.

Telephone: 028 9095 2280 Email: jayne@gwmpts.com

GWM Solutions Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Network Direct Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

East Belfast Life 31

East Belfast : People in Profile

Councillor for the Titanic Ward, Sonia Copeland tells us...

“WHY I LOVE...

East BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE?

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK?

I joined the RUC when I was 18 years of age after leaving Knockbreda High School, because I wanted to follow in the traditions of my family. After early retirement because of an injury on duty, I qualified as a counsellor from the Belfast Metropolitan College. After having survived cancer about 25 years ago, I wanted to work in this field, so I am currently a counsellor for two charities which are close to my heart, counselling clients with cancer, or their families, and bereavement counselling to those families who have lost someone to cancer. I find this work immensely rewarding.

My typical day starts with the arrival of my 4-year-old grandson, who I look after until 5pm each day. When I drop him off at nursery at mid-day, I cover whatever constituency house calls I have or attend community meetings. After I pick him up at 2.30pm I spend time with him before dropping him home at to attend committee or council meetings. The evenings are usually catching up on constituency e-mails or counselling clients.

In May 2014 I decided, with trepidation and manipulation, from others to go into the political arena, so I ran for the local council election, topping the pole for the Ulster Unionist Party in the Titanic Ward of east Belfast. I guess at the heart of all the careers from leaving school where all geared towards giving and helping others who needed extra support, to cope with or change their lives.

To be honest I have little spare time as working as a counsellor and councillor, takes up all of my time during the week.

However, Sundays are a family day in my house, and I love to cook a good Sunday dinner and eat around the table catching up on the lives of my grown up children. On Saturdays I love to browse around the craft shops or spend time making patchwork quilts.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

Little Wing in Ballyhackamore is Sonia’s favourite restaurant in east Belfast.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WORKING IN EAST BELFAST? I love the people of east Belfast, they are friendly and so humorous.

What you see is what you get with them, and they tell you how it is!

Where ever I walk within east Belfast I will always bump into someone I know, and always get a bit of craic from them.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO SOCIALISE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? When I do manage to get some spare time, I usually spend time with my friends who live in Sydenham, having girlie nights in each others homes. Catching up on each others lives over a glass of wine and nibbles.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Lunchtime at the Welders Club is a must for great food, I absolutely love their chicken curry. It’s always busy and always has a buzz around it.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY?

Sonia loves the friendliness and humour of her constituents in the Titanic Ward of east Belfat.

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East Belfast Life

My favourite restaurant within east Belfast is Little Wing Pizzeria, I especially love the Carnivore Calzone and especially the Nutella Pizza.

The pizzas are cooked in a traditional wood stone oven, in full view of the customers. It’s a great place to take my grandson, it’s a really warm and friendly atmosphere.

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East Belfast : Social

A Grand Opening EH Services recently launched Northern Ireland’s first Panasonic Store at its premises on Belfast’s Montgomery Road. The new in-store Panasonic area was officially opened by BBC NI’s Stephen Watson during a weekend long celebration where visitors had the opportunity to avail of fantastic offers and win exclusive prizes; including a 40” 4K Smart TV. Vi and Ian Patterson, who opened the family run EH Services almost 50 years ago, were also there to celebrate the launch. With Christmas fast approaching there is no better time, or store, to visit to secure that essential viewing experience and the store is able to offer, a free 6 year guarantee, on selected Viera Televisions

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02. John and Anne Guiney with Frances and Jackie Millen.

03. The EH Services Panasonic Showroom.

04. Stephen Watson with the EH Services team.

05. Julian Patterson and Stephen Watson officially open

the Panasonic showroom.

06. Frances Millen and Gillian Patterson.

07. Tara and Julian Patterson with Joshua Patterson, Jim, Jamie and Joe

Thompson from Harlequins mini rugby.

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Health Screening Analysis Available at Framar Health What is the Asyra pro?

The Asyra Pro machine is a Bio-feedback testing system that measures the body’s response to energy frequencies. The machine provides a completely noninvasive method of analysis, no blood or scratch tests are involved.

What can it test for?

The Asyra Pro machine helps to identify various weaknesses and system imbalances. Your test may highlight nutritional deficiencies, digestive imbalances, allergies, food sensitivities and hormonal imbalances.

What do the results tell me?

The results give you a clear snapshot of how your body is functioning at the time of the test, indicating areas of weakness and stress that may be contributing to existing health concerns. These results can be used by the practitioner to identify

patterns or trends that will help formulate an individualised therapeutic approach.

Who can be tested?

The test is suitable for adults and children over the age of 3 years. However it is not suitable for those with pace makers over 10 years old.

How long does the test take?

The Asyra pro test appointment is for one hour and during that hour you will have immediate access to your test results in addition to consultation and advice from the practitioner. Follow up appointments are available and last for ½ hour.

Does the test diagnose?

The Asyra pro is not a diagnostic device and does not look for any particular diseased state or condition. Always consult with your GP if you have any health concerns.

FivE HEALTH STOrEThaT ESSEnTiALS EvEry HOME SHOuLd HAvE fiVe fOOds fiGhT inflammaTiOn EPSOM SALTS This old Inflammatory activity plays an essential role in our bodies healing and repair processes; fashioned remedy however, if this inflammatory activity is not is making a major properly controlled it can contributebecause to chronic comeback illness. Conditions such as arthritis, autoimmune bathing regularly in conditions and chronic skin conditions arehave all epsom salts can promoted by inflammation.

The food we eat a number of that health can play a significant role in either promoting benefits.

Relaxing in or reducing inflammation in our bodies; here an epsom salt bath for half an hour allows are my top 5 anti-inflammatory foods. magnesium to absorb through the skin into our muscles. An epsom salt bath is the perfect Oily fish remedy for aching muscles if you’ve had a Oily fishgym is probably tough session or have aching shoulders the powerful aftermost sitting at your desk all day. The sulphur anti-inflammatory in these salts works as a natural detoxifier and food as it iscombat the can help water retention, celebrities best dietary such as Victoria Beckham use epsom salt source of the baths prior to special appearances to ensure good omega-3 they look their best. fats. These good fats are converted into anti-inflammatory APPLE cidEr vinEgAr A relatively common messengers while also preventing the ingredient that is production of pro-inflammatory messengers delicious when that useda in our bodies. Clinical trials have found dress a salad, regular intake of oily fish to can have a beneficial however, thisArthritis. humble impact on symptoms of Rheumatoid condiment Try having oily fish such as mackerel,has salmon, potential sardines and trout three numerous times a week to see the health benefits. It can benefits. be used as a natural remedy for indigestion and heartburn, try drinking a small glass of GinGer andjust Turmeric water with apple cider vinegar before or after Not only are ginger a meal.

There is evidence that apple cider and turmeric vinegar can essential for asupport blood sugar balance for those tasting who are watching their blood glucose great levels.orDrinking curry stir fry, a little apple cider vinegar in wateralso canhave also help reduce sinus congestion they and it can also be dabbed on pimples as a anti-inflammatory properties. natural spotThe remedy. pigment that gives turmeric its yellow colour is called curcumin andcOcOnuT it can reduce OiLthe Long activity of pro-inflammatory messengers. considered unhealthy Ginger contains a substance called because of itsgingerols high and these too are known to calmfat symptoms saturated content,of inflammation includingwe swelling and pain. now know that Try using fresh ginger a fewcoconut times a week in cooking oil contains

healthy fats that the bodycurry can once use readily and make a turmeric-rich a week. as an energy source. These fats are called medium chain triglycerides exTra VirGin OliVe Oiland our body converts them tothe substances called ketones Long considered whichof can used by both the body and secret thebe healthy brain for energy.

Coconut oil is a source Mediterranean diet of natural and anti-fungal extra virgin anti-bacterial olive oil iscompounds known to contain making it an excellent treatment specific compounds for skin conditions and in a recent clinical trial that as athat natural theyact found coconut oil was successful in anti-inflammatory.

Inyoung children. treating eczema in fact the substance oleocanthol, which gives olive oil its peppery flavour was found Ato have PrObiOTicS pain relieving activity equal to ibuprofen and probiotic supplement is also effective when applied to the skin.

Dress is a capsule or powder vegetables or salads with raw extra olive packed withvirgin billions oil every day as you won’t experience the same of live bacteria, but benefits when you cook with it. don’t let that put you off. Probiotics are good bacteria that live in TOmaTOes our digestive system and play an essential The rolehumble in keeping us healthy. Think of these tomato contains supplements as a super concentrated form the pigment of those little yoghurt drinks many of us have lycopene, which with breakfast every day. Supporting a healthy is a powerful population of good bacteria in our intestines antioxidant keeps our digestive system working properly and antiand can help reduce symptoms such as inflammatory. In fact by cooking a tomato you bloating,itsconstipation and diarrhoea.

They do increase lycopene content so a roasted all this while alsocooked protecting us from infection tomato or a slow tomato sauce will (especially tummy bugs) anda supporting provide more lycopene than raw tomatoour so immune system of Spaghetti our immune system is why not cook up a(70% lovely Bolognese. in our gut).is known to play an important role in Lycopene reducing prostate inflammation. viTAMin d Vitamin D is known as the sunshine sunshine vitamin because when Ok, so it’s not exactly a food and the sun shines on our skin it stimulates the production we don’t really have ready access of vitamin D in our bodies. will comeinas no surprise that as a result of toIt sunshine living in our climate many of us become Northern Ireland, vitamin Dthe deficient however, action during winter. In fact in Ireland ofNorthern sunshine on ourwe do not produce vitamin D skin stimulates a in the period between October and May and, chemical in us will benefit from taking therefore,process many of

a vitamin D supplement this time. our body that results in theduring production of vitamin D.Vitamin VitaminDDisiswell more commonly associated with known for its protective effect bone health but more on bone health, but itrecent plays research numerousindicates other that it has anroles important in controlling important for our role health.

Vitamin D is inflammation and autoimmune activity.

Thiswhile may crucially important to our immune health explain why many individuals with inflammatory also acting as a natural anti-inflammatory and conditions find they improve in the and it can support mood in those whosummer experience get the winter. theworse winterinblues.

Always consult with a qualified nutritional advisor or your GP before taking a nutritional supplement.

Sarah Trimble Nutritional Therapist mBANT mCNHC

framar health 595 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GS Tel: 028 9068 1018 Tel: 028 1015 Fax: 0289068 90662891 Email: info@framarhealth.com Website: www.framarhealth.com East Belfast Life 35

East Belfast Life 02

East Belfast : Social

Celebrating Three Great Years Award winning salon owner Norah McNally recently celebrated her third anniversary at her ‘Salon For Men’ in Ballyhackamore.

Customers sampled some of Belfast’s finest food and drink on the evening; Jack and Norah cocktails, Gallopers Ale and some Youngbuck from Mikes Fancy Cheese. Suitor Menswear demonstrated their sharp threads and Bang&Olufsen played some beautifully balanced sounds. Prizes on the evening were donated by Bang & Olufsen, Suitor Menswear Belfast, Knock Golf Club, American Crew and Comfort Zone. The night was a great success, with Norah thanking each and everyone of our customers for their loyalty.

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01. Jacqui Ogle, Phil and Leah Albert and Kevin Munro.

02. Morgan McNally, Norah McNally, Jennifer Gillespie, Louise McFall,

Veronika Zajacova and Jai Booth.

03. Jude Farrelly, Jenny Lemon and Claire Kerr.

04. Veronika Zajacova with Kim and Hilti McCabe.

05. Robbie and Claire Kerr.

06. Jacob, Nina and Barry Moore with Chris Suitor

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East Belfast : Social

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07. Stephen Boyd, Chris McAleese, Louise McFall

and David Wright.

08. Anne and Ian McKeown with George Cooke.

09. Chris Muren, Karl Rafferty and Declan Holmes.

10. Jenny Lemon, Seamus Hanna and Robbie Kerr.

11. Louise McFall, Gary Walker and Victoria Sellar.

12. Morgan McNally, George Munro and Norah McNally.

13. Chris Suitor and Jude Farrelly.

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East Belfast Life 37

East Belfast : sport

Fred proudly holding the Steel & Sons Cup.

Loyal Service Fred Magee has been associated with Harland & Wolff Welders FC for more than four decades. His work behind the scenes has been pivotal to the success and expansion of the club.

Steel & Sons cups, but there are also some great memories of our climb up the various leagues, and of course the wonderful relationships I have had with players over the years. Lowlights are to me when you lose, but I suppose losing a Steel & Sons Cup final sticks in my mind, especially on that particular occasion we were leading at one stage.

How did you first get involved with The Welders?

My connection with the Welders began some 45 years ago, I had left my previous club Dundonald and was taking a short break from the game when I was asked to fill in for the Welders at fixture meetings. This was to be a short time only but here I am still there.

I never thought it would last as long as this.

What have been the highlights and lowlights from your time as secretary?

The highlights for me have to be winning two

What have been the biggest changes at the club in your time there?

There have been many changes at the club, we were in second division of the Amateur League when I joined and we are now playing in the Championship, which is quite a big step in terms of local football.

Any funny dressing room / team stories that you could share with us?

There are so many stories, but I would be doubtful if you could print them!

Sponsorship Boost

The club obviously takes up a lot of your time, but have you any other hobbies / interests outside of football?

As I am retired I have time to spare for my duties and I enjoy the involvement, especially with the players. I don’t really have any other outside interests, just watching any outside sports.

What does the future hold for the Welders?

We are in the process of moving to a new ground which will be state of the art with all facilities up to Irish League standard.

Everyone is very excited about this, but it will be a year or two to get everything completed. We have nine teams under our umbrella Harland Youth and we are hoping to provide much needed pitches etc for all these up and coming players for the future.

This will be the realisation of a dream and we can’t wait to see it materialise.

East Belfast side Harland Youth Football Club recently announced a raft of new kit sponsorships.

Archana Indian Restaurant, Dublin Road, has become the official home kit sponsor for the Under 16’s, ProSafe will sponsor the away kit or the Under 12’s and WJ Desano, Newtownards Road, has sponsored the Under 16’s Colts new away kit. Mark Brown, Coach of Harland Youth Under 16’s said: “We are delighted to have these great local sponsors on board and we are looking forward to years of success together.”

Top left: Under 16 Colts with the new kit sponsored by WJ Desano. Bottom left: The new Under 16 home kit sponsored by Archana. Below: The Under 12’s with their new ProSafe kit.

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East Belfast Life

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Do you find that it's not possible to use your conservatory all year round, because it's either or both too cold in winter and too hot in summer?

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East Belfast : People in Profile

Andrea Montgomery, Artistic Director of east Belfast based intercultural theatre company Terra Nova Productions, tell us….

“WHY I LOVE...

East BELFAST” Andrea is Canadian, but was born in India and grew up in Switzerland and south east Asia. She currently lives in east Belfast with her singer songwriter husband Anthony Toner.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? I’ve always been interested in the arts, but especially theatre. I can remember putting on shows in my parents’ garage as a child when we lived in Switzerland. By the time I was in secondary school I was writing and performing; we lived in Jakarta then. I studied theatre (Shakespeare) at University in Canada, and set up my first company when I moved to London in 1990. I ran that for almost ten years.

We toured all over the UK. During this time I had some interesting opportunities to work as a consultant using my directing skills on planning on large-scale civil projects: I worked on the London Eye, the Southbank, the Wales Millennium Centre and the Science Museum amongst others. I was offered a chance to take seven shows to Edinburgh Festival in 1999, followed by work on touring and West End projects, then running a repertory theatre. A few years after that, I was ready for a change and was looking for work in Australia when Andrea and her husband Anthony are supporters of The Strand Arts Centre.

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East Belfast Life

I was offered the job of Artistic Director at the Riverside Theatre in Coleraine. After four years at the Riverside, I was missing international connections, so I decided to set up Terra Nova Productions as Northern Ireland’s first intercultural theatre company. It was exciting to have the opportunity to work overseas: three times in Macau, Hong Kong, Iran in 2009 and Greenland in 2013. Not running a building meant more opportunity to write as well as direct and produce – less time spent worrying about the state of the roof.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK? I hate to shatter people’s illusions but even for a writer, director and performer, my life is about 85% administration and compliance work.

There are also a lot of anti-social hours – we often do 60 hour weeks as a matter of course. What makes it worthwhile are the moments when you get to see a vision or an idea you’ve had come to life.

For example, I recently was in a room with fellow artists: choreographers, a 3D sound designer, a composer and my associate director, as the designer Niall Rea unveiled the set model for our new production

East Belfast : People in Profile

East Belfast : People in Profile

Restorative: Andrea loves the calm surroundings of Victoria Park.

- ‘Belfast Tempest’. It was a 1-in-50 reproduction of the Belfast Tempest set which will be built in T13 warehouse, Queen’s Island. It included a real beach with real water, clouds, and a magical hexagonal tower like the giant’s causeway made of books. The reality is going to be 28 metres long, with audiences sitting all around on shipwrecks, so it was pretty exciting to look at the model, and discuss where the 19 hidden speakers were going to go for the 3d sound, and whether the character of Caliban really could enter from under water – we shall see.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? When a project like the Belfast Tempest is at its height there isn’t much spare time for anything besides eating and sleeping, so I tend to go for total relaxation when I get a chance. I enjoy reading, photography, and I love drawing cartoons, but probably my favourite relaxation is wild swimming. When I get the chance, I love to retreat into the wilds of Quebec. We have a 1920s cabin, a shack really, in the woods on

the Gatineau River. We sleep in the screened in porch, amongst the trees. I just swim, canoe, lie on the dock reading, and maybe scratch the occasional mosquito bite. It’s bliss. Just water and trees. When I can’t get there I walk on the inner circle in Victoria Park and look at the trees. They are very restorative. I have captured some lovely sunlit moments featuring Victoria Park trees.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING/working IN EAST BELFAST? I love how close it is to the city centre. I can jump on my bike and be in the Cathedral Quarter or St George’s Market in 15 minutes. I also love the village atmosphere on the Belmont Road. I can go there to have a meeting or a meal, then pop across the street to get great fruit and veg from Mr Piper. There is a health food store, a butcher with hundreds of eggs for sale straight from the farm, an ironmonger, restaurants, bakeries. It’s fantastic. I love living in east Belfast and I am really excited about the Belfast Tempest in the Titanic Quarter drawing people into this part of the city. There are interesting stories, real history in east Belfast.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GET OUT & ABOUT IN EAST BELFAST? My husband and I are supporters of the Strand Cinema. We also love walking in Victoria Park. I often meet people in Bennet’s Café, on Belmont; it’s my local. You can’t beat it for a great Sunday brunch with friends. We really discovered the Park Avenue Hotel during the last Eastside Arts Festival. I also like to pop into Boundary Brewing, Portview Trade Centre – I loved attending the Eastside Arts Festival launch there last year.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Mr Warrick’s Butcher on the Old Holywood Road. He’s a perfectly nice butcher but his sausages are sublime. He should be knighted for his Christmas cranberry and stilton recipe alone. I’ve eaten sausages across the globe, so when I say they’re a knockout you can trust me. I cook them for guests who visit from around the world.

Great food: Il Pirata in Ballyhackamore is one of Andrea’s favourite restaurants in east Belfast.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Il Pirata, Ballyhackamore. It’s social, friendly, great food to share, nice cocktails, and I have a giggle every time I pop into the ladies and see the old KFC fixtures. So witty.

East Belfast Life 41

East Belfast : Social

Art Exhibition at Lagan College Staff from the Art & Design Department at Lagan College, held an exhibition of their work in the newly renovated Lisnabreeny House.

The evening was well attended by staff and students, past and present, along with parents and friends of the College.

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Chris Burns and Laurence Fay. Danielle Collins, Paul Burch and Janice Russell.

Helen Tomb and Chris Wood.

Jacqui Rogan, Danielle Collins, Deborah Hill, Paul Burch, Gillian Cooke, Emma Niblock and Clare Taggart.

Leona Tate, Corey and Ashton McClean.

Yvonne and Vince Murphy, Jacqui Rogan, Katie Murphy and Ivy Kalungi.

Lagan College Staff Art Show Peter Mulholland with family Ryan, Elena and Leah.

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East Belfast Life

New Art Gallery for East Belfast Greetings from all of us at Whalley Fine Art & Framing! We have some great news we’d like to share with you….we are moving from Holywood were we have been established for over 8 years now to new larger premises! The building is set just at the east Belfast side of Craigantlet hill near Massey Avenue and is a beautiful converted stable building, full of character and set in the grounds of an estate measuring over 27 acres. The building itself is set within a courtyard and has a fully dedicated car park which will make it easy to come and visit us without the rush of moving your car in the Holywood High Street setting!

Gallery owner Stephen Whalley has a life passion in collecting art and over the past 8 years since opening, has represented some high profile artists in various shows and art fairs throughout the UK & Ireland and as far as America.

Stephen commented “We have seen a rise in the buying of art over the past 3 years and needed to expand our business to a larger building. We are fortunate to move to such an amazing location and setting which is steeped in local history. I was born and bred in east Belfast and I feel as if it is perfect timing to be opening and expanding into a new gallery and office space.

“The new gallery will also act as a new studio space for my wife Dawn Crothers who has became a household name in Northern Ireland

being famous for painting her ‘Snail’ paintings.

We intend to also use the new building as a base to export Dawn’s new product ranges worldwide over the next 2 years and have already been in meetings with large chain stores throughout Ireland who love the whole ethos and design of her products!”

Dawn’s paintings have been our biggest seller at the gallery over the past 8 years and her expanding fan base means Dawn will be also setting up a small studio space in the new premises for people to come and visit her!

The gallery will be taking on some great new artists and will give us some more valuable space to exhibit and to expand our already busy framing business.

To keep up to date digitally please follow us on our social media pages and or please send us an email and we will add your details to our online newsletter mailing list, where you will receive regular updates and exclusive invitations to our exhibitions and events.

We look forward to seeing you at the new gallery premises and some of the great shows we have lined up over the coming year, including our grand opening near the end of April!

The Courtyard - 378a Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2NG www.whalleyfineart.com info@whalleyfineart.com East Belfast Life 43

East Belfast : Social

Looking Back ‘Newtownbreda’, by local historian Aidan Campbell, was published recently at Hillmount Garden Centre, Gilnahirk. It follows on from the publication of 11 local history books covering areas of East Belfast and on this occasion is about an area of South Belfast. Like previous titles the Newtownbreda story is an illustrated and spoken history which includes lots of old photographs and reminiscences about life in the area over the past century. The launch event was well attended and book sales raised over £1,000 for local charity.

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Brian Reid, Carrie Dixon, Aidan Campbell, Lena Reid, Robin Kilpatrick, Lydia Coates, Ally Bennett and Oban the dog.

Stuart Collins, Christine and Aidan Campbell and Juanita Collins.

Derek MacAfee and David Elwood.

Jean and Brian Eve. Ruth and Maurice Bingham with Helen Gillanders.

Wesley Thompson, Mayor of Lisburn Thomas Beckett, Aidan Campbell and John McClelland.

Doris McGuffin and Anne McMurray.

Susan Mayes, Irene Kilpatrick, Kayreen Allan and Kathleen Woods.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : Social

Eastside Arts gets Involved in National Creative Campaign Inspired by BBC Get Creative Day EastSide Arts will host FREE workshops encouraging people in the East to Get Creative!

BBC Get Creative Day (Saturday 2 April) is a celebration of the worldclass arts, culture and creativity that happens across the UK, from digital art to fine art, from design to ballet, from poetry to hip-hop, Get Creative celebrates all art forms. EastSide Arts is delighted to be involved in this nationwide event that offers the opportunity to highlight some of the wealth of creative talent which exists in East Belfast. Inspired by Get Creative Day and Creativity Month, where hundreds of creative events will be happening across the province in March, EastSide Arts will host a number of workshops promoting local artists and giving people the opportunity to try something different, for free.

With past pupils that include Snow Patrol Guitarist Nathan Connelly, Ossia Music School, based on Sandown Road in Ballyhackamore, provides a safe and fun environment in which to explore, learn and grow as a musician. Ossia will open their studio doors for Get Creative Day with a special performance featuring some great local bands that have been taught or mentored through the Ossia Rock School programme. Local

dance company Ajendance have recently qualified thirty of their students for the United Dance Organisation World Street Dance Championships in August 2016. With ages ranging from 5 years to 20 years old and classes in Hip-Hop, Ballet, Tap and more, Ajendance offer something for everyone.

A free showcase on Get Creative Day will give people the chance to watch the talented dancers who will compete in the summer Championships perform, and maybe get inspired to start dancing themselves!

EastSide Arts will be hosting FREE workshops throughout March in Memoir Writing with Tara West, Digital Animation with Wheelworks, Craft with Redhead Thread and a special taster workshop with Ciara O’Malley which will allow people to experiment with a variety of different creative forms such as drawing, painting and film making. Why not get involved and Get Creative with EastSide Arts?

Simply check out the full programme of events on the website www.eastsidearts.net/events.

East Belfast Life 45

East Belfast : Social

margey to stage Spring Exhibitions in Derry~Londonderry & Portrush Portrush based artist Adrian Margey will be launching his 2016 exhibition series with two major shows this spring. His first sale of work took place at the Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry on Easter weekend. The second will run at the Ramada Hotel Portrush over the May Bank Holiday Weekend (Friday 29th April – Monday 2nd May). Both collections will feature stunning contemporary depictions of Ulster’s iconic landmarks and landscapes.

The North West, North Coast and County Donegal will feature strongly. Cityscape is another important theme explored in the exhibitions with striking representations of the Maiden City and Belfast also on show. Margey’s ever-popular traditional Irish musician and dancer pieces will appeal to a wide range of buyers. The artist’s gallery and studio space at the junction of Mark Street and Main Street Portrush will remain open to visitors over the Easter weekend. Visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone 07841593762 for full details.

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1. ‘Causeway Bold’. 2. ‘Peace Bridge’ 3. ‘Playing at Portballintrae’ 4. ‘Dunluce Castle’ by Adrian Margey. 5. ‘Autumn on Shipquay’. 6. Artist Adrian Margey

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East Belfast : FASHION

Back in Town

This season backpacks are making a chic comeback. Forget the practical bags you wore to lessons and welcome the more subtle and stylish versions this spring.

Therapy white backpack, £45 (House of Fraser).

Burnt orange backpack, £35 (ASOS).

Soft leather backpack, £125 (COS).

Black tassel drop backpack, £19.99 (New Look at Rushmere Shopping Centre).

Sandy tassel detail backpack, £45 (Monsoon at Rushmere Shopping Centre).

Charlie backpack, £17 (Accessorize at Rushmere Shopping Centre).

Grey drawstring backpack, £69 (House of Fraser).

Butterfly by Matthew Williamsonbackpack, £45 (Debenhams).

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East Belfast Life

EATING OUT: EAST OF THE CITY

East Belfast is bursting with culinary delights, so why not check out our guide and treat yourself to gourmet heaven, east of the city.

East Belfast is bursting with choice when it comes to food. Whether it’s a quick coffee and sweet mid afternoon treat you’re craving, a fantastic sandwich to brighten up your lunch hour, or a full three course meal with a bottle of wine; you’re sure to have a

difficult choice on your hands. To ease the agony, we’ve carefully examined the best that east Belfast has to offer.

Our reviews and summaries are sure to guide you towards a pleasing taste and a satisfied stomach.

East Belfast Life 49

East Belfast : DINING OUT

EATING OUT: EAST OF THE CITY East Belfast is bursting with culinary delights, so check out our guide and treat yourself to some delicious food, in the east of the city.

If you are looking for somewhere to eat out, check out our guide to some of the eateries available in east Belfast. With east Belfast being firmly established on the culinary map you couldn’t be more spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. Whether your are looking for a family friendly establishment, an intimate restaurant for a romantic meal, a catch-up with friends, or a quick cup of cof-

Arc Cafe (Orangefield Presbyterian Church)

Arc is a purpose built café run by the members of the church at Orangefield. It has fast become a popular eating spot in east Belfast during the day and on Thursday and Friday evenings it takes on a very different atmosphere often with live music events. Arc is a registered charity and surplus income goes to good causes both at home and overseas

EastPoint Entertainment Village, Old Dundonald Road T: 028 9048 2771 www.bluechicagogrill.co.uk

Bennetts Bennetts is a bright airy café serving great food and drink seven days a week.

During the day it serves as a pleasant place for a quick lunch and a coffee and in the evenings it becomes an ambient cosy restaurant for a nice meal.

56 Belmont Road T: 028 9047 1670 www.cafesmart.co.uk

A convenient cosy cafe situated beside Arches Library and East Belfast Health Centre, freshly baked scones and coffees combine with amazing local produce for a memorable Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner or snack on the go from Juicy Burgers and Pulled Pork to Mexican Fajitas and Tacos, available to dine in or take away, open Mon to Sat 8 AM– 8 PM.

18 Holywood Road T: 028 9067 3549 www.bubsbistrocafe.co.uk 50

Blue Chicago Grill

Cafe Smart

Bubs Express Bistro Cafe

East Belfast Life

So why not pay a visit to east Belfast and discover a world of choice?

Boasting a unique Blues Jazz Cafe environment with intimate cosy booths, Blue Chicago Grill offers simple traditional food with an American influence.

464 Castlereagh Road T: 028 9079 9391 www.orangefield.org.uk

4 Belmont Road T: 028 9065 6590

fee and a tasty delight, east Belfast is the place to be with its wide range of choice from cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and bars available to suit everyone and every pocket.

Gaze

Gaze restaurant serves a wide selection of Chinese dishes including both traditional favourites and modern specials. With a sumptuous decor and well priced food, this is a wonderful dining destination whatever the occasion.

EastPoint Entertainment Village, Old Dundonald Road T: 028 9048 1288

With its attractive, eye catching interior displaying the work of some of the country’s most prominent artists, Cafe Smart is not just a coffee shop, it is an experience.

The Four Winds Situated on the top floor, Grill at The Four Winds offers a panorama of Belfast City and beyond. Serving great food in excellent surrounding the Grill will ensure you enjoy your visit.

111 Newton Park T: 028 9070 7970 www.thefourwinds.co.uk

General Merchants A brand new Australian themed community café, specialising in coffee and seasonal food.

481 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 2708

East Belfast : DINING OUT Graze

The Poet

8 Library Court, Newtownards Road, T: 028 9065 8658

Kings Square, Kings Road T: 028 9040 1248 www.lonelypoetbelfast.com

Nominated for best restaurant at the Ulster Tatler Awards, Graze is located in Ballyhackamore, at the heart of east Belfast.

Graze serves seasonally-inspired cuisine and has a commitment to using local and sustainable foods.

This hidden gem offers something for everyone! Warm and welcoming with a varied and delicious menu The Lonely Poet is worth a visit. You can enjoy fresh local produce served creatively accompanied with a good wine or inventive cocktail!

Horatio Todds

This firm favourite in the heart of east Belfast is the epitome of affordable quality.

Tempting menus, delicious food, excellent service and comfortable retro surroundings what more can you ask for!

406 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 3090 www.horatiotodds.com Il Pirata With its cool, trendy interior, Il Pirata offers simple rustic and Italian food. It is already a hit with the many visitors who come to Ballyhackamore seeking culinary delights 279-281, Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9067 3421 Jasmine Indian Restaurant

Situated in Ballyhackamore, Jasmine has established itself as a firm favourite with locals in east Belfast. With an extensive range of dishes on offer, the restaurant brings a real slice of authentic Indian flavour to the city.

Also with a takeaway service, why not take a taste of India home?

334 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 4280 www.jasminerestaurant.co.uk Little Wing

The Point

Established for over 10 years, this eatery offers dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. Serving freshly cooked food with a local character all day while the bar offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a drink.

195-199 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9092 1920 www.thepointbar.co.uk The Restaurant, Park Avenue Hotel The Restaurant at Park Avenue offers you a charming, elegant and relaxed atmosphere where you can indulge in good food and fine wines. The menu offers a mix of classic and contemporary dishes using fresh, seasonal produce from local suppliers.

158 Holywood Road T: 028 9065 6520 www.parkavenuehotel.co.uk SD Bells

The always busy and very popular SD Bells cafe has a highly respected reputation for serving the best teas and coffees from around the world. Pop in for a gourmet coffee and giant scone or sit down to a hearty, traditional fry.

516 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9047 1774 www.sdbellsteacoffee.com

Little Wing offers a large variety of mouth watering pizzas, coupled with tempting desserts, which should definitely satisfy the palates of its hungry customers.

Neill’s Hill

Situated at the heart of the local community in Ballyhackamore Neills Hill Brasserie is a place where you can enjoy good eating and drinking, locally and informally.

229 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 0079 www.neillshill.com

36 Belmont Road T: 028 9065 7476

Truffles

Situated in the heart of east Belfast, Truffles has become somewhat of an institution in the area. With a tantalising menu, this cafe has proved to be a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Wolfe’s Taking gourmet burgers to a whole new level, Wolfe’s only use freshly baked buns from an award winning bakery, whilst its char-grilled burgers are handmade on the premises fresh everyday with 100% prime cuts of Northern Irish Beef.

The Mandarin City

269-275 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9080 2888

Based in the heart of east Belfast on the busy Belmont Road, Thirty Six offers delicious homemade food made from the freshest local ingredients. Open daily this cosy cafe is the perfect place to stop for a hearty breakfast, tasty lunch or an afternoon sweet treat made in the kitchen.

63 Belmont Road T: 028 9047 1405

201 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 1555 www.littlewingspizzeria.com

The Mandarin City is a very popular Chinese restaurant which draws people from far and wide due to its excellent reputation. With an extensive menu, The Mandarin City offers just about every Chinese dish you can think of.

Thirty Six

Spoon Street

EastPoint Entertainment Village T: 028 9048 0377 www.wolfesburgers.co.uk

The unique self serve frozen yogurt (‘Fro-Yo’) store has been a roaring success since it opened in Ballyhackamore. With 16 rotating flavours and over 40 toppings there is ample selection and something different to try on every visit.

261 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9543 5255

East Belfast Life 51

East Belfast : Social

Stoking It Up The Stokers Halt, one of east Belfast’s newest bar/restaurants, once again provided the music, food and entertainment for another great Saturday night. As well as the usual weekend revellers and diners, there were groups out to celebrate birthdays and special occasions, all of which all helped to add to the fantastic atmosphere.

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Birthday girl Trish Szebesta celebrating with friends.

Lindsey McCracken, Allison Simpson, Patricia Black, Sheridan Cope and Danielle Foote.

Jonny Rowan, Allyn Somerville, Marion Rowan, Donal Trainor, Trevor and Chris Rowan.

Sam and Inglis Greer.

Margaret Burton and Margaret Glenfield.

Heather and David Roberts.

Simon Workman, Siobhan and Gregg Wright.

James Martin, Nigel Ruddell and Colin Foote.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : REVIEW

Defining Great Food On a bright Saturday afternoon I was given the opportunity to visit Gastronomy, a beautiful new bistro that has opened up along the main stretch in Holywood. My friend and I were greeted by the owner / manager upon arrival. We were warmly welcomed with a cup of coffee, a smile and chat and then shown to our seats. I was immediately struck by the modern, bright and open spaced interior fitting of the restaurant. Before long, the restaurant started to fill up with families, couples and friends who were out to enjoy a leisurely lunch on a sunny, spring afternoon.

We were seated by the huge window that stretched across the entire front area of the restaurant, letting plenty of light in and creating a summery atmosphere. Not long after being seated, the chef sent us out some complimentary sweet potato cappuccinos. I had never tried anything like this before. They were served in little cups and bursting with flavour - they whet our appetites and got us ready for more.

For my starter dish, my friend and I ordered their (already) famous salt and chilli chicken dish which had been recommended to us by the manager. This chicken was served with a selection of dips, pickled onion and salad.

All of the ingredients complemented each other perfectly, creating a delicious mouth watering, rich and unique taste.

For my main dish, I had the chicken curry dish. The sauce was bursting with spices and delicious flavours. The chicken was sautéed and cooked to perfection. The dish was served with basmati rice and poppadoms.

My friend went for the lasagne dish that was served with garlic bread, coleslaw and a side order of creamy champ. My friend couldn’t get enough of his food and finished every last drop on his plate! Picking our mains was a tough choice as there was so much variety 54

East Belfast Life

east BELFAST LIFE’S chloe heaney visits gastronomy, holywood

on the menu to choose from. There really was something for everyone.

We could have had fish and chips (served with only the freshest fish), risotto of the day, cajun chicken caesar salad or the signature ‘Gastro’ burger, to name a few. The A La Carte menu starts from 5pm (Tuesday to Saturday), giving you even more tasty options to choose from. In between having our main and dessert, the chef whipped us up a yummy, creamy lemon and shortbread dish that cleansed our palettes and sweetened our taste buds for dessert.

For dessert we had ice cream. The ice cream is freshly made on site and you can really tell. It was oozing with fresh and delicious flavours. Despite being full to the brim after our mains, we still managed to have room for the ice cream! Gastronomy is a family owned restaurant that are committed to what they do. We were lucky enough to meet the chef during our visit who spoke to us about the time and dedication that goes into each and every dish that is served.

Only the best, hand picked local food goes into the meals. It is clear to see that the family are all on the same page when it comes to providing great customer service and serving only the best, unique dishes that get people talking. On Sundays, you can enjoy a delicious roast dinner for just £9.95 per person and kids eat for free.

The term Gastronomy means “the art of good eating” and within just a few weeks of opening, they have certainly perfected this dictionary definition!

This is a family who know what they are doing and are committed to creating a warm, friendly and welcoming place to dine in style, at an affordable price.

2 Sullivan Place, Holywood T: 028 9543 7639

gastronomy CAFE /ga’strɒnəmi/ noun: the art of good eating

BISTRO

Anyone who has been travelling down Sullivan Place in Holywood recently cannot help but notice a new name on the street. Gastronomy Cafe-Bistro has been developed by husband and wife team, Simon and Elaine Adair, with the concept that good food should be available and affordable to everyone.

Initially, Gastronomy will be operating as a Bistro only serving lunches and evening meals but come April, it will also offer a full cafe service offering breakfasts as well as a tasty selection of home-baked produce available to sit-in or take-away.

The “Enigma” returns to Holywood!

There is a familiar face in the kitchen of Gastronomy Cafe-Bistro. It’s none other than David Lavin, the former Head Chef of Enigma which once occupied the same building in Sullivan Place. David was instrumental in helping Enigma win the Best Eatery category at the 2013 North Down Business Awards and within only a few days of opening, former customers of Enigma have already been booking in to Gastronomy in order to enjoy David’s gastronomical delights. With over 20 years experience in the catering industry, as well as being the former Head Chef of Enigma, David has also been Head Chef in Flame (Howard Street, Belfast) and Jeffers by the Marina (Bangor) and has also held senior chef positions in The Old Inn (Crawfordsburn) and Donegans (Bangor).

But its no accident that David is in the kitchen at Gastronomy. For he is the brother of one of the owners, Elaine Adair, making Gastronomy Cafe-Bistro a true family business.

To view all that Gastronomy Cafe-Bistro has to offer, visit their website:

www.gastro-holywood.com.

2 Sullivan Place, Holywood Tel: 028 9543 7639 Web: www.gastro-holywood.com

East Belfast : People in Profile

Ben Tsang, manager of the new Oliver’s Restaurant at Knock, tells us...

“WHY I LOVE...

East BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? I have been in the hospitality business from a very young age starting in my family’s restaurant. This experience at a young age gave me a great insight and passion for the industry, so much so that I decided to make it my career. My first job outside the family business was in Wine Inns at the Four Winds Bar & Restaurant whilst studying Business at the University of Ulster. I then got an opportunity to work at James Street South. I started as a front of house member of staff, quickly progressing to a supervisory role, and then worked my way up the ladder becoming assistant restaurant manager and then restaurant manager.

During this time I met and learnt a lot from some very key professionals, it helped me develop my own management style. I cannot thank James Street South enough for making me who I am today. I’m now ready to run Oliver’s Restaurant @ Knock. I have a fantastic opportunity to put my experience to use on this new exciting venture. Our team of chefs are very talented and some have travelled extensively, working in Australia and the far east, but they are very proud of Belfast and will be show-casing what Northern Ireland is all about.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Working in hospitality, you don’t really get much spare time. I try to

take most Sunday’s off so I can spend it with my fiancé, Jill, and our 5 year old son, Tyler. Whether it is a lazy day watching movies and eating junk food at home or a day trip like bowling or lunch out etc. I must admit, I am rather fond of playing my PS4 every night after work just to unwind.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST? Jill and I love this side of Belfast, it has surpassed south Belfast for the eateries and parks, everything you need is here. Stormont Estate is such a beautiful area for walking and when I need to clear my head I run up the hill a few times, ok maybe once. But mainly the people, I love the people in east Belfast they’re the salt of the earth, very friendly.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO SOCIALISE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? With having a 5 Year old, our nights out are a rare treat, we usually go to the Dundonald complex to see a movie, a bite to eat or take Tyler to Funky Monkey’s. When we have a baby sitter organised Horatio Todd’s is great for a catch up and their food is excellent.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? It’s probably not a hidden gem now but when we first discovered Oliver’s on the Belmont Road it had only opened and we were delighted to find a restaurant that cooked a tasty, healthy brunch, so it has been our Sunday tradition for over a year. We try to get early as it packs out quickly.

Their award winning scones are too good to miss.

Because their food standard is consistently high I had no hesitation in joining the company. They are in the finals of the prestigious Janus Hospitality Awards, quiet an achievement for only being open a year.

does ballyhackamore need another restaurant?

There are many unique restaurants in east Belfast, it is incredible how it has developed over the past few years. From the casual Il Pirata to the fine dining of Graze, Ballyhack has become a destination for food. We are very excited to be joining such an array of great eating establishments, and with our team we’re very confident of adding to the excellent reputation of the area. Not only will Oliver’s be creating job opportunities, our new venture will be using local suppliers and ingredients. Fingers crossed in your future articles, the next person may say Oliver’s Restaurant @ Knock is their favourite restaurant.

Great for a catch up: Ben loves the excellent food at Horatio Todd’s 56

East Belfast Life

Are Oliver’s burgers the best in Belfast?

57/59 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AA Tel: 028 9065 6384

‘BYO’ menu

Monday to Friday, 6pm to 9pm. Call 028 9065 6384 to book

East Belfast : REVIEW

Get Smart When dining out in east Belfast you are never short of high quality options. ‘The east’ has become a mecca of fine and casual dining, and with the variety of fantastic cafes and restaurants on offer, eating out is always a treat.

So it was with great excitement that I ventured to Belmont Road to try out Cafe Smart, one of the household names on my east Belfast to do list.

My partner and I arrived on a chilly Thursday evening, and as we strolled down Belmont Road, the bustling and exciting road on which Cafe Smart is located, we had hoped to be greeted with a warm welcome, and we were not disappointed. Not only were the staff friendly and helpful but quite literally the cafe was beautifully warm, a great refuge from the cold outside.

After we had dusted ourselves down, the kind waitress took our coats and promptly guided us to our table. We were given a fantastic window seat, which looked out on to Belmont Road, still so full of life on a cold evening.

The menus were delivered swiftly and the waitress then took our drinks (the fantastic Thursday evening menu is BYO, great news if you want to enjoy a few drinks with dinner).

As we relaxed in the warm surroundings enjoying our drinks my partner and I began to scan the menu, which contains an option of two courses at a very competitive £12.95 or three courses for £15.95.

There was so much to choose from on the starter menu; BBQ ribs, soup of the day and 58

East Belfast Life

east BELFAST LIFE’S philip mclaughlin visits cafe smart, belmont road

prawn skewers to name but a few. However we couldn’t resist the starter of breads with tapenade, dipping oils and pesto. This is usually my go to option on any starter menu, so I knew exactly what I was looking for - and was not disappointed. The bread was tasty, fresh and delicious with an excellent ratio of sides some restaurants can skimp on the key ingredients, this was certainly not a problem at Cafe Smart.

My partner thoroughly enjoyed her prawn skewer starter, and it was with great anticipation that we looked forward to our main course. I had ordered the Belfast ale pie with mashed carrot and parsnip and sweet potato fries.

The Belfast ale pie was beautiful; well presented, delicious, full of flavour and of a generous size, providing plenty of sustenance and perfectly supplemented by the mashed vegetables and sweet potatoes.

The chicken ciabatta burger looked incredible, my partner’s eyes lit up when it was placed in front of her. My partner devoured the entire plate and as filling as it was, she happily declared that she could eat it all over again but maybe tomorrow.

Our desserts of chocolate brownie ice cream were fantastic and topped off an excellent dining experience. Both were light and fresh and particularly tasty.

My partner and I entered Cafe Smart a little cold from the crisp evening, but we left feeling buoyant and warmed up, thanks to fantastic service matched by exquisite food.

We will most certainly be back.

56 Belmont Road, Belfast T: 028 9047 1679

Cafe Smart is an ideal location for a private event We have great experience and a courteous team of staff at hand. We have hosted Engagement and Birthday Parties, Fashion Shows, Charity Events,Christenings,Art exhibitions and many more. We can cater for small or large gatherings up to 60 people.

You can choose your own style, be it a Champagne and CanapĂŠÂ reception or a 3 course buffet with BYO available.

Your event can be a sit down dining experience or we can remove all the furniture and create a great sociable space for your party over a two floor mezzanine creating a buzzing atmosphere. We can source a live musician for use of our piano or entertainment & decoration.

Please call 028 9047 1679 or email info@cafesmart.co.uk for more details.

56 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AN www.cafesmart.co.uk

East Belfast : Social

Gone to Market Organised by The Ballyhackamore Business Association, The Artisan Market at St. Colmcille’s Church, continues to go from strength to strength. Ballyhackamore has become a centre of food and craft culture, not just in east Belfast but for the whole of the city, and the market has proved to be a wonderful success. The latest market was held on 20th February and will continue on the third Saturday of each month.

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Michael Henderson and Andy Hill.

Janet Dickson, Ciara McIlwaine, Rory McIlwaine, Sheena Dickson and Jean McCreanor.

Kay Armstrong and Maggie McDowell.

Lisa Skinner and Peter Waugh.

Margaret Harte and Sharon Millen.

Sam and Pam Butler with Maggie McDowell and Kay Armstrong.

Alan Wilson with Lauren, Alex, Louis and Pamela Millar.

Raymond Kenmore.

Glynis Evans and Millie Cole.

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East Belfast Life

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te ! vo w no m co r. le at rt te ls u

www.ulstertatler.com

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.

02 Interiors showroom of the Year

In this category you can vote for a large or small independently owned interiors store.

03 Hairdressing salon of the Year

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

04 beauty salon/spa of the Year

In this category you can vote for any salon/spa in the Northern Ireland within the health or beauty industry? Who has worked wonders on you?­­­­­

05 Car showroom of the year

All we need is the name of the Northern Ireland based car showroom that is head and shoulders above the rest in terms of presentation and customer service.

06 restaurant of the Year

Where have you had your best meal lately? Just let us know the name of your favourite restaurant.

07 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.

08 charity of the Year

Which charity is close to your heart? Just let us know the name of the charity that has made a difference in your life.

Fashion Boutique Interiors showroom Hairdressing Salon Beauty Salon/Spa car showroom Restaurant Hotel Charity sports person Celebrity independant travel agent ni website Business Woman Business Man

09 sports person of the Year

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 independant Travel Agent of the year

In this category we are looking for the name of the travel agent that you think goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide an excellent service.

12 NI website of the year

Which Northern Irish website stands out to you most in terms of traffic, design and functionality?

13 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.

14 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.

Lifetime Achievement Award

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

Voting Form How to vote It’s simple, just pick the category and the company/person you want to vote for, 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.

Categories

Who you’re voting for

1 Fashion Boutique of the Year

2 Interiors Showroom of the Year

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4 Beauty Salon/Spa of the Year

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For categories 13 and 14 in addition to their name, contact details and category, please forward a short statement (maximum 500 words) on a separate sheet on why the person should win.

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5 Car Showroom of the Year

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10 Celebrity of the Year

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12 NI Website of the Year

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East Belfast : Social

Poems & Songs by Lamplight Poet Frank Ormsby and songwriter Anthony Toner read and performed together as part of the recent C.S. Lewis Festival. This unique pairing of words and music by lamplight was held in the Drama Hall at Campbell College. The pair first performed together last year as Frank joined Anthony on stage at No Alibis in Belfast for the launch of Anthony’s Miles & Weather album. Anthony returned the favour two weeks later, performing at the launch of Goat’s Milk. The festival appearance saw them sharing the stage and taking turns in the spotlight, offering poems and songs in a special one-off event in a unique setting.

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East Belfast Life

Lesley and Ian Dickson and Aine McGurk.

Evelyn and Michael McAleer, Beverley Brown and Sara Ball.

Robyn and Laura McMurray.

Norma and Sandy Smith.

Frank Ormsby and Anthony Toner.

Ashfield Girls School pupils and staff.

Andrea Montgomery and Sian Toner.

Lynn Gray and Lynda Wilson.

26 NEW HOMES COMING SOON

A RANGE OF DE TAC H E D & SEMI-DETACHED HOMES Coopers Mill is finished with a turnkey specification and is ideally situated on the Upper Newtownards Rd, Dundonald.

028 9059 5555 www.themcginnisgroup.com

www.simonbrien.com

028 9181 4144 www.reedsrains.co.uk

IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT COOPERS MILL THIS SPRING...

McGinnis Group,

the renowned homebuilder behind the award-winning scheme is releasing a brand new phase of homes to suit all types of home-buyer in Northern Ireland.

The new phase includes stylish and spacious three & four bedroom detached and semi detached homes, all finished to the high specification now synonymous with Coopers Mill.

Prices offer fantastic value for money with three bedroom semi-detached homes starting at £140,000, and detached homes starting at just £167,500.

All the new homes being released come with a comprehensive turnkey package with the best quality products and stylish finishes. Homes include quality fitted kitchens incorporating integrated appliances, classic white sanitary ware plus a contemporary fireplace.

Internal decoration, floor coverings and co-ordinated wall and floor tiling are also part of the package. All houses have dedicated car parking.

Nestled between the rolling hills of Castlereagh and Craigantlet, Coopers Mill is just a short commute from Belfast City Centre, and with excellent transport links to Newtonwnards, Bangor and Holywood, Dundonald is a growing town that retains a village feel. Transport links include a Translink service from Coopers Mill to Belfast City Centre.

Nearby, Dundonald Leisure Park is home to an Olympic ice rink, a thirty lane ten pin bowling alley, mini golf

as well as an Omniplex cinema, gym and multiple restaurants. Additionally, Comber Greenway, a sevenmile traffic free section of the National Cycle Network is on Coopers Mill’s doorstep.

The path provides a tranquil green corridor all the way

from Comber to the heart of East Belfast with views along the route of Stormont and Scrabo Tower. The walking and cycling route provides a traffic free environment for leisure walking and cycling and offers commuting cyclists a direct and traffic-free route

from Comber to Belfast City Centre.

The village style Coopers Mill development has become one of the most desirable areas to live in the area.

The new residents in the development combined with the quality of architecture and landscaping has resulted in a vibrant community at Coopers Mill. The quality of materials used stands out and, as a result, this scheme will really stand the test of time.

Situated on the East of the City, Coopers Mill is located just off the Belfast - Newtownards dual carriageway. The development is only 15-20 minutes from Belfast City Centre, 5 minutes from Newtownards, 10 minutes from Comber and 2 minutes from the village of Dundonald.

For more information please contact our Selling Agents: Reeds Rains 028 9181 4144 Simon Brien Residential 028 9059 5555

Selling Agents:

028 9059 5555

www.simonbrien.com

028 9181 4144

www.reedsrains.co.uk

IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT COOPERS MILL THIS SPRING...

McGinnis Group,

the renowned homebuilder behind the award-winning scheme is releasing a brand new phase of homes to suit all types of home-buyer in Northern Ireland.

The new phase includes stylish and spacious three & four bedroom detached and semi detached homes, all finished to the high specification now synonymous with Coopers Mill.

Prices offer fantastic value for money with three bedroom semi-detached homes starting at £140,000, and detached homes starting at just £167,500.

All the new homes being released come with a comprehensive turnkey package with the best quality products and stylish finishes. Homes include quality fitted kitchens incorporating integrated appliances, classic white sanitary ware plus a contemporary fireplace.

Internal decoration, floor coverings and co-ordinated wall and floor tiling are also part of the package. All houses have dedicated car parking.

Nestled between the rolling hills of Castlereagh and Craigantlet, Coopers Mill is just a short commute from Belfast City Centre, and with excellent transport links to Newtonwnards, Bangor and Holywood, Dundonald is a growing town that retains a village feel. Transport links include a Translink service from Coopers Mill to Belfast City Centre.

Nearby, Dundonald Leisure Park is home to an Olympic ice rink, a thirty lane ten pin bowling alley, mini golf

as well as an Omniplex cinema, gym and multiple restaurants. Additionally, Comber Greenway, a sevenmile traffic free section of the National Cycle Network is on Coopers Mill’s doorstep.

The path provides a tranquil green corridor all the way

from Comber to the heart of East Belfast with views along the route of Stormont and Scrabo Tower. The walking and cycling route provides a traffic free environment for leisure walking and cycling and offers commuting cyclists a direct and traffic-free route

from Comber to Belfast City Centre.

The village style Coopers Mill development has become one of the most desirable areas to live in the area.

The new residents in the development combined with the quality of architecture and landscaping has resulted in a vibrant community at Coopers Mill. The quality of materials used stands out and, as a result, this scheme will really stand the test of time.

Situated on the East of the City, Coopers Mill is located just off the Belfast - Newtownards dual carriageway. The development is only 15-20 minutes from Belfast City Centre, 5 minutes from Newtownards, 10 minutes from Comber and 2 minutes from the village of Dundonald.

For more information please contact our Selling Agents: Reeds Rains 028 9181 4144 Simon Brien Residential 028 9059 5555

Selling Agents:

028 9059 5555

www.simonbrien.com

028 9181 4144

www.reedsrains.co.uk

East Belfast : IN FOCUS

Why Should I Make a Will?

Most of us would like to have some level of control over what happens to our hard-earned money and property when we die – but very few of us (indeed a mere 32.5% of adults in Northern Ireland) have actually taken steps to ensure this happens by making a Will. Our excuses are numerous: “I don’t have time.”

“Lawyers are so expensive.”

“I’ll sort that another time.”

“I’m too young.”

“I don’t have that much money.”

“I’m pretty sure everything automatically goes to my family anyway…I think…”

But what happens if you die “intestate”? That is, without having ever made a Will setting out your wishes as to what happens to your money and property after your death. In a nutshell: THE LAW (not you!) decides what to do with all of your property. A recent case at Mackenzie & Dorman showed just how unyielding the law can be where a client died with no Will leaving a substantial estate. It took two years to trace the beneficiaries entitled under the intestacy laws and in the end the estate was whittled down to over 60 fractions as tiny as 1/608 and dispersed far and wide to distant relatives whom the client had never met – a situation which could easily have been avoided by making a simple Will.

Don’t put it off! Contact Mackenzie & Dorman today on 028 9067 3211 and leave it in the hands of the experts to make sure your money and property pass in accordance with your wishes!

Mackenzie & Dorman Solicitors, 94-96 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 1NN www.macdor.co.uk

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68 East Belfast Life

Reverse

Roundabout Tyre & Battery Ltd

1 Ballygowan Road, Castlereagh, Belfast BT5 7LH Tel: 028 9079 6552 Email: sales@roundabout-tyres.co.uk Web: www.roundabout-tyres.co.uk

Servicing and MOT • • • •

MOT preparation Filter changes Computerised Brake Testing Full and partial servicing

Tyres You can confidently rely on Roundabout Tyre & Battery Ltd. No matter the make or model of your vehicle, our team have the experience to get your car’s tyres replaced professionally. With free tyre safety checks, you can count on us. At Roundabout Tyre & Battery Ltd, our tyre fitting is done using the best equipment available, so you can put complete faith in us to help.

• • • •

Puncture repairs Wheel alignment Wheel Balancing Professional fitting

We stock Hankook, Michelin and Bridgestone tyres.

garage services With Roundabout Tyre & Battery Ltd, help is at hand. With 25 years’ experience, our team have the ability to ensure your car is working. We can undertake repairs while you wait in our reception, emphasising the faith you can put in us.

Quality repairs • Brakes • Batteries • Exhausts • Diagnostic checks Roundabout Tyre & Battery Ltd are approved Members of the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA)

East Belfast : MOTORING

FUN FACTOR Derek Black test drives the new seat ibiza st.

We used to call them ‘estate’ cars but now they are more glamorous and are known as ST, or Sports Touring cars. There is nothing quite like this format for carrying the tools of your trade or packing up the family chattels for a holiday.

SEAT, the Spanish wing of the VW group, has given this treatment to its compact Ibiza hatchback. Like its sister car, the Polo, the Ibiza has grown in size over the years. Add the extra space off the ST and they have produced a seriously useful load carrier.

Now the Ibiza is a car that I have always rated highly. Not only is it more affordable than its sibling, it is more fun to drive and comes with a lot of equipment. You can now buy the Ibiza with a choice of petrol and diesel engines from the VW stable. There are three body styles - the three-door SC, the five-door hatch and this ST estate.

This offers 65mpg on the Combined Cycle with emissions of 112g/ km and is in the 16% company car tax bracket. With acceleration to 62mph in a tad over 10 seconds this is quite a brisk performer. I certainly found it a very pleasant and lively car to drive.

The ST is smart and modern looking and comes with a manual gearbox or the excellent DSG automatic system that works very slickly and does not waste fuel. All models come with stability control, four air bags, electric front windows, alarm, remote central locking, four speaker sound with remote controls, tyre pressure monitoring and hill hold. Equipment levels grow as you move up the range to include a portable touch screen unit including satellite navigation and Bluetooth with voice command.

Its breadth of appeal stretches from a frugal Ecomotive 1.2 diesel version that returns up to 80mpg on the combined cycle to a 180PS hot hatch Cupra that can sprint to 62mph in under seven seconds thanks to a 1.4-litre petrol engine that has both a turbocharger and a supercharger!

You can also specify a winter pack including heated seats, headlight washers and heated windscreen washer jets or a technology pack with automatic lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, electric folding mirrors and cruise control.

I have been driving the FR version which is more eye-catching than the others - it even has strings of LED lights to remind us that its cousin is Audi! My car had the familiar1.6 TDI engine - a useful and

List prices for the Ibiza ST start from £12,960 for a 1.0-litre petrol with the diesels starting from £15,165 and the 1.6 TDi from £16,245.

Agnew Autoexchange 49-59 Ladas Drive, Belfast BT6 9FR Tel: 028-9070-3131 www. agnewautoexchange.co.uk 70

quiet performer with 105PS on tap that is sure to be with Northern Ireland’s high mileage drivers.

East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : Community Watch

‘CHA CHA CHA-ING’ FOR A CAUSE

Laura Donaghey receives her award for Pharmacist of the Year.

Pharmacy Triumphs Two East Belfast pharmacies are celebrating after being recognised at Northern Ireland’s leading awards ceremony - the highly-esteemed annual Pharmacy in Focus awards. Groves Pharmacy on Belmont Road was presented with the Customer Service Award (1-3 pharmacies). With east Belfast on a high following Groves Pharmacy’s success, there soon followed a further accolade when Laura Donaghey from Boots the Chemist on the Woodstock Road was presented with the Pharmacist of the Year Award.

Taking part in the ‘Cha Cha Challenge’ are Stephen Patton, Human Resources Manager at Belfast City Airport and Victoria Barkley, Dance Instructor at First Dance NI.

Catharine Murray receives the award for Groves Pharmacy.

Staff members at George Best Belfast City Airport put their dancing shoes on in aid of mental health charity CAUSE by taking part in the ‘Cha Cha Challenge’ which aims to step out the stigma surrounding mental health illness. With the guidance of dance instructors and volunteers from First Dance NI and CAUSE, the staff at the airport were joined by primary six pupils from Euston Street Primary School as they completed the two-minute cha cha cha dance.

Stephen Patton, Human Resources Manager at Belfast City Airport, said: “My colleagues and I are delighted to have the opportunity to engage with CAUSE in its most recent campaign which aims to dispel the myths and stigmas attached to mental health illness. We hope that our participation in the ‘Cha Cha Challenge’ has brought the community closer to stepping out the stigma of mental health illness.” Anne Holland, Fundraising Manager at CAUSE, said: “It’s quite likely that one day you, one of your friends, colleagues or family members will experience a mental health problem, yet mental illness is still surrounded by prejudice, ignorance and fear. We would like to say a huge thank you to Belfast City Airport for taking up the challenge and showing everyone you can cha cha cha for CAUSE – anywhere, anytime.”

It’s not too late to support the campaign: visit www.cause.org.uk to download your own Cha Cha Challenge Pack which includes dance steps and a simple routine choreographed by First Dance NI.

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : Social

Breda Academy School Formal Year 14 pupils of Breda Academy recently celebrated their annual school formal. A fantastic evening of glitz and glamour was enjoyed by all in attendance.

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Mrs Glover, Shannon Ward, Mr Henry, Natalya Nixon, Ross Campbell and Abigail Millar.

Holly McDonald, Abigail Millar and Janice McCartney.

Mrs Towell, Mrs Maneely and Miss McCabrey.

Nicole Hagan, Natalie McConaghie, Ryan Wilkinson, Tegan Mulholland, Ross Campbell, Mrs Beattie, Courtney Spence and Kathryn Clarke.

Christopher Osbourne and Shannon Ward.

Nicole Hagan and Ryan Wilkinson.

Prom King – Matthew Elder and Prom Queen – Janice McCartney .

Scott Myles, Chloe Wallace, Toni-Jade Graham and Andrew Girvin.

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East Belfast : FASHION

StreetSmart...

East Belfast Life hits Ballyhackamore to check out what’s hot in the style stakes

Nathan McIlwrath & Jonathan Ross

Simon Graham Q. Where is your outfit from?

Q. Where is your favourite place to shop?

My trench coat is Burberry.

N: I love vintage, so it would be somewhere like Beyond Retro.

J: Dublin is great for shopping - it’s a bit expensive but has the best selection of shops.

Q. What’s your favourite brand?

I studied German, so my favourite place to shop would be in Berlin’s KaDeWe or Kaufhaus des Westens, which translates to ‘Department Store of the West’.

Q.

Describe your style in 3 words.

Classic, continental and smart-casual.

Q. Where is your outfit from?

N: Topshop, Topman and my trainers are New Balance. My shirt is actually from the woman’s section - I just buy the more oversized items!

J: Most of mine is from Topman.

Q. Describe your style.

N: Mostly oversized & vintage.

Q. What’s your transitional piece for the season?

J: Probably jumpers, because we don’t see sun like today that often!

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : Social

of the best Pubs In each issue we take a look at five of our favourite things in east Belfast - this time its

Ye Olde Elk Inn

Where is it?

793 Upper Newtownards Road, BT16 OYE Why we love it?

Located on the Upper Newtownards Road and in the heart of Dundonald Village, The Elk is a family-owned, traditional country pub offering great food, fantastic service and stacks of atmosphere.

Horatio Todd’s Where is it?

406 Upper Newtownards Road, Ballyhackamore, BT4 3EZ Why we love it?

Situated in Ballyhackamore, Horatio Todd’s quickly established itself as one of east Belfast’s finest drinking establishments.

The award winning, comfortable and welcoming local bar and restaurant provides quality drinks, food and entertainment.

Where can I find out more? www.horatiotodds.com

T he Four Winds Where is it?

111 Newtown Park, BT8 6LX. Why we love it?

An institution, The Four Winds has a little bit of everything.

Great food, great drink, but one of our favourite reasons to go is because of U105 DJ Carolyn Stewart, who provides outstading musical entertainment, every Saturday night.

Where can I find out more? www.thefourwinds.co.uk

Where can I find out more? www.theelkbar.com

T he Poet Bar and Grill Where is it?

Kings Square, BT5.

Why we love it?

Tucked away in Kings Square, just off the Kings Road, The Poet Bar and Grill is in the perfect location to enjoy a drink and some food after a busy day at Dundonald Omniplex. You can also enjoy some live entertainment at the weekends.

Where can I find out more? www.poetbarandgrill.com

T he Stokers Halt Where is it?

199 Upper Newtownards Road, Ballyhackamore, BT4 3JB Why we love it?

East Belfast’s newest pub is bursting with character. The Stokers Halt has totally transformed the old ‘Point Bar’ into a haven

for food and drink lovers. At The Stokers you can enjoy delicious food, a selection of hand crafted ales and lagers or an exciting range of freshly mixed cocktails.

Where can I find out more? www.stokershalt.com

East Belfast Life 75

East Belfast : People in Profile

East Belfast actor and director Sam McCready, who lives in the US but returns to Belfast at least once or twice a year, tell us….

“WHY I LOVE...

East BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? I was fascinated with acting from when I was a child. I started acting on BBC Radio when I was eleven and when I was a pupil at Strand Primary School. When I was at Grosvenor High School I acted all the comic roles in the Gilbert and Sullivan operas. In 1954 I joined the New Lyric Light Opera Company, again playing major roles in their productions in the Grand Opera House; I’m now the Patron of the company. I became involved with the Lyric Theatre in 1956 and for the next twenty years

Coming home: Sam has a long history with the Lyric Theatre, both as an actor and stage director.

I devoted myself to that company as an actor and stage director. I also felt a deep commitment to teaching and went to Stranmillis College in 1958 to study Art). While I was teaching at Fane Street and Orangefield Secondary Schools, I acted at the Lyric in the evenings and, almost weekly and I was also in a show on BBC Radio Ulster. I formed the Lyric Drama School in 1960 and later the Lyric Youth Theatre before leaving Belfast for Wales in 1969, when I was appointed Lecturer in Drama at the University College of North Wales. Among my students were Danny Boyle, John Sessions, and Frances Barber. In 1978 I returned to Belfast as Head of Drama at Stranmillis College and two years later I became Artistic Director of the Lyric Theatre. In 1982, I was invited to direct in New York and among my cast was Kevin Spacey. That same year, I was invited to become Professor of Drama at the University of Maryland and remained there until my retirement fifteen years ago.

On my retirement I formed a small production company, Two-for-One Productions, with my wife, Joan, and have been touring the world ever since with one-person plays which I write and perform, the most recent being the show about Percy French.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK? I am freelance and I work from home. First thing, I answer emails, most of them about our production schedule. Then I either research material or work on a new play, followed by rehearsals of our next production.

We rehearse in our home, very often on the patio of our house, when the weather permits, and that attracts much attention from our neighbours, who don’t really understand acting and sometimes think Sam and Joan are fighting. Despite having been married for 54 years we don’t fight!

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? I paint (I trained as a painter at the Belfast Art College and Stranmillis College). I try to paint each day and exhibit as often as I can. I also do a lot of reading, always looking for ideas for a new project. I’m something of a workaholic. But I don’t watch much TV; it bores me. I like live action.

What did you like/remember most about living / working in East Belfast?

I was born and raised in east Belfast, although the house where I was born in Tower Street was bombed during the war and my family lived for a few years in Hillsborough. Growing up in Connsbrook Avenue, I remember the freedom we had to play outside, often roaming around the fields at Garnerville, playing in Victoria Park or in the street.

I remember fondly all my friends from that time (indeed some of us, like Joan Chasty and Tom Stothers still meet when I’m back in Belfast).

Most of all I remember the Strand Church Choir and the remarkable woman, Irene Browne, who conducted it. For me, and so many in the Sydenham area, she gave us an experience through making music together that has remained with us for a lifetime. And interestingly,

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : People in Profile

Hidden Gem: Stormont, where Sam loves to walk and people watch.

she introduced me to Percy French when I sang ‘Eileen Oge’ at the concerts we performed in the big halls in Belfast.

who is really making a name for himself in Belfast, and Bill Neely, the brilliant TV news correspondent.

I loved teaching at Orangefield Boys’ School, sometimes taking my classes outside to a local graveyard or exploring the area where the Police Headquarters was later built. And I remember my pupils, not just the famous ones like David Ervine and Brian Keenan, but each and every person I taught is in my memory and I often think about them and it is a joy when I meet up with some of them again at my productions. Soon after I returned from Wales, I formed the Lyric Youth Theatre and am very proud of the talent I worked with then, among them Dan Gordon,

When you are home, where do you like to socialise in East Belfast?

Coffee heaven: Sam loves to visit SD Bell’s to catch up with friends when back home in east Belfast.

When I’m home I love to walk around east Belfast. I love walking along the familiar streets and roads; the Upper Newtownards Road, the Holywood Road, Connsbrook Avenue and all the streets running off it, remembering what an idyllic childhood I had. It is with a sense of nostalgia I walk those streets, remembering the good times. One of these days I’ll have to walk over the Sam Thompson Bridge and take a dander round Victoria Park, a wonderful asset to east Belfast.

What is your favourite hidden gem in East Belfast?

Why? Stormont. It’s my gem although not so hidden. When I am home I walk up to the Carson monument, partly to keep fit, or to learn my lines as I walk, but also to see the magnificent trees and the well-kept lawns.

And I love looking at the people, so many with their dogs. As an actor I learn from looking at people and at Stormont I get lots of time to observe them.

What is your favourite restaurant / cafe in East Belfast? Why? SD Bell’s Coffee House is a real favourite. I meet friends there and when I go into the place I always feel a sense of coming home. Horatio Todd’s is also a favourite for dinner. Again having been very familiar with Horatio Todd’s, the chemist at Strandtown, I always feel a sense of coming home, and the food’s good too. There are so many new restaurants on the Upper Newtownards Road and I will need some time to visit all of them. But I will! I will!

Sam McCready will be back on home-ground to perform his one man Percy French Show at the Lyric Theatre, 3-8th May.

East Belfast Life 77

East Belfast : Social

Answering Ireland’s Call The launch for ‘Ireland’s Call’ a new book by BBC journalist Stephen Walker was held recently at Kingspan Stadium . The book chronicles the lives of Irish sportsmen and the role they played in the First World War. It also features previously unpublished photographs, letters and archive documents of over 40 Irish sportsmen. BBC Presenter Mark Carruthers acted as host and Willie John McBride MBE was guest speaker.

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Iain and Dorrie Webster.

Alison Carruthers with Penny and Willie John McBride MBE. Cheree Totton and Fraser Mills.

Alan McFarland and Lord Empey.

Peter Jackson and Richard Kendrick.

Neil Robinson with Peter and Jenny Osborough.

Paul Clements, Jacqueline McIntyre and Keith Burnside.

Alex Graham and Gerry Carson.

Jim Neilly, Judith Gillespie and Ian Gillespie.

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MONDAYS Mountpottinger Methodist Church

WEDNESDAYS Bloomfield Presbyterian Church

188 Albertbridge Road, Mountpottinger (Belfast), County Down, BT5 4GU 9:30am and 11:30am Tel: Michelle 078 5713 1766

447 Beersbridge Road Junction of Cyprus Avenue, Bloomfield (Belfast), Co Antrim, BT5 5DW 9:30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tel: Deborah 077 0837 3567

Glenburn Methodist Church Hall 6 Glensharragh Gardens, Glenburn (Castlereagh), County Down, BT6 9PE 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Lindsay 078 9670 9234

Knockbreda Methodist Church 60-66 Rosetta Road, Rosetta (Belfast), Northern Ireland,BT6 0LU 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Kerrie 078 9566 8311

TUESDAYS Stormont Pavilion Stormont Estate, Dundonald, County Antrim, BT4 3TA 9:30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tel: Jo 075 4299 0597

Bloomfield Collegiate School Astoria Gardens, Ballyhackamore, County Antrim, BT5 6HW 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Sally 077 3871 3436

McQuiston Memorial Presbyterian Church Castlereagh Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT5 5FE 7:30pm Tel: Victoria 077 2089 0093

Strand Church 161 Connsbrook Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 1JT 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Michelle 07857 131766

Gilnahirk Baptist Church 2 Middle Braniel Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT5 7TU 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Ashleigh 07731 420680

THURSDAYS Belmont Presbyterian Church 92 Sydenham Avenue, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT4 2DT 9:30am Tel: Sally 077 3871 3436

Braniel Church Corner of Woodview Drive, Lower Braniel, Belfast, County Antrim, BT5 7PY 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Ashleigh 077 3142 0680

Harding Memorial Primary School 105-107 Cregagh Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT6 8PZ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Lindsay 078 9670 9234

The Royal British Legion Montgomery Road, Castlereagh (Belfast), County Antrim, BT6 9JD 9:30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tel: Esther 078 0409 5409

Ulster Temple Church 276 Ravenhill Road, Ravenhill, Belfast, BT6 8GL 5:30pm and 7:30pm Tel: Rosemary 07549 081079

SATURDAYS Garnerville Presbyterian Church 84 Glenmachan Road, Belfast, Co Down, BT4 2NN 9:30am Tel: Nicola 07493774713

Ulster Temple Church 276 Ravenhill Road, Ravenhill, Belfast, BT6 8GL 9:30am and 11:30am Tel: Rosemary 075 4908 1079

East Belfast : Social

WHAT’S HAPPENING -

IN THE EAST

We take a look at some of the major events and attractions coming soon to East Belfast.

What?

Gilnahirk Tennis Club Open Day. The club has been a significant feature of sporting life in east Belfast for the last fifty years.

Situated in the grounds of Bloomfield School, the club has three floodlit, artificial grass courts and excellent clubhouse facilities.

When?

Sunday 9th April. 2-4pm Where?

Bloomfield Collegiate (entrance via Knockhill Park).

For further information www.gilnahirktennis.org.uk

What?

Come along to Skainos where Wheelworks will help you animate your own story complete with music!

This is a great opportunity to work with digital art, animation and music as well as to learn new skills.

When?

Tuesday 5th April, any time between 5.30-7.30pm Where?

Skainos, 241 Newtownards Road.

For further information: www.eastsidearts.net/event/get-animated-wheelworks

What?

Wacky Wednesday. Summer blockbuster season is almost upon us, and with all showings of all films just ÂŁ3.50, there is no better place to catch the latest movies than Strand Arts Centre.

When?

All day, every Wednesday Where?

Strand Arts Centre.

For further information: www.strandartscentre.com 80

East Belfast Life

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WHY I LOVE...

paul foster, SAM Mccready, andrea montgomery, ben tsang & cllr. sonia copeland tell us why they love EAST belfast

moving on up hot property in east belfast

dining in the east ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO EATING OUT IN EAST BELFAST

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