East Belfast Life Autumn 2017

EAST

AUTUMN 2017 £2.00 WHERE SOLD

BelfastLife AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION

251 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT4 3JF Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9065 3111

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ALL THE LATEST EAST BELFAST SOCIAL EVENTS COVERED INSIDE INTERVIEW WITH DAN GORDON WHY I LOVE EAST BELFAST- RACHEL MCCLOSKEY AND ANNE CONDE ON THEIR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEMS SOCIAL ROUND UP - MAGICAL MEMORY GARDEN LAUNCHED DINING IN THE EAST - EATING OUT IN EAST BELFAST

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INTRODUCTION

Contents

AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION

BelfastLife EAST T

AUTUMN 2017 £2.00 WHERE SOLD

ALL THE LATEST EAST BELFAST SOCIAL EVENTS COVERED INSIDE INTERVIEW WITH DAN GORDON WHY I LOVE EAST BELFAST- RACHEL MCCLOSKEY AND ANNE CONDE ON THEIR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEMS SOCIAL ROUND UP - MAGICAL MEMORY GARDEN LAUNCHED DINING IN THE EAST - EATING OUT IN EAST BELFAST

Welcome...

SPOTLIGHT

251 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT4 3JF Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9065 3111

www.rodgersandfinney.co.uk

FEATURES

AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION

to the Autumn 2017 issue of East Belfast Life! In this issue we meet a host of different people who all have one thing in common, a love of east Belfast. Actor and playwright Dan Gordon reveals how his work has been inspired by east Belfast, Rachel McCloskey of Oliver’s Coffee Bar discusses what she loves most about living in the area and Anne Conde of Brae Cafe tells us her favourite hidden gem.

East Belfast is such a vibrant part of the city which constantly offers a plethora of things to do. From the CS Lewis Fesitval and sporting matches to art exhibitions and Halloween celebrations, we look at what is happening in the upcoming months.

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.

OUR COVER Rodgers & Finney

251 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JF 028 9065 3111 www.rodgersandfinney.co.uk

Why I Love East Belfast - Rachel McCloskey

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Interview - Dan Gordon

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Why I Love East Belfast - Kirsty Finney

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In Profile - Rodgers & Finney

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In Profile - Victoria Armstrong, Lamppost Café

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Why I Love East Belfast -Anne Conde

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History - East Belfast Through Time

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CS Lewis Festival

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Eating Out: East of the City

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Heart of the Arts

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History: Pitchside

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Making History at the Homeless World Cup

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Human Jigsaw Highlights Community

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in the Connswater Greenway

SOCIAL

The EastSide Arts Festival was a huge hit in 2017. In this issue we provide a round up of Festival as well as social coverage from a few of the dynamic events that were on offer to locals and visitors to the area alike.

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New Landscapes in East Belfast

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Motoring: SEAT Ibiza

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What’s Happening in the East

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News Round Up

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Magical Memory Garden Launch

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Fields of Life Charity Spring Ball

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Bottomless Brunch

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New Beginnings

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Inside the EastSide Arts Festival

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Visitors Centre Gallery Opening

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Belfast Community Gospel Choir

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Dawn Crothers Exhibition

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Ulster Rugby Star Hosts Charity Golf Day

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New Concern Worldwide Bookshop

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Royal North of Ireland Club Annual Regatta Ball

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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.

East Belfast Life 01

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Magical Memory Garden Launch Belfast City Council supported the development of a “Magical Memory Garden”, to support those living with dementia, at Palmerston Residential Care Home in east Belfast. The garden, which features a number of reminiscence areas, is the first garden of its kind evercreated in Northern Ireland and has been funded by the Council, The Alpha Programme, Groundwork NI and Belfast City Airport.

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01. Sarah Travers with Palmerston Care Home residents Annie Dawson and Maud Irvine.

02. Care Home resident Maud Irvine and daughter Sarah McNicholl.

03. Garden launch host Sarah Travers with residents Annie Dawson and Maud Irvine.

04. Geraldine Gilpin and Sarah Travers officially open Palmerston Care Home’s new magic memory garden with ‘Missy’ the care home dog.

05. Alderman Jim Rodgers, Belfast High Sheriff Alderman Tom Haire and Cllr Peter Johnston.

06. David Lennox and Maureen O’Hagan.

07. Belfast High Sheriff Alderman Tom Haire, Paula Bradley MLA and Cllr George Dorrian.

08. Jean Cardy, Marsha Tuffin (Head of Dementia Services) , ‘Missy’ the dog and Linda Armitage.

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

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09. Guests in the new garden.

10. Head of Dementia Services Marsha Tuffin with Chris Lyttle MLA and Sarah Travers.

11. Music Therapy volunteer Anne Aitken, Andrew Durham, Dame Mary Uprichard and Norman Uprichard.

12. Kaz Lynas and Janet McKay. 13. From Sydenham Court Supported Housing are resident Marie Tanco with volunteers Karen Mullan, Marie Black and Sandra Sloan.

14. Florence and Denis Spence.

15. Fiona McAnespie and Lorna Conn.

16. Cllr Nicholas Trimble, Adam Munn, Geraldine Gilpin, Sarah Travers, Marsha Tuffin and Robbie Butler MLA.

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

BLOOMFIELD COLLEGIATE TEACHER Q&A

IN PROFILE: JOANNE AND JONATHAN WATERWORTH East Belfast Life’s Chantelle Harvey talks to Joanne and Jonathan Waterworth of Bloomfield Collegiate School.

privilege of teaching a fantastic group of girls.

Bloomfield is a lovely environment to work in and we also have the most amazing and supportive colleagues.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR? Teaching in a school like Bloomfield is a highlight in itself. It’s always lovely to see the girls come into school in Year 8 and then see them leave again at the end of Year 14, having matured into independent young women.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? Jonathan: I’m still a member of my hometown football club Kilmore Rec and I try to attend as many matches as possible.

Joanne: With two small children at home it’s not very often I have free time! When I do, I enjoy catching up with friends and indulging in some retail therapy.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? Jonathan: After reading History and Politics at QUB I then went on to complete a PGCE at Ulster University, Coleraine. I began working in Bloomfield Collegiate in September 2001 as a part time History teacher and have since gone on to become Head of Department and Senior Teacher in the school.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? We love taking our two boys, Noah and Jonah, to the local parks. Both Belmont and Victoria Parks are big favourites with us. The Belmont Road has some great little shops, like Fiddlesticks and Just For You, where you can always find something unique. No. 36 is a real hidden gem, they serve the most delicious food and is a must if we are heading out for lunch.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT LIVING/ WORKING IN EAST BELFAST? Joanne: I have lived in east Belfast all my life and I absolutely love it. Everything is within walking distance and Ballyhackamore now has a real cosmopolitan feel about it with all the lovely restaurants and bars. We have beautiful parks on our doorstep and The Strand Arts Centre is running some great programmes for young children. We have some of the best schools around and my eldest son is following in my footsteps having just started P.1 at Belmont Primary School.

“Everything is within walking distance and Ballyhackamore now has a real cosmopolitan feel about it with all the lovely restaurants and bars.”

Joanne: After completing both my BA in English Literature and PGCE at QUB, I spent my first two years teaching at Hunterhouse College. I started working in Bloomfield Collegiate in September 2005 and I have since gone on to become SENCo and Head of Year.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT BLOOMFIELD COLLEGIATE? I think we both agree that our favourite thing about BCS is the pupils. We have the 04

East Belfast Life

Joanne and Jonathan like to take their boys to the park.

WHAT THE 19 NOV 2017 – 6 JAN 2018

REINDEER SAW

By Conor Grimes & Alan McKee Directed by Tony Devlin

Cast: Jo Donnelly, Conor Grimes, Gerard McCabe, Alan McKee & Rosie McClelland

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Fields of Life Charity Spring Ball Fields of Life recently held their Spring Ball at The Culloden Estate and Spa. The event took place in memory of Lindsay Emerson and raised funds for ‘Light of All Secondary School’. The school was built in Lindsay’s memory after she died in 2007, aged 23. During her short life she travelled all over the world working with charities, her last trip being to Uganda with her husband and a group of volunteers in 2006. The formal ball boasted a brilliant turn out with lots of style on show and was enjoyed by all. The celebration of Lindsay’s life and work was a success and with the funds raised on the night the charity can continue to transform more lives with the gift of education and clean water.

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01. Martin Nation, Sue and Jim Allen, Zoe Nation and Richard Allen.

02. Neil and Sharon McKee, Heidi and Stephen Heasley, with Gilly and Warwick McCullough 03. Alan and Caroline Douglas, Paul and Sarah Mason.

04. Nadia McMullan, Claire Gault, Gillian Martin and Lauren Wethers.

05. Karen Poots, Norma Cousins and Stephanie Wethers 06. Nik and Hazel Anderson.

07. James and Roisin Heslip.

08. Sarah and David Pedlow, Heather and Jamie Addis, Freda and Alwyn Graham, with Michelle and Jonny Hanlon.

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30 NOV 2017 017 – 6 JAN 2018 018

By Derek O’Connor Composer & Musical Director Katie Richardson Director Paul Boyd

East Belfast : PEOPLE IN PROFILE

Rachel McCloskey, Owner of Oliver’s Coffee Bar and Deli, tells us...

“WHY I LOVE...

EAST BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? I have worked in a few restaurants in Belfast before working in Olivers Coffee Bar, where I gained my passion for coffee. I worked in Olivers while studying Sociology at QUB. I graduated in June’17 and now run Olivers Coffee Bar and Deli.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL WORKING DAY? I have recently taken a more active role in the deli, while Maxine concentrated on the coffee bar. I open for 7.30am, giving customers the chance to grab a coffee and maybe a freshly baked scone on their way to work. It’s a busy shop, I don’t stop from the minute I open. Heather, our head baker, bakes all our fresh scones and breads, etc. I display the breads then start making fresh salads and sandwiches in between serving customers. We have started a few highly skilled chefs, and show off their talent with bistro nights; they sell out once advertised. Our customers have become our friends, calling in every day for a quick chat.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? I recently started yoga, a great way to chill out. I train in the gym and enjoy eating out and socialising at weekends. When off work I love travelling; my favourite city is London, that’s where I get ideas for the business.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST? I grew up in east Belfast and it has been getting better every year. The choice of restaurants is incredible, it has become a destination. I also love the parks in east Belfast; I recently bought a small dog, a Maltese, he’s called Oscar. East Belfast has some great parks for walking.

HOW DOES LIVING IN EAST BELFAST COMPARE TO OTHER PLACES YOUR HAVE LIVED? I have always lived in East Belfast but can compare it to other places that I have visited. I love London and Dublin for their choice of eateries and independent shops, thankfully East Belfast is moving in that direction.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? I have to mention two! Rich Rags is ladies fashion shop at Bloomfield Roundabout, Cherith the owner has a great eye for fashion, and it’s very reasonably priced. The second is Nico’s, an authentic Italian pizzeria. It’s opening on the Belmont Road. When I was studying I loved getting their pizzas from Sunnyside St. I’m looking forward to them opening and we’ll now be neighbours as they’re next door to the deli.

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East Belfast Life

Rachel is looking forward to Nico’s opening on the Belmont Road.

East Belfast : PEOPLE IN PROFILE

Rachel works in Olivers Coffee Bar.

East Belfast Life 09

East Belfast : FEATURE

An Interview With

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : FEATURE

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INTO WRITING AND ACTING? My teachers at Sydenham Infant’s and Strand Primary in Connsbrook Ave and Sullivan in Holywood, my lecturers at Stranmillis College and my overwhelming desire to be the centre of attention.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING PLAYWRIGHTS AND ACTORS IN NORTHERN IRELAND? Write about what you know, what you care about, what you want to celebrate, what makes you angry and what you want to change.

WHY DO YOU THINK PERFORMANCE AND ART ARE IMPORTANT TO LIFE IN NORTHERN IRELAND? Vital. We can ask hard questions, examine difficult issues, walk in one and other’s shoes and nobody needs to get hurt.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW COMEDY FRANK CARSON: A REBEL WITHOUT A PAUSE? It’s a one man show based on the life of the great Comic. Everything from growing up in poverty in the docks of Belfast where even the arms on the chairs had tattoos – life in the army when he couldn’t be seen at camouflage training – his rise to stardom when he tried to buy a wasp in a pet shop that didn’t sell wasps but had two in the window - to receiving a Knighthood from Pope John Paul II and teaching him to say “that’s a cracker”.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE FUTURE? I’ve just begun performing ‘Frank’ so I hope

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he has a way to go. I started him off in the Strand Cinema where I went to the Saturday morning ‘Minors’ as a child. I’ve just been in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for all of August and there’s a lot of interest. I’d like to take Frank to Blackpool and maybe to the West End – let’s see. Also I’m directing Aladdin the first ever Panto in the SSE Odyssey Arena this Christmas.

WHAT ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Apart from my family? Well my work has always been vitally important to me. I wrote and performed in a two man play about my Father’s Harland and Wolff shipyard apprenticeship. We finished up off-Broadway in New York with it. Among the many other ‘favourites’ was performing in the one man show ‘A Night in November’ by Marie Jones about sectarianism in local soccer. TV - ‘More than A Flag’ where I worked with young East Belfast bandsmen in the Albertbridge Road Orange Hall after the flag protest debacle.

Documentaries like ‘Farewell to Mersy Street’ (redevelopment) ‘In The Shadow of The Shipyard’ (shipyard writers) and ‘Wee Buns’ (local bakeries) all exploring East Belfast history and culture. There’s a definite pattern here.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPINIONS ON THE CURRENT ARTS SCENE IN NORTHERN IRELAND AND HOW HAS EAST BELFAST CONTRIBUTED TO THE SCENE? Well look at my work – so much influenced by being born and bred in East Belfast. Great writers, painters, poets and musicians. When I was a child the playwright Stewart Parker lived around the corner and painter Jack

Pakenham a few doors up, visitors were photographing CS Lewis’ birthplace just down the road and Van Morrison was conquering the planet.

HOW HAS EAST BELFAST INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING OVER THE YEARS? Look at the genius and skill of the Industries, the tradition of the people, the work ethic, the families raised in the toughest of circumstances and the determination to succeed.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO GO IN EAST BELFAST? That’s like picking your favourite child.

Jordan’s Bakery, the Holywood Arches, Dave Kane Cycles, CS Lewis Square, any one of a dozen chippies, Strand Cinema, the Belmont Road, Ballyhackamore, the Cregagh Road ‘shaps’, the Connswater and Comber Greenways… this is turning into a Van Morrison song.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE EAST BELFAST IN THREE WORDS? It’s my home.

Frank Carson - A Rebel Without A Pause, written and performed by Dan Gordon is at the Lyric Theatre, Belfast, from 1-5 November 2017.

Tickets cost £20 from lyrictheatre.co.uk/event/frankcarson-a-rebel-without-a-pause/

Dan Gordon is well known for his portrayal of Red Hand Luke in the BBC Northern Ireland sitcom Give My Head Peace. He has starred in numerous stage productions in theatres in London, Dublin and Belfast and has won awards for his performances. His current project is Frank Carson – A Rebel Without a Pause, which he has written, and will perform in the Lyric Theatre during November.

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

Bottomless Brunch Well known East Belfast haunt Horatio Todd’s bar and restaurant has teamed up with former Miss Northern Ireland and author of the ‘Fit Body Bible’ Tiffany Brien to celebrate the launch of their new ‘Bottomless Brunch’ Saturday menu. A special brunch preview was held in the restaurant and attended by glamourous gals including Jacquie Martin. At this tantalising weekend event, the menu was placed in the spotlight and, it shone! Think avocados, smoked salmon, eggs every way, huevos rancheros and head chef Stuart Archibald’s special breakfast taco! All of this can be washed down with various chilled tipples including prosecco, bloody marys and mimosas galore! Did we mention it’s bottomless?

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Simon Lyttle and Rachel Stevenson.

Hilary Leckie and Jacquie Martin.

Katie Scott and Katie Edge.

Jo Given and Judith Scott.

Rachael and Caroline Martin.

Joanne Sweeney and Claire Cromie.

Claire Craig and Emma Deighan.

Bottomless Brunch.

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East Belfast : HISTORY

East Belfast -

THROUGH TIME

Aidan Campbell has published several illustrated and spoken local history books on East Belfast in the past 12 years. With this glance into how the area has changed over the past 100 years we look at Cregagh Village, Albert Bridge and Gelston’s Corner.

Modern Day Albert Bridge.

ALBERT BRIDGE The Lagan Bridge (or Halfpenny Bridge, so called because of the toll charge) collapsed in 1886 and a new bridge called the Albert Bridge was opened in 1890. The large building to the right of the bridge is Albertbridge Congregational Church located on Short Strand. It was built in 1866 facing the River Lagan and a sandy shore. The church was something of a landmark, on entering East Belfast from the Albert Bridge, as in recent years it had an illuminated sign which bore a scriptural message ‘Jesus Saith Ye Must Be Born Again’. This church building was demolished in 1985 and a new church built at neighbouring Woodstock Link.

The Collapse of the Lagan Bridge.

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East Belfast : HISTORY Gelston’s Corner in the early 1900s.

Gelston’s Corner now.

GELSTON’S G ELST EL STON ON’S CORNER The townland of Strandtown straddles the Belmont and Holywood Roads and originally reached the sandy beach, or strand, at Belfast Lough. There were no traders recorded in the area in 1859 but by 1861 James Gelston is listed in this vicinity as a ‘grocer and spirit dealer’. In this fairly quiet scene at Gelston’s corner in the early 1900s the three gentlemen sitting on the kerbside seem relatively untroubled by passing traffic. In the background is the original Strandtown National School which relocated to spacious new premises on North Road in 1931. The school building has an ecclesiastical look to it and it was constructed in 1863 as a ‘Chapel of Ease’ for the local Church of Ireland congregation before St. Mark’s Dundela was consecrated in 1878. The Stormont Inn on the corner has recently been demolished.

The electric tram parked at the top of Cregagh Road.

Cregagh Village now.

CREGAGH VILLAGE An electric tram is parked at the terminus at the top of Cregagh Road in 1910 where it meets the Hillfoot Road (now the A55 Upper Knockbreda dual carriageway). Horse drawn trams reached this suburb of Belfast in the 1890s when the area was known as ‘Cregagh Village’ (Cregagh Townland, Irish ‘The Rocky Place’) and it consisted of grand middle-class housing which included Downshire Road, Everton Drive and Cregagh Park. Electric trams were open-topped initially and then fitted with top covers for protection in wet weather. But it was decided that the trams should have open cabs because it was believed this was healthier for the drivers although it is difficult to imagine that the weather was much better back then than it is today

Aidan Campbell has previously published 12 East Belfast local history books entitled: Beaconsfield, Knock, Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk, Castlereagh, Cregagh, Stormont, Sydenham, Belmont, East Belfast Revisited Volumes 1 & 2 and Ballymacarrett. Newtownbreda in South Belfast was published in 2015 and Belfast Through Time in 2016.

Castlereagh Updated will be publsihed in October 2017. Aidan regularly gives illustrated talks to local groups and societies. The books retail at £10.00 each and most are available at Hillmount Garden Centre, Marie Curie Hospice and Hamilton News Cregagh with profits donated to local charity.

Book sales online at:

www.eastbelfasthistory.com

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

To New Beginnings A night of celebration was held at the Errigle Inn for three long serving members of Lagan College. Caroline Orr, Oonagh Donnelly, and Paul Burch have a combined service of 92 years in the school. They celebrated the new beginning of their lives through music with family and friends. They all wanted to say a big thank you for all the kind words expressed and the thoughtful gifts they have received over the last month, and to thank Leigh Hession and the Errigle for their hospitality.

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02. Ciara Eddy, Amy McFarland, Heather Lowry, Jacqui Rogan and Marie Evans.

03. Helen Killick, Oonagh Donnelly, Iggy Ward, Seamus O’Labhradha, Philip Ferguson, Maria Hoy and Jan Knox.

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

05. Caroline Orr with former Spanish teachers Gerry Lenaghan and Aine McParland.

06. Jacqui Rogan, Una Walters and Principal Amanda McNamee.

07. Andrew and Patricia Woods.

08. Musicians.

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: E H T E D I S N I

EAST SIDE

ARTS

FESTIVAL 2017

East Belfast Life takes a look at the highlights of the EastSide Arts Festival 2017.

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The EastSide Arts Festival had another successful year in the east of the city by highlighting the creative brilliance that resides there. Comedy, music, poetry, history, heritage and theatre all presented through talks, tours, and entertainment,

meaning the annual Festival inspired the young and old in every community. Each year the Festival grows in popularity and ambition, representing the artistic talent in east Belfast.

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Arts Festival Launch at The Bank The launch of EastSide Arts Festival was held at The Bank to showcase the fantastic 11 day festival which celebrated music and words, theatre, film, tours, visual arts, workshops and community events. The festivities were all rounded off with the EastSide Family Circus and Big Top weekend. The festival took place at a diverse range of locations across east Belfast, including, C.S Lewis Square and Eastside Visitors Centre to name a few.The Belfast City Council funded event is central to the Lord Mayor’s goal of making Belfast a vibrant and attractive city which thanks to the festival is closer to being achieved.

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01. ‘Phil the Pharmacist’ with Rachel Kennedy, Lord Mayor Cllr Nuala McAllister, Roisin McDonough and Chris Lyttle MLA. 02. Glenn Jordan, Sean Brannigan and Philip Orr. 03. Carmel Scott (MXB) and Laura Francis (Connswater Community Greenway).

04. Arlene Megaw, Trevor Robinson and Susie Burns.

05. Eastside Arts manager Rachel Kennedy with Belfast Lord Mayor Nuala McAllister.

06. Jake Bishop and Dr Patrick Harriott.

07. Roisin McDonough (Arts Council NI) with Ann McVeigh (ArtisAnn Gallery).

08. ‘Phil the Pharmacist’, Tina Segner, Belfast Lord Mayor Nuala McAllister, Ken Fanning, Roisin McDonough and Rachel Kennedy.

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

EastSide Arts Big Top Weekend As the EastSide Arts Festival came to a close, the Big Top weekend kicked off. Saturday and Sunday featured a family circus day and live performances at night from Gareth Dunlop and Ciaran Laverty and a cabaret night on the Friday. The weekend had something for everyone to enjoy with a wide range of entertainment on offer.

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01. John Melrose , Rachael Harriott, Stuart McFarland , Michelle McFarland and Maurice Kinkead.

02. Lee, Ben and Dee Cutler.

03. Jan Carson, Dominic Montague and Finn Kennedy.

04. Judith Cross, Jacqueline O’Hagan and Orla McAdam 05. Ursula Burns and Ken Fanning.

06. William Haag and Lisa McKee. 07. Sammy Douglas and George Dorrian.

08. Rachael Kennedy, David Alderdice and Maurice Kinkead.

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electric

NI

š Floor Standing Suites š Wall Mounted Suites š Inset Fires š Cast Fires & Stoves š Wall Mounted Fires

Unit 27 North City Business Centre, 2 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast BT15 2GG

E: electricfiresni@gmail.com W: www.electricfiresni.co.uk T: 028 9074 9735 M: 077 2063 4635

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Visitors Centre Gallery Opening A solo exhibition of artworks was held by renowned Belfast artist, Brian Ballard as part of the official opening of ‘Eastside Gallery’.

The Belfast born artist’s work was exhibited in Eastside Visitors Centre’s newly launched art space and curated by the ArtisAnn Gallery. Brian Ballard trained firstly at the College of Art, Belfast and then at the College of Art, Liverpool. He still resides in Belfast but spends most of his time living and gaining inspiration on the remote and rugged island of Inishfree, off the coast of Donegal.

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01. Andrew Hassard, Ann McVeigh, Colin Maxwell.

02. Kevin, Maisie and Julie Miller.

03. Janet Uhlemann, Declan French and Kate Fletcher.

04. Lauren Dawson and Matthew Malcolm.

05. Maurice Kinkead.

06. Eric Woods and Eileen Griffiths.

07. David Alderdice and Rachel Kennedy.

08. Artist, Brian Ballard and Sammy Douglas.

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

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09. William Cooper and Mary Gilfillan.

10. Maurice Kinkead, Marcin Piotrowicz and Andrew Hassard.

11. Kate Fletcher and Artist, Brian Ballard.

12. Claudia and Freya Ballard with Zoe Murdoch and Esme Ballard.

13. Liz Kennedy and Jim McNicholas.

14. James and Sarah Thompson.

15. Chloe Ballard and Jan Uprichard.

16. Tessa Hobson, Monty, Oscar, Trina and Peter Wilson, with Sammy Douglas.

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East Belfast : FEATURE

5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE C.S. LEWIS FESTIVAL Hot off the heels after the successful EastSide Arts Fesitval, the east side of the city is gearing up in preparation for the 5th Anniversary of the C.S. Lewis Festival.

This year, the festival is planning to run from 18th – 22nd November all over east Belfast. The C. S Lewis Festival celebrates the legacy of C. S. Lewis, one of the most intellectual and influential authors of the 20th Century. Celebrations of his life and work will manifest as lectures, talks, poetry, theatre, film screenings, and exhibitions. This year promises to see some firm favoruites, new ideas and some quirky events across the full five days of the festival.

With the full programme being released in October, East Belfast Life takes a look at why C.S. Lewis is important to the heritage of east Belfast.

The Man Behind the Icon C. S. Lewis, born Clive Staples Lewis, was a novelist, poet, and academic, best known for writing the wonderful world of Narnia in The Chronicles of Narnia series. He is a literary legend and a staple of the 20th Century in regards to literature and academic texts.

Lewis hailed from Strandtown in east Belfast and attended Campbell College, albeit briefly.

He was always very honest about experiencing a culture shock when he moved from Northern Ireland to England, and documented it frequently in his poetry and texts. His writing was immersed in Irish mythology and Christian symbolism that can be seen in his most popular Narnia series.

Many literary critics dis-

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cuss how deep Lewis delved into the links between Northern Ireland and its history and popular story telling.

Later, east Belfast would be just as ingrained with C. S. Lewis’s legacy as his birthplace was ingrained into his own life and work.

The Icon of the Man East Belfast remembers C. S. Lewis through the countless statues, monuments, murals, and open spaces found in and around the east of the city. From walking trails to the C. S. Lewis Square, east Belfast remembers the author and the man who offers valuable heritage to the people and places he lived and learned around. The C. S. Lewis festival brings the pride and entertainment in the historical figure, the literary legend, and his wonderful stories to the modern day audience and ensures he will never be forgotten in his original home.

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Belfast Community Gospel Choir Belfast Community Gospel Choir performed a spectacular show at St.Patrick’s Church, Ballymacarrett recently. The choir have an impressive lists of past performances including TV appearances, corporate parties, performing for heads of state and royalty as well putting on shows in New York and Boston. Their performances are energetic and artfully put together by Belfast founder and director, Marie Lacey.

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01. The Belfast Community Gospel choir at St Patrick’s Church, Ballymacarrett.

02. Nathanja and dad, Gert Ritmeester from the Netherlands 03. Frances Jackson and Rhonda Davenport from Whitehouse Presbyterian Church 04. St Patrick’s Church rector and wife John and Linda Cunningham.

05. Neil Fullerton and Joanne Friel.

06. Helen and Wesley Knight.

07. Eastside volunteers Gaynor Kane, Diane Lowry, Sheena McCaugherty and Jacqueline O’Hagan.

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East Belfast Life

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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

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

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

establishment, an intimate restaurant for a romantic meal, a catch-up with friends, or a quick cup of coffee 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.

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

CAFE SMART

RUBY’S

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.

Ruby’s serves lunch, dinner, coffee, drinks and desserts with a unique and varied menu that will get your tastebuds tingling. Expect all the great food, cocktails and live music that Ruby’s is known for.

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

793 Upper Newtownards Road Dundonald T: 028 9048 0004

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.

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.

4 Belmont Road T: 028 9065 6590

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

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

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East Belfast Life

111 Newton Park T: 028 9070 7970 www.thefourwinds.co.uk THE STOKERS HALT At The Stokers you can enjoy delicious food, a selection of hand crafted ales and lagers or an exciting range of freshly mixed cocktails.

They have created a relaxed environment to enhance their customers’ down time whether you’re dropping in for a coffee, having a business meeting, celebration or just getting together with some mates, The Stokers does it all.

199 Upper Newtownards Road, Ballyhackamore 02890 921 920 www.stokershalt.com

Olivers Restaurant Olivers Restaurant is a casual dining establishment showcasing an exqusite and vibrant menu, with varied dishes, created with the best of local produce.

405 Upper Newtownards Rd 028 9067 1105 www.oliversknock.com

East Belfast : DINING OUT

GRAZE

THE POET

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!

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

Kings Square, Kings Road T: 028 9040 1248 www.lonelypoetbelfast.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 Little Wing offers a large variety of mouth watering pizzas, coupled with tempting desserts, which should definitely satisfy the palates of its hungry customers.

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

OLIVER’S COFFEE BAR More than a great coffee shop, Oliver’s Cafe provides sweet treats to luscious lunches and delightful bites inbetween. Relax with a coffee and treat yourself to an amazing feast at competitive prices.

57 Belmont Road T: 028 9065 6384 www.oliverscoffeebar.com 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

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

East Point Entertainment Village, Old Dundonald Rd, Dundonald T: 028 9048 3407 www.wagamamani.com

SPOON STREET 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 THIRTY SIX 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.

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.

36 Belmont Road T: 028 9065 7476

Horatio Todd’s

Delicious home-cooked produce and only using the finest ingredients, Brae Cafe serves up a treat for its customers. There is always something tempting on offer, so why not treat yourself to a visit?

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!

121 Gilnahirk Road T:028 9079 1823

406 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 3090

BRAE CAFE

Based in Dundonald’s Entertainment Village, wagamama offers the best of Japanese-inspired cuisine. From curry to noodles, it is guaranteed to offer excellent service with healthy treats, using fresh produce and a modern flair.

SD BELLS

269-275 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9080 2888

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

Wagamama

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.

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

East Belfast Life 27

Thai with a twist Camile recently opened in Ballyhackamore, providing its customers with healthy thai street food with a twist. If you’re interested in healthy and tasy food then check them out in their new premises.

Unit 3, 322 Upper Newtownards Road, BT4 3EX www.camile.co.uk

All of your favourites Restaurant 227 serves all of your favourite food with great customer service and excellent music with your meal. Homely food for all the family.

93a Cregagh Road, Belfast

NEW KIDS ON THE...

BLOCK

We look at the latest cafes and restaurants to hit east Belfast

Inside the hub of the east JACK Coffee Shop opened with the EastSide Visitor Centre. It’s worth a visit if you’re taking advantage of the new C.S. Lewis Square or would like to meet the international community of Globe Cafe who meet every Tuesday.

Eastside Visitor Centre, CS Lewis Square, 402 Newtownards Road

A new light Lamppost Cafe is now under new management. The C.S. Lewis inspired cafe has had a makeover, so why not check it out for family tea and a magical trip to Narnia?

19 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast 28

South Belfast Life

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

A Cool & Quirky Cafe Brae is a cool & quirky café situated in Gilnahirk, opposite Gilnahirk P.S. and Our Lady and St Pat’s. They serve delicious home-cooked produce using the finest local ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying their healthy or indulgent breakfasts, homemade soups & sweet treats, or popular Bistro nights, Brae provide service with a smile.

CAFE ON THE HILL

Brae - Café on the Hill 121 Gilnahirk Road, Belfast BT5 7QL

Tel: 028 9079 1823

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East Belfast Life

Start the day with a healthy breakfast pot with layers of homemade fruit compote, Greek yoghurt and oats and seeds, or listen to the devil on your shoulder and enjoy delicious Eggs Benedict or Eggs Royale, smothered in indulgent hollandaise sauce. Using Givans bacon, award winning Hannans sausages and magnificent Clonakilty Black puddings, their variety of frys are hard to beat. On to lunch, and home made soups are the order of the day. Their constantly changing specials include seafood chowder, chorizo and chickpea or Chicken laksa noodle soup. There is always something to tempt.

Brae offer a wide range of hot and cold sandwiches using delicious Yellow Door breads, or you can try something more substantial such as fish cakes with poached egg and Hollandaise using Ewings award winning fish, or a steak sandwich paired with red onion marmalade and horseradish.

Brae - Café On The Hill 121 Gilnahirk Road, Belfast BT5 7QL

BEAT THE CLOCK Starters

Main Course Ma

Simply Soup

Fish & Chips

ORDER BETWEEN

ORDER BETWEEN

5.00PM AND 6.00PM

6.00PM AND 7.00PM

2 Courses for £10.50 3 Courses for £13.50

2 Courses for £13.50 3 Courses for £16.50 Dessert

served with Peas and Tartar Sauce

Sticky Toffee Pudding Pavlova Ice-Cream Selection Cheesecake of the Day

served with Wheaten Bread

Chinese Ribs (GF) served with Apple Stew, Rocket Garnish

Salt and Chilli Chicken (GF) served with a Salad of Pickled Onion, Carrot, Rocket, Chilli Jam, Aioli

Goats Cheese Bruschetta (v) with a Red Wine and Balsamic Drizzle

“Gastro” Burger Lasagne

Cheddar, Bacon, Pickled Onion Rings, Peppercorn Sauce, Choice of Side Order

served with Garlic Soda Bread, Coleslaw and Choice of Side Order

Chicken Goujons Chicken Curry

served with Garlic Mayo Dip and Choice of Side Order

Side Orders

served with Basmati Rice and Poppadom (GF)

Cajun Chicken Burger

Sweet Potato Gnocchi (v) Goats Cheese Fritters (v) Vegetable Curry (v)

Chips Garlic Chips Mash Champ Salad Pickled Onion Rings Sweet Potato Fries (£1 extra)

served with Lettuce, Tomato , Chilli Mayonnaise and a Choice of Side Order served with Thyme, Caramelised Onion, Roast Broccoli, Choice of Side Order served with a Tomato and Lime Salsa, Aioli, Choice of Side Order

served with Basmati Rice and Poppadom (GF)

(GF) Gluten Free (v) Vegetarian

2 Sullivan Pl, Holywood BT18 9JF Phone: 028 9543 7639

2 Sullivan Pl, Holywood BT18 9JF Phone: 028 9543 7639

To Begin...

Then...

Carrot and Coriander Soup

County Down Roast Turkey and Ham

Irish Cheesboard Selection

Served with Homemade Wheaten Bread

Served with Sage Stuffing, Chipolata Sausages and Traditional Garnich

Served with grapes, crackers and Port (£4 Supplement)

Served with a Mayo Dip, Chilli Jam, Aioli

10oz Sirloin Steak

Salted Caramel Sticky Toffee Pudding Served with Honeycomb Ice Cream

Goats Cheese Bruschetta (v)

Served with Portabello Mushroom, Pickled Onion Rings, Peppersorn Sauce and Twice-Cooked Chips (£4 Supplement)

Salt and Chilli Chicken

with Flower Honey and Pine Nut Dressing

Pearl Barley and Smoked Salmon Risotto Chicken Liver and Port Parfait Served with Apple and Cranberry Chutney

Vegetarian Risotto (v) Broccoli, Carrot, Pea, Cherry Vine Tomatoes

Chicken and Parma Ham Supreme Served with Sprouting Broccoli, Pomme Puree, Creamy Mushroom Sauce

And Finally

Strawberry Pavlova Chocolate Brownie Served with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, Raspberry Coulis

Ice Cream Selection Served with Chef’s Shortbread

Honey and Mustard Crusted Salmon Served with Creamed Spinach, Roast Garlic and Herb Potatoes

£18 32

3 Course Christmas Lunch

East Belfast Life

Available Tuesday - Saturday from 12 noon to 3.00pm

£22

3 Course Christmas Dinner Available Tuesday - Thursday from 5.00pm to 9.00pm and Sunday from 12 noon to 6.00pm

£25

3 Course Christmas Dinner

Available Friday and Saturday from 5.00pm to 9.00pm ***INCLUDES LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FROM 9PM TO 11PM***

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Wellbeing Ensures Excellence at RBAI RBAI has traditionally equipped pupils to excel in both academic and extra-curricular pursuits. Head of Well-Being Mr Jack Allen believes “At Inst we are developing a Wellbeing programme to build upon the foundations that are at the core of our school.” Ben Connolly, current Head Boy has found the programme has already benefitted him and attributes the 4 As he achieved in his AS exams to the balance in school; “We completed a survey on our wellbeing and the results allowed me to understand how I view life. I play golf and rugby for the 5th XV rugby team; the balance between academic work and physical exercise allows me to be at my best.”

Congratulations to Angus Harley who achieved 4A stars in his A2 exams and is going to Cambridge to read Engineering.

Ben Connolly achieved 4As in his AS examinations and has also been announced as this year’s Head of School.

Well done Ben!

James KavanaghCranston, Stephen McAuley and Tom Lavery receiving their GCSE results.

Proud parents Mr and Mrs Khumalo and brother Methembe celebrate Nkosinathi’s excellent 10 Astar and one A grades at GCSE.

Outgoing Head of School Theo Millar led by example with 2A stars and 2As in his A2 exams.

South Belfast Life 33 03 East Belfast Life

HEART OF THE ARTS EAST BELFAST IS THE LIVE BEATING HEART OF THE ARTS WITH THE ENTIRE AREA BUZZING WITH THE FINEST FILM, THEATRE, POETRY AND OTHER DRAMATIC PERFORMANCES. HERE WE HAVE CONSTRUCTED A LIST OF WHAT IS GOING ON AT THE HEART OF THE ARTS IN EAST BELFAST AND SURROUNDING AREAS.

STRAND ARTS CENTRE MALOJIAN 19th October, 8pm Artist Malojian specially recorded his new single ‘Some New Bones’ on location at Rathlin Island East Lighthouse. Filmmaker Colm Laverty captured the process through a documentary as part of the BFI Coast and Sea celebration of maritime heritage. A visual DJ will mix coastalthemed visuals from the Northern Ireland Screen Digital Film Archive as the backdrop of the gig.

OPEN HOUSE ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL 29th October, 11am Architect Mark Hackett and Strand Arts Centre

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East Belfast Life

CEO Mimi Turtle will talk about the design challenges and opportunities presented by the planned renovation of this 1930s art deco gem.

Includes a tour of the building. Tickets are free.

PARANORMAL TOUR 13-31st October, 11pm Join a paranormal tour in Strand Arts Centre, which will take place in the dark or dim-lighted areas in the building where paranormal activity has been reported.

DIRTY DANCING PARTY NIGHT 24th November, 8pm Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the classic film with a glass of bubbly and some live dance performances.

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KNOCKNAGONEY COMMUNITY CENTRE COMMUNITY CHOIR 9th February - 31st December Every Thursday evening everyone is welcome to join the Knocknagoney Community Centre Community Choir funded by Comic Relief.

INTERGENERATIONAL SAMBA BAND 8th February - 31st December You can join the new Intergenerational Samba Band every Wednesday at Knocknagoney Community Centre. This event is suitable for everyone over the age of eight and is a great family event. Funded by Comic Relief.

PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE NORTHERN IRELAND WESTERN FRONT ASSOCIATION 2017 PROGRAM 12th October The Western Front Association is hosting a series of meetings and lectures at 6.30 pm on evenings throughout 2017.

Meetings are open to the public and everyone is welcome.

Meetings run from 6.30 pm to 8.45 pm.

THE OCTOBER REVOLUTION IN RUSSIA: THE IMPACT OF COMMUNISM IN IRELAND 25th October, 10am To coincide with the 100th anniversary of the October Revolution, PRONI is pleased to invite you to a conference exploring the Impact of Communism in Ireland, to be held at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) on 25 October 2017 at 10.00am.

ULSTER FOLK AND TRANSPORT MUSEUM A STEP IN TIME: THE STORY OF IRISH DANCE 27th June - 5th November This exhibition charts the history of Irish Dance from the late 1800s to present day, through costume, embroidery, images and film.

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FESTIVAL, CULTRA 31st October Have spooktacular fun at the Halloween Family Festival at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. Fun for all the family.

CRAFT CLASSES Throughout the year Be sure to check out the widely popular craft classes hosted by the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. These creative and ambitious lessons can range from Tiffany Glass to Blacksmithing. Find tickets on their website.

TICKET TO RIDE: A HISTORY OF BUSES IN NORTHERN IRELAND 19th October, 10am To coincide with the 50th anniversary of Ulsterbus, PRONI is pleased to invite you to a half day conference on road transport in Ireland over the last half century on Thursday 19 October 2017, 10.00 am to 12.30 pm.

ARTISANN GALLERY ACQUIRED RESILIENCE BY PATRICK COLHOUN 5-28th October Patrick Colhoun’s third solo exhibition of 2017, this one features a natural sequel to his previous exhibitions. The artist observes that most people need something to help them cope with everyday reality, and for the artist, it’s the making process of art. The art and sculptures beautifully consider the process of turning thoughts and feelings into tangible objects. Admission is free and all art is available to buy.

NOVEMBER: CIARAN HARPER TBC ArtisAnn’s November exhibtion will be by Ciaran Harper. For more information check out their website.

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South Belfast Life East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

ANNUAL EXHIBITION FOR MARGEY AT CULLODEN THIS AUTUMN After a busy summer staging successful exhibitions at his Portrush studio and in County Fermanagh, artist Adrian Margey is set to hold his annual one man show at Culloden Estate & Spa Belfast from Thursday 26th – Sunday 29th October 2017. The exhibition and sale of work will comprise forty original pieces depicting some of Northern Ireland’s best loved landscapes and landmarks. Portrayals of North Down, Ards, The North Antrim Coast and Belfast will be central to this latest collection. The artist will be on hand throughout the exhibition to discuss his work and accept commissions ahead of Christmas. Margey’s portfolio is available to view at www.adrianmargey.com ahead of the exhibition.

Telephone 07841593762 for more information.

‘Portrush Harbour’ by Adrian Margey

‘Portstewart Sunset’

‘Belfast City Hall’ by Adrian Margey

‘Donaghadee Calm’

‘Mount Stewart’

Bloomfield College Alumni Succeeds at Stranmillis College Three ex-Bloomfield College students – Stephanie Andrews, Lauren Reaney, and Beth Davis – received prestigious awards for outstanding academic achievement from Stanmillis University College at the college’s annual awards ceremony. Beth accepted a personal hat trick of awards, winning The Susan Curry Award for the final year Religious Studies student, the Gail Addison Memorial Prize as the graduating BEd (Post-Primary) student who has shown particular notable promise as a classroom practitioner and the Vere Foster Medal, awarded to the most distinguished student. Stephanie won the O’Neill Prize, which is presented annually to a Year One and Year Two student who has obtained the highest average mark across all modules on their Health, Physical Activity and Sport BA course. Lauren won the Wylie Prize for excellence in final year Education Studies dissertation for the BEd undergraduate course.

Commenting on the trio’s awards, Dr. Anne Haslett, Principle of Stranmillis University College, said: “At Stranmillis, our aim is to make a real lasting impact on the lives of Beth children. Ensuring that we produce Davis. teachers and educators who are trained and equipped to meet the needs of today’s demanding educational environment is vital.

“Our congratulations not only go to the girls, but to their parents, families, and all the schools and teachers who have helped nurture and shape their wonderful talents.”

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East Belfast Life

Lauren Reaney.

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Dawn Crothers Exhibition The Birthstone Snail Exhibition by Dawn Crothers was showcased in Whalley Fine Art. The show was opened by Dame Mary Peters and was in aid of her charity the ‘Dame Mary Peters Trust’ which supports young people in sport. Each of the 12 birthstone snails were hand finished and decorated by Dawn and she also produced one large scale circular painting which encapsulates all the birthstones on one canvas which measures 4ft in diameter.

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01. Shannon Bracken, Sharon McWhirter and Judith Bracken.

02. Dawn Purvis and Bobby Rodgers.

03. Patience Bradley and Dawn Crothers.

04. Helen Lyons and Julie Jackson.

05. Lynn O’Hara and Dame Mary Peters.

06. Dawn Crothers and Dame Mary Peters.

07. Vanessa Callender and Kerry Green with Eve Green and Elizabeth Callender.

08. Joan Little, Jenni Robinson and Debbi Hodkinson.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : SOCIAL

Lagan College: Round Up

CHARITY S.O.S BUS SUPPORT

Senior students presenting ‘Homeless Care Packages’ to Mr Joe Hyland, CEO of the SOS Bus Team.

Mrs Roisin Marshall, CEO of NICIE, was the guest of honour at this year’s Junior Prize Ceremony.

SENIOR PRIZE DAY ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS

Award winning students pictured at the Senior Prize Ceremony this September.

The Lagan College All-Ireland winning basketball team!

LAUNCH OF INTEGRATED CAMP CAMILLA WEEK Pictured at the launch of the integrated Camp Camilla week, Professor John Barry (QUB), Camilla Ballard, Olivia Nash, Clare Bailey MLA, Roisin Marshall (NICIE), Brian Small (IEF) and Principal of Lagan College, Mrs Amanda McNamee.

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East Belfast Life

A-LEVEL RESULTS SUCCESS! Hayley Carson (A*, A*, A) and Nicholas Jamison (A*, A, B) pictured with Principal Mrs McNamee on A-Level results day!

1a BloomďŹ eld Road, Belfast, BT5 5LR | T: 028 9046 0100 | Online booking available at www.beautyculture.co.uk

Beauty Culture

Beauty Culture 1a

beauty culture Belfast

Beauty Culture

East Belfast : SPORT

PITCHSIDE THE TRACK, THE GREEN, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN: A LOOK AT THE HISTORY, CULTURE, EVENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS SURROUNDING SPORTING LIFE IN THE EAST OF THE CITY AND SURROUNDING AREAS.

HISTORY, OLD SPORT GLENTORAN FOOTBALL CLUB Glentoran Football Club was founded in 1882 and uses the club colours of red, green and black. The team has been playing at the Oval in Mersey Street since 1892. The Oval was completely destroyed in 1941 by German bombers during the second World War, but was rebuilt by community volunteers from the local area.

The Club is known for their success throughout history, local and abroad. They have won 82 senior trophies to date, including the Championship on 23 occasions and the Irish Cup 22 times. Glentoran were also the first British Club to ever win a European trophy – the Vienna Cup in 1914.

More recently, Glentoran has qualified to play in European competitions on 43 occasions.

Many of the club’s famous European nights have been against famous giants of the game such as Juventus, Benfica, Anderlecht, Paris St Germain, Ajax and Marseille.

The Club has a highly successful Academy consisting of over 500 boys and girls, a Disability section along with a Polish team making a total of 32 teams representing the club each week outside the senior men’s side.

2017 is the 50th anniversary of Glentoran playing in an international tournament in the USA, representing the city of Detroit. To commemorate that landmark event in the growth of soccer in the USA, the current team returned to Detroit in May to play an exhibition match against Detroit City FC.

UPCOMING GLENTORAN FIXTURES IN THE DANSKE PREMIERSHIP 7th October Ards v Glentoran 14th October Glentoran v Cliftonville 21st October Dungannon Swifts v Glentoran 28th October Coleraine v Glentoran

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East Belfast Life

4th November Glentoran v Ballymena United 11th November Glentoran v Glenavon 18th November Warrenpoint Town v Glentoran

25th November Glentoran v Ards 2nd December Crusaders v Glentoran 9th December Glentoran v Ballinamallard United 16th December Cliftonville v Glentoran

23rd December Carrick Rangers v Glentoran 26th December Glentoran v Linfield 30th December Dungannon Swifts v Glentoran

East Belfast :SPORT

DID YOU KNOW? Glentoran Football Club also has a very successful women’s team. The senior Ladies’ section won the Senior League Cup this season while the Under 19 Girls’ team won their own Championship.

GET TO KNOW:

ULSTER FIXTURES @ KINGSPAN STADIUM Ulster V Wasps: 13th October ERCC BT Sport

Ulster V Munster: 1st January Guinness Pro 14 BBCSport NI/Sky Sports

Ulster V Leinster: 28th October Pro 14 BBC Sport NI/Sky Sports

Ulster V La Rochelle: 12/13/14th January ERCC

Ulster V Benetton Rugby: 24th November Pro 14 BBCSport NI Ulster V Harlequins: 15th December ERCC BT Sport

EAST BELFAST ARCHERY CLUB East Belfast Archery Club was founded in October 2011 with seven members. They now have 28. As well as producing Olympian Patrick Huston, they have produced NI Age Champions and the All Ireland Cadet Lady Champion in 2016.

Patrick is a multiple World Age Champion and recently won the GB National Archery Series for third year running.

The club shoots indoors at Tullycarnet Community centre twice weekly and competes regularly in competitions. East Belfast Archery Club promotes competitive archery in both target and field competitions.

Ulster V Southern Kings: 9/10/11th January Pro 14 Ulster V Edinburgh: 16/17/18th February Pro 14

East Belfast Life 41

East Belfast : SOCIAL

Rugby Star Hosts Charity Golf Day Ulster Rugby’s Scrum Half Paul Marshall hosted a Charity Golf Day at The Royal Belfast Golf Club. The event raised much needed funds for Ulster Rugby’s chosen charity partner, Include Youth. A number of businesses across Northern Ireland made donations to take part in the tournament and each team had an Ulster Rugby player as their fourth member. There was also a post-game BBQ and a special comedy performance from local comedians Shane Todd and Dave Elliott.

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01. Simon Brien with Ulster Rugby’s scrum half Paul Marshall and Andrew Reid.

02. Jayne Jackson from Royal Belfast golf club pictured with Ulster Rugby stars.

03. Peter Stafford, Matt McCullough and David Rowan.

04. Simon Brien with charity day organiser Paul Marshall and Paddy Mooney from Ulster Rugby’s charity partner ’Include Youth’.

05. Ulster Rugby star Robbie Diack with golfers.

06. Peter Cunningham and Patrick Brown.

07. Ulster Rugby coach Les Kiss and Rory Best.

08. Clive Ross, Matthew Rea and David Busby.

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East Belfast Life

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OR SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

NI’s Teams Make History at the

HOMELESS WORLD CUP!

A

group of young adults, who have expereinced homelessness, returned from the 8-day Homeless World Cup tournament in Oslo recently with exceptional success.

Northern Ireland’s men’s squad made history by finishing 12th overall in the competition-NI’s highest finish to date.

The team got out of the group stages, and guaranteed a place in the last 16, with a hard one victory over Costa Rica (4-3 to NI) in one of the best games of the tournament. Another win over Ukraine put NI into 12th position-an amazing achievement in a very tough competition.

Northern Ireland’s women’s team also made history as they were the first women’s team to represent NI at the Homeless World Cup. With victories over USA and Belgium the squad also qualified into the last 16 of the tournament.

Following defeats, by the Republic of Ireland and Norway, NI’s women exceeded all expectations and finished 16th in the competition-a superb result for the first ever women’s squad.

This year’s Homeless World Cup took place

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East Belfast Life

from the 29th of August to the 5th of September in Oslo. There were 50 countries represented at this year’s competition which has been running for the past 12 years.

Brazil were this year’s men’s champions and Mexico won the women’s final.

The project is run by Street Soccer NI who use the power of football to transform the lives of people who are homeless. Street Soccer NI provide their players with support in housing, employability, and other areas where they need help and have seen the project have a huge impact on the lives of the participants.

Last year’s men’s team finished 13th in the tournament which was NIs best achievement to date. But the real benefits occurred off the pitch. Of the 9 participants involved 6 now have their own home, 3 got into full time employment, and 2 players completed coaching badges with the IFA and became qualified referees. Street Soccer NI are expecting this year’s project to have the same impact on their players.

This year’s teams were supported by: East Belfast Mission, the IFA Foundation, the Housing Executive, Simon Community NI, Belfast City Council, North Belfast Housing Association, Belfast Community Sports Development Network, and USEL.

East E Eas astt Belfast Belf elffast ast as st : SPOTLIGHT

Men’s Captain Conor Deane from Derry, who had an outstanding tournament said: ‘I was Homeless for 3 months. Street Soccer and the Homeless World Cup has helped me wise up and see things differently and not to give up when things are hard. I am now motivated to work instead of just lying about on the dole also I want to get into coaching because football is my passion’.

Conor is currently playing for Maidan City and previously played for Institute. Conor also represented Derry in the Milk Cup and played for NI under 18s and had trials for Tranmere Rovers and Port Vale.

Squ member, Steven Hawkins, (the only person to score a header in the tournament) Squad said said: ‘this has been the best experience of my life. I will never forget it and I want to thank tha all the staff and funders who made it possible. I wish I was starting again! I’ve seen a change in myself from being part of this team. It’s helped me deal with my se anger and other issues I face which have had a big negative impact on my life. Today a an Is started looking for work. I also want to get my own home and complete coaching q u qualifications.

My dream is to become a coach and return to the Homeless World Cup, Cup support the team, and to help other people see the same changes in their lives’.

S te Stephen currently lives at Hosford the homelessness service of East Belfast Mission.

Captain Claire Masterson, who scored one of the goals of the tournament said; ‘The atmosphere was incredible, I’ve made so many friendships, and being part of the team was like having a family around me. I’ve struggled with mental health issues and this experience has really helped me to have a positive outlook on life. Also meeting people from other countries who have it much harder than me makes me realise how lucky I am. I haven’t coached football for 5 years-but I now have that buzz back and I want to get back involved with coaching and support others’.

Goal Goa Keeper Ashley Young said: ‘It was the best experience ever. The atm atmosphere was amazing and I have met friends from all over the world.

I’v been homeless for 2 years; It’s given me the motivation I lacked-I now I’ve want wa to get a house, get a job, and in two weeks I’m starting a qualification in security. I also want to go to the Homeless World Cup next year as a vo volunteer.’

East Belfast Life

45

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

A Hot New Look

Why make an Enduring Power of Attorney?

Owned and ran by local man Trevor Best,Electric Fires NI are based at Unit 27 North City Business Centre, Duncairn Gardens. They supply a fantastic range of quality electric fires and suites throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Electric Fires NI has brought together a wide selection of electric fires and suites, allowing for choices that combine design flair with quality and affordability in their newly refurbished show room.

The short answer is that it is an exercise of good judgment. With our increased longevity comes the reality that many of us may reach a stage when we are no longer mentally capable of managing our money and affairs. At Mackenzie & Dorman Solicitors we encourage our clients to plan for their future by appointing a trusted person or persons to manage their affairs should they become mentally incapable. By making an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPoA) you can choose who will act for you rather than having the Courts appoint someone under a complicated and expensive application. The cost of making an EPoA is quite modest. It may never be needed but if it is it will save a lot of time, inconvenience and expense.

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We hope you will follow this advice and contact us for more information on 028 9067 3211.

Castlereagh Updated Aidan Campbell Launches His Latest Book in October 2017 Castlereagh Updated is Aidan Campbell’s latest local history book and will be officially published on Friday 13th October 2017 at Hillmount Garden Centre, Gilnahirk @ 10.30am – all welcome.

It follows on from the publication of 12 local histories covering areas of East Belfast, one on South Belfast and one on Greater Belfast.

On this occasion the subject is Castlereagh Updated which is an update of an earlier book with newly discovered photographic records of how life has developed on the Castlereagh Road over the past century.

The name of Castlereagh is described in A Dictionary of Ulster Place-Names by Patrick McKay as “Irish, An Caislean Riabhach ‘the grey castle’. Castlereagh is named from a stone house or castle which was the stronghold of the Clandeboye O’Neills in the 16th century.�

Where does the Castlereagh Updated story begin and end in terms of this

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East Belfast Life

book? It involves a journey, including old photographs and reminiscences, which begins at Castlereagh Street, crosses the Beersbridge Road into Castlereagh Road and then travels to Ballygowan Road and Castlereagh Village. There are diversions to Loopland, Orangefield, Montgomery Road, Church Road, Manse Road and Lisnabreeny.

There are views of big houses, small

houses, businesses, factories, schooldays, community groups, social occasions, wartime, public transport including trams and trolleybuses and suburbia. Many of these scenes are remarkably unchanged and whilst some of the semi-rural character remains, many locations have been swept away and are unrecognizable following recent developments.

East Belfast : SOCIAL

New Concern Worldwide Bookshop Concern Worldwide has officially opened a new bookshop on Church Road, Holywood. Nick Cann, author of Jake’s Eulogy, On the Island and the forthcoming Personal Effects, joined shop volunteers to welcome customers as the shop opened its doors. The new shop will raise funds to support Concern Worldwide’s work tackling hunger with the most vulnerable people in the world’s poorest places. The shop is stocked with around 4,000 second-hand books, all of which have been donated by the public.

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01. Holywood author Nick Cann with shop manager Aileen McKee and Concern NI Director Peter Anderson at the Holywood bookshop.

02. Concern NI director Peter Anderson, author Nick Cann and Aileen McKee. 03. Concern bookshop volunteer Jim Henry, author Nick Cann, volunteers Denise D-H, Aileen McKee, Terry Woodhouse, Jackie Bates and Becca Gilmore and Concern NI Director Peter Anderson.

04. Shop customers Paul and Marie Browne and shop volunteer Terry Woodhouse.

05. Shop manager Aileen McKee with customer Trish Whitely.

06. Author Nick Cann signs copies of his books donated to the Concern bookshop.

07. Concern NI director Peter Anderson.

08. Concern bookshop volunteers Jim Henry, Denise D-H, Aileen McKee, Terry Woodhouse, Jackie Bates and Becca Gilmore.

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East Belfast Life

47

East Belfast : SOCIAL

The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club Annual Regatta Ball The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club held its annual Regatta Ball recently. This year the sun was kind for those enjoying the Royal North lawn and the stunning views across Belfast Lough, before sitting down to a sumptuous meal.

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01. Jonathan Mitchell, Holly Campbell, Gary Lyons and Gerry Reid.

02. Philip and Lynsay Agnew, Patrick and Susann Brown, Edward Johnston and Michael Corey.

03. Robin Herron, Fred Campbell, Andrew Moag, John Moag, Tony Wise and Richard Goldstone.

04. Barbara Gray, Marilyn Patterson, Claire Marshall.

Claire Cronin and Jenny Ferns.

05. Susan Carroll, Ciara Ralston and Sara Ord. 06. Jenny Ferns, Heather Stewart, Tracy Hagan and Amanda Johnston.

07. Johnny Weston and Sean Truesdale.

08. Rescue Team - Rosemary King, Gary Lyons, Jane Holmes, Jennifer Whittaker, George King, Charlie McCambridge, Helena McCambridge, Colin Edgar, Jonathan Mitchell, Graeme Campbell and Julie Edgar.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : PEOPLE IN PROFILE

Kirsty Finney, of Rodgers & Finney Estate Agents, tells us...

“WHY I LOVE...

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

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST?

I always knew I wanted to work in property so when I left school at 17, I started working in estate agency. Since then I have worked with three of Northern Ireland’s leading agencies and built up over ten years of experience in the industry.

East Belfast has really developed over that last few years with restaurants, bars, shops and cafés popping up all over the place.

Everything is within walking distance too and everyone is so pleasant so it’s a lovely place to socialise.

Now, at the age of 29, I have started up my own agency, Rodgers & Finney, along with my friend and business partner, Natasha Rodgers.

We’re based in Ballyhackamore and both sell and seek properties right across Northern Ireland.

HOW DOES LIVING IN EAST BELFAST COMPARE TO OTHER PLACES YOUR HAVE LIVED? There is so much more to see and do; you can spend your afternoon here catching up with friends over lunch or treat yourself to a hair treatment and a night out on the tiles. It’s all here!

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL WORKING DAY? My days are always very busy and no two days are ever the same.

Some tasks can be more office based, negotiating deals or promoting properties, while others mean I am out and about across Northern Ireland. We assist clients when they move into a new property or support them when they are leaving their old one, and we also prepare houses for viewings.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Spare time for me means family time, and I love nothing more than taking my nephew out for the day. Hearing his little giggle is the best stress reliever so that is my favourite way to relax.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? Rodgers & Finney Estate Agents, of course! However it won’t be hidden for too long.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? I really like Graze restaurant. The food is beautiful and they stock some great gins - both local and international.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE EAST BELFAST IN THREE WORDS? Vibrant, cosmopolitan and sociable. What’s not to love about that?

Kirsty’s favourite restaurant is Graze.

Ballyhackamore is the home to Kirsty’s new business, Rodgers & Finney Estate Agents.

East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

In ProямБle:

RODGERS & FINNEY

East Belfast : IN PROFILE

Two of Northern Ireland’s youngest female entrepreneurs have this month launched the region’s newest Estate Agents - Rodgers & Finney - at state-ofthe-art premises in Ballyhackamore in Belfast. Working on residential sales, lettings, new developments and block management, Rodgers & Finney is the newest estate agents to open in Belfast for many years. The new company will employ six people.

One of the partners behind the business - Natasha Rodgers explains the importance of integrity and trust when it comes to selling and buying your home and why she and Kirsty decided now was the time to set up their own business.

Changing Market Although we are a new estate agency, together we bring nearly twenty years experience in the property sector and a fresh and unique style of doing business.

house for you, whether it’s a family home, first property, upgrading or downsizing.

Our services When it comes to buying or selling a home, a meaningful and realistic valuation is essential.

As a business that prides itself on a high standard of professionalism, we commit to being honest with our customers about valuations and are totally committed to maximising their return. There are many easy steps you can take to increase the value of your home, and taking this time before putting your home on the market is more worthwhile than you think.

Valuations are just one element of our work.

At Rodgers & Finney we specialise in all kinds of buying, selling and lettings, as well as block management and new developments.

Confidence in the market The housing market often hits the headlines, sometimes for the wrong reasons, but we see a growing confidence in the market across Northern Ireland. The strength of housing helped us make the decision to start Rodgers

& Finney. We know the market well enough to see the high quality and range of houses, and our skill at matching people to the best house for them is key to satisfying our customers.

New build housing is beginning to see an upturn, with high quality affordable homes being built after a difficult period for the sector. For many people turnkey is the best option - a hassle free experience for a family perhaps - while others want to have their own personal touch on their new home from the beginning. It is a really good time to look at a new build home, be it in Belfast or the many beautiful commuter towns.

Passion for property It’s not too much of an exaggeration to say that we both have a passion for property.

We’ve seen the sheer joy and happiness of a family as they move into their new home, where their family will grow and memories will be made. The part we play in that brings us happiness too, and that is why we put in the long hours and hard work.

What makes us stand out from more established estate agencies is the fact we embrace change, are constantly challenging tradition. We have a strong desire to improve the way our industry operates and our forwardthinking, innovative attitude is designed to offer a professional, efficient service on a friendlier level.

Both the wider property market and the specific needs of homeowners and tenants have changed dramatically over the last decade, however some organisations within the property sector have failed to keep up with these changes. It’s a business that needs a renewed approach and that’s one of the reasons we set up Rodgers & Finney.

Trust Building a strong relationship with each of our clients is our number one priority. Today’s consumer needs a trusted resource they can rely on. We believe that only a tailored service that meets the needs of each individual will result in success. For that reason, we offer a personal approach and focus on customer relationships to fully understand exactly what you need.

Everyone’s dream home is different. It may have a charming garden or a spectacular view.

It may have the perfect kitchen for a budding chef or a dining room for the host with the most. It may even be close to work or the local school, we take the time to find out what matters most to you.

We want to help you match all the things that you value in your new home with the best

East Belfast Life 51

FIXED FEE MAY BE SUBJECT TO VAT

A P R IC E SO G O O D T H AT W E L IK E TO W R IT E IT B IG !

ABSOLUTELY NO HIDDEN OR UPFRONT COSTS AND IF YOU DECIDE NOT TO LET, WE WON’T CHARGE YOU ANYTHING

WE LIST YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY ON OUR WEBSITE, PROPERTY NEWS & PROPERTY PAL FOR A PROMINENT PLACE ON ALL MAJOR PROPERTY PORTALS

EXTENDED OPENING HOURS IN ALL OUR OFFICES SO APPOINTMENTS & VIEWINGS CAN BE ARRANGED TO SUIT YOU

WE OFFER A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PACKAGE AS WELL SO YOU CAN LEAVE ALL THE HARD WORK TO US

FOR AN UP TO DATE LIST OF OUR RENTAL PROPERTIES CALL IN TO ANY OF OUR BRANCHES OR YOU CAN VISIT VISIONPROPERTYAGENTS.CO.UK

285–287 Castlereagh Road | 028 9070 2999 | info@visionpropertyagents.co.uk

Vision_EB Life Aug17_print.indd 1

27/08/2017 15:46

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Human Jigsaw highlights community in the Connswater Greenway More than 100 people have created an outsized jigsaw replicating a map of the Connswater Community Greenway to celebrate the official opening of the east Belfast attraction.

Belfast’s Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Sonia Copeland, was joined at the ‘Piece Together’ event by the UK Chair of the Big Lottery Fund, Peter Ainsworth, and other stakeholders to celebrate the completion of construction works.

The £40 million project - funded by the Big Lottery Fund, the council, the Department for Communities, and the Department for Infrastructure - links the Connswater, Loop and Knock rivers to provide a 9km linear park connecting people and places.

It has helped to regenerate the east Belfast area, and provide a superb space for physical and social activities while linking communities from the Castlereagh Hills to Belfast Lough.

In addition, £13 million provided by the Department for Infrastructure as part of the East Belfast Flood Alleviation scheme was incorporated into the Community Greenway works. This will help protect 1,700 homes from the risks of flooding, so adding

even more to project’s community benefits.

Councillor Copeland said: “Connswater Community Greenway is not just an asset to east Belfast it has become a destination stop for visitors too providing as it does a very different view of an industrial city.

“Seven tourism and heritage trails, 23 new or improved bridges, 5km of restored waterways, Narnia themed public art pieces and the wonderful CS Lewis Square have been created as part of the project. This is in large part thanks to the generosity of the Big Lottery Fund and National Lottery Players as well as the ratepayers of Belfast.

“As part of the Belfast Agenda we want to create a great city and neighbourhood living experience - Connswater Community Greenway fulfils those aims. It highlights a large part of the history of this part of Belfast, celebrating as it does famous writers and artistes, as well as memorable places en-route.

“It has been a challenge and an opportunity and as we move forward with the Belfast Agenda to improve the quality of life for people living, working or visiting Belfast, we will

incorporate many of the lessons learned as the Connswater Community Greenway came into being,” said the Deputy Lord Mayor.

“This is a community asset in which the communities themselves had an important input, providing a real sense of ownership which they will continue to enjoy for generations to come.

“Who can forget Belfast’s cultural and historical contribution as they pass over the Sam Thompson or James Ellis Bridges, sing along with Van the Man or celebrate Narnia?”

Community groups and funders each walked separate parts of the Connswater Community Greenway before coming together from all directions under the gaze of Aslan at CS Lewis Square. Since its creation as part of the Greenway the Square has become one of the most attractive meeting spaces in Belfast.

Other improvement include realigning the Knock River in Victoria and Orangefield Parks to lessen the risk of flooding and make the river more of a feature. Two new play parks and multi-use games areas have been created for families to enjoy.

The Greenway serves 23 schools and colleges providing safe access and routes for young people and families to walk, cycle, hop, or skate. Along the Greenway 1,105 new trees, 17,434m2 of wildflowers, and 7,267 new shrubs have been planted. The Conn O Neill Bridge – an archaeological focal point and subject of Van Morrison’s ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ was carefully restored. The Connswater Community Greenway logo reflects the meeting of the Connswater, Loop and Knock rivers at the Hollow.

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East Belfast Life

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Dingles Builders have been building quality homes in Northern Ireland for almost 50 years. With a reputation for the

most exacting high standards and a continued attention to detail, you can be assured of quality you can rely on when you purchase a Dingles home.

As with all Dingles homes, customers will be able to personalise their kitchens, tiling

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Millreagh is in the envialble position of being directly adjacent to the countryside, capturing the essence of country living, whilst being moments from Dundonald village and conveniently located a short drive from both east Belfast and Newtownards.

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East Belfast : NEWS

New Landscapes East Belfast is now a hub of flourishing natural beauty; between the Connswater er Community Greenway investment and the new C.S. Lewis Square with EastSide Visitor Centre, the area is offering increasingly new and relative developments celebrating the best of the east. In this edition we take a look at some of the most recent news and investment stories hitting east Belfast, and what you can expect as resident or a visitor over the coming months.

As the tball is now protected. e Best first kicked a foo org st, Ge Tru ere e wh abl t arit spo Ch t The east Belfas the London Marathon be awarded funding by George e. to UK mm gra the in pro t r jec eve pro For t firs e Spaces ted as part of the Activ Northern Ireland, Cregagh Green is protec been born and raised in e hav to es fac ous fam st mo ÂŁ5 000 grant will ed the of ard aw one is Best t Belfast heritage. The eas in ed rain ing through a ply and his legacy is dee ipation and is protected y and community partic ivit act al sic st. phy Tru in te mo lds help pro uncil and Fie between Belfast City Co legal Deed of Dedication

CREGAGH GREEN Under New Heritage Protection 58

East Belfast Life

East Belfast : NEWS

New Bus Lanes Open on the Albertbridge Road New bus lanes opened in August along the Albertbridge Road as part of the Belfast Rapid Transit flagship project. The new lanes, open between the Newtownards Road and Castlereagh Street, now operate during peak hours, meaning 7.30am to 9.30am and 3.30pm to 6.30pm during weekdays.

They aim to increase the use of public transport in and around Belfast.

What is Belfast Rapid Transit?

The project, also known as BRT, is aiming to create a new public transport system in Belfast by allowing better access to jobs, hospitals, shops, schools, colleges, and entertainment.

The BRT system will use “high quality rapid transit vehicles� according to NI Infrastructure.

Connswater Community Greenway Release New Walking Map

Pick up a copy at the EastSide Visitor Centre!

East Belfast Life

59

Framar Health

Tertia Molenaar de Vries

COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CLINIC

Tertia with her late father Jan de Vries

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Framar Health COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CLINIC

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East Belfast Life

The late Jan de Vries held his Northern Ireland Clinic at Framar Health for more than 25 years and we are happy that his daughter Tertia Molenaar de Vries who worked with her father for over 30 years continues to run this very busy clinic each month.

Appointments are available once a month when Tertia attends the Framar Health Clinic at 595 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GS For further details or to check availability of appointments with Tertia please contact the Framar Health Clinic reception

Framar Health COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CLINIC

595 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GS t: 028 9068 1018 e: info@framarhealth.com

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Up Up and Away with Hillmount Owner Robin Mercer East Belfast man, Robin Mercer, owner of Hillmount Garden Centre, has literally just returned from the starry skies after competing in one of the hot air ballooning calendar’s most prestigious events.

For the 19th time, Robin was the only competitor from the island of Ireland to participate in the international Sagrantino Challenge Cup in Italy with over 50 competitors from across the globe and although he didn’t bring home the prize of 1,000 bottles of wine, he has won the competition in previous years. He had the opportunity to choreograph a night time balloon light show for the 50 plus competitors and admits when he’s not managing his family owned garden centre, there’s nowhere else he’d rather be than high above ground in his balloon.

Robin said: “Ballooning is something really special. It’s a lovely way of seeing the world. It’s not like being in an airplane

or helicopter. You are able to admire the view from 360 degrees. You don’t know where you’re going to go or where you’re going to land – it’s something really special.”

His love for hot air ballooning began 20 years ago and has taken him beyond flying in Northern Ireland and Italy to competitions and festivals in USA, Philippines, France and even on a flight across the Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

Robin owns one of Northern Ireland’s favourite garden centres with his son Alan.

Hillmount has been serving the local community with a team of 80 local staff for almost 80 years.

The garden centre family’s flagship store is at Gilnahirk with a second store in Bangor and a third garden centre is being added to the family in Ards in autumn.

For more information, visit: www.hillmount.co.uk.

Lil Playaz Crowned World Champions

Lil Playaz, a dance group from east Belfast, have been crowned Under 14 World Champions in Glasgow during summer. They faced competition from 41 other crews from 33 different countries at the UDO World Street Dance Championships. Lil Playaz dance as part of Ajendance Dance Company and are between the ages of 8-11 years old.

Ajendance Dance Company also has three solo finalists; a third position in the Open Quad competition and a fifth place in the duo competition. The dance company caters for beginners to professionals of all ages and specialises in different dance styles, and in recent years have become known for their success in championships.

East Belfast Life

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FEATURE Victoria Armstrong (centre) with her colleagues at the Lamppost Café.

IN PROFILE

Victoria Armstrong, manager of Lamppost Café.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE LAMPPOST CAFÉ.

The Lamppost is an independent, family run cafe, situated on the Upper Newtownards road. The theme is inspired by local legend CS Lewis; with a teashop decor, ragtime soundtrack and everything served on vintage crockery.

There’s a homely welcoming atmosphere that caters for everyone. We are family friendly, with a changing table and baby supplies in the bathroom. We are also dog friendly, with an outside seating area and a cosy conservatory that is perfect for anyone who wants to bring along their pooch.

We also have another room upstairs that we call our ‘quiet room’; it’s very regal, relaxed and has classical FM playing in the background. We encourage people to take a break from everything and spend the day there to read, play chess or just sit by the window with their laptop and watch the world go by.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO TAKE OVER THE LAMPPOST CAFÉ FROM PREVIOUS MANAGEMENT? Well the whole thing was my mum Mary’s idea really. She had known the Lamppost’s previous owners for years and we all loved the cafe. So when they told her they wanted to pass it on to someone else, it felt like the perfect fit.

We have been wanting to set up a family business for a long time and have been looking for the right opportunity, so it was perfect timing. My whole family have worked in the hospitality industry for years and have worked all

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East Belfast Life

“So when they told her they wanted to pass it on to someone else, it felt like the perfect fit.”

around the world. We have now all come back home to Belfast with lots of experience, knowledge and a desire to create our own little haven and put everything we have learnt into action!

WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING AS A FAMILY BUSINESS? It’s as brilliant and chaotic as you can imagine. Everyone is involved; mum, brothers, sister, aunt, uncle, dad, stepmother, cousins - the whole Armstrong clan. We even have my 8 month old niece Emilia as our mascot. We joke and call her the ‘Cafe Baby’, she is gorgeous and great for morale when times get tough.

It’s brilliant for us because we all have experience in different aspects of the industry and we all know each other’s short hand, so it makes things flow really smoothly... most of the time!

WHAT IS A TYPICAL WORKING DAY LIKE FOR YOU? A typical day for us is similar to a lot of cafes. We open at 8am and get set up for breakfast - lots of the regulars come in for their morning coffee and eggs to kick start their day. We have a selection of the daily papers so people can ease into the day, just like they would at home. At lunch time we are busy helping people refuel and relax before going back to work or back to their lives and then we close at 5pm and head home for a well earned

FEATURE

glass of wine! It’s a pretty simple day but knowing you’ve been a part of making someone’s day a little bit better by a strong coffee or a delicious lunch is a great feeling.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND RENOVATING THE CAFÉ?

We loved the old Lamppost but we wanted to put our own spin on it. The most important thing was retaining the homely, welcoming character of the cafe - which I hope we’ve done - but also to breathe new life into it. So we have brightened up the place, with our take on a vintage teashop. One of our customers commented that ‘the more you look, the more you see’ which I think is brilliant because we have taken so much time to add lots of quirky subtle touches to incorporate the works of CS Lewis and also lots of beautiful artwork.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO MAKE THE CAFÉ DOG FRIENDLY? We are a family of dog lovers so when we were thinking of what we would want from a cafe it was almost the first thing that came up. I love being able to go out for the day with my dog, and not have to leave him in the house if I wanted to go for lunch or meet a friend for a coffee. Our dog is part of our family and I know lots of people who feel the same way, so being able to have them there is a wonderful thing. In the same token we know some people don’t feel the same so that’s why we have our quiet room upstairs that is dog free. It’s the best of both worlds.

WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE MENU? The inspiration behind the menu is simple: good food for a good price. We are a local

cafe so we use only local produce. All our meat and pies come from Corries Butchers, our scones, tray bakes and desserts come from Taste by Roisin and our coffee is 38 Espresso. We are passionate about shopping locally and not having to spend a fortune to do so. Nothing on our menu is over £8 and everything is made with the best quality ingredients. We also have a vegetarian menu and some gluten free and dairy free options. So there really is something so everyone.

HOW DOES LAMPPOST CAFÉ FIT INTO THE EAST BELFAST COMMUNITY? The Lamppost has been part of the East Belfast Community for years and that’s what we want to continue. We want to be a local for people to have delicious breakfast and lunch but we also have a room upstairs that we hire out for private parties and local events, so we want to support local businesses by having a beautiful space that they can use. We are already part of the East Belfast cycle scheme ‘Peddle Perks’ that gives local cycle commuters an extra stamp on our loyalty card and we are always looking for more ways to give back to the community.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT EAST BELFAST? My favourite thing about east Belfast is the people. Everyone who comes into our cafe is lovely and that’s something I’ve never experienced in all the places I’ve worked. There is a real sense of welcoming and support from everyone that we meet and it has made the process of starting a new business a joy, so thank you east Belfast.

East Belfast Life

11

AUTUMN UPDATES

ASHFIELD GIRLS

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Ashfield Girls Act as Advisors 5 pupils from Ashfield Girls’ High School in East Belfast have been selected as members of Into Film’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC).

Each member of the YAC will be the voice for over 200,000 Into Film Club members nationally.

As YAC members, the girls will be asked to look at new or existing resources provided to schools, the Into Film website and feedback to the charity. The YAC will meet throughout the year with the first meeting on 7th October in the Bullitt Hotel, Belfast but before that they will also attend a special press preview of the new film “Kingsman: The Golden Circle”.

Head of Media and Moving Image Arts, Tracy Rossborough said, “This is a great opportunity for the girls who have been members of the school’s own film club for a number of years. All girls are studying Media Studies at GCSE or A Level and being part of the council will provide them with valuable skills and experience”.

Innovative Induction

Year 13 students from Ashfield Girls’ High School in East Belfast started their new term in an original and innovative new way – with no classes! Instead the pupils had an ‘Induction Week’ whereby they attended motivational workshops and team building activities delivered by Pathways as well as in-house inspirational sessions delivered by teachers on time management, revision techniques, presentational skills, healthy cooking and eating and emotional intelligence. To enhance the pupils’ wellbeing they also participated in physical activities such as step classes and ‘mindfulness’.

Hopefully this unconventional start to a new term will provide the pupils with a range of knowledge as well as a wealth of practical strategies which will empower them as they embark on their A Level journey!

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

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Learn to

RIDE A BIKE Sustrans in east Belfast offered adult cycling lessons for those who never leant as a child.

The programme also offered seniors and children the ability to learn how to cycle without support, as part of the Active Belfast Partnership. The first event took place at C.S. Lewis Square during July and August and participants were given route maps on the greenways to plan future trips after learning their new skill.

The Active Belfast project aims to promote healthy living and increase physical activity in and around Belfast. They offer advice on how to stay healthy and active, and encourage everyone to be a little more active everyday by walking, gardening, or cycling, and how it is important to stay safe while cycling.

To keep up to date for future activities, check out Sustrans online or enquire about the Balance for All project.

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East Belfast Life

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East Belfast : MOTORING

A REVOLUTION IN SPACE AND SOPHISTICATION DEREK BLACK CHECKS OUT SEAT’S FUN IN THE SUN CAR

SEAT seems to be on a roll just now. Their new Ateca SUV was launched to rave reviews. Now the new Ibiza hatchback is being hailed as the best of its class!

What have they done to their ‘fun in the sun’ hatchback to attract all this praise? There is a sound foundation - the Ibiza is the first car in the VW group to employ a brand-new platform which makes it roomier and offers an excellent blend of handling and ride comfort. The first thing you notice is the new styling. New crease lines along the sides somehow produce a more definite and more refined identity for the Barcelona built competitor in this best selling category.

That’s always a good start and the Ibiza looks set to attract many new buyers.

Which engine should you choose? The line-up majors on the VW group’s frugal three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol unique. It comes in three-outputs 75, 95 or 110PS. The 95 will be popular as it is turbo-charged and combines decent zest, good flexibility and economy (up to 60mpg combined). The turbo works wonders to give the Ibiza the feel of a larger car - it starts pulling from low revs and has the torque to handle the 6-speed gearbox without struggling.

Diesels and a livelier 1.5 TSI are to follow later in the year. So there will be a choice to suit everyone from the commuter to the high mileage traveller and those who like a serious touch of performance. Inside, the new Ibiza is impressively roomy for front and rear passengers compared to the competition and the boot is bigger than most in this class. Overall, it is a great example of how small cars have improved in recent years both in terms of space and in sophistication.

If you like alloy wheels, a colour touch screen and split folding rear seats, then the SE trim is the one to go for. Up from this is the FR trim that includes a more extrovert look, bigger 17-inch alloys, sports seats, cruise control, DAB radio and automatic wipers. The top Xcellence trim gets you all this plus luxury touches such as keyless entry, sat nav, part leather upholstery and dual zone climate control.

An accomplished hatchback with the VW feel, the Ibiza is a clever purchase. Prices starts from £13,120 for the 75PS 1.0-litre engine in starter trim. The higher trims offer a bit more power and equipment but still look like value. The FR model detailed below is a good example.

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East Belfast Life

at a glance...

SEAT Ibiza 1.0TSI 115 in FR trim ENGINE - turbo-charged, 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre unit producing 115PS

PERFORMANCE - Accelerates to 62mph in 9.3 seconds, 121mph top speed GEARBOX - 6-speed manual ECONOMY - 60mpg on Combined Cycle EMISSIONS - 108g/km carbon dioxide, 18% BIK PRICE - £16,630

East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Connswater Welcomes Plans for New Shop Plans were announced in August for home, leisure and garden retailer, The Range, to open a store in the Connswater Complex later this year. It is thought the new project will create 80 new jobs and has an investment of ÂŁ2 million, all in the hope it will attract new customers to the shopping centre.

The Range will offer departments such as; furniture, lighting, pets, furnishings, bathroom, garden, and seasonal items. The store opened in 1989 and currently has 144 shops in the UK and Ireland with their distribution expanding rapidly in recent years.

The new investment in The Range at Connswater follows a series of other openings in the retail park, including Starbucks, Lidl and Home Bargains opening later this year.

Largest Lidl in Northern Ireland Opens in East Belfast

The largest Lidl in Northern Ireland opened to customers in July within Connswater Shopping Centre, creating 17 new jobs. It took four months for the shop to open in the Connswater Complex with construction announced at the beginning of the year. The discount supermarket operates 38 stores and employs roughly 800 people in Northern Ireland. At first the plans to expand the budget store in Connswater were met with uncertainty by officials at Belfast City Council.

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East Belfast Life

HOMEWORK IS NOW A BREEZE! NO MORE FRUSTRATION AND TEARS. At age 7 my daughter Maddy was diagnosed with Dyslexia after an Educational Psychologist assessment.

She was also referred by her GP to an Occupational Therapist to help with tying her shoe laces, using a knife and fork etc. From P3 she had an IEP which was revised every term. She attended the school SENCO for one to one lessons and we also paid privately for Maddy to attend the N. Ireland Dyslexia Centre. "%%: 45*-- <%(&5&%ý $06-%/ĉ5 4*5 45*--ý 8"4 &"4*-: %*453"$5&% "/% )"% /0 $0/4&26&/$&4 0' )&3 "$5*0/4þ )& 8"4 7&3: %*403("/*4&%ý +645 3&"% 5)& 803%4 0/ 5)& 1"(& -*,& " -*45 "/% %*%/ĉ5 6/%&345"/% 5)& 4503:þ )& $06-%/ĉ5 3&5"*/ 41&--*/(4 "/% #"4*$"--: 8305& "4 -*55-& "4 4)& $06-% (&5 "8": 8*5)ÿ 7&3: &7&/*/( )0.&803, 8"4 " #"55-& "/% 806-% /&7&3 )"7& #&&/ $0.1-&5&% 0/-: '03 .:4&-' 03 )&3 "% 4*55*/( 8*5) )&3 5)306()065þ (".& 0' $"3%4 806-% 3&46-5 8*5) 5)& $"3%4 #&*/( 0/ 5)& =003ÿÿÿÿ 5 8"4 "-- " #*( 453"*/ 0/ 5)& '".*-: -*'&ý /05 +645 '03 64 #65 '03 "%%: 500þ & /05*$&% 4)& 8"4 #&$0.*/( .03& "/% .03& %*4*/5&3&45&% */ 4$)00-þ '5&3 :&"34 0' 4536((-& 50 )&-1 "%%: 50 3&"% "/% 3&5"*/ 41&--*/(4 &5$ 8& '06/% 64"/ "/% 5)& &"3/*/( 3&",5)306() 30(3"..&þ & 45"35&% 5)& ?@ .0/5) 130(3"..& %0*/( ?C .*/65&4 0' #"-"/$& "/% $0Ģ03%*/"5*0/ &9&3$*4&4 0/$& 1&3 %":þ '5&3 " '&8 .0/5)4 8& /05*$&% *.1307&.&/54 */ $0/$&/53"5*0/ý .&.03: 3&$"-- "/% .05*7"5*0/þ 4 8& $0/5*/6&%ý 8& /05*$&% *.1307&.&/54 */ "-- 5)& "3&"4 5)"5 )"% 13&7*064-: $"64&% 64 $0/$&3/ "/% #&45 0' "--ý 4)& 8"4 )"11*&3þ "%%: *4 /08 */ )*() 4$)00- "/% (05 501 ."3,4 '03 )&3 $-"44 */ #05) "5)4 "/% /(-*4)ÿ )& 8"4 $0..&/%&% #: )&3 5&"$)&3 '03 #&*/( 40 03("/*4&% "/% " 1-&"463& 50 5&"$) Ģ /05 " 3&1035 &91&$5&% '03 063 $)*-% 8*5) :4-&9*"ÿ & )"7& /0 %06#5 5)"5 5)*4 3&46-5 806-% /05 )"7& #&&/ 1044*#-& 8*5)065 5)& &"3/*/( 3&",5)306() 30(3"..&þ & 806-% /05 )"7& $0.1-&5&% 5)& 130(3"..& 8*5)065 64"/ĉ4 6/&/%*/( 4611035ý &/$063"(&.&/5 "/% (6*%"/$&þ & 3&"--: )"7& " -05 50 5)"/, 64"/ '03þ & 806-% 3&$0..&/% 5)& 130(3"..& 50 "/: 1"3&/5 8)0 *4 4536((-*/( 50 )&-1 5)&*3 $)*-% 5)306() 5)& #"55-&(306/% 0' 53:*/( 50 -&"3/ 8*5) :4-&9*"þ - Julie Maxwell

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Call for Local Artists to Mark First Anniversary of Innovation Factory Innovation Factory (IF) is inviting local Belfast artists to create two large, innovative artworks in its spacious premises to mark its first year of operation in Northern Ireland.

The entrepreneurial business hub, located on the Springfield Road, is calling for artists in Belfast to tender for the creation of two emotive pieces of art that will reflect the rich and evocative entrepreneurial history of West Belfast.

The total budget for both artworks is £5,000 and both individual artists and collaborations can tender for one or both artworks.

Judging the entries will be an expert panel led by leading designer and co-founder of fashion label Red or Dead and HemingwayDesign, Wayne Hemingway MBE. The judging panel also includes representatives from local community arts projects, BEAT Carnival and Fáilte Feirste Thiar as well as a team from the Innovation Factory team and Belfast City Council.

Shane Smith, the Innovation Factory’s Community Engagement Officer said: “We are thrilled to be able to give local artists the opportunity to create an eye-catching artwork

Fáilte Feirste Thiar's Harry Connolly, IF's Majella Barkley, BEAT Carnival's David Boyd and IF's Shane Smith

which will mark our first year in West Belfast.

It’s great that through this milestone we have the chance to engage with the local artistic community and we would like to thank Wayne, BEAT Carnival and Fáilte Feirste Thiar for bringing their critical eye to the judging panel.”

Leading designer Wayne Hemmingway commented: “We want artists to create artworks that reflect innovation and

enterprise within West Belfast, while fitting in with the unique and contemporary feel of the space in the Innovation Factory.”

The deadline for proposals is Friday 13th October 2017. If you are a budding or established artist and are interested in finding out more, contact Shane Smith on s.smith@innnovationfactoryni.com or call 028 9590 2500.

New Inspire Mental Health Scheme in East Belfast Ballymisert Heights, part of an Inspire Mental Health scheme, opened recently on the Holywood Road. Inspire Mental Health provides a range of support services to people

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East Belfast Life

experiencing mental health problems, from supported housing to advocacy services.

Ballymisert Heights offers supported housing, and aims to offer a relaxed and positive

environment where they cater to the individual.

The staff are qualified and have a wealth of experience with professional expertise to integrate their tenants into the community.

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East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Oasis Travel Checks in at

BALLYHACKAMORE

Oasis Travel has been making waves with the acquisition of Knock Travel, bringing together two of the most prominent and respected names on the Northern Ireland travel scene and creating a new super-agency for East Belfast.

Driven by passion and expertise, the new Oasis Travel at Ballyhackamore will offer its best ever combination of value, variety and travel inspiration, promising to be ‘first off the blocks’ with all that’s new and fresh in world travel.

The familiar faces who built the original business at ‘Ballyhack’, headed by Manager Pauline Suttle, with the support of Peter Johnston, Carly Stoneman and Nichola Moore, will remain, while former Knock Travel owner Doreen McKenzie, familiar to many as the Northern Ireland media’s favourite go-to voice of travel, will act as consultant to the expanded Oasis operation.

Oasis Travel owner Sandra Corkin sees the development as a move which will re-energise the wider Northern Ireland travel sector as well as providing East Belfast with an important resource, absolutely in tune with the local marketplace.

Sandra says, “Oasis Travel has always enjoyed a strong customer base in East Belfast and surrounding area and we are delighted to reinforce and build on that foundation with a physical presence in the area. Customers can expect to see new directions, new destinations and savvy new technology … plus the high level of courtesy and service which they have always enjoyed.”

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East Belfast Life

The new branch enhances a network which already includes Oasis Travel & Cruise Centres at Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood and Lisburn Road and Howard Street in Belfast, but Sandra is adamant that, when it comes to serving local communities, there is no such thing as ‘one size fits all’.

“We make very sure that we offer the same great service and great deals across all our branches”, she adds, “but we also tailor our offer to reflect the individuality of each location and reflect neighbourhood travel patterns. We know that East Belfast is a buoyant market spanning business to budget; family breaks to far-flung destinations … and it has a higher than usual proportion of people looking for high end luxe. That’s the sort of challenge we love to hear and we are looking forward to showcasing some incredible deals and destinations, all managed by a team who are at the top of their game.”

Taking its place in the vibrant and fast-growing business community of Ballyhackamore, the new Oasis Travel & Cruise Centre has been transformed with extensive re-branding, a luxury re-fit … and an East Belfast welcome!

Why not pop in or email us on knock@oasis-travel.co.uk or call on 02890 4571125.

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East Belfast : PEOPLE IN PROFILE

Anne Conde, of Brae Cafe, tells us...

“WHY I LOVE...

EAST BELFAST” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? I studied Home Economics and then Health Promotion at Liverpool Poly/John Moores University and went on to work in the field of Health Promotion in Liverpool and Northern Ireland. Throughout that time I always continued with my passion in food. It was only when I was planning to return to work after my youngest was born that I decided it was now or never to make the career change. So, I started doing some small scale private catering, enrolled on a Patisserie Diploma Course and got some real life experience in a real kitchen, at Neill’s Hill, thanks to Head Chef, Cath Gradwell. That was a daunting time, 40 something, first time in a real kitchen, wet behind the ears! I learnt so much and have so much to thank Cath and the rest of the team for. I then began working at Foodie Folk, making all the soups, sweet stuffs, pies and bakes for the cafe and Deli. It was when Mark from Foodie Folk announced that he was moving to new premises, that I jumped at the chance to take over the lease and open Brae. We are celebrating our first anniversary in October!

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL WORKING DAY? In to Brae at 7.30am, coffee machine on and start the prep for the day. Decide on the soups and specials, see what cakes and tray bakes need replenished and get cooking! Everything is made from

Anne likes Ballyhackamore for family tea.

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East Belfast Life

scratch, sourcing our meats from Hannan’s, our bacon and hams from Givans and fish from Ewings for our homemade chowder and fishcakes.

I have a great bunch of staff and we manage to have a laugh and work hard at the same time. During the day, orders are placed with suppliers, rotas made, and new menus planned for our regular bistro nights. Once closed, it’s clean down combined with homework with my 10 year old who comes over from school and trys to sneak a tray bake whilst doing his spellings!

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME? The best thing to do on a Saturday after the cafe shuts is to curl up on the sofa with the kids and watch a good film. I’m educating my 13 year old on 80’s movies and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has been our latest favourite! On Sundays, a walk at Seapark in Holywood or a walk into Ballyhack for a family tea. We take turns to choose the restaurant!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST? I love the fact that we are 5 minutes from the countryside, 8 minutes from the beach and the airport is on our doorstep. No need to travel into town to socialise as we are spoilt for choice with restaurants nearby.

We have amazing facilities for kids locally and don’t have far to travel to keep them happy, come rain or shine. The local park is just a hop

East Belfast : PEOPLE IN PROFILE

Anne likes taking walks at Seapark in Holywood.

across the stream from our garden and my kids can play all day with their friends and not stuck infront of the X Box. My little boy coming home covered in mud actually makes me smile, well some of the time!!! We also have fantastic schools locally.

Anne’s family eat at Graze for a family treat.

HOW DOES LIVING IN EAST BELFAST COMPARE TO OTHER PLACES YOUR HAVE LIVED? Originally from the Tyrone countryside, I just love that everything is on your doorstep in east Belfast. Having lived in Liverpool for 13 years, I thought I’d miss the variety and accessibility to things when living on the mainland, but east Belfast has grown and developed so much in the last 10 to 15 years, it can now rival other areas. Our visiting friends from England are always blown away by East Belfast and what it has to offer.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? Gilnahirk Park! Not the most exotic part of east belfast, but for our family, it is the gateway to fun! My daughter can meet up with her friends and we can’t keep our son out of the park, playing football and having great adventures, making sure he doesn’t get caught by the mad scary clown or the invisible motorbike riders in the sewers??? As for the older members of the family, a night out, visiting friends means dawning your wellies, precariously making your way over the stream and celebrating you’ve made it, dry, with a glass of wine at your host’s house! Getting back home at the end of the night isn’t always such plain sailing!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN EAST BELFAST AND WHY? I can’t choose one I’m afraid! Depends on the mood and the occasion. Neill’s Hill, obviously, and we all have our favourites on the menu. My daughter Beth doesn’t bother with the menu, it’s straight to the hot wings and frites! If James has his choice, it’s Il Parata for a big bowl of prawn pasta. And special occasions always call for a lovely meal at Graze. Spoilt for choice.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE EAST BELFAST IN THREE WORDS? Vibrant, diverse, community.

Facebook: Graze

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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.

Belfast Monster Mash and Firework Display Belfast’s biggest and best Halloween event and fireworks display is promising guests plenty of weird and wonderful action on Sunday 29 October at The Slipways, Titanic Belfast with a cast of thousands!

The entertainment will feature a street theatre, jugglers, arts, craft workshops, fairground rides, live music and an array of food.

It’s the largest fireworks display in the city, so don’t miss it!

For more information, visit: www.visitbelfast.com.

Monster Manor What?

Monster Manor is back and even spookier than last year!

You will find singing pumpkins, dancing skeletons, floating ghosts, witches, monsters and much more to entertain the whole family for this special Halloween trick or treat.

When?

Daily from 28th October - 5th November & weekends from 30th September.

Where?

W5 Odyssey Arena.

Skills Northern Ireland 2017 What?

Interactive and inspiring, this two day event is aimed at 14-19 year olds and the teachers, parents and influencers that help them decide how to achieve the career of their dreams. There will be over 80 organisations from top employers, training providers, colleges, universities, and career sector companies who want to talk to you about the opportunities they have to offer.This is a free event.

When?

18-19th October.

Where?

Titanic Exhibition Centre.

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East Belfast Life

East Belfast : SOCIAL

C.S. LEWIS FESTIVAL

The Northern Irish Connections Friendship Four Ice Hockey Tournament is returning to Belfast with four new colleges from the US competing at the SSE Arena for the Belpot Trophy.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Clarkson University, Providence College and the University of Maine will travel to Belfast on 24 and 25 November for the tournament.

During the 2016 tournament, 22,000 fans attended the four ice hockey games over the Amercian Thanksgiving weekend with 70 television networks showing the games across USA, Canada, United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, making the tournament one of Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most televised sporting events ever.

For more information, visit www.friendshipfour.com.

The CS Lewis Festival celebrates the legacy of Lewis through themes of storytelling, imagination and spirituality with events including talks, lectures and tours, exhibitions, workshops, theatre, poetry and spoken word events and film screenings. This year, expect to see some firm favourites, new ideas and some quirky events, across five days of the festival.

When?

18-22nd November

Northern Irish Connections Friendship Four Ice Hockey Tournament

Where?

Various locations around east Belfast.

East Belfast Life

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E A S T B E L FA S T

NEWS

ROUND

BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW RETURNS TO BELFAST

UP!

MasterChef’s John Torode will be among the top chefs and experts bringing recipes to life, live on stage at the BBC Good Food Show in Belfast Waterfront from 10-12 November 2017. This year the show will return with more great food, a great range of some of Northern Ireland’s very best producers of food, drink and artisan products and a new spacious layout. With a line-up of top celebrity chefs and culinary experts, the weekend will be full to the brim with demonstrations, tastings, chef interviews, book signings and more. John will join Michelin-star chef Michel Roux, Nadiya Hussain, The Big Family Cooking Showdown presenter and The Hairy Bikers and for a unique Big Kitchen theatre experience which will bring guests closer to the celebrity and expert chefs who will be cooking up a storm and uncovering top tips for warming autumnal foods. To find out more or to book, visit bbcgoodfoodshow.com/belfast-waterfront or call 0844 581 1356.

Pablo Takes Off A ground-breaking new children’s TV series for the first time featuring a child with autism in the starring role premiered on RTÉjr and CBeebies on Monday 2nd of October. Pablo, a 52-episode live action and 2D animation series, was created and produced by pioneering Belfast production company, Paper Owl Films. It tells the story of a five-yearold boy on the autism spectrum who uses his creativity – and magic crayons – to invent an imaginary art world filled with animal characters, which help him make sense of social situations and process confusing or anxious thoughts and feelings. Made with funding support from Northern Ireland Screen and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI), with animation services provided by Kavaleer Productions in Dublin, Pablo was filmed in Northern Ireland. Pictured is the voice of Pablo, Jake Williamson, 11, at the official series launch. Pablo is the first TV programme with an all-autistic core cast, with every episode grounded in the real-life experiences of autistic children. Each episode is devised, co-written and voiced by young autistic talent.

SUPERMAN PREQUEL FILMING IN NEW BELFAST HARBOUR STUDIOS A major television series about Superman is the first production filmed in the new Belfast Harbour studios. Krypton, which will star British actor Cameron Cuffe and Northern Irish actor Ian McElhinney, began filming in the recently completed studios in late summer. The Belfast Harbour studios complex, which was built on an eight-acre site on the north foreshore of Belfast Lough, includes two film studios, workshops and production offices.

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East Belfast Life

NEW HOTEL IN EAST BELFAST The £28m Titanic Hotel, which is located at the site of the former Harland & Wolff drawing offices and headquarters, has opened its doors to the public after a two-year restoration. The Hotel, which highlights the history behind Queen’s Island and the shipbuilding industry in Northern Ireland, features 119 rooms. Heritage spaces retained in the development include the telephone exchange, the board room, directors’ entrance and lobby and former directors’ offices. One of the original drawing offices houses the hotel’s bar and lounge, whist the other has become the hotel’s ball room and heritage experience. The Titanic Hotel will operate daily tours to showcase the heritage features throughout the hotel.

LIDL TO TRIAL AUTISM FRIENDLY SHOPPING EVENINGS Lidl Northern Ireland, in partnership with the National Autistic Society Northern Ireland, has announced that it will be trialling autism friendly quiet evenings in its Newry Damolly and Newtownards stores. Every Tuesday in October between 6pm and 8pm there will be dimmed lighting, no in-store announcements or music, priority queueing for people and families dealing with autism as well as extra assistance upon request. An in-store map will also be available for children with autism to plan and organise their shopping trips which will add structure and routine to help them deal with otherwise chaotic experiences.

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