Ulster Tatler July 2024 by Ulster Tatler

NORTHERN IRELAND’S NO1 GLOSSY

JULY 2024

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BIOHACKING HEALTH: LEADING EDGE INNOVATIONS FOR A RADIANT AND HEALTHIER YOU

By Sian Keane, Device Expert and Manager for Aesthetics and Medical Divisions, BTL N.Ireland

In today’s fast-paced world, consumers demand more from their wellness routines. Pursuing a healthier, more radiant self is no longer confined to traditional methods; it’s an evolving landscape of cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. At BTL, we are at the forefront of this revolution, biohacking the body to help you achieve your best self naturally and safely. MEETING NEW CONSUMER DEMANDS As a global company with over 30 years of technical excellence, BTL Medical understands the changing demands of modern consumers. Today’s wellness seekers seek holistic solutions that address their aesthetic needs and improve their overall health, vitality, and function. Our commitment to innovation and safety ensures that we provide top-of-the-line solutions that meet the highest standards. “We pride ourselves

on delivering safe and effective treatments that enhance cellular health, muscle tone, skin quality, connective tissue, and more, making us the leader in the industry,” says Sian Keane. LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGIES Our leading-edge innovations are designed to address various health and aesthetic concerns, offering non-invasive solutions that deliver remarkable results. Our top-line aesthetic devices

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANTAGES OF EXION: AI Pulse Control: Our proprietary AI technology optimises energy delivery, ensuring maximum efficacy with minimal discomfort. Extended Mode: Delivers RF energy beyond the needle tips, allowing deeper tissue penetration without the associated pain. Dual Energy Delivery: It combines monopolar RF and targeted ultrasound, making it the only device to provide a synergistic effect that enhances the body’s natural production of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), resulting in a staggering 224% increase in HA. Key results include: 85% improvement in skin laxity 22% reduction in localised fat deposits 224% increase in natural hyaluronic acid production EMFACE: THE NATURAL FACELIFT Emface targets the elevator muscles in the face, providing a natural facelift by improving your face’s structural layers, connective tissue, and skin quality. This innovative device emits synchronised RF and HIFES™ energies to reduce wrinkles and fine lines effectively, contour the face, and enhance muscle tone. The addition of the submentum applicator addresses the notorious “tech neck” and “turkey neck” problems, tightening muscle and target fat in the submental area. “Traditional fat-dissolving methods often leave skin laxity, but Emface targets skin, fat and muscle simultaneously, ensuring a more ‘snatched’ natural enhancement of the lower face,” explains Sian Keane. It’s only a 20-minute noninvasive lunchtime treatment!

Key results include: 37% reduction in wrinkles 30% increase in muscle tone 23% more lift in the treated areas

are the Emsculpt NEO, Exion, Emface, and Emsella, each catering to different aesthetics, health, and wellness aspects. EXION: REVOLUTIONISING MICRONEEDLING RF The Exion device is a breakthrough in microneedling RF technology, utilising monopolar radiofrequency with AI pulse control to achieve greater depth with less pain and more gain. This versatile solution treats skin

and localised fat and laxity concerns, making it ideal for enhancing skin firmness and reducing stubborn fat pockets. The Exion platform’s dual-energy delivery system combines monopolar RF and targeted ultrasound to boost hyaluronic acid production. “This results in improved skin laxity, firmness, and overall appearance while reducing discomfort compared to any technology of its kind,” notes Sian Keane.

EMSCULPT NEO: REDEFINING BODY CONTOURING Emsculpt NEO is a game-changer in body contouring. It combines two powerful technologies: radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy. This unique combination reduces fat and builds muscle, offering a two-pronged approach to body sculpting. The RF component heats and painlessly destroys fat cells, while the HIFEM energy induces intense muscle contractions, increasing muscle mass and tone. Emsculpt NEO is particularly effective for areas like the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and thighs, delivering noticeable results! A 30-minute treatment

Key results include: 30% reduction in subcutaneous fat 25% increase in muscle volume EMSELLA: A BREAKTHROUGH IN PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH Emsella is a revolutionary treatment for pelvic floor health, offering a non-invasive solution for incontinence and intimate wellness. Using high-intensity electromagnetic technology, Emsella stimulates the entire pelvic floor area, providing the equivalent of thousands of Kegel exercises in a single session. This not only strengthens the pelvic floor muscles but also improves bladder control and enhances sexual wellness, significantly boosting the quality of life for our patients. A 28-minute noninvasive treatment

Key results include: 75% reduction in pad usage for incontinence 51% Overall improvement in Sexual Dysfunction 62% Improvement in Orgasms

THE FUTURE OF AESTHETICS WITH BTL “The future of aesthetics lies in integrating advanced technologies that not only address superficial concerns but also enhance deeper tissues and overall wellness,” says Sian Keane. “At BTL, we constantly innovate to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our focus is on non-invasive treatments that stimulate natural processes within the body, setting new standards in the industry.” “By leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI pulse control and dual-energy delivery, we can achieve remarkable results with minimal discomfort. The future is about providing treatments that are not only effective but also align with the body’s natural healing and regenerative capabilities,” adds Keane. “This synergistic approach ensures that our clients can achieve their aesthetic goals while enhancing their overall health and well-being.” CONFIDENCE WITH BTL “Our devices are placed with confidence in clinics globally and now throughout Northern Ireland, trusted by practitioners and beloved by their clients,” says Sian Keane. We encourage you to scan the QR code to find your local clinic and embrace the power of BTL. Our mission is to provide safe, effective innovations that allow you to be your best self. The results speak for themselves—our clients love seeing the transformation, from a snatched jawline to improved muscle tone and enhanced body contours. “We, too, are obsessed with our clients’ results,” says Sian Keane.

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The content of this document is intended for informational purposes only. Not all products and indications are licenced in may vary. ©2023 BTL Group of Companies. your country, for more information contact All rights reserved. BTL®, EMFACE®, EMSCULPT your local representative. Results and patient NEO®, EMSCULPT®, EMSELLA® and EXILIS® other countries. The products, the methods experience of manufacture, or the use may be subject are registered trademarks in the United States of America, the European Union, to one or more U.S. or foreign patents or EMSELLA, EMTONE, EMFEMME 360, EMFACE, or pending applications, see www.btlnet.com/patents. and EMBODY are associated with the EM™ Trademarks EMSCULPT, EMSCULPT NEO, family of products and services.

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Features

July 2024

CONTENTS

93 42

142

COLUMNIST – KATHY CLUGSTON Don't Forget About The Arts

ROYALLY REWARDED

MY TOP TEN Karen Connolly

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Rose Neill

MY TOP TEN Colleen McAreavey

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

UT INFLUENTIAL WOMEN AWARDS

123

SPRING INTO SUMMER

137

FOCUS ON: DINING DELIGHTS

144

MY TOP TEN Jessica Thompson

148

FOCUS ON: BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

163

FOCUS ON: MAKE A SPLASH

178

ARTS DIARY

182

BOOK EXTRACT: NICE WEATHER FOR A KILLING

183

FOCUS ON: DROMORE

192

LOOKING BACK July 2004

UT Style

This month's cover features Sian Keane, the Device Expert and Manager for Aesthetics and Medical Divisions, BTL N. Ireland.

STYLE WATCH

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

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EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry

Taylor Town

DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry

t is hard to ignore the economic impact of Taylor Swift’s visit to Dublin for three concerts. Apparently, there is even a term for it: Swiftonomics. It’s unprecedented that a pop concert would generate such publicity and economic activity. My only gripe is that it becomes all about the numbers, spectacle and ﬁnancial impact and the actual music is a bit of an afterthought. I was at her last Dublin concert with my daughters in June 2018 and, although I am not a massive fan, I thought it was great. This year, along with Coldplay in Croke Park, Swift’s concerts seem to be the go-to events of summer 2024. Her most recent album has had a mediocre reception by critics but this doesn’t seem to have dented her seemingly unstoppable rise. Sometimes you must remind yourself (and quite a few others) that she is just a pop singer. Having said all that, her music means a lot to a lot of people and certainly, the word on the street is that her Dublin performance was awesome.

DIGITAL MARKETING & SALES MANAGER: Julie Patterson DEPUTY SALES MANAGER: Lorraine Gill COPY CONTROLLER: Gemma Johnston EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Katie Robinson PRODUCTION MANAGER: Richard Sherry PHOTOGRAPHER: Ian Campbell PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Tatler Type

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COLUMN July 2024

LIFE & TIMES EDITED BY KATHY CLUGSTON

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

Don’t Forget About The Arts This month, Kathy looks at the lack of funding being put into the arts in Northern Ireland and why we can’t let it be left behind. I attend a fair few arts events, sometimes as part of my job but more often because it’s what I love to do. Northern Ireland is teeming with creative and administrative talent; at any given time there’ll be a festival happening somewhere, although how long this can be sustained is a matter of growing concern. As the lead singer of Snow Patrol, Gary Lightbody, recently put it: “We’re very short-sighted as a country, as a community, as a people, as a place if we don’t at least respect the arts to the value that it’s being respected in other places.” According to Equity, Arts Council Northern Ireland’s funding has fallen by more than 40% over the past 10 years. The arts here receive far less investment per capita than any of the other UK nations; the Irish government invests four times as much per head of population. And here’s another startling statistic: 360,000 people attended Northern Ireland football matches in the year 2022-23; in the same year 6 million tickets were sold for arts events. It was recently announced that £36 million is to be invested in football grounds in NI; last year the arts received £9.7 million. I’m not saying football isn’t important or culturally significant but what the arts can offer in terms of social inclusion, well-being, global reputation and knock-on economic benefits for our towns and cities needs to be given its due. If ever an event epitomised the power of the arts to move and unite us, a recording of the long-running RTE radio programme Sunday Miscellany at the Belfast Book Festival last month was it. The theme on this occasion was “Ways of Seeing”, inspired by the groundbreaking 1972 BBC documentary series by John Berger. Producer Sarah Binchy had invited a top notch line-up of local writers, poets and musicians to explore that theme in any way they chose.

Jan Carson opened proceedings with an essay about watching tourists at the Van Gogh museum viewing the artworks through their screens, clicking and swiping, never lifting their heads to actually look. Her friend began photographing the people photographing the art and to Jan’s delight they were escorted out for “not looking at the paintings in an appropriate manner”. Glenn Patterson revealed that there was no way he’d have been able to watch John Berger’s Ways of Seeing when it first went out because it clashed with Match of the Day, a non-negotiable in the Patterson household. Lucy Caldwell wrote about her experience of being in hospital as a child with eyesight problems – giving us, as she so often does in her fiction, a hint of a world just beyond the knowable but no less real. Warfare is ever present in our world and keenly felt at this moment. Many of the speakers who dived into memory couldn’t help but reference our own tragic history, in a way that made me sharply aware of the privilege of sitting safe and warm with people from different areas, cities, countries and backgrounds sharing stories of triumph and tragedy. There we were, together, held in a spell by people who know how to craft simple words and plain musical notes into something extraordinary. Of course we must

Illustration by Megan Rafferty.

prioritise healthcare and education and infrastructure, but without these people, without these experiences, where’s the magic? Where’s the joy? If the gentle harmonies of the band Trù had us on the verge of tears as they sang Wild Mountain Thyme, the final essay by the broadcaster John Toal tipped us over the edge. He told us how a friend had written a poem for his wedding day, how it hangs on his bedroom wall unseen by all except John and his wife, the ink fading now after decades but not the love. I left the Crescent Arts Centre that afternoon moved and inspired and buoyed, as I do every time I experience creativity in whatever form. That’s what the arts can do for everyone, and so much more.

THIS MONTH’S (BOOKISH) OBSESSIONS CARAVAGGIO IN BELFAST – Two of Caravaggio’s masterpieces ‘The Supper at Emmaus’ (1601) & ‘The Taking of Christ’ (1602) are on display at the Ulster Museum in Belfast until the 1st of September. Admission is, wonderfully, free so you can visit as many times as you like.

SILVERBACK – The new novel by the Belfast writer and filmmaker Phil Harrison. James Fechner is a doctor who, during jury duty, becomes fascinated by a man who’s on trial for attempted murder. Increasingly dissatisfied with his own life, Fechner starts to inveigle himself into the other man’s violent world.

THE YEAR THAT ROCKED IRISH DANCING – A 3-part BBC NI documentary about the cheating scandal that engulfed the world of Irish dancing just as director Gillian Callan had finished filming and was about to air her programmes. Available on BBC iPlayer. 12

Committee Members: Terry Harrison, Brenda Henderson, Pat Coulter, Eileen Sherarrd, Mark Orr and Adrian Brown.

Pamela McIlhinney, Trish Gorman, Clair Metclafe, Hilary Sterling and Helen Beattie.

Barbara Page, Pamela McIlhinney, Joyce Adams and Trish Gorman.

. Hilary Stirling and Lorraine Lynn.

Peter Howie and George Blackwood.

Philip Ross, Peter Martin and Stephen McConnell.

Hilary Stirling, Adrian Brown and Hilary Abbott.

Noel Ardis and Julia Heyling.

BRA 50-YEAR REUNION On Friday 21st June, BRA Class of 1974 celebrated a remarkable 50-year reunion. The alumni gathered for a delightful lunch event, reminiscing and reconnecting with old school friends. Familiar faces ﬁlled the room, sparking fond memories and lively conversations. The atmosphere was ﬁlled with nostaligia and joy, making it a truly unforgettable experience for everyone present.

Pat Coulter, Helen Beattie, Shirley Wherry, Mandy McDonald, Julia Heyling and Eileen Sherrard. 14

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Initial consultations by appointment only.

UU ﬁnal year fashion and textile designers Katie Wilson, Holly Moore and Mariah McNally.

Nadia Sayers, Connor Kerr, Becky Bellamy and Beth Dillon.

Maria McKenna, Scott Wilson and Antonia McKenna.

Nicole McKendry and designer Fintan Mulholland.

Adelola Benson and Luke Dunlop.

Elizabeth Murphy and fashion show designer Emily McMurtry.

Andrea McCarthy, Aoibhinn McCarthy, Alan McColgan and UU School of Art ambassador Niamh McCarthy.

Clare Duffy and designer Robert McGillicuddy.

UU FASHION AND TEXTILES SHOW On Thursday 30th May, Ulster University’s ﬁnal year BA (Hons) Textile Art, Design and Fashion graduate students presented their stunning creations in their Graduate Show at Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art, Belfast Campus. The show, comprised of 40 graduates showcasing their work on the catwalk, marked a key milestone in the celebrations of the 175th anniversary year of the Belfast School of Art.

Danielle Neville, Elizabeth McGillicuddy and Leah Corbett. 16

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Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, welcomed more than 400 guests.

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BLUE LIGHTS CAST HEADLINE NI CHAMBER’S ANNUAL LUNCH More than 400 businesspeople gathered in Belfast City Hall for NI Chamber’s 2024 Annual Lunch. The sold-out event was hosted by NI Chamber’s new president, Caitriona McCusker, regional market leader, PwC NI. This year’s lunch included a special focus on creative industries, including a panel session with the cast and crew of Blue Lights featuring writer Declan Lawn and lead actress Sian Brooke. NI Chamber’s 2024 Annual Lunch was delivered with the support of sponsors BT, Cleaver Fulton Rankin, Cushon and GMcG, well as drinks reception sponsor, Dell Technologies.

Candice Randles and Ruth McGuinness (Kainos).

Jeremy Hinds, Dwayne Nixon and Keith Liggett (Legacy Wealth Management).

NI Chamber President, Caitriona McCusker.

Caitriona McCusker (NI Chamber President), Stuart Sproule (Cleaver Fulton Rakin), Suzanne Wylie (NI Chamber); Paul Murnaghan (BT); Susan Dunlop (GMcG); George Maybury (Dell Technologies); Siân Brooke (Blue Lights) and Andrew Sutcliffe (Ulster Bank Cushon).

Cathy Gormley-Heenan (Ulster University), NI Chamber President Caitriona McCusker, U.S. Consul General James Applegate and Suzanne Wylie (NI Chamber).

Declan Lawn and the cast of Blue Lights were interviewed by host Claire McCollum.

Brian Law and Barbara Greer-Sayer (FP McCann), Jenda McSwiggan, Kelly-Anne Small and Richard Williams (Ulster Bank Cushon). 18

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Show host Lady Portia Diamanté with NI Opera stars Mary McCabe and Jenny Bourke.

Peter Oliver, Arlene McCloskey, Deirdre Robb, Andrew Jones, Brian Haslett and Mark Irvine.

High Points Youth Ballet teachers and choreographer Anna Carapellotti, Jake Allison, Argyro Tsampazi and Rona O’Brien.

Chris Pollock and Julie Lyttle.

Matthias Oostrick, photo festival director Michael Weir and Toby Smith.

Photographer Frankie Quinn and daughter Saorlaith Ni Dhubhthaigh-Choinn.

Trisha Mcnally, Clare McComish and Shauna McGowan.

Deirdre Robb and Andrew Jones.

BELFAST EXPOSED 40TH ANNIVERSARY On Thursday June 6th, Belfast Exposed celebrated its 40th anniversary gala dinner at Belfast City Hall. This renowned photography exhibition, dedicated to capturing and showcasing the evolving social and political landscape of Belfast, brought together artists and enthusiasts for an evening of reﬂection and celebration. This event highlighted four decades of impactful visual storytelling.

High Points Youth Ballet at the Belfast Exposed gala dinner. 20

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90 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Ballyclare Secondary musicians.

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS On Saturday 1st June, Ballyclare Secondary School celebrated their 60th anniversary with a special Anniversary Dinner, which took place at Dunadry Hotel and Gardens. With the evening hosted by Pamela Ballantine, guests enjoyed musical performances by talented staff and students, a wonderful dinner, drinks and a rafﬂe and auction.

Board of Governors: Trevor Kirkland, Janet Crawford, Acting Principal Wendy Singleton, Zoe Lutton and Jonny Campbell-Smyth.

Lisa Nevin, Heather Flint, Liz Agnew and Frances Campbell.

Lavinia and Leon Cowan, Sam Hagan and Charlie Dundee.

Alan Graham, Acting Principal Wendy Singleton and event host Pamela Ballantine.

Katy McNeill, Mervyn Higginson and Claire Higginson-McNeill.

Heather Flint, Celine Gillan, Zoe Lutton, Louise Agnew and Angela Hatch from the organising committee. 22

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Lauren Robinson, Sara Thompson and Emilia Whiteside.

Alison Brown and Lee Austin.

Gemma Johnston, Joanne Harkness and Elizabeth Sands.

Stephen Whalley.

Ciaran and Nikki McConnell, Chris Sherry, Graeme Kelly.

Chris Sherry and Godfrey Nellins.

Lisa McFarland and daughter Lara.

Andrew Holywood from United Wines.

Arthur Dodds and Elaine Gilmer.

Graeme Kelly, Katie Clarke, Caroline and Jonathan Kennedy.

ULSTER TATLER SUMMER DRINKS The Whalley Gallery in Belfast buzzed with excitement on Thursday, 20th June 2024 as it hosted the Ulster Tatler summer drinks event in partnership with United Wines, Whalley Gallery and Four Star Pizza. Guests enjoyed a delightful evening with refreshing drinks, delicious pizza and live music from the talented Michael Rafferty.The lively atmosphere made the night a resounding success, bringing together art enthusiasts, food lovers and music fans and capturing the essence of a perfect summer evening.

Alastair Gilmore, Evelyn Mehaffey, Luke Mehaffy and Graeme Kelly.

Jayne McFaul, Ciarán Fox, Karen Latimer and Sharon Hare. 24

Shauna Stewart and Emma Miller. Continued on page 26

W NE

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Joanne Harkness, Richard Sherry and Colleen McStravick.

Emma Miller and Adrian Bailie.

Michael Rafferty and Ciaran McConnell.

Patrick and Bronagh Moffett.

Mandy Lyttle, John and Julie Herron and Richard Sherry.

Jacqueline Hamilton, Pamela Ballantine, Rosemary Rainey and Alison Brown. Continued from page 24

Joanne Harkness and Chris Morrow.

Joanne Sargent, Chris Sherry, Sharon Hare and John Leckey.

Nuala Meenehan and Tony Axon.

Claire Shivers and Penny Smyth.

Emilia Whiteside, Jaynie Lynch, Sara Thompson and Lauren Robinson. 26

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Councillor Alison Bennington; Mayor of Newtownabbey and Antrim, Mark Cooper BEM; Dana; and Danny Haggan.

Shirley Brown and Marian Mateer.

BIG BAND FOR A BIG CAUSE

On Friday 31st May, Dana joined the PM Big Band at Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey, for an unforgettable evening of music in support of Marie Curie Hospice Northern Ireland. Featuring vocalists Ceara Grehan and David Hamilton, the one-off performance took guests on a thrilling journey through the golden age of swing, including tunes by Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller, Amy Winehouse and more.

Deirdre Lewis and Valerie Burnett.

Heather Bell and Gina Haggan.

Yvonne and Clive Thomspon with Caroline Taylor.

Lorcan McGuigan, Mayor of Newtownabbey and Antrim; Mark Cooper BEM; Dana, Danny Haggan, Jean Haggan and Katie Haggan.

John Lynas, Councillor Billy Webb MBE JP, Pat Webb, Barbara Majury and Ann Gamble.

Brian and Brenda Thompson, Stewart and Joan Magee.

Nuala McLorinan, Dana, Jimmy Dixon, Mary Jo Grehan. 28

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Paul Moneypenny, Terry Bradley and Taylor-Rae Falconer.

Jeff Flannigan, Ashley Bradley, Collette O’Neill and John Minnis.

Carolyn Stewart and Lynda Bryans.

Allan Cousins and Corrine Whiteley.

Denis Moloney and Terry Bradley.

Michael Brimacombe with son Bradley and Erin McKinley.

Leesa Hamilton, Kate Grant and Deirdre Grant.

Titanic CEO Judith Owens and Terry Bradley.

DOCKERS & DOLLS Titanic Belfast has announced the return of a free summer exhibition in partnership with Terry Bradley Art following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event. Dockers & Dolls — The Art of Terry Bradley runs daily from Monday 1st July until Saturday 31st August from 9am – 7pm in The Andrews Gallery. The new exhibition will showcase Bradley’s long tradition of painting the dockers — representing fair, strong Belfast workers who have dealt with a lot in life — while also incorporating some of the rich maritime history of the city, his iconic colourful female pieces and his work relating to mental health awareness. winners for the 2024 Bradley Art Prize, sponsored by Telecoms and IT solutions provider Radius Connect, were also announced at the event.

James Devlin, Head of Enterprise Sales at Radius Connect, which sponsored the Bradley Art Prize competition; Holly Hooks, winner in the 19–23 category and overall winner; artist Terry Bradley; Bradley Brimacombe, winner in the over-23 category; Erin McDaid, winner in the 14–18 category. 30

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HONOURS

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

MARGARET STERLING BEM

TERENCE DONNELLY OBE

Mrs Margaret Pearl Sterling BEM, Teaching Associate in the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences in Queen’s University Belfast, recently received a British Empire Award as part of the King’s New Year’s honour list, for services to higher education in Northern Ireland. Here she is pictured at Hillsborough Castle with the Lord Lieutenant for the County Borough of of Belfast, Dame Fionnuala JayO’Boyle. Photograph courtesy of Aaron McCracken.

Terence Donnelly, Executive Chairman of Donnelly Group and TBC Conversions received an OBE for services to the motor industry, which was awarded to him by Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal. Terence is believed to be the only individual in Northern Ireland to have been honoured for services to the motor industry. He joined the family-owned business in 1969 and has led Donnelly Group to become Northern Ireland’s largest independently owned vehicle retailer, with nine branches across the province offering vehicles from 18 manufacturers. He is pictured on the day of his investiture with his wife, Roisin, and daughters, Emma and Claire.

FLORENCE WALKER BEM

JOY COALTER BEM

Mrs Florence Walker BEM is pictured receiving her British Empire Medal award for services to Early Years Education in County Antrim from Lord Lieutenant of Co.Tyrone, Mr Robert Scott OBE, at Hillsborough Castle. Photograph courtesy of Aaron McCracken.

Mrs Joy Coalter BEM is pictured receiving her British Empire Medal award for services to Education at Hillsborough Castle. Included in the photo is her husband, Dennis (Robert) Coalter, HM Lord Lieutenant for Co. Fermanagh Viscount Brookeborough and daughter Lindsey Coalter. Photograph courtesy of Aaron McCracken. 32

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The Canticle Sacred Music Society concert in Fitzroy Presbyterian Church.

Canticle choir choralists Kelly McCartan, Aoife Morgan, Kimberly Woo Ling and Patricia Moitie.

Shannon Campbell, Anna Murray and Kerry Campbell.

Shannon Campbell, Rev Steve Stockman (Fitzroy Presbyterian Church), Fr Dominic McGrattan and Janice Stockman.

Lynn Bradﬁeld and Anita Gracey.

Miles McConnell, Eamonn Russell and Joe McEvoy.

QUB CANTICLE SUMMER CONCERT On Sunday 2nd June, Queen’s University Belfast Chaplaincy Canticle Summer Concert was held at Fitzroy Presbyterian Church. The Canticle Sacred Music Choir was joined by the director of sacred music, celebrated soprano Eilís Fox; classical guitarist Miles McConnell; the student quartet and Irish traditional ensemble. After the concert, refreshments were served courtesy of the Mosaic Café.

The Canticle Sacred Music Society musicians.

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The team at Dunmurry Dental Practice.

Ciara, Joanne, Debbie, Cathy and Denise.

Connie, Amelia, Denise, Danielle, Amy, Natasha, Leighanne, Caroline, Louise and Teresa.

Philip with Simon from DMI.

Nicola, Philip, Karen, Ross, Olivia and Gemma.

Dunmurry Dental Practice.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SMILES Dunmurry Dental Practice was originally set up 20 years ago by principal dentist and owner, Philip McLorinan, with managerial support from his wife, Debbie McLorinan. The practice has grown from strength to strength to what is now a multi-awardwinning, six-surgery general practice delivering dental care to patients. After two decades navigating the business of dentistry they would like to thank the hard work of their dedicated staff members, dependable suppliers and, of course, their loyal patients who have entrusted the practice with their smiles. They recently took time out to celebrate with staff and patients.

Philip and Debbie McLorinan. 36

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My galvanizing experience for my colleagues and I. I’m proud of what we have achieved so far and am excited about the future of the business on the Lisburn Road. 3. What are your favourite hobbies/activities outside of work? I have a 3-year-old daughter, so most of my spare time outside of work is either spent in a playpark or watching Peppa Pig! My partner and I are big fans of music and so when the opportunity for childfree time does arise, we love to go to gigs or festivals together. We recently went to Bruce Springsteen at Boucher Playing Fields which was an amazing show, and I’m looking forward to seeing the Pixies and PJ Harvey later this summer.

Karen Connolly Partner, Francis Hanna & Co Solicitors 1. What do you love most about your job? As a family lawyer, I love that my job is primarily about people and their relationships with one another. I’m invited into the lives of my clients who often share with me very personal and private stories about what has happened to cause whatever breakdown has occurred in their lives, be it a relationship breakdown or an issue concerning their children. Being a confidante and advisor is not a role I take lightly and there is a great responsibility that comes with advising and assisting anyone who is going through a separation, especially when there are children involved or where the relationship has been an abusive one. That being said, I always find it incredibly rewarding to be able to help someone navigate this difficult time in their lives, to offer advice and support throughout what can be quite a stressful and emotional process and ultimately watch them come out the other side of it and to know that I have been a part of their journey. 2. What has been your career highlight to date? I think that opening our new boutique office on the Lisburn Road in Belfast recently has been a real career highlight for me. My firm, Francis Hanna & Co, has been in business for nearly a century, operating from Belfast city centre premises. Since becoming a partner several years ago, it has been an ambition of mine to bring our services into the local community and to really grow and develop roots and connections there. It has been a whirlwind journey in getting the new office up and running, but the whole experience has been so enjoyable and motivating for me. The business has received such a warm welcome from the Lisburn Road community and the whole process has been a really

4. What is your daily routine? Family law is a particularly fast-paced area of law and so, though I may have an idea at the start of the day as to what I plan to achieve work-wise, very often an emergency matter can arrive on my desk that will have to be prioritized and that can throw the plan off. It keeps everything interesting! Generally, I will field emails first thing in the morning before attending any court hearings that I have on that day. I try to reserve the afternoons for consulting with clients and barristers, returning telephone calls and drafting court applications and correspondence. I’m regularly asked to give talks and presentations for organisations such as Women’s Aid and I really enjoy this part of my work, so I’ll always find time to fit this in. After work, I’ll have dinner and a couple of hours of family time, which always creates a nice bit of balance. 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? Being mum to a toddler generally keeps me quite active, though on top of that I like to cycle and regularly cycle the commute to work, which I find really helps clear my head both at the start and the end of the working day. I try to go to the gym when I can, though I am quite good at talking myself out of it! 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive? Be kind to yourself. I think we can all generally be quite self-critical and hard on ourselves. Taking care of both your physical and mental well-being is an integral part of staying positive so, for me, taking time 38

to rest and recharge when you need to and remembering to treat yourself with the same compassion that that you would offer a friend is a really good way to promote a positive mindset. 7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? I’ve always loved the fact that you can travel from the Causeway Coast to the Mourne Mountains in a couple of hours. It’s incredible how Northern Ireland packs such diverse and breathtaking landscapes into a relatively small area – I’ve had friends who have travelled here from abroad and passed similar comment. We’re also a friendly bunch and there’s a really warm and welcoming community spirit in Northern Ireland which I think pleasantly surprises people when they travel here. 8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? I’ve always liked the quote ‘It is not in doing what you like, but in liking what you do that is the secret of happiness’. I think it is really important to do something in life that fulfils you in some way. For me, finding that fulfillment has involved pursuing a career that both challenges and motivates me. Yes, it can be hard work but it is also incredibly rewarding and gives me a real sense of purpose. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? From a professonal standpoint, I think that I have been heavily influenced by my work colleagues, both past and present, in how I conduct myself within the legal profession. You learn so much from those around you in this profession and I’ve been really fortunate in my career to work with a number of amazing and inspirational lawyers, some of whom are unfortunately not with us any more but who left a real mark on me, who believed in me and pushed me to reach my potential. My colleagues at Francis Hanna & Co all have such passion and drive which can be really contagious and this creates a great atmosphere to work and grow and learn in.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: Almost Famous by Cameron Crowe

Band/musician: Changes with my mood but currently Bruce Springsteen Book: The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne

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Board members Joanna Dickey, Natalie Gilbert, Roy Creelman and Kate Nicholl MLA.

Ann Quinn, Natalie Gilbert and Joanna Dickey.

YOUTH LYRIC END-OF-TERM DINNER On Saturday 8th June, Dunmurry Golf Club was the venue for the Youth Lyric end-of-term dinner, which celebrated another highly successful year. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception on the terrace before moving inside the refurbished clubhouse for a relaxing evening. George Rohan, Randal Gilbert, Pete Robinson, Alex Dickey and Milton Stewart.

Ide Scullin, Lynne Webber, Aileen Browne and Kate Nicholl MLA.

Patrick Hetherington, Alison Young, Ann Quinn and Chris Cairns.

Main sponsors William Scott, Annette and Michael McAdam and Kate Nicholl MLA.

Senior staff: Jane Stewart, Rachel Robinson, Natalie Gilbert and Aidan Browne. 40

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Mukesh Sharma and Selwyn Johnston.

Hollie Murray and Richard Taylor.

Gabrielle Campbell and Darren Anderson.

Tracie and Stefan Andreasson.

Shauna Collins and Adrian Johnston.

Alan and Lorraine Devers.

Fiona Kane, Claire-Anne Mills and Cathy Gormley-Heenan.

Paul Mackle, Ruth Smyth, Colm Connolly and Richard Hill from Deluxe Group meet US Consul James Applegate.

INDEPENDENCE DAY GARDEN PARTY The US residence at Ardnavally hosted a memorable 248th Independence Day garden party on Thursday, 27th June 2024. Despite the challenging weather, guests gathered under festively decorated canopies, enjoying the lively atmosphere and spirited conversations. The highlight of the evening was Consul General James Applegate’s inspiring speech, emphasising the strong cultural and economic links between Northern Ireland and the US. Attendees braved the rain, celebrating the occasion with delicious American cuisine, patriotic decorations and camaraderie. The event was a testament to resilience, unity and the enduring friendship between the two regions.

Patrick Anderson, Marla Gale and Brian Kelly.

Dr Satyavir Singhal, Annette McCullough and Terry McErlane. 42

Alfred and Ruth Abolarin, Jon Glass, Hilary and Reggie Clark.

Roger Pollen, Sir Julian King, Tina McKenzie, Lord Caine, Caroline Feeney and Prof Deirdre Heenan.

US Consul James Applegate with Carlie Rosbotham who sang the US anthem at the party.

Alan Graham, Pamela Ballantine and Richard Hogg.

Claire McGee, Ann McGregor and Mary McKenna.

US Marine colour guard.

Frank Shivers and Jonathan Stewart.

Rowan, Ricky, Trevor, Urbi, Alan and Gary from AECOM.

Sarah Boyke and Mary Turley.

Prof Deirdre Heenan, US Consul James Applegate and Cathy Martin.

Suzanne Wylie, John Walsh and Gina McIntyre.

Erin and James Sherry. 43

Oscar-winning movie star James Martin with Pamela Ballantine and Reggie Clark.

Helen Gallagher, Daphne Montgomery and Donna Harkin from Danos Pet Shop.

Clare Scott McAteer, Una McCabe, Debbie Deans and Maria Curran.

The team from Morans, Derry.

Representatives from Millennium Forum.

Ursula O’Neill and Tracey Gillespie.

Orla Clifford, Clare Doherty, Holly O’Doherty, Susan O’Doherty and Carmel Burns from NW Pest Control.

Angela O’Callaghan, Shannon O’Kane and Niamh Canning from The Playhouse.

Sarah Canavan and Shirley Barrett.

NORTH WEST BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 The 2024 North West Business Awards, organised by City Centre Initiative and Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, celebrated and awarded the region’s best at a spectacular gala ceremony. Attendees enjoyed an evening ﬁlled with recognition, networking and celebration of business excellence in the North West.

Majella McDermott, John Houston, Peter McDermott, Anna Doherty, Debbie Deans and Michael Kelly. 44

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Catherine Taylor and Natasha Kirk.

Michael Rogers and Leslie Fingland.

Deborah Erskine MLA and Cheryl Brownlee.

COMMUNITY BREAKFAST Gregory Campbell MP hosted a community breakfast event at Roe Park Resort on Friday 10th May 2024. Junior Minister Pam Cameron MLA was guest speaker at the breakfast.

Adrian Kelly, Roisin McAliskey and John Moore.

Gregory Campbell with Federation of Small Business members and team. Neil O’Prey and Jayne Taggart.

Alan Robinson MLA, Deborah Erskine MLA and Gregory Campbell MP.

Michael Long, David Care, Hilary Faith, John Lawler and John Fullerton. 46

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Twins Georgia and Victoria Scullion.

Down netball coaches Joanne McNulty, Kiara Dryden, Jenna Corrin, Claire Ferguson and Natalie Reilly.

Co-founders Ann Trainer and Eileen Ferguson.

Down Senior Team ‘Mona Baird Shield’ Winners 2024.

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS On Friday 17th May, Down Ladies Netball Club celebrated their 40th Anniversary at The Mill at Ballydugan. Members, current and former, attended the gala ball with co-founders Ann Trainer and Eileen Ferguson. Colleen Morrison, NMDC Sports development ofﬁcer, was the guest speaker. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, followed by an awards presentation and dancing to celebrate.

Former players, Angela Laird, Maureen Fitzpatrick, Marie Whittington and Vanessa Robinson.

Sarah Scullion.

Gala committee: Emma Holland, Joanne McNulty, Kiara Keown, Oonagh Murray, Anne McCavera, Pauline Brannigan and Ciara McElroy.

Under 19s: Niamh McElroy (Ardglass), Lauren McGurnaghan (Strangford) and Sally Reilly (Strangford).

Coach Natalie Reilly and manager Jordan Donnelly. 48

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Kayleigh Sweeney, Eve Cullen, Lauren Kinman, Bronagh McIntyre, Alice Doherty and Kerry Houston.

Grace McAuﬁeld, Jackson Allen, Patrick McMahon and Anna Mitchell.

QUB DRAMA SOCIETY FORMAL On Thursday 16th May, Queen’s University Belfast Drama Society held their annual formal at the Europa Hotel. A great night was had by all, beginning with a drinks reception followed by a 3-course gourmet dinner, an awards and raffle presentation and, finally, dancing to finish off the evening.

Lucy Williamson, Rebecca Pugh, James Preston and Eimear McCann.

Hannah McCrissican, Amy Smyth, Robyn McNerlin and Matthew Macdonald.

Rheanna Gilmore, Samuel Jones, Benedict Cunningham and Hannah Smyth.

Sean O’Brien, Nathan Clarke, Inez Cassidy and Alex Carson.

Eimear O’Neill, Patricia McDonald and Amy Griffen.

Lauren McCausland, Oran McMahon and Chanel Craven.

Beth Beattie, Jackson Allen, Patrick McMahon, Daniel Armstrong and Grace McAuﬁeld. 50

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Karen McIlroy, Shauna Elliman and Louise Rodgers.

Rebecca McKinney.

Catherine O’Connor and Shileen McConville (From Code Fashion, Camlough).

Taylor Johnston, Helene McKendry, Caitlin Hylands and Amy McCormick.

Ally and Faith Amond.

Shane and Catherine McKillion.

Gemma Esler and Dawn Stephens.

Grainne McCoy from RPM Luxury Car Hire.

Kellymarie Latham, Ailie McGinty, Naomi Callanan and Trish Byrne.

DOWN ROYAL 2024 Step into the vibrant world of Down Royal Racecourse on June 22, 2024, where elegance and exhilaration blended seemlessly. This unforgettable day saw attendees dressed to the nines, with fascinators, suits and designer dresses creating a spectacular display of high fashion. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd buzzing in anticipation of the thrilling horse races that lay ahead. This event epitomised glamour and excitement. It’s arguably the grandest occasion of the year, known for bringing fashion and sport together in perfect harmony.

Shanice Gillespie, Kirsty Doherty, Laura Lee Campbell, Cassie Abbott and Emma McConnell.

Caoimhe Lynch, Cara Kerlan, Roma and Kate Donaghy.

Kathy McMullan and Frances McAree.

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Elaine Crewe and Michael Murray.

Naomi and Aidan Callanan.

Charlene Hughes and Elaine Harbinson.

Philip and Debbie McLorinan.

Mel and Svetlana Campbell.

Caoimhe Lynch, Cara Kerlan, Roma and Kate Donaghy.

Emmett Brolly, Cathal McCann, Ray and Aimee McGuinness.

Rebecca McKinney and Miss NI Hannah Johns.

Rachel Hawkes, Chelsee McCausland, Hannah Hawkes and Donne Elkin.

Alexander Mills, Siobhan BuchananJohnston and Mike Roden.

Corina Robinson and Angela O’Rourke.

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July 2024

INTERVIEW

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

BY JANE HARDY

Making The News Jane Hardy chats to newscaster Rose Neill, Ulster Tatler Influential Woman of the Year, Lifetime Award recipient, about the role of the broadcaster and her ‘TV husband’ Paul Clark.

t’s official. Rose Neill, doyenne of the UTV news desk and one of the coolest heads in the business, is the most influential woman of the year in Northern Ireland. She received the lifetime award from the Ulster Tatler last month. “It was a very well-organised event, but I don’t know if I’m deserving of the award. It was more about the people who have given me a steer over the last 47 years of service, pointed me in the right direction.” She namechecks international broadcaster Don Anderson, former managing director of UTV, Michael Wilson and current UTV head of news and programmes, Simon Clemison. Her modesty could be attributed to the fact that Rose Neill was brought up at a Quaker boarding school, in York. But she admits to a particular status and the responsibility that goes with it. “There is a certain responsibility. You can’t be in the studio wearing garish clothes and have an enormous smile on your face when there’s been a 12-car pileup on the motorway with several dead. You have to be sensitive to so many things.” She adds: “Over the years I’ve interviewed people who have been bereaved through no fault of their own on both sides of the community. I have to have a bit of empathy, I can’t show my personal emotion.” Rose Neill recalls one devastating accident she had to report on, which turned into a very emotionally demanding news bulletin. “While covering the 6am news on a BBC shift we reported a road traffic accident in Donegal. It transpired that my first cousin had been killed.” Rose recalls her sister had arrived at the BBC at 5.30am to find her, and to break the news. “I said yes, it’s in our bulletin, but no names have yet been released, and I had to read it knowing it was him. By the time the next news bulletin went on air they’d found somebody else to take my place, and let me go home.” Sometimes the smallest details stir very strong emotions. “This is an odd one. There had been an army

bomb-disposal expert killed and I had to commentate on the funeral. What nearly set me off crying was seeing the cortege. You see, the first ‘person’ behind the coffin was his black Labrador. It was so sad. My voice started to croak.” On a lighter note, Rose Neill’s celebrity means that she is often recognised. This does not bother her. She says, “I don’t mind it, I think people in Northern Ireland are very civil, and don’t want to invade my privacy. They just want to have a wee chat. This happens a lot, but rarely when I’m out having dinner. In general people are sensitive to my privacy and are always very nice.” Asked what she’s proudest of in her long career, she says “Proud doesn’t enter my vocabulary. I was brought up a Quaker, I’m honoured to be trusted by people who watch the news, and the viewing figures show Paul (Clark) and I seem to be trusted.” She adds, “There are so many moments which stand out in the almost five decades of broadcasting, they include a radio interview with top American broadcaster Walter Cronkite and discussions with Margaret Thatcher in my previous job. It has been a privilege to work in this industry.” In an age of social media you wonder what is the role of TV news. Neill reveals that she does not dabble in the Twittersphere. “I don’t use social media, don’t use X, and have never been on Facebook. I think, particularly here in Northern Ireland, we’re traditional. We sit down at six o’clock to find out what’s going on. People like that time, and because the programme is available on streaming service ITVX, they can catch up if they miss something.” She indicates that the conventional news report ensures accuracy, something you don’t always get when you read opinions on social media. “We work very hard at UTV to make sure everything is accurate and we are absolutely fastidious about getting our facts right.” The daily script for UTV news is provided in skeleton form by the reporters and is then worked on

Rose pictured with Rebecca McKinney receiving her Influential Woman of the Year award at the Ulster Tatler Influential Women Awards.

INTERVIEW

Rose pictured on Hop Skip and Jump.

by Paul Clark and Rose to give it their distinctive voice. We talk in the middle of a general election but Rose Neill is adamant that she is not a political animal. “It’s better for the programme that I’m not political at all — although I follow Nick Robinson and all the political journalists.” But Rose has met some of the top names in politics. “I met Mrs Thatcher in London in a restaurant and said ‘you may not remember me but…’ as I had met her many times in Belfast, and she asked us to join her and Denis at the end of the meal.” Rose does a very good impression of the Iron Lady. Another significant encounter was a lovely radio interview with House of Commons Speaker, Betty Boothroyd. “She was interesting, interested, funny and charming.” You have to ask Rose Neill about ageism, thought by some commentators at the time to be the reason she left the BBC. “In ITV, ageism simply does not exist. I can’t comment about anywhere else I have worked.” Rose goes on to say that this applies both to men and women. When asked about women in broadcasting, Rose said, “I believe 100% in meritocracy - I don’t care if you are a man or a woman, you should get the job if you deserve it on your merits. There should be no discussion of gender or age, or race or religion.” Interestingly, Rose Neill’s definition of a good broadcaster is “somebody who pales into the background”. She adds, “If you have an outrageous haircut or loud clothes, or zany jewellery, then people at home will be saying ‘I don’t like that blouse etc.’ instead of listening to what I’m saying. I think if I am classically or conservatively dressed, the viewer will hear the information without distraction.’’ In terms of style, the fashionable figure we see on the small screen shops at big budget stores with the occasional more expensive label. “Sometimes a really cheap and ghastly jacket in real life can look good on the screen. I do wear red and stripes but have to be careful of strobing.” The relationship between Paul Clark and Rose Neill that we see nightly is genuine. “He’s my TV husband and we’re telepathically joined at the hip. When there’s a rare technical catastrophe, we know by the way we’re breathing that he will read the next item and without any kick under the desk or any glances, we know when I’ll pick up.” She adds, “I sometimes give him grief saying, ‘You’re certainly not wearing

that tie this evening – are you?!’ But it’s all good banter.” Rose began in television after attending The Mount School, York, in England. At the age of five, when the TV was on in her house (“one of those which took ten minutes to warm up”), she said to her father, “When I’m a big girl, I’m going to work in TV.” And he said ‘Yes darling’, and just patted her on the head. But she was determined and wrote to all the TV stations during her last year at school. “I got interviews and was runner-up for what would eventually become Treasure Hunt with Anneka Rice. UTV said come and do ‘Hop, Skip and Jump’, a kind of Blue Peter for schools. At school my best subjects were physics, chemistry and biology.” Apparently, once she started broadcasting on UTV, her mother commented it was “ridiculous, working on that television - you’ll have to get a proper job”. But her brilliant career had only just begun. Longevity is something Rose attributes to keeping below the parapet. “I paddle my own canoe, keep my head below the parapet, avoid issues that do not concern me in the office. We have a really great team at UTV, aged from the early twenties to the ‘oldies’ like Paul and me. We all socialise and go out together.” In her time off, Rose plays golf with 11 close girlfriends, badly she says. She sails near her home on Strangford Lough and enjoyed horse riding until just recently. “In real life I’m very different from the sensible person you see on TV.” A few colleagues say she has a fantastic sense of humour and is quickwitted with her naughty jokes.” Her two sons, Roger and Henry, live in London. “The younger one is an orthopaedic surgeon and his wife is a doctor. They have an adorable little boy who’s 15-months-old, called Magnus. He calls me Bunny Rose.” Her elder son is a business consultant and his wife is a teacher. “I don’t get to see him or the family enough, although I do try to get over to London as often as possible.” The good news is Rose still relishes her job. The woman who was offered Jan Leeming’s job when Jan left, didn’t take it because of family commitments. She says with enormous and genuine enthusiasm: “I wake up in the morning and think, I’m working today. Yippee.”

STYLE

July 2024

EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED AT ONE OF NI’S HOTTEST EVENTS.

The style credentials lived up to expectations at the Ulster University Fashion Show with Danielle Neville, Elizabeth McGillicuddy and Leah Corbett rocking summer layering.

July 2024

GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

It’s Festival Season, Baby! The festival season is here! Even the months of cloud and rain couldn’t dampen my excitement about the latest clothing and accessories collection by Rita Ora x Primark. Inspired by the iconic boho-chic look, the range focuses on high summer festival styles with big rufﬂes, sheer dresses and statement accessories. The collection landed in all Primark stores on June 18th. Browse the range on the Primark website and check availability of your favourite products using the stock-checker before heading to your preferred store. Form an orderly queue folks! From boho maxis to 1990s denim, here’s what I’m coveting.

Nuala Meenehan and Caoímhe McGinley (@thebighillhouse) at Tierra de Don Julio, The Crafty Vintner.

Embroidered cami top, £14.

skirt, £12, Tie front blouse, £16, tiered mini biker and £16 , bag studded faux leather £32. boots,

Gold sheer maxi dress £30.

enehan at h Berry and Nuala Me Roisin Surgenor, Bronag au Park. me Or , nic lso Be concert at the Blondie and Sting

The Perfect Sundowner If you’re keen to ﬁnd a new summer drink, might I suggest a Paloma? Set to be the sundowner of the season, Don Julio Tequila makes theirs with their signature tequila Don Julio Blanco, Poacher’s Grapefruit Soda, and lime juice, garnished with a slice of fresh grapefruit. Salud to the team at Tierra de Don Julio, who welcomed guests to an exclusive private dining and Paloma masterclass at The Crafty Vintner last month, kickstarting the summer season. Salud!

Every little thing they did was magic! What a night! Two music legends, one stage, 20,000 fans and the sun shone all day! Blondie and Sting – every little thing you did was magic!

Winner Womenswear Brand of the Year

Edward Harris Agencies

+353 86 811 7901 edwardgharris@gmail.com

GIRL ABOUT TOWN EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Rita Ora x Primark Launch

t was off to Dublin’s fair city last month for the highly anticipated launch of the festival-inspired collection by Rita Ora x Primark. Fashion guru Cathy Martin joined Melissa Riddell and fashion editor Bairbre Power for the special preview event. This is the fourth collection with international superstar and style icon Rita Ora, perfectly timed for style fans embracing this summer’s festival season. The latest collection is designed to be effortless and freeing, with ethereal, delicate tops, soft ﬂoral embroidery, asymmetric silhouettes and lightweight fabrics. The collection launches in tandem with Rita’s new festival summer song, “Ask and You Shall Receive”, which was released on May 31st. The festival-inspired collection by Rita Ora x Primark is in stores nationwide now. Cathy Martin and Elaine Foss.

Fashion editor Bairbre Power.

Melissa Riddell, Emma Jane Mooney and Rachel Nugent.

Nuala Meenehan and Bethany Chisholm.

Laura Rooney.

Nicole Adams at the launch of the festival collection. 62

Patrick Kavanagh and Zara Paolozzi.

Travelling abroad for dental treatment:

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW An increasing number of people from this part of the world are travelling abroad to undertake lower-cost dental treatments which they could not otherwise afford at home. We have all, however, heard the warnings around the risks involved in availing of such services far from home. If you are thinking about going abroad for dental work, it is essential that you consider a range of factors other than just cost e.g. a clinic’s reputation with other overseas patients, the qualifications of the practitioners, your rights and protections in the country of treatment should something go wrong. Before committing to treatment, you must receive a fully costed treatment plan including information on any risks associated with the treatment and details of follow-up care. Kreativ Dental Clinic in Budapest, Hungary has been treating patients from Ireland and around the world for over 20 years. Mary Flanagan, the clinic’s representative in Ireland, outlined that the clinic has an expert team of dental specialists offering high-quality care using state-of-the-art technology. They have a proven track record when it comes to patient safety and quality of treatment and, importantly, there is an after-care service in Ireland. Planning for overseas treatment can take some time and effort but it is crucial that you get the right advice and support beforehand. Ideally, speak to someone who has travelled to the clinic before; Mary Flanagan of Kreativ Dental Clinic is a former patient herself and will happily share her experiences and answer any questions. The clinic offers a free consultation, including an OPG X-ray and a full breakdown of the treatment plan. It is then your decision if you wish to proceed with treatment or not.

AFTER CARE IN

Ireland

For more information, contact Mary Flanagan who is the ROI and NI representative for Kreativ Dental Clinic. Call Mary on 00353 86 0299998 or 028 9530 0100 or email: mary@kreativdentalclinic.eu or visit kreativdentalclinic.eu

STYLE 01

FASHION

Festival Ready 06

1 . S u m m e r m e s h d re s s , £ 8 9 , N e v e r Fu l l y D re s s e d . 2 . F l o ra l t a s s e l bag, £35, Accessorize. 3. Ibiza s c e n i c p r i n t s h i rt , £ 5 5 a n d w i d e l e g t ro u s e r s , £ 6 5 , O l i v e r B o n a s . 4. Summer collection, River I s l a n d . 5 . A s a We s t e r n b o o t s i n s i l v e r, £ 3 2 5 , W h i s t l e s . 6 . Ra ff y sunglasses, £195, Mulberry. 7 . D e f Le p p a rd t e e , £ 1 4 , F & F.

PROMOTIONAL PROFILE

    Style Details: Dresses: Oxfam Shoes: Oasis Jewellery: Argento

With womenswear, menswear, homeware and designer items, the Oxfam Superstore in Holywood is more than just a charity shop. Oxfam was set up over 75 years ago as one amazing movement to end poverty and its impact can be seen worldwide. With a focus on sustainability, more and more people are exploring charity shops for their fashion finds. They are a treasure trove of unique pieces at cheaper prices, but most importantly the funds are going towards vital causes. Oxfam Superstore volunteer, Sharon Malone, knows all too well the impact that charities can have on lives, having lost a loved-one to cancer. As a thank you to everyone who supported her during this tough time, she would like to raise money for charity. “A motto I live by is that you have to nourish, to flourish – and make the most of every minute. I would like to push myself out of my comfort zone and offer my modelling services to small businesses. Any fee that I get will be donated to charity, to give back to those who helped me in my time of need. I would personally like to thank Jennifer Waugh and Demmi Devlin for their support in the Cancer Unit at Belfast City Hospital; Fiona Anderson and the staff at Oxfam Superstore, and also my family.” The photo shoot took place in the trendy surroundings of room2 Hotel, Belfast – Sharon wishes to extend a special thank you to hotel managers Joanne Neale and Michelle Thomas for being so accommodating. Sharon styled herself completely for the shoot – everything from hair and make-up to the beautifully curated clothes from Oxfam. Sharon keeps fit with Gym Co and would also like to thank the fabulous team there. If you would like to hire Sharon as a model for your business or project, you can contact via email:sharonmalone2017@gmail.com @movie_stars87

daughters out to school. I work as a Business Development Manager three days a week, so on these days I head to the office. During the other days (and nights) you will find me at Velvet Vixen at Edenmore House in Magheralin, which is close to my home. My daily routine at Velvet Vixen could be meeting resellers, taking private appointments, travelling to suppliers or attending networking events, amongst many other things! Like any busy mother and entrepreneur, the evenings are filled with the usual homework, dinner and bedtime routines. When the kids go to bed the laptop opens again, usually to do work for my husband’s business. Never a dull moment! 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? As of late, launching Velvet Vixen has been a huge priority in terms of my free time, so it’s been harder to stick to a regime. Generally, though, I enjoy spinning and walking, and keep promising myself that I’ll return to horse riding when I get a chance. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive? I’m a big believer in the idea that ‘everything happens for a reason’. I feel that if you look at every situation from this perspective, you can perhaps identify solutions and positive outcomes. This outlook helps me find positivity in situations of adversity.

Colleen McAreavey Owner of Velvet Vixen Boutique.

1. What do you love most about your job? I undertake a variety of roles alongside my latest venture, Velvet Vixen. I’ve been a business adviser for over 20 years and have found this to be both rewarding and inspiring. Velvet Vixen is my second business, following on from my first and ongoing business, Communion Dress Boutique. Velvet Vixen is a designer boutique which features bespoke, unique, new and onceworn couture and accessories. What I love most about all of my work-related pursuits is that I get the chance to meet people and get to know their story. Velvet Vixen is not just about finding the perfect couture for your special occasion, or just about sustainability. It is also about finding a piece that reflects you, your personality, and your authentic self. This is what I love most about my new venture.

2. What has been your career highlight to date? There have been countless highlights in each of my different roles, and all revolve around recognising the potential in others and helping them grow. I believe in selfexpression through style and have styled others for special events. Through this, I have discovered how much I enjoy this aspect of fashion. Velvet Vixen recently received a reshare on socials from Jimmy Choo… that definitely made my day! 3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work? I love family time, eating out, fine wine, nice things, good fun, vivacious friends, travel, listening to podcasts, getting into a good book and attending fashion events. 4. What is your daily routine? It’s always an early start getting our two 66

7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? I think the people of NI are its biggest asset. The sense of community, humility and comradery here is unrivalled. 8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.” (Henry Ford) 9. Who has been your biggest influence? Throughout my life, it has always been my parents. They have always encouraged my siblings and I to reach our full potential. They also encouraged us to seek out opportunities but have raised us to recognise the importance of remaining grounded and treating others as we would expect to be treated ourselves.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: The Devil Wears Prada Band/musician: Gossip Book: The Secret Restaurant: The Curious Fox Holiday Destination: Italy Drink: Sauvignon Blanc, Prosecco and Mojito – too hard to choose just one Meal: Paella

MOLE REMOVAL AT BELFAST SKIN CLINIC

Ireland’s leading Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Clinic MOLE REMOVAL

EYELID SURGERY

SKIN CANCER REMOVAL

BROW LIFT

SCAR REVISION

EAR CORRECTION

VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENTS

HAND SURGERY

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

www.belfastskinclinic.com

PROMOTIONAL PROFILE

Christine Mackin, founder and owner of south Belfast’s Radiance Beauty and Day Spa, was recognised and celebrated for her outstanding contribution to the Northern Ireland beauty industry at the 2024 NI Beauty Excellence Awards on Saturday 15 June at Belfast’s Crown Plaza Belfast Hotel; a spectacular event hosted by Sarah Weir of Weir Events. The business, nestled in the leafy suburbs of the Upper Lisburn Road, was just a seed of inspiration when established back in 2002, operating from a modest city centre dwelling in the heart of Belfast. It has since flourished from its humble beginnings into the thriving empire it is today, due to the drive and determination of this dynamic entrepreneur. The salon currently employs a bank of 24 permanent staff, all of whom have been trained and mentored to an elite standard by Christine herself. This is reflected in glowing reviews from loyal Radiance clients who expressed their appreciation: “Professional, discreet staff.” “Experts in all areas.” “Best salon in Belfast!” The eight-strong panel of judges, all experts in their respective fields, were unanimous in their decision in awarding Christine the ‘Outstanding Contribution Award’, not only commemorating her many and varied achievements, accolades and accomplishments in growing her own business over the years, but also acknowledging just how much she has given back to the industry. She has sponsored many NI beauty industry awards events, categories and individuals in order to help like-minded business owners achieve much deserved recognition. Christine explains that her involvement and support of multiple local charities fulfils her philanthropic passion. Her trailblazing inventiveness has resulted in her introducing groundbreaking and innovative treatments to these shores. Katrina Doran, head judge on the panel, said: “Christine’s Radiance Beauty and Day Spa has picked up numerous NI Beauty Excellence Awards since they began in 2019, last year taking away three on the night. We have always been impressed by the way she conducts her business, the glowing testimonials from both her staff and clients, and how she gives back to the industry with her mentorship.” Christine’s mantra, which her team shares, is ‘work with dedication, deliver with conviction and view every obstacle as an undiscovered path of enlightenment’. Christine says that her moral compass and work ethic means that no one is left behind. Aware that her girls all have unique talents and preferences, Christine has solely funded and created an educational milieu for them, tailored to each individual’s strengths − guiding, advising and arming them with the tools they need to carve careers in this results driven, ever-evolving sector. Christine describes herself as ‘the hub

of the wheel, her girls the spokes - the ambassadors of her dreams, living out her legacy’. Radiance Beauty and Day Spa also picked up the ‘Salon of the Year 2024’ award on the night. Christine said: “I am truly humbled to have received these awards. Nights like these make all the blood, sweat and tears worthwhile and allow us to celebrate each other’s achievements. Prestigious awards like the NI Beauty Excellence Awards are badges of honour and place businesses on an acclaimed platform from which to catapult them to phenomenal heights.” She added: “But the greatest takeaway from any awards ceremony is the knowledge that all competition

is healthy − we’re all in this together! Standing shoulder to shoulder, inspiring, supporting and honouring each other. We are not each other’s competitors but inspiration.” After living through the trauma of Bell’s Palsy and the devastating effects of dealing with it in her formative years, Christine used the painful memories of her experience to fuel her lifelong ambition to help others feel confident in their own skin. In the words of Pamela Ballentine: “She is the Big Mammy of the beauty business and genuinely deserves this Big Daddy Award. She is a virtuoso, maven, a pint-sized power house”, And now, the newly crowned Queen of the NI Beauty Industry.”

78 – 80 Upper Lisburn Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT10 0AD l info@radiancedayspa.co.uk l 028 9060 0031

PROMOTIONAL PROFILE

Transforming Your Skin Confidence Ulster Tatler’s Natasha Nelson speaks to Victoria Shields from The Skin Health Clinic, Newry, winner of ‘Specialist Clinic of the Year’ at the NI Beauty Excellence Awards. Can you tell us how it felt to receive ‘Specialist Clinic of the Year’ at the NI Beauty Excellence Awards? We knew the competition would be fierce, but I am absolutely delighted to have won such a prestigious award! As a specialised clinic, we’ve been dedicated to skin health for the last seven years, long before skincare became a mainstream trend. Winning this award truly means the world to us.

People often comment on this, and our 100-plus five-star Google reviews frequently mention the team, their friendliness, and their character. This really shows how invested the team is in our success. What future plans or upcoming projects do you have for the Skin Health Clinic that you’re excited about? We moved to a larger clinic two years ago and are still in a growth phase. We are always excited about meeting new clients and helping them achieve their skincare goals. Reaching more clients and making a positive impact on their skin will always be our top priority. People often ask if we plan to open another clinic, and who knows, that might be in our future as well.

Could you share with us the journey of the Skin Health Clinic? As someone who has suffered from sensitive skin and always struggled to find effective products or brands, I realised that skincare needed to be more than just about the feel and smell. After studying skin more in-depth and adopting a corneotherapeutic approach, I decided that it was about time to open a clinic dedicated to facial treatments and skincare, something completely unheard of in Northern Ireland at the time. Ultimately, skincare should focus on the health of the skin. I reached a point where my life’s mission became helping people with their skin. I then opened the Skin Health Clinic in February 2017.

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like this is really hard or you’re not being taken seriously because you were a woman? I opened my first business at age 19, and now I have a successful clinic, a team of staff, a husband and three children. People ask me all the time, “How do you do it especially as a woman?” Sometimes, I think we overthink these things and convince ourselves we can’t do everything, instead of adopting the mindset that we can. I believe there’s no such thing as work-life balance; rather, it’s about work-life harmony. If you’re passionate about something, you’ll do it to the best of your ability.

What sets the Skin Health Clinic apart from other skin clinics? Our difference lies in the vast knowledge our skincare team has about skin and the unique, specialised brands we work with, such as Dermaviduals®. We take a 360-degree approach to skincare, making our methods truly unique and unmatched. With our expertise and specialised brands, we can custom-blend products to meet each client’s specific needs, providing a highly personalised experience. This commitment to tailored care sets us apart and ensures we cater to each client on an individual level.

19 Lower Catherine Street, Newry, Co.Down, BT35 6BE T: 028 3082 8808 E: hello@theskinhealthclinic.co.uk

www.theskinhealthclinic.co.uk

Have you found that there have been challenges when building and running your clinic? Running a business is never free of challenges, but we’ve experienced growth every year for seven years in a row. Even during the tough years of the pandemic, we adapted by offering online consulting. Our clients trust and believe in what we do, and that trust has paid dividends. In your time in this industry, I’m sure there have been many memorable and rewarding moments. Which moments stand out to you? The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the positive impact in my clients’ lives every day. It’s not just about changing skin; it’s about changing lives. The daily rewards of seeing clients gain confidence and happiness make my work fulfilling. Of course, winning this award has been a recent highlight! What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own clinic? If you have a genuine passion and believe it’s your calling, pursue it wholeheartedly. I always say that if you bring passion and education to the table, clients and success will naturally follow. Personally, I transitioned entirely from beauty to skincare. After 16 years, I sold my beauty salon, which many thought was a risky move, but my true passion was in skincare. Can you tell us about the team that you have working for you and their contribution to this success? The team I’ve brought in are advanced skin therapists, and I have taken the time to take each one under my wing and train them. I can honestly say that they are the best bunch of girls. They are incredibly passionate, not just about their work, but also about our clients. They’re equally as passionate as I am.

Courtney McKeown, Alison Martin, Victoria Shields and Lynsey Sharp.

PROMOTIONAL PROFILE

Unique Flair

Eden Beauty at

(L-R): Sarah McCready Amy Young Naomi McCallum Cherith Waddell (category partner from Adorn dress hire)

They believe in working with the community, providing sponsorship to schools and local sports groups by providing fun days in their local area in order to give back to the local community.

Eden Beauty-Portaferry is a beauty salon on the Ards peninsula that has recently scooped the ‘Nail Salon of the Year’ award at the prestigious Northern Ireland Beauty Excellence Awards. Winning this award has been their absolute highlight of the year. The Awards judge the nail industry within Northern Ireland; a really competitive field that has just become bigger and better each year.

beauty treatments. All of their staff are highly trained and they can offer a wide range of beauty treatments: everything from nails, facials, massage, eyebrow treatments, lash treatments and make-up to tanning using the amazing RBF tanning products. They love their clients to come in and leave all of their troubles at the door, enjoying high standard treatments using quality products.

Ingrid Graham, Bio sculpture and Elim ambassador, who was a judge of ‘nail salon of the year’, said: “Eden Beauty-Portaferry stood out with its supportive team, where each individual brings a unique flair to the salon. Located in a small town, this talented team defies the common expectation that excellence is reserved for big cities. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable. It is crucial to support and celebrate the efforts of our local industry professionals.”

Their main goal is to see a client walk out the door with a smile from ear to ear, feeling confident that they can take on anything. The team relationships and the support they provide to each other is fundamental to what they do. They support one another and this is reflected in their relationships with clients.

Eden Beauty-Portaferry specialises in nails and nail art but also offers a wide array of

Most recently Eden Beauty has become a ‘Naio Nails Content Creator’. This gives them an opportunity to showcase their unique and bespoke nail designs with Naio Nails high quality nail products. The team at Eden Beauty is constantly evolving and developing their skills by attending the latest courses and masterclasses to make sure they are offering the most up-to-date treatments.

The salon can also offer unique niche experiences: special events held in the salon such as private bridal prep nights or princess parties.

Eden Beauty-Portaferry 1A High street, Portaferry BT22 1RR

tel:

07549 301 387

email: beautyeden916@gmail.com Edenbeauty._portaferry Eden beauty-Portaferry

ADVERTORIAL

Meet Your Surgeon - Dr Kevin McDonald of Tir na nOg Clinic Welcome to Tir na nOg Clinic, a family-run establishment specialising in hair transplant surgery. At the forefront of the clinic is Dr. Kevin McDonald, a highly skilled and dedicated surgeon with an unwavering commitment to his craft. Hailing from Baldoyle in Dublin, Dr. Kevin pursued his medical education at the University of Galway (then UCG), where he completed his studies in 1999. His expertise lies in cardiothoracic surgery, the field he delved into after graduating.

Restore your hair and confidence like you never lost it

During his time in Galway, fate intervened, bringing Dr. Kevin together with his now-wife, Natasha, who was pursuing engineering studies at the same university. After obtaining his medical degree, Kevin initially embarked on his professional journey in the UK, where he and Natasha spent five transformative years. It was during this period that they tied the knot and started their family. In 2005, an opportunity arose in Dr. Kevin’s specialisation, beckoning him back to his beloved Ireland. Eager to return home, the family embraced this chance, leading Dr. Kevin to practice surgery at a number of prestigious hospitals, including the Mater Private and Blackrock Clinic, over the following decade.

Surgical and non-surgical hair loss treatments provided by an experienced surgeon with the focus of achieving a natural look. We are a surgical hair loss clinic in Ireland, owned and run by an Irish surgeon.

However, the year 2014 proved to be a pivotal moment in Dr. Kevin’s career trajectory as an increasing fascination with hair transplant surgery took hold. Determined to explore this innovative field further, Dr. Kevin committed himself to extensive training, thus embarking on a transformative journey to become a hair transplant surgeon. In 2015, driven by a resolute vision, Dr. Kevin made the bold decision to leave his position at Blackrock Clinic. With the support of his wife Natasha, he redirected his skills and expertise towards establishing Tir na nOg Clinic. Since its inception, Tir na nOg Clinic has flourished, catering to the needs of its clientele and relocating to its bespoke premises in 2016.

Cost of transplant pictured is €3,500 €3,500

Dr. Kevin is not only a fountain of knowledge in his field but also a passionate advocate for his patients. Frequently asked why he chose to transition from major surgery to hair transplant surgery and running his own business, Dr. Kevin explains that his decision was multifaceted. From a logical standpoint, he recognised the declining demand for cardiac surgery due to the advent of cardiac stents, while hair transplant surgery has experienced a consistent surge in popularity. Additionally, the long hours and commute associated with his previous speciality were crucial factors that Dr. Kevin considered, given his dedication to his young family of five.

Cost of transplant pictured is €2,500

However, the heart-led aspect of his decision proved equally compelling. Dr. Kevin was motivated by empathy and a desire to alleviate the struggles of individuals battling hair loss. Often affecting relatively young individuals with their lives stretching ahead, the emotional toll of hair loss on their confidence and self-esteem struck a chord with Dr. Kevin. In his eyes, the value of helping these individuals is just as significant as providing care for those with heart conditions. Moreover, he enjoys the personal connections he establishes with his hair transplant patients, during consultations and where the patient is awake during treatment — an invaluable experience not possible with cardiac patients. At Tir na nOg Clinic, you will find not only a skilled surgeon but also a compassionate professional dedicated to helping you achieve your desired results. Dr. Kevin’s commitment to his patients, his extensive knowledge, and his genuine care make him the ideal surgeon to guide you on your journey toward renewed confidence and a brighter future. To get in touch please fill out an online consultation form at www. tirnanogclinic.com/consultation for free. Our prices are between €2,000 and €4,000 Call 01-8489159, WhatsApp 086-8755979, email info@tirnanogclinic.com, Instagram / FB @tirnanogclinic. Alexandra Henry

2nd Floor, Grange Clinic, Grange Road, Dublin 13, D13F7H9 www.tirnanogclinic.com 71

COLUMN July 2024

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

Kerry is founder and director of The Movement Medic

EDITED BY KERRY ASTON

Staying Active and Healthy This Summer Although the summer has gotten off to a wet start, hopefully we’ll see that sun soon! Many of us are keen to enjoy outdoor activities, sports, and all the joys that come with the warmer weather. As a functional medicine doctor, I often get questions about how to stay healthy and active during the summer months. This month, let’s explore some common concerns and practical tips to keep you in peak condition all summer long. Summer Sports and Exercise: What You Need to Know Hydration: The Cornerstone of Summer Health Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re engaging in physical activities under the sun. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even heatstroke. Here’s how you can stay ahead of it: 1. Drink Plenty of Water: Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, more if you’re active. Sip at regular intervals. 2. Use Electrolyte Solutions: These can be particularly useful for athletes or anyone engaging in prolonged physical activity. Look for natural options that avoid artificial additives. 3. Eat Hydrating Foods: Water-rich fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, can supplement your water intake. Fueling Your Body for Optimal Performance Nutrition plays a vital role in how well your body performs and recovers from physical activity. Here are some tips to ensure you’re getting the right fuel: 1. Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Incorporate plenty of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to sustain your energy levels. 2. Nutrient Timing: Eating the right foods at the right time can make a big difference. Try to consume a mix of protein and carbs within 30 minutes of finishing exercise to help recovery. 3. Supplements: While a balanced diet should provide most of your nutrients, supplements like magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids can support muscle function and reduce inflammation. Sunscreen and Sun Safety: Protecting Your Skin Why Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable While soaking up some vitamin D is beneficial, too much sun exposure can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Here’s how to protect yourself:

1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and make sure it’s broad-spectrum to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. 2. Wear Protective Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection against the sun. 3. Seek Shade: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Maintaining Muscle and Joint Health Preventing Injuries During Summer Sports Whether you’re an avid runner, a weekend warrior, or just enjoy a casual game of beach volleyball, it’s important to protect your muscles and joints from injury: 1. Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always start with a warm-up to prepare your muscles and end with a cool down to promote recovery. Simple stretches can go a long way in preventing injuries. 2. Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises to support your joints and muscles. Stronger muscles can help prevent strains and sprains. 3. Proper Footwear: Wearing the right shoes for your activity can prevent foot and ankle injuries. Make sure your shoes provide adequate support and cushioning. Recovery: Listening to Your Body Why Recovery is Just as Important as Activity Giving your body time to recover is essential for preventing injuries and maintaining overall health. Everything we do – from work to exercise, sleep, and what we eat and drink – can either add to or reduce our stress levels. If we don’t maintain the right balance, we start to notice symptoms like poor sleep, anxiety, and recurrent injuries. Here are some key ways to ensure proper recovery: 1. Rest Days: Incorporate rest days into your

exercise routine to allow your muscles to recover. 2. Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. 3. Hydration and Nutrition: Continue to focus on hydration and nutrition even on rest days. Proper nutrition supports recovery and prepares your body for the next workout. Pay Attention to Your Body Balancing these aspects of your lifestyle can significantly impact your stress levels and overall well-being. Pay attention to how your body responds to different activities and rest periods. Tracking trends and symptoms – such as sleep patterns, mood changes, and physical discomfort – can provide valuable information. This tracking can help you understand your body’s needs and take control of your health, ensuring you make informed decisions to maintain optimal performance and well-being. Testing: Tailored Health Insights Understanding Your Body’s Needs For a deeper understanding of your body’s unique needs, consider comprehensive testing. Our Bodyworks packages offer insights into your nutritional status, stress resilience, hormone balance and metabolic health. The advanced Metabolomix+ test can provide a detailed look at everything from antioxidants to amino acids, helping you tailor your health and supplement plans for optimal performance and well-being. By prioritising hydration, nutrition, sun safety, muscle care and recovery, you can enjoy a vibrant, active summer while keeping your body in top shape. Remember, listening to your body and addressing its needs is the key to a healthy and enjoyable season. Stay active, stay safe and make the most of your summer! For more information on our Bodyworks Packages or any of our other full body health checks head to www.themovementmedic. org or contact Dr Kerry for your personalised health solutions by emailing: hello@themovementmedic.org

Personalised Solutions for Your Health, Performance, and Longevity @the_movementmedic www.themovementmedic.org

Forge Physiotheraphy, 6 Bentrim Road, Lisburn, BT28 2GB info@themovementmedic.com T: 07793 718809 72

EXCELLENCE IN DENTAL IMPLANTS AT CRANMORE DENTAL Dental implants are artificial replacements that are used to replace lost teeth and repair bone damage in the mouth. Whether it’s fixing a chipped tooth or restoring missing teeth, dental implants are long-lasting and can help people to feel confident about their smile. Start your dental implant journey with us. Call to book a consultation on 028 9038 1822.

DENTAL IMPLANT BENEFITS • Dental implants look natural and help you to smile with confidence. • All implants are durable and provide stability to the jaw. • You aren’t limited by what you can eat as prosthetic teeth provide stable bases for chewing food. • Implants protect against bone less and stimulate new growth through a process called osseointegration.

15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE 028 9038 1822 www.cosmeticdentistrybelfast.co.uk

COLUMN July 2024

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

EDITED BY REBECCA NELSON

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

Don’t let back pain ruin your holiday this summer At Apex Clinic, Belfast we are specialists in the treatment of all spinal problems. Every summer we hear numerous accounts of how back pain has ruined holidays. What should be a relaxing and fun time is often ruined by pain from long periods travelling, soft mattresses and more time spent sitting than usual, all of which may be doing more damage than you realise. With many of us getting ready to jet off on our summer holidays this month, Apex Clinic founder and Spinal & Headache Physiotherapy Specialist, Rebecca Nelson, shares some valuable advice on keeping your back pain-free this summer. Swim safely Warm weather calls for a dip in the pool to cool down, but we recommend breaking up swimming by gently jogging on the spot, walking forwards or backwards in the water or treading water to provide some more gentle exercise for your back.

Sitting comfortably? Long-haul flights are one of the major causes of lower back pain, but thankfully, this can be reduced, simply by reclining your chair back as far as possible for the duration of your flight. Positioning your seat at the optimum reclined angle of 35 to 45 degrees from the vertical is perfect for reducing the load through your back discs, making it less susceptible to injury. It is also important to get up regularly and walk for just a few minutes as this will really help to reduce the ill effects of prolonged sitting on your spine. Don’t overdo it on arrival When arriving somewhere new, your first instinct is to want to explore your new surroundings straight away, but in the first 24 hours after a long journey, your back is most vulnerable to injury so it is crucial to take care of it at this time. Upon arrival, minimise the lifting of heavy suitcases and avoid running or walking uphill where possible as these activities can increase the risk of lower back injuries, so are best avoided for the first 24 hours. Stay on level ground If your back is prone to injury, I recommend minimising walking or running uphill throughout your holiday to avoid placing a high load on your back discs, which can lead to extreme pain. Keeping to flat surfaces such as the beach or on grass where possible for walking or running is great because it offers shock absorption, reducing the risk of injury. Walking on the flat, little and often, is the best regime.

Your mattress matters If your mattress on holiday is too soft and you experience back pain in the morning, ask if a firmer one is available. If this isn’t an option, it is better to move your bedding to the floor and sleep there in order to reduce the risk of waking up in pain. Sleeping on your side with both knees bent is the best sleeping position for adults with back pain. Use sun loungers wisely Relaxing by the pool is definitely a highlight when on holiday but sitting incorrectly could play havoc with your lower back. However, following these simple tips can go a long way to reducing the load on your back. Firstly, raise your lounger to an angle between 35-45 degrees from the vertical position to avoid lying completely flat. Secondly, roll up two towels and place them underneath your knees to create a slight bend. When it comes to lying on your stomach, towels also come in handy. This time, fold a beach towel to create at least four layers of towel and place it under your stomach to stop your lower back joints jamming together. Finally, break up prolonged sunbathing with brisk walking on the flat or swimming to reduce the risk of a flare up of lower back problems.

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physiotherapy

Apex Clinic could help clear your spinal pain At Apex Clinic, Belfast we have an extremely high success rate in clearing spinal pain, even when patients have had many unsuccessful treatments or failed surgery in the past elsewhere. We offer a unique specialised manual treatment regime called The Nelson Spinal Approach™ which isn’t available at any other clinic, and we have patients travelling for our treatment from all over the UK and Ireland. If you suffer from back pain, help is at hand; call us to book an appointment with one of our specialist physiotherapists today. If you would like to book an appointment at Apex Clinic, contact us on: 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

apex

headache clinic

podiatry

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Ireland’s leading physiotherapy & sports injury clinic info@apexclinic.co.uk www.apexclinic.co.uk

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 74

5-11 Summerhil Avenue, Belfast BT5 7HD Tel: 028 9048 4153

July 2024

H E A LT H M AT T E R S

It’s like having a new life, being migraine free! 57-year-old Joe Byrne from Co. Meath had been suffering constant migraines for ﬁve years. During these difﬁcult years he tried everything in the hope of getting even a little relief, but nothing helped. Here, Joe shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment for headaches and migraines, called The Nelson Headache ApproachTM, cleared his migraines, meaning that he could enjoy life again without constant pain.

Joe, when did your migraines begin? Around ﬁve years ago I started having migraines, it started suddenly for no real reason. I was told that it may have been due to an old whiplash injury but I couldn’t pinpoint one particular thing that had triggered my migraines. I tried physio closer to home and I was also put on medication for my migraines but I was still suffering with constant pain and dizziness every single day. How did the migraines affect your life? I had headaches all day every day and I had to just push through it and continue on; I forgot what it was like not to be in constant pain. At night when I wasn’t busy and it was quiet, I would suffer most as there was nothing to take my mind off the pain. When I lay down in bed I would feel the pain most and I didn’t get a good night’s sleep for a very long time. What led you to Apex Headache Clinic? My wife went online to try and ﬁnd me some help with my migraines. That was when she came across the Apex Headache Clinic website. I decided to give Apex a call and get more information and to book an initial appointment. I live in Co. Meath which is a one hour and 45 minute drive away from Belfast, so it was a commitment to attend once per week for treatment at the beginning, but I was willing to give anything a try to get rid of the constant migraines. How has your life changed since having treatment? My migraines have completely gone! I attended for treatment with my specialist headache physiotherapist once a week at the beginning and once I started to improve my appointments were spaced out further until the improvement was maintained for longer. It’s like having a new life, being migraine free, and those people close to me have noticed a difference as I am in much better form, especially now that I can get a full night’s sleep! What advice would you offer someone suffering from migraines or headaches? I would say go to Apex Headache Clinic. Although it was far for me to travel from Co. Meath, I feel that it was so worth it as it has given me my life back! To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

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physiotherapy

apex

headache clinic

podiatry

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Ireland’s leading physiotherapy & sports injury clinic info@apexclinic.co.uk www.apexclinic.co.uk

info@apexheadacheclinic.co.uk www.apexheadacheclinic.co.uk 75

5-11 Summerhil Avenue, Belfast BT5 7HD Tel: 028 9048 4153

ADVERTISING FEATURE

HAEMOCHROMATOSIS, ‘THE CELTIC CURSE’ Haemochromatosis, ‘The Celtic Curse’, causes toxic iron levels within the body. It is the most common genetic condition in Northern Ireland.

Catherine McComb from Castlereagh was diagnosed with genetic haemochromatosis (iron overload) after experiencing chronic fatigue.

Sean McKegney from Moira was diagnosed with genetic haemochromatosis in 2022 when he saw his GP about another health issue.

In 2023, research by Haemochromatosis UK revealed that genetic haemochromatosis, a condition that causes toxic iron accumulation in the body, is as common as 1 in 10 people in Northern Ireland. While many have not heard of the condition, it is the most common genetic condition in Northern Ireland, also known as ‘the Celtic Curse’.

“Haemochromatosis UK’s advertising campaign in Northern Ireland has raised awareness of how we are more predisposed,” Catherine states. Haemochromatosis UK’s 2023 campaign ran across Belfast and Derry-Londonderry, raising awareness of haemochromatosis in Northern Ireland through TV, billboard and radio. The campaign, in partnership with Belfast advertising agency, Genesis, provides a playful riff on the word ‘haemochromatosis’ to encourage people to research the symptoms for themselves.

Genetic haemochromatosis causes iron to accumulate in the body leading to dangerous iron overload. The body cannot expel this iron, causing it to build around places such as the joints, heart and liver. The symptoms of haemochromatosis can appear differently from person to person and overlap with those of other conditions such as chronic fatigue and menopause. Some may be overwhelmingly fatigued, while others currently experience no symptoms. Even without symptoms, the iron is building.

Sean McKegney, 56, was diagnosed by chance when he saw his GP about another health issue: “I mentioned to my GP that I had been having more and more aches and pains that could not all be attributed to old football injuries... a general blood test showed that my iron levels were over ten-times higher than normal, at which point he suggested it might be genetic haemochromatosis, something I’d never heard of.”

Symptoms can be widespread, including joint pain, fatigue, abdominal pain, brain fog, shortness of breath, bronzing or permanent tan or greyness of the skin, irritability and depression. Other symptoms include sexual problems such as impotence or loss of libido, early menopause or infrequent periods, cardiomyopathy, arthritis (especially in the knuckle and first joint of the first two fingers), pituitary and adrenal issues (Addison’s Disease), and diabetes (late onset).

Not recognising symptoms early may lead to irreversible damage including cirrhosis and heart disease. While many experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and brain fog may expect to find that they are iron deficient, the opposite may be true: they may be experiencing iron overload.

Discussing her experiences of haemochromatosis, Belfast mum Catherine McComb, 41, says, “Chronic fatigue was the main indicator...it was completely at odds with me as an individual.”

If you are concerned about genetic haemochromatosis, the charity Haemochromatosis UK has a telephone helpline open on weekdays Noon-3pm. Call 03030 401 102 or email advice@ ironoverload.org.uk. The charity operates a postal testing service with results available within two weeks. For further details, visit www.IronOverload.org.uk.

It is important to follow up on results, as Catherine recalls: “My blood test came back with elevated levels of iron. The doctor said it was nothing to worry about.”

“In 2023, research by Haemochromatosis UK revealed that genetic haemochromatosis, a condition that causes toxic iron accumulation in the body, is as common as 1 in 10 people in Northern Ireland.” 76

Genetic haemochromatosis runs in families. It’s common but rarely diagnosed.

Early diagnosis could save your life. Talk to your GP or contact us.

www.ironoverload.org.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

NORTH COAST PILATES & PHYSIOTHERAPY CELEBRATING 15 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Founder and CEO, Lizzy Caldwell.

North Coast Pilates & Physiotherapy (NCPP), established in 2009 by chartered physiotherapist and certified pilates instructor Lizzy Caldwell, is considered to be the leading provider of physiotherapy and physiotherapy-led pilates in the Coleraine and north coast area.

NCPP oﬀers the full journey from treatment, rehabilitation to full health, wellness and beyond.

Boasting two large, modern pilates studios, a fully-equipped rehabilitation gym and a dedicated physiotherapy clinic area, the facilities are secondto-none. We cater for a wide variety of specialist populations including ante/post-natal clients, women’s health, sports injury, orthopaedic conditions, musculoskeletal problems and more.

Our premises are second-to-none and the space we have is unheard of in our sector. The top quality ﬁnish of the premises with the highest quality, state-of-the-art equipment is the gold standard in physiotherapy and physio-led pilates, both matwork and reformer. This is something we strive for in all of our sessions and in the facilities and services we oﬀer.

We can progress clients from individualised physiotherapy treatment, through rehabilitation or specific one-to-one pilates (both matwork and reformer), building up their strength, flexibility and endurance. All of the staff are specialist physiotherapists in their field with a wealth of experience as well as a shared passion/belief that physiotherapy works.

We consider ourselves to be leaders in the industry, as well as offering a unique service. NCPP offers the full journey from treatment, rehabilitation to full health, wellness and beyond. All of the staff share passion and belief that physiotherapy works and pilates is for all.

Our tag line is: Move Well. Live Well and we aspire to live up to it!

We oﬀer physiotherapy, sports massage, well-woman services (including post natal checks) group and one-to-one matwork and reformer physio-led pilates sessions.

For more information visit: www.northcoastpilates.co.uk

Our chartered physiotherapists are highly skilled in assessing and treating musculoskeletal, orthopaedic and sports injuries. We can offer treatments such as acupuncture (including dry needling). Electrotherapy (ultrasound & electroacupuncture), TECARtherapy, percussion therapy, cupping, Myofascial release, joint mobilisation, manipulation, massage, sports massage and individualised rehabilitation exercises. We can provide valuable advice on how to manage a condition or help speed up the recovery of an injury. We also have two unique trademarked services: Well Mum™ is a comprehensive post natal assessment provided by specialist women’s health physiotherapists. It includes a pelvic floor assessment, posture and tummy muscles, which addresses any ongoing pelvic/back pain, postural problems, post natal incontinence, tummy gaps and scars. Well Scar Therapy™ is a specialist treatment by experienced scar specialist physiotherapists that can help with pain, itching, numbness, redness, overhang, pinching, tightness, thickening or a raised appearance of any scar. We have the latest technology with state-of-the-art scar therapy modalities, lymphatouch and winback TECARtherapy. Our matwork pilates sessions, based on the mat, follow a repertoire of APPI Pilates method exercises. Benefits include improved mobility, body/postural awareness as well as strengthening and toning all parts of the body. The Reformer creates a unique and varied exercise environment and offers all the famous benefits of pilates including overall strength, flexibility, coordination and balance. For those not able to attend for any reason, we have our NCPP on-demand video subscription channel. It offers a huge choice of full length pilates classes, short sessions, challenges, HIT cardio pilates, barre, reformer on the mat, mobility, children’s classes and master classes.

N O R T H C O A S T P I L AT E S & PHYSIOTHERAPY

Move Well. Live Well.

WELL MUM™ Specialist Physiotherapy Post Natal Assessment & Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

Leading provider of Physiotherapy & Physiotherapist led Pilates in the Coleraine and North Coast Area.

WELL SCAR THERAPY™ A Specialist treatment that can help with pain, itching, numbness, redness, overhang, pinching, tightness or a raised appearance.

11 Somerset Road, Coleraine BT51 3LL tel: 028 7032 1477 Email: info@northcoastpilates.co.uk www.northcoastpilates.co.uk

SPECSAVERS NORTHERN IRELAND HOME VISITS TEAM BRING EYECARE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT

Can’t get to your local Specsavers store? Don’t worry, you can request an eye test at home through two Specsavers Home Visits teams which operate across Northern Ireland.

Alan Myers, Allison Maternaghan, Graham Hanna, Matthew Brennan and their teams cover every county in Northern Ireland, operating out of their hubs in Belfast and Ballymena, but reaching every town and village that might need them. Specsavers Home Visits offers comprehensive eye tests in the homes and care homes of people who are unable to leave their house unaccompanied due to a physical or mental illness or disability. Eye tests undertaken at home by one of the Specsavers Home Visits team are very similar to the ones you would experience in-store, with just a few adjustments and specialist equipment to make them home-friendly. All Northern Ireland Specsavers Home Visits opticians are fully experienced and qualified to conduct eye tests at home and if they detect any symptoms that indicate a more serious condition, they may refer you to your GP or local hospital for further examination. Alan Myers, Director of the Ballymena Specsavers Home Visits team, which covers counties Antrim, Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh, said that it is a huge privilege to provide these services to their customers. “We operate a hugely important service here in Northern Ireland as there are many people who cannot get to a store or their local practitioner to receive healthcare. Not only are we visiting thousands of people at home, we are also ensuring the sight of customers who live in care homes is being cared for, and we have been a part of many wonderful peoples’ lives, helping them with the care they need to live better lives.” Graham Hanna, Director of the Belfast Specsavers Home Visits hub which also covers parts of County Antrim, alongside Counties Tyrone, Armagh and Down, added, “Not only are we being welcomed into our customers’ homes, but we’re also engaging with so many people throughout the community, attending fundraisers and supporting where we can. We engage with carers to ensure they know this is a service available for their loved ones, and we are privileged to spend time with older and more vulnerable people who could be experiencing loneliness and isolation. We are very passionate about supporting our local community by providing this very necessary service.”

To request an eye test at home, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/home-eye-tests and to learn more about the services available.

No Waiting List Private Dermatology At Marlborough Clinic Belfast we have a dedicated team of consultant dermatologists who offer an extensive range of treatments, with a focus on delivering the best care. All our dermatologists are registered with the UK General Medical Council and have undertaken many years of training. They also practise as consultants in dermatology hospital units in Northern Ireland. You can expect the highest standards of diagnosis, treatment and aftercare. Our team prides themselves on providing a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and management of skin conditions. Common skin conditions treated include acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, children’s dermatology and skin cancers. Our team understands the concerns and impact of skin conditions and takes every care to make you feel at ease.

Dr Julia Tolland

FRCP UK, MD, CCST Dermatology, MB, BCh, BAO, BSc Medical Genetics

Our treatments include:

Acne Rosacea Psoriasis Hidradenitis Supporativa Skin lesions/rashes/infections Skin cancer Mole checks Biopsies and minor excisions Birth marks Paediatric dermatology Genital skin disease To book a new appointment with a Consultant Dermatologist, contact our welcome team on 028 9002 2000 info@marlboroughclinicbelfast.com

1 Marlborough Park, Belfast, BT9 6XS www.marlboroughclinicbelfast.com

A STATE-OF-THE-ART AESTHETIC AND SKIN CLINIC LOCATED IN THE LEAFY SUBURBS OF BT8

Our skin expert Kelly performing Hydrafacial.

Welcome to Vermilion Cosmetic Clinic, our state-ofthe-art clinic opened in 2018 by registered nurse prescriber Donnamarie McGrillen. The clinic boasts a marriage of aesthetics and patient satisfaction, bringing FDA-approved skin and injectable treatments to our patients. Vermilion remains at the forefront of the industry by offering an unrivalled service with a track record of superior results alongside glowing testimonials. What sets us apart in maintaining and growing our clinic is investment and innovation within the aesthetic industry. With excellence being at the heart of everything we do, our medical-led team delivers more than just a service; Vermilion Clinic is a premium experience. The safety profile of our cutting-edge treatments, combined with the knowledge and skill set of our medical-led team, means you can feel confident that you are in safe, experienced hands from the moment you step into our clinic. Our luxury interior-designed clinic is the first to focus on helping patients manage their skin smyptoms during the perimenopause and menopause, with a new dedicated skin menu being released later this month. The clinic is known for the use of natural injectables alongside advanced skin treatments such as Microneedling, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), Environ Medical Facials and the award-winning HydraFacial. Book your consultation today with our specialist team, one that you can rely on. Please QUOTE Ulster Tatler and receive your complimentary consultation. Donnamarie McGrillen, registered nurse.

2 Mount Oriel, Saintfield Road Belfast BT8 7HR Email: vermilioncosmeticclinic@yahoo.com Phone: 07518 178305

Hemphill & Salmon Miss Nicola Hemphill, daughter of James and Alison Hemphill, from Drumquin, recently married Tomás Salmon, son of Thomas and Eileen Salmon. The wedding took place on 14th June 2024 at Trinity Presbyterian, followed by a reception at Killyhevlin Hotel. Nicola wore beautiful gown from White House Bridal, while Tomás wore a suit from Louis Copeland menswear. Photography by Jervis Wedding Photography.

Love in Every Season... Elegant Civil Ceremonies | Private Pre-Reception Suite Opulent Draped Banqueting Suite | Luxurious Honeymoon Suite 4am Complimentary Bar Extension | Stunning Picture Opportunities

www.4seasonshotel.ie | +353 (0)47 81 888 | weddings@4seasonshotel.ie

Society Weddings

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CONFERENCE & LEISURE CENTRE

en Hen

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COMPETITION RULES Readers are asked to note that the ﬁrst entry (or entries drawn after the closing date) will be the winner(s). The Editor’s decision is ﬁnal and no correspondence will be entered into. There can be no cash alternative. The winner may be asked to take part in publicity. Prize is not transferrable. Staff and their families of Ulster Tatler Group and the organisation donating the prize(s) are not eligible to enter. Please note that supplying competition prizes to named winners is the sole responsibility of the company offering them and not Ulster Tatler Group.

1 NIGHT ACCOMMODATION IN TRIPLE BEDROOMS EVENING MEAL WITH PERSONALISED SOUVENIR MENU FULL IRISH BREAKFAST TO START YOUR DAY GLASS OF BUBBLY ON ARRIVAL GIFT FOR THE BRIDE TO BE COMPLIMENTARY USE OF OUR LEISURE FACILITIES

According to recent independent Research by Ulster Marketing Surveys, the Ulster Tatler has by far the largest readership of any Northern Ireland magazine.

WI-FI ACCESS THROUGHOUT THE HOTEL Make a full weekend of it and add a second night for an extra €50pps Live Music from Top Cover Bands every Weekend

Please contact Reservations for more information: T: 00353 (0) 749721014 E: reservations@abbeyhoteldonegal.com W: www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com | www.centralhoteldonegal.com

OUR HOUSE | YOUR HOME

Corick Country House Hotel is a gorgeous, family-owned 17th century country house wedding venue that truly makes the most of the Northern Irish countryside. Surrounded by three acres of gardens and the rolling hills and woods of the Clogher Valley, this venue is an oasis of comfort, warmth and tranquillity. With award-winning food, a stunning location and outstanding service, this is an ideal country house wedding venue for couples who don’t want to worry about a thing. www.corickcountryhouse.com

028 8554 8216 86

weddings@corickcountryhouse.com

Nestled in the rolling drumlins of County Down, the family-owned Georgian House and Victorian courtyard is surrounded by mature private grounds and gardens providing a stunning rural backdrop. Exclusively hosting one wedding per day, the team at Tullyveery House is devoted to helping create the perfect day for you and your guests with non-stop wow factors around every corner.

Open Day & Wedding Fair Sunday 1st September 1pm-4pm

Free Entry, Free Parking

Over 30 local wedding suppliers

Official opening of our brand new Orchard Garden, which provides an outdoor covered ceremony & reception area. Tullyveery House, 7 Ardigon Road, Killyleagh, Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 9TA www.tullyveeryhouse.co.uk 028 4482 8226

THE HARPERS WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Karolina Harper.

ADVERTORIAL

“I’m an English teacher who, eight years ago, decided to follow my dream of becoming a professional photographer. At the start of my career I concentrated mainly on newborn and family portraits, but decided it was the weddings that my heart was in, as they allowed me to be more creative. I am a super-chilled and easy-going person, yet when it comes to creating the images, I’m very passionate and creative – I never do exactly the same session twice. I strongly

believe in empowering other women and creating a community where women lift each other up. My favourite saying is ‘in a society that profits from your self doubt, liking yourself is a rebellious act’. I feel my mission is to prove to the women who stand in front of my camera that they are worthy of everything and they’re beautiful, inside and out. I have decided to open a studio in Ballymoney, which is a versatile space where I’ll be running mindfulness and

creative workshops. It is called ‘Ayni’ creative and well-being studio. Ayni means: today for you, tomorrow for me. I stepped into my own spiritual journey a few years ago, which has not only allowed me to find peace and support others on their journey, but to capture even more of the essence of my models. Photography is my biggest love, empowering women is my true passion – when I combine these two I am in a flow state, it is effortless.”

WWW.THEHARPERSWEDDING.COM E: harpersbookings@gmail.com T: 078 77800335 @theharperswedding

Graham & Lowry Miss Amy Graham and Paul Lowry were recently married on 17th June 2024 at Millbrook Lodge Hotel. Bridesmaids included Becky Shearer, Sophie Warwick, Emma Foy and Emer Lowry, with Annabelle Shearer as flowergirl. Groomsmen included Sean O’Reilly, Gavin Montgomery, Ethan Montgomery, Marc Montgomery, Kyle Graham and page boys; Max Graham, Theodore Shearer and Milo Graham. Photography by Iain Irwin Photography.

Summer Spa Retreat Slip away to The Johnstown Estate for a lavish mid-week spa break. Enjoy a relaxing Rooftop and Indoor Thermal Experience, indulge in a luxury spa treatment and spend time enjoying the pleasures of your deluxe bedroom. By night, relax over dinner in The Coach House Brasserie.

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Sandra’s Nursery Corner is one of Belfast’s longest running independent nursery stores, family-owned and running for over 40 years, helping the needs of Belfast and beyond. Since their doors first opened they have offered ‘Sandra’s Baby Club’, this has allowed customers to hold items over with a 20% deposit until their baby arrives. Personalised bundles are created in store by giving parents honest advice on the products available for their lifestyle. Stocking a wide range of nursery products in store and offering some the top brands such as Venicci, Baby Style, Egg, Noordi, Cosatto, Mybabiie, Bébécar and many more. The store is located on the Shore Road, across from Crusaders football grounds, with on-street parking available. Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday.

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“The Ulster Tatler Influential Women of the Year 2024 took place in the Ulster Reform Club on Saturday 8th June. The purpose of the event was to recognise and highlight some of the exceptional women that we have in Northern Ireland. All of the nominees are very worthy individuals, especially our Influential Woman of the Year 2024, Rose Neill, who is a truly inspirational person. Roll on next year!”

Chris Sherry, editor, Ulster Tatler

INFLUENTIAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Rose Neill

“Our 2024 Influential Woman of the Year recipient has been a constant presence on our screens for almost fifty years. Her broadcasting career started in 1977 at UTV as an announcer and news presenter. Aside from her news commitments, while at the BBC she devised, wrote and presented several medical TV documentaries and light entertainment programmes, including healthy lifestlye programmes. Her charity work has involved being honorary vice-patron of Cancer FocusNI, a member of the NI Mother and Baby Appeal and a volunteer for SSAFA, to name but a few. TV is a tough industry, where she works tirelessly and professionally in a demanding work environment; she is by far Northern Ireland’s longest-standing news anchor.”

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The judges felt that this entrepreneur took a leap of faith to fulfil her dreams and created a unique, bespoke hotel that stands out from the rest. SPONSORED BY

Rebecca McKinney, Charlotte Dixon and Mary Maxwell.

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OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO HEALTH Dr Aisling Gough The judges felt that this woman has filled a much needed gap in the menopausal health sector. SPONSORED BY

Rebecca McKinney, Dr Aisling Gough and Amanda Mitchell.

WOMAN WHO HAS OVERCOME ADVERSTIY Amy Doherty The judges felt that this woman turned adversity into a career by helping others. She is a passionate voice for the National Autistic Society, successfully raising awareness. SPONSORED BY Rebecca McKinney, Miss NI Hannah Johns (on behalf of Amy Doherty) and Therese Hughes.

ULSTER TATLER INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF THE YEAR

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Charlotte Dixon

ULSTER TATLER INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF THE YEAR

CONTRIBUTION TO BEAUTY Bridgeen King The judges felt that this woman stands as a beacon of excellence in her industry; she is dedicated to inclusivity and a real jewel in the crown. SPONSORED BY

Elizabeth Sands

Rebecca McKinney, Bridgeen King and Elizabeth Sands.

BEAUTY SCHOOL

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Businesswoman of the Year

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Elizabeth Sands, the current Businesswoman of the Year is owner of the Elizabeth Sands Beauty School, a renowned academy in the beauty industry which continues to set the standard for excellence in education and training. With an impressive track record of success, the multiaward-winning institution has received accolades for its commitment to quality education and has garnered over 800 5-star reviews from satisfied students. Boasting a comprehensive range of face-to-face and online courses, the school has established itself as a go-to destination for aspiring beauty professionals across the UK. It is partnered with many organisations across the UK, their most recent partnership being the Make A Wish Foundation for critically ill children.

As one of the leading beauty schools in the region, it has launched over 18,100 new beauty careers since 2020 — equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive beauty industry. With a focus on practical, hands-on training, students gain real-world experience under the guidance of industry experts. One of the distinguishing features of the Beauty School is its award-winning online training platform. Students benefit from blended learning with tutor support ensuring a supportive learning environment and the opportunity for individualised feedback. Elizabeth Sands Beauty School offers a diverse selection of over 50 online accredited courses. These courses provide flexible learning options for students UK wide, allowing them to study at their own pace and convenience. Whether you’re looking to acquire new skills or enhance your existing expertise, the online courses deliver high-quality content that is both comprehensive and engaging. Aspiring beauty professionals who choose Elizabeth Sands Beauty School can be confident in the quality of their education. The institution is fully accredited and recognised within the industry with the ABT and CPD Accreditation Group, ensuring that graduates receive certifications that are valued and respected. This accreditation not only validates the credibility of the school but also enhances the employability of its graduates. Elizabeth Sands remains committed to providing exceptional education and empowering individuals to pursue their passion for beauty. Her motto ‘By Building People You Build Your Business’ and a commitment to all-inclusive learning has cemented the school’s award-winning reputation, outstanding reviews, and comprehensive range of training options. It’s no wonder the beauty school continues to be a top choice for aspiring beauty professionals across the UK.

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“When I knew I was going to become a licensee for billionaire Grant Cardone, I wanted to open a company to help make a difference to many people’s lives; that is how Ignite Empire was born. As Grant Cardone’s first and only female licensee throughout Ireland and the UK, I am extremely proud of my achievement and I want to be a role model to anyone who feels that goals like this are impossible. As a licensee I have access to his unique, worldclass and exclusive information. I connect Ireland and the UK to Miami, creating opportunities to collaborate and develop business plans. We offer business coaching, mentoring and workshops to help businesses improve performance and achieve their goals. We also provide one-to-one coaching sessions to help business owners and executives develop their leadership skills. We tailor our services to meet the specific needs and goals of each business, providing personalised strategies and solutions. My clients are both male and female and I believe everyone will benefit from what I have to offer. My favourite part of what I do is connecting with people who see a potential in themselves and believe it can come true. I love being a part of their journey and being able to help them make it happen. As a mother of four and everything that comes with that, I can overcome every obstacle and prove that you can become anything you want to be. The biggest push for me is my kids watching me, they are so proud of what I am doing. My son said somethng to me that keeps me going, he said: “The world is waiting on someone like you”. I grew up during the Troubles in an environment that wasn’t designed to allow people to thrive, but I beat the odds.”

16th-17th August 2024 JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa This August I will be bringing businesswomen over to Miami to Elena Cardone’s 10X Ladies event − I am the first person in Ireland to provide this opportunity. This is not your average female empowerment conference; at the two-day event, not only will you be able to connect with like-minded women from all over the world, but you will also learn what it truly means to achieve success as a woman in the 21st century. They dive deep into business, finance, mindset, purpose and relationships. They keep their guest speakers a surprise, but their revolutionary ladies last year included Megyn Kelly and Venus Williams. At 10X Ladies they bring a world of women together, from single mothers looking to start their first company, to hyper-successful women who build multi-million pound businesses. The point of the conference is not only to expand your mindset, but to guide powerful women to reach their full potential. If you are interested in attending the 10X Ladies event you can email me at: marym@grantcardoneteam.com

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...And our wonderful new addition: Heel Within Holistic Therapy Over the last three years, Lisa’s business has gone from strength to strength, getting to the point of allowing her to achieve her dream of opening up her very own salon. She has put her heart and soul into transforming her new salon into a beautiful place of peace and healing. Overlooking the back garden, the tranquil surroundings are the perfect place for meditation sessions designed to improve wellness and general health. An extensive variety of other treatments is also available, such as massage, reiki, reflexology and aromatherapy, just to name a few! Check out her Booksy for the full treatment list – heelwithintherapy.booksy.com Don’t just take our word for it though, or her many many 5-star reviews; Lisa also recently won the Business Excellence Award for Health and Wellbeing. So don’t struggle on with your pain, whether physical or emotional, get in contact with Heel Within Holistic Therapy and see what she can do for you. 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus BT38 7DP l 07725862565

PROMOTIONAL PROFILE

IF YOU CAN SEE IT IN YOUR MIND...

Ulster Tatler speaks to high performance mentor and CEO of Dynamite Lifestyle, Kim Calvert. 114

...YOU WILL HOLD IT IN YOUR HAND Where did you grow up in NI - are there any specific memories from your childhood that stand out and shaped who you are today? I grew up in Lurgan, this is where I was born and where I lived right up until I left for university. One of the key people in my life is my dad. My dad was uneducated; he went briefly to school, he didn’t really go through high school and all of the usual things but my dad was an entrepreneur - we had a family business. For me, the main thing was watching my dad run and grow a very successful business. That is definitely where I picked up my entrepreneurial spirit. I always heard my dad saying key phrases like ‘all things are possible’ and he would always quote a Bible verse to me: that all things are possible to those that love the Lord. For me I really understood that all things are possible. We were just a normal family, my dad was by no means earning millions, not even close, but he was successful in his own right. He was able to build a business very uniquely and he was always about serving his clients, making unique things for his clients’ experience. I didn’t have many friends as a child as I spent a lot of time in my dad’s shop, I went there after school, I was there all of the time. I grew up in a business and whilst I wasn’t working, I was being brought into that environment and seeing the work ethic, seeing the desire, the goal and the mission. One of the key lessons I got from my family, from my upbringing was that when you do not have resources you become resourceful. So I spent a lot of time on my own but it meant I was spending time within my mind, being creative, instead of watching TV, on computer games, or out in parks with other young people filling my mind with stuff that wouldn’t serve me. My mind was wide open and I was becoming creative; that has served me through the years. I absolutely did not enjoy school whatsoever. I didn’t hate school, I didn’t come home crying every day, I was not bullied, I had a pleasant experience of school but where I struggled was with the school work. I absolutely do not classify myself as an academic person. I did get my GCSEs, I did go to college to get ‘A’ Levels and I did go to Queen’s University, but to get to that point I had to take the extra classes after school because I had difficulty reading and understanding words. You went into mental health nursing, how did you get into this career? I always knew from a young age that I wanted to help people. I have always known from when I was very tiny that I have a unique ability to connect with people in a very heart-to-heart way, to feel someone rather than just connect on a conscious level, so I knew I wanted to help people. I actually started in general nursing, I didn’t even know what mental health was, I had never come across mental health - I am so grateful for that. It was almost a non-talked about subject, which I feel is still the case for many people

today, unfortunately. Starting in general nursing I very quickly realised I was not cut out for that. Going into hospitals was challenging for me, it was fast-paced, I felt that in general in nursing there wasn’t enough patient-centred care, it was more about how quickly you can get things done. Again that is not a negative reflection on anyone but unfortunately just the system that we live in; hospitals are under-staffed. I was sent on a mental health nursing placement, which I experienced for three weeks and I loved it. It was in a psychiatric hospital and instead of running around doing physical jobs you were sitting talking to people, you were actively listening to understand, taking the time to hear people’s stories, people’s pains, share hope and give life back to people – that just clicked with me right away. That made the decision for me to move into mental health nursing, rather than general. Being a mental health nurse was a huge part of my journey, I am so grateful for that part of my life but I soon realised there was more potential in me, more ability for me to serve in a bigger way. That is now why I do what I do, helping and serving people in a much more expanded way, making a bigger difference, not just with a select group of people. What was the turning point in your life that made you decide to explore a new path? I will keep it short. At the age of 28 I was noticing that I had hit the peak of my career and in my opinion I wasn’t getting paid for what I was putting out – I was sometimes earning below £2,000 a month. I soon realised there was not much more growth for me, I didn’t have the money that everyone said you get when you have a good career – I was struggling financially, I was broken mentally and spiritually. I thought I was stupid, ugly, unloveable – not worthy and not good enough. Everyone would say I was very successful but I did not feel successful. That turning point was in my own mind. I thought there needed to be more to life. I had done exactly what I was told: get a good education, work hard, but it wasn’t working. My personal life was a mess, my professional life wasn’t working - I realised something had to change. You enrolled onto a Bob Proctor course to learn about high elite mentorship, how instrumental was he in your career? I was thinking about how my life wasn’t where I wanted it to be. I didn’t want to tell people, because there are other people who are worse off, who am I to complain, I have got a good government job. There was almost a piece of guilt for wanting more in life because the usual feedback from people is ‘be grateful for what you have’. I am absolutely grateful but I will never be content, our whole purpose on this planet is for growth and expansion; I know that now but I didn’t know that then. I couldn’t deny the feeling of wanting more. So as I was running on the treadmill, I was listening to motivational

W: DYNAMITELIFESTYLE.COM

videos on youtube and flicking through videos when Bob Proctor came on the screen. I realised this man was not motivational - as a mental health nurse I had awareness of having a positive mindset but I didn’t really believe it until I heard Bob, who passed away in 2022; this was the only person on the planet left who was teaching the actual principles and science of success – it is not motivation, motivation is shortlived, he was teaching how to draw inspiration from within and that really appealed to me. I had an understanding that your mind is a huge part of your reality, so this really intrigued me and as soon as I heard Bob’s voice I knew that was it. I didn’t know him, I didn’t know what it entailed but I knew this was my calling, this was my purpose. I got in contact with this company in Canada, I had no idea what it did and I spent some time speaking to them. They asked me if I had a goal; I had never even thought about, even though I was 28 I had never thought about setting and achieving goals. That was the first time in my life I had ever stopped to think and you would be surprised how many people don’t stop to think. I started bringing that child out of me: what could I create? What could be possible? It was about possibilities instead of limitations. They said yes, we can train you, we have a full training programme, you can come and work with us and then you can go out and teach people. They train you to be a mentor and that was it, I knew I was ready to go out. I had to invest over £25,000 and I had £4.20, but I had said yes on that phone. I didn’t go and ask anyone’s opinion and if I told my parents I was thinking about leaving nursing there would have been an intervention at the Sunday dinner table. I didn’t ask my friends, I didn’t speak to anybody. I just said yes because I realised my way wasn’t working, I wasn’t happy. I had no idea where the money was going to come from. So all these things built up to this pinnacle moment. I decided to hand in my notice at nursing, I think everyone thought I had lost my mind, I had no idea how I was going to earn a living, but I had faith I knew I was going to do this; that was an intuitive feeling. If worse came to worse, I could always get another job, that was just my mentality. I believed that having Bob as a mentor would guide me and give the power, support, tools and understanding. Don’t get me wrong, that terrified me, I had no business experience, who was I to start a business?. I had never had sales training or speaking training, I was starting with a blank slate. My heart and my passion in life was to serve other people when I started to understand the mind. I chose Bob as a mentor as he was teaching the raw science of how everything in this universe operates. He taught me how my mind works. Even though I had spent 10 years in mental health nursing, I had never learnt about the conscious, the sub-conscious, how we operate as a person, what our self image is, how our habits and beliefs are formed.

E: INFO@DYNAMITELIFESTYLE.COM

themselves out loud and what goes on in their mind you would be blown away. We are so negative to ourselves, our inner dialogue is so negative, that is really what holds us back. Every single human being on this planet toady has infinite potential, we have no idea what we are capable of, we are not even tapping into it. Do you have a specific quote or mantra that you live by? See it in your mind and you will hold it in your hand. Your thoughts become your reality. That is absolutely true for everyone.

The biggest lesson was to discover who I really am, discover how the mind works so that I could start to create my own reality. How to earn money and even just how to treat people, he taught me how to have a positive mental attitude and our attitude to life is life’s attitude to us. We live in a world where we have never needed to understand this. We have got to start to love people, love is the key. Money is not the be all and end all, it is important, but you are the master and money is the servant. He taught me these life principles which changed my life dramatically. As a mentor and entrepreneur what do you love most about what you do? I love what I do, I wake up every morning excited and enthusiastic, I use the word enthusiastic as it comes from a Latin word which means ‘from within’. I live my life with purpose every day. As a mentor my favourite part about of what I do is sharing these universal principles with my clients. I now work with people in over 163 countries all over the world; my goal, my mission in life is to help people waken up, one thought at a time. Purpose is expressed in a vision, then you set a goal. My vision with Dynamite Lifestyle is to impact one-hundred-million people to get what we call The Source, which is our personal development app which is the first of its kind in the entire industry and this is a £50billion industry. Here at Dynamite Lifestyle we designed and built from scratch the first ever app that is your one-stopshop for all things, personal and professional development, and my end goal is to get that into everyone’s hand and in every home in the entire world. It is free, you can upgrade and pay, but my goal is to get this information to everyone. Everyone deserves to know who they are and how to create a life of freedom, so as a mentor my favourite thing is working with my clients. Being an entrepreneur is the best thing. I would be pretty hopeless as an employee because that boxes you in, whereas now I have created freedom. I have the ability to travel all over the world, speak to people all over the world and

grow a business that has a purpose. What is your top pieces of advice for anyone who is at a crossroads in their life? You can answer this two ways. I honestly believe most people don’t realise they have been at a crossroads for a long time. A lot of people are continuing to just spin the wheels, almost don’t have time to come up for air. I am sharing this because there will be people reading this and they just keep going, but the most important thing to do when you are at a crossroads is to just stop, to think and to plan. Another important thing to do: don’t look at the crossroads and feel that you are lost. Everything that is lost can be found, we live in a world of polarity, there is always enough. When you are at a crossroads you’ve got options, you’ve got choices. We live in a society where we believe that we don’t have a choice — this is just how it is, this is just where I was born into - that is not true. Everybody has the power to change, everybody wants to change, but I believe everybody, deep down, doesn’t know how they have been conditioned. They believe this is just how it is going to be. I think people are afraid of stopping because they would have to face a lot of things. Fear is the biggest thing holding people back, sometimes we just keep going keep our head down and when we do stop to think, we are conditioned to think negatively. Don’t think of your limitations, don’t think of all the reasons why it can’t happen, think about why it can happen. Get a mentor, not necessarily me, but if I resonate with you, that is great. It is not about me but you can’t do this alone because the truth is, if you could, you would have done it. Everybody knows they want to be healthier but what we do is a different matter and this is what causes problems; we are not in the habit of making changes, so this is why getting a mentor and seeking out a like-minded community is paramount to your success. Do you feel that people put limits on their capabilities? If people said what they really think about 116

What are your plans for the next few years ahead? To continue to expand. I have one mission in this life and that is to waken people up, one thought at a time. I do that through the vehicle of my companies, Dynamite Lifestyle, Dynamite Digital and Dynamite with Elegance. I now train people as Bob trained me. I became Bob Proctor’s number one global consultant, I have won every award, I broke every record, I have done tens of millions in business and I have impacted hundreds of thousands of people. I started out with Bob who didn’t even know I existed, but in a very short period of time I became his number one in the entire world - a girl from Lurgan, in the tiny province of Northern Ireland, and he had maybe 8,000 people under him. I became the number one, faster than anyone and in a much bigger way than anyone. I don’t say that to impress you but to impress upon you, that if I can do it, you can do it. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time, when you get it? I have all the time in the world. Time is a bit of an illusion and I have the most beautiful, wonderful life. I love my work, my clients, we put on big events. In Northern Ireland we have one coming up, ‘Inception’, in September 2024 in Titanic. We will bring people from every corner of the earth to Belfast. I had a strong desire to stay here and make an impact here. I love spending my time in work. I love travelling, spending time in the garden and spending time with my two dogs. I always talk to my dogs and when I was broke I said to them: one day you are going to have a big garden to play in. So now I love going out and playing with the dogs; spending time with people I love; going out with family and my team.

You can see Kim in action at her ‘Inception’ event at Titanic Belfast in September - the biggest Personal Development event in the UK, with people flying in from the US to attend! For more information visit: https://source. dynamitelifestyle.com/the-source/the-press

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MND heroes and Lady Mary’s Trust raise the bar with launch of joint fundraiser Inspired by former British indoor champion high-jumper Debbie Marrs and World Police and Fire Games director Raymond Hill, Lady Mary Peters and her Trust have teamed up with the Motor Neurone Disease Association NI to host a special Gala Dinner event to raise much needed funds for both charities. The reception, dinner and auction, including guest speakers and musical performances, will take place on Thursday 17th October 2024 at the stylish Magheramorne Estate near Larne. Both Debbie and Raymond are living with MND and are part of the organising team, putting together the charity bash alongside Jane Allen and her family who own and operate the magniﬁcent wedding and event complex, together with Lady Mary and representatives from the Mary Peters Trust. A former Mary Peters Trust athlete and the 1988 British Indoor High Jump Champion, Debbie Marrs has in recent years been diagnosed with MND. Last December (2023), alongside family, friends, neighbours and colleagues she raised £8,500 by completing an indoor ‘triathlon’ at Holywood’s Bannatyne Health Club.

Pictured at the launch l-r are Debbie Marrs, Jane Allen (Magheramorne Estate), Lady Mary Peters, Sarah Allen (Magheramorne Estate) and Raymond Hill.

‘I’m excited to be involved in creating this new event which will further raise the profile of motor neurone disease in Northern Ireland and additionally generate funds to support people like myself and our families as we navigate the impact of MND and pave the way for a better future for all. Both my daughter Megan and I have benefitted from Mary Peters Trust funding and I’m thrilled that half of all money raised will be equally divided between these wonderful charities.” Larne local Raymond Hill has been involved in sport all his life and during his 31 years with the NI Prison Service was an integral part of its Sports Association. He was a key player in bringing the World Police & Fire Games extravaganza to Northern Ireland in 2013. “I first met Lady Mary back in 2005 when we began work on the WPFG bid. Post 2013 we’ve remained good friends and have continued to support the international WPFG Board. Our WPFG 10-year reunion event in August 2023 generated funds for the MNDA NI branch and I’m delighted to continue this collaboration with Mary by raising even more money for Motor Neurone Disease in October.” Now a committee member with the NI branch of Motor Neurone Disease Association, Raymond was diagnosed with the condition in May 2021 and is pushing to raise the profile of MND as well as taking part in ongoing research, vital to ultimately help find a cure. Raymond is currently involved in clinical trials at hospitals in Dublin and Craigavon and says, “It’s all about striving to find a cure and I’m happy to give something back to the MND community by taking part in ongoing research.

programmes. These include regional roadshows, carers’ days and afternoon tea events which enable people affected by MND, their carers and families to get together and share information and tips on where they can source help, positive support, grants and specialist equipment. Lady Mary Peters says, “Sport promotes good health and wellbeing which is so important for those with a disability. Therefore, there is a natural synergy between our two charities and I’m really pleased that the Mary Peters Trust and Motor Neurone Disease Association NI are coming together for this standout gala event in the beautiful surroundings of Magheramorne Estate. “Similar to MNDA NI, funds raised for the Mary Peters Trust will impact local people, providing funds for young athletes to source the best facilities and coaching to reach their goals and potentially bring back medals to Northern Ireland. “It’s wonderful to be organising our reception and dinner with Raymond and Debbie − fantastic people who are a real inspiration to us all. We are also very grateful to Jane and her team at Magheramorne for providing the venue on a complimentary basis and assisting us in bringing the whole event together. We’re hoping to have a full house on October 17.” Tickets for the gala dinner and event cost £65 each or £600 for a table of ten. To book contact Gillian Hetherington at the Mary Peters Trust; gillian@marypeterstrust.org

“Our Magheramorne Estate event will raise more awareness of MND, generate funds to continue with important research as well as support for all connected to and impacted by MND.” Monies raised for MND will support specialist nurses, provide research bursaries to universities, and support a range of NI

59 Shore Road, Magheramorne, Larne BT40 3HW | T: 028 9538 0895 | magheramorneestate.com 118

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Guests at the Lieutenancy DDay reception applaud The Lord Lieutenant’s cadets.

Dame Fionnuala chats with US Consul General James Applegate.

80TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY CELEBRATION

The Vice Lord Lieutenant Dr Alan Logan DL and Mrs Susan Logan.

Stephen Coney, Thomas Dillon, Michael Dooris and Liam Fegan from Options Technology.

Brigadier Mike Murdoch (retd), CEO of RFCANI with The Lord Lieutenant’s cadets, Joseph Metcalfe, Oscar Davidson and Carter McKee.

HM Lord Lieutenant for Belfast, Dame Fionnuala Jay-O’Boyle DBE DStJ DDL and The Belfast Lieutenancy hosted a reception in the historic surroundings of Campbell College for the civic and diplomatic communities to mark the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. The guest of honour was WW2 Veteran Major Victor Clarke, who at 100years-old gave an outstanding speech on his memories of the day.

Professor Alastair Adair CBE DL, Major Philip Morrison MBE and Major Victor Clarke TD KStJ.

Ethan Boylan, Ross Stevenson, Joe Sowerby and Adrian Harrison from Ethan Boylan, Ross Stevenson, Joe Van Rath. Sowerby and Adrian Harrison from Vanrath.

Dame Fionnuala with Major Victor Clarke.

Daithi Sands, Ciaran Liddy, Jack Bohill and Matt Hughes from Options Technology.

BUSINESS FOURS, BELFAST The NI leg of Business Fours corporate charity golf events took place at the stunning Belvoir Park Golf Club last month. It was a fantastic day as fourballs took to the course in support of their companies’ chosen charity. Congratulations to our new champions, Vanrath, who won a £500 donation to Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. Leah Curran and Liam Fagan from Options Technology and Ethan Boylan of Vanrath took home the individual awards on the day. For more information on our charity corporate golf, football or touch rugby events contact Chris@BusinessFives.com.

Jack McAllister, Chay Hogarty, Carl Elliott and Adam Louden from Brett Martin and Befab Ltd.

Business 4’s Business Development Manager Chris Donnelly, John Hamilton, Matthew Martin, Patrick Murray and Business 4’s MD John McClarey. 120

Leah Curran, Molly Clarke, Chris Donnelly and Nikki McBurney.

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Jude Cowley-Glass and Hayley Knowles.

Ronan Slane, Naphas McCormack, Christopher Benson and Charlie Boyle.

UU LAW SOCIETY FORMAL On Friday 31st May, Ulster University Law Sociey held their annual Law Ball at the Titanic Exhibition Centre. The event was sponsored by Factor and began at 6pm with a drinks reception, followed by dinner and ending with an awards presentation and entertainment.

Brigid McDonagh with Martin and Eileen McDonagh.

Ellis Taylor, James O’Hare and Katie McKenzie.

Siobhan Buckley, Connor McClurgh and Gillian Kane.

Joshua Miskimmon, Caitlyn Murphy and Conan Hinds.

Mariella Vildoso, Zuzanna Trawinska, Olivia Magorrian and Mia Murtagh.

Red McKinney, Rosie Moody, Ryan Gibson and Cassie Armstrong. 122

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

UlsterTatler

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! r e m m u S With summer holidays in full swing, this is the perfect time of year to get out and about, to try new restaurants and take a break away with friends and family. Damp days haven’t been able to spoil the spirit as plenty of summer events have been taking place across the country – take a look through this feature to be inspired for the months ahead.

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

George Fegan, Captain Michael Ewings and Jim Maguire.

Mark, Michael Jnr, Colette, Michael, Emma and Stephen Ewings.

Paul McKee, David Doherty, Mark Peden, Captain Michael Ewings and Terry Gilmore.

Ladies’ Captain Colette Ewings and Men’s Captain Michael Ewings.

Club Pro Lee McKenna and Club Captain Michael Ewings.

Michael Ewings and Conor McManus, winner of Mr Michael Ewings Captain’s Day.

Peter McMahon, Frank Bradley, Captain Michael Ewings, Tom Mulligan.

BALMORAL CAPTAIN’S DAY

John Turkington, Captain Michael Ewings, Pat Turkington.

The first main event of 2024 golf season, Mr Michael Ewing’s Captain’s Day, took place at Balmoral Golf Club on Saturday 15th June. Blessed with fine weather, over two hundred members took to the fairways and, with the first team at 06:20, a very competitive day began. Everyone commented on the excellent course conditions, a tribute to the hardworking efforts of green keepers and volunteers. With a very respectable score of 41 points the Captain’s prize was won by Mr Conor McManus. With the help of Lady Captain Mrs Colette Ewings, the day was a huge success. Evening prizegiving and dinner, followed by entertainment, was attended by Captain Michael’s family, members and guests. 124

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Alison Miley, Myrtle Shaw and Jenny Carmichael.

Liz Hunter, Margaret McCaughey and Jackie Mitchell.

Harry Oliver, Anastasia Tuti and Dr Paul McIlroy.

Josephine Friers, Andrew Gould, Rowel and Jeremy Friers.

Rosemary Edgeworth and Rowel Frier’s ﬁrst piano teacher, Christine Isdell.

Judith and Geoff Wrigglesworth.

Award-winning pianist Rowel Friers with mum and dad Josephine and Jeremy Friers.

Christine Seawright and Rosemary McNab.

SPRING INTO SUMMER CONCERT

The Spring into Summer concert at St Philips and St James’ Church, Holywood. 126

The Spring into Summer Concert, held on Saturday, June 15th in St. Philip and St. James’ Church in Holywood, was a massive success. Featuring performances by Harmony Too, Miskelly Chorale, and Rowel Friers, the event raised funds for the children’s charity Angel Wishes and supported ongoing opportunities for young musicians. The evening was ﬁlled with delightful music and community spirit.

F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Gillian Anderson, John Baxter, Ricky Watts and Hama O’Reilly from KP snacks.

Pre match team talk.

Colin Marchant, Martin Rice, Gillian Anderson, Roy Willighan, Niall Shannon, John Baxter and Lawrence Duffy.

Michael Rafferty, John Baxter and Ricky Watts.

KP brand ambassador Hama O’Reilly.

Gillian Anderson and Colin Marchant.

Neal Gill, Matthew Adendorff, Russell Johnston, Ricky Watts, Hama O’Reilly, Connor Kelly and Michael Rafferty.

Gillian Anderson, John Baxter, Ricky Watts and Hama O’Reilly from KP Snacks.

KP SNACKS CRICKET DAY On Tuesday, June 18th 2024, KP Snacks hosted a fun-ﬁlled media cricket day at Muckamore Cricket Club in Antrim to celebrate their successful sponsorship of The Hundred. Attendees availed of professional guidance while learning the game and enjoyed delicious food, drinks and plenty of KP Snacks. Everyone had a fantastic time embracing the sport. KP Snacks’ media cricket day at Muckamore Cricket Club.

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Sam and Shirley Sinclair, Jim Neilly, Maria Shields, Ian and Linda Graham, Jim and Denise Keith.

Declan Magee, Andy Wells and Patricia Magee.

Thom Knight, Amanda Sloan, Conrad Dixon and Gary Daly.

Rosemary Jayne Brangam, Heather Graham and Mary Wells.

ULSTER REFORM CLUB SUMMER HOG ROAST The Ulster Reform Club’s Annual Summer Hog Roast returned on June 21, 2024 due to popular demand. Guests enjoyed a delicious hog roast, complemented by salads and breads, served on the veranda. Everyone had a wonderful time at this delightfully festive event.

Bob and Noreen Pollock with John and Joan Hunter.

Lesley Macaulay and Nigel Macauley.

Siobhan Sharpe-McKay, Paul Copeland, Kenny Graham, Heather Gibson KC, Michael Copeland, Roisin Copeland, Prof Sheena Lewis and Alva Brangam KC.

Dr Patrick Harriott and Dr Michael Harriott.

Nick McCullough, Laura McCullough, Glenda Willett and Keith Willett. 130

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The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart with Maria Horvathova, Creative Peninsula Cover Artist and Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager, Ards and North Down Borough Council.

Creative Peninsula to Celebrate Arts and Crafts in Ards and North Down Ards and North Down Borough Council is proud to present Creative Peninsula 2024, a highlight of the thriving annual arts programme and a celebration of the highquality art and craft that is produced in the Borough. Now in its 23rd year, this vibrant annual event unites local artists and makers to demonstrate their skills and showcase their exceptional work. Ards and North Down is renowned for its lively artistic community, and Creative Peninsula provides visitors with a unique opportunity to view, purchase, or even commission artworks, as well as participate in workshops throughout the festival. Running throughout August, the festival offers a wide array of free and bookable activities suitable for all ages and experience levels. Attendees can engage with various art and craft forms through open studios, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, and more, fully immersing themselves in the local creative scene. This year’s featured artist is Maria Horvathova, whose artwork graces the cover of the Creative Peninsula guide. Since moving to Northern Ireland from Slovakia, Maria has found a strong connection to home in nature. She will be leading a Freedom of Painting workshop in Ards Arts Centre, on Thursday 8 August, offering participants the

chance to express their feelings about home through painting. The festival kicks off with the Creative Peninsula Twilight Market and Arts Night at Conway Square in Newtownards on Friday, 2 August. For one night only, the space will transform into a bustling arts and crafts village with artists and makers displaying and selling their work. Free demonstrations, including potter’s wheel throwing, painting, printing, and wool spinning, will run throughout the evening, accompanied by live music from the String Ninjas and Los Dramaticos. Ards Arts Centre will also be open and filled with artists demonstration their work. Try your hand or just sit back and watch! New to the programme this year are some special events at Castle Espie. Create your very own treasure tray with Ceramicist Tracey Johnston, make your own decorative bird with Wildlife Artist Adele Pound or try your hand at the En Plein Air Workshop with Pandora Butterfield. On Saturday 3 August, the Alfresco Art event in the garden and Kingfisher Café Courtyard at Castle Espie will feature artists and makers demonstrating their skills. The popular Bangor Art Tour and Tipple returns on Wednesday, 7 August, where attendees can enjoy a walking tour of Bangor, visit three creative spaces, meet the makers, 132

and enjoy a drink along the way! North Down Museum in Bangor will also play host to a Creative Peninsula exhibition and a Heritage Craft Afternoon taking place on Sunday 4 August. The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said: “Creative Peninsula is a wonderful celebration of arts and crafts in our Borough. It is fantastic to have so many talented creatives living and working here, and Creative Peninsula provides a unique opportunity to showcase their work. We are excited to bring this event to you once again and would encourage everyone to explore the Creative Peninsula programme and see what’s on offer.” Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council, added: “We are thrilled to offer a vibrant programme of art and craft activities this August as part of August Craft Month. With events at Castle Espie, a Creative Walking Tour of Bangor, a Twilight Market in Conway Square, exhibitions showcasing our local artists and makers, and a variety of creative workshops and Open Studios, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative.” To view the full Creative Peninsula programme and to book tickets, visit: creativepeninsula.andculture.org.uk

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F O C U S O N SPRING INTO SUMMER

Waterford Treasures Celebrated 25 Years with a ‘Viking Party’ 25 years ago Waterford Treasures useums opened its doors for the first time through the vision of Eamonn McEneaney. In the intervening years, the museum has evolved to now include a collection of six museums in the city’s Viking Triangle welcoming visitors from all over the world every year. This July 4th 2024 Waterford Treasures celebrated its 25th anniversary with a very special Viking-themed event. At the event, visitors immersed themselves in all things Viking with a range of exciting activities in the Medieval Museum. Visitors indulged in authentic Viking foods and drinks in the Choristers’ Hall, while enjoying Viking storytelling, object handling and more surprises throughout the evening. The Waterford Treasures Museum collection now includes The Bishop’s Palace, the Medieval Museum, The Irish Silver

Museum, The Irish Museum of Time, the Irish Wake Museum, The Epic Walking Tour, and the ever-popular King of the Vikings Virtual Reality Adventure, plus Reginald’s Tower. Commenting on the museums and their legacy, Sara Dolan CEO at Waterford Treasures says, “Waterford Treasures’ greatest impact is probably the effect it has had on Ireland’s oldest city. Six museums now have a home in the City’s Viking Triangle; almost all of the city’s six museums were part of a programme of urban renewal and are housed within historically significant buildings in the centre of the oldest quarter of the city. This reinvigoration of these beautiful structures has brought tourists in large numbers. The new revenue encouraged a

regeneration of Waterford within the ancient city walls resulting in a tourism hotspot for the city. We have also seen locals take great pride in the area and smart new bars, cafes and other businesses have sprung up. In a very short time the Viking Triangle project truly did change the face of Waterford City and is one of the reasons Waterford won top spots in the Conde Nast and New York Times ‘must see’ destination lists earlier this year.” A special limited-edition coin has been created to commemorate the occasion. Visitors can purchase the 25th-anniversary coin from the Medieval Museum. For further details see www. waterfordtreasures.com.

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DINING DELIGHTS

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DINING DELIGHTS

Charles Bamford, Mildred Bell and Vice-President Alastair Bell.

John and Ann Spence; Patricia and Cliff Saunders.

NI WINE AND SPIRITS INSTITUTE GALA DINNER

The Northern Ireland Wine & Spirits Institute held its annual Gala Dinner at the Ulster Reform Club recently. The Institute is a notfor-proﬁt group of wine enthusiasts which hosts monthly tastings and special events featuring local and international experts in wine and spirits. The annual Gala Dinner is a not-to-be-missed event as the Institute celebrates wines tasted throughout the year. A delicious meal was accompanied by perfect wine pairings as the institute opened its own cellars for the event. New members welcome; more information can be found at www.niwsi.org.

Vicky McGlade and Philip Rees.

Margaret Francey and Lisa Wilson.

The NIWSI committee Joe McGlade, Paul Kavanagh, Dennis Ensing (Vice-Chair), Susan Reese (Vice-President), Lisa Wilson (Secretary) and Richard Lee (Chair).

David Rice, Patricia and Ben White.

Janet and Bruce Robinson; Grace Bamford and Patricia Rees.

Jody Campbell, Peter Morris Wilson and Kenneth Miller.

Kerry McKittrick, Vice-President Susan Rees and Karla Amirault. 138

Incredible food, wonderful staff, an AMAZING experience.

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Edorestaurant.co.uk 3 Capital House Upper Queen Street Belfast, BT1 6FB 028 9031 3054

DINING DELIGHTS

Julie Patterson, Nuala Meenehan, Chris Morrow and Joanne Harkness.

Emma Armstrong and Keira Campbell from Hendersons.

John Mulholland and David Jordan (Hendersons).

Julie Patterson, Nuala Meenehan and Joanne Harkness.

SD Bells Ops Director William Johnston and MD Robert Bell.

Joris Minne and Pamela Ballantine.

Hendersons MD Cathal Geoghegan and Patrick Gibson (Hastings Hotels).

SOMETHING’S BREWING

Gary McDonald and Inga Donaldson.

After announcing a renewed supply agreement with Hastings Hotels and facilitating their new partnership with local coffee roasters S.D. Bell & Co., Henderson Foodservice joined together with the local brands and coffee specialists, Matthew Algie, to showcase Hastings Hotels’ coffee offering at an exclusive brunch event at the Grand Central Hotel in Belfast. Enjoying a canapé reception complemented by signature iced coffees, guests were then treated to a delicious brunch cooked up by head chef Damian Tumilty using a selection of local ingredients from Henderson Foodservice from the hotel’s new brunch menu. 140

DINING DELIGHTS

JAWBOX Pop Up at The Fitz

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

hen you combine one of my favourite tipples with one of my all-time favourite hotels in the heart of the city, you know it’s going to be a great evening! Cheers to handcrafted JAWBOX Gin, who are celebrating this summer with a stylish pop-up at Belfast’s Fitzwilliam Hotel. Guests, including Barra Best and our favourite party gal Pamela Ballantine MBE, raised their glasses to newly crowned Miss Northern Ireland Hannah Johns, who joined ACA Models boss Victoria Withers. Chilled Jawbox drinks including grapefruit, elderﬂower, pineapple and ginger, and a rhubarb and ginger spritz were served throughout the evening to the backdrop of chilled Ibiza classics courtesy of DJ Stevie Simpson. Celebrate this summer in style at the JAWBOX Pop-Up Bar at the Fitz.

Eoghan Quigg and Amy Campbell.

Nuala Meenehan, Jawbox Gin founder Gerry White, Pamela Ballantine and Miss NI Hannah Johns.

Agata Sidoryk and Gosia Sosin.

Gerry White and Pamela Ballantine.

JAWBOX Gin Summer Pop-up at the Fitzwilliam Hotel. 142

Carthago Restaurant in Moira serves authentic North African, Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine. Tunisian cuisine is the magic combination between North African Barbere, Arab culture and hints of the Mediterranean south coast. Tunisian cuisine uses olive oil, fresh herbs and spices like ras el hanout and harissa, These rich flavours combined with lamb, beef, chicken and seafood make for delicious dishes. Tunisian couscous with lamb is the country’s national dish, but we also have many other types of couscous with vegetables, fish and seafood. We offer different types of stew, tagines, spiced with harissa and tomatoes or mild with saffron and lemon. We have lots of dishes like nwasser, which is a spicy steamed pasta; rouz jirby, which is steamed rice with meat, spices and green vegetables, and shakshouka with salads.

“

ABOUT ME I’m Sabeh Sendi, originally from the very north tip of Tunisia, in the Mediterranean city of Bizerta. I love cooking, it is something we have to learn from a young age. I worked in different jobs as a chef and then decided to open a Tunisian restaurant to showcase our food and our culture. The people of Northern Ireland love our food, we have a lot of return customers and always new faces. Tunisia is a beautiful, magical and exotic country with beautiful beaches, nature, rich history and this is reflected in our cuisine.

TUNISIAN MASFOUF BY SABEH SENDI Sweet couscous Vegan Ingredients 100g couscous 1 tsp olive oil Handful of roasted nuts, dry fruits, chopped dates 1 tsp orange blossom water Handful of pomegranate Rub the couscous with the olive oil Add water just to cover the couscous, place in microwave for for 3 minutes Now add the rest of your ingredients and enjoy a healthy tasty meal For vegetarian you can add butter or cream can be served with grilled lamb and grilled chicken too

85 Main St, Moira, Craigavon BT67 0LH / T: 028 9250 8552 Find us on Facebook

DINING DELIGHTS

My gym at 5.30 - 6.30pm. Whether I will then relax for the night or continue working for a couple of hours depends on work. Then bedtime routine: shakti mat, skincare and relaxation before sleep. 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? Yes, it involves me walking a lot with my dogs and gym classes. I ﬁnd classes are the easiest way for me to get to the gym through having assigned slots and some accountability in actually turning up. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive? I’m a pretty positive person generally, but the best piece of advice would be, if you need a day to yourself then take a day to yourself! Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you, and try laughter therapy - it is a real thing and it is amazing! 7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? The people! I have moved between Australia and Northern Ireland because of my dad’s job as a rescue pilot growing up, and hands down, the people here are the best! And Europe is on our doorstep for trips away.

Jessica Thompson Co-founder of award-winning overnight oats company, Benergy Breakfast.

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? “Stress should be a powerful driving force, not an obstacle.” There is a ﬁne line between being stressed and accomplishing, and being consumed by it. For me, it was learning that balance in all areas of my life. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? My partner Ben and my best friend Marek. We have come a long way, working together across all of our businesses as a team, always! We have such amazing accountability with each other to show up, eat well, exercise, as well as take time for ourselves when it is needed so that we perform at our best.

10. FAVOURITE 1. What do you love most about your job? I own and run multiple businesses, so no two days are the same. I love that so much! There is never a dull moment, and I get to meet so many new people, be they customers of Benergy Breakfast, clients of Appoka, and soon-to-be dogs and their owners with the newest venture coming soon! 2. What has been your career highlight to date? Deﬁnitely getting the keys and completing the renovation on the Benergy premises! Having a space that is our own to work from was such a game changer for us in expanding and a huge milestone.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work? Definitely hanging out with my dogs (Rasta and Mr. Tyson) as well as my friends and family. I love hiking and mountain biking as well. 4. What is your daily routine? I wake up around 6am, go downstairs and I just relax for 30-40 minutes, check emails and drink my greens, then walk with the dogs and have a Benergy breakfast pot and shroom coffee (Rheal Superfoods) to kick start myself. Then it is off to work for the day at Benergy HQ: meetings and whatever the day entails, then lunch of course, more work and 144

Movie: Limitless or The Wolf of Wall Street

Band/musician: ABBA Book: Atomic Habits - literally changed my life.

Restaurant: Kamakura Holiday Destination: Saalbach, Austria

Drink: Sparkling water/Prosecco Meal: Any form of sushi

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• The Nashville Tenors

A CELEBRATION OF CULTURE, MUSIC AND HOME-COOKED SOUTHERN FOOD Join us for a unique celebration as Belfast welcomes the vibrant spirit of Nashville! This special event is a testament to the deep connection between our twin cities, bringing a taste of Tennessee to the heart of Northern Ireland. Experience the soulful sounds of Nashville’s world-renowned music scene with live performances that capture the essence of country, blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Enjoy the rhythm and melodies that have made Nashville the Music City. Indulge in the flavours of authentic Southern cuisine, with home-cooked dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to Nashville. From savoury barbecue to our world famous fried chicken, discover the culinary delights that define Southern hospitality. This cultural exchange highlights the rich traditions and shared values of our twin cities, fostering tourism and mutual appreciation. Come celebrate with us and be part of this extraordinary fusion of Belfast’s charm and Nashville’s warmth. Let’s create unforgettable memories together! The vibrant spirit of Nashville is making its way to Belfast in a spectacular celebration of our twin cities’ shared love of culture, music, food and tourism. This unique event, “Nashville Comes to Belfast”, promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together the best of what both cities have to offer. Music Known worldwide as “Music City”, Nashville’s influence on the global music scene is undeniable. Belfast, with its own deep musical roots, is the perfect stage for this transatlantic musical fusion. The event will feature performances by top Nashville artists, alongside Belfast’s local talent, covering genres from country and bluegrass to rock and traditional Irish music. Concerts, open-mic sessions and

workshops will provide platforms for musicians to connect, collaborate and inspire each other. Culinary Delight Food lovers are in for a treat as “Nashville Comes to Belfast” brings the flavours of the American South to Northern Ireland. Nashville’s famous fried chicken, barbecue and Southern comfort food will be paired with Belfast’s traditional dishes and modern culinary innovations. Food stalls, cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and tasting sessions will celebrate the gastronomic diversity of both cities. Culture Immerse yourself in the cultural exchange that defines the twin-city relationship. Discover Nashville’s artistic vibrancy through exhibitions and workshops that showcase its creative spirit. Engage with Belfast’s cultural tapestry, enriched by its history and traditions. This event is a unique opportunity to explore the diverse artistic expressions that connect our cities. Charity: The People’s Kitchen Friday 23rd August: The Culloden Estate & Spa Gala Dinner & Cabaret in support of The People’s Kitchen. The People’s Kitchen works alongside the homeless, people fighting addiction, and those facing poverty, the number of whom, sadly, continues to increase. It is a place of aid and refuge for the most vulnerable in our midst, who do not have the privileges many of us take for granted. We provide an outreach service on the city’s streets 365 days of the year, offering help with accommodation, hot food, drinks, clothes, advice, friendship and respect to those without a roof, in hostels or sofa surfing. We operate a drop-in facility providing hot evening meals and breakfast on four mornings. We are staffed entirely by volunteers who give of their time, skills and energy freely towards a shared goal. The 146

causes of homelessness are wide and varied: family breakdown, young people leaving a care system that doesn’t really care, poverty, mental health issues, addiction, domestic abuse, people seeking asylum ... the list goes on. The issues of addiction and poor mental health are sadly more and more prevalent, and The People’s Kitchen has played a leading role in bringing these issues to wider public attention, demanding better services for those in real need. The People’s Kitchen works alongside the most disadvantaged and marginalised people in our society and seeks to do so with compassion and respect.

Belfast City Hall Thur 22nd Aug - Civic Reception The Culloden Estate & Spa Friday 23rd August Gala Dinner & Cabaret in Support of the People’s kitchen. St Comgall’s Sat 24th August - Music Workshop St Comgall’s Sat 24th August Pop-Up Monell’s Restaurant Fitzroy Presbyterian Church Sat 24th August Nashville/ Belfast Showcase St Comgall’s Sun 25th August Pop-Up Monell’s Restaurant St Augustine Church, Derry Sat 24th August Nashville Cabaret Evening

www.nashvilleto.com

Gala

Dinner & Cabaret

Experience the heart and soul of Nashville through live performances that capture the essence of its legendary music scene FEATURING

The Nashville Tenors Jill Andrew Ginger Newman Culloden Estate and Spa Bangor Rd,Holywood BT18 OEX

Friday 23rd August 2024 6pm - 11pm SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE’S KITCHEN, BELFAST

Hosted by King Hospitality Group, Nashville Tennessee

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

LAUNCH OF NEW CANAVAN SHOWROOM Canavan, a luxury kitchen and fine fitted furniture company based in Ardboe, Dungannon, recently celebrated their new showroom in style. The event was a resounding success, with customers, partners, suppliers and friends in attendance. After a year of preparation the team pulled out all the stops to make it a night to remember. Guests were treated to delectable cuisine from Dublin-based, Michelin-starred chef Ross Lewis, exquisite chocolates, wine, champagne, cocktails, and an exclusive beer tasting. The evening showcased Canavan’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. If you’re interested in seeing the new space, get in touch via info@canavaninteriors.com or visit canavaninteriors.com.

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UlsterTatler

The 6th Belfast Whiskey Week, Ireland’s largest whiskey festival sponsored by ABL Group Insurance Brokers and Risk Advisors, part of Brown and Brown (Europe) Ltd, returns Friday 19th July - Saturday 27th July. Featuring 100 events, spanning 9 days in partnership with a wide range of venues city wide and delivering sessions with over 40 brands and distilleries. Belfast Whiskey Week celebrates whiskey and Belfast’s deep-rooted history and connection in the production of whiskey spanning centuries, as well as providing experiences for all levels of whiskey drinker, and even those who don’t! Tickets for Belfast Whiskey Week start from £15. For further details visit www.belfastwhiskeyweek. com or follow Belfast Whiskey Week on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @belfastwhiskeyweek #BWW24 and #irishwhiskeyfest. 149

BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

Proud Sponsors of

Belfast Whiskey Week Ulster Tatler speaks to Darren Rodgers from ABL Group, who are this year’s lead sponsor for Belfast Whiskey Week.

Tell us about your role at ABL Group, how long have you been with the company? I am currently an executive director and I have been with ABL Group for 12 years. My role in the company is essentially divided in two parts. I have my own book of clients that I service and manage on a daily basis. I am extremely lucky in this role, as we have such a strong team of brokers with a level of experience that is unmatched in the local market, providing a dedicated and comprehensive service to our clients. The second part of my role is business development, which involves identifying and acquiring new clients. New clients are the lifeblood of any business, and I feel privileged to be at the forefront of the company. What makes ABL Group unique? ABL is part of Brown & Brown, the world’s sixth largest insurance broker. Brown & Brown is a family-run ‘forever company’, which places great importance on nurturing and developing its employees, or teammates. It is this quality that makes ABL unique, and we have found it to be hugely attractive when recruiting talent. Our business is so diverse and there is a variety of career paths and roles, with supported growth provided along this journey. The teammates ethos runs through ABL, demonstrated in our comprehensive development programme, including the ABL Academy, which supports our teammates to gain their insurance qualifications. Research shows that customers want to know their broker is fully qualified, so our Academy programme is not only good for our own talented teammates, it’s also great for customers in giving them peace of mind that an expert is looking after their interests. This training and accreditation programme was one of the first of its kind

in the local insurance sector and is rare in offering the higher level, advanced diploma qualification. The programme goes even further by offering full financial support to those who wish to progress to the top tier of CII qualification, ‘Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Insurance’ through further study and personal development. In June we celebrated the progress of our latest ABL Academy graduates at the Chartered Insurance Institute Awards, held at Queen’s University Belfast. We had nine ABL teammates receiving awards and ABL swept the board with five of our nine graduates picking up special awards. This latest event is a testament to the undeniable hard work and dedication of our team at ABL Group/Brown & Brown and to the continued success of our dedicated development programme, The ABL Academy. In addition, a special mention has to be made of our well-being committee, for the great work they do for teammates, our supported charities and the community. What do you love most about your job? It’s a cliché that insurance is a people business but it happens to be true! I find that the best part of my job is the opportunity to work in new sectors and to meet the people who run businesses. This means that every day can be exciting, but also allows me to grow and develop as I face new challenges. Trust is vital; it is our aim to become trusted advisors for the companies that we manage. This requires a deeper understanding of the business and a great working relationship with the people who run them. This results in very rewarding relationships. I enjoy the challenges and demands that my role brings. No two days are the same, and I find the insurance industry to be hugely dynamic, exciting and critical. ABL Group is the main sponsor for Belfast Whiskey Week – how did this partnership come about? We service some of the largest distilleries in Northern Ireland and this opportunity came from our relationship with them. We have been involved in this industry sector for many years and we are delighted to be playing our part in supporting them through our sponsorship. 150

The food, drink and hospitality sector is thriving in Northern Ireland at present, is this something you would like to tap into? I live outside Belfast, so I would frequent the city more than other places. It is fantastic and inspiring to walk around Belfast and see it thriving, so we are excited and honoured to be involved in such a vital sector in Northern Ireland. We already have a strong presence in this sector, and in addition, we are happy to help and support any new clients. Hospitality has been through some challenging times as a result of the pandemic, but we have been there for them right the way through, and we hope that good times lie ahead. We have a passion in representing and promoting local companies, and one of the main benefits of working for ABL/Brown & Brown Group is that we can cater for all industries and trades, regardless of size. We have a team of industry champions who work closely with all trades and sectors, and their experience is vital in getting our clients the right cover. What are your plans for the year ahead and beyond? From a business perspective, this is an extremely exciting time to be working for ABL and Brown & Brown (Europe). Over the years we have acquired several brokerages, and, combined with organic growth, this has turned ABL into a powerful broking force in Northern Ireland. Following ABL’s acquisition of several regional brokers and Willis Towers Watson (Northern Ireland), we now have a team of over 180 insurance professionals across our Northern Ireland business. ABL are proud to be part of Brown & Brown (Europe), and being part of this journey and growth adds to the excitement. The size and scale of our group allows us to operate our business in a manner that we are passionate about but maintaining national strength and reach. We have changed so much over the last few years but change and growth are part of our DNA here at ABL Group, and we are excited for everything 2024, and beyond, has in store. www.abbeybondlovis.com

DRAGON CLAW WHISKEY

Dragon Claw Whiskey was founded in 2020 by world-renowned tattoo artist Chris Crooks, owner of White Dragon Tattoo Studio in Northern Ireland. Having lived much of his youth in America, and subsequently travelling and specialising in Japanese tattoos for almost two decades, he has brought a fusion of styles to Dragon Claw Whiskey. Dragon Claw Whiskey is a truly independent whiskey brand, possibly the most independent whiskey company in Ireland. Every aspect: the design of the labels, the casks for finishing the whiskey which are hand selected and filled by Chris, the distillation of the whiskey; all creative elements of the brand are carried out by Chris himself. Dragon Claw draws from a rich artisitic past. Chris has an obsession with whiskey. He focuses on quality and with his attention to detail, he has brought together the history of Irish and Japanese artwork in Dragon Claws’ design. This, merged with his love of the Scots Irish and their role in the history and essence of American Bourbon, makes Dragon Claw a unique whiskey.

It started with a simple passion for whiskey and a number of old Bourbon recipes using corn, rye and malt barley. A very small batch of whiskey from an even smaller pot still, running hot in the hills of Holywood, Northern Ireland: first moonshine, before it made its way into virgin American Oak barrels, ageing to a golden rich whiskey, litre by litre, year by year. That was the beginning that gave birth to Dragon Claw Whiskey. Dragon Claw is brought to you in a limited edition series of almost 400 bottles with each special release. Each release, ﬁve in total in the collection, brings its own character to the collection before the release in 2025 of Dragon Claws’ new permanent edition. What made you start a whiskey company? I have always had a passion for whiskey, it’s the only alcohol I have ever enjoyed. Visiting distilleries all around the world when I was young and spending some of my youth living in America played a large part in my interest in Bourbon. Not only for its taste but also the branding and Americana vibe, the Rock’n’Roll aspect of Bourbon brands. I guess you could say there’s an element of Rock’n’Roll to Dragon Claw. I started making moonshine years ago, just a little bit here and there, using old corn moonshine recipes and later adding other grains like rye. I’m pretty good with a small still. But it was always my dream to make whiskey and in particular a Bourbon-style whiskey. Years later Dragon Claw was born with the support of Gareth, owner of Copeland Distillery.

What makes Dragon Claw Whiskey different from other Irish whiskeys? I think Dragon Claw is different in almost every way. The whiskey itself is different as it uses corn and rye. The ﬁnishes of the releases aren’t remarkably different from other whiskeys but what makes it stand apart is the combination of the uniqueness of Dragon Claw whiskey and the length of time I ﬁnish whiskeys in the casks for limited edition collections; much longer than usual. The presentation itself is different, the labels, the choice of bottle etc, because it’s designed by myself, with no real experience in package design, instead drawing from my tattoo artist roots. One of my proudest moments was winning “best design” at the Belfast Whiskey Week Awards, up against brands that have spent a lot of money with professional design companies.

The same goes for the “marketing”. All the photos and social media content are created by me. Not outsourced to a company. It gives me freedom to post what I want and say what I want. There are no shareholders or partners to say NO. It’s stands alone. Being independent gives you so much freedom but also means you make a lot of decisions in a vacuum. Dragon Claw seems very active in lots of different arenas? Dragon Claw is the proud sponsor of the Belfast Trojans, supporting Belfast’s American football team. It is a sport I personally love and a great partner for the brand. I was the ﬁrst to sponsor local podcasters and to collaborate with the local dance music scene. I like to go places other brands might not. I even found myself spending the weekend dressed up with Vikings, Dragon Claw taking part in their festival. I think, as a result of my unique situation in not having brand ambassadors, I insert myself into everything. I also host private tasting events that are always a bit special and outside the box. Dragon Claw has a real core following and I love personally bringing it into different worlds. For Belfast Whiskey Week I am hosting an exclusive, specialised tasting and poker night in The Garrick Bar.

How do you ﬁnd time to do it all? All of this is done while still focusing on tattooing clients from all around the world throughout the week. It’s hard but you get these perfect collaborations when someone from America is getting tattooed and they tell me they had a few Dragon Claws the night before in the city! That’s pretty cool. I would love to have it with one of the major airlines or in duty free, just to build on that. Sooner or later I’m going to have to take on some people to help me build the “Company”. I’m immensely proud to have brought it from a few drops of moonshine to a respected whiskey brand that has such great support from people.

What is the future for Dragon Claw Whiskey? When I started Dragon Claw I just wanted to be able to go into a bar and order my own whiskey, to see it on a shelf, to spend a night with friends drinking my whiskey. That will never change. Now it sits in bars in the city like The Merchant Cocktail Bar, The Garrick, Duke of York and Bittles. I’m really proud to have it in these great establishments; it’s amazing support for such a small local whiskey. Moving forward I would like to build on that, progressing into the global bar scene. Later this year I release the Mizunara in Tokyo. This is the year of the Wood Dragon, a significant and special year for Dragon Claw Whiskey. With the release of the Mizunara “Water Oak” I personally imported this cask from Japan and filled it in 2021. I painted the “Unryu” by Junsaku Koizumi to pay homage to the Wood Dragon, referencing photos from many trips to Japan. Bringing Dragon Claw full circle in a way. It’s a small brand, probably the smallest in Northern Ireland, but with big dreams, big plans and a serious drive for further success. Next year is the release of Dragon Claws’ final incarnation, a single barrel release that will see quite an increase in the number of bottles released. This will be the liquid that solidifies Dragon Claws’ identity, a corn & rye whiskey like nothing produced on the island of Ireland before. I am currently designing the bottle and label and this release will really stand out from the crowd, a whiskey that is quite happy to be the black sheep. I’ve slowly been bringing my tattoo art into the design of the releases but next year Dragon Claw is happily going to be the Rock’n’Roll bad boy of Irish whiskey. Dragon Claw Whiskey is available to buy online for shipping worldwide at www.kwmwine.com To Learn more about the brand follow Dragon Claw on Instagram www.instagram.com/dragonclawwhiskey

BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

Sláinte, as Belfast Whiskey Week Returns

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

f you are going to be locked up in Crumlin Road Gaol, let it be in McConnell’s Whiskey Distillery, in fine company with a drop (or two) of the good stuff. Guests from Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality venues and media were sent down for the official programme launch of this year’s Belfast Whiskey Week. Celebrating its 6th year, Belfast Whiskey Week, Ireland’s largest whiskey festival sponsored by ABL Group Insurance Brokers and Risk Advisors, part of Brown and Brown (Europe) Ltd, returns Friday, July 19th, to Saturday, July 27th. The programme includes whiskey tastings, cocktail events, theatrical experiences, distillery tours, sensory and fine dining experiences, exclusive dining and drink collaborations with well-known Belfast bars and restaurants, heritage walking tours, food pairing sessions, and much more. Join the whiskey expo at St. Comgall’s and meet the brands and distilleries pouring their whiskey for festival attendees to explore. Party with Belfast Whiskey Week at this year’s cocktail take-over at Trade Market. Celebrate with those making their mark in the whiskey world at the annual Irish whiskey industry awards. Festival venues selected for their strong whiskey links and their love of showcasing whiskey include Duke of York, The Deer’s Head, Angel & 2 Bibles, Holohan’s Pantry, Dark Horse, Maddens, The Morning Star, Hearth, and Trade Market, to name but a few. Bars, restaurants, heritage walking tours, food pairing sessions, and much more.

Alex Moffett, Helen Armstrong and Andrew Moffett.

Tickets for Belfast Whiskey Week start at £15. For further details, visit www.belfastwhiskeyweek.com.

Andrew Galway, Lisa Ryan and John Kelly. Christine Baker, Conor Owens and Melanie Harrison.

Graham Flanigan, Tom Maguire and Peadair Meenan.

Amanda Ferguson and Sara O’Neill.

Calvin Lawrence and Nadia Sayers. 155

Wendi Kane, Lara Goodall and Michele Bryans.

BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

Experience Excellence at The Echlinville Distillery The Echlinville Distillery, just outside Kircubbin on the Ards Peninsula, offers a great day out for any spirits enthusiast.

Echlinville is Ireland’s first farm distillery and was the first new distillery in the north for more than 125 years when it began production in 2013. Echlinville has since established itself at the forefront of Ireland’s whiskey renaissance and is home to some of the country’s leading spirits brands including Dunville’s Irish Whiskey ‘The Spirit of Belfast’, Old Comber Whiskey, Jawbox Gin, Weavers Spirits and the recently launched Echlinville – The Beginning Single Estate Whiskey. Echlinville’s whiskey is distilled exclusively from barley grown, harvested and floor malted on the distillery farm. Every step of the production process – from mashing and fermenting the grains, to casking and maturing the spirit, to filling and labelling the bottles – has been completed on-site at the County Down distillery. This complete Single Estate story makes Echlinville unique among Irish distilleries and ensures their whiskey has a true connection to the place where it is made.

Echlinville’s spirits are rooted in provenance, place, tradition and authenticity, earning the distillery a reputation for excellence among the global whiskey community and garnering a host of international awards and accolades. The Echlinville Distillery offers regular visitor experiences, attracting spirits enthusiasts from around Ireland and beyond. The Echlinville Tour & Tipple offers a unique insight into the workings of Ireland’s first farm distillery and the fieldto-glass journey of their spirits. Hear about Echlinville’s commitment to provenance and how they sow, grow, harvest and floor malt their barley on the distillery farm to create whiskey with a unique connection to the Ards Peninsula. View the beautiful copper stills and enjoy the earthy aromas of the whiskey

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maturation warehouse – but be careful not to disturb the sleeping casks! After you’ve discovered how Echlinville captures the flavour, colour and mouthfeel of their spirits, relax and enjoy two drinks of your choice in the bar. Whiskey, gin, vodka or poitín – the choice is yours. Complete your Echlinville experience with a visit to the distillery shop and Distiller’s Rest Café and enjoy a stroll through the historic Echlinville Estate on the Echlinville Walking Trails. Tours are available most weekends and bookable at echlinville.com. The shop, café and walking trails are open to the public, regardless of whether or not you are taking a tour. For opening hours, tour bookings or to purchase Echlinville’s award winning spirits, visit echlinville.com or follow @echlinville on Instagram, X and Facebook.

TOURS WALKS

CAFÉ SHOP

Find our opening hours at echlinville.com/visit-us

62 Gransha Road, Kircubbin, BT22 1AJ T: 028 4273 8597

Book your Tour & Tipple at echlinville.com

@echlinville

whiskey without compromise

THE SPIRIT

dunvilleswhiskey

@dunvillesirishwhiskey

OF BELFAST

@dunvillewhiskey

www.dunvilleswhiskey.com

BELFAST WHISKEY WEEK

Lynn and Shane Braniff.

The new Eclinville Whiskey arrives on site at the distillery.

ECHLINVILLE LAUNCH SINGLE ESTATE WHISKEY On Friday 31st May, Echlinville Distillery launched their inaugural Single Estate Whiskey, ‘The Beginning’, at their distillery in Kircubbin. The event was attended by several prominent ﬁgures in the Irish whiskey industry, including Barry Chandler and Francis Leavy. Guests were thrilled to witness the distillery owner, Shane Braniff, arrive onsite in an FV432 Armoured Personnel Carrier military tank, with a special delivery of the brand-new whiskey.

Echlinville Distillery owner Shane Braniff arrives on site with the new Whiskey.

Nigel Clarke; Pauline and Paul Evans.

Robert Kosiba, Fran Leavey and Glenn Loughins.

Barry Chandler, Philip Hughes, Geraldine and Joseph Birt.

Stephen and Janice Adair; Barbara McMaster and Ian Bell.

Lauren McMullan, Barry Chandler and Tara Clarke.

Conor Bolger, Amy Whearty, Janet and Niall Bolger. 158

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Family members at the memorial of Lord Pirrie in Belfast’s city cemetery.

Lord Pirrie’s relatives Catherine Charley and Johnny Andrews.

. Lord Pirrie’s great-niece and closest living relative at the memorial Diana Taggart.

Rev Ian Gilpin and Johnny Andrews.

Aoife Moony and Keela Costello from Titanic Belfast.

Catherine Charley, Johnny Andrews and Carey Ramsay.

Johnny Andrews, Diana Taggart and Peter Boyd.

WILLIAM PIRRIE MEMORIAL Mark Doherty (Belfast Titanic Society), Siobhan McLaughlin (Maritime Belfast) and Eleanor Alexander (Titanic Society).

On Friday 7th June, family and friends gathered to commemorate William Pirrie, chairman of Harland & Wolff, founder (with Lady Pirrie) of the Royal Victoria Hospital and Liberal Home Ruler. The memorial took place at City Cemetery where guests, including Lord Pirrie’s great-niece and closest living relative, Diana Taggart, attended the service. 160

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Donna Kelly and Caple MD Danny Lay.

Jess Wheeler and Joanne Underhay from Caple.

Sean Goulding, Natalie Clayton, Stephanie Braniff and Conor Duggan.

Peter McCloskey (Errigal) and Liz McTasney (Timeless Kitchens).

Damien Treanor, Paul Lupari, Adrian Allen and Cormac McCloskey.

Holly Rathore and Rachael Cully (Strawhill Kitchens).

Wilson Briggs, Stephanie Braniff and Colly Wilson (Alwood Kitchens).

Cormac McCloskey with family left-right Orlaith, Maria, Cara and Eimear.

POTTER COWAN UNVEILS NEW SHOWROOM

Lyndsey Campbell and Clark Elwood.

On Thursday 20th June, Potter Cowan, a leading name in kitchen solutions, celebrated the grand opening of its brand-new showroom in Duncrue Crescent, Belfast. Hosted by managing director Paul Lupari, the event was well attended by customers, suppliers and representatives from Potter Cowan’s parent company, Errigal, making it a successful and enjoyable occasion for all.

David Milner, Mark Holmes and Paul Dorrington. 162

MAKE A

SPLASH B

Image courtesy of Flair Showers.

athrooms are difficult rooms to keep on trend. Striking the balance between practicality and cutting-edge design can be difficult – whether it is nature-inspired trends, bold colours or that timeless look that will last a lifetime. The bathroom is a place to relax and unwind, with this in mind some manufacturers are seeing an increase in demand for more subdued tones, with predictions for green shades, brown tones and more earthy looks to be popular in the year ahead. Is the bathtub falling out of favour? While they will always have a place in bathrooms all around the world, the humble bathtub is becoming something of a curio, with many opting for showers and wet room spaces instead. Recently, showers have also caught up, with fixed, spacious shower heads in both traditional and modern finishes – everything from brushed brass taps and shower heads to matt black shower enclosure frames are becoming a focal point. The possibilities are endless; hopefully our Make A Splash feature will give you some food for thought!

MAKE A

SPLASH CECO

Alison Brown

CECO Contact Alison for a chat about your bathroom requirements or to make an appointment. Office: 028 9081 7272 Mobile: 07515 574 578 www.cecoproducts.com

CECO, in Carryduff, has been delivering beautiful bathrooms since 2011. The bathroom showroom is managed by Alison Brown who provides a comprehensive design service which includes aiding her clients to visualise their bathrooms through the use of a 3D virtual design programme. This gives the clients a complete understanding and confidence that the chosen products and design scheme will work in reality. Alison has been designing bathrooms for over fifteen years and has a wealth of experience, having previously worked for many renowned bathroom companies. She has a passion for design and an eye for detail that allows her to create stunning bathrooms for her clients. Ceco is the main supplier of Porcelanosa sanitary ware in Northern Ireland. Porcelanosa

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is one of the world’s leading ceramics manufacturers, offering both bathroom furniture and tiles. With Porcelanosa you are guaranteed products that are high quality and right on trend. These products, along with many other leading bathroom brands such as Laufen, Roca, Gessi and Burlington, can be seen in Ceco’s stunning showroom, which has carefully selected pieces on display to help you find inspiration for designing your new bathroom. They are also introducing the new Assisi brassware range from Marflow. Ceco’s strength lies in its overall expertise and passion for design. The company’s carefully selected portfolio of products is what sets it apart. This and the company’s unrivalled service, make creating your dream bathroom and interior spaces an enjoyable experience.

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SPLASH WATERSHED BATHROOM & TILES A passion for bathroom design, combined with a dedicated and experienced sales team, ensures that Watershed Bathrooms remains at the forefront of the bathroom industry as one of NI’s leading bathroom retailers. With a network of six stylishly designed showrooms province-wide, our stunning bathroom and tile displays showcase an extensive range of products, including many of the leading designer brands such as Laufen, Roca, Hansgrohe and Utopia. This truly stunning product portfolio of premier brands allows our experienced design consultants to create Dawn Ralph bathroom and tile designs that appeal to every taste and lifestyle. Excellent customer service is central to WATERSHED BATHROOM everything we do. From the initial planning and design to the finishing touches, our dedicated & TILES sales team will be on hand to help you select your bathrooms and tiles, helping you every Antrim, Bangor, Belfast, step of the way, advising you on the latest Coleraine, Eglinton and Larne. trends and innovative product. We offer a www.watershedbathrooms.com complimentary design service and our excellent 3-D package allows us to bring your ideas to life. Dawn Ralph of Watershed Larne says: “Gone are the days of a white threepiece standard bathroom suite: basin, bath and toilet. The options are now as limitless as your imagination. With products available from a huge range of world-class manufacturers and suppliers, the sky literally is the limit in both design and technology. With the vast array of colours, textures and finishes available in both off the shelf and bespoke furniture, there really is something for everyone. A bathroom

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is now an important room in every house and makes a statement. People notice these rooms, so why not make your bathroom a room that people remember, whether it is with a walk-in shower, coloured brassware, a statement piece of furniture, or even a bold tile or panel. Even a small change can have a huge impact.” Whether you are looking to revamp an existing bathroom or planning a complete refurbishment, the sales team at Watershed Bathrooms have the experience and knowledge to provide you with valuable advice and guidance to aid you in making the correct choice. For ideas on bathroom and tile design, call into one of our six showrooms situated in Antrim, Bangor, Boucher, Coleraine, Eglinton and Larne and allow the expertise and vision of our design consultants to bring your ideas to life. For more information visit: www.watershedbathrooms.com

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ALF MCCREARY LAUNCHES ‘KEEPING THE FAITH’ On Thursday 30th May, Alf McCreary, award-winning journalist and well-known author, launched his brand new novel ‘Keeping the Faith’ in the Canada Room at Queen’s University. Known for his writings on faith, politics and current affairs, his latest work focuses on his life, from his childhood in Bessbrook, Co. Armagh to his reﬂections on the Troubles and the current peace process.

Hilary and Alf McCreary with Lisa Evitt and Steven Irwin.

Alf and Hilary McCreary.

Jim Rea and Mark Smith.

Lesley Evans and Gertie Malone.

Patrick, Matthew, Orla and Cara McCreary.

Alf McCreary at the launch of ‘Keeping the Faith’.

Anne Hailes.

Elizabeth Foley, Cecilia West and Carol Anne Henry. 170

Joanna Sherry, Aimee Ferguson, Glenn McRoberts, Grace Anderson, Finn Hehir, Shona O’Connor, Alyssia Rice, Cameron Fraser and Emma McKeown.

College Principal Amanda McNamee and Head of Art Emma Niblock.

Joanna Sherry with parents Richard and Sarah Sherry.

Grace Anderson and mum Elizabeth.

Lewis Dempster and Rudi Bowen.

Glenn McRoberts (middle) with parents Charlotte Bryson and Paul McRoberts.

Mum and daughter Susanne and Emma McKeown.

Shona O’Connor and Anita Murphy.

LAGAN COLLEGE A LEVEL ART EXHIBITION Lagan College hosted its A-Level Art Exhibition on Tueday, 25th June 2024. The event showcased the exceptional talents of its students, featuring a vibrant display of innovative artworks. Students beamed with pride as their creative achievements were celebrated and admired by all attendees.

Lagan College art department: Gillian Cooke, Emma Niblock, Peter Privilege, Jacqueline Rogan, Danielle Collins and Emily Scott. 172

New collections now on display 14-16 Newry Street Kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4DN

028 4176 2315 www.johnashannon.co.uk

Fiona McCann, Martina Coogan, Grainne Cullinane and Gillian O’Neill at the launch of Shed by Bridge St Studios.

Tom McCourt, Ken and Maeve Donald.

Cathy McKeown and Rachel Tinniswood.

Orla Barry, Mary Cowan, Caoilﬁonn Murphy O’Hanlon, Suzanne Carroll and Órlaigh Cullinane.

Sarah McKenna and Aoife Finnegan.

Emily Scott, Katherine Leyburn and Òrlaith Cullinane.

Sinead Butler, Carrie Lappin and Doreen Lappin.

Agata Banc and Christine Donnelly.

LAUNCH OF SHED AT MARKET PLACE

Oliver O’Hare, Susanne O’Hare, Ann Gribben, Aoife Walsh and Sean Walsh. 174

Dundalk’s Bridge Street Studios, one of Ireland’s oldest and largest independent artistic collectives, presents ‘Shed’, a captivating visual art exhibition. Featuring works by nine dynamic artists, the exhibition spans paintings, sculpture, prints, ceramics, textiles and mixed media. Attendees enjoyed exploring the rich imagery and symbolism, appreciating each artist’s unique take on the theme.

The Word

MODERN

OFFICE

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Would you like to work in a creative ofﬁce environment in a superb location?

SUMMER EXHIBITION AND SALE OF WORK

Modern ofﬁce suite to let within Ulster Tatler Group at 39 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6UT Approximately two miles from Belfast City Centre and in close proximity to the Westlink and M1 junction at Broadway.

ORIGINAL ARTWORK BY RUAIRI MOONEY

The office suite is finished to a high specification to include carpeted floors, plastered and painted walls and gas heating.

in Portstewart Golf Club on Thursday 1st - Sunday 4th August.

Ideal for 2 to 4 people Includes communal reception, kitchen and toilet facilities, as well as a private meeting room. Externally there is car parking available for 3 vehicles.

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E: ruairimooney3@gmail.com T: 075650 96332

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THE LOVERS This image by Paul Yates captures that forever moment when two lovers hold themselves so closely, so completely, they never want to let go. Whether to mark a new relationship, engagement, wedding or other special occasion, THE LOVERS is the perfect gift to express how you feel about the special someone in your life. Framed and presented in a premium gift box each print is titled and signed in monogram by the artist. A gift to be treasured. www.paulyatesart.com/thelovers Also available at Bradbury Art, Belfast.

Patrons: Lord and Lady Glentoran

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Michael and Jane Hardy from the Fourth Wall.

Kerry Logan, Kellie Turtle and Alison Pascoe from the Cregagh Woodstock Diversity Carnival.

BELFAST 2024 ‘BANK OF IDEAS’ Belfast 2024 is a bold initiative, worth £5.9m, by Belfast City Council supporting the cultural and artistic life of the city. The aim is to reﬂect Belfast’s diversity and vibrancy. Highlights include the Lyric Theatre’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and a large number of community-led projects, including children’s activities and plans to ‘green’ new parts of the city.

Carly Curley and Tina Calder from ‘Be Seen Be Heard’ helping young people in Belfast express their voices.

Belfast Ukelele Jam at the Bank of Ideas voting day.

The Lyric’s Riverside Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream ran at the Lyric Theatre’s new Laganside outdoor theatre from July 3-4. Jane Hardy spoke to director, Jimmy Fay.

You wouldn’t automatically connect Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream with Mad Max. But that is exactly what artistic director of the Lyric Theatre Jimmy Fay is doing. His new production of one of Shakespeare’s best loved plays, written around 1596, is channelling a kind of post-disaster, dystopian world. “I think it’s a really unnerving play, I don’t think it’s a pleasant play at all although people see it as sunshine? and fairies. The way I see it, there are three worlds. There’s the court, Theseus and his group who are quite military and fascistic, and would kill Hermia if she doesn’t marry the man they want. You can’t marry the person you want to marry It’s clear if you look at the ‘ not my daughter’ bit. Then there’s the lovers, then the fairy world. I am referencing Mad Max, a dark, industrial, futuristic world, with found objects, cars and rusty cans about the set.” He adds: “The lovers are quite subversive, and young and manic. Hermia stands up to her father and runs and runs. Helena’s fantastic, too, very smart although blinkered about Demetrius.” he says, explaining that this tale of love and lust situated in a wood outside Athens depends on

Puck’s drug for there to be a happy resolution. Intriguingly, Stuart Marshall’s set imagines the river Lagan has flooded then receded leaving a tide of urban rubbish behind, with old tyres around. As Jimmy Fay states, “It’s climate change and all that. I didn’t want to prettify the play.” He hasn’t, so do not expect lovers in floaty dresses and dashing outfits kissing between the trees. This is a different world, dominated by magic that may not always be white, as Titania finds to her cost via the obsession with Bottom the weaver, transformed into an ass. Fay has directed in before in his career, in an acclaimed Dublin production with political overtones. Now the influences are film and an exploration of otherness. For this is a faery world. The Bard’s depiction of human psychology is filtered through the little people, Oberon and Titania and of course Puck. “It’s a hundred per cent human psychology, the id and all of that.” notes Mr. Fay. As the sprite who drugs the lovers into romance admits in the famous speech at the ed, Puck’s not altogether a good guy. “If ye think we have offended/Think but this and all is mended… This Puck, played by the actor John Patrick, is in a wheelchair. Jimmy Fay 176

notes: “He is in a wheelchair which creates a different dynamic. And the fairies are played by young people who are autistic or don’t have access to the arts, who have difﬁculties by the brilliant Rogue Encounters”. This is a group for performers who are differently abled. David Calvert, director of Rogue Encounters, comments, saying that his performers bring something different to their roles as Peaseblossom, Cobweb, Moth and Mustardseed. “They do represent an otherness and because these young people have a different experience in life, they can bring something new. I’ve been impressed by the generous welcome we have received at the Lyric Theatre. One actor, Megan, said to me after rehearsal she felt she could now tackle anything.” In 1969, the late, great Peter Brook, whom Jimmy fay met at a workshop he led in Paris, redeﬁned A Midsummer Night’s Dream via a production reimagined as a circus performance. It altered the way we see this Shakespeare dream, and this Lyric production, part of Belfast City Council’s impressive Belfast 2024 initiative, just might do the same thing.

GOLDEN THREAD GALLERY REOPENS IN QUEEN STREET ON SATURDAY 10th AUGUST! The award-winning Golden Thread Gallery reopens to the public in its new venue at 23-29 Queen Street on Saturday 10th August 2024 from 1-4pm with a special celebration, including face-painting and art activities for kids, two exhibition launches and goody bags! Everyone is welcome to attend this free event. Co-directors Peter Richards and Sarah McAvera are excited to open the doors to the gallery again. Sarah says, “We’re delighted that the gallery is now in the heart of Belfast city centre, in a location where we can not only welcome back our existing audiences, but be more easily discovered by new visitors. We’ve always been passionate about the power of art as a place to dream, to think outside of yourself, to be creative and to have fun. We work with communities across the city, and our new venue truly has something for everyone.” The gallery’s opening exhibitions will be The End of Art is Peace by acclaimed artist Graham Fagen in the Upper Gallery, and Charlotte, Rob, Robin & You by Northern Ireland-based artists Charlotte Bosanquet, Rob Hilken and Robin Price in the Lower Gallery. Upcoming exhibitions include Claire Morgan, Susan Hiller and Shirin Neshat. The historic former Gas Corporation Showroom and Craftworld building on Queen Street has been renovated and restored to bespoke specifications to become the gallery’s new home. Set across two floors, the new venue includes two large galleries, a projection room, a community participation & engagement hub and Northern Ireland’s first visual art library & archive. The new gallery is an accessible venue with step-free access, lift to the first floor, an accessible ground-floor bathroom and largeprint versions of all gallery texts. The library and archive room offers wheelchair accessible workspaces, adjustable seating, magnification aids for people with vision impairment and reading aids for people with dyslexia.

‘Fold’, 2023, Claire Morgan, Photo John McKenzie.

The gallery’s core funders are the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council. Opening hours are 11-5 Tuesday to Friday, and 11-4 on Saturday. Entry to the gallery is free. More information is available on www.goldenthreadgallery.co.uk

GOLDEN THREAD GALLERY

July 2024

ARTS DIARY

“The festival plays a key role in providing a platform for local and up-and-coming artists” EDITED BY KELLIE BURCH KELLIE@ULSTERTATLER.COM

EastSide Arts Festival Launch Templemore Baths was the setting for the eagerly anticipated unveiling of the EastSide Arts Festival programme. Running from 25 July – 4 August 2024 this year’s impressive line-up is ﬁlled with music, workshops, comedy, tours, theatre, literature and visual arts. Guests on the night, such as broadcasters Pamela Ballantine and Cecilia Daly; Lindsay Charrington and Jordan Baker from Bright Umbrella Theatre Company; and Lisa Flavelle of Belfast89FM; were treated to a DJ set by The Night Institute’s Timmy Stewart,, as well as some tasty treats from Aunt Sandra’s; perfectly setting the tone for what’s to come in this year’s 11-day festival. With over 60 vibrant events across east Belfast, audiences will be spoilt for choice this summer. Festival highlights include the creative theatrical offering by Joyce Greenaway, Whisk(e)y Wars, staged at Titanic Distillers; a Night of Classic Country Music with The Boondocks, at Harland & Wolff Staff Club; the Dragtastic Cabaret featuring Lady Portia, Cherrie Ontop and Onya Becks, at Shorts Sports & Recreation Club; and The Night Institute Presents: EastSide Electronics: Lil’ Louis (the Founding Father of House) at C.S. Lewis Square. A date that’s already in my diary is Parkfest, on 28 July, which will see a host of activities, performances and pop-ups for the whole family across C.S. Lewis Square and Orangeﬁeld Park. There are so many other fabulous events in this year’s programme, it needs to be viewed in its entirety to fully appreciate how impressive it is. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, who was in attendance at the launch, commented: “The festival plays a key role in providing a platform for local and up-and-coming artists and welcoming visitors into the east of the city. It is also pivotal in bringing the community together, with a great range of diverse entertainment on offer for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy.” For the full festival programme and ticket information visit www.eastsidearts.net The launch of EastSide Arts Festival took place on 13 June.

de Arts Director Rachel Kennedy.

Belfast Lord Mayor Mickey Murray with Eastsi

Pamela Ballantine and Cecilia Daly.

Aimee Consiglia Conway from Eastside Arts and Templemore Baths Heritage Office Sam Guthrie.

Lisa Flavelle and Timmy Stewart.

Brian Haslett, Michael Stewart, Gavin Robinson and Mark Irvine. 178

Lindsay Charrington and Jordan Baker.

Aoife Hellier, Aisling Hellier and glass artist Madeleine Hellier, Claire Halpin and designer Aoife Harvey.

The ‘Glass Runway’ designers.

Jennifer Butler, Helen Hancock and Brig Butler. Roisin de Buitléar and Andrea Spencer. Sarah Baccianti, Hannah Crowdy and Kim Mawhinney.

Alison and Aideen Byrne.

The Glass Runway When I arrived at The MAC for the ‘Glass Runway’ Live Fashion Show, I didn’t know what to expect. However, nothing could have prepared me for the visual spectacle that awaited. The unique catwalk show marked the opening of a spectacular exhibition celebrating a one-of-a-kind collaboration between 20 glass artists and fashion designers. The aim of the exhibition, which features remarkable objects and clothing made of wearable glass, was to shatter attitudes to gender and diversity bias and champion inclusion. Before the catwalk came to life, the audience - including Eddie Shanahan, Chairperson of the Council of Irish Fashion Designers; and Kim Mawhinney, Chair of the Craft NI Board); welcomed special guest, fashion designer Sara O’Neill. Sara gave an introductory talk about her own career and why she opted to stay in NI to launch her hugely successful Éadach brand. The brainchild of the Glass Society of

Sarah Ward-Hendry and Kathryna Cuschieri.

Charlotte McReynolds and Katherine McDonald.

Ireland, in collaboration with The Council of Irish Fashion Designers, ‘Glass Runway’ showcased the unexpected potential of glass and fashion. All pieces were also thoughtfully made with sustainable materials and production processes. There were so many stand-out pieces for me, such as Kathryna Cuschieri’s symbolic ‘Dress of Vision’. But I was absolutely in awe of NI fashion designer Aoife Harvey and glass artist Madeleine Hellier’s ‘Corsuit’. The contrast between a stunning glass corset worn over a suit was visually compelling and explored how society can place constraints on a person solely because of their gender. There were audible gasps when fashion designer Noema Damaris and glass artist Jennifer Butler’s ‘The Kate Breastplate’ appeared on the catwalk. The sun glinted off the mirror and tessellated glasswork used for the breastplate, making this exquisite construction shimmer, fully capturing the reﬂective ethos of the remarkable piece.

‘Perpetual Offender’.

The fashion show ﬁnished with fashion designer Sarah Ward-Hendry and glass artist Róisin de Buitléar’s ‘Perpetual Offender’, which consists of a short dress, a skull cap with glasses and ear defenders, a glass collar and a bag. The bold design encapsulates strength and vulnerability and was the perfect way to close the show. All the collaborations were equally as remarkable and although they stayed on the catwalk longer than is traditional in a fashion show, there still was not enough time to appreciate the intricate details in each carefully crafted piece. Which means that the exhibition that opened two days later at Craft NI is all the more special as visitors have the opportunity to really appreciate the skill, talent and societal narrative that was born from each and every one of these unique collaborations. ‘The Glass Runway’ live fashion event took place on 4 June. The exhibition opened on 6 June and runs until 25 July.

“visitors have the opportunity to really appreciate the skill, talent and societal narrative that was born from these unique collaborations. ” 179

Gillian Martin, Debbie Eve, Anthony Eve, Robert and Pat Mills, Jenny and Brian Compston.

Yassi and Izzy Uprichard, Ava Dee ry (front), Suzanne Uprichard and Margare t Robinson.

Laura Collins, Hannah McCourt and Hilary McCourt.

Hazel Francey and Clare Pollock.

The Art Exhibition Newtownbreda Presbyterian, 374 Ormeau Road, had a creative idea to raise vital funds: an art exhibition featuring a stunning collection of work from amateur and professional artists. The money from The Exhibition will be used to carry out work on the church and redevelopment of its halls complex, a vital resource for the local community. The preview evening of The Exhibition attracted a diverse crowd — such as artists Beverley Healy and Aoife Murphy; Kay Cullen of Ulster Society of Women Artists; and Rev. Paul Lutton, minister at Newtownbreda Presbyterian, who were eager to view the 350+ individual works of art that were on display. Each piece that was showcased were available for the public to purchase, with prices ranging from £50-£5,000. One artist whose work was on display was the incredibly skilled Izzy Uprichard. The 16-year-old, who hails from Belfast, not only designed the exhibition brochure but also created a collection of vibrant pieces. These colourful additions were deﬁnitely a draw for the exhibition - and show that Izzy’s a talent to keep an eye on. For more information people can visit www.newtownbreda.org. The preview night of The Art Exhibition took place on 20th June.

Kay Cullen and Grandson Cùàn Maher.

Janice Lightowler, Helen Condy and Teresa McGahan.

“The 16-year-old, who hails from Belfast, not only designed the exhibition brochure but also created a collection of vibrant pieces.”

Beverley Healy and Jenny Hamilton.

Donald Milliken and Rev Paul Lutton.

Aoife Murphy with parents Debbie and Kevin. 180

Brendan Morgan, Adrian Doherty and Ray Morgan.

Rebecca Barker, Festival Director

Dónal O’Connor and Seamus Og

Birt.

John Mackle, Goretti O’Connor, Bernadette Scott, Siobhan Morgan and Pat O’Connor.

Festival Chairman Ray Morgan with Belfast Lord Mayor Mickey Murray.

Lauren Ní Néill and Eugene McKenna.

Patricia Murray, Neil Martin and Jack Warnock.

Musician Henry Spencer.

Belfast TradFest Launch

The ﬂoor was literally jumping as musicians such as the wonderful Bow Brothers (Cathal Hayden, Stephen Hayden, Niall Murphy and Seamie O’Dowd); and Castlewellan native Múlú, from 11-piece all-female collective BIIRD, took to the stage. TradFest has become a staple in our cultural calendar and with its track-record of weaving together a diverse array of performances, workshops, céilís and launches, this year’s programme illustrates just why Belfast is such a vibrant UNESCO city of music. With 350+ events taking place from 21-28 July, the festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. Some highlights include: the Dunville’s Irish Whiskey Trail which will visit 17 Belfast pubs, such as Madden’s Bar, Kelly’s Cellars, and more, for ‘Céilí House’ style

The streets will be alive with the sound of music this month as Belfast TradFest makes a triumphant return. And if the launch event held in The Deer’s Head was anything to go by, audiences are in for a treat. Sponsored by Dunville’s Irish Whiskey, guests at the launch - such as Adrian Doherty from Tourism NI; Festival Chairman Ray Morgan; and Belfast Lord Mayor Mickey Murray, were treated to a complimentary glass on arrival as they were warmly welcomed by Dónal O’Connor, Belfast TradFest artist director. As well as talking about this year’s programme highlights, Dónal invited the packed crowd to enjoy a sample of the calibre of artists that can be expected at the 6th installment of the festival.

Mary Jo McAteer and Siün Nì Dhuifinn.

Listening Sessions; Celtic Goddess Moya Brennan at the Empire Music Hall; a concert in The MAC featuring some of the ﬁnest ﬁddlers on the planet paying tribute to Belfast trad legend Sean Maguire; the Bow Brothers with Mary Dillon, Dónal O’Connor and Neil Martin at the Empire Music Hall; the Belfast Harp Festival; the Pride Céilí in association with Belfast Pride; and BIIRD featuring Polka 4 at Mandela Hall. This merely scratches the surface of what’s on offer during this vibrant, diverse and imaginative festival. The full programme is available at belfasttradfest.com The launch of Belfast TradFest took place on 26 June. The festival takes place21-28 July.

“ this year’s programme illustrates just why Belfast is such a vibrant UNESCO city of music.” 181

Nice Weather For A Killing

July 2024

BOOK EXTRACT

This month we feature an extract from Nice Weather For A Killing by Dublin author, Seymour Cresswell. Arthur Cummins nervous and restless ahead of his wedding, arrives ridiculously early at the church. His happy day takes an utterly catastrophic turn, when he discovers a body lying dead in the deserted chapel. I sat on the nearest bench and tried to gather myself. My heart was racing and I was panting for air. I thought for a moment that I might pass out, but I drew a deep breath and steadied myself as best I could. At that moment, I took in the fact that the wedding flowers had already been put in place. They surrounded the corpse like funeral tributes. Jesus, I thought, the murderer had managed to dump the body in the time between the florist’s team leaving the church and my arrival. Had the killer been disturbed, or was it their intention to have the body discovered where it lay? I looked at my watch. Eight thirty. It was beyond doubt a murdered corpse, left in the church by the murderer – perhaps to make a point? I had no phone, so I couldn’t react to my first instinct, which

Nice Weather For A Killing by Seymour Cresswell, published July 18, 2024 by Poolbeg Press

was to phone for the police. Having abandoned that idea, I was forced to think of another plan. Run to get help? But where? And what would happen next? The police would arrive with an ambulance, crime-scene investigators, forensics teams, the whole doings. I imagined the wedding guests arriving to ﬁnd the church sealed off as a crime scene, striped Garda tape stretched across the gate to the little gravelled car park, uniformed Gardaí warding off guests, all decked out in their wedding regalia. Distraught people turning away shocked. The wedding postponed or cancelled. We had taken out wedding insurance but I was fairly sure that we were not insured for a murdered body in the church. If I called the Guards, the wedding would be called off and everything would go down the toilet. Furthermore, I was afraid that our relationship wouldn’t survive a blow like that. And then there was the Gizzard Man, who had been messaging me that morning. He wasn’t going to wait. I had invested nearly seven years in my relationship with Hilary. Seven years during which I had been more-or-less faithful. We had been together for so long that I couldn’t imagine what life without her would be like. We were Arthur- and-Hilary, in alphabetical order, A&H: a team. Who the hell was this guy with the crushed skull in his plastic winding sheet? What right did he have to gatecrash our wedding, to spoil it all? In the heat of the moment, all I wanted was to be rid of the dreadful corpse, brush it under the carpet, pop it in the oubliette, ﬂush it away, hide it, so that the wedding could go ahead. I hadn’t killed him; I didn’t know who had done it; it was nothing to do with me. I should have walked away and called the Guards, but I didn’t. I couldn’t bear the thought of Hilary crying in her wedding dress. I was afraid of the consequences of losing the lifeline of her daddy’s wedding gift. I acted on impulse; it was a spur-ofthe-moment thing. I gathered up the plastic sheeting at the feet of the corpse and dragged it over the carpet back through the vestry and out the door. The rain had continued unrelentingly, and it pelted down on me as I laboured to drag the corpse to the steps of the basement.

182

Here I paused and had a quick check to make sure that no-one was watching, then dashed back to the vestry to look for the keys to the iron gate that barred the basement doorway. I found a key-rack and silently blessed the thoroughness of the church organisation when the key labelled ‘Crypt’ fell to my hand. I ran back to the sunken entrance, descended the four shallow steps, unlocked the gate and swung it open. Its hinges were silent with rain. The door itself was unlocked. I took hold of the plastic-shrouded feet of the dead man and dragged his body down the steps. I inwardly apologised for the unceremonious bashing of his poor ruined head on each of the steps. I didn’t bother turning on any lights or checking the state of the basement. I just put him in, slammed the door, locked the gate and ran back through the rain into the church. I had left my stout little candle burning on the ﬂoor where I had found the body. I quickly found the light switches by the front door and turned on all the lights I could ﬁnd. I checked the time again: twenty to nine. I sat in the front pew, head bowed as I gasped for air, and forced myself to think. Gradually my surroundings made themselves known to me: the long narrow windows with the gothic arches, marble plaques on the walls remembering the dead, the The killer must have intended the body to be found when the church was opened up for the wedding that morning. I had scuppered that plan. Was the killer likely to cause a scene because I had moved the body? Would they report the theft to the police? When the Reverend Karen asked the congregation if any person present knew of any reason why Hilary and I should not be wed, was the killer likely to step forward with an objection? No. There was no longer any doubt in my mind about the wedding. Nothing would stop me from marrying Hilary. She was the only girl for me. I felt exalted. The murder wasn’t my problem. I couldn’t have prevented it. I didn’t cause it. Eventually the corpse would be found and the murder investigation would kick off. All hell would break loose, but by then me and my bride would be long gone, joined and blessed by the lady priestess, Daddy Fenton’s largesse safely in the bag.

Dromore Nestled in the scenic landscape of County Down, Dromore is a charming town rich in history and natural beauty. This delightful destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors. Stroll along its historic streets to discover the majestic Dromore Cathedral, a 17th-century architectural gem that tells tales of the past. The town is surrounded by lush countryside, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and picturesque picnics. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene beauty of the nearby Lagan Valley Regional Park. Enjoy the warm hospitality of local pubs and cafes, where traditional Irish music and hearty fare await. Don’t miss the bustling Dromore Market, where you can ﬁnd local craft and fresh produce. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or a touch of Irish culture, Dromore in County Down offers an inviting retreat with a unique charm. 183

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Dromore

Enjoy the warm hospitality of local pubs and cafés, where traditional Irish music and hearty fare await. Don’t miss the bustling Dromore Market, where you can find local craft and fresh produce. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or a touch of Irish culture, Dromore in County Down offers an inviting retreat with a unique charm.

Vox Pops..

Claire Anderson and Linsey McMurray opened CALM café restaurant eight months ago and just love Dromore: “The people are so friendly and the local business owners could not have been more supportive. The town is continually developing with new independent traders, bright shop fronts and more community green spaces.”

Lesley Price has run the bookshop in Dromore’s Bridge Street for 28 years. She says, “The people and fellow business owners make the town special. Everyone looks out for each other and help each other make the town better.”

Dromore shoppers Jackie Cochrane and Stephanie Surgenor from Hillsborough travel to Dromore regularly for the range of great butchers, bakers and the lovely cafes in the town. The independent cafes and restaurants have also given the town a new night-time appeal. 184

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Dromore

Providing Honest and Reliable Advice

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Specialists in sales,

Cairns and Downing was established by Laura Cairns and Janet Downing in 2020 and the Dromore Branch opened in 2022 with Jodie Kinkead joining the team in February 2024. We have built a strong reputation for our customer- centric approach and commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our clients, offering people in Dromore and surrounding areas choice, best in class advice and service when it comes to putting their property on the market or renting it out. We understand that it is a massive decision for people to put their property on the market and when they choose Cairns and Downing, we are honoured that they do so and pride ourselves on doing the best job possible for them. www.cairnsanddowning.co.uk

Providing excellence in eyecare and eyewear since 2001. We have the latest technology in eyecare and Zeiss lenses, combined with the very best customer service. Gorgeous glasses – seeing well and looking good. 1 Church Street, Dromore,County Down, BT25 1AA Tel: 028 9269 2224 www.fjoptician.com 185

lettings, property management and portfolio building

Get in touch to see how we can help 1 Meeting Street, Dromore BT25 1AQ call: 028 96223011 email: info@cairnsanddowning.co.uk www.cairnsanddowning.co.uk

SPECIAL FOCUS

Dromore

Dromore Chamber of Commerce has been a recent catalyst in Dromore’s proactive appraoch to taking pride in where we live, work and play. With 40 members and its heavy involvement with local voluntary groups, Dromore has become one of County Down’s most unique towns to visit. With a traditional townhouse in Market Square being the heart of the town, leading to many side streets filled with artesan-style boutiques, bookshops, giftware and not to forget its fantastic eateries such as Barrel and Bean, a cocktail and coffee bar open late nights, and Calm, an artesan coffee and traybake house. Visitors can spend hours shopping and dining or simply enjoy an ice cream from the famous Graham’s brand. Packed with history, visitors can enjoy sightseeing using Dromore’s history trail leading to Dromore play park and BMX pump track. Dromore Chamber of Commerce promises visitors will not be disappointed and highly recommends The Courtyard Artesan Market on Church Street, every 2nd Saturday of the month from 9.00am - 3.00pm.

Vox Pops..

Fashion and jewellery designer Melanie Bond moved her boutique store into the town centre almost a year ago: “The town has come along so much recently with all the business owners pulling together to enhance the town’s unique appeal.”

Independent fashion boutique At: 5 Bridge Street, Dromore Online: melaniebond.co.uk Telephone:

WE ARE OPEN Wednesday to Saturday 10am - 5.30pm

Love Chicken, Love Herrons?

07871 053 515

bespoke jewellery accessories & clothing

Stockists of

melaniebond.co.uk

36 Market Square, Dromore BT25 1AW Telephone: 028 9269 9889 186

SPECIAL FOCUS

Dromore

Why I Love...

Ulster Tatler speaks to Jemma from Joseph Murray Limited. How long have you been living/working in Dromore? Dromore has been an integral part of my life since birth as I have always lived just a few miles outside the town. I attended Dromore High School for my secondary education as did my father before me and I now have two daughters who are also currently at the school. My connection to the town is further enhanced by the fact that I now work in the very centre of Dromore for Joseph Murray Limited, Chartered Accountants based in Market Square. What do you love most about Dromore? Dromore has undergone a complete regeneration over the past number of years and there really is something for everyone. For the sports fanatics we are lucky to have a leisure centre as well as a ladies hockey club and a rugby club. There are numerous coffee shops and cafés which are perfect for grabbing a quick cuppa on the go or for catching up with friends. In my working life as a chartered accountant they are also invaluable for meeting up with clients over lunch or a snack. Dromore town has such a great community spirit where everyone is friendly, looks out for each other and pulls together to lend a helping hand where needed. Does Dromore have any hidden gems? There are plenty of hidden gems in Dromore. Personally, one of my favourites must be the famous Graham’s Ice cream shop. A staple in Dromore and one I hope will be there for many years to come! I enjoy nothing better than their special vanilla ice cream regardless of the weather. Taste Coffee shop next door to our office is also a firm favourite. My youngest daughter loves their pancake stack, and it is a treat for her to look forward to after Saturday morning hockey training. As a busy working mother with a family, I have always found Carnbrooke Meats to be an invaluable source of good quality meat and other foodstuffs with plenty of variety on offer. One of the most recent additions to Dromore is the Courtyard Artisan Market. This takes place every month behind the old Ulster Bank premises on Church Street. This artisanal market has brought a great buzz to the area giving local traders a chance to showcase their amazing produce and talent. The live entertainment and wide range of traders on show every month ensure that each visit results in a completely different experience which keeps you coming back for more. Where do you like to dine and socialise in the area? A visit to Barrel and Bean based in the old Northern Bank Premises is a must. This coffee and wine bar offers a vast array of delicious options from traybakes to bar snacks and caters for all tastes. There is such a welcoming feel and good atmosphere, and nothing is too much trouble for the owners and staff. Perfect for a quick catch-up over coffee, a night out with the girls or even a romantic meal for two, Barrel and Bean offers a taste sensation for all, prepare to be amazed!

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Dromore

Celebrating 21 Years in Business Ulster Tatler speaks to Deborah Crookshanks, owner of Serenity who are celebrating 21 years in business. You have reached the milestone of 21 years in business, how do you plan to celebrate? We have introduced a new treatment for our 21st anniversary Called ‘Tranquility’ where we put together calming breathing, soothing stretches, a self-heating eye mask, along with a wonderful massage, which includes face and body Gua Sha, hot stones and pressure points to leave you feeling totally calm and relaxed. We had a small informal celebration back in January to kickstart us celebrating 21 years throughout the year. We had a Tranquility treatment demonstration along with an evening of Prosecco and mini cupcakes.We also had goodie bags full of gifts and products (some of which our suppliers had very kindly donated). When you ﬁrst set up Serenity, did you envisage it becoming the business that it is today? The difference in the last 21 years has been amazing! I guess I never imagined we could be so busy. In fact, we are on the lookout for another experienced therapist to join the team. Back then I was just doing what I loved to do, in my now hometown of Dromore. Providing treatments to my clients and

trying to create a safe, calm and relaxing environment. Now as well as being a good beauty therapist, along with all the responsibility of running the business I really do have to be able to juggle many roles and be able to wear lots of hats. Somehow I think I strive under pressure! I absolutely love the fact that so many of my clients have been with me on this journey of 21 years and I would say so many are much more than clients, they are more like our friends. What do you love most about your job? I love being able to transport my clients into a world of tranquility and pure relaxation. When I’m providing a relaxing facial or a massage and they are drifting in and out of sleep or perhaps snoring, which is an absolute compliment and I know I’m doing something right! I really enjoy the variety of treatments and no two days are generally the same as we do offer quite an extensive range of treatments. So many of our clients have been visiting Serenity for such a long time, many for 21 years, so it’s often like catching up with a dear friend. Only two days ago I asked one of my clients from Conlig

Opening night! Deborah pictured with UTV reporter Linda Brien back in 2003. Newtownards why she has travelled to Serenity for the last 21 years for her monthly treatments and to my delight she answered: “it’s here at Serenity I receive the professionalism, friendliness and I enjoy receiving the personal touches. I feel I’m not just a number!” What are the beneﬁts of working in Dromore? Working in Dromore is great, the people here are so friendly, it’s like a close family of businesses that help and support each other and work together as a team to help make Dromore strive and make the town a better place for the whole community. We often help out with local events, projects and charities. It’s great to see so many new businesses in the town offering some great new services. Most people know everything about the town, it’s history and community, although I’m still classed as a blow in! Even though I’ve been here for 25 years now.

We had sponsored Dromore Ladies hockey club back in 2020 when the under 14’s won the All-Ireland competition in Dublin in late 2019 representing Ulster. They then became the All-Ireland winners and were selected to represent Ireland at the EHL (Euro Hockey League) in Holland. We were all set and excited to go to Holland to support the team but sadly due to Covid these play offs were cancelled. We have really enjoyed supporting and sponsoring kit for our local High School’s hockey team and being able to go along and support them win the under 16 and under 18 High School Cup at Stormont in 2022, getting to the semi ﬁnals of the super league, play in the Belfast Telegraph senior schools cup as well as the Ulster shield 2023. Last year we sponsored their South Africa tour playing tops and were fortunate to go and support them play and win their way around South Africa which was an amazing experience for all of us.

Erin Dale, Regan Skelton, Danniella Crookshanks and Deborah Crookshanks.

Serenity Beauty Boutique, based in the heart of Dromore, has a philosophy to treat each clients individual needs, whilst delivering an unforgettable experience. Within Serenity you will find a friendly relaxing atmosphere with five treatment rooms a relaxation area plus a make up and manicure station. Serenity offers a variety of health beauty advanced skincare and alternative treatments. Customer service is extremely important to us here at serenity. We go above and beyond to accommodate our clients wherever possible and our aim is to provide a wonderful experience. Whilst Deborah specialises in facials massage and waxing, she enjoys the large variety of treatments offered at Serenity. Regan specialises in nails and lash lifts but also loves facials and enjoys the variety of all the treatments giving a nice variation to the day. We both especially enjoy Giving relaxing phytomer treatments and being able to offer both the relaxing and the advanced skincare such as the medical grade Alumier MD. Lockdown encouraged businesses to enter awards and after 18 years of Serenity and 31 years as a Beauty therapist I entered four categories in the British Health and Beauty Awards - Beauty Therapist of the year, Beauty salon of the year, Massage therapist of the year and Waxing Expert of the year. I was delighted to receive Gold for all four regional categories and overall winner of Beauty Salon of the Year 2021 and went onto win Ulster Tatler Beauty Salon of the Year 2021.

19 Princes St, Dromore BT25 1AY l 028 9269 0785

SPECIAL FOCUS

Dromore

For Your Beauty Needs Lorraine Jones opened Pretty Woman Beauty + Laser Clinic in Dromore over 34 years ago. With a wealth of experience, professionalism and innovation, Lorraine’s clinic was the first to bring the transformational eyelash lift from Thailand to Northern Ireland. Pretty Woman is the only salon in Dromore to offer laser hair removal, Guinot and Environ skincare and make-up. Medical treatments include the removal of skin tags, red veins, warts, verrucas and pigmentation. Rebecca joined Pretty Woman 10 years ago, specialising in gel nails, massage and spray tanning. Two years ago they welcomed Jill to the team, providing pilates, personal training, sound bath and yoga under ‘Jill’s Fitness’. With her skills and expertise she brings a health and well-being element to the salon.

BEAUTY & LASER CLINIC E S T. 1 9 9 1

• IPL permanent hair reduction (RQIA reg) • Eyelash lift • Cryopen – pigmentation and skin tags • Guinot and Environ facials • Sugaring, waxing and threading • Gel nails and spray tan 16B Church Street, Dromore BT25 1AA 028 926 99065

16b Church Street, Dromore T: 028 9269 9065

www.prettywomandromore.co.uk

Dromore

G RI CAE H A M S C R E A M

Why I Love...

How long have you been living/ working in Dromore? I was raised in Dromore, spending my early years as a child living above our shop. I have been scooping ice-cream for 13 years, with many more to come.

What do you love most about Dromore? Dromore is a small hub in terms commuting, with a good history behind it. So, working in customer service you never know who you could get talking to and from all corners of the world. Does Dromore have any hidden gems? From markets on a Saturday, tasty grub, frosty pints, ﬁshing spots, a history of its own, sports clubs, a golf course at your back door and a homemade ice cream while you do it all, Dromore has lots of gems to be discovered.

Check us out on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook @ grahamsicecreamdromore

Where do you like to dine and socialise in the area? I have spent many a night in Mullhollands with old friends playing bad pool and drinking one too many, to my sporting years at Dromore Rugby club, to roaming the town as a young man with an imagination; I have always found somewhere to socialise.

26-28 Market Square, Dromore BT25 1AW Tel: 028 9269 2336 Email: grahamsnews@gmail.com

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Adam McKendry, Martin Jordan, Roddy O’Flaherty and David Lynas.

VP Adrian Eastwood presents the Brian Morgan Memorial Trophy to Ruth Gorman.

Stephen Burnside, Adrian Eastwood, Ruth Gorman and Jack Orr.

Linda Giles, David Millar, Sylvia Ashe and Damien Overend.

Neil McKnight, Stephen Murray, Jack Brennan and Nick Brennan.

Winners at Galgorm Castle were, L to R: Damian Kelly, John Haughey, Ruth Gorman, Adrian Eastwood, UPGS Captain Alan Clements, Paddy Bond, Colin Knox, Darren Steenson, Steven Moore, James O’Leary and Gareth Hanna.

Chris Cairns, Michael Pollock, Oliver McVeigh and Gerry McLoughlin.

PRESS GOLF SOCIETY

Dennis Monaghan, Peter McLean, Pat Toal and James Rogers.

Sixty players attended the Ulster Press Golf Society, Vice Presidents Day at Galgorm Castle golf course. Thanks to their director of golf Ross Oliver, for making the day such a memorable one. VP’s Adrian Eastwood, Chris Brooke and David Sloan were the main sponsors of the day, with a little help from honorary member Adrian McLaughlin, director of Outwalker Irish Whiskey. The weather on the day was good, with the sun actually shining at times but scores were tempered by a stiff breeze. The course was in great shape and looked every bit the part of a course that has hosted the Irish Open. The overall winner of the day was Ruth Gorman with an excellent score of 40 points and was the proud winner of The Brian Morgan Memorial Trophy, a long time Society Vice President, who passed away in 2018. 190

The Word

Sreejith Sreekumar’s “Adoption” Gears Up for Premiere At just 28-years-old, Sreejith Sreekumar, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, is poised to captivate audiences once again with his latest endeavor, “Adoption”. Having already established a reputation for compelling storytelling with his awardwinning project “Shivarathri,” Sreejith continues his creative journey as both the writer and producer of this heartfelt passion project. In collaboration with producers Mariam Kawaja and Michael Sherrie, Sreejith has crafted a narrative that delves into the themes of love, loss, and Sreejith (left) with actor the profound connections that form the James Martin. essence of family beyond biological ties. The film is a poignant exploration of adoption, told through the eyes of Angela, a woman navigating the emotional complexities of adopting a child named Love. The Silent Child and Irish Goodbye is on the favourite list of Sreejith. The film is directed by Ronak Kapoor, known for his sensitive and innovative storytelling approach, which perfectly complements Sreejith’s script. Behind the camera, the talented cinematographer Sam Houston captures the poignant moments of the story with a delicate balance of realism and artistic flair, promising to bring the emotional landscape of the film vividly to life. The cast features Natasha Lockhart in the lead role as Angela, delivering a performance that beautifully articulates the complexities and profound emotions of an adoptive mother. The role of Love, the child at the heart of this adoption story, is portrayed by the talented young actress Ariella Neilly, whose presence on screen is both captivating and moving. Supporting young roles include Omolara Olawuyi, Abel Hamilton Shields, and Elsie Tate, who bring additional layers of depth and perspective to the narrative. Each child actor delivers a performance that contributes significantly to the film’s exploration of family, belonging, and love. The involvement of these young actors has not gone unnoticed. Wolf Talent Agency has commended Sreejith Sreekumar for his approach in working closely with the parents and providing opportunities for the children featured in the film. The film has been nominated for an award at the London Global Film Awards. As “Adoption” moves through post-production, the film’s journey is just beginning. With its powerful story, talented cast, and dedicated creative team, the film stands poised to make a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, reinforcing the message that family transcends biology and is deeply rooted in love and commitment. The upcoming film festivals will be a critical platform for “Adoption” to not only reach a wider audience but also to spark meaningful discussions about the themes it so thoughtfully addresses.

www.skeaeggs.com www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 Tel: 028 877 61252 www.skeaeggs.com www.skeaeggs.com Tel: 028 877 61252 Tel: 028 877 61252

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LOOKING BACK ISSUE: JULY 2004

PARADISE VIP NIGHT AT THE LYRIC THEATRE Tim McGarry, Olivia Nash and Dan Gordon at the world premiere of ‘Paradise’ in Belfast.

ON THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN

James Ellis, James Galway, Barry McGuigan and Sam McAughtry in A memoir by Sam McAughtry.

ACHESON & GLOVER CELEBRATES OPENING OF BANGOR CENTRE

Steven Dunlop, Bangor Town Centre Manager; Jackie Scott, Antrim Construction; David Boland, Acheson & Glover; Darren Mawhinney, Haldane Fisher at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel.

OPTICIAN AWARDS

Harry Hill, Edel McElholm, Ranulph Bathgate (director of Rodenstock), Chris Bennett (editor of Optician magazine).

MILLENNIUM FORUM SUMMER SERENADE Chris Blake, Oboe Player, Ulster; Dr Alan Gillespie, Chairman, Ulster Bank Group; David Byers, Chief Executive, Ulster Orchestra. Ulster bank welcomed the Ulster Orchestra for a Chamber Concert at Millennium Forum in Derry.

OPENING DAY OF JUNCTION ONE IN ANTRIM Sinead Downey, Brian Henning (CUSP), Alistair Kennedy (Kennedy Group) and John Drummond (Guinea Group).

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