Ulster Tatler March 2020

UK & Ireland Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2019

ULSTER TATLER

Double Award Winning

NORTHERN IRELAND’S

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UlsterTatler MARCH 2020

MARCH 2020

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2020 SET TO BE MOST SUCCESSFUL YET FOR SPARQ

Belfast-based technical production event specialist, Sparq, is set to mark its best year yet thanks to some major kit investment, a large-scale branch refurbishment and a catalogue of prestigious live events already in the pipeline.

One of Northern Ireland’s leading event specialists, Sparq, has positioned itself as the only technical event production company in the region to provide a full suite of services in-house. This includes everything from technical production and set and stage design, right through to video and content creation, thanks to its dedicated in-house studio. Ongoing investment has also ensured the production specialist boasts a large inventory of kit, which includes LED videowall, the latest d&b sound systems and a vast array of lighting equipment.

Sparq is experienced in delivering a diverse range of events and has supported with everything from conference and award ceremonies right through to gala dinners, across Northern Ireland and beyond.

The team is also the official technical production partner for the Ulster Tatler Awards this September, supporting the award ceremony since its inauguration 13 years ago.

2020 will also see the office undergo major renovation, which will see it enhance its current services and also expand its facilities. This will include a refurbishment of its green screen studio, voiceover and production facilities, which are frequently used to produce videos for renowned organisations across Northern Ireland, as well as several television commercials and TV segments for ITV. To enhance its current video production offering, Sparq has recently invested in more state-of-the-art equipment to bolster its service offering. This includes a Sony fx9, one of the first available to the events market in Northern Ireland. The full frame 6K sensor camera produces breath-taking cinematic images and has a whopping 15 stops of dynamic range. The team is proud to stay ahead of the game when it comes to video software using standard products like Final Cut Pro, Cinema 4D and the full adobe collection.

If you’d like to pop in for a chat about your next event, or you’d like a tour of the new Sparq facilities, get in touch either by calling 028 9077 2772 or emailing hello@sparq.live

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TWEAKMENTS GUIDE FOR A FRESHER LOOK Cosmetech offers non-surgical cosmetic treatments in two locations: The Maypole Clinic in Holywood, Northern Ireland and The Chelsea Private Clinic, London. Unlike many other clinics in this sector our treatments are administered by a team of Consultant Surgeons who specialise in reconstructive, plastic and Maxillofacial surgery in both the NHS and private sector.

TESTIMONIALS

“

I noticed the difference straight away. It looks like I have a jawline now. It doesn’t look overly drastic which can be the case with surgical facelifts - it just gives my face more definition.

I am absolutely thrilled with the results! The team were absolutely amazing and the premises they have at their Holywood branch is great! They offer a wide range of treatments such as Botox, Dermal Fillers and mole removal. My consultant, Mr Gerard Smith is a Consultant Maxillofacial (head, face and neck) Surgeon with a specialist interest in non-surgical treatments.

Alex Best, PDO Thread-lift

“

“

I was in and out in about 20 minutes and it has definitely softened the fine lines around my eyes and my mouth. It is very subtle, it’s not a big stark change but that’s exactly what I was after. Improved quality of skin and it just makes me look a bit fresher. I’m so pleased.

“

Emma Louise Johnston, Profhilo

We have been independently assessed against a robust set of standards in order to be certified as Save Face Accredited. Save Face is a Professional Standards Authority accredited register and is recognised by the Government, The Department of Health and NHS England.

vitamins and minerals back into the skin to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin. It creates an airbrushed effect to the surface of the skin without adding volume. It is not a dermal filler so it’s great for those who want a natural look.

Procedure Time 2 x 30minute treatments , 4-6 weeks apart.

Before: Threadlift treatment

Result Effect You can see results immediately. Skin rejuvenating and tightening effects start from 3-4 weeks Result Duration The majority of patients find the treatment results last 9 months.

Anaesthetic Topical numbing cream.

After: Threadlift treatment

FAVOURITE REGENATIVE FACELIFT PDO THREAD LIFT This treatment uses absorbable threads to lift and rejuvenate facial skin, resulting in a fresh and youthful appearance. The Thread Lift treatment repositions sagging skin, to tightening and add definition to the face.

Procedure Time 2 x 45 minute treatments, 4-6 weeks apart.

Result Effect You can see lifting results immediately. Skin rejuvenating and tightening effects start from 3-4 weeks and continue for up to 8 months.

Result Duration The majority of patients find the treatment results last from 12-18 months.

Back to work You can resume normal activity immediately following the treatment.

Sensitivity There may be sensitivity 24-48 hours post treatment Risks and Complications There’s a chance of bruising, swelling and tenderness post treatment.

BEST NON-SURGICAL FAT DISSOLVING INJECTIONS AQUALYX is one of the most popular and

effective fat removal and body sculpting procedures Cosmetech offers. Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Injections. Aqualyx is a safe, effective fat dissolving injection treatment that reduces fat cells in the treated area. It produces long lasting results, which means you can banish those annoyingly wobbly bits. It is very effective for body contouring, but is not a treatment for weight loss.

Procedure Time 2-3 x 30 minute treatments 4-6 weeks apart are recommended.

Result Effect It takes up to six weeks for you to notice the effects.

Fat dissolving injections can help you to achieve a slimmer, more contoured body shape, with long-lasting results of between two and four years. The results are even longer if you maintain a healthy diet and regularly exercise!.

Anaesthetic Topical numbing cream Back to work You can resume normal activity immediately following the treatment.

Sensitivity There may be sensitivity 24-48 hours post treatment Risks and complications The swelling will usually go down within 48 hours but can take up to a week.

Prices start from £350

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Back to work You can resume normal activity immediately following the treatment.

To book a complimentary consultation at Cosmetech please call 028 9042 3200

Before: Aqualyx

Sensitivity There may be sensitivity 24-48 hours post treatment.

Risks and Complications There’s a chance of bruising, swelling and tenderness post treatment.

OUR MOST POPULAR SKIN BOOSTER FOR GLOWING SKIN IS PROFHILO® Profhilo is a skin booster which injects essential

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

After: Aqualyx

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Contents

March 2020

64

68

199

FEATURES

UK & Ireland Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2019

ULSTER TATLER

Double Award Winning

UT STYLE 125

CHARITY GUIDE The gift of giving

145

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME Your forever home

188

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

NATIONAL BED MONTH Sweet dreams

210

64

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW CEO of the MAC, Anne McReynolds

NEW BUSINESS START UP Expert advice

219

KNOW THE LAW Strict liability for in-flight accidents

CULTURE

87

UT BRIDES Local readers’ weddings

206

PORTSTEWART Town in focus

84

105

NI WEDDING AWARDS The 2020 winners

224

LOOKING BACK Ulster Tatler over the years

22

IAN SANSOM Top of the head

24

INSIDE TRACK Our top picks of the month

26

NORTHERN IRELAND’S

NO1 GLOSSY

UlsterTatler MARCH 2020

MARCH 2020

UT TALKS TO THE MAC’S ANNE MCREYNOLDS

£3.20

BELFAST DOCTOR ON HIS TREASURE ISLAND

FOCUS ON LOCAL CHARITIES VOLUME 54 NO.3 ULSTERTATLER.COM

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

£3.20 (€4.55)

This month’s cover was shot on location at Keens Furniture Belfast, featuring the Orla Kiely furniture collection, including the Ivy chair and multi stem wallpaper.

Keens Furniture, 186 Albertbridge Road, Belfast, BT5 4GS T: 028 9045 3310 www.keensfurniture.com Model: Lauren Leckey, ACA Models Hair & Makeup: Samantha Weightman Clothes: Next Photography: Andrew Vaughan

68

MY STYLE Fashion inspiration for local trendsetters

75

HAIR MATTERS Style and substance

79

BEAUTY MATTERS Spring skin glow

ARTS DIARY The latest cultural events

Full Colour

Keep In Touch With Ulster Tatler At:

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9,200

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18

follow us on twitter @ulstertatlermag or like us on facebook

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

Black

Reverse

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124 ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS

Editor’s Letter

Lucky Thirteen Pat Jennings, Ciaran Hinds, Michael Longley, Terri Hooley and Gloria Hunniford - what do they all have in common? Well, apart from hailing from Northern Ireland, they have all been recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ulster Tatler Awards. Who will be picking up this year’s award? Unfortunately, you will have to wait until 10th September to find that out. However, what you can do now is have a say in who wins the other categories in this year’s awards. The publication of this edition of the Ulster Tatler marks the start of voting in the awards. There are 14 categories in which you can vote and this year we have added two new categories in the form of Personal Trainer and Commercial Design Project of the Year. I am also delighted to announce that we have a new title sponsor, namely, Keens. In order to vote simply go to page 61 or visit ulstertatler.com. As in previous years, voting is very straightforward. Remember you can vote in as many or as few categories as possible but you can only vote once. Vote and you could be in with a chance of winning a VIP trip to the awards. The awards are now in their 13th year and this year’s ceremony promises to be every bit as exciting and glamorous as last year’s brilliant night at St Anne’s Cathedral. So get voting!

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EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Chloe Heaney Hannah Reilly Michaela Colgan SALES & MARKETING MANAGER: Lorraine Gill Gerry Waddell COPY CONTROLLER: Gemma Johnston

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11/02/2020 14:58

Column / Life & Times Finalist PPA Independent Publisher Awards 2018Writer Of The Year

Ian Sansom Ian Sansom writes for the Guardian. He is the author of the County Guides and the Mobile Library series of novels. His most recent books are The Sussex Murder and September 1, 1939 (both published by HarperCollins).

Top of the Head This month, Ian Sansom discusses the benefits of being an academic.

‘D

o you really think that people don’t know?’ asked my wife. ‘You think they haven’t guessed? You think they have no inkling?’ I don’t know. What do you think?

Is there any disguising the fact that I am not entirely normal? Is there any disguising the fact that I am in fact … an academic, that my working life is spent mostly in classrooms and lecture theatres and seminar rooms? Can you really tell that I’m an academic? ‘You are such an academic,’ says my daughter. ‘How can you tell?’ I ask. ‘You can just tell,’ she says. ‘In a good way?’ ‘Not necessarily in a good way …’

Well, for better and for worse, I am an academic, and so as an academic I inevitably spend some of my time - not as much as I would like, I have to say - in Queen’s University library, wandering up and down, pulling books at random off the shelves, and absentmindedly flicking through them. This is by no means a standard or approved method of research in institutions of higher education but it has been my own peculiar method and habit for twenty plus years now - I’ve been doing it since the library at Queen’s was not the super-duper McClay Library, but the big old tower block library, that always reminded me rather of a run-down Soviet hotel.

Wandering the McClay’s distinctly nonrun-down-Soviet-hotel-style stacks recently I pulled from the shelves some back copies of

Advances in Experimental Social Psychology - available, you will be interested to know, at BF401 .A2., McClay Library, floor 1, journals.

And I’ll tell you what, I LOVE Advances in Experimental Social Psychology. It is my new bedtime reading. Volume 11 (1978) of this august journal contains a number of interesting articles, including ‘The Persistence of Experimentally Induced Attitude Change’,

by Thomas D. Cook and Brian R. Flay, and ‘The Contingency Model and the Dynamics

of the participants, and others viewed the face of the other participant. Some observers viewed the conversation from the side, so that they could see both participants’ faces.

The observers were then asked to report on which participant had the most influence in the conversation, based on tone and content. In every case, it was whoever’s face was more visible to the observer who was judged to have the most influence.

There are various ways of interpreting

“this phenomenon helps to explain all sorts of troubling and peculiar things.” of the Leadership Process’ by Fred E. Fiedler. Great articles both. But what really caught my attention in volume 11 was an article by Shelley Taylor and Susan T. Fiske, ‘Salience, Attention and Attributions: Top of the Head Phenomenon.’ Honestly, stick with me here: this may change your life.

Taylor and Fiske organised a series of experiments in which observers listened to scripted conversations between two participants. The observers were positioned so that some of them viewed the face of one

Illustration by Jacky Sheridan 22

this experiment - apart from as a spectacular waste of time. (I mean, really, this is what experimental social psychologists do?)

Googling ‘Shelly Taylor Salience Attention and Attributions’ brought up a number of very interesting results, including a link to a book by someone called Robert Cialdini, a Professor of Psychology and Marketing who knew? - who usefully explains how the experiment proves what he calls the ‘what’sfocal-is-presumed-casual phenomenon’.

According to Cialdini, this phenomenon helps to explain all sorts of troubling and peculiar things. Like, why do some stories and ideas become popular? Why might miscarriages of justice occur? And - perhaps most importantly - why does my boss always get credit for my work? Some odd little experiment conducted in the 1970s might just be able to solve this ancient mystery.

In Cialdini’s words, ‘Leaders […] are accorded a much larger causal position than they typically deserve in the success or failure of the teams, groups, and organizations they head […] an analysis showed that the average employee in a large corporation is paid one half of 1 percent of what the CEO is paid. If that discrepancy seems hard to account for on grounds of economic or social fairness, perhaps we can account for it on other grounds: the person at the top is visually prominent, psychologically salient, and hence, assigned an unduly causal role in the course of events.’

So, next time you’re asking for a pay rise, remember to cite Taylor and Fiske, ‘Salience, Attention and Attributions: Top of the Head Phenomenon’, Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, volume 11 (1978).

Who says academics are good for nothing?

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05-02-2020 21:00:28

InsideTrack Ulster Tatler gives you our top picks for this month.

Check Out

Trailblazing luxury British multibrand retail FLANNELS has opened the doors to its latest store, a 30,000 sq.ft luxury space in the heart of Victoria Square. The new FLANNELS Belfast houses a selection of carefully curated men’s and women’s luxury designer clothing and accessories. From runway collections to the latest streetwear drops, the store’s brand portfolio spans the hottest emerging designers and luxury’s biggest names including Balenciaga, Valentino, Saint Laurent, Off-White and Balmain. The Belfast store also boasts the first FLANNELS Café & Bar, which is open from breakfast through to early evening.

Victoria Square, Belfast

OUT AND ABOUT If socialising and sports are your thing, you can now combine the two with Belfast’s latest city centre venue, Franklins Sports Bar. You can enjoy all your favourite sports fixtures (ranging from football, rugby, golf, horse racing and more) at Franklins across 11 HD screens and their 6.5 metre mega screen. As well as watching sport you can hang out on the top floor gaming area, complete with pool tables, beer pong and dart boards. You can also enjoy a range of tasty dishes from their food menu, including; pizza, tacos, loaded hot dogs, wings, ribs and their famous pizza fries.

43 Franklin Street, Belfast

Eat & Drink

Following on from the success of the main café, Established Coffee have opened an ‘Established To Go’ situated just across from the original site on Hill Street. This new venture allows loyal customers and people who are on the go to avail of a take-away service that is fast and efficient. As well as offering coffee and hot drinks, there is a small seasonal take-away food menu, such as Guilt Trip Donuts or savoury swirls.

Hill Street, Belfast

EST 1979

Retail Showroom of the Year Finalist 2018 3 Mulnafye Road, Mountfield, Omagh BT79 0PG Tel: 028 8077 1226 www.mountfieldkitchens.co.uk

EDITED BY Nuala meenehan

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

Claire Weston and Aimee Crichton.

Janine Wells, Barbara Speccnia, Carla Reddy, Jean Cremin and Fiona McCann.

Channel 4 has it covered!

Some of Northern Ireland’s best known names in advertising gathered at Titanic Hotel for a special preview of this Spring’s programming from Channel 4. Janine Wells and Fiona McCann at Medialink hosted the breakfast preview event which saw more than a serving of great TV. Highlights include The Great Stand Up to Cancer Celebrity Bake Off in aid of Stand Up to Cancer.

Celebrities include, James Blunt, Kelly Brook, Ovie Soko, Alison Hammond, Caroline Quentin, Louis Theroux, Alex Jones, and Scarlett Moffatt . Racing fans are entertained with Formula 1, Australian and Bahrain highlights.

Baghdad Central is back along with Home, First Dates, 24 Hours in A&E, The Undateables, The Windsors, The Last Leg and much more. Hot new shows include Five Guys A Week, a brand new dating show where one female dates and lives with five guys in one week hoping to find her perfect match (the mind boggles!). Look out for Duncanville, the brand new animation from FOX featuring Golden Globe winner Amy Poehler, hotly anticipated to rival the success of much loved The Simpsons and South Park.

The Channel 4 team: David Monahan, Fiona McCann, Janine Wells and Marcus Bellamy.

Sarah Kennedy and Kathryn Fry. Charles Fulton, Wendy McWilliams and Robert Lyle.

Fiona McCann (CH4) and Steven Johnston.

Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Channel 4’s got great TV covered.

Tom Boyd and Fiona Mort.

26

visit katriona.com 6-8 Scarva Street, Banbridge, BT32 3DA Tel 028 406 29768 www.katriona.com

EDITED BY Nuala meenehan

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

Maureen Connolly and Mairead McMahon with the Delizia husband and wife team Nicholas and Philly D’Uva.

Tony Axon and Patrick Quigley.

Katie McTernan and granny Jacinta Murphy.

From Italy with Love When I mentioned to my husband we were booked on an Italian Cookery class learning to make pasta, I was given a rather lukewarm reception (I think the rugby was on that day). After some persuading we headed to Delizia at Belfast Boat Club, Stranmillis. The newly opened Italian restaurant and cookery school is run by head chef Philly d’Uva and her sous chef husband Nicola Attianese.

Aprons on and ready to cook, this husband and wife team joined 20 fellow cookery fans learning to make pasta from scratch. On the menu Orecchiette (little ears), a beautiful broccoli sauce from Puglia and some homemade Gnocchi. After much kneading and a little rest (the pasta not the husband!) we were ready to cook. Let no one ever tell you dried pasta tastes the same as homemade. It does not. Our creations were simply sublime. Delizia’s mission statement is ‘From Italy with Love’. This couple couldn’t agree more!

For further information on Delizia restaurant and cookery school at Belfast Boat Club visit www.deliziaitaliancuisine.com

Yvonne Kilpatrick, Philly D’Uva and Tanya McKinley.

Carol Boyd and Nuala Meenehan.

Mairead McMahon and Maureen Connolly.

28

Philly and husband Nicholas from Delizia authentic Italian cuisine.

www.fultons.net

Tel: 02838 325768

fultons

55 Queen Street Lurgan, BT66 8BL

THE SCENE

Heather Moffitt, Anna Welsh, Leigh McQuaid, Becky Marcus, Niamh McLaughlin and Amy Bloomfield.

St r a n m il l iS formal 2020

Grace McCready, Naomi Crawford and Rebekah Dougan.

The 2020 Stranmillis Formal saw 450 students attend, making it one of the most popular formals in the College’s history. The night was a great success which was down to the Crowne Plaza hosting a memorable occasion. Students enjoyed a three course meal which was followed by evening entertainment by Chris Pollock and his team hosting the yearly awards. The dance floor was busy right up until 1am as well as the s’mores, photo booth and candycart.

Lucy McCluskey, Megan Hawthorne, Aaron Robinson, Katie Robinson and Hannah Breen.

Scott McIlwaine and Adam Harrison.

Katie McCardle, Lucy Ross and Jessica Orr. 30

Emma Littler and Suzanna Scott.

Evie Greenwood and Tiffany Glenn.

Ross Currie and Niamh McLaughlin.

Continued on page 32

TOM MORROW Dungannon | Cookstown | Portadown Email: shop@tommorrows.com

THE SCENE Continued from page 30

Ellie Large, Lydia Montgomery and Katie Megarry.

BR: Gavin Torney, Chris Pollock, Andrew Smyth, Adam Kewley.

FR: Daniel McKnight, Jamie Ashenhurst and Lenin Stevenson.

Shannon Barlow, Luke McKillion, Sarah Miller, Beth McCrossan and Cassey Griffin.

Emma Purdy, Ellen Tate and Evy Currie.

Heather McCready, Nadine Timoney, Chloe Gillis and Zoe Blevins.

Matthew Rice, Caitlin MacKay, Ellie Large and Mike Buchanan.

Jenny Campbell and Meabh Magee.

Lucy McAdam and Bethany Curry.

32

Sophie Wilson and Ryan Elliott.

The Speckled Hen, A Multi-Award-Winning Pub Is One Of Ireland’s Oldest Pubs Dating Back To 1660.

Situated in the ancient Parish of Derriaghy (Doire Achaidh – Field of Oak) on the edge of Milltown Village, the Speckled Hen has a warm, cosy atmosphere and a passion for simple, rustic cuisine, craft beers, ciders and a friendly welcome. Relax in the old bar; enjoy a drink in front of the fire. Or relax in one of the pub’s beer garden cabañas. Try a beer from the pub’s Black Mountain Brewery or savour one of our Hen’s Blend spirits.

Choose from a selection of great pub food presented at its very best in one of our dining rooms or eat on the outdoor patio.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Speckled Hen.

47 Derriaghy Road, Lisburn BT28 3SH Tel: 028 9061 1113 Email: speckledhenlisburn@gmail.com

www.speckledhenlisburn.com

THE SCENE

Elected members of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council celebrate the Freedom of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh being awarded to Alderman Jim Dillon MBE JP, Mrs Geraldine Rice MBE and Mr Tommy Jeffers alongside distinguished guests and family.

Pictured after signing the Burgess Book officially recording their new status as Freemen of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh are Mr Tommy Jeffers, Alderman Jim Dillon MBE JP and Mrs Geraldine Rice MBE with the Mayor, Councillor Alan Givan and Mr David Burns, Chief Executive.

COUNCIL BESTOWED HIGHEST ACCOLADE TO THREE LONG SERVING POLITICAL REPRESENTATIVES The Freedom of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh was bestowed on Alderman Jim Dillon MBE JP, Mrs Geraldine Rice MBE and Mr Tommy Jeffers on Saturday 8th February 2020. This honour is in recognition of their contribution to public life within Lisburn Castlereagh and beyond collectively for nearly a century. They have demonstrated their commitment to better the council area for its residents, helping to deliver new facilities and services and boost the local economy through construction, economic development and tourism. www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured with the trees planted by new Freemen of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Mr Tommy Jeffers, Mrs Geraldine Rice MBE and Alderman Jim Dillon MBE JP are Macebearer Jack Adair MBE, Chief Executive Mr David Burns, the Mayor Councillor Alan Givan and Mayoress Elizabeth Givan.

The Rt Hon Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP signing the guest books at the Freedom of the City event.

The Mayor, Councillor Alan Givan helps Mr Tommy Jeffers son David plant the tree in recognition of the Freedom of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh being awarded to his dad Mr Tommy Jeffers.

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Elected members of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council support the conferment of the Freedom of the City of Lisburn & Castlereagh on Alderman Jim Dillon MBE JP, Mrs Geraldine Rice and Mr Tommy Jeffers.

The event held at Lagan Valley Island.

Seefin provided entertainment at the event.

34

“From Our Farmyard to your Freezer”

There is a dairy farm on the Ards Peninsula in Northern Ireland which has been home to the Taylor family since 1856. Twelve years ago this family began making real “Farm Fresh” ice cream and have recently diversified further into “Vegan Assured Sorbet” to fulfill the demand of the Northern-Irish public. By spending 10 years honing their craft in the production of the finest quality ice creams and most recently sorbet, Glastry Farm Ice Cream are proud to supply many independent stores and hotels across Northern Ireland along with their newest business partner “Eurospar Northern Ireland”. Make sure to keep an eye out for the little pink cow on every tub of their Premium Retail Range, right across Northern Ireland in your local store and Eurospar.

“Supporting local people and the art of supplying real, locally produced, Award Winning Food, is what motivates us” Will J Taylor, OBE (MD).

Email Enquiries: rory.glastryfarm@btconnect.com Telephone:07927289901 or 02842738671

THE SCENE

Olivia Mitchell, Mollie Sawyer, Nicole Hamilton, Jessica Roose and Emma Burns.

Lauren Finlay and Destinee Todd.

B loom fi e ld c ol leg i a t e for m a l Students from Bloomfield Collegiate School gathered for one of the most anticipated events in the school calendar at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Bangor. Many of the glamorous young ladies wore elegant ball gowns and their plus ones looked smart in their evening suits. With its sumptuous dinner, fantastic music and a great opportunity to share stories, Bloomfield’s Class of 2020 Formal was the perfect night to celebrate the Year 14’s school career. The school would like to thank all the students and staff who made it such a memorable occasion.

Morgan Legge, Logan Beattie, Shannon Johnson and Josh Davidson.

Callum Gibson and Niamh Russell.

Teachers Gary Greer, Keith McManus and Chris Turner.

Megan Edwards, Andrew McCoubrey and Emily Guest.

Morgan Legge, Kirsten Ferran and Leah Maghie.

36

Emma Burns and Toby Welsh.

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Campbell College Pipes and Drums.

Campbell College Pipes and Drums play to the crowd in Cornmarket, Belfast.

BIG BURNS DAY This year the Ulster-Scots Agency celebrated Burns with a weeklong programme of events. The week culminated with a Big Burns Day at Belfast City Hall. Schools and community groups from all over the city came together to learn about Robert Burns, his connections to Belfast and impact on the culture of the UlsterScots community.

The morning session was opened by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Danny Baker; and at the evening reception, Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey MLA, launched the Agency’s newest publication, Belfast’s Bonnie Burns.

www.ulsterscotsagency.com Robert Burns Live in Cornmarket.

Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Crozier, Belfast High Sheriff Nicola Verner, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA.

.

Piper, Alan McCormick, Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Crozier, Cllr Daniel Baker, Lord Mayor of Belfast.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA, Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Crozier, Belfast High Sheriff Nicola Verner and Belfast Deputy Lord Lieutenant Mukesh Sharma MBE.

Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Crozier laying a wreath at the statue of Robert Burns in Belfast’s Linen Hall Library.

38

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THE SCENE

Alison Armstong, Harry Armstrong, Hannah Todd and Amy Armstrong.

Simon, Aoibhin and Conor Hutchinson.

RYANI ANNuAl AwARds Dedicated volunteers from across Northern Ireland were recognised at RYANI’s Annual Awards ceremony in Belfast. The awards, which celebrate the successes and people involved across recreational and competitive boating, took place at Riddel Hall in Stranmillis. This year the prestigious awards were sponsored by Garden Rooms NI, Carrick Marine and White Noise. Around 100 people attended the awards, which are a key event in the sailing calendar each year. Michael Ferguson, from Ballyholme Yacht Club, was guest speaker and gave an inspirational talk on the night. Speaking about the awards, RYANI’s Chair Jackie Patton recognised the vital importance of volunteers, shining a light on the impact of those who had been nominated.

Tom Brown, Brian Lennox, Steve Dickson and Katie Johnston.

Gemma McCoubrey and Ann Blair.

Mary Martin, Denise Watson and Richard Honeyford.

Roger Woodward and John Patrick.

Barbara Woodward and Gillian McAdam.

40

Brian Campbell and Johnny Millar.

Continued on page 42

THE SCENE Continued from page 40

Richard Honeyford and Peter Kennedy.

Fred Campbell, Jill Campbell, Lindsay Nolan and Fred Nolan.

Henry Anstey, Rosie Baird, Susan McKnight and Mary Martin.

Lisa and Ethan McCormack and James Farrell.

Robin and Betty Armstrong.

Colin Gracey and David Williams.

Debbie, Katie and David Nelson.

Heather Kane, Emma Gallagher, Lucy Kane, Katie Kane and Cynthia Gallagher.

Ross Nolan and Michael Ferguson.

David and Susan Maxwell.

42

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Abigail Waring, Holly Jamison and Kaitlyn Manson.

Lily Hamilton, Karl Jenkins, Caitlyn Stewart, Lewis Thompson, Thomas Lennon and Sophie Adair.

B al ly c la re se c o nda ry sc h oo l f o rm a l Ballyclare Secondary School formal was held at the Galgorm Resort and Spa. Pupils from years 12, 13 and 14 attended the very popular event and were supported by a large number of the school teaching staff. The event was well planned and organised by the school Formal Committee. The doors opened at 6.30pm and young people gathered for photographs, followed by the opportunity to share a delicious meal together and then have some fun as they joined in with the games and rewards ceremony.

The dancing began at 10.00 pm with the evening drawing to a close at 1.00 am. It was a lovely and thoroughly enjoyable evening and the school would like to thank staff at Galgorm Resort and Spa for hosting the formal.

John Cairns, Jessica McClelland, Sophie Sommerville and Graeme Coulter.

Cerys Corken and Peter McBride.

Khadiza Uddin, Jayne Boyd and Jill Oliver.

Michael Colym, Aimee Park, Kieran Ferguson, Eva McCrory, Abbie Jordan and Lucas Lamont.

Marcus Jenkins, Oran Lorimer and Rhys Lorimer.

44

Paul and Samantha Marks.

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THE SCENE

Tom and Anne Rowan, Bernadette and Peter Marshall, Frank Mitchell, Paul and Sheila Fitzpatrick.

Kathryn and John Morrissey (Chair of the Board of Governors).

Auction winner Peter Marshall with local artist Tony Bell.

Rathm o R e G al a B a ll It was a night to remember as Rathmore Grammar School officially launched its Alumni and Friends at the inaugural Gala Ball in the Titanic, Belfast.

The evening of celebration began with a welcome from the school Principal, Mrs Thérèse Hamilton, who set the scene for a night of great craic, with the chance to renew friendships and indulge in a little nostalgia. She expressed her hope that the Gala Ball would be the beginning of many reunions and opportunities for supporters of the school to reconnect and share in the school’s vision of supporting our young people to have every opportunity that is available to them.

Principal’s words of welcome from Théresè Hamilton.

Sisters Kirsten McGarrity, Kerry Barrett and Zoe McConnell.

Senior Prefects and members of the String Quartet who welcomed guests on arrival.

The String Quartet – Katie Boyle, Jason Ho, Anna Young, Aidan Graham.

Sister Ursula Canavan with a group of guests at the Gala Ball.

46

Sheila Fitzpatrick, Jason O’Neill and Bernadette Marshall.

Thomas McKeogh speaking with Sister Ursula Canavan.

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Henry Jordan and Brian Berry.

David Walker, Darryl Mooney and Darrell Kinkaid.

Kyle Geddis and Rodney McShane.

Lurga n r F C Spo r t S m a n ’ S d in n er

Lurgan Rugby Football & Cricket Club recently hosted the annual Sportsman’s Dinner with guest speaker, Tommy Bowe, at Pollockpark Clubhouse. Tommy Bowe was a former Irish Rugby Union player who was one of the best wingers for Ulster, Ireland and the British & Irish Lions. The evening consisted of a three-course meal, a series of raffles and a Q&A with Tommy Bowe, who won 69 caps with Ireland and five tests for the Lions. The evening was compered by local TV personality Adrian Logan and was also attended

by Louis Ludik, Schalk Van Der Merwe, the ABC Council Lord Mayor Mealla Campbell, local MP Carla Lockhart and Jacob Stockdale’s parents, Janine and Graham Stockdale.

Peadar McConville, Alan Moffitt, Tanya Moffitt and Samuel Brothwell.

Alan Briggs, Ronan Cregan, Gordon Bell, Dick McClune, David Marshall and Wilson Briggs.

Schalk Van Der Merwe, Adrian Logan, Raymond Acheson, Mayor Mealla Campbell, MP Carla Lockhart, Andrew Davis, Tommy Bowe and Louis Ludik.

David Harvey and John McConnell.

Raymond Acheson, Nicola Richardson and Albert Dunlop.

48

Dave Christie and Lee Derby.

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THE SCENE

UNZT Patron Brian McKnight, Chairman Freddie Hall and New Zealand honorary Consul Sinclair Stockman.

Andy Ward and Jim Neilly.

Ul ster ne w z ea l a n d tr Ust a nnUa l l U n c h The Ulster New Zealand Trust at The Ballance House has been holding an annual lunch and talk for over 20 years to recognise Waitangi Day. The speaker at The Ballance House this year was Jim Neilly who recounted very humorous stories to UNZT members and guests of his broadcasting and travel around the world with the BBC for over 40 years, including coverage of Ulster and Irish rugby and boxing.This year’s Dilworth tutors, Paolo Aquino, Anthony Bray and Isaac Vaeau-Mulitalo performed a most inspiring haka for guests.

Some special guests included Mayor Cllr Alan Givan & Mayoress LCCC; David Burns, Chief Executive Officer LCCC; Jonathan Saint, New Zealand Ireland Association, Sinclair Stockman, Hon. New Zealand Consul and Brian McKnight, Patron of UNZT.

UNZT Chairman Freddie Hall with Jonathan Saint (NZ Ireland Association).

Paolo Aquino, UNZT Chairman Freddie Hall, Anthony Bray and Isaac Vaeau-Mulitalo.

John Davidson and Betty Wilson.

Mr and Mrs Kingsley-Singer.

Maeve Campbell and Sandra Dorman.

Lisburn City Chief Executive David Burns, Lisburn & Castlereagh Mayoress Elizabeth Givan, UNZT Chairman Freddie Hall and Mayor Alan Givan.

50

THE SCENE

Sam McManus, Sarah Venning, Duncan Gracie and Paul Harper.

Paul Johnston and Joan McCoy.

AEco m 2 0 2 0 i rEl A n d r EviE w lA u nc h The AECOM 2020 Ireland Review was launched in Ten Square Hotel, Belfast, recently. This year’s Review, ‘Foundations of Future Growth’, focused on building a connected, sustainable Ireland. On the night, Trevor Leaker (AECOM), opened the proceedings which was then followed by a panel discussion with several industry leaders including Trevor Anderson (Infrastructure and Business Transformation Director, Belfast Harbour), Sara Venning (Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Water), Chris Conway (Group Chief Executive, Translink), Andrew Murray (Deputy Secretary, Department for Infrastructure) and Tim Robinson (Regional Director, AECOM).

Ian Newiss and Paul Cameron.

U.S. Consul Elizabeth Kennedy-Trudeau and Trevor Leaker.

Panel members: Trevor Anderson, Chris Conway, Sarah Venning, Andrew Murray and Tim Robinson.

Norman Blair and Sally Blair.

Una Somerville, Ian Turkington and Cathy Williamson.

52

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THE SCENE

Jenny Lusk, Lewis and Rosemary Lowry, Marian Cave, Brian Lusk and Andra and Raymund Martin.

Ash-Lee Brown, Megan Hamill, Lucy Morgan and Mary McLeigh launching the Gatsby Themed Gin Bar at the Randox Ulster National.

RANDOX ANNOUNCED AS NEW SPONSOR OF THE ULSTER NATIONAL AT DOWNPATRICK RACECOURSE Downpatrick Racecourse, winner of the ‘Sports Venue of the Year’ in both 2018 and 2019 at the Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards, hosts the €50,000 Randox Ulster National, on Sunday 22nd March 2020. Randox was founded in 1982 by medical scientist and keen horseman Dr Peter FitzGerald. Their five-year sponsorship of the Ulster National sees Randox expand their racing sponsorship portfolio which includes the Randox Health Aintree Grand National. The Randox Ulster National is one of the most historic races on the racing calendar. The race was first run in 1939 and has a long and illustrious history. www.downpatrickracecourse.co.uk Peter Stewart, Mrs Nuailin and Dr Peter FitzGerald and Richard Lyttle.

Richard Lyttle, Willie Robinson, Pamela Ballantine.

Ruth Morrison and Barbara White.

. Marc Coppez, Aileen Goatley, Paddy Walsh, Clive Cottrell and Barbara White.

Senator Ian Marshall, Lesa Marshall and Robert Nixon.

54

Zara Price, Angharad FitzGerald and Jason Webster.

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Team photo with owner, Nayem Samad.

Jeff Wood, Ahad Miah and Katie McClean.

Ruairi Shivers, Orla Shivers (Interior designer for the café, Orla Higgins Design), Brea Shivers, Nicola Gibson and Jack Gibson.

Leigh Cockcroft and Kristen Shields.

Eve Hall.

Guests enjoying the launch of Caffe Zaza.

Owner, Nayem Samad.

Supervisor Kristen Shields, Assistant Manager Nicole Barr and Manager Missie Mc Crum.

Welcoming you to Caffe Zaza Welcoming you to Caffe Zaza, a new innovative café, catering to all with our industrial chic look and diverse menu. Located in the heart of Ballyhackamore, East Belfast on the Upper Newtownards Road, Caffe Zaza brings you simple, hearty food, milkshakes and smoothies, scrumptious bakery, Lavazza coffee, which is the number one coffee in Italy, and the most famous ice cream in Ireland, Morellis. All our efforts has been made to bring that London/Dubai feel to Belfast, and hopefully create a new experience you won’t forget.

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Award winning medical clinic for anti-wrinkle injections, facial fillers, facial contouring and lip enhancement. As well as skincare specialists offering Epionce peels/skincare, IPL photorejuvenation and other revolutionary skin treatments.

“MANTOX” – A MAN’S NEW BEST FRIEND

With anti-wrinkle injections for women now as common-place as a visit to the hairdresser. It was a natural progression that at some stage men would get in on the act. Savvy men are beginning to realise that looking good is not a femaleonly privilege... and so ‘Mantox’ has emerged.

Men have undergone a radical transformation in how they look after their skin, many starting to invest in their own skincare or simply poaching their partner’s.

This has sparked a great interest in anti-wrinkle injections to soften lines and wrinkles and promote a freshened appearance.

therefore the dilutions used need to be tailored to account for that. These strong muscle groups can cause deep furrows on the forehead and between the eyebrows. Injection of the correct dosage of solution into these muscles will result in the areas softening, making the whole face look naturally fresher and altogether more relaxed. It is essential that Mantox looks natural and never frozen, indeed men generally do not want others to know they have had a procedure done and prefer to look as though they have just come back from a relaxing holiday.

When considering ‘Mantox’ men should do their homework before deciding on a practitioner and ensure that they choose a medical professional who is experienced with injecting men as well as women. At Woodford Medical, we have been injecting for over twenty years and have a wealth of practical experience to ensure that every man as well as every woman feels happy and confident when they leave our clinic.

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THE SCENE

Cllr John McClaughry with Pete and Sadie Keogh.

Harry Currie, Siobhán Currie (Chair of Fermanagh & Omagh District Coucil) with Erin and Cllr Stephen McCann.

Frank O rm s b y h On O ure d b y cOun c i l Local poet, Frank Ormsby, was honoured at a civic reception in the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen, recently. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, led by Chair Siobhán Currie, hosted the event to mark Ormsby’s appointment as the Ireland Professor of Poetry.

Friends, family and councillors listened while the poet spoke fondly of his early life in Irvinestown, education at St. Michael’s College, Enniskillen, and the lasting impact the people and places of Fermanagh have had on his poetry, including his most recent collection The Rain Barrel, published in October 2019.

Seamus and Kathleen Ormsby with Sheila Donnelly and Teresa Quinn.

Michael and Cllr Josephine Deehan.

Jean McAteer, Jim Rogers, Frank and Karen Ormsby, Helen Ormsby and Mathew Smyth.

Cllr Victor Warrington, Cllr Alex Baird, Cllr Paul Blake and Cllr Howard Thornton.

Gabriel Fox, Celine McCartan (Acting CE of Fermanagh & Omagh District Council) along with Cllr Robert Irvine.

58

Cllr Alan Rainey with Murial Mitchell.

The Belfast

Rheumatology Clinic Joint, tendon and muscle pain or stiffness can be due to many different rheumatic conditions ranging from those that are mild and self limiting to more serious inflammatory disorders. In many cases the earlier these conditions are diagnosed and treated the better the long term outcome.

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he Belfast Rheumatology Clinic has been established by a partnership of three Northern Ireland Consultant Rheumatologists, Dr Andrew Cairns, Dr Adrian Pendleton and Dr Gary Wright. It is the first clinic in Northern Ireland dedicated solely to the investigation, diagnosis and management of patients with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.

There are over 200 rheumatic disorders ranging from common musculoskeletal conditions such as tendonosis and bursitis (often related to work or sport) and arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and gout) to rare complex multi-system immune -

mediated disorders such as vasculitis and connective tissue disease.

The partners have over 30 years of combined clinical experience at consultant level in rheumatology, both in the National Health Service and the private sector.

The driving principal of the Belfast Rheumatology Clinic is to provide a centre of excellence for the diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic disorders. All patients will have access to the skills of the multidisciplinary team of nurse specialists, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and podiatrist.

Dr Adrian Pendleton

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For appointments contact: The Belfast Rheumatology Clinic | Medical Associates | 25 Derryvolgie Avenue | Belfast | BT9 6FN 028 9038 2202 | www.thebelfastrheumatologyclinic.co.uk | secretary@medical-associates.co.uk

The Word

THE SEARCH IS NOW ON... FOR THE CUTEST KIDS Marie Allen Photography has teamed up with Ulster Tatler for the cutest kids promotional photo shoot and competition.

Entry is now open, categories include; 3-23 months and 2-4 years. All entries will be judged by the Ulster Tatler and the winners will be announced in September 2020.

Winners will receive a professional portfolio, ÂŁ100 cash and a special profile feature in the Ulster Tatler.

Promotional shoot cost is ÂŁ25 and includes one 8x6 gift print and entry into competition.

For more details and to book your shoot call: 028 3835 1055 or email: marie@marieallen.co.uk

60

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13th

01

02

FASHION BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR

INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

SPA OF THE YEAR

09

10

11

12

SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR

CELEBRITY OF THE YEAR

PERSONAL TRAINER OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL DESIGN PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Tell us the name of your top locally owned boutique.

The category covers everything from clothes stores, to shoe shops and everything in between.

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

THE LOBSTER POT

In this category just let us know the name of your favourite Interior Designer.

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

03

Tell us which spa you think deserves to win the title of Spa of the Year.

Which spa has worked wonders for you?

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

04 HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Which hotel stands out to you as top class in everything from hospitality to food service? Here’s your chance to recognise their effort.

Let us know your favourite public space for example hotel lobby, hair salon, office, retail outlet etc. It should be aesthetically pleasing and well designed. All we need is the name of the business you are voting for and where it is situated.

KEENS LAUNCH 2020 AWARDS

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

Keens are the 2020 Title Sponsors of the Ulster Tatler Awards.

TO VOTE, GO TO WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM

05

06

07

08

BEAUTY SALON OF THE YEAR

COFFEE HOUSE OF THE YEAR

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

HAIRDRESSING SALON OF THE YEAR

In this category you can vote for any salon in Ulster. Which beauty salon do you always leave feeling amazing.

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

DESIGN HOUSE

14

BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR

BUSINESS MAN OF THE YEAR

All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win.

DESIGN HOUSE 15 WRIGHTS16 BEST DRESSED ON THE NIGHT

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

THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS IS MIDNIGHT ON WEDNESDAY 1ST JULY 2020.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

How to vote?

It’s simple, just pick the category and the company/person you want to vote for at ulstertatler.com, following the guidelines below. Just remember that we are looking for local companies/people who have made a significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland and you can vote for as many categories as you want. A shortlist for each category will be published in the August edition of Ulster Tatler. An independent judging panel will then decide on the winner for each category. Please note that the decision of the judges is final and no correspondence will be entered into. If you are voting for someone in categories 1 to 12, all you need to do is let us know the name of the person or company you are voting for, along with their company contact details, where appropriate. For categories 13 and 14 in addition to their name, contact details and category, please forward a short statement (maximum 500 words) on why the entry should win. Categories 15-17 are not voted on by the public. Whoever you vote for must be from Northern Ireland or based here. All short listed nominees must be prepared to take part in pre and post show event publicity.

In order for your vote to count you must fill in all your contact details.

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

TO VOTE, GO TO WWW.ULSTERTATLER.COM EVENT PARTNERS

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

WRIGHTS

13 All we need is the name and company of the person you are voting for along with a statement of up to 500 words on why they should win.

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

TM

EVENTS FREAKISHLY GOOD EVENTS MANAGEMENT.

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD

Previous recipients include the Northern Ireland football team and Ulster rugby legends Andrew Trimble and Tommy Bowe. This award is not voted on by the public.

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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

This award is given to someone who has made significant contribution to life in Northern Ireland.

Past winners include Pat Jennings, Ciaran Hinds, Marie Jones, Gerry Armstrong, Michael Longley, Barry McGuigan, Dame Mary Peters, Brian Friel, Sir James Galway, Gloria Hunniford, Phil Coulter and Terri Hooley.

This category is not voted on by the public.

LADY MAC Following record attendances at Belfast’s cultural hub, the MAC, CEO Anne McReynolds ponders questions of art, gender and why her cafe produces the best brownies in town.

Picture courtesy of Press Eye. 64

Jane Hardy

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

It must have been something to do with the date. Interviewing Anne McReynolds, CEO of Belfast’s award-winning cultural hub, the MAC, on Valentine’s Day initially brought out the risque in our conversation. She mentioned she’d been listening to a topical edition of Woman’s Hour. “You’ll have to catch it on iPlayer,” she enthused. “There’s this guy mansplaining his way around his wife’s erogenous zones.” That wasn’t actually the phrase she used - Anne references the famous scene in Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine and we both have a giggle. Anne adds: “This is ordinary for us at the MAC, it’s how we roll.”

More like rock and roll. Maybe the grown-up touch is unsurprising for the arts venue that has stretched the boundaries of our artistic taste for the last eight years from its brutalist concrete HQ in the Cathedral Quarter. We’ve seen Gilbert and George’s magnificently homo-erotic paintings (2018), David Hockney’s art which made quite a splash in 2016 and later this year, we’ll see Ambera Wellmann’s paintings of nude women having a good time, like smudged Venuses executed

by Francis Bacon. The main MAC stage also premiered Leesa Harker’s raunchy Northern Irish version of E.L. James’s Fifty Shades of Grey (50 Shades of Red, White and Blue).

So in cultural terms, the MAC - which opened in 2012 as the new version of our city’s Metropolitan Arts Centre that used to inhabit a period building near Inst - is definitely innovative. They provided a Brexit related show recently and you can routinely tune into art shows or exercise your funny bone with Roxy Tumbledryer’s Cleared for Take off.

After being provided with an ace chocolate cake and latte from the MAC’s ground floor café (“We’ve taken it back in house and our brownies are the best in town.”) Ms McReynolds and I get serious. After all, the MAC belongs to the people and is described

by Anne as “an agent for social change that can improve people’s life chances here which is also an answer to Boris Johnson (she is referring, of course, to the Conservative Government’s continuing austerity regime)”.

The MAC is funded by us via Belfast City Council, to the tune of £75,000 annually although their principal sponsor is the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

So what does Anne, an implausible 54, feel a theatre is ultimately about. “Fun,” she says immediately, adding, “Yes, the MAC is at the forefront of the best contemporary art and theatre from Northern Ireland and around the world. But it’s also a place you can just come in and hang out and enjoy an excellent cup of coffee and one of the best brownies in Belfast.” That comment is reminiscent of the way the Victoria & Albert Museum promoted itself under Roy Strong in the 1980s as a great cafe with a museum attached.

But it isn’t all about the food. Ms McReynolds enthuses about a forthcoming

event involving distinguished director David Puttnam (Chariots of Fire) whose early work featured Northern Ireland and the Troubles.

“They found a 1972 film that he’d made about the Troubles. He’ll be in conversation with Bernadette Devlin McAliskey.” With understatement, Anne notes it should be an “interesting encounter”.

Of course, there is competition out there with the Lyric Theatre and the Grand Opera House. Is she bothered? Anne answers immediately. “No, it’s complementary. If someone goes to the Lyric for theatre one night, they can come here and get something different, while the Grand Opera House does West End shows. Jimmy (Fay) and Ian (Wilson) and I get together regularly to see what’s going on.” However, Anne McReynolds is justifiably proud of the attendance record for 20192020, breaking their record at 250,000 bums on seats.

“I actually think the reason Northern Ireland punches above its weight in terms of the arts is because we had the Troubles and needed something to heal us.”

The arts sector is vital to Belfast’s renaissance and Anne had just hotfooted it to our interview from a big funding meeting with stakeholders in the multi-million pound re-development of the city centre. Ann notes with humour the clash of business and creativity. “Every time somebody mentioned

the arts, they kind of looked at me as if I was about to bite someone’s head off for being in the wrong room or misspeaking! It’s nonsense because our brand is warm and welcoming.

But I’m enthusiastic about the regeneration and city development which looks great.”

Anne adds that she believes in total access for everybody but that nobody should beat themselves up if they don’t like a particular piece of modern art or theatre. “It may not be them, it just may not be a good production.”

Yet the arts need economics to thrive. A couple of years ago, the MAC was on the critical list, alongside the Ulster Orchestra, but was happily saved to fight for truth and beauty if you’re in a Keatsian mood. The centre’s top worker says that she survived this period via her core beliefs in the MAC’s purpose. “I fervently believe in what we do here. It matters.”

Anne’s background makes her ideally suited to the job. She is married to filmmaker Terry Loane and they form an artistic power couple. She has four children, now making their way in the world. Her second son wants to act, against Noel Coward’s advice about Mrs Worthington not sending her daughter on the stage. “We are waiting to see if he’s got into the Royal Welsh College of Speech and Drama.” The others aren’t following their parents’ prestigious path.

On Valentine’s Day, Anne and her husband didn’t buy into the heart-shaped event or buy roses. “We view it as a commercial construct, so no. I did the washing on Valentine’s evening.”

On the more important question of how she wants to be remembered, she says, “I’m not sure I want to be remembered at all. But I’d like to think I helped provide Belfast with top class art. I actually think the reason Northern Ireland punches above its weight in terms of the arts is because we had the Troubles and needed something to heal us.”

She’s clearly very good at her job. www.maclive.com

Anne McReynolds, MAC International winner Jasmina Cibic and Charlotte Church in the MAC's Sunken Gallery.

Anne McReynolds celebrates the MAC's 5th Birthday in 2017 with a young arts attender.

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THE VINTAGE TIME TRAVELLERS

I

n November 2019, an exciting new business launched in the Victorian town of Whitehead. Take a short drive from Belfast along the Shore Road and just 10 minutes from Carrickfergus you will arrive in the heart of this historic seaside town.

The Vintage Time Travellers opened their doors at 31 Balmoral Avenue, Whitehead just in time for the annual Victorian street fair. The shop fit out and refurb was a real labour of love with the work being carried out by the owners to meet the deadline.

Mr. & Mrs. VTT are enthusiastic collectors of vintage furniture, curio and decorative items from every era. With an eye for the unusual and a passion for the detail and history behind the items they source; their style is a mash-up, influenced by their travels in time, of course.

A typical Art Deco period lamp sits alongside an 80s zebra print chair, the

juxtaposition is both exciting and original!

A salvaged steel filing cabinet, circa 1960s, in dark green is marked “ Meenans of Donegal Place, Belfast” and is styled in true Mrs. VTT fashion, so that it wouldn’t look out of place in a lounge or kitchen.

“I feel lucky to have this opportunity to create and style with beautiful time worn objects,” says Mrs. VTT. “I am a strong believer that we don’t need to buy new to have beautiful and interesting interiors.

In today’s climate, we can’t stress highly enough the importance of sustainable interiors. And if you lack the knowledge or confidence to try – we are happy to source objects and style for you.”

The intrepid duo behind The Vintage Time Travellers are Lisa McCormick and Andrew Bridges. Lisa tells us, “We took a wee run into Whitehead for coffee and came home with the keys to a vintage shop by the sea and a new future together.” Andrew recalls that the paint

was still drying on the walls when they first welcomed locals and visitors alike into their little emporium.

“A lot has happened in four months. We have introduced Andrew’s wonderfully nostalgic dinky toy collection to the range.

There is pre-loved fashion and a book section is underway. We were delighted to recently welcome local celebrity and fellow vintage lover Joe Lindsay for some banter and browsing.”

Balmoral Avenue, Whitehead Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11am - 4.30pm E: thevintagetimetravellers@gmail.com

To say thank you to all our customers, from Whitehead 2020 and beyond; we are offering you 10% off in store when you mention ‘Tatler 2020’.

ULSTER TATLER

S T Y L E THE MUST-HAVE FOR FASHIONISTAS

Style Watch EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED AT ONE OF NI’S HOTTEST EVENTS. Jess McKinney, Noah Swinney and Katerina Poartner, pictured at the review reception of Ursula Burke’s new exhibition, A False Dawn, at the Ulster Museum, show how a simple black ensemble can be given a new lease of life by incorporating bold prints and eyecatching accessories.

Jess McKinney, Noah Swinney and Katerina Poartner.

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U T

S T Y L E

MY STYLE As said by fashion guru Coco Chanel: “fashion changes, but style endures“. Each issue, we introduce you to stylish local people who enviably manage demanding work schedules while looking polished to perfection.

Ashlee Coburn

Influencer and Fashion Blogger How did it feel to win Fashion Influencer of the Year at the Social Media Awards NI? Winning influencer of the year was a very surreal moment for me. The truth is I am not sure how my Instagram came to be what it is today; I never intended it to be a fashion/lifestyle blog, it was a hobby that turned into something magical. It has opened so many doors and led to so many more amazing opportunities than I could ever dream of. I love what I do and I love that this aspect of my working life has allowed me to spend more time with my baby girl too, I count myself very lucky!

How would you describe your style?

My style will change from time to time, but I like to think of myself as classy, effortless and chic, and the odd day I will be a little extra with a touch of sass. I am also guilty of being influenced by other girls. But I always tend to look out for statement pieces, the cut and shape of a garment will intrigue me and this season I am loving the neutral colour palette. Style to me is so personal, I don’t necessarily wear what is on trend, I wear what complements my shape and what I feel confident in.

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

I could not live without two things, a waist belt and heels. Heels for the height I don’t have and a belt to accentuate my waist – my favourite asset.

I love a good pair of non-stretch high waisted mom jeans, tailored blazers and a waist clenching belt. I am also known for my love of sunglasses, even in the winter if I can get away with it.

Do you have a favourite designer or high street brand?

Without a doubt, my hands down favourite place to shop for the last few years has been Zara. I do love Topshop, H&M and Asos, but I never leave Zara without a purchase – I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, bad for the bank balance perhaps. One place I always shop for good quality but affordable statement handbags is Mango, you would be surprised what you can find in there!

Do you have any style icons?

My style icons change from season to season, depending on what trend/ style I am into myself each season. I get inspiration from lots of different girls on social media rather than celebrities. My Insta crushes are; Louisa Grace, Lauren Arthur’s/Love Lauren, Marianne/Smyth Sisters and Amelia Taylor to name but a few.

How has your style changed over the years?

My style has changed dramatically over the years, as I have matured myself ‘like a fine wine’ so has my style. I used to wear bright, bold colours, things I don’t think I could even try and make look fashionable today. As I have transitioned to motherhood my style has progressed to a more sophisticated look, although I still like to keep quite fresh and current.

What are your fashion pet peeves?

My fashion pet peeve is too much of everything going on. I think with fashion you need to know when to stop. Over accessorising can easily happen and the saying is so true sometimes, less is more. I also think makeup plays a big role too in completing an outfit and if you are going to go big and bold with makeup, then stick to a more simplistic style with clothing and vice versa. Don’t scroll too far down my Instagram, I might have made these fashion faux pas in the past too!

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THE SCENE

The Andrew Mulvenna team with the Sassoon Academy art team.

A ndr e w M u lve n n A hAir w o rksh o p w ith v i dA l sAsso o n te A M Andrew Mulvenna Hair brought the legendary and iconic Vidal Sassoon Education team to Belfast for a 5 day classic and contemporary cutting workshop working with all lengths of hair. The ethos of Andrew Mulvenna Hair is to produce expertly crafted, beautiful hair that is balanced, precise and that will truly last. Vidal Sassoon epitomises this ethos as he was revolutionary in his approach to cutting and styling and his work is still globally regarded for its purity, precision and sheer brilliance.

Andrew Mulvenna with Sassoon Academy art directors Leanne McCarthy and Zsolt Nagy.

Sassoon Academy art director Zsolt Nagy.

Sasson art director Leanne McCarthy.

Stylist Amy Cartwright and model Courtney McCann.

Stylist Hugo Santos and Sassoon Academy art director Zsolt Nagy 70

Stylist Amy Cartwright and model Courtney McCann

NOW AVAILABLE AT COUPLES COLERAINE

4-10 Railway Road, Coleraine BT52 1PE

#OnTrend

Ulster Tatler’s Woman Editor, Joanne Harkness looks at all the latest trends in beauty and fashion.

MUM’S THE WORD

Mums do so much for us, it is only right that we have a day dedicated to celebrating how wonderful they are. With Mother’s Day coming up on 22nd March I take a look at some gift ideas to show how much you appreciate the superwomen in your life!

SPLURGE

Iluma Intense Brightening Crème: If your mum suffers from age spots and pigmentation this will be her new hero product. It brightens the skin and contains Vectorize® Technology, which keeps the active ingredients working for up to 48 hours on the skin and Daisy Flower helps brighten dark spots. IMAGE’s unique blend of three different forms of Vitamin C lighten pigmentation, firm and plump your skin, and bring super antioxidant protection. £109.

SPEND

Dinidaring Dune London Handbag: The Dinidaring shopper bag from Dune London is vibrant and spacious, perfect for shopping trips this spring/ summer. £65.

SAVE

Mother’s Day Cushion: ‘Mum You’re Blooming Brilliant’ slogan floral polka dot cushion available from George @ Asda. £7.

Wet n Wild Megaglo Liquid Highlighter in Halographic £4.99

JUST THE VEGANNING

Living a vegan lifestyle is becoming more accessible with restaurants, cafés and food companies all catering towards providing plant-based food and drink. Even the fast food chains are jumping on the trend with KFC creating a vegan, meat-free alternative to their classic chicken fillet and Burger King launching their ‘Rebel Whopper’, a soy based version of the original Whooper burger. Personally, I am not a vegan, in fact I’m not even a vegetarian, however I am making a conscious decision to cut down my meat intake for the health benefits and to do my bit for the planet.

But it is not only food products that can be classed as vegan, the beauty and fashion industry are also taking steps in making their products vegan-friendly. The cosmetic brand, Wet n Wild have a range that is free from all animal-derived ingredients and are cruelty-free and PETA approved.

Primark have also launched their faux-leather vegan collection, with a range of leather-look pieces and slogan t-shirts.

STEP BACK TO THE 70’S

Primark, Vegan collection.

This month’s front cover, which took place in Keens Furniture, had 70’s vibes galore, with the Orla Kiely furniture range that screams 70’s nostalgia, and the subtle glamourinspired hair and makeup by Samantha Weightman. I had the Wet n Wild fun task of selecting Color Icon 10 the clothes from Pan Palette in Comfort Zone Next, where there ‘Hannah £6.99 was an abundance of blouse’ with ruffle collar 70’s inspired detail, clothing to £110, Hobbs choose from, including; denim hotpants, floral prints, and bold colour palettes.

It seems that this is a trend to look out for in Floral midi 2020 – 50 years dress, £29.50, on and we are Marks & still donning platform shoes Spencer and flared jeans! Some key trends that are making a revival this year are over-the-top collars, striking prints and groovy denim.

Silver platform heels. £39, Dorothy Perkins

Specialists in lingerie nightwEAR swimwear

663 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GT Tel: 028 9038 1313 www.orchidlingerie.co.uk

7 The Linen Green, Moygashel Co. Tyrone BT71 7HB Tel 028 8772 3181 www.thelingerieroom.com

UT Style

Linea Raffaelli S20 This is a fabulous ivory wedding suit from Linea Raffaelli.

The dress has a beautiful lace bodice, highlighted with mother of pearl details all along the waist band. The dress is complemented by a waist length jacket, also with mother of pearl highlighting the neckline. This is a simply elegant look for spring and summer, that will make you feel extra special when attending your special occasion.

Available in a range of sizes at Katriona, 6-8 Scarva Street, Banbridge, BT32 3DA, tel. 028 406 29768.

Also, check out the website now at Katriona.com for the latest trends in ladies fashion, occasion wear and bridal wear.

Tom Morrow, Dungannon stocks a variety of stylish mens shirts, including the quality German brand, Eterna. You will find a wide range of styles and sizes to take you right through spring and summer.

Tom Morrow, 26 Scotch Street, Dungannon.

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Column / Hair Matters

Style & Substan ce

StyLE SCaLES THE MODERN SHAG The modern shag has been dubbed the must-have cut of 2020. Think long layers and a tousled texture, airdried and teased to frame the face. Just be careful how you ask for it in the salon…

UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS Instagram has a lot to answer for! Real life doesn’t have a filter, so spend less time striving for unrealistic perfection when it comes to your hair. While we all love a polished finish, often a few flyaways or a haphazard bun look just as beautiful.

WHAT’S HOT

with Ke vin

Kahan

Kevin K ahan is one of names the mo in mod st respe e rn haird coveted cted ressing place in , with a the Brit Awards ish Hair Hall of dressin Fame. H is a hair g is Bang and be o r salon auty ha an exte ven, off nsive m ering enu of stunnin service g, awar s in a d-winn month, ing spa he reve c e . This als the cuts dry piece o ing tim f k it that e in half treatme , plus th nt that e face plumps snooze skin wh … ile you

WHAT’S NOT

KEVIN’S KIT

BEAUTY SPOT Katherine Sykes, Make-up Artist @ Kevin Kahan ‘If you struggle to find time to pamper your skin, new Elemis Peptide4 Plumping Pillow Facial might be just the thing. Simply apply a pea-sized amount of this cooling gel mask over your moisturiser before bed, then rinse away in the morning for superhydrated, plumped-up skin. Get yours in the salon at Kevin Kahan.’

WORDS O OF WISDOM Q. After years of the same ‘non’ style (waist length with a grown-out fringe) I’ve convinced myself to try something new ahead of my 40th birthday. I’d like something stylish but easy to manage – any ideas?

A. Well done on going for a change after so long – I think a new cut or colour can be so liberating and most of my clients wonder why they didn’t do it sooner! You mention a grownout fringe, which I think could be incorporated beautifully into a layered ‘shag’ (see Style Scales, above). Ask for long, disconnected layers that hug the contours of the face and jaw and fall just to the shoulder, giving hair extra oomph but without that ‘staggered’ effect that can look a little dated. This will give the hair more natural movement that can either be styled with product and tousled with the fingers, or blow-dried smooth with a round brush for a sleeker silhouette. (Image courtesy of Schwarzkopf Professional)

Kevin Kahan Hairdressing and Beauty 99 High Street, Bangor BT20 5BD Tel: 02891 455431

www.kevinkahan.com

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A great hairdryer is an essential piece of kit if you’re serious about a professional-looking finish.

I’m obsessed with my ghd air hair dryer, which uses ionic technology to reduce frizz and flyaways and boasts a powerful motor to dry hair in a fraction of the time.

Available in the salon at Kevin Kahan, it’s priced at £99 but is worth every penny.

TREAT YOURSELF! We’ve just added the incredible Elemis Pro Definition Lift & Contour Facial to our beauty menu. Designed to sculpt and ‘lift’ the face, it’s the perfect treatment before a special occasion – or the ideal excuse for a little ‘me’ time!

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

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

Emmanuel McStravick, Carla Chambers, Aine Larkin, Emma Ross and Lesley McGarrity.

Jane Fearon models for Blush Boutique.

Ageless BeAuty Make-up maestro Paddy McGurgan led a team of fashion and beauty experts to celebrate “Ageless Beauty�. Shining the style spot light on women over 50 the award-winning make-up artist hosted the afternoon of workshops with Blush Boutique and award-winning skincare clinic Younique Aesthetics Belfast.

Paula Bennett and Francis Martin.

Champagne corks popped as over 120 glamorous guests attended the super sell out event at The Merchant Hotel. You could hear a pin drop when Paddy kicked off the afternoon by creating the perfect day to night make-up on model Eileen Curran (OMG this lady rocks!). ACA models Anya Stewart, Aundrea Gray and Jane Fearon looked a million dollars in occasion wear from Blush Boutique, while Aine Larkin, proprietor and leading skincare expert at Younique Aesthetics Clinic, Belfast, talked guests through tips and tricks on looking and feeling the best you can.

Every guest walked away with a jam packed goody bag including make-up treats from the Makeup Pro Store and complimentary ProFacial from Younique Aesthetics Clinic Chichester Street, Belfast.

Mum and daughter Lisa Magill and Gemma Murphy.

Denize McKeown from Buella.

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Julie Bellwood, Shauna Canning-Devine and Louise Mailey from Limavady.

UT Style

Spring ‘20

Enniskillen Irvinestown

. Lisnaskea . Omagh . Banbridge . Lurgan

028 4066 2429 | 028 6632 2567 www.sdkells.co.uk 77

UT Style

hYdrafacial is the hot celeBritY favourite from the usa to get star QualitY skin

ultra-lift, the latest, safest and most effective skin tightening treatment Ultra-lift, the latest triple lift technology, exclusively available at the Aesthetic Skin Clinic, boasts to be the latest, safest and most effective combination skin-tightening program available – proven to lift, contour and rejuvenate all layers.

This seriously special facial leaves skin intensely hydrated, plumped and glowing.

HydraFacial is a medical grade facial that combines lymphatic drainage with deep cleansing and pore extraction, before saturating the skin with treatment serums and finishing with intensive infrared. This is the only procedure that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, antioxidant protection and red LED light therapy all in one.

HydraFacial is designed to provide instantly visible results after every treatment, alongside improvement in the health of your skin, giving you a complexion that you’ll love.

It’s like no other facial that you’ve ever experienced!

We ask Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Hayley Jordan from ASC what is unique about the new Ultralift procedure?

This triple lift technology offers the most advanced skin tightening available. The focused Ultrasound specifically targets the deep fibrous SMAS layer, which has previously only been addressed by cosmetic surgery. Now true laxity can be managed without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. The Fractional micro needling boosts the collagen in the dermis, creating transformational changes in the quality of the skin and radiofrequency causes superficial tightening. Combining these three technologies in the Ultralift has created the most comprehensive nonsurgical up-lift currently available and our patients love it.

Quote code FACIAL50 to receive £50 off this treatment, valid until 23rd April 2020.

Contact the Aesthetic Skin Clinic 028 9031 9060 or visit their new website www.askinclinic.co.uk for information and live treatment videos.

For more information on this treatment call: 028 9031 9060, or visit: www.askinclinic.co.uk.

on trend for sPring/ summer

Spring/summer looks from Badoo, the luxury fashion brand available from Jacksons of Saintfield. www.jacksonsofsaintfield.com 78

Deborah Elwiss-McNally

Jackie Donnelly

Deborah is an advanced aesthetic nurse practitioner.

Jackie Donnelly is proprietor of The Clinic on Belfast’s Lisburn Road.

Get that Spring skin glow with the help of The Clinic Whilst the weather may still be chilly, the days are certainly getting longer and Spring is on the horizon.

With nature slowly blossoming into the beauty of the season, make sure your skin does the same. that rather than just filling in lines and wrinkles, they actually nourish dermal cells and restore the firmness of the skin. We have a whole range of these products from fillers to creams available at The Clinic, so come in for a chat to find the best ones that work for you.

Epionce Products Here at The Clinic we offer a range of Epionce products which are perfect for invigorating your skin. From creams to gels, these products have won multiple awards over the years and are suitable for even the most sensitive types of skin. Getting a Spring Skin Glow is all about finding a tailored solution to your skin care and these products are the ideal way to achieve that.

Sclerotherapy It’s soon time to shed our winter wardrobes and embrace skirt season.

Make sure your legs are hot to trot with a sclerotherapy treatment at The Clinic. While not regarded as a serious medical issue, thread veins near the skin’s surface can often appear unsightly and affect your confidence. We at The Clinic understand just how this can feel and we are here to help.

Sclerotherapy is a simple and painless yet effective treatment which includes injecting a solution into the veins with a micro needle, causing them to collapse. After a short course of treatment, the vessels will diminish, leaving you with beautiful vein-free legs that you’ll be delighted to show off.

Shed the damage caused by harsh winter months by booking yourself into Lisburn Road’s The Clinic in Belfast, which offers a wide range of rejuvenating, non-invasive treatments to enable you to step into Spring, feeling and looking a revitalised and healthier you.

We promise only the most highly trained staff and desired results when you have a treatment with us. Book a one to one consultation with Deborah, our advanced aesthetic nurse practitioner at The Clinic, who will discuss and advise on the most suitable treatment for your skin type and talk through any questions or concerns you might have.

Profhilo Products Profhilo products are one of the best ways to create an effective and natural looking non-surgical facelift. They address the skin’s laxity so

For more information, or to book a consultation and start your journey to skin confidence, visit www.thecliniclisburnroad.co.uk

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UT Style

COSMETIC SKIN TAG AND MOLE REMOVAL

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

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

Q & A with Chris Hoo

THE MIRACLE OF CO-ENZYME Q10 AND THE BENEFITS FOR MALE AND FEMALE FERTILITY

Q: How are skin lesions removed?

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

You may have heard the hype surrounding Co-enzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) and the benefits for fertility. Research has shown that supplementing with CoQ10 can significantly improve both male and female fertility.

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

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

CoQ10 is an antioxidant that occurs naturally in the body. It is essential in helping mitochondria produce energy used by the cells.

Q: How long does the procedure take?

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

As we age, our levels of CoQ10 decline. Research has shown that this decline may affect female fertility.

Studies show that supplementing with CoQ10 helps with the production of healthy eggs by reducing oxidative stress, protecting cells from DNA damage.

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

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

It also seems to improve the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), which is produced by ovaries into the blood stream. In fertility challenges, AMH is measured for egg and ovarian function. At Logan, we have discovered that CoQ10 seems to normalise AMH levels and stimulate dormant eggs.

Q: What about aftercare?

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

Q: Will I have a scar?

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

The wonder of CoQ10 doesn’t end there; research has shown that CoQ10 impacts male fertility by increasing sperm density and improving motility. It is recommended for males experiencing low sperm count and other sperm related problems.

At Logan we offer Co-enzyme Q10 combined with a metabolic stabiliser, Amino Acid B3 to encourage a natural increase in CoQ10 levels within the body.

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

Ruth-Ellen For more information on any of Logan’s services or to book a male or female fertility consultation please call us on 02890 687467

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

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Looking For The Perfect Body Without Surgery?

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Column

Dr Patrick Campbell

Dr Patrick Campbell is a Consultant Urogynaecologist.

Non-surgical solutions to intimate issues…

This month, Dr Patrick Campbell discusses the benefits of the Viveve treatment offered at Kingsbridge Private Hospital in Belfast.

Is this a treatment you should have at a certain age?

We don’t specify a certain age to have the Viveve treatment. We see women in their 20s, 30s and 40s with vaginal laxity and incontinence after childbirth, right through to women in their 50s, 60s and 70s with incontinence, laxity and vaginal dryness which have developed around the time of, or after, menopause.

How can it empower women?

Fortunately talking openly about intimate issues is not as taboo as it was a few years ago. More and more women are having the confidence to speak up about not feeling as much during sex, or leaking a bit (or a lot) when they laugh, cough or exercise. It can actually be quite empowering, once you hear there is a non-surgical treatment option and take that first step and ask about it.

How does Viveve work?

A small vaginal probe uses a combination of cryogen cooling and radio-frequency energy to stimulate the formation of healthy new collagen and elastin. The treatment is painless, takes around 45 minutes and doesn’t require any anaesthesia or down-time.

This year we’ve talked about thread-lifts and non-surgical rhinoplasty, but while these controversial procedures are aesthetically driven, the latest trend for radio-frequency treatments ‘down below’ is more about enhancing sensation. Vaginal laxity / looseness is a common issue after childbirth, leading to loss of sensation during intercourse.

We ask Consultant Urogynaecologist Dr Patrick Campbell about Viveve, a non-surgical vaginal tightening treatment which can treat this condition.

Viveve testimonial: Emma, Co. Down “I am a 41 year old energetic mother of 3 young children who unfortunately took a toll on my pelvic floor area, resulting in vaginal laxity and urinary incontinence. It was something that was ruling my life and had greatly affected my confidence. I opted for the Viveve treatment with Dr Patrick Campbell, in the hope that I would get my life back and not age before my time!! This simple treatment really worked for me and I couldn’t be more delighted with the results. I have regained my confidence and can now sneeze and cough without having to cross my legs!”

Who is the treatment for?

The Viveve treatment was developed for women who experience symptoms of vaginal laxity and want to boost their confidence and wellbeing when it comes to the enjoyment of sex. Viveve works by stimulating the formation of healthy new collagen and elastin - this can also treat mild to moderate urinary incontinence.

What exactly is vaginal laxity?

Vaginal laxity is caused by the stretching of the vaginal opening during childbirth and weakening of collagen support fibres with age, similar to the effects of aging on facial skin. Vaginal laxity can have a profound effect on a woman’s sexual experience as well as her overall health, well-being and confidence. Vaginal laxity often goes unreported by women who may be too embarrassed to discuss the issue with their doctor or may not be aware of treatment options available.

Call 028 9073 5300 or email cosmetics@ kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com to book a surgical consultation.

Kingsbridge Private Hospital 811-815 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GX kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

Cosmetic Surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast • Breast Surgery • Breast Enlargement • Breast Uplifting • Breast Reduction • Face Lifts • Eyelid Surgery

• Nose Reshaping Surgery (Rhinoplasty) • Liposuction • Tummy Tucks • Abdominal Liposuction • Scar Revision

• Cosmetic Gynaecology • Thread-Lifts • Viveve • Anti-Wrinkle Injections • Thermal Fillers

Call 028 9073 5300 or email cosmetics@kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com to book a surgical consultation Kingsbridge Private Hospital 811-815 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GX kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

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Introducing the Optomap

47-49 Railway Road, Coleraine.

Telephone 028 7034 2255 Follow us on

“Holley Optometrists prides itself in offering the newest state of the art technology and we are delighted to welcome the latest Optomap equipment from Optos. The retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be seen directly, therefore in addition to eye conditions signs of other diseases such as stroke, heart disease, hypertension and diabetes can also be detected. This complements our OCT eye scanner which gives us an in depth look at the optic nerve head and macula.�

Column /

Arts Diary

“those are the very stories we must never lose”

Kellie Burch kellie@ulstertatler.com

LAUNCH OF GHETTO As part of the wider Holocaust Memorial Day commemorations, the Synagogue of the Belfast Jewish Community at The Wolfson Centre on Somerton Road jointly hosted a poetry reading by Michael Longley, and the launch of a new exhibition

by Sarah Longley.

The foundation for the event, which was organised by the Victim and Survivor Service, the Institute for Conflict Research and the Belfast Jewish Community, was the exploration of Ghetto, a joint venture by the talented father and daughter duo.

Ghetto is a printed book, published by Fine Press Poetry, containing poems by Michael Longley which he wrote in memory of Helen Lewis, a survivor of the Holocaust, who passed away in 2009. The volume is illustrated by pen drawings by Sarah Longley, who, as a child, was taught dance by Helen after she moved to Belfast in 1947 and flourished as a choreographer.

On arrival, guests were given ample time to peruse Sarah’s illustrations, including a mesmerising charcoal triptych, which was the inceptive piece of art inspired by her father’s poem ‘Ghetto’. The wonderful presentation of the exhibition saw a multitude of Sarah’s powerful and intricate pen drawings showcased beside the corresponding poem. The result is a moving and important display that haunts the viewer whilst also eliciting a sense of hope.

Before treating the gathered audience to a reading of his poems from the Ghetto collection, Michael spoke of how he would anxiously show his poems about the Holocaust to Helen Lewis before he could even consider publishing them. His esteem for her is obvious and he paid tribute to her by reading a moving passage from her memoir, A Time To Speak, before reading a poignant four line poem dedicated to her, simply called ‘Helen’.

The event gathered a diverse crowd, from journalist Anne Hailes and BBC NI producer and presenter Richard Yarr, to Chairman of the Belfast Jewish Community Michael Black, Project Manager and Senior Researcher of The Institute for Conflict Research Dr Katy Radford MBE and Commissioner for Victims and Survivors of the conflict in Northern Ireland Judith Thompson.

Speaking at the launch, Lord Lieutentant Fionnuala Jay O’Boyle, said: “The magnitude of the genocide visited on the Jewish people defies comprehension... The scale of evil was so great, so incomprehensible, its impact so profoud, that it threatens to obscure the individual stories of loss. The stories of tragedy. The stories of suffering. And yet, those are the very stories we must never lose.”

By telling the story of Helen, who survived imprisonment in both Terezín and Auschwitz, through impecable words and haunting images, Michael and Sarah both have prevailed at keeping the stories of Holocaust survivors at the fore and creating a touching and loving act of remembrance.

The opening of the Ghetto exhibiton and poetry reading took place on 28 January 2020.

Artist Sarah Longley and poet Michael Longley.

Anne Hailes and Richard Yarr.

Michael Longley and Lord Lieutenant Fionnuala Jay O’Boyle.

Kathleen Breslin, Victims’ Commissioner Judith Thomspon and Oonagh Durkan.

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Michael Gallagher, Cat and Farah Wilkinson from Omagh Victims’ Group.

Shoshana and Ronald Appleton QC with Professor Edna Longley.

Michael Black, Chairman of Belfast Jewish Community with Dr Cecil Bates.

Dr Katy Radford MBE and Jane Conlon.

Arts Diary

Heather Hostetler and Pat Hawthorne.

Robert Crone and Moore Sinnerton.

Joan McCready with Neil Shawcross’ portrait of Sam McCready.

Joan McCready with Jane Keller.

Neil Shawcross, Jenny Magee and Andrew Williamson.

Sandra Sinnerton, Joan McCready and Ann McVeigh.

Jean Boyd and David Boyd.

Pat Langenberg, Michael Cameron and Pam Cameron.

SAM McCREADY – A CELEBRATION Sam McCready was an ever evolving talent; he made his mark as an actor, director, teacher, writer and designer. However, he also had an inherent passion for painting.

With such an active professional career, it was understandably difficult for Sam to fully pursue this passion until his retirement in 2000. Since then, until his sad passing in February 2019, Sam produced a remarkable portfolio of work. A selection of this legacy was recently on display at the ArtisAnn Gallery as part of a retrospective exhibition: Sam McCready - A Celebration.

Curated in conjunction with Sam’s widow, Joan McCready, the exhibition was a component of a larger series of tributes hosted throughout Belfast to honour and celebrate the life of this extraordinary artist.

During a special late night reception, friends, old and new, were invited to view the carefully selected pieces on display, as well as hear a word of appreciation from Sam’s longtime friend, filmmaker Moore Sinnerton.

Mr Sinnerton spoke of how fitting it was that the exhibition was held in the ArtisAnn Gallery, located in east Belfast, as this was where Sam was born and bred. Over the years, despite extensive travelling and making a life in the US, Sam never lost his connection to this part of the world. This link to ‘home’ was captured when Sam began painting images of Ireland. Moore Sinnerton recounted Sam saying: “I had this terrible urge to paint again. The images flowed as if they had been there all the time and were waiting on me to release them ... I am not interested in painting the actual landscape but rather the impression it left on me, the mood, the internal response to the landscape and to nature.”

As his skill continued to flourish his style began to evolve to encompass linear abstracts, cityscapes of merging, diverging and converging lines, and monochrome ink landscapes inspired by the Chinese style known as Shan Shui. These periods of Sam’s

work formed the basis of the exhibition.

Joining Joan - who thanked the audience for sharing one of Sam’s dreams by attending the reception - were artist Neil Shawcross - whose portrait of Sam was focal in the exhibition; playwright Michael Cameron and MLA Pam Cameron; film producer Sandra Sinnerton; and friends from his adopted home in Dickeyville, Baltimore.

When describing Sam McCready - A Celebration, Ann McVeigh and Ken Bartley, friends and co founders of the ArtisAnn Gallery, said: “This exhibition reveals not only Sam’s love of nature, but his interest in linear patterns and colour contrasts. The vibrancy and energy with which he attacked life is reflected in this celebration of a life well lived.” The evocative artworks are bold, intricate and captivating, and whilst he is no longer with us, his artistic endeavours will continue to inspire generations to come.

Sam McCready - A Celebration ran until 29th February 2020.

“The vibrancy and energy with which he attacked life is reflected in this celebration of a life well lived.”

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Arts Diary

LAUNCH OF TERRY BRANKIN HAS A GUN The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), situated in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, was the unique setting for the launch of the debut novel by journalist, author and broadcaster, Malachi O’Doherty.

Battling the elements to celebrate the publication of O’Doherty’s ninth book - but first work of fiction - were the great and the good from Northern Ireland’s literary world including, poets Michael Longley and Ireland Professor of Poetry Frank Ormsby; authors Paul McVeigh, Gerry McCullough and Jo Zebedee (who is also the co-owner of Carrickfergus bookshop The Secret Bookshelf); and director of The John Hewitt Society Tony Kennedy. During the drinks reception I had the opportunity to catch up with jounalist Andrea McVeigh, who has recently relocated back to Belfast after a stint working and living in London, as well as Maeve Convery, from Merrion Press. Guests were warmly welcomed by PRONI’s Head of Public Services, Stephen Scarth before Wendy Erskine, author of critically acclaimed short story collection Sweet Home, officially launched the book.

Speaking on the night Wendy remarked on how after the launch of her own debut collection, Malachi kindly reached out on Facebook to say how much he enjoyed the book and how it was a happy coincidence she was able to be a part of the launch for his own debut novel. Terry Brankin Has A Gun is a powerful Troubles novel which explores significant legacy issues of the northern conflict and how past deeds can never truly be forgotten. After introducing the audience to the range of characters in the book, Wendy continued: “As Malachi himself writes in The Irish Times, ‘this novel is about complexity and change, it’s an attempt at an organic representationof a city with recent memories of carnage and chaos’, and as far as I am concerned it is an exciting, thrilling, dizzying read.”

Before reading an extract of the book, featuring the humourously - and totally ficitional character - radio presenter Nevan Toland, Malachi made several thanks, in particular to his wife, poet Maureen Boyle, remarking she’s “an astute commentator on the things I do”, and Conor Graham and the who team at Merrion Press, who published the book.

This intricate, electrifying and insightful novel offers an original commentary on the political landscape of Northern Ireland; as a result, Terry Brankin Has A Gun has certainly been holding my attention hostage in my spare time.

The launch of Terry Brankin Has A Gun took place on 18th February 2020.

Malachi O’Doherty, Maureen Boyle, Wendy Erskine and Conor Graham.

Jacqui Kerr and Keith Baker.

Raymond and Gerry McCullough.

Andy Carden and Grainne Tobin.

Poets Frank Ormsby and Michael Longley.

THE BEST OF THE REST NEW EXHIBITIONS

Raquel Amat Parra.

Sharon Canning.

Malachi with Stephen Scarth.

Two new exhibitions opened at Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards recently.

Under the Phoenix Eye is a product of a residence program that Raquel Amat Parra undertook at Guanlan Original Printmaking Base in China during summer 2019. Raquel’s stay in this 300-year-old village and its breath-taking landscape inevitably influenced her work. The exhibition runs at The Georgian Gallery until Wednesday 25 March.

All Daughters is a collection of abstract paintings by Sharon Canning in response to the young women who have found support and refuge by the Hope and Light charity. As nearly 1.2 million children are trafficked in South-East Asia every year, Sharon’s work intends to encapsulate the trauma these strong girls have been subjected to, but also the hope that safe work and security can bring. The exhibition runs at in The Sunburst Gallery until until Wednesday 25 March.

Tony Kennedy and Jo Zebedee.

Paul McVeigh and Wendy Erskine.

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

RETURNS

If you missed Derry Girls’ Tara Lynne O’Neill play the iconic Shirley Valentine in 2019, due to popular demand it will return to the Lyric Theatre until the 15th March. This fantastic comedy, written by Willy Russell, is directed by Patrick J O’Reilly.

Shirley is a housewife. Her kids have left home and she finds herself talking to the wall while she makes chips and eggs for her husband. What has happened to her life? Out of the blue, her best friend offers her a trip to Greece for 2 weeks and she secretly packs her bags. The note on the kitchen table reads “Gone to Greece back in two weeks.” She heads for the sun and on a voyage of discovery starts to see the world and herself in a very different light.

Tickets available now at www.lyrictheatre. co.uk or 028 9038 1081.

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BRIDES Ulster Tatler

Action Cancer Saving Lives Supporting People

Bridal Boutique Now Open at 181 Ormeau Road, Belfast

IN THE PICTURE LOCAL READERS‘ WEDDINGS

THE SCENE: Hotel Director Mandy Dalm (centre) pictured with Amy McCausland and Tim Kirkpatrick from Floral Earth.

Ionian String Quartet in the Blackwood suite.

CLANDEBOYE LODGE SPRING WEDDING FAIR

The Clandeboye Lodge welcomed over 850 guests into their stunningly eclectic venue at their Spring Wedding Fair.

Guests enjoyed the beautifully crafted, unique interiors of each refurbished suite whilst meeting dozens of specialist suppliers from dress makers to cake bakers, stationers to entertainers, gift listers to floral arrangers and car hirers.

Clandeboye Lodge marketing team Lorraine Finley, Claire Garrad and Angela McKenna.

Kurt Mills and Corin White planning their wedding.

The Viceroy suite.

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Thomas Lennox and Stephanie Roberts who are planning their April 2021 wedding day at Clandeboye Lodge.

Paul O’Hare and Clare Skelton planning their wedding day at Clandeboye Lodge.

Hotel Director Mandy Dalm with wedding singer Adam McKee.

53414 CBL ULS TATLER A4 MAR 20 AW.indd 1

19/02/2020 14:49

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

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We support young couples in the challenge of distance, as well as the combination of different cultures and languages, so that all guests, especially you, feel the comfort and fun of this special day.

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Tailor made for your special day Ulster Tatler speaks to Ramune Kuskyte from Kings Tailor.

WHAT MAKES KINGS TAILOR UNIQUE? Kings Tailor is family business, we pride ourselves in a very personal approach. Every client is very important to us whether designing and making bespoke wedding dresses or customising a dress which the client has already sourced and making adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

We are also very specific with men’s suits for any important occasion. We not only

tailor suits to exact measurements, but we follow the fashion trends to make it a statement and represent the client’s unique style!

How does tailoring for weddings differ from anything else?

Because of the level of work involved, it usually takes a minimum of three fittings to create the desired look and for the bride to look and feel amazing in the dress.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE OF THE WEDDING SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR DRESSES/SUITS TO BE TAILORED? We would recommend to make an appointment as early as possible to allow enough time for the work to be carried out.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? We love meeting people and helping them to look their best on their important day.

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Ramune Kuskyte

A lot of times we feel like we’re getting to know all of the family as very often mums, dads, aunties and friends come along to the fittings, it can be very fun.

Kings Tailor 4 Joy’s Entry, Belfast, BT1 4DR T: 028 9031 3783 W: tailorbelfast.co.uk E: info@tailorbelfast.co.uk

Dylan McBurney

Wedding Reportage for an authentic story

Photographer.

Capture all the moments on your special day with Dylan McBurney Photography. photography where the subjects are aware of the camera and where the photographer has clearly had an input in arranging the scene or prompting the subjects to look into the lens.

Reportage wedding photography on the other hand equates to non-posed coverage: moments captured, the telling of the actual story rather than a series of arranged concoctions.

Put simply, it’s where the photographer senses, anticipates and then documents moments as a reporter all without speaking or changing the scene. Results are truly timeless and telling of the day’s spirit and the couple’s love. It’s a philosophy based on the belief that people look their best when they are unaware of the camera.

About Dylan McBurney

For better or worse, wedding photographers seem to work with two divergent mandates and definitions of art and correctness.

The mission of the ‘traditional’ wedding photographer is to arrange and create photographic opportunities; for the wedding photojournalist, it is to sense, find and document existing moments.

Two perspectives, two missions, two minds: one proactive, the other reactive.

The traditional approach can be seen everywhere in wedding

Dylan’s professional career in wedding reportage began in 2005 when he was invited to show his photographs of Ireland at exhibitions in New York and France. Struck by the beautiful black and white images of children playing in the streets of Belfast in the 1970s taken by legendary American photographer Mary Ellen Mark and hanging alongside his own photographs, Dylan took this ‘photojournalistic’ approach into weddings.

Since then he has photographed over 300 weddings in Ireland and further afield in locations such as London, Barcelona, Prague, and across France.

Dylan’s storytelling approach to picture taking allows his couples to relax and enjoy their day with friends and family without hours spent posing - hours that interrupt the natural flow of the day. They want an album that’s a statement about themselves and a true reflection of what really happened, rather than just a series of posed images.

From the outset, Dylan’s approach has been on capturing authentic ‘real-life’ moments from the wedding. His simple, romantic, natural light images focus on the bride and groom’s interactions with friends and family, often revealing powerful emotions and relationships and capturing the uncomplicated charm of stolen glances or guests laughing.

Covering weddings unobtrusively allows him to tell the couple’s story with spontaneous photographs that always bring delight to the viewer.

This unique style has brought Dylan to photograph weddings all over Ireland and Europe and he remains one of the most in-demand photographers in Northern Ireland.

We quietly capture authentic wedding moments knowing that people look best when unaware of the camera and just being themselves.

For more information: Website: www.dylanmcburney.com Instagram: dylanmcburney Facebook: dylanmcburneyphoto Ut brides 05

S O C I E T Y WILSON & FIELDS

Laura Wilson, Mill Road, Ballyclare married Sean Fields, Lagmore, Dunmurry on 3rd October 2019 at the Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen. Although the wedding took place at the tail end of hurricane Lorenzo, the happy couple enjoyed a wonderful day. The bridal party were dressed with dresses from Divinity Bridal, Lisburn and suits from McCalls, Lisburn, whilst flowers were from Forget Me Not Floristry. The bride and groom danced the night away with their guests to the sounds of the Just Adam Band.

Photography by Stephen Whiteside.

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W E D D I N G S

Spr g WEDDING SHOWCASE

SUNDAY 15TH MARCH | 1PM - 5PM

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BRIDAL DIRECTORY

BRING A LITTLE BIT OF MONTE CARLO TO YOUR WEDDING!

WHY BRING MONTE CARLO TO YOUR WEDDING?

You have planned your wedding perfectly. You and your guests will have a wonderful day. Your memorable occasion will be so much fun… except for the two dead zones! What or when are they?

The first is during your photographs, when your guests are getting bored! The second is just after your meal, when everyone is too full up to dance! You can fill either time successfully with Mulsanne Casinos’ casino tables. Your guests play with your personalised “funny money” and experience all the thrills of a Monte Carlo casino.

You provide a small prize for the winner and your guests have so much fun that they don’t notice the hours passing, until it is time to eat or dance. Now you really have planned your day perfectly!

You can contact Mulsanne Casinos on 028 9082 5235 or at: www.mulsanne.co.uk.

MULSANNE CASINOS Tel: 028 9082 5235 www.mulsanne.co.uk donal@mulsanne.co.uk

Shannon Curran HAIRSTYLIST

• Fully certified hairdresser.

• Covering all aspects of hair services.

• Specialising in up-styles and ponytails.

• Newry, Mojo & Co (just off Cloughoge roundabout).

• Providing a professional and relaxing experience.

• Makeup Artist Shauna McCoy, Fully certified Beauty therapist based in Newry.

• Specialises in Bridal and occasion makeup.

• CCphotography, capturing special moments.

• Helping you feel comfortable on your special day.

• Aimee Farrell Designs, bridal head piece extraordinaire

08 UT BRIDES

shannon_c_hair Shauna McCoy Make up Ccphotography Aimee Farrell Designs

Telephone: 07845 154462

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Carlingford provides the perfect backdrop for Your Wedding with Carlingford Lough and mountains, the Old Abbey, King John’s Castle and quaint cobbled streets, your photographs will be treasured forever.

FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL EVENTS@FSHC.IE OR CALL +353 (0)42 93 73530

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BRIDAL DIRECTORY

Think Make-Up The Clare McKinney Make-up and Beauty Salon has gained a reputation as an essential port of call for any brideto-be. Clare has won accolades such as Health and Beauty Consultant in the Ulster Tatler People of the Year Awards and has also featured as the make-up artist on various Ulster Bride shoots, as well as television commercials and hair shoots.

The Clare McKinney Make-up and Beauty Salon is launching its new cosmeceutical skincare range, IMAGE. Image is a high quality, paraben free brand from the USA that works at a cellular level of your skin. The salon now offers a range of facials and facial peels to correct, rejuvenate and boost the skin’s health. Revitalise dry, dull, ageing skin with Vitamin C enriched facials or treat yourself to a course of facial peels that promote skin clarity, even skin tone and improve texture. With a variety of different peeling solutions they can treat various skin conditions including rosacea, high pigmentation, sun damage and acne.

Tel: 028 9266 1111

Clare McKinney Make-Up & Beauty Award winning team of therapist/make-up artists and salon

We strive to provide the highest level of standards and service.

Our aim is to offer clients the opportunity to experience high quality treatments in a relaxed and unhurried environment. We now call out to smaller wedding parties as well.

Prices will be given on application.

You could be on the groom’s side or a guest, you don’t have to be the bride!

Vita Liberata Spray Tan Now Available

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE Salon of the Year Finalists at The Ulster Tatler Awards 2018 & 2019

5 Market Place, Lisburn, BT28 1AN Tel: 028 9266 1111 Mobile: 07885 693630

Find us on

www.claremckinney.com

Create Your Perfect Wedding List • Online and in store buying facilities • Free gift wrapping & delivery • Wardens gift vouchers for 5% of the value of purchases from your list

Elegant Ivory Tones The new Le Creuset Meringue range, available at Wardens of Newtownards.

www.wardenbros.com

Gift List Evening

Thursday 12th March 5pm - 8.30pm Register your list on the evening and receive a fantastic gift

45 - 47 High Street, Newtownards, BT23 7HS www.wardenbros.com | Tel: 028 9181 2147 UT BRIDES 11

S O C I E T Y NICHOLSON & MARTIN Suzanne Nicholson, from Ballymaconnell Road South, Bangor, and Gary Martin, from Myrtledene Road, Belfast, were married on 12th October 2019 at Clandeboye Lodge.

The happy couple honeymooned in New York and San Francisco.

Photography by Nicola Ross.

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W E D D I N G S

SAY “I DO” AT TITANIC HOTEL BELFAST Love can take us to many different places but a wedding needs a special place of its own.

It should be a place which cherishes your love, sets the backdrop perfectly and fills in all the details exquisitely.

At Titanic Hotel Belfast we know that the success of your day will be in those details.

The smooth running of your celebration from planning right through to the day after, is where we really excel. Titanic Hotel Belfast is fully registered to host your civil ceremony or partnership, allowing you to plan your entire day with us. Our historic building offers the perfect setting in which to make those momentous vows to each other.

Packages from £9995.* Our team of friendly, welcoming wedding experts are there for you. Their exceptional attention to detail and assertive manner will ensure your day flows just as you hoped.

To find out more about our packages please call +44 (0)28 9508 2000 or email weddings@titanichotelbelfast.com. *Based on a minimum of 120 guests.

S O C I E T Y

W E D D I N G S

GORMLEY & McELHINNEY

Claire Gormley and Ryan McElhinney were married on 12th April 2019 at Saint Mary’s Church, Aughabrack, Co. Tyrone, followed by a reception at Slieve Russell Hotel, Co. Cavan. The happy couple honeymooned in Barbados, Miami and Las Vegas.

Photography by Shea Deighan Wedding & Portrait Photographer

DREAM COME TRUE

The Redcastle Oceanfront, Golf & Spa Hotel promise to help fulfil your every wish and to look after your dreams. The Hotel really believe it has the most romantic venue, the most exquisite food and the attention to detail you deserve for your day-of-all-days.

The Ocean Suite sits at the water’s edge with panoramic views across the water, with its own outside terrace area, the Ocean Suite is almost unrivalled for its location and views.

Colleen and Noel Conlon: “We had our wedding, including the service, at Redcastle on Saturday and we are overwhelmed by how attentive all the staff were. Aisleen made our experience so perfect and flawless from start to finish, all the little touches like a phone call that morning, just to settle my nerves added to that experience. Gerry was amazing, took control and our guests were so happy. The general manager was so welcoming and we appreciated all the small touches. Every single staff member needs to be congratulated for their professionalism and kindness...nothing was too much trouble. Our guests commented on how fantastic the staff were. Please share this with all of them and keep doing what you are doing as it’s done to perfection. Thank you so much.”

Contact the Redcastle Oceanfront, Golf & Spa Hotel on W: www.redcastlehotel.com E: events@redcastlehotel.com T: +353(0)74 9385555 14 UT BRIDES

WINTER WEDDING PACKAGE ONLY €42.00 PER PERSON AVAILABLE FOR SELECTED 2020 DATES

• Sparkling Wine Arrival • Four Course Wedding Banquet • 1/2 bottle of house wine per person • Two complimentary 30 minute back massages in The Spa the day after your wedding • 1st Year anniversary stay with dinner in the Edge Restaurant

• Available for selected 2020 dates • Minimum of 100 adult guests Contact Aisleen to arrange an appointment to discuss your perfect Redcastle Wedding package

www.redcastlehotel.com | events@redcastlehotel.com | www.facebook.com/RedcastleHotel

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

SAY ‘I DO’ IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS AT ROE PARK RESORT

Roe Park Resort, Limavady, one of Northern Ireland’s most desirable wedding destinations has recently unveiled a new addition to the resort with a dedicated outdoor wedding space and gazebo.

The gazebo creates a unique opportunity to host civil ceremonies in the great outdoors, meeting the ever-growing popularity for outdoor weddings - a twist on the traditional wedding format. The new structure sits in the grounds of the Resort, a short walk from the hotel.

Wedding guests can also enjoy a drinks reception with a difference under the gazebo on the sprawling lawns of the estate with the dramatic backdrop of Binevenagh and Roe Valley Country Park offering spectacular views across the local landscape. In addition, the 4-star Resort grounds are landscaped to create the picture-perfect setting for official photographs.

Roe Park Resort adopts a one wedding per day policy, ensuring privacy and exclusivity for every couple. The Resort has dedicated wedding planners to offer guidance and support at every step of the wedding journey. With prices starting from £46pp, get in touch with the Resort’s wedding planners today to create a bespoke wedding day experience.

For more info visit: www.RoeParkResort or Tel: +44 (0) 28 7772 2222, Email: Weddings@RoeParkResort.com

Love is most definitely in the air!

Something Special from Action Cancer, based on the Ormeau Road in Belfast, opened on Friday 14th February to a fantastic reception from brides-to-be looking for their dream wedding dress at even dreamier prices.

“We are delighted with the response from brides-to-be at the launch of Something Special, we never imaged that we would have brides from Cookstown to Limavady travelling to find their perfect dress.

In doing so they are supporting Action Cancer and our bid to show that you can be more sustainable with your wedding dress purchase without sacrificing on quality, style or settling for second best!” said Katherine Young from Action Cancer.

With something to suit everyone’s style and taste whether you are looking for taffeta or tulle you are guaranteed to not only fall in love with the dress but the prices as well! There are massive savings on the RRP and with most dresses being ex-sample dresses they have never been worn! All money raised for Action Cancer stays in Northern Ireland to support local people impacted by cancer. If you needed more a of reason to call into this new bridal store then this has to be it!

Open Fridays and Saturdays throughout March and April, 181 Ormeau Road Belfast.

For further information contact retail@actioncancer.org or phone 028 9080 334

TIFFANY GAGE

Wedding & Family Photography

2020 & 2021 Availability

Ballyrobert, Co Antrim, Based in NI, Available in Ireland and Beyond Tel: 07895 253502 Website: tiffanygagephotography.co.uk Email: tdmgage@gmail.com Tiffany Gage Photography 16 UT BRIDES

BRIDAL DIRECTORY

Exclusive to you With only one wedding per day, we are exclusive to you.

Wedding ceremonies now being conducted in our new Gazebo.

WWW.ROEPARKRESORT.COM +44 (0)28 7772 2222

THE FABULOUS FOUR

The Phillips Sisters

The Phillips Sisters are from a family of ten, four boys and six girls who have performed for years at concerts, weddings, festivals and funerals. Now they perform as four, Loretta, Paula, Maria and Orla. These talented vocalists are also multi-instrumentalists and musically creative, Loretta having had success with a self-penned album “Another Voice” backed by the Arts Council. As well as being confident live performers, they have had several BBC radio broadcasts and have appeared on a popular Irish TV family show. With an extensive repertoire these girls cater for all needs. Their passion for music is refreshing and their unique blend of voice married to four-part harmonies leaves audiences enchanted. A truly talented and genuinely loving family will not leave you disappointed.

AVA I L A B L E F O R : • • • • •

CHURCH WEDDINGS HOTEL CIVIL CEREMONIES AFTERNOON DRINKS RECEPTION A N D E V E N I N G PA R T I E S A L S O FUNERALS AND ANNIVERSARY MASSES

02 UT BRIDES

PHILLIPS SISTERS WEDDING MUSIC AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS

T: 07882 870293

Northern Ireland’s Leading Wedding and Event Stylists Unit 1, 6a Enkalon Industrial Estate, 25 Randalstown Road, Antrim, BT41 4LJ Tel: 02894 464 468

Mob: 07976316793

Email: barbara@fairytalechairs.com www.fairytalechairs.com

Images courtesy of Graham Crichton People and Pet Photographer

The Dixie Mix Photography.

Deborah Hynes, Base Hair & Beauty.

The northern ireland wedding awards 2020

Around 500 of the country’s top businesses and wedding specialists recently gathered at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast to find out the champions of The 5th Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2020.

The awards recognised everyone that works hard towards creating memorable and unique weddings; from wedding planners, coordinators, specialists and caterers to photographers, videographers, florists and stationary suppliers.

The glitzy evening was hosted by Paulo Ross. He presented the awards and acknowledged those who promote excellence in the industry, inspire others by their achievements and add the fairy-tale sparkle to any wedding.

A Spokesperson for The Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2020 said: “The winners represent the industry’s gold standard that work tirelessly to meet the demands of the couples and their guests. The awards showcased some of the best wedding specialists that operate in the industry, whose excellence and commitment brought them at the forefront of the industry.

“The competition was really tough this year, but these champions are tried and tested specialists that know how to create a stress-free wedding experience, keeping the romance in the air. We would like to congratulate all finalists and winners for their amazing achievements.”

Chloe Lulu at the Glam Studio.

The Cake Clan.

Divinity Bridal.

The winners of The 5th Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2020 are:

The NI wedding awards 2020 winners list

Wedding Stationery Supplier of the Year: Paper Dot Bespoke Wedding Stationery (Belfast) Wedding Jeweller of the Year: The Jewellers Workshop (Broughshane)

Videographer of the Year: Take Two Studio (Kilkeel) Wedding Photographer of the Year: The Dixie Mix Photography (Stewartstown) Wedding Florist of the Year Belfast: Kathryn’s Flower Barn Wedding Florist of the Year Northern Ireland: Ivy Lane Floral Design Studio (Antrim) Wedding Cake Designer Northern Ireland: The Cake Clan (Omagh) Wedding Cake Designer County Derry/ Londonderry: Vons Cake Art (Magherafelt)

Kathryn’s Flower Barn.

Home Caked.

Ivy Lane Floral Design.

Connie McGrath Makeup Artist.

Take Two Studio.

Vons Cake Art.

Wedding Cake Designer County Armagh: Home Caked (Armagh) Wedding Cake Designer County Fermanagh: Lough Erne Cakes (Enniskillen) Wedding Hair & Makeup Salon Northern Ireland: Base Hair and Beauty (Enniskillen) Wedding Hair & Makeup Salon County Antrim: Chloe LuLu at The Glam Studio (Newtownabbey) Wedding Hair & Makeup Salon Belfast: Ashlee-Nicole Funky Hair & Nails Wedding Boutique of the Year Northern Ireland: Divinity Bridal (Lisburn) Wedding Boutique of the Year County Derry/Londonderry: Verona Bridal (Magherafelt) Wedding Boutique of the Year County Armagh: Orchid Bridal Studio (Portadown) Wedding Venue of the Year County Derry/Londonderry: Arbutus at the Crannagh (Coleraine) Wedding Venue of the Year County Tyrone: Corick House Hotel & Spa (Clogher) Freelance Wedding Makeup Specialist: Connie McGrath Makeup Artist (Holywood)

Ashlee Nicole Funky Hair.

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Corick House Hotel & Spa.

MARIE THÉRÈSE BRIDAL

13 Railway Road, Coleraine www.mtbridal.com 028 7055 6152

7 Meeting St, Magherafelt www.veronabridal.co.uk 028 7963 3232

Describe a typical working day for you.

My morning begins with the school run, then an all important cup of tea, while I reply to emails and social media messages. My day generally includes a variety of exciting things such as, meeting new brides for their first consultations to assist them in finding their dream gown, brides retrying their favourite gowns, welcoming brides back instore to try their very own dresses for the first time, to advertising our latest designs in social media and our website and of course the all important buying trips.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy how rewarding it is to help someone find their dream gown. It’s such a privilege to be involved in such a special moment with each and every bride.

dreamy dresses Ulster Tatler’s Chloe Heaney talks to Shellie Watson, Proprietor of Divinity Bridal in Lisburn, who scooped the award for Wedding Boutique Of The Year Overall Winner at the NI Wedding Awards 2020.

What advice would you give to brides who have just got engaged and haven’t begun their journey to the perfect dress yet?

I would advise brides who are about to embark on their search to do a little research and choose only a few boutiques that best suit their style. It’s best to begin your search approx 1.5 years before your wedding date.

We find this leads to a really relaxed, stress free process throughout. Other than that I find the best way is to be completely openminded and allow our bridal experts to guide you through the collection. We will try on lots of dresses, have lots of fun and hopefully by

The team at Base Hair & Beauty pictured with their award.

Covering both beauty and hair treatments all under one roof.. we do our best to offer you the best quality salon experience..

COUNTY FERMANAGH WINNER! Hair & Makeup specialist of the year

Base Hair & Beauty 33 Belmore St, Enniskillen BT74 6AA Tel: 028 6632 3333 110

the end of your consultation, we will have found you your dream gown.

What are the popular dress trends and styles for 2020 / 2021?

Our 2020/2021 brides are still adoring the sleek crepe fitted gowns with the laser cut trains and illusion bodices, but there is also a return to the classic silhouettes of fitted intricate lace gowns and elegant ball gowns with a modern twist.

WINNER BEST BRIDAL BOUTIQUE IN CO ARMAGH

18 Bridge Street South Portadown BT62 3NW Tel: 028 3830 2121 www.orchidbridalstudio.com

Janet Preston and Claire Hamilton (Paper Dot).

Homebaked wedding cakes that taste as good as they look Award winning stationery studio Invitations Ta b l e n u m b e r s & name settings Seating plans & signs Commissions

Mobile. 07840 044 946 Email. vonscakeart@gmail.com

Email Website Te l Social Media 112

paperdotni@gmail.com w w w.paperdot.co.uk 07805028805 @paperdotni

WEDDING BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR

Mult I AwAr D-wI N N I N g B O ut I q uE • Bespoke Design Service Coming Soon • In-house Alterations Service Available!

• Catherine Parry Collection Arriving Soon • Divinity Bridal’s Own Exclusive Collection In Store Now

29 Longstone Street, Lisburn

Tel: 028 9269 0876 Email: info@divinitybridal.co.uk

Who could make your wedding bands with more love and care than you?

The Jewellers Workshop is happy to make this thought a reality... ...with a one-day experience in our fully equipped workshop of which you will have exclusive use. When crafting your rings, you will be given expert tuition and will be guided through each step, starting with the design, then heating, shaping, hammering, soldering and polishing. Once finished, the rings will be sent off to London to be hallmarked. Any finishing or polishing that is required will be done by us to ensure the rings are perfect for your special day.

When booking, we will discuss the materials you would like to use, you could even incorporate a sentimental piece of jewellery from within your family towards the making of your rings, securing family heritage as generations before us have done.

We are a family run business based in the beautiful award-winning village of Broughshane at the foot of Slemish Mountain, the garden village of Ulster. Specialising in wedding and engagement ring design, we recently won 2020 Wedding Jeweller of the Year at the Northern Ireland Wedding Awards.

Your workshop package includes our guidance, hallmarking, photos, tea, coffee and lunch, finishing, valuation, a certificate and a double ring box to keep your rings safe for that special day.

Prices : Couple ÂŁ295.00 : Single ÂŁ225.00 Cost of metals extra.

Find us on Facebook @thejewellersworkshopni

Jubilee Mews 61 Main Street, Broughshane, Ballymena BT42 4JP Telephone : 028 2556 7100

Photo: Laura McKay

Photo: Chris Culbert

Photo: Chris Semple

TAKE TWO STUDIO BESPOKE VIDEOGRAPHY

TAILORED WEDDING FILMS Photo: Laura McKay

Photo: Chris Culbert

Videographer of the Year

07872 938660 www.taketwostudio.com hello@taketwostudio.com

Tel: 07545 279882 info@kathrynsflowerbarn.co.uk @kathrynsflowerbarn 115

Photo: Chris Semple

Bespoke Wedding flowers for your special day

capture a guest jiving or breakdancing!

When the guests are on their feet busy dancing the night away, I pack up my gear and head off! Most other days when I am not shooting, I am just sat in front of the computer editing and marketing, doing general admin!

Not as exciting as the shoot but still such an amazing part of my job!

Capture every moment Ulster Tatler’s Chloe Heaney talks to Dannielle Whitehouse, Creative Director and CEO of The Dixie Mix Photography (Wedding Photographer of the Year at the NI Wedding Awards 2020).

Describe a typical working day for you.

On days I’m out shooting a wedding I’d start with the getting ready shots and capture all the small details the bride may have missed among the mayhem of the morning! I’d also get the bride fastening up the dress, usually with mother-of-the-bride or bridesmaid in the shot! After this it’s off to the ceremony to get the shots of the boys which ends with him looking nervous and sweating a little!

When the bride arrives, I capture her final moments before walking down the aisle. I’ll then go stand in front of the groom. There’s no greater pleasure than seeing his reaction when seeing his wife-to-be for the first time!

Shooting the ceremony comes next and I am usually as discreet as possible, shooting from corners to not get in the way of the ceremony.

Afterwards, I capture the couple walking down the aisle, exiting the ceremony as husband and wife! Later with the bridal party, family and intimate couple photos, I let my

creative juices flow, bringing out smoke bombs and getting creative with angles as well as unusual poses to create the perfect shot! I like to do some sneak shots of guests laughing and talking, showing the relaxed vibe of the day as well as taking any small detail pictures like table plans, signs, displays and other details the couple have went to the trouble of setting up. After the meal I’ll often ask guests (especially those that may not have been in the photo session earlier in the day) if they’d like a photo taken. During the first dance, I capture the couple soaking up the moment of their song, surrounded by their friends and family. I always say my packages last until the first dance but I never leave until a few boogie songs in just in case I can

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Definitely getting to meet so many people. I get to shoot people on the happiest days of their lives, surrounded by their families who are also amazingly happy. To get brought into that house on a wedding morning and feel part of the family is something truly special. The people are what make me love my job so much, I’ve been very grateful to have had the best couples to work with!

What advice would you give to couples who are starting to look for their photographer but aren’t sure where to start?

I’d say definitely go meet the photographer you like. They’ll be a big part of your day and you want to get on with them and ensure they make you feel relaxed, so their personality plays a massive part! Secondly, look at their style of work. Photographers each have a different style and it really depends on what you like in an overall look. I always say that the photographs and video are all you have left when the day is over, so if you have to spend

% Bespoke floral designer for all occasions % Specialising in weddings 31 Church Street, Antrim BT41 4BE Tel: 028 9422 8010 ivylanefloraldesign@hotmail.com

• Unique bespoke wedding cakes • Delivering to anywhere in Ireland • Second year in a row winning Regional Cake Designer of the Year for Armagh

Tel: 07871 342000 Email: homecaked@gmail.com 116

a little extra getting the right person, it’s totally worth it, as you will have those memories for years to come.

What does the year 2020 hold for The Dixie Mix? 2020 is my busiest year to date, taking on the most weddings I ever have. I am excited for the challenge and to see all of the amazing couples tie the knot in the year to come. I’m exploding with new creative ideas to push the boundaries of wedding photography, giving my couples something to cherish for the rest of their lives.

My goal is to leave my couples in awe at the photos I give them, making them think “Is that really me?”. I have so many new plans, new packages and some amazing collaborations on the way, it makes me so excited!

wedding boutique of the year Wedding Venue of The Year, Derry/Londonderry

Shellie and her team at Divinity Bridal were so overwhelmed at being voted 2020 Wedding Boutique of the Year at the recent NI Wedding Awards in January. This is the second time they have received this award and they feel so humbled each time their brides take the time to vote. As a multi-award winning boutique, it has been a privilege to add this latest accolade to their awards cabinet. They have so many exciting plans for 2020 and all will be revealed in the coming months.

www.arbutuscatering.com/weddings-at-the-crannagh Arbutus at The Crannagh is the perfect place for your magical day. Our three sided glass marquee, The River Room, seats up to 160 guests. Featuring stunning views over the River Bann, The Crannagh is a spot that you will fall in love with.

78 Portstewart Road, Coleraine BT52 1SB Tel: 07818 673339 • info@arbutuscatering.com

For more information visit www.divinitybridal.co.uk

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ER IGNE AGH

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G CO DIN R IN D A WE E YE TH

1b Old Henry Street, Enniskillen Tel: 075 9030 9035 Email: loughernecakes@gmail.com www.loughernecakes.com 117

Derry/Londonderry at the NI Wedding Awards 2020.

Describe a typical working day for you.

As I have four young boys, one of them just five months and the other three; 2, 4 and 6 years old, I’m currently juggling mummy duty (usually involving making bottles, breakfasts, school runs) with shop transfers and meetings until my husband returns from work which is when I begin my management, accounts, marketing and all other admin that ensures the smooth running of my two award-winning bridal stores.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The rewarding part is when we see the finished product and how our couture gowns completely dazzle us in photographs sent from our brides along with notes of thanks. It makes you feel that all the time and effort is worth every second.

Spoilt for choice Ulster Tatler’s Chloe Heaney talks to Marie Therese Hickey - Bridal Stylist and Shop Owner of Marie Therese Bridal & Verona Bridal (Wedding Boutique of the Year County

What has been a stand out moment in your career so far?

Winning Top Bridal Shop in Northern Ireland through the UK WEDDING AWARDS 2020 and finalist in the UK Bridal Shop of the year recently in London.

What are the style trends of 2020?

We are seeing an increase in destination weddings, brides not wanting the hustle and

norm of an Irish church and hotel wedding, instead opting for guaranteed sunshine therefore opting for breathable light fabrics such as chiffon, tulle, light crepes and silks.

Our couture designer gowns are almost all lightweight and all cater for the bride who wants their gown to feel like second skin.

Our Berta gowns with their exposed corsetry tick the boxes for those brides who are body confident and happy to show off their figures.

Plunging necklines are here to stay for the foreseeable future, even Kate Middleton is a fan and in today’s society perfectly acceptable for the fashionista Irish bride. Puff sleeves are making a comeback from the eighties. When it comes to bridal gowns, sparkle never goes out of style, we see new takes on traditional sequins and beading with our Millanova and Julie Vino gowns incorporating fab mirroreffect embellishment to full glittered textiles.

What does the year 2020 hold for Verona Bridal?

We are currently seeking a new larger premises for Verona Bridal so we can really show off our world famous take on some new labels that have approached us to represent them and also have an in store cafe where brides can sit and discuss their tick list with our stylists! We also have a few state-of-theart, in-store features not seen anywhere else worldwide yet! Watch this space! You’re in for a treat Verona Bridal brides-to-be!

Self-taught, award-winning Cake Designer, est. 2016 Winner of Cake Designer of the Year at the Northern Ireland Wedding Awards 2018 and 2020 (finalist in 2019)

H A I R , B E AU T Y & ACA D E M Y LT D

The Glam Studio is the ultimate one stop shop

We specialise in Bridal Hair and Makeup • Academy courses such as Makeup and Lashes • Russian/Classic Lashes • Hair Extensions • Precision Definition Brows • General Makeup and Hair Upstyling Chloe LuLu at the Glam Studio First Floor, 29 Ballyclare Road, Glengormley, BT36 5EU Tel: 07885 201913 Email: chloe_rosbotham@live.com

The Cake Clan, 24a Cranlome Road, Dungannon, BT70 2HS Tel: 07391 539238 Email: thecakeclan@hotmail.com 118

MEET DAVID NELSON YO U R D E N T I S T F O R I M P L A N T S

Teeth In A Day at Cranmore Dr Nelson has a Masters Degree in Dental Implantology and his area of practice is dedicated to implant treatment. He has been placing implants for over 15 years and regularly accepts referrals from other dentists for all aspects of dental implant treatment.

Cranmore is fully equipped with a Cone Beam CT scanner to accurately plan your treatment. The incorporation of digital technology is integral to Dr Nelson’s approach.

Patients have the option of computer guided surgery for highly precise treatment. With his intra oral scanner, Dr Nelson can eliminate the need for gooey impression material.

DAVID NELSON, BDS MSC (IMP DENT) CLINICAL LEAD

three to six months) your final restoration is fitted.

Teeth in a day can successfully provide a solution for missing teeth in a single appointment without the waiting time associated with traditional dental implant treatment.

It is often considered as a solution for a person who has no teeth and is a denture wearer.

Benefits of Teeth in a Day.

Complimentary, no obligation consultations are available with our Patient Care Coordinator.

- Restores the form and function of your teeth within the same day.

- Stable replacement teeth for eating, speaking and smiling with confidence.

- Eliminates the pain of ill-fitting dentures.

What are teeth in a day?

Is it the right time for you?

As the name suggests this treatment involves the placement of dental implants and attachment of provisional teeth restorations within the same day. It usually requires between 4 and 6 implants depending on your individual needs. After the requisite healing time (approximately

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

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

BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY IMPLANT CONSULTATION* TODAY 15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE T: 028 9038 1822 E: info@cranmoredental.com

www.cranmoredental.com *Non clinical consultation with Patient Care Coordinator.

Tried & Tested

“Apex Headache Clinic cleared my jaw pain, allowing me to enjoy life again” Stephanie, when did your jaw pain begin?

I experienced jaw pain for the first time eight years ago and it has been part of my life ever since. It started with an audible pop, which was extremely painful. My GP referred me to the School of Dentistry and I was told that it was nothing to worry about as it was most likely stress related. I attended classes to reduce stress, took up yoga and wore a mouth guard, none of which did anything to help the pain. I returned six months later and was told to try chewing gum and left with a range of jaw exercises to do three times a day. I found these to be really irritating and they actually made the pain worse, so I eventually stopped doing them.

How did the pain affect your life?

It was awful. The whole left side of my face was painful. I felt like no one understood what it was like to live this way. It was extremely stressful, which in turn caused me more pain, as I’d click my jaw out of habit when I was anxious. I found that my speech was also affected so because of this, I didn’t talk very much. My face and mouth were constantly sore and I was living with it frequently clicking and popping. The pain was so bad that I couldn’t even yawn.

What led you to Apex Headache Clinic?

Because I was desperate to find a cure, every few months I would check online to see if there were any new treatments I could try and I came across Apex Headache Clinic. With nothing to lose, I decided to book an appointment. At my initial assessment, Michelle diagnosed the pain as stemming from my neck. She could actually pinpoint the exact source of it and I could feel it when she pressed it. I was so shocked, mainly because I had seen so many different people over the years and no one mentioned that this could have been a possibility. I now understood why everything I’d tried in the past hadn’t worked. Initially, I attended Apex Headache Clinic twice a week before we reduced this to once a week. Over just a course of a few weeks, I noticed a gradual improvement and a couple of months later, the pain completely cleared. I couldn’t believe it!

How has your life changed since having treatment?

As well as being pain-free, I’ve seen a massive improvement in my speech. As an admin manager, talking is a big part of the job and it had definitely impacted on it. I also find that I can de-stress a lot quicker now because when I was stressed, this would cause more pain, which was a vicious circle.

For 32-year-old admin manager Stephanie Cochrane from Belfast, life was a struggle. For eight years she lived with constant jaw pain, which was awful. After trying everything to cure the pain with no relief, Stephanie visited Apex Headache Clinic, in a final attempt to get to the source of the problem.

Here, she shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment, called The Nelson Jaw ApproachTM, cleared her jaw pain, meaning that she could finally get her life back on track.

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What advice would you offer someone suffering from jaw pain?

You definitely need to go to Apex Headache Clinic. There’s no point in messing about with alternatives. I’d tried everything and this is the only thing in eight years that has worked for me.

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

028 9048 4153

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Column / Physiotherapy Matters

Rebecca Nelson

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

Pillow Talk: Is Your Pillow Damaging Your Health?

This month, Apex Clinic Founder and Spinal & Headache Physiotherapy Specialist, Rebecca Nelson shares the secrets on pillows and discusses the Apex Sleepwell Pillow range, her own orthopaedic pillow collection, clinically proven to reduce or clear neck pain and headaches in the majority of cases.

The wrong pillow can have catastrophic consequences Did you know that sleeping on the wrong pillow can mean much more than simply just a bad night’s sleep? For more than 25 years I have been treating patients suffering from neck and shoulder pain, as well as headaches and migraines, and for many of these people their sleep is disturbed due to their pain.

It’s commonly unknown that soft or flat pillows can actually increase or even trigger the onset of neck pain, shoulder pain, arm pain, stiffness, pins and needles/ numbness in the hands and arms, painful headaches, migraines and even vertigo or dizziness.

Winning the war against poor pillows To combat the awful effects that poor pillows have on our health, the Apex Sleepwell Pillow range is my own collection of orthopaedic pillows, uniquely designed in thickness and firmness to match the individual needs of sleepers according to their build. Each pillow has been technologically innovated to include the latest high-density core that unlike other pillows on the market, runs throughout the pillow’s entire width. This central core plays an important role in ensuring the precise level of support needed for the optimum sleeping position for a healthy and pain-free neck, head and shoulders.

Prevention is always better than the cure At Apex Clinic, we firmly believe that prevention is always better than cure. So, for adults or teens who are fortunate enough to have never suffered neck pain or headaches, the Apex Sleepwell Pillow is highly recommended to help prevent the onset of neck related pains in later life. Sleeping on a pillow which is too soft or flat causes the neck joints to be compressed and placed under excessive load by the weight of the head. When lying down, the optimum neck position can be achieved by lifting the head very slightly upwards to an angle of between 30° to 45° from the horizontal. This allows the neck joints to

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open up and is physiologically the best sleeping position for a healthy neck and spine.

Choosing your perfect pillow When it comes to choosing your pillow it’s essential that your pillow fits your body shape and size to ensure your neck is at the correct angle while you sleep. The Apex Sleepwell range does just that perfectly.

Our two pillow types are dependent on the height/thickness of the pillow. The H2 pillow is suitable for lightly built adults and teenagers, or for those who don’t like their pillow to be too fat. The H3 pillow is for average and larger builds, or simply for those who prefer a slightly fatter pillow.

Begin the road to recovery now with the Apex Sleepwell Pillow It’s amazing how quickly a simple change of pillow can put people on the road to recovery from neck pain, neck stiffness, headaches, migraines, vertigo or pains in the shoulders and arms. To purchase an Apex Sleepwell Pillow, please call Apex Clinic on 028 9048 4153 or alternatively pop into our Belfast clinic in the Stormont area of Belfast.

028 9048 4153

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

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Therapist: Catrina Bell

Oak Tree Therapies is available for anyone who wishes to reduce stress levels, feel more self confident, gain control of anxiety/fears and phobias, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, manage pain, improve sleep, stop smoking or get rid of any addiction and so much more... including sports performance.

Therapies I provide are:

• Clinical Hypnotherapy/Psychotherapy • CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) • Reiki (Master Practitioner) • Counselling (BACP Acc & NCS Acc) • NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) • Egyptian Sekhem

The power is within… …Change is an ever-evolving part of the ‘journey’ we each take throughout our lives…

Sometimes we lose our way, have no map to guide us, no signposts to direct us through the seasons of life and it can get tiresome when the ‘terrain’ changes, when the storms move in and darken our view.

Oak Tree Therapies is aimed at helping you to realise that the power to take back control is within you!

As Karen Horney (1950) stated; “if obstacles are removed…an acorn will develop into a beautiful oak tree…” This is the inspiration behind my holistic (mind, body, soul) approach here at Oak Tree Therapies.

Here in the therapeutic setting of Houston’s Mill in Broughshane, Co. Antrim, I offer a safe space where we can work together to remove the obstacles that block your path…

“Every second is a second chance.”

Catrina Bell (30th Jan 2020)

Where will your journey lead you?

Houston’s Mill, Broughshane, BT42 4NJ For appointments call 077 6382 3224 or email oaktreetherapies@outlook.com Find us online at www.oaktreetherapiesni.com

Column

Terrell Riley Terrell Riley is proprietor of Transformation Kid, in Ballymena.

It’s Not All About Looks, Kids Terrell Riley (also known as Transformation Kid) discusses the other benefits of living a healthy lifestyle, aside from just aesthetics.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

Fitness isn’t just about aesthetics (looking good), it’s about being healthy and feeling great both mentally and physically. The pictures depicted are a selection of my clients at different stages of their transformations.

The ‘before and after’ pictures range from between 6 all the way up to 8 and 12 weeks

AFTER

BEFORE

(it doesn’t take long for any individual on a consistent eating/exercise plan to feel and see the benefits of healthy living).

These guys, for the most part, all have different body shapes, with inevitably different results showcased. They do, however, share one thing in common; they all look healthier, feel healthier and are more positive, happier people due to the implementation of good nutrition and exercise into their lives. If they stay on this path, they are all greatly increasing their chances to live longer, be more productive, have more problem free lives, at work, at home, and within themselves.

Depression, anxiety, addiction and instability within oneself are all common these days due to the nature of modern-day society, and a lot of the time it’s a lack of not looking after our bodies that can worsen, or even bring these afflictions about. It’s not always the cure, but can be in some cases, or

My aim in life is to get as many people as healthy as possible For more information:

Instagram: transformationkid Facebook: Transformation KID Website: www.transformationkid.com 123

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

definitely can at least help to make things easier for us both mentally and physically.

Our primarily sedentary lifestyles, coupled with fast convenience foods, and stressful work environments are all aiding to create imbalance in our hormones/minds. So, we need to counterbalance this by eating better, and moving more.

I guess the message I’m trying to convey to everyone is that anyone can change their ways. There is advice everywhere you look nowadays about how it can be achieved (TV, magazines, books, the list goes on).

And besides that, it costs just as much to live unhealthily as it does to start in the local gym or buy some wholesome food from your local supermarket. Don’t wait for a healthy lifestyle to come knocking at your door, you have to get up and make it part of your life. Be willing to make changes that benefit you for now and for the future, and choose to be better. Trust me, you won’t ever look back lovely people!

FOR EXCEPTIONAL EYECARE CHOOSE

What is Telford Opticians all about?

At Telford Opticians we want to do one thing and that is simply to provide you with the very best eyecare. We take our time, we invest in technology, we continually advance our clinical skills and we tailor each and every appointment to your exact needs. So whether it’s the latest contact lenses, a solution for dry eyes, an eye test for your digital lifestyle or just a beautiful pair of spectacles, we want to find you the perfect answer.

What are the highlights of your job?

It’s the people that we get to meet on a daily basis and the craic we have. Coming to see us should be really enjoyable, a bit of a chat, a cup of coffee and brilliant eye care.

Our job is part science and part fashion. On the science side we are the official Zeiss Partner for North Down. Zeiss are a global leader in optical technology and constantly provide new solutions for us to use.

One great example of this is the Zeiss UvProtect lens. This is the only clear lens in the world that offers 100% UV protection for your eyes.

As a Zeiss partner, we know that every pair of Zeiss spectacles we produce provides 100% UV protection. You protect your skin against the ravages of UV and now you can protect your eyes. On the fashion side we get to frame style the perfect shape, size, colour and look.

In practice we have some amazing ranges from Etnia Barcelona, to Woow, Vanni, Orgreen and Cazal. These may not be the designer names that you are most familiar with but they are without doubt, some of the best designed and beautiful frames in the world. When you get the right frame combined with the right lenses it makes all the difference. We love what we do and we love doing a great job.

Screen time is a big issue today, do you have any advice to avoid strain on the eyes?

Yes, the obvious is to try to limit the time spent on screen and this is especially important for children. Use the settings on your screen such as night time mode, make sure you blink regularly, check your environment, is it too hot or dry and consider a blue protect filter

on your lenses. Again it is vital that all children are having their free annual eye test as the increase in screen time is now being linked to an increase in myopia (short-sightedness).

How often should you get your eyes tested?

At least every two years and if you are under 18 or over 70 then it should be every year. An eye test checks how well you are seeing but also looks at the health of your eyes. Besides the conventional eye test we can now take things to a different level. Technology allows us to 3D screen and examine your eyes 30,000 times a second, this is the future and a giant leap forward in your care.

Are there any red flags people should be looking out for to make an appointment?

We all get things from time to time that we want to get checked out. Red eyes, itchy eyes, flashing lights, wiggly lines. At Telford’s we are an accredited NHS Pears Practice which means we are your first port of call for everything eye related. Don’t ever wait, get it checked.

What are the current trends in glasses, do you find that they become an accessory as well as a necessity?

100% and it is great to see spectacles becoming as important as a piece of jewellery. There is no other accessory or item of clothing as prominent as your spectacles. People are becoming much more adventurous with colour and design and it is fantastic to see the difference a great pair of spectacles can make. We buy from all over the world and attend trade fairs in Paris and Milan to ensure we always have the lastest fashion. But quality is vital and we only buy the best of the best. In practice we have fantastic dispensing opticians to ensure you get the perfect combination of frame style and lens choice every time.

We want to do one thing, to provide you with the very best eyecare. Call in and see what you think.

5 High Street, Newtownards, BT23 8GW T: 028 9182 2099 www.telfordopticians.co.uk 123 Main Street, Bangor, BT20 4PR T: 028 9127 0688 Facebook: Telford Opticians

UlsterTatler

SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL

FOCUS ON

Charity This month, Ulster Tatler continues to look at the wonderful work that is being done by local charitable organisations throughout the province. We chat to some of the people who run charities and find out what makes them so passionate about their organisations. They range from small groups, which seek to address community needs with limited resources, to household name charities, functioning around the world, with budgets of millions. They receive support from society in many ways, from donations of money, volunteering time and skills, attendance at charity events or fundraisers, through to small acts such as liking a charity’s Facebook page or sharing the charity’s news.

Autonomie’s Strictly Our Achievements Celebration event which was held at La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Comber.

We encourage young people with additional needs to try new things, learn new skills and meet new people. Each week, in Belfast we help young people with additional needs aged 16-25 access fun activities while developing the skills to live independently and achieve their potential.

Weekday and weekend activities include: - Cookery and baking - Facilitator led sleepovers at Lilac House - Money management - Arts and crafts - Fitness and games - Cinema and theatre visits - Restaurant visits - Cultural outings - Social and recreational opportunities - Volunteering opportunities - Education and work focus training - Youth forum

Support for families With Autonomie’s Family Support Services, families can access practical support including signposting, wellbeing sessions and opportunities for the whole family to enjoy time together at accessible venues.

Volunteer today Volunteering at Autonomie is fun and rewarding. We offer a Youth work model and volunteers provide one-to-one support to help young people with additional needs participate fully in a range of activities.

Get involved

Have a look at our website www.autonomie.org.uk to find out more.

For further information Autonomie, Lilac House (Linked Independent Living and Advice Centre), 4 Sandhurst Road, Belfast, BT7 1PW

Tel: 02895918051 Email: hello@autonomie.org.uk

Registered Charity No (NI): 100421

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LOAF ULSTER TATLER ADVERT FULL PAGE.qxp_Layout 1 22/01/2020 08:59 Page 1

FOOD WITH PURPOSE

Loaf Catering is an award winning social enterprise running four cafes and delivering catering across Greater Belfast. Our profits support people with learning difficulties and autism into jobs with a future.

• The Bobbin Coffee Shop in Belfast City Hall • Loaf Cafe & Bakery on the Grosvenor Road (RVH) • Loaf Pottery, Cafe & Wood Fired Pizza in Crawfordsburn • Loaf Cafe at the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh

Tel: 028 9031 3123

CATERING

www.loafcatering.com

Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Did you know That the average person in Northern Ireland is responsible for 5.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year?

Super heroes plant trees!

Drumnaph Woodland, Maghera

The Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland explains that we’re all responsible for emission, but there are things we can all do to reduce our carbon footprint too.

We’re all responsible for emissions, but there are things we can all do to reduce our carbon footprint too. Some key areas to think about are: •

•

•

•

Energy - Becoming more energy efficient will help to reduce your footprint. Limit waste and consider switching to a supplier that provides renewable energy.

Food – Consider what you eat and where it comes from. Studies show that meat and dairy are the most environmentally damaging food types. Food produced in the UK is generally less carbon intensive than imported products.

Retail – From fashion to furniture, everything we buy generates emissions. The easiest way to reduce your emissions is to simply buy less. When you do buy, choose second-hand

items or purchase from sustainable retailers.

Travel - Walking, cycling and public transport are all better alternatives to driving. Flying is carbon- intensive, so limiting the number of flights can really help reduce your footprint.

‘‘

...Each year roughly 20 million tonnes of CO2 is absorbed by the UK’s forests. The carbon will eventually be re-released into the atmosphere as the trees decay, before being reabsorbed by new trees...”

Trees eat carbon for breakfast The increase in CO2 levels within the atmosphere is the driving force behind climate change; capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere is vital in the fight against climate change. Trees play a key role in the carbon cycle as they absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.

Each year roughly 20 million tonnes of CO2 is absorbed by the UK’s forests. The carbon will eventually be re-released into the atmosphere as the trees decay, before being reabsorbed by new trees. As

Carnmoney Hill

a result, it is vital to both protect existing trees and plant new ones to cope with the rising CO2 levels caused by human activity.

How you can help You can mitigate your own impact by helping us to care for our woods, ensuring they continue to absorb and store carbon emissions.

By making a donation, you’ll help protect and add to this extensive carbon store, ensuring it continues to absorb emissions, as well as creating natural havens for wildlife and people.

Every £100 donated will help us care for enough woodland to capture and store around 4 tonnes of carbon. A donation of £137.40 would allow us to look after enough woodland to capture and store 5.5 tonnes of CO2, matching the figure for the average UK person’s yearly carbon footprint. The donation amount is up to you, but can be set up as a regular direct debit or as a one off donation.

Your donation will be spent exclusively on the maintenance of our woodland estate. The woods in our care are a valuable carbon store, removing CO2 from the air as part of the carbon cycle.

To support us and find out more visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/support-us/give/donations

Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

Shaping Ourselves And Our Children Learn how life at home shapes our children.

Shaping Ourselves and Our Children (SOOC) is an innovative cross-border parenting programme being delivered by the Lifestart Foundation, Lifestart Services Ltd, Sligo Family Support Centre, the Dunluce Family Centre and Barnardos. This €1.3 million project is supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Match-funding has been provided by the Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development in Ireland.

The programme aims to support parents of young children in Northern Ireland and the border region of the Republic of Ireland to create a home conducive to good child social and emotional development, inclusiveness and a respect for social and cultural diversity.

Between May 2018 and March 2021 the four session interactive programme will be delivered one day a week over four weeks to groups of 12 parents in communities in:

‘‘

- Ards - Derry/Londonderry

...This is the best course I was ever on, please do this for your children!”...”

- Donegal

- A parent who took part

- West Cavan

- Fermanagh - Leitrim - Limavady - Sligo - Strabane

on the course.

The short course is available for mums, dads, grandparents, guardians and carers of young children. And it’s FREE. The course offers the following: • • • • • •

Information on child social and emotional development Understand how children develop self esteem and confidence Supporting children’s understanding of others Communication skills and behavioural management Learning through play - interactive play day with kids (Day 4) Diversity - understand how biases and prejudices are shaped

To learn more about the courses contact Mary or Sharleen on 028 71 365 363 or 078 5124 6095. ROI contact number: 085 154 8508 Email: mary.holmes@lifestartfoundation.org www.lifestartfoundation.org Facebook: Shaping Ourselves and Our Children

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Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Moving Mountains - Changing Lives the long term ethos we have they become secure, educated adults with a future.

Because of this Moving Mountains is viewed as a family, and people who get involved become part of a very special cause that is emotional and fulfilling.

How can you get involved?

•

•

•

•

A school in Nepal that has benefited from the work of Moving Mountains.

Can you tell us a bit about Moving Mountains for those who don’t know?

We are a charity based on the north coast in Portstewart which has set up partner NGOs in Kenya and Nepal. We also fund smaller projects in Tanzania and Morocco.

We work on the relief of poverty, especially for street children in Kenya, and remote mountain communities in Nepal.

Our focus is on education, health and social welfare.

‘Moving Mountains’ refers to the enormous challenge that young girls and boys living on the streets have to endure every day just to survive. We help these children ‘move mountains’ just to get the basics in life, and the love and attention to gain self-esteem and self-worth.

Founder Gavin Bate climbed Mount Everest six times between 2000 and 2011 to promote the charity and fundraise the

money to build eighteen schools, a children’s home, rescue centre, hydro electric plant and a large clinic.

How long has Moving Mountains been established?

Moving Mountains was established in 2002 and was founded by Everest mountaineer and social entrepreneur Gavin Bate, who made the north coast his home for many years and led many Northern Irish Scouting expeditions whilst also working in slum schools in Kenya.

North coast locals Chris Little and Andy MacDonald are still founding Trustees.

They travelled the world as Scouts and now contribute to the local community as well as managing the overseas charity projects from Portstewart.

Contact: Moving Mountains Trust Registered as a charity by the Northern Ireland Charity Commission under number 100742.

Tel: 028708 35124 (Chris Little or Andy MacDonald) Email: info@movingmountainstrust.org Website: www.movingmountainstrust.org Find us on Justgiving and on Virgin Money Giving

What work do you do to help those in need?

We provide a long term holistic support for needy children, including early child development, education costs throughout their lives, counselling and mentoring.

We work with families, schools, churches and communities to develop emotionally secure children who will break out of the poverty trap and ensure their own children will not suffer the same privations.

We build and renovate schools and facilities in East Africa, as well as clinics and homes, and we run a rescue centre that feeds 200 street children every day.

In Nepal we have built three schools in the mountains which now educate 500 children, two monasteries and an outreach clinic.

What do you like most about Moving Mountains?

Gavin Bate, Founder of Moving Mountains on the summit of Everest.

Help us promote the charity locally and organise fundraising events and appeals Help promote our fundraising treks and charity trips to Kenya, Tanzania and Nepal Donate regularly with a standing order - a small amount from a lot of people makes a big difference Encourage NI schools and youth groups to get involved with our ‘MM’ adventure trips to Kenya

It’s not short termist work, we see children grow up in the poverty trap, often in desperate circumstances, but because of

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A school project in Kenya.

Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

After his mother died, Diyan missed her loving hugs. But no one wanted to touch him because he had leprosy.

Imagine you’re just a child. You burn your hand very badly. But you don’t cry. You don’t even feel it. Why? Because leprosy has damaged the nerves in your hand. And people call you names. They push you away and reject you. Think what this must do to a child who has leprosy.

Diyan needs help not just to prevent him developing lifelong disabilities but also to deal with the pain of rejection in his heart.

Diyan was just six years old when he was diagnosed with leprosy. What scared him more than the physical damage the disease could cause, was the rejection and the fear on people’s faces when they found out he had leprosy.

It costs as little as £6* a month to help children like Diyan.

Leprosy still exists and it devastates the lives of people around the world. Every two minutes someone is diagnosed with leprosy.

But it is completely curable and, if a person is diagnosed early enough, they will not suffer any lasting effects. Tragically, many people are found too late, and leprosy has already damaged nerve endings in their hands, feet, arms and legs – as a result they suffer injury and infection which can lead to serious disabilities.

With your support we can help Diyan recover – both physically and emotionally.

YOU could make all the difference.

Your kindness will help heal the heartache of a child with leprosy.

Visit www.tlm-ni.org to help us end the injustice of leprosy. *£6 could help provide the cure for leprosy for one person. Funds donated will be used to help cure, care for and restore people affected by leprosy.

‘‘

...with your support we can help Diyan recover – both physically and emotionally.”

“Your gift today can help stop leprosy.”

Founded in 1874, The Leprosy Mission is an international Christian development organisation working in over 30 countries. Our vision is a world where leprosy is defeated, and lives are transformed. The Leprosy Mission Northern Ireland engages and educates people to help resource and support life-changing work in leprosyaffected countries.

Registered Charity No: NIC106322.

A Company Limited by Guarantee registered in Northern Ireland No: NI640401 Contact: 2a Queens Road, Lisburn BT27 4TZ T: 028 9262 9500 E: info@tlm-ni.org Facebook.com/tlmni

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Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

A Caring Sanctuary For Dogs Lucy’s Trust, established in 2010, has evolved over the past decade to become a sanctuary for dogs with behavioural issues. We pride ourselves in giving them a safe and comfortable environment in which they can flourish for the rest of their lives. The dogs live in pairs, in spacious kennels, or in our home with us.

Alongside caring for those dogs, we aim to educate the public to understand their dogs better, to prevent dog bites, and ensure that as many dogs as possible stay with their families. We provide behavioural assistance, advice and can cover the costs of a professional behaviourist

where the situation is warranted. We want to empower people to make the right choices from puppyhood on, so that they don’t ever need to consider rehoming their dog.

We work with some of Northern Ireland’s best “force free” dog behaviourists, who use positive methods (no fear, no pain, no discomfort) and who are up to date with current scientific methods.

It is very important to choose a dog behaviourist/trainer or simply a training class, which will help you improve your bond with your dog, but they are not all created equally!

Sadly in NI, there are still many trainers using outdated and punitive methods. If you are unsure as to what trainer/

‘‘

...It is our hope that through education and advice that more people will come to realise that they do not need to wait until the last minute to ask for help, and they do not need to “get rid” of their dog.”

behaviourist to enlist to help your dog, please get in touch, and we will put you in contact with the right one in your area.

It is our hope that through education and advice that more people will come to realise that they do not need to wait until the last minute to ask for help, and they do not need to “get rid” of their dog. The help is out there... there is a way to live a happy, harmonious life with their dog and we hope to help them find it.

We want to keep everyone safe, prevent bites from occurring and prevent dogs from feeling like they have no option BUT to bite. Our ULTIMATE mission is to make sure that dogs are no longer misunderstood, and that even though they have teeth, they no longer have to use them.

Please don’t wait until you have lost trust in your dog, and more importantly, until your dog has lost trust in you, before seeking help. Keep an eye on our Facebook page @lucystrust for upcoming talks and events, and please email lucystrust@yahoo.co.uk if you need any help to repair your relationship with your dog.

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Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

For 35 years, Friends of the Cancer Centre has been dedicated to making a real and meaningful difference to cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.

Friends of the Cancer Centre is here to enhance the quality of patient care and support through our life-changing and life-saving work. We do this by funding additional nurses, supporting local research and providing practical support, such as our financial grants, which help families through a difficult time.

Every year the charity provides:

Funding and support for 35 additional members of staff, including doctors, specialist nurses, research staff and more.

Over 50,000 cups of tea and coffee for people attending the Cancer Centre for treatment and appointments.

Vital funding for locally led research, which is helping to find new and improved ways to treat many types of cancer.

Over £100,000 in financial support to help families cover costs such as travel expenses, home heating bills and more.

Give Us Five

During our 35th anniversary year, we are calling on 350 people to Give Us Five and help us continue this vital work. Your donation of £5 per month could enable Friends of the Cancer Centre to provide a welcoming cup of tea or coffee for 21 people every month, or throughout the year could pay for 2 hours of care and support from one of the charity’s specialist nurses.

To set-up your regular gift, or to find out more, please visit www.friendsofthecancercentre.com/donate or telephone (028) 9069 9393.

Friends of the Cancer Centre, NI Cancer Centre, Belfast City Hospital, Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AB. 028 9069 9393 www.friendsofthecancercentre.com Charity number NIC101345

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“An organisation where you can grow and thrive without judgement; a sisterhood that loves and cares for you like family” Adriana

At the heart of JoinHer Network is “Variety In Diversity”. In May 2019 the JoinHer Network began its journey, bringing together an internationally diverse group of women. Together we agreed to change and influence women’s lives for the better, in a fresh and engaging manner. We recognised a need to bring a unique perspective, which each of us will play a fundamental role to achieve.

“Together we shine even more brightly. See how far that little candle throws its beams! So shines a good deed in a broken world” – Heather

The glass ceiling is yet to be broken for women but there are enough cracks! Women are being more daring and, yes, equally curious about what else they can accomplish beyond the office. JoinHer is about originality, getting together and collectively finding our purpose. We connect people and discover what makes the world a better place.

JoinHer Network CIC “A new happy place, full of friendship, love, laughter, energy, support and guidance. it has reignited my passion and my self-belief” – Una

What have we done so far? A talk show programme on NVTV, The Big Sleep Out supporting DePaul last December, talking positively about good mental health practices, the

For more information visit www.joinher.co.uk

upcoming International Women’s Day in March. These tell our story of which you can be a part. Be a part of something different, something diverse, inclusive, that cherishes equality and celebrates variety …that’s the JoinHer Network!

“Awesome, Flawsome, Fabulous, Friendship” – Barbara

Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

Supporting Local Children Ulster Tatler’s Kellie Burch talks to Lauren Baxter, Charity Manager of Cash for Kids NI. Tell us a bit about Cash for Kids?

Cash for Kids is the official charity of Bauer Radio, operating across 22 local areas in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In Cash for Kids NI we are partnered with Cool FM, Downtown Radio and Downtown Country, and every pound we raise here, stays here to support local children.

Our mission is to respond to the needs of children in our communities. We aspire to enable all children to live life to the full and achieve their individual potential. We raise funds to provide relief from illness, disability or disadvantage among children in Northern Ireland, aged 0-18. In 2018 in Northern Ireland we raised over £1,000,000 and supported 15,000 disadvantaged children.

Together, we can make a difference!

How can people get involved and help the charity?

Cash for Kids NI run campaigns and events all year round, so there are loads of opportunities to get involved and support us!

Here are some of our upcoming events:

• Cash for Kids Day – 3rd April 2020 Cash for Kids Day, on 3rd April, is our biggest live fundraiser of the year. This year, we are encouraging Schools and Workplaces to ‘Rave and Raise’ by hosting a Fundraver inspired event – so it could be a neon bake sale, a 90’s dress day or even crank up the tunes and host your own fundraver to brighten up your Friday lunch time!

• Megavan – 1st May 2020 Cash for Kids Megavan is a huge text to donate campaign held annually, were listeners donate £5 to Cash for Kids for an opportunity to win the contents of our Megavan! The Megavan is jam-packed full of prizes kindly donated by businesses and organisations from across Northern Ireland.

In 2019, there were over £17,000 worth of prizes donated including a hot-tub, spa breaks and a £3,000 holiday! On Friday 1st May we will take over the airwaves on Cool FM, Downtown Radio and Downtown Country and give our listeners an opportunity to donate and win our Megavan!

• Charity Challenge In May/June this year, we will be launching a brand-new campaign called Charity Challenge, where we’ll be granting seed funds to small local charities across Northern Ireland and using our fundraising expertise

to help them raise as much as they can! The Charity that raises the most will receive an additional top-up grant from Cash for Kids!

• Mission Christmas Mission Christmas is our biggest campaign of the year, it’s what we’re best known for and it’s also the biggest gift appeal in Northern Ireland. For some families, sadly, Christmas is just another day. We call on the Northern Irish public to donate gifts to their local Mission Christmas drop-off points and we then distribute these to ensure that no child wakes up Christmas morning without a gift. In 2019 we provided gifts to 13,360 disadvantaged children in NI. What has been a stand out moment for you in working with Cash for Kids?

For me, my stand out moment working for Cash for Kids was awarding a £5,000 grant to the winners of our inaugural Schools Challenge. I was at the school to announce that they had won the challenge and it was a truly great feeling, seeing the smiles on the pupils’ faces and the sheer delight of the teachers! In total, they raised £17,877.00 and were going to use this money to build a Soft Play Sensory room for the pupils!

A Platform for Women Across NI have attained many awards, the highlight to date was becoming the first female architect in Ireland to receive an MBE for my contribution to business and to architecture.

This combination meant I was acutely aware of the challenges women face.

Ulster Tatler talks to Johann Muldoon, founder of The Lessons Learnt and Platform NI. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Johann Muldoon, I am an architect, managing director of Manor Architects, mother of three children aged 5, 4 and 2 years, I am married to a dairy farmer and live in Ballymoney.

I have been fortunate in my career to

How did The Lessons Learnt and Platform NI come about?

As I sat with my dying friend in Omagh hospital talking about our lives, I realised that as I was about to lose her, just as I had lost my mother some seven years previous, that her story and my mother’s before, would never be shared.

So on 28th August 2019 I established a Facebook group for women called ‘The Lessons Learnt’. I wanted to give women a voice and to share their stories in a positive supportive platform.

Within three months it was the largest private group in the country and now has over 7800 members. The response and stories shared were the impetus for the creation of Platform NI. The charity aims has four core objectives; to give women a platform, to raise their voices, raise their spirits, and raise their presence.

The charity will assist and relieve women

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in need, irrelevant of age or situation. It seeks to provide life skills and promote social inclusion by bringing together women from different cultural backgrounds and geographical locations.

How can someone get involved and help with the charity?

For people wanting to become more involved we would suggest that their first point of call should be The Lessons Learnt Facebook Group, which is where it all started only five months ago.

What does 2020 hold for the charity?

I’m not quite sure what 2020 will hold for the charity, as it has all happened quite quickly, but whatever happens I hope that women continue to gain from The Lessons Learnt and the charity in turn. I hope 2020 will allow me to be able to make a more substantive contribution to the lives of women in NI, to make change happen.

What has been a highlight for you so far with the charity?

To this point I have been overwhelmed by women’s stories, their strength, their courage and their support for the group and the establishment of the charity.

Davina’s Ark Challenges Addiction in our Communities by Providing Non-Residential Aftercare Services for Individuals, Families and Younger People Affected by Addiction and Associated Psychological Trauma

Davina’s Ark was inspired by the vision of a young local woman called Davina, whose life was affected by addiction and trauma.

It was established in Newry in August 2013, and is a NonResidential Aftercare Addiction Service for individuals, families and young people. The recovery programme focuses on addiction and unresolved trauma. This trauma, whether it is recent or historical, has been identified as a block in recovery, which causes relapse and even suicide. The objective is to prevent relapse, encourage change and to improve the way of life for all service users.

We are open Monday to Friday and also offer an out of hours service, when required. Our organisation provides:

for employers and other community and support organisations.

We have helped hundreds of individuals. Our programmes aim to:

• Break the cycle of addiction for the person with addiction and their families, and free families from the heartache of a loved one with addiction.

• To rediscover relationships in families ‘lost to addiction.’

• To change the way

people view addiction and to reduce the shame and challenge the stigma and discrimination associated with addiction.

• To establish positive relationships within the family and wider community.

• Our social ideology is based on community care, service users remain in their own community during therapy.

• Individual counselling.

• Various group programmes.

• Educational workshops for individuals and families.

• Education and awareness programmes

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Call: 028 3027 9407 Email: info@davinasark.co.uk Visit: www.davinasark.co.uk

Registered Charity No: NIC100289 Registered with The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland Find us on:

22 Kilmorey Street, Newry BT34 2DE

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Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Allowing Every Child The Right To Reach Their Full Potential Ulster Tatler speaks to Ronan McCay, Head of Fundraising at Children in Crossfire.

How was Children in Crossfire formed?

When he was returning home from school one day in May 1972, 10 year-old Richard Moore was shot at point blank range by a soldier’s rubber bullet and permanently blinded. As he grew up surrounded by a loving family and caring community, Richard never succumbed to anger or bitterness. In fact, years later he would seek out, forgive and befriend the soldier who blinded him.

His personal experience drove him to establish Children in Crossfire in 1996, with the goal of helping some of the world’s most vulnerable children – those caught in the crossfire of poverty and injustice. Today Children in Crossfire supports life-saving healthcare and life-changing education in Ethiopia and Tanzania.

What work do you do to help those in need?

Our focus is on Early Childhood Development, which means we work with children up to and including age six. It is scientifically proven that when children are given vital support in their earliest years, their longer-term life prospects improve dramatically. Children in Crossfire works in primary schools in both Tanzania and Ethiopia, delivering an innovative and widely respected pre-school education programme. By the end of 2021, well over 100,000 children will be benefiting from our support.

Crucially, we also raise funds to tackle the barriers that prevent children from accessing these educational opportunities.

This includes building new classrooms and water wells, and funding a therapeutic feeding unit at St Luke’s Hospital in Wolisso, Ethiopia, where children suffering from severe Ronan McCay pictured at schools in Ndole and Madizini in the Morogoro region of Tanzania. Monica, who teaches the pre-school acute malnutrition are given class was trained under the Children in Crossfire programme and life-saving treatment. The lives recently won a national award for educational excellence. of more than 4,000 children have been saved in the decade www.childrenincrossfire.org/donate. All we have partnered with St Luke’s. Many support will be very gratefully received. thousands more have been given a good start in life due to our support – and the goodwill of our supporters. Readers can find out more about us at www.childrenincrossfire.org.

Are there any moments in particular during your time with the charity that stand out and why?

Children in Crossfire patron, Richard Moore with the Dalai Lama, who has described Richard as his ‘hero’.

It was my privilege to spend ten days in Tanzania last year, visiting just some of the schools we support through our early intervention programme. It was both humbling and inspiring to witness the difference Children in Crossfire is making in so many children’s lives. It was also a pleasure to be greeted with so much warmth by some of the friendliest people I have ever been honoured to meet. I look forward very much to returning.

How can people donate to or get involved with Children in Crossfire?

A Health Extension Worker from St Luke’s Hospital in Wolisso, Ethiopia working to prevent severe acute malnutrition in local communities.

I assure any reader that a donation to Children in Crossfire will make a direct and positive impact. 83p in every £1 is invested in our programmes. If anyone does wish to donate to us, they should either call me on 028 7126 9898 or go to

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... Children in Crossfire works in primary schools in both Tanzania and Ethiopia, delivering an innovative and widely respected pre-school education programme...”

Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

Blythswood Ireland - Supporting disadvantaged communities at home and abroad • Support for the Talita Kum After School Programme in Jimbolia, Romania, providing disadvantaged children with nutritious meals, hot showers and help with their homework.

• Blythswood works closely with the Go Relief team of Christian volunteers on a range of projects and last year it refurbished an old Serbian Church that had lain derelict for more than 30 years.

• Support to the Siloam Youth and Children’s Aid Mission to provide residential care and education at an orphanage and school in Chennai, the largest city in Southern India.

Blythswood Ireland is a Christian Charity that provides vital practical aid to vulnerable people both in the UK and Ireland and overseas. Under its motto ‘Christian care for body and soul’, the charity’s work includes providing shelter, emotional support and education to thousands of people in poverty. It also supplies disadvantaged communities with clothing and basic essential items.

The shops, which are very popular with local communities, are located in Antrim, Ballyclare, Ballymoney, Banbridge, East Belfast, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, Lisburn and South Belfast.

The money raised from sales in its shops helps to transform the lives of people in desperate need, fighting addiction, chronic poverty and the effects of years of war and conflict. It reaches out to disadvantaged and disabled children, adults who spent much of their lives in care and to elderly, vulnerable people with no means of support. Projects that have been helped by cash raised in the shops include: • Outreach work at the Daniel Centre in the Romanian town of Cluj-Napoca which offers shelter to 100 young men who spent their entire lives in state institutions.

• The Home Care Scheme which provides essential items to people in desperate need throughout the country. The scheme is operated through referrals from social workers, GPs, politicians, church ministers, leaders etc and has provided practical support to hundreds of families.

The charity has a small group of employees but is also dependent on the generosity of people in Northern Ireland, who give valuable time to work as volunteers in its shops, warehouses and helping to sort through donated goods.

It is also supported by a special body of people who every year help with its annual Christmas shoebox appeal, including representatives of churches, youth organisations, schools and businesses who organise their own shoebox collections.

The shoeboxes include everyday items that most people take for granted such as scarves, hats, gloves, toothpaste and toothbrushes and soap as well as a small gift to help people enjoy Christmas. For recipients, a pair of warm socks, a new mug or a torch are a source of great comfort. Age appropriate gospel literature is added to every box.

Hundreds of individuals throughout Northern Ireland give generously of their time to collect, fill and donate the shoeboxes.

Every single shoebox is checked centrally by a team of volunteers who ensure that they are full and of equal value.

Last year Blythswood Ireland provided hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of aid at home and overseas including distributing almost 14,700 shoeboxes to communities in Moldova and Ukraine. It also provided £80,000 worth of medical aid to Serbia, providing hospital beds, blankets and mattresses.

Blythswood accepts donations of furniture, clothes, books, household items, bric-a-brac and jewellery. To arrange for a

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...Christian care for body and soul’, the charity’s work includes providing shelter, emotional support and education...”

collection call 02893 349859 or call into your nearest Blythswood store.

It also accepts cash gifts. A donation of £10 can feed two vulnerable children at Talita Kum After School Centre while £30 can send a child on a week’s holiday.

For information about giving donations or volunteering with Blythswood Ireland go to https://www.blythswoodireland.org/

Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Giving Women A Voice The Lessons Learnt The Lessons Learnt started as a Facebook group for support, networking, socialising, researching and sharing experiences from women across Northern Ireland.

I wanted to give women a voice, free from judgement, where they can share their ‘lessons learned’ from any and all areas of life; work, marriage, relationships, parenting, friendships, challenges and anything relevant to them.

Through this, the aim is to invite and collate a series of letters from women, anonymously, about their experiences, their lives, loves, secrets, regrets, achievements and anything in-between. What would you tell your younger self, daughter or niece?

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When I lost my mother suddenly aged 55, I realised that I missed out on her ‘lesson learnt’, her secrets kept, her words of wisdom and insights.

I hope through this, we can collate, share, support and feel part of a community of women and not miss an opportunity to record and share for other women and future generations.

Platform NI With the success of The Lessons Learnt and gaining almost 8,000 members (the largest group in NI of its kind), I decided to start a charity, Platform NI. The charity has four key objectives; to give women a platform, raise their voices, raise their spirits and raise their presence.

...The charity has four key objectives; to give women a platform, raise their voices, raise their spirits and raise their presence...”

Platform NI is...

• For the woman who cries because she doesn’t feel loved • For the woman who retired and now can’t find a part time job • For the woman whose anxiety stops her each and every day • For the woman whose husband earns more, so she gave up a job and

became a ‘stay at home’ • For the woman running a business and can sometimes feel all alone • For the woman who is grieving, for herself or a loss, fearing it will never stop • For the woman who took a break and now can’t get back into her work • For the woman who cries when her children go to bed • For the woman who can’t have children and feels sadness break her heart • For the woman who is overwhelmed, she can’t speak, laugh or cry • For the woman who feels she is only just getting by • For the woman whose trauma goes around in her head • For the woman who can’t bear to step into her bed • For the woman who is having hot sweats and life shifts • For the woman who looks in the mirror and can’t stand what she sees • For the woman who feels none of these are her, at some point it’s likely

you will have one - perhaps all.

We’re in this together, so speak out and stand tall.

This PLATFORM is one that is indeed for us all.

For more information email: platformNI@outlook.com and check out The Lessons Learnt on Facebook 139

Founder of Platform NI and The Lessons Learnt, Johann Muldoon receiving an MBE for contribution to business and to architecture.

PLATFORM NI It’s the start of a journey for you and for me, To make things better, To change the way we feel.

It’s the elevation in our voices, The stepping of our feet.

It’s the stage to set agendas, To change what we see.

It’s the raising of our spirits, The support from a group.

No judgement, no setting of standards We are what we see.

Johann Muldoon.

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Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Supporting the ex-service community Beyond the Battlefield is a self-funded registered charity (No: NIC100198).

We strategically specialise in providing counselling and talking therapies for treating individuals with trauma conditions, specifically veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We assist retired members of the Navy, Army, Royal Air Force, PSNI and all emergency services.

We provide practical help and advice regarding; specialist trauma counselling, PTSD, war pensions, homeless veterans and all issues effecting the lives of the exserving personnel. We have had meetings with psychiatrists, forensic psychiatrist, health board professionals, victims & survivors service, GPs, and other likeminded organisations to support our endeavours.

GPs and psychiatrists often refer to Beyond the Battlefield for specialist trauma related counselling due to end of service careers and the issues that brings in civilian life.

When attending GPs for referral to mental health teams clients are put on very lengthy waiting lists which leads to further problems and anxieties. The veterans have voiced this as pertinent to their health and wellbeing, to get their diagnosis.

We also address the comorbidities of PTSD to support veterans and their families who are currently an excluded community group. In doing so we directly focus on the comorbidity issues that the veterans suffer from. These are as follows: suicidal tendencies and suicide, alcoholism, mood swings, hypervigilance, drug abuse prescription and otherwise,

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... It is important to note the devastating effects that PTSD has on immediate family and friends, hence this is our opportunity to provide significant benefits by strengthening family resiliency and expediting the management of PTSD symptoms hence, working towards successful outcomes.�

domestic abuse and family separation, depression and gambling addiction. It is vital that we address all these issues and how it will work better for family and community cohesion. We held a pilot taken with 60 veterans from a wide ranging geographical spread of veterans in NI including areas of deprivation, this resulted in the awareness and the extent of comorbidity issues the group are suffering from.

In practice we are constantly dealing with additional conditions co-occurring with the primary conditions of PTSD. Throughout this group we discovered 97% of our veterans each have additional conditions to PTSD which is either behavioural or mental ill health disorders that need to be addressed. These disorders manifest themselves within the ex-services, therefore treatment methods remain difficult. It is important to note the devastating effects that PTSD has on immediate family and friends, hence this is our opportunity to provide significant benefits by strengthening family resiliency and expediting the management of PTSD symptoms hence, working towards successful outcomes.

Our Chairman Robert McCartney (MBACP) is best known in the veterans world for being Best Veterans PTSD Support Specialist. We are currently evolving to enable veterans to cope with those stimuli outside clinical settings so they will feel secure and trusting of us in a safe environment. The strategic purpose is to support the changes they have had in their life and improve their experiences of open communication and talk about their problems and ultimately deal with them. We need them to be aware of understanding the services available to them and as an organisation we need to optimise the delivery of our own services.

Typically, if we can provide for participation and increase better mental health and family cohesion, we can only carry on with defined objectives for reaching our goals to assist the veterans who self-medicate and help turn their life around.

Beyond the Battlefield and services offered are mostly run by volunteers which means we can provide counselling and other services on a donation basis. This ensures that all our veterans have access to the services they need. Volunteers currently required as fund raisers as we are a selffunded charity.

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Chief Executive, Annemarie Hastings and Chairman, Robert McCartney.

Beyond the Battlefield Strangford Business Park Unit A/B2 19 Jubilee Road, Newtownards, BT23 4YH T: 028 9122 8389 E: info@beyondthebattlefield.org www.beyondthebattlefield.org

Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

Variety In Diversity

Ulster Tatler talks to Lori Gatsi-Barnett, founder of JoinHer Network.

Tell us about yourself and how the organisation came to life?

I was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, the eldest and the only girl alongside my three brothers. I lived and studied in Pennsylvania, US. I’ve been fortunate to travel around the world and experience diversity in many forms. Having lived in London initially I “blew in” to Belfast and 14 years later I am a business owner; L’esense Group Ltd, social entrepreneur, motivational speaker and

founder of JoinHer Network.

Diversity has always been a part of my life from an early age, primarily because of my parents and both their professional lives which often included us. JoinHer came about in my bedside journal for years, I suppose waiting for the day I would be convinced to share it and bring it to life.

Each founder director brings a vibrant and colourful element to JoinHer Network.

The mere fact that our lives had to cross deliberately in order for us to realise our individual original uniqueness and the fantastic impact the “variety in diversity” we have as our backgrounds are so international.

How can someone get involved and help?

You can call us on:07563497490 Email: info@joinHer.co.uk Visit: www.JoinHer.co.uk Or reach out to us on our social media; Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram What does 2020 hold for the organisation?

On 6th March, to celebrate International Women’s Day, we are holding an event in collaboration with The Merchant Hotel,

Belfast. The event will celebrate and honour accomplishments of women in Northern Ireland, especially women from ethnic minority backgrounds, however all women are welcome. The night will include three keynote speakers and a Q&A panel.

ArtsEkta is supporting the event by providing entertainment to showcase various cultures.

On 12th March we will be holding our #EachforEqual ‘What Women Want’ Conference at Belfast City Hall and in November we will have an International Men’s Day Conference.

Throughout all our work and collaborations JoinHer strives to streamline the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals which is a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

What has been a highlight for you so far with the organisation?

Team building experience and participation with DePaul, Big Sleep Out to raise awareness for homelessness and to gain a better understanding of the challenges so easily faced by us all.

Keeping Dogs at the Heart of the Home Tell us a bit about yourself and how the charity came to life?

Lucy’s Trust started out on a small scale as most things do!

I was working as a vet in a practice that had the council contract for euthanasia of pound dogs.

With the help of Milvale animal sanctuary, myself and my Ulster Tatler talks to partner Rob Olivia Kennedy, founder were able to of Lucy’s Trust. go beyond just saving a few by taking them into our own home, and began taking as many dogs as we could and kennelling them until onward rescue space could be found. A large proportion of those dogs went out to England via Assisi animal rescues Chance of a Lifetime scheme (COAL).

Within a short time we also started rehoming dogs ourselves as well as acting as an interim placement and Lucy’s trust was born!

For anyone who hasn’t heard of the charity before, tell them what it is all about.

The trust is named after the best dog anyone could ever have in their life, Lucy. In her honour, we have evolved over the last decade to become a sanctuary for dogs with behavioural issues who cannot be rehomed, housing up to 40 dogs at any one time. As most dogs are here for life, we cannot take dogs in very often, so we focus on educating the public on behaviour.

We provide advice and dog behaviourists for those who are struggling to cope, and cover the cost of sessions, or simply put folk in touch with the right behaviourist for them and their dog.

It is our aim to promote force free, positive, scientific, training methods and behaviour modifications to ensure dogs can stay with their families and never end up in rescue in the first place.

How can someone get involved and help with the charity?

Sadly we cannot accept volunteers at the sanctuary to work directly with the dogs due to welfare and insurance reasons (dogs that are fearful of strangers and some with bite history) but we always need help with fundraising, (as caring for 40 dogs daily doesn’t leave a lot of time for anything else!)

We occasionally need volunteers at events too, and these roles are truly invaluable to us. If you think you could help out with either, please send us an email.

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What does 2020 hold for the charity?

2020 is our ten year anniversary, and we have lots planned for the coming year.

Starting with a very important two-date seminar with dog behaviourist Susan Finlay and Veterinary surgeon Anna Barron, focusing on safety around dogs, babies and young children.

The event is free to attend, at the luxurious setting of the Merchant Hotel on the 22nd and 29th of March. Tickets are required, either visit the event page on our Facebook; Dog, bumps and babies, or email lucystrust@ yahoo.co.uk to book your place.

We also hope to run our second “Dog sense” event in the summer (the first was held in summer 2018 at Wallace park in Lisburn) bringing together many behaviourists, vets and physiotherapists for all things force free and fun! Teaching as wide an audience as possible, adults and children, on how to live a harmonious life with your dog.

What has been a highlight for you so far with the charity?

The highlight for me is the emails we receive thanking us for our help. From the folk who took our advice, or were helped by a behaviourist we funded/or put them in touch with. Nothing pleases me more than hearing about how our canine friends got to stay were they belonged, at the heart of the home.

Ulster Tatler CHARITY GUIDE

Helping people to help themselves

Arc Healthy Living Centre Ltd is a Fermanagh based health and wellbeing Charity which is also a social enterprise. ARC was established in 2000 and is proactively helping people to lead healthier and happier lives. ARC is delivering public health and social care contracts and is now one of the largest employers in the area.

In 2001 the ARC Centre was opened in what was then one of Northern Irelands most disadvantaged housing estates: Sallyswood Irvinestown, County Fermanagh. Its aim was to improve the well-being of local people by bringing together a partnership of community health activities and services. Its ethos is to deliver ‘local solutions to local problems’, operating in hard-to-reach areas and promoting community participation and engagement. The ARC was at the forefront of addressing the social determinants of health; shaped by listening to what local people said, childcare services, addictions services, volunteering programmes and services for older rurally isolated people were developed.

All services always place a focus on excellence and exemplar governance.

ARC started as a local initiative and has grown significantly and now delivers services across the entire southern sector of the Western Trust area.

As a centre moulded by both the assets and deeprooted needs of its community, ARC’s uniqueness is its strength. ARC Started small, experimented, and assumed success was possible.

2018-2019 has been another exceptional year for the ARC Healthy Living Centre. Operationally, we have managed change with an increase in staffing levels, at year end we have 66 staff on our payroll, and this will increased to76 in the summer. We had almost 16,000 people through our doors in our core builds and this reflects only part of our service offering, with an ever increasing focus on outreach and home based provision, bringing the project to the people.

Our social enterprise projects Active Allsorts and SSAVI are running successfully without state subvention. Active Allsorts in now the longest established out of schools setting in Fermanagh,

opened in1996 the service has served our population for two generations.

ARC has increasingly supported partnership working and has led and participated in a number of very strategic projects actively addressing health inequality. This year ARC Led on the Community Synchronization Hub for Fermanagh. At the end of the reporting year have had met all targets set, in relation to the community health and well beings plan delivered, moreover we had developed excellent cross border relationships.

Our outdoor space is being maximised and last year we provided fresh, home grown food for our service users and the wider community. The tunnel has enabled to participate in social prescribing gardening programmes, despite the weather.

Over the prolonged cold weather, we extend a warm welcome to our neighbours, and we are working at strategic level with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and academics to develop a pilot project actively addressing rural fuel poverty. The HandiHeat project was launched January 2019.

We continually work to build social capital and facilitate a community forum for 36 community groups, allowing them to come together to address collective issues of community concern, share information and resources, furthermore this acts as an excellent conduit for the delivery of health and wellbeing information.

We support people with a wide variety of integrated services based on their individual needs, because we know that health is primarily driven by social factors, not medical ones.

We have strategic partnerships with a wide range of organisations and funders, and together we design and deliver highly effective programmes that transform peoples’ lives.

For almost 20 years the ARC Centre has been actively addressing health inequalities on the ground.

The charity continues to challenge conventional wisdom about how to ‘unleash healthy communities’ and has pioneered a practical approach to public health, working with people from some of the most marginalised rural areas. ARC has begun to design

rural solutions in relation to addressing rural fuel poverty, working across regions with the aspiration for housing occupants to pay less for fuel and utilise renewable energy sources at a competitive price.

Above all, our learning tells us the importance of kindness and compassion and the need to support people on their long journeys of transformation, not just provide short, time-limited services.

At ARC we always believed the only way to address health problems was to start from the bottom up - not by dictating what needed to happen but by encouraging and supporting people to take control of their own health, and in doing so, their own lives.

Case study Some feedback from people who have availed of the CoH-Sync service demonstrates the impact of the project: Client S. who has been working with the team said: “I was overweight. I had several medical problems that were causing me issues. I was a full time carer for my son with a brain injury. I had turned 60,” she said.

“Quite honestly, I was looking after everyone except myself. I met Marie, the CoH-Sync Health Facilitator, when she came to talk about CoHSync to our carers group. Marie didn’t just talk to me, she actually listened.We sat and discussed the CoH Sync health & wellbeing plan and I chose Physical Activity and Nutrition as my goals, as Marie had checked my blood pressure (B/P) and it was very high. I wanted to be healthier, feel better, lose weight and regain my sparkle. Marie recommended that I also attend my practice nurse for monitoring of B/P prior to commencing a Physical Activity programme with CoH-Sync Plan. I went home and had a think and realised that it was about time I did something and I accepted responsibility for my own health, for my own wellbeing. Over the next 8 weeks with meeting face-to-face and telephone calls to encourage my action plan - I achieved my goal and lowered my B/P reading to normal, lost weight and felt great.”

Client S has now lost a lot of weight. She’s rediscovered her confidence and is getting out and about a lot more.

“I used to say CoH-Sync has changed my life but on reflection it has empowered me to change my life and I will be forever grateful for that,” she says.

For more information contact ARC on T: 028 686 28741 E: info@archlc.com Twitter: @ARCHLCTD1

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Ulster Tatler

CHARITY GUIDE

Celebrating 30 Years Of Unforgettable Wildlife Memories

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astle Espie is one of 10 UK visitor sites managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, a conservation charity that protects and restores important and threatened wetland habitats across the globe and through our centres, introduces millions of people to the wonders of wetlands and their wildlife.

Castle Espie is the only WWT centre in Northern Ireland and lies on the northwest shore of the stunning Strangford Lough, 15km south of Belfast. Strangford Lough is the largest sea inlet in the U.K. or Ireland, covering 150 km2 (58 sq mi) and is an area of international wildlife importance.

Watched over by the Londonderry Monument on Scrabo Hill and lying close to where the Comber and Graffan Burn rivers converge with the sea, Castle Espie is a doorway to another world.

The name Castle Espie (or in Irish, Caistéal an Easpaig– the townland of the Bishop’s Castle) takes its name from a castle, long vanished, of which little remains and virtually nothing is known.

Human activity from Mesolithic times through to the lime kilns and brickworks of our more recent industrial past can all be evidenced in this ancient place. These scars on the shifting landscape left by millennia of human activity now provide purchase for nature’s reclamation. Disused quarries and the footprint of industry developed into habitats of open water lakes, saltmarsh, saline lagoon, shallow seasonally flooded wetland, strandline flora and limestone grassland of important ecological value. This cornucopia of biodiversity is now managed as a nature reserve along with 400 hectares of intertidal habitat where around 75% of the world’s population of light-bellied Brent Geese return from the high arctic to overwinter here, in one of the planet’s most magical wildlife spectacles.

This year, we celebrate 30 years of working on Strangford Lough, ensuring that wetland wildlife in Northern Ireland could be protected and allowed to flourish.

40% of all species live or breed in wetlands, yet 87% of the world’s wetlands have been lost over the past 300 years with one million wetland animal and plant species threatened with extinction. Wetlands play an important role in flood mitigation, filtration of pollutants and store more carbon than the world’s forests combined.

Whether you are looking for a family fun day out or are passionate about nature and wildlife, there’s a world of wetland wildlife waiting to be discovered by you at Castle Espie Wetland Centre.

Get up close to Ireland’s largest collection of native and exotic birds, ducks and geese from around the world or simply explore our woodland and shoreview walks, all while enjoying spectacular views across Strangford Lough.

Add to that our Brent Play Barn, wildwood adventure and secret swamp, a magical sensory garden, our Duckery, art gallery, shop and Kingfisher Kitchen and you are left with an unforgettable day out for everyone.

As a wetland conservation charity, we simply could not survive without the dedication of both visitors and volunteers. By supporting WWT Castle Espie you not only contribute to our own conservation efforts here on Strangford Lough but also the wider conservation efforts of WWT around the world.

“... 40% of all species live or breed in wetlands yet 87% of the world’s wetlands have been lost over the past 300 years with one million wetland animal and plant species threatened with extinction.”

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre 78 Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA E: info@castleespie@wwt.org.uk T: 028 9187 4146

www.wwt.org.uk

Ulster Tatler

Build your dream home GUIDE

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BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME THIS MONTH’S ULSTER TATLER TAKES A CLOSER LOOK AT ALL THE FACTORS INVOLVED IN MAKING YOUR DREAM HOME A REALITY. Programmes like Grand Designs have tapped into the desire to build your dream home. Through this guide, we hope to inspire you along your self build journey. Investing in your dream home is all about choices: from the location, to the layout, right down to the bathroom sink. When you’re making that many decisions, everything can feel like a bit of a splurge, but there are ways homeowners can save, too.

The Location Finding the right building plot to build your dream home can seem daunting but don’t panic – over 13,000 people manage it every year! There are many things to consider with regards to location.

You may ask yourself “Is it in a safe and friendly neighbourhood? Are there services nearby? Will there be room for a garden?”. Having your dream home means living in a neighbourhood that has everything you need and maybe even that little bit extra. It’s important to pick the right location for you in an area that will also grow and increase the value of your home. Choosing a location you love that will grow with you is the first step in creating your dream home.

Image courtesy of Kelly Hoppen.

The money side There are 2 main types of self-build mortgages.

One is an ‘arrears stage payment self-build mortgages. In this case the lender will need to be reassured that any advanced funds are below a previously agreed and published percentage

threshold. This is typically between 60-85% of each stage, which may differ for both the initial land purchase and the subsequent build costs.

Option 2 is a ‘Guaranteed advance stage payment self-build mortgages.’ With this, the risks associated with subjective valuations are removed, because there is a greater degree of vigilance in costing the project prior to starting the works. For those who have less liquidity, and who will be more reliant on knowing exactly what sums they are to receive and when, this is an ideal alternative. There are also other alternatives including more straightforward bank loans, equity release schemes or some form of bridging finance product.

The Favourite room If you love cooking, chances are you’ll be spending a lot more time in your kitchen than anywhere else in the house, and your budget should reflect that. Instead of spreading your cash evenly around the home, concentrate more of it in the areas where you’d like to spend most of your time. If you are going to be using the kitchen counter a lot, it should be one you absolutely love. If you are a fashion lover, you may want to splurge on a walk-in wardrobe as it will definitely go to good use!

Whether you’re ready to go all-out on high end appliances and fixtures, or you’d like to concentrate your cash on the rooms that feel special to you, how you design your dream home is your choice!

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BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME WITH FEARON BROS Established in 1979, Fearon Bros is an award-winning family business specialising in the art of creating bespoke kitchen and bedroom furniture.

Over the past 40 years, Fearon Bros has mastered the art of designing kitchens which sit seamlessly in the heart of your home.

With tailor made, unique designs to meet every individual style; from the timeless traditional, to the ultra-modern, Fearon Bros know how to create your dream kitchen.

By combining award-winning design with the finest materials, Fearon Bros designer kitchen collection brings a touch of class and modernity to every home. A Fearon Bros kitchen is not only luxurious on the outside, it’s luxurious on the inside too. The doors, cabinets, interiors, and every detail in between are crafted to perfection thanks to elite craftsmen who work tirelessly to bring every kitchen design to life.

As the kitchen has evolved so too have the materials and appliances that in essence, create it. Fearon Bros use only the

finest appliances from top brands including Neff, Siemen and Quooker which simplify everyday kitchen chores while adding a touch of luxury. With the latest technology, homeowners can do everything from using their smartphones to preheat the oven to pouring instantly boiled hot water.

Fearon Bros has forged partnerships with leading kitchen suppliers around the globe over the past 40 years to deliver bespoke kitchens as unique as their owners. From the sleek and modern ranges from Pronorm in Germany to the range of classical kitchens from Second Nature in the UK, customers are spoiled for choice when they choose to design their kitchen with Fearon Bros.

Fearon Bros is situated at the foot of Slieve Gullion just one hour from Belfast, perfectly placed to service all customers.

To design your dream kitchen, simply visit www.fearonbros. co.uk or call us today to arrange a showroom visit on 028 3084 8693.

Beautifully bespoke made-to-measure window coverings to suit your home. We specialise in providing the best solutions for angled windows along with supplying a wide variety of window coverings for throughout the home.

Visit our in-store showroom or learn more at www.johnashannon.co.uk/shannons-blinds

14-16 Newry Street, Kilkeel, Co. Down BT34 4DN T: 028 4176 2315 | E: info@johnashannon.co.uk | W: www.johnashannon.co.uk

ARCHITECTURE

Des Ewing Residential Architects is an architectural practice based in Holywood, Co. Down. As a practice they specialise in the procurement and design of bespoke homes.

The practice is owned and run by Des Ewing, who is a chartered architect, a member of the RIBA and RIAI. Des Ewing Residential Architects has been in practice now for over 25 years and has been responsible for in excess of 250 individual homes and numerous exclusive residential developments throughout the UK and Ireland. As the team concentrate solely on residential projects, it enables them to hone their techniques and continue to cultivate the technical fine points to produce more beautiful, practical and resilient homes. They aim to constantly improve the detailing and customer service, to produce more reliable, tailored and beautiful homes in which clients love to live.

Their ethos as a practice is to make houses the best they can be and have clients who are very proud and happy to be living in them. It is not just about the design and a set of detailed drawings, but the opportunity to be able to make a real difference to people’s lives and help fulfil their dreams. Clients in the position to build their own home have likely worked hard for that opportunity and want to be able to trust their architect to advise, guide and listen to them; Des Ewing Architects provides such a service.

They say, “We strive for perfection in every project, no matter what size. We listen to our clients, talk with them and take the time to create the look and ambience they aspire to.

It is about reading the client, not necessarily what they say about a proposal, but often what they don’t say – a look or a pause that tells you they are not convinced. At that stage it is about taking the time to tease out what it is that they do or don’t like. This takes time, experience, skill and dedication. This level of commitment

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

to our client provides them with the comfort to know nothing is compromised.”

Des Ewing Architects provides a full and dedicated service starting from outline proposals, design, planning permission, detailed design to site management and final completion of your project. Working from a head office in Holywood, Co. Down, and field office in Mayfair, London, offering high-end residential properties across the UK and Ireland.

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The Studio, 13 Bangor Road, Holywood, Co. Down, BT18 0NU T: 028 9022 0500 E: des@desewing.com www.desewing.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

BUILT TO LAST

Ulster Tatler talks to Kevin Fearon, Managing Director of kitchen design specialist Fearon Bros.

Tell us about yourself and your role within the company.

My name is Kevin Fearon and I am the Managing Director at Fearon Bros. My father, Declan Fearon, opened the doors of Fearon Bros in 1979 so from a young age I’ve gained experience in every role within the company from shadowing him in client’s homes to project managing kitchen installations.

Describe a typical working day.

My typical day is comprised of design consultations, visiting client sites and managing the workshop. I also regularly meet with suppliers to discover new trends and products. While my days are similar, every client is different; I love that one minute I could be working on a timelessly traditional kitchen and the next could be spent designing something ultra-modern.

What makes Fearon Bros stand out amongst other kitchen designers?

Over the past 40 years we’ve mastered the skill of achieving the perfect balance between cutting edge design and kitchens that are built to last. We have some of the best designers and craftsmen in Ireland working on our team. We can proudly say that some of the kitchens we built back in

OFFERING A FULl bespoke interior design service From concept through to completion, we are passionate about what we do.

Design ~ Supply ~ Installation • Bespoke furniture • Custom cabinetry • Specialist joinery • Luxurious furniture ranges • Curtains, Roman blinds • Wallcoverings, Wallpapers, Paints

• Upholstery • Fabrics • Flooring • Rugs • Wall Art • Lighting • Accessories

Providing the highest standard of quality, craftsmanship, style and functionality, tailored to your exact requirements right here in Northern Ireland.

T: 0774 3035 439 E: info@opulenceinteriordesign.co.uk www.opulenceinteriordesign.co.uk 152

1979 are still being used daily by families across Ireland.

What tips would you give to someone putting a kitchen into their new home?

1. Research - Pinterest and Houzz are great for inspiring design and fuelling creativity.

2. Meet your designer early – the kitchen is the heart of the home so it is important to consider how your kitchen will fit into your overall design, particularly in new builds.

3. Budget – it’s always advisable to have a budget range in mind before beginning the kitchen design process.

What are the kitchen trends for 2020?

As homes become ‘smarter’ so do kitchens.

Technology has become a major part of the kitchen design process to make the meal prep and cooking experience even more seamless. The latest appliances mean that our kitchens can do everything from pour instantly boiled hot water to pre-heating ovens from remote locations.

To start designing the kitchen of your dreams, visit www.fearonbros.co.uk or call us today on 028 3084 8693.

BRING YOUR OUTDOOR WORLD TO LIFE with Colour by Nature, now available in durable Exterior Eggshell

P.V. Macari Interiors, 1 Lower English Street, Armagh, BT61 7LJ Tel: 028 3752 7575

INTERIOR DESIGN

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME 2005, I took an opportunity to train and grow into my present role and now work with clients to identify the latest trends and explore new project opportunities for Armatile’s architectural and bespoke tile ranges.

What makes Armatile stand out amongst the crowd within the interior design industry?

Without a doubt it is Armatile’s Tile Manufacturing facility in Armagh that makes it totally unique in the interior design industry. We create some truly beautiful floors and walls for customer’s projects from Victorian era inspired designs to totally bespoke surfaces for one off projects. Our in-house Design & Manufacturing Team designs, manufactures, supplies and distributes these high quality tile bespoke and mosaics, patterns, features and fabricated products (such as porcelain stair treads) to a broad range of partners in differentiated markets within the interior design industry; gaining a reputation for consistently delivering high quality UK-Manufactured decorative tile products to clients and their projects around the world.

“START WITH A PLAN” Ulster Tatler’s Michaela Colgan speaks to Martin Mallon from Armatile.

Tell us about yourself and your role within the company.

I am Marketing Manager of the multi award winning tile company Armatile; one of the leading tile importers & suppliers of high quality tile solutions in Ireland & UK for residential, interior, commercial and hospitality design projects. Beginning on the showroom floor in

What tips would you give to readers who are thinking of changing their home interiors?

Always start with a plan. Maybe create a simple mood board, scrap book or Pinterest page. Once you start looking you will see the choices become overwhelming and you may become lost; worried if this colour goes with that surface. Ask for advice from professionals, engage an interior designer (especially if it’s a

bigger project), visit shops to see and touch the products. There is something weirdly satisfying about touching a fabric or material. But at the end of it all be happy with your choices. While individual elements might change don’t waver from your original concept, feel or look. If you love it from the start you will continue to love it for years to come.

What are the tile trends for 2020?

We visit the world’s leading Tile Exhibitions in Italy and Spain to keep abreast with the recent trends. The latest products emerging from the factories are being led by the fashion and interior design industries. There are two huge trends at the moment, patterned tiles for inside and 20mm porcelain pavers for garden and landscaping projects. Pattern, colour and shapes remain very much to the fore with a lean towards creating opportunities for customers to play with the materials and produce personalised designs for their own projects. Our Makari Collection of decorative hexagon tiles is a prime example of this. From one tile, customers can create numerous patterns options and find the perfect design for their own project. 20mm Porcelain Pavers are a ‘game changer’ in the landscaping industry. Incredibly hard-wearing, anti-slip, weather, stain and scratch resistant; Our range of armapave 20mm pavers are specifically designed for use on outdoor patios, garden paths and landscape areas to create seamless transitions between internal and outside spaces.

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MONTEITH INTERIORS

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Create The Centrepiece To Your Home WITH DP FIREPLACES & STOVES

We are a family-run fireplace and stove business who have been in the trade for over 30 years and are now into the third generation.

We opened our showroom 20 years ago, which we have recently extended and refurbished.

Monitoring peoples’ changing tastes has enabled us to offer a wide variety of fireplace and inglenook designs to suit any home, we also offer a choice of having a totally bespoke and unique fireplace designed to suit your needs.

At DP Fireplaces, we pride ourselves on our principle of excellence and tradition combining design with attention to detail and quality of finish. Not only do we work in the private sector, but examples of our fireplace design and craftsmanship can be seen in various hotels and restaurants throughout the province.

We work with developers throughout the province, largely with PC Sums, these include Porter & Co, Lilburn Contracts, Garrett Homes, J H Price & Sons, Douglan Developments, Brennan Building Contractors, WGk Homes and View Point Developments.

We have seen a big increase in the number of people requiring complete flue systems installed and chimneys lined. This has encouraged us to also expand that side of our business.

With the extended natural gas coverage in the province, we also offer a wide range of gas appliances, including inset fires, cassette fires and stoves, as well as a selection of electric fires which are ideal for homes without chimneys.

The main advantage of purchasing your fireplace or stove from us is that we offer the whole package – from site survey, giving design advice and ideas, to supplying and fitting your fireplace or stove, including any building, flue lining, plumbing and plastering work required.

No matter which product you choose from our comprehensive range of fireplaces and stoves, you can rest assured that all work is fully guaranteed and you will have a fine centrepiece to your home.

Proprietors: David and Margaret Pickering. We are proud to be associated with and to sponsor Dromara Village Football Club.

DP Fireplaces & Stoves, 21a Brookside Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8LE T: 028 9756 4949 M: 07884346297 E: info@dpfireplaces.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

A SUNNY OUTLOOK

Suggest yellow as the main colour in a home’s palette and you’ll get a mixed response. There are some that feel it’s just too strong, whereas others see it as being a very pretty hue and best kept in children’s rooms. But with the right pigment in the right place, it can be a surprisingly sophisticated shade, says British interiors brand Neptune. Which is why they’re championing it as the colour of choice for our homes this spring.

As part of Neptune’s new collection, they’ve welcomed yellow into their own palette in the form of Saffron. It’s one of those shades that changes dramatically in different lights which, as Amy from their in-house design team explains, is all part of its appeal. “We wanted the life-affirming vibrancy of pure yellow, just softened,” she says. “So we mixed in a touch of green to nuance it without muddying the waters too much.”

It’s this that makes Saffron much easier to use in your home. “Saffron can be warm and buttery or golden and clay-like, depending on the light,” explains Amy, “but either way, I’d suggest using it on a large scale in at least one room. It’ll almost definitely become the homely, joyful space you’ll want to spend all your time in.”

Neptune Belfast, 315 Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 3GB Tel: 028 9691 9988

Neptune By Malone & Smyth Teemore Business Complex, Belturbet Road, Enniskillen, BT92 9BL Tel: 028 6774 1885

ENSURING DURABILITY FOR YEARS TO COME Ulster Tatler talks to Des Ewing about the importance of consulting a residential architect when planning for your new home.

What is your advice for anyone looking to build their own home?

Do it! Those who do, assuming they don’t overstretch themselves, enjoy the process as well as loving the end product. It’s a lot of work with lots of decisions but it’s great to live in something that you have created. Employ a quantity surveyor to give a budget cost at design stage before submitting a planning application so you don’t have to make big cutbacks on the finishes and landscaping at tender stage. The finishes are what provide a little luxury and joy to your everyday.

How soon in the process would they need to see an architect?

Get an architect’s opinion before finalising the purchase of your site or

property. They can give advice on items you may not have considered, for example potential expensive service connections, additional expense involved in sloping sites etc. If you have a couple of potential sites which you can’t decide upon they can help you choose or for a small fee they can provide a concept for possible design.

Do you see a pattern/trend in how homes look or do you believe each house should look unique?

Modern houses are becoming more attractive as they encompass more inspiration from traditional forms in this country. I think they are more elegant with higher specification interiors to banish the shiny white box basic interior that is uncomfortable to live with. The majority of self-builders still feel safer with classical/traditional replica houses as they understand what the finished house will look like.

Which project that you have worked on stands out the most and why?

My favourite recent completion is a Belgian style barn located on an elevated site with panoramic views. This contemporary home resembles a collection of barn-like buildings. The blocks are situated to open out towards the city to encompass the best of the views. The central section is set back to create a sheltered external space connected to the kitchen. The Italian rustic grey/tan coloured brick contrasts with the terracotta rosemary tile clay roof to warm the appearance of the building on this exposed location.

The roof is dominant with long overhangs to reduce solar gain through the extensive aluminium framed glazing. It is simple in form and in detail to ensure durability for years to come.

Des Ewing Residential Architects 13 Bangor Rd, Holywood BT18 0NU 028 9022 0500 www.desewing.com

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Quality you can be proud of www.jwmccall.com

Dundrum Road, Clough 028 4481 1999

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TILES & BATHROOMS

Ballynahinch Road, Carryduff 028 9081 4011

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

Nestled in the hills of County Down, Hillview Furniture has been designing and creating bespoke furniture since 2014. The business is owned and managed by Gary McStay, who takes his passion and enthusiasm for all things furniture to create personalised, bespoke made-to-measure kitchens and bedrooms. This passion not only allows Hillview Furniture to stand out from the crowd, but to excel in the field.

Gary’s attention to detail and hands on approach in all aspects of a project, from the design in his showroom with customers talking through the latest trends, from timeless classics like traditional oak with antique hardware, to more contemporary handless sleek kitchens.

Through these consultations it has become evident over the past few years that storage is key, especially in kitchens where we need so many things, from ingredients to cooking equipment, well placed, concealed storage is a saviour to the aesthetic of our kitchens.

One of the most desired and sought after design features would be the kitchen larder. Larder cupboards, sometimes known as pantry cupboards, have been the kitchen staples for centuries and, in the last few years, have established themselves as one of the must have items in modern homes.To fit into the modern, easy living lifestyle, having a larder makes perfect sense, all the food goods are in one place and not scattered around, meaning people can be more organised when doing their food shopping.

Another big design trend that has been popping up over the last few years is the walk-in wardrobe. Gone are the days of the pokey, small cupboards. Large wardrobes aren’t a necessity, they are a must-have.

When designing your walk-in wardrobe, storage and practicality are key.

You need to think about what storage you need from long hanging, to shelves and drawers, to shoe shelves. Due to walk-in wardrobes usually being smaller, it is important to keep the space bright. This can be achieved by using neutral colours, the use of mirrors and lights, lights, lights!

Over the years I have been faced by many challenging projects, but the one thing I love most about being a carpenter is that you can make just about anything you like. Once you know the core elements of good carpentry and what it takes to make a good project, the actual project itself (whether it be a kitchen, bedroom, vanity unit, etc) is just a detail.

This is a really good feeling because there is just about nothing beyond our ability to make.

HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE

Hillview furniture Designed to be loved...

Made to be used 11 Coyles Hill, Mayobridge T: 07895832702 E: Hillviewfurniture@hotmail.com

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Whole House WiFi Smart Audio & Video Inspired Lighting Efficient Heating Maximum Security Home Automation

SIMPLIFYING YOUR LIFE AT HOME OR WORK, WITH SEAMLESSLY ELEGANT TECHNOLOGY INSTALLATIONS. OUR VISION IS FOR EACH HOME TO HAVE FEATURES THAT ENHANCE THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE LIVING THERE. TO BOOK A SHOWROOM APPOINTMENT, SIMPLY GET IN TOUCH VIA PHONE, EMAIL OR SOCIAL MEDIA.

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BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

Chef Shaun Shields and Philip Davison from Posh Nosh.

Gareth Boyd, Siobhan McGarry and Paul Mason.

ULSTER TATLER I NTERIORS WINTER SOIREE The recent Ulster Tatler Interiors Networking Dinner was held in Armatile, Belfast. Industry experts dined and socialised in the Boucher Road showroom, where they enjoyed an evening of fine food and networking opportunities. The delicious meal came courtesy of Posh Nosh catering and speeches were made on the night by Managing Director of Ulster Tatler Group, Chris Sherry, Marketing Manager of Armatile, Martin Mallon and Posh Nosh Head Chef Tolson Sherwood.

Anne-Marie Rogers, Graeme Kelly and Jon Lyons.

Mark McAllister, Jacqueline Rooney and Martin Mallon.

Posh Nosh chefs Shaun Shields, Tolson Sherwood and Michael Gillies.

Chris Sherry and John Herron.

Padraig McGeough and Alex Longridge.

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Videographers Caoimha Gordon and Sophie Irvine.

armatile

Armagh Station Road BT71 7NP T: 028 3752 7007

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Belfast 58 Boucher Crescent BT12 6HU T: 028 9068 2752

Newry Greenbank Ind. Estate BT34 2QX T: 028 3026 6021

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Discover what Flogas can do for you today: Republic of Ireland T: 041 983 1041 | E: info@flogas.ie | www.flogas.ie Northern Ireland T: 028 9073 2611 | E: info@flogasni.com | www.flogasni.com

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Design, fabrication & installation of specialist glazing Commercial Glazing . Residential Glazing . Heritage & Restoration . Stained Glass

Our bespoke glazing fuses the home and outdoors into one space. Aluminium windows, doors, bi-folds, sliding doors, screens and rooflights are glazed with low E gas units for optimum energy efficiency.

Frameless internal doors, screens and balustrades create barely-there divisions. We have the technical knowledge and experience to advise on the best design and spec for your project.

13 Hill Street, Dunmurry, Belfast, BT17 0AD, Northern Ireland T: (+44) 028 9030 1946 | E: enquiries@glassmarque.com | www.glassmarque.com

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

WE’RE HERE TO BRING YOUR DREAM HOME OR RENOVATION PROJECT TO LIFE From our offices in Newtownabbey, we create contemporary, practical and beautiful spaces that will last a lifetime.

We’ve designed and delivered the construction of numerous beautiful homes within Northern Ireland for over 25 years.

Results that suit your needs and lifestyle Whether you’re dreaming of a large new build house, renovating or extending, planning a residential development, developing commercial premises or any other architectural requirement, we provide designs and buildings with an expert attention to detail and a user-friendly service.

Custom unique architectural design Every project, regardless of scale, is highly crafted, with strong elements of client personalisation, innovative materials, mixing the best of your ideas with our experience to create a bespoke design for all tastes including modern, traditional and contemporary styles.

ARCHITECTURE | PLANNING | SURVEYING

Full service, planning and surveying We are among Northern Ireland’s most experienced planning professionals, specialising in rural sites. We can guide you through your project, anticipating any hurdles before they become a problem.

We specialise in: • New Home Design • Extensions, sunrooms, roofspaces • Planning permission • Countryside planning and PPS21 • Housing developments • Commercial & Industrial Building Design • Retail shop units including cafes, restaurants & bars • Chartered Surveying

From site meeting to construction support We work closely with you, from our first noobligation free consultation providing guidance and advice on all aspects of the process, through to feasibility studies and first concept designs, planning permission and building control, liaising with builders and contractors during construction, right through to completion.

Value for money and contractor advice We’ll advise on the choice of contractors and the need/scope of other consultant’s services required for your project. We’ll obtain competitive quotes from suitable contractors ensuring the best quality services at a good price to suit your budget.

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1 Jordanstown Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QD T: 028 9036 4615 E: info@hrjess.co.uk www.hrjess.co.uk find us on:

Ireland’s Original Kitchen Company

Visit our Showroom: Shaerf Drive, Lurgan, County Armagh BT66 8DD Book an Appointment: +44 (0)28 3832 3296 email: mail@alwood.co.uk www.alwoodkitchens.com

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

A FRESH APPROACH TO TILING Luxury tile and stone supplier Porcellana Tile Studio is based in the gorgeous Carnegie Building on the Donegall Road in Belfast. The Showroom is laid out in a unique way, creating a comfortable and relaxed environment in which clients can view the amazing range of tiles and stone on display.

TILES

our Showroom we have a number of stone displays on the floor as well as an extensive library of samples to view, ranging from

Limestones and Sandstones, through to Slates and Marbles – all exclusive to Porcellana Tile Studio.

The highly experienced team at Porcellana pride themselves on providing excellent customer service with a focus on detail, from initial design concepts through to delivery. Working with an array of clients, from architects and interior designers to private self-builders and renovators, the personal touch is evident throughout.

Porcellana are delighted to introduce Lapicida Stone into their portfolio. Lapicida are renowned for their range of stones as well as their fabrication, which allows us to design magnificent bespoke schemes for our clients, as Lapicida’s fabrication marries state-of-the-art processes with traditional stone-masonry techniques. In

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Studio B, The Carnegie Building, 121 Donegall Road, Belfast, BT12 5JL t: 028 9024 0040 e: studio@porcellanatilestudio.com w: www.porcellanatilestudio.com

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Your kitchen is the centre of your living space

Our consultation anddetail, design process free of charge We have an eye for and so do is our customers.

Our consultation and design process is free of charge. and it is important to us that we learn about you and In order to achieve the perfect kitchen to suit your your requirements to produce a kitchen design that lifestyle, we are happy to spend as much time as entirely meets and budget. necessary withyour you,brief learning about you and your requirements to produce a kitchen design that entirely meets your brief and budget.

Our design studio displays showcase yet a Wespacious have a major emphasis on craftsmanship utilize state-of-the-art production technology.

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An ELAN g! Entertainment and Home Control System offers an

With the Sonos Multi-Room Music System you can add music to every part of your life and every room in your house. Wirelessly,

true audiophile sound. And, a world of dazzling visual entertainment, from movies, sports, news and more, in any and every room you desire. And it’s all integrated seamlessly with the other systems.

same song in every room or different songs in different rooms. And Sonos gives you instant access to a world of music including iTunes, Napster, Spotify, Wolfgang’s Vault, Aupeo and many more.

Lighting in our homes can have a large impact on the way we live, our moods and the feel of our homes. We understand the impact of having control of your lighting, to suit your mood. We will work closely with you to get the most out of your Clipsal CBus digital lighting system whether it is just one room or your entire house and gardens. We are an Aquavision Authorised Installer. The ultimate in luxury, waterproof

GMS Intelligent Systems specialise in the management and integration of intelligent home solutions, via a structured cabling system (at building stage), to future-proof your home. Enabling incorporation of Digital Lighting, Audio Multi-Room and Visual Equipment, Telephone Data Networking, Security Systems and Gate Automation.

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INTERIOR DESIGN

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

LIVE TO ENJOY LIFE

A NEW LOOK FOR 2020

Ulster Tatler speaks to Philip Macari from PV Macari Interiors.

During our lives we make friends, neighbours and memories. This is a story about a remarkable lady. Mrs Ann Allen, was diagnosed, aged 36, with Multiple Sclerosis in 2000, and suffers from this debilitating disease (which has now developed into Secondary Progressive MS).

Ann and David were married in 1993, and like all married couples, set up home together. Their new home was in Banbridge, in a 2-storey dwelling, accompanied by their beloved cats and surrounded by good neighbours and lovely views. Unfortunately, although she lives life to the best of her ability, as her disability has worsened, Ann has found it increasingly difficult to get around their home (especially going up and down stairs) or out into the garden.

In 2019, Ann and David approached Mervyn McNeill of McNeill Architectural Consultancy to see how he could help. Mervyn identified many solutions a new extension to their home could possibly address, including an area for a lift. Ann opted for a full passenger lift (capable of carrying her wheelchair), installed

by Olympic Lifts Ltd. David and Ann’s house has now been transformed and is accessible both inside and out, and given Ann and David a new lease of life in their home today, and for the future.

How did you get into the interiors industry?

I first learnt the importance of colour and light through studying photography in university. This developed my passion for creative detailing. I was raised in retail and learnt from an early age that there is nothing more important than great customer service. Marrying these two passions paved a natural route for me into interiors. Nearly 20 years on I can’t imagine working at anything else.

What are the top trends in interiors for 2020?

2020 is going to be fun, colour is back, blues, pinks, greens and terracotta (I never thought it would return). The key is to be bold and individualistic.

Embrace contrasting patterns and textures and have fun with it. My brand recommendation of the moment is Osborne and Little. Their patterns balance the fine line of fun focal point, with providing a classic piece of design that will last for years to come.

What is your advice for anyone looking to re-decorate or refresh their home without breaking the bank?

My first piece of advice would be to declutter. Secondly, check your layout and lighting is working for your space and lifestyle. A fresh lick of paint can work wonders, not just for walls but for pieces of furniture as well. Try using a low adhesive tape for zoning areas with different colours as a cheap alternative to wallpaper and panelling. Reupholstering one key piece of furniture will instantly create a focal point, which will be unique to you.

What makes PV Macari unique?

We have a great team who all have different paths bringing them into the industry, but we are all so passionate about beautiful, functional interiors.

Each team member has their own specific skill set which they use together to ensure the customers will get the best result for their project. Being a local business with such a small close knit team gives a very personal element to the service we provide.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.OLYMPICLIFTS.CO.UK

BELFAST’S PREMIERE LIGHTING DESTINATION arches

lighting centre

CONTACT US TODAY

T: 028 9047 1849 E:

info@archeslightingcentre.co.uk

Mon-Friday 9:30am-5:30pm Thursday late opening to 8pm Sat 10.00am-5.00pm

16-22 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3EL Free Parking Available www.archeslightingcentre.co.uk @ArchesLightingCentreBelfast Bus lane - access to shop unaffected by Glider Bus lanes - Free parking available. @ archeslightingcentre

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BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

James Fairley, Bronach McGuinness, Marga Casacuberta and Victor Branco.

Richard Browbek, Anthony Brown, Ida Brown, Arthur Brown and Sharon Magee.

THE LAUNCH OF LIGHTSOURCE’S NEW LIGHTING DESIGN STUDIO

Lightsource were delighted to celebrate the launch of their new Lighting Design Studio, located in the historic Engine Room at the Portview Trade Centre. Lightsource want to thank all their friends in the industry for making it a roaring success!

The Engine Room has been uniquely modified to demonstrate lighting technologies and their effects, as well as highlighting some stunning products from around Europe. Lightsource provide tailored solutions for all types of Interior and Exterior Architectural, Commercial and Residential projects which include both lighting and shading controls. www.lightsource.co.uk Michael Martin and Damien McKay.

James Fairley, Ida Brown and Stephen Whalley.

Helen Scott and Norman Massey.

Lauren Robinson, Jeffrey Carleton and Emilia Wlodarczyk.

Stephen Smalley, Ian McKnight and Patrick Smyth.

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. David McClean, Ian Little and Mark King.

Charlotte Calderwood, Sam White and Emer McNern.

N EW SH O W RO

Your lighting partner

O M N O W O PE N !

Designer | Luxury | Architectural | Interior Lightsource offers a complete, appointment only service for the interior and exterior lighting of your dream home.

The Engine Room

028 9066 6615

Portview Trade Centre,

sales@thelightsource.co.uk

thelightsource

310 Newtownards Road, Belfast.

www.thelightsource.co.uk

@thelightsourceuk

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05/02/2020 16:43

HAGAN F L O O R I N G LT D Specialists in wood & natural stone

37 Shanliss Road, Coalisland.

Tel: 028 8774 8909 info@haganflooring.com

www.haganflooring.com Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF MAKING HAND-CRAFTED KITCHENS At Greenhill, they design and build awardwinning, hand-crafted kitchens and furniture.

Their clever, award-winning design puts them at the very top of kitchen design talent in the UK and Ireland. Their design vision changes the way clients live their lives. They can take a design idea, or an entire room, and flip it upside down to create a kitchen with real impact.

A visit to their KBB award-winning showroom is an inspiring, enjoyable experience.

You can explore their extensive range of handbuilt kitchens in full scale. From the modern contemporary to the traditional country and the timeless modern classic, they have the design and style you’re looking for.

Their kitchens and furniture are made to exacting standards by their expert craftsmen.

They use the best materials and all their appliances and fittings come from top UK and European manufacturers.

They’re not located in Belfast or Dublin. But it’s more than a little geography that sets them apart. It’s their approach. It’s their design talent.

It’s their award-winning showroom. It’s their friendly service from start to finish. At Greenhill they think it’s worth going the extra distance.

For more information visit www.greenhillkitchens.co.uk

PROVIDING YOUR FOREVER HOME Creating beautiful spaces for living, working and enjoying is a motto fully embodied by the awardwinning 2020 Architects; a small architecture practice with a big impact!

Located near the North Antrim Coast, owners Gareth, Michael and Richard have grown the business into a recognisable brand throughout Ireland.

Even though they undertake any size of project, from small extensions to large commercial projects, their most commendable work is within bespoke homes. They are a practice seeking to change Irish architecture one project at a time.

With pastiche design dominating local landscape over a number of decades they have

fought tirelessly for their clients to provide modern, striking homes which provide innovative emulations of the traditional vernacular, which can be seen on their most recognisable pieces of work, the Ballymagarry Project, a renovation project on the North Coast with stunning vistas over the North Atlantic.

The main aim of the practice is to provide outstanding homes for their clients, ensuring that they are provided their forever home on the first attempt.

For more information visit www.2020architects.co.uk 179

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

TIMBER FRAMES

A A A A A A A A

With our attention to detail and quality throughout we have never been busier. We are currently manufacturing and erecting a wide range of high-performance timber frame structures throughout Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Republic of Ireland at different levels of the market.

We at Leadon Timber Frame have grown and matured as a company of individuals dedicated to the design and construction of crafted timber frame structures. We are committed to ensuring that our clients’ requirements are fulfilled in all areas where satisfaction, value and quality become standard.

Our skilled knowledge and use of modern

methods of construction ensure that all our products are thermally efficient and ecologically sustainable, as well as cost-effective. We have invested in a purpose-built fully automated factory and offices and have a progressive continued investment in new technologies and personnel.

From your high specification Self Build Dwelling to large developments covering a wide range of applications including, Town Houses, Multi Storey Apartments, Nursing Homes and Hotels. We pride ourselves on our products and services to our clients with a majority of our business based on repeat custom and recommendations.

We would be more than happy to have the opportunity to quote on new projects.

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79 Dunnamore Road, Cookstown BT80 9NX T: 028 8675 1521 E: info@leadontimberframe.com www.leadontimberframe.com

Recommended Retailer for Santa Fe Shutters

Millennium Court, William Street, Portadown BT62 3NX Tel: 028 3833 2323 744 Upper Newtownards Road, Dundonald BT16 1RJ Tel: 028 9081 4197 www.classicblindsbelfast.co.uk

SELF BUILD

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME Images courtesy of Block Creative Design.

FOUR GOOD REASONS TO SELF BUILD As you contemplate your Self Build project, you can see many benefits it brings to you and your family including four main ones.

event of a claim, wider policy benefits and competitive premiums combine to make up the formula for REAL VALUE.

Self Building projects are proving to be very beneficial for four main reasons:

ACHIEVEMENT Trusting Kerr Group Insurance Brokers with your business provides real PEACE OF MIND and “JOB DONE” satisfaction.

CHOICE Being able to build in the location of your choice.

DESIGN About selecting a design which gives the best options for you.

VALUE Getting more for your money.

ACHIEVEMENT - A real sense of achievement having created your own home.

Whenever you select Kerr Group Insurance Brokers as your insurance adviser on your Self Build project - we can bring you similar benefits.

CHOICE You can deal with us on the phone, via the internet or by calling at any one of our 9 locations across the province.

for own tools and hired in equipment for which you will be fully responsible.

Call now for a quotation.

Kerr Group Insurance Brokers understands the needs of self builders or renovators. Self Build Insurance is extremely important and no project should be undertaken without it. Key components of a Self Build Insurance policy will include: Public Liability Insurance - To provide cover in the event of your liability for damage to third party property or injury to any person (other than employees) whilst on your site. It is important to remember that injuries can be sustained by both visitors AND trespassers.

Employers Liability - To provide cover against liability for injury to employees and labour-only sub-contractors.

DESIGN We will provide you with an insurance policy which has been designed specifically for the needs of the self builder.

Contract Works - Providing cover for loss or damage to the building works and materials in course of construction, including theft. Key benefits of the Kerr Group policy include a £5 million limit of indemnity on Public Liability which satisfies the requirements of the Roads Service.

VALUE The advice we provide, assistance in the

Up to 24 months cover which allows extra time in case a problem arises and additional cover

Offices in: Kilrea, Claudy, Cookstown, Randalstown, Ballynahinch and Markethill, Bushmills, Portadown, Magherafelt.

0345 0703053

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority • Firm Reference Number 308073

www.selfbuildinsurance.com 90 years service in the community

EXPERTISE + PRODUCTS + PRICE + SERVICE = REAL VALUE 183

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

As founder of Annan Interiors in 1999, Gordon Annan applied his already substantial experience in the interiors industry into forming one of the leading project-based interior successes in the UK and Ireland.

Services Available With a comprehensive product collection, sample showroom and a talented, experienced well-trained team, the company is ideally equipped to offer a range of services to meet the needs of clients over a wide range of home, business and leisure applications.

Showroom Facilities The showroom is an introduction to the product ranges available and experienced staff can provide advice for the selection of the right seating, table, storage system or light fitting.

The project portfolio can even be reviewed over coffee in a relaxed environment.

9

Ulster Tatler AWARDS

WINNER! INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Lighting Annan Interiors are importers for both architectural and decorative lighting from Europe’s top design-led manufacturers such as Artemide, Foscarini, Flos and Rotaliana and can create whole-house overviews as part of lighting schemes. The company also acts as an interface between client and home automation suppliers providing clarity to the potential of this technical area.

Fabrics Working with Kinnasand, Kvadrat, Casamance and Silent Gliss - innovators in textiles and window furnishing - a great choice of solutions are available using the most beautiful printed cotton, pleated and crumpled sheers, as well as motorised curtain tracks and blinds.

Creating Interiors Nationwide Annan Interiors has clients throughout

Design Service The company also offers a comprehensive interior design service starting, if the client wishes, with lighting design working through tiling and sanitary ware specification to soft furnishing proposals. Annan Interior’s clients tend to be strongly motivated by very contemporary aesthetics and the company takes on board their lifestyle and goals in its interior design response.

Furniture The timeless design of the German manufacturers Interlübke and Cor spearhead the collection but the company also offers Sancal, Porada, Cattelan Italia, Punt, Rexite and many more. The common thread in the harmonious product range on offer is a very pure design flavour.

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Ireland supported by its own delivery and installation service. Making an appointment is recommended to avail of design consultation.

Also on offer is a full range of support services for your own architect, independent designer or project manager.

Annan Interiors 6 Portland Business Park Tempo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 4RH T: 028 6634 0055 E: annaninteriors@btconnect.com www.annaninteriors.com

Quality Garage Doors & More • Garage Doors - Up & Over, Sectional, Roller, Automatic • Front and Back Doors - Aluminium, Composite • Panoramic

Senator Doors supply and install only the finest external doors to all customers throughout Ireland. Available in a wide variety of materials, colours, finishes and styles, we offer a diverse range to meet individual preferences and requirements.

• Over 35 years’ experience • Unrivalled service • Huge range to choose from • Highly experienced & skilled installation team • Free, no obligation survey

New to the market for Ireland in 2020- The Next Generation Folding Door- individually offering a Better Folding Door Experience

• Interlocking Panels • Locks and hinges hidden inside the panels and frame • Easier to maintain

www.senatordoors.co.uk

Email: sales@senatordoors.co.uk Phone: +44 (0)28 4175 3753 Address: Westview House, Mill Town Industrial Estate, Warrenpoint, Co. Down, BT34 3FN

THE SCENE

Marty Gray, Donnamarie Keegan, Paddy Gray, Agnes Gray and Hugh J. Carroll.

Colm McDaid, Nicola McCrudden, Janet Hunter and Charles O’Neill.

AN OBE FOR CONNSWATER HOMES’ PROFESSOR PADDY GRAY Friends and colleagues from across the UK and Ireland met recently at the Bullitt Hotel, Belfast, to celebrate with Professor Paddy Gray, Chairman of Connswater Homes, on his recent award of an OBE for services to housing in Northern Ireland in the New Year’s Honours list. A former President of the Chartered Institute of Housing, Paddy has been instrumental in assisting over 1,000 graduates who now work in housing, improving lives and building strong communities. The Board of Connswater Homes extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Gray OBE. www.connswater.org.uk

Paddy Gray with son Paddy, Suzanne McVicker and grandaughter Dearbhla.

Paddy Gray, Sylvia Gregson and Tony Ruddy.

David McCallum and John O’Connor.

Kelly Andrews, Martin Leahy and Sara Templer.

Catherine Waterworth, Paddy Gray and Liz McKeown.

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. Martin Armstrong and Paddy Gray.

Michael Graham, Jacqueline Locke and Martin Leahy.

UT Living

EMPOWERING EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS University of Atypical is a disabled-led arts charity, taking an empowerment-based approach towards supporting disabled and D/ deaf people’s involvement in the arts. This month, they have a jampacked schedule of exhibitions, events and projects on the go that you can get involved in.

Exhibition – Brian Kielt: Confessional Brian Kielt is a painter based in mid-Ulster who makes work about memory, trauma and anxiety. Titled Confessional, this exhibition features portraits and landscapes which combine found and original imagery. Exhibition runs 5 March to 10 April 2020.

Acupuncture for artists – Tuesday 10 March Mental ill-health amongst artists is three times the national average.

To coincide with Confessional’s themes of trauma and anxiety, University of Atypical are offering free acupuncture sessions for artists in partnership with Extern. 24 places are available and will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please contact jane@ universityofatypical.org to register.

Epilepsy Action: National Doodle Day, Friday 6 March 2020 In Northern Ireland approximately 20,000 people have epilepsy.

University of Atypical are partnering with Epilepsy Action to hold a Doodle Day as part of their national fundraising and profile-raising activities. Join them in Atypical Gallery from 11am to 4pm for a day of doodling fun. Suitable for all ages.

JACKSONS OF SAINTFIELD

For more information visit www.universityofatypical.org

New arrivals

A fun and lively colour palette which creates a fresh and contemporary aesthetic for your home.

Jacksons of Saintfield T. 028 9751 1429

JACKSONS OF MOIRA

100 Main Street T. 028 9261 3660 Free parking at rear

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UlsterTatler FOCUS ON

National Bed Month O

rganised by The Sleep Council, National Bed Month (1st – 31st March) aims to teach everyone the importance of a good night’s sleep and its benefits to our health. A good sleep could add years to your life! It helps to promote a stronger immune system, improve your mental health, maintain a healthy heart, reduce stress levels and prevent obesity. Some studies have also revealed it could reduce the risk of serious long-term conditions such as Alzheimer’s. If you haven’t bought a bed in 7 years or more (along with a third of the population), you may want to consider a new one! After 7 years, old beds can deteriorate by up to 70% from its ‘as new’ state.

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Ltd

Beds l Mattresses l Sliding Robes l Furniture l Rugs l Lamps l Adjustable Beds l Bunks l Wall Art l Clocks l Tilt & Lift Chairs l Fireside Chairs

Tel: 028 3025 2020/07515 693562 Barkston Bed & Home Ltd 85A Cloughenramer Road, Newry BT34 1QG FIND US ON FACEBOOK

WWW.BARKSTONBEDANDHOME.CO.UK WE ARE LOCATED APPROX 2 MILES FROM NEWRY, JUST OFF THE A1 CARRIAGEWAY, TAKE THE SHEEPBRIDGE EXIT AND DRIVE TOWARDS NEWRY AT SHEEPBRIDGE ROUNDABOUT.

NATIONAL BED MONTH special focus ALL

direct furniture

LTD

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As used in leading Irish Hotel

5 LUXURY IN YOUR OWN HOME

DREAMING ABOUT YOUR PERFECT BED With March being ‘National Bed Month’ Keens Furniture in Belfast are on hand to help you get your best night’s sleep. Their in-store specialists have the expertise and knowledge to advise you in buying the right bed and also the right mattress to suit your needs.

Selecting the right mattress not only provides you with the opportunity to have the perfect night’s sleep but can prevent back pain. Whether you prefer the idea of latest Geltex infused foam technology, or a more traditional style mattress packed with natural fillings, or firm versus soft, you will find a huge selection in the showroom to try out. You spend a lot of time in bed so it is worth spending a bit of time testing how it feels to make sure it supports your body.

Keens Furniture are stockists of many of the best manufacturers in the UK, including Harrison, Hypnos, Sealy and Silentnight, so you can be guaranteed only top quality brands.

There is no need to wait as they keep many beds and mattresses in stock for express delivery. With National Bed Month underway, now is the perfect time to go bed shopping as there are lots of special offers in store.

BUY NOW PAY NEXT YEAR • Minimum spend £555 subject to status

BIGGEST BED SHOP IN BELFAST OVER 1000 BEDS IN STOCK

For more information visit www.keensfurniture.com or call 028 9045 3310.

To advertise in the

Ulster Tatler

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Keeping you in the picture

call us now on 028 9066 3311 or email: sales@ulstertatler.com.

577-593 Falls Road, Belfast • Tel: 028 9062 3930 (opposite Sainsburys, near Kennedy Way)

328 Antrim Road, Belfast • Tel: 028 9074 5292 (near Tesco)

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NATIONAL BED MONTH SPECIAL FOCUS

RELAX AND UNWIND FOR NATIONAL BED MONTH Situated in Newtownards, Sound Asleep Beds is an independent bed retailer operating for over 16 years.

Sound Asleep are recommended stockists for the best quality in beds and mattresses manufactured in the UK and Ireland. These premium brands include Vispring, Harrison Spinks, Millbrook, Hypnos, King Koil and Whitemeadow.

When you visit you will find over 50 beds on display in a comfortable relaxed environment where you can take your time to find the bed with the correct level of support and comfort and select from styles and fabric colours for divans, headboards and bedframes, with expert advice on hand when you need it.

Pictured is the Harrison Blue Diamond. Hand teased horsehair, Yorkshire wool, cashmere, wool, silk and mohair with 27400 pocket springs - Prices from ÂŁ1599.

Free car parking is available, open 7 days a week with late night opening until 8pm on Thursdays. 1 Glenford Road, Newtownards, BT23 4AU

NEW BEDROOM COLLECTIONS AT WARDENS OF NEWTOWNARDS New from Baker, the Valetta bedroom collection has arrived in Wardens. Carefully hand crafted from solid reclaimed wood, this extensive range has nine beautiful pieces to choose from with each one unique.

As one of Northern Ireland’s leading home furnishing retailers, Wardens has carefully selected leading brands of bedroom furniture from around the world, and these are complemented by the most beautiful bedlinen and accessories. New spring bedding ranges from Ted Baker, Clarissa Hulse, Fat Face, Scion, Morris & Co, Harlequin, Bedeck of Belfast and Sanderson are now available in store.

This Bed Month at Wardens those buying a double Relyon bed will receive a free upgrade to a Kingsize. Visit www.wardenbros.com or Tel 028 91 812147 for more information.

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The Word

WELCOMING SPRING

Following on from the busy Big Winter Sale, RightPrice Coleraine, are delighted to be restocking and getting their showroom ready with all the new arrivals for spring.

The directors attended the annual furniture show in Birmingham and saw some gorgeous new inspiring designs and ideas, such as some fantastic new lines arriving in flooring, furniture and in the fishbowl department.

They are delighted to be introducing the Voyage Maison Range.

Voyage are passionate about fabric and design. Their vision is to create and enhance the beautiful home with a fresh, artistic feel that is unique in look and represents a contemporary, country lifestyle.

In the flooring section they have introduced the fantastic Crucial Trading – Where Inspiration Begins. Choose the right floor covering and everything else falls into place. Why not call in and see the fantastic stand with the extensive range of options for carpets and rugs, where you can also build your own design.

The trend is continuing with grey as the go-to base colour for suites and carpets, but there are so many gorgeous vibrant colours available to add that pop where it is needed. Once again blues, greens and blush are popular colours in suites, chairs and soft furnishings, such as throws, cushions and bedding.

Don’t forget you can pop into the Pantry @RightPrice for a spot of lunch or just a coffee and a scone.

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? We mainly service private gardens in Lisburn & South Belfast, but will travel further for larger properties— Please give us a call to discuss your requirements.

We provide long-term reliability - with some gardens maintained for over 20 years.

Your garden is safe in our hands with a horticulturally driven maintenance plan, and dedicated staff trained to follow it.

All payments are by monthly Direct Debit simple safe and hassle free.

Check out our online reviews, with over 45 Google reviews - many 5 star.

The gardeners are very reliable and obliging They take good care of the garden - Helen

Open 6 days a week, with a late night on Thursday until 8pm T: 028 7034 4482 Check out Facebook and Instagram for stories and information

Tel: 028 9267 2108 Mob: 07935 770025 www.scgardening.com

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THE SCENE

Katie and Stephen Jeffers.

Jake and Louise Elliott with Lisa Greenhalgh and John Leckey.

smeg cookery demo at bodel At a Smeg cookery demonstration at Bodel Distributors, local chef Stephen Jeffers prepared a fantastic feast of various dishes.

All the guests thoroughly enjoyed a traditional Turkey with all the trimmings prepared in a Smeg Linea oven. Stephen also used the Smeg combination oven microwaves, induction hob and steam ovens to cook his tasty dishes. He also showcased the powerful and striking red Smeg stand mixer to make the meringue dessert.

For more details on Smeg or the next demonstration please contact Bodel Distributors on 028 92672412 Amanda and Raymond Bagnall.

Darren and Judith Taylor with Cyril White.

Chef Stephen Jeffers.

Guests enjoying the cooking demo.

Simon Cooke and Lee Williamson.

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Carson and Diane McMullan.

The Word

Gilbert Law & Co. ilb

Home to Performances, Exhibitions & Workshops

Investigators

w

G

er t L a Investigators

• Insurance Fraud Investigations • Employee Sickness Investigations • Matrimonial & Domestic Investigations

• Investigative Research • Process Serving • Litigation Support • General Investigations

Free Admission

• Means & Status Reports

The Arts Council Collection on Tour

• Corporate & Due Diligence

• Surveillance

Investigations & much

• Tracing Missing Persons

more.

Friday 6 March – Saturday 4 April New Exhibition Opens at Down Arts Centre

GILBERT LAW & CO INVESTIGATORS LTD John Montgomery Tel: 07732 846886 Email: john@gilbertlaw.co.uk Web: www.gilbertlaw.co.uk

Don’t miss out! Come and see this fantastic collection of contemporary art ranging in a number of media, purchased from both emerging and established Northern Ireland artists.

GILBERT LAW INVESTIGATORS are licensed by the Office of Fair Trading and registered under the Data Protection Act.

Box Office: 028 4461 0747

John and Roland are members of the Association of British Investigators.

Gilbert Law is based in Mid Ulster and is Northern Ireland’s oldest established Security & Investigative company founded in 1889.

Ag freastal ar an Dún agus Ard Mhacha Theas Serving Down and South Armagh

Established 1913

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The Word

Kevin Kingston, Danske Bank, and Danny McQuillan, Extern, with Alex and Ben, both of whom have successfully participated in and benefited from Extern projects. Alex is now employed by Extern NI in a peer mentoring role for young people.

Danske bank announces charity partnership with extern ni Danske Bank has announced that it will be supporting Extern NI as its new charity partner, with a focus on helping to transform the lives of some of the most vulnerable and socially deprived young people in Northern Ireland.

Extern NI helps 16,000 children, young people and adults to change their lives each year, through a range of services.

Danske Bank’s support in 2020 will specifically support the charity’s work with children and young people, through fundraising, volunteering time and skills, mentoring and other joint initiatives.

Announcing the new partnership, Danske Bank’s Chief Executive Kevin Kingston said: “As a responsible business we want to play our part in helping to address the biggest societal issues facing Northern Ireland. Social deprivation is a very real and alarming issue here. As many as one in four children are living in poverty, and many young people simply don’t have a hand at their back – getting another chance can change a life.

“By raising awareness of the issues, engaging with colleagues, customers and partners in fundraising activities and by sharing our time, skills, and professional expertise, we hope to help create those

chances. In turn, we look forward to learning from Extern’s 40 years of experience in this area and to use that knowledge to improve how we support our own colleagues and customers who are in vulnerable circumstances.”

Extern’s Director of Services, Danny McQuillan, added: “We are absolutely thrilled that Danske Bank has chosen our work with young people to be the focus of this new charity partnership.

Not only will Danske Bank’s fundraising enable us to deliver additional and muchneeded support for the young people we work with, the partnership will also provide them with access to a whole new array of vital opportunities for mentoring and life-skills development through Danske’s fantastic team of staff volunteers. We are incredibly excited by this partnership and the potential it has to make more possible for marginalised children and young people right across Northern Ireland.”

Amongst their many services, Extern NI supports people living with mental health issues and the impact of suicide, people who are homeless, people living with problematic drug and alcohol use, people with an offending background, and minority communities.

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‘‘

We are incredibly excited by this partnership and the potential it has to make more possible for marginalised children and young people right across Northern Ireland.

’’

What’s On At

ISLAND ARTS CENTRE Vinyl ISLAND presents: Fleetwood Mac, Rumours Ralph’s Record Club, Sat 25th April at 8pm Tickets £9 Ralph McLean returns with another classic album on vinyl, inviting you to fall back in love with your favourite music. This month it’s Fleetwood Mac’s iconic ‘Rumours’. With full album playback, an exclusive live performance and informed chat, this is a great way to relive some of music’s greatest hits and hear it the way the artists wanted you to hear it!

Andrew Butler: Secret Preview: Wed 11th March Exhibition Runs: Thurs 12th Mar - Wed 8th Apr Andrew Butler lived and worked in Northern Ireland from 1994 – 2004.

This is a rare series of paintings and drawings based around the Lebensborn Programme.

Baby Babble Sat 28th March, Sat 25th April, Sat 23rd May, Sat 20th June 11am-12pm £5 adult & child ticket or £22 for all 5 workshops Nurture your baby’s creativity, for 1 – 18 months, and enhance that special bond you share during these sensory workshops using sound, texture, movement and colour.

Lucy Caldwell & Glenn Patterson Thurs 11th June 8pm Award winning author Lucy Caldwell, whose work includes “Multitudes” and “Intimacies” joins critically acclaimed author Glenn Patterson, writer of ten previous novels and co-writer of “Good Vibrations”, to discuss (among other things) how titles can help shape or direct narrative, the differing demands of short stories and novels, and why they have both been drunk on Louis MacNeice since the dawn of their writing times.

www.islandartscentre.com Box Office: 028 9244 7744

Arts

a must-see exhibition A new exhibition is set to open in Millennium Court Arts Centre on 13th March, running until 9th May, called ‘No Time’ by Martin Boyle.

Exhibition description: Ideas of Euphoric Romanticism advocated our decentralised position in the universe and looked for ways to express a deeper and otherwise unknowable reality behind what can be perceived.

Those of us whose imaginations have been captivated by the immensity of that which lies beyond our ability to grasp is captivated by the Romantic impulse.

As scientific enquiry fails to fully construct a complete picture of nature, as theories of everything continue to fail, it is a reminder that things are hidden from us and we don’t have access to what reality may be really like.

The conceptual work in the exhibition takes something simple and straightforward like our linear perception of time and peels back the surface revealing something difficult and incomprehensible. The works presented use different concepts and speculative theories of time, which do not cohere, creating instability that allows for complexity, and gaps, and darkness.

In this time, there is a feeling that attitudes are narrowing, turning rigid, inward, and hostile. Through wonder, the work questions a delusion of our self-importance in the universe and an acknowledgement that we are not on top of everything.

For more information visit www.millenniumcourt.org

FORTHCOMING SALE OF MARGEY ORIGINALS AT MALONE HOUSE BELFAST After the success of his one man show in the stunning Drawing Office at the Titanic Hotel, artist Adrian Margey is preparing for his second exhibition of 2020 in the charming surroundings of Malone House situated within Barnett Demesne Belfast on Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th April.

This second city exhibition will feature portrayals of Belfast, Donegal, the North Coast, Glens of Antrim and the Mournes. From large-scale canvases to smaller works, collectors and art lovers will enjoy cityscapes, landscapes, traditional music scenes and depictions of iconic landmarks.

The artist will be in attendance throughout the course of the exhibition to discuss the work on show and potential commissions with visitors.

Visitors to the exhibition can avail of free car parking at Malone House. Show runs 11am – 8pm on Saturday 4th April and 11am – 6pm on Sunday 5th April. Admission free – everyone welcome.

For more information visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone the Portrush Studio on 07841593762.

‘Cavehill Splendour’.

Artist Adrian Margey.

Crowds at Margey’s last exhibition at Titanic Hotel.

198

‘Spring Arrives at Barnett Demesne.’

THE SCENE

Her Royal Highness reveals plaque commemorating her visit.

The Duchess nurtures the animals along with the children.

d uch e s s of cam b ri dg e v is it

The Duchess of Cambridge visited the Ark Open Farm near Newtownards, as part of her tour of the UK to promote her landmark survey on the early years, ‘5 Big Questions on the UnderFives’. During her visit to the farm, Her Royal Highness spoke to local people about the themes covered in her survey. The Duchess heard their thoughts on the most important factors that ensure children become happy adults and the role of parents and society in ensuring children have the best possible start in life. The Duchess was greeted on arrival by the Lord Lieutenant of County Down, David Lindsay, the Sheriff of County Down, Austin Baird and the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Bill Keery.

Photos by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Staff of Ark Open Farm.

Ian Willis D.POD.M.M.Ch.S.S.R.Ch Kyle Willis B.S.C (Hons) MChs

Services provided: • Routine foot care • Diabetic foot care • Verrucas • Nail surgery • Lower limb biomechanics • Orthotics • House calls available • Evening Clinics

Valerie Boyd McGregor has just written her first children’s book and has been inspiring school children to write and illustrate their own stories. The book, which is beautifully illustrated, has a gentle reminder to care for our lovely landscape, in this case the drumlins of Co Down.

Contact us:

Tel: 028 3833 0803 Mob: 07831 587111 16 Church Street, Portadown, BT62 3LN

Contact info@applehousepublishing.co.uk Selling on Amazon

We are also in Tandragee Tel: 028 3884 0209

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The Word

DIVERSIFYING DAIRY Set on the rural, picturesque Ards Peninsula, family-owned Glastry Farm dates from 1856, with 5th and 6th generations of the family still working there. The Irish translation of Glastry is “the townland of the green pastures”, which is as perfect a description of a place as we can think of.

With upwards of 300 pedigree Friesian Holstein milking cows, some 20% of milk production goes into clean, environmentally sound ice cream production, producing a range of fresh, local, healthy, unprocessed ice creams and sorbets for NI and Irish distribution. The ice cream contains more than 70% pure dairy milk straight from the farm!

Loughry Campus’ Food Technology Centre in mid Ulster has continuously contributed to innovation and the development of new flavours. Diversifying further into sorbets resulted in these being vegan, low fat and egg and dairy free, an irony for a dairy milkfarm.

The majority of the ice cream and sorbet range is naturally gluten free and Glastry Farm is a member of Gluten-Free Ireland.

www.skeaeggs.com

For more information visit www.glastryfarm.com

For better Private Homecare How We Care:

146 Pomeroy Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon Co. Tyrone BT70 2TY

T: 028 8776 1252

For a Free Consultation to discuss your options call: Niamh - 028 9033 2190 Tracey - 028 4483 0486 Homecare@trackarshealthcare.com 200

Historic Pub Opens Newly Refurbished Restaurant ‘The Loft’ The Oaks, a historic country Pub and Restaurant situated in the tiny hamlet of Darraghcross in Co. Down, is excited to be opening a newly refurbished restaurant under its roof.

The Oaks was built in 1907 by K.G. Walker for the price of £896.00.

At the time the pub was also used as a general food store, stocking meal and corn and other farm supplies in the loft upstairs, above the public bar.

The Loft restaurant, on the second floor, is inspired by the imagery of the past, designed to bring back the history of the old meal and general store with a large beautiful barn door, the original hard wooden floors, rustic wooden beams and authentic hand built stone walls. A warm and welcoming touch of the old era with all the perks of modern dining.

Head chef, Bobby Mees, has presided over the kitchen for almost 10 years. Bobby’s creations bring customers of all tastes and predilections

through the doors. Expanding upon this, The Loft restaurant will not only be the home of the exceptional ‘Loft Specials’ but it will also feature a selection of Bobby’s beloved dishes from the original menu, all cooked from fresh, local produce.

The Oaks is already known for its good food and is often described as a hidden gem; The Loft restaurant will continue to live up to the high praise.

The Oaks serves food seven days a week in the bistro whilst The Loft opens for dining every Saturday (from 5.30pm to 9.30pm), with plans to extend opening to include a Sunday lunch service already on the agenda.

The Oaks Family are so honoured and thankful to their customers who have supported them through the years and with the opening of The Loft they hope to bring in some new and familiar friendly faces.

T: 028 9751 9167 E: theoaksbar@hotmail.co.uk www.theoaksbar.com 5 Darragh Cross, Saintfield, BT34 7EQ The Oak Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12noon - 9pm • Saturday 12noon – 9.30pm • Sunday 12noon – 8.30pm The Loft Opening Hours: Saturday 5.30pm – 9.30pm • Sunday 12noon – 8.30pm

Eat : Stay : Relax

ulster tatler retailer of the month

Fine dining Del Toro has become a name known for excellent local food perfect for all occasions and more than just a steak house. Lee Mullan, head chef, has worked for Del Toro for 10 years and has over 20 years’ experience within the hospitality industry. Having created a new menu for the newly relocated Del Toro that looks towards the modern next generation but also caters for the traditional diners.

“When I left school my brother Joe took me under his wing and trained me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, but there are many other chefs that inspire me today that are really setting the trends and have signature cooking styles.”

Our September 2019 Retailer of the Month is Sainsbury’s Sprucefield filling station. Ulster Tatler’s Ann Armstrong is pictured with Scott Clifford from Sainbusry’s Sprucefield.

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A seaside haven

ULSTEr tatler’s Hannah Reilly visits King Sitric in Howth, County Dublin. community, and proved to be a knowledgeable source of information regarding the area and its many excursions.

Indeed, from panoramic bike tours to coastal walks and chowder trails, Howth is a bountiful source of seaside adventures.

Having stayed in several members of Ireland’s Blue Book, I have discovered that its collection of hotels and country houses sets the bar high, with each property offering a mix of first-class cuisine, atmospheric settings, and a warm Irish welcome as soon as you step through the door. King Sitric, a seaside restaurant and hotel located in the village of Howth, ticked every box and more for me, with my recent visit being a perfect display of hospitality from start to finish.

Situated only 25 minutes from Dublin city via the Dart, Howth is a coastal gem, with a local golf course and yacht club. King Sitric was opened by proprietor Aidan MacManus in the early seventies, and has grown into a well-established spot by the pier, which boasts breath-taking views of the harbour and beyond.

After a short drive from Belfast, my companion and I entered through the hotel’s East Café Bar, which had a wonderfully vibrant atmosphere, with people sitting down for dinner or enjoying a casual drink at the bar with their dog relaxing nearby (the property is petfriendly). The hotel’s accommodation consists of 8 guest bedrooms which are aptly named after Irish lighthouses; we had the pleasure of staying in Tuskar Rock, located on the first floor. Each room features views of the idyllic seafront outside, and in keeping with the hotel’s surroundings, the décor was tastefully nautical, with quirky additions like a wooden anchor-shaped key chain attached to the room key. Our room was quaint – the perfect size for a weekend getaway.

For dinner, we sat in East Café’s quirky beach hut area - a raised booth with its own roof which provided the perfect setting for a cosy meal. Being a lover of seafood, I was torn in so many directions whilst scanning the menu, which showcased a variety of freshly-caught and prepared dishes. For those who aren’t

as fond of fish dishes, the café also offers a selection of beef, chicken and vegetarian options. Indecisive, I asked the bar staff for their recommendations, and I eventually opted for two dishes: Dublin Bay Prawns and Crab Claws, both served in garlic butter. Both were soft and tangy with a squeeze of lemon, and complemented an accompaniment of sweet brown bread perfectly.

My companion was recommended the Smoked Haddock Smokies, which is an indulgent bowl of haddock pieces topped with crème fraiche, melted cheese, spring onion and a side of crusty slices of sourdough bread. Dip the bread into the bowl, and you are in food heaven. Every bite of food was a fresh burst of flavour, and washed down with a wonderful bottle of the house white (Pinot Blanc, Cuvee les Amours, Hugel 2015, King Sitric Reserve), I couldn’t think of a more comforting set-up.

Following dinner, we were introduced to one of King Sitric’s proprietors, Joan MacManus. Joan was undoubtedly passionate about Howth and its local

After a comfortable night’s sleep, we enjoyed an espresso while admiring the peaceful views of the sea outside – it was a far cry from the crowded suburban landscape that I usually wake up to. We headed to the main restaurant for breakfast, and before perusing the menu, we picked at the restaurant’s continental selection and enjoyed bowls of fresh fruit and wheaten topped with homemade jams (the raspberry and vanilla jam in particular was lovely).

Being a seaside establishment, I figured that I would make the most of King Sitric’s fresh food offerings and opted for organic Atlantic salmon with scrambled eggs, while my companion enjoyed a plate of grilled kippers. The restaurant also boasts spectacular views of the pier, which gives you the perfect opportunity to tear your eyes away from your phone and take in your scenic surroundings.

Howth’s proximity to Belfast as well as Dublin makes it an ideal candidate for either a day trip or a weekend away. The village caters to all tastes, whether you fancy a peaceful seaside retreat or enjoy fast-paced water activities. Howth is also steeped in sites of historical interest, being home to ancient Irish monuments like Aideen’s Grave. Whatever the nature of your visit to Howth, I suggest you make King Sitric your resting point, where you will be guaranteed the freshest of local produce and the best of Irish hospitality from beginning to end.

King Sitric Fish Restaurant & Seaview Accommodation East Pier, Howth Co. Dublin, D13 F5C6 T: 353 1 832 5235 W: www.kingsitric.ie

Irish Country Houses, Historic Hotels and Restaurants www.irelandsbluebook.com

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Eat : Stay : Relax

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Lentil, broccoli and pomegranate salad with grilled halloumi Serves 3-4

½ pack (100g) tenderstem broccoli A big handful flat-leaf parsley 1 red pepper 1 can green lentils, drained and rinsed 80g pomegranate seeds ½ red chilli 1 lemon 4 tblsp olive oil 1 tsp honey 2 tblsp Linwoods hemp seeds 1 pack halloumi • Chop the broccoli, parsley and pepper and mix with the lentils and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl.

• Grate the chilli and zest the lemon with a fine grater and put in a small bowl with the juice of the lemon and olive oil. Season with sea salt and black pepper, mix together and pour over the salad. Heat a non-stick pan and lightly cook the halloumi until it is golden on both sides. Serve on top of the salad.

www.linwoodshealthfoods.com

Recipe by leading nutritionist Jane McClenaghan www.vital-nutrition.co.uk

Jane McClenaghan

Jane McClenaghan founded Vital Nutrition in Belfast in 2001. Through Vital Nutrition, Jane shares her passion for healthy food through workshops and demos to groups in workplaces, community groups and schools as well as individual clients. Jane’s goal is “to get people excited about the powerful effects that the food in our breakfast bowl, lunch box or dinner plate has on our wellbeing”.

Jane has created this vibrant salad, topped with Linwoods Shelled Hemp to help us spring into Spring.

This delicious lunch will help to balance energy levels, provide us with a healthy dose of fibre and work our way towards our five a day target. With benefits for weight management, natural female balance and cardiovascular health, this salad is sure to become a lunchbox favourite.

UlsterTatler FOCUS ON

Portstewart

Portstewart is a scenic seaside resort with coastal paths forming an Atlantic promenade. Explore the popular tourist attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Old Bushmills Distillery.

The two-mile-long, blue flag beach protected by the National Trust is popular with surfers and holiday makers and so a visit there is an absolute must!

Upcoming events Weave Against Plastic Mon 02 March 2020 19:00-21:00 Help make Portstewart Strand free from single use plastic by joining the basket weaving classes in March led by the super talented Louise of Atlantic Craft NI. Louise will be teaching 20 lucky participants the art of basket weaving while incorporating pieces of plastic found on the beach into the weave.

St Patrick’s Day Celebrations at the Giant’s Causeway Tue 17 March 2020 Take a hop and a skip across the world-famous stones this Saint Patrick’s Day. Tap your toes to traditional Irish music and dancers before following the leprechaun trail down to Northern Ireland’s only World Heritage Site.

Easter Seasonal Programme April 11 to April 13 2020 In Causeway Coast and Glens towns (Limavady, Ballycastle, Portrush and Portstewart) join some of the fantastic characters lined up for 2020’s Causeway Coast and Glens Easter programme as they take you on a fun filled ride of laughter. Something for all the family, this year’s programme is packed with street entertainment including juggling, plate spinning, whip cracking and much more.

AN ODE TO PORTSTEWART

Ulster Tatler talks to journalist, Deric Henderson about what he loves about Portstewart.

On the wall at our family room in south Belfast there is a beautiful oil painting by my daughterin-law Ursula, which serves as a reminder about all the little things which makes Portstewart so special.

The lighting was perfect the day she positioned herself close to the harbour as she reached for the brushes to capture the Promenade in all its splendid glory, looking towards where the Montagu Arms Hotel once stood before the old landmark building gave way to a modern apartment block, and smart new commercial space.

There seems to be more coffee shops per square yard along that stretch of seafront compared to anywhere else in Northern Ireland, and affording such stunning views, this is surely

becoming one of the most desirable residential locations on the North Coast.

BT9 is where the home is, but the heart is never far from the place, which has retained such drawing powers for this family over the last 20 years. Here, life is lived as a leisurely pace amid a certain sense of old decency confirming, for me anyway, that Portstewart is a cut above the rest. No fuss, no drama, and no harm to the likes of neighbouring Portrush.

The traffic, particularly on a Sunday, can be a pain at times, but I love Portstewart, its people and places.

Let’s start with the Strand. It’s amazing the people you meet and see there. Some days it is like a convention venue for old friends from all over who you haven’t met in ages. Chances of reaching the Barmouth and back in less than an hour can be tight, but if the weather is kind and there is nothing more threatening than the shallow ripples of an incoming tide, then why the hurry?

For dining out, I never tire of Amici and couldn’t believe how good the food and service was at the re-opened Me and Mrs Jones on the Sunday night of the Open Championship last July, and it seems everybody, Royal Portrush members included, can’t wait for the exciting new catering to be introduced at Portstewart Golf Club this year.

Ian McAfee’s second hand bookshop is 206

always worth a browse, if only to check out if there are any new copies of a best-selling crime story set in Coleraine being re-cycled, and I never pass the excellent PortstewART gallery without a long, lingering look at what’s on offer.

Long may Morellis continue to serve the world and his wife. It is an institution.

Warke’s Deli gets my vote (only just) as the best of all the coffee shops (as of mid-February), and across the road, Peter Boston’s trawler, Boy Matthew, will be bobbing about in the harbour as he busies himself getting ready for the arrival of his next fishing party.

He fishes for most of the year with a Donegal crew in a freezing and hostile ocean near Iceland, but when the skipper returns safe and sound for the summer months, it’s as if it is all good and well, and normal service has fully resumed.

Peter has already been out in the early morning emptying the lobster pots, and half way through the afternoon expedition half a mile or so off the coast, there was always time for a tea break and maybe a question or two.

“Are you still a no sugar man?” he’d ask, before guaranteeing plenty of mackerel, properly prepared, to take home for the barbeque that night.

So you can sit back in the garden, eat and drink your fill while listening to Fats Domino’s rousing rendition of Reds Sails in the Sunset as the spectacular bright orange rays illuminate the skyline above the hills of Donegal.

On days like these, where else would you want to be?

Me & Mrs Jones is the North Coast’s only authentic boutique, luxury, lifestyle hotel. The most unique and attractive in its area, the quirky-modern hotel decor has been carefully chosen and boasts a sense of space and opulence throughout.

From 'Not So Standard' Double Rooms, to King Twin Suites, each room has been individually designed. The hotel bar & restaurant i s o p e n d a i l y s e r v i n g a p l e t h o r a o f d e l ic i o u s d i s h e s , l o c a l l y sourced. Reservations are available and advised at busy times

Me & Mrs Jones now serves Afternoon Tea daily between 12noon - 4pm, with reservation.

Afternoon Tea is all homemade and locally sourced

2020 Packages

Sleepy Sundays Enjoy Dinner in our Restaurant, followed

by Bed & Breakfast w i t h a l a t e c h e c k o ut at 12noon (Valid Sundays) from £140 per room

Romantic Retreat Arrive in your room to a chilled bottle of prosecco, followed by Dinner in our Restaurant and an overnight stay with Breakfast. (Valid daily) from £185 per room

PORTSTEWART SPECIAL FOCUS

WHY I LOVE PORTSTEWART Ulster Tatler speaks to Olivia Menary, Assistant Manager of boutique hotel, Me & Mrs Jones.

What do you love most about Portstewart?

The people. Since moving to Portstewart at the start of 2018 I have met so many wonderful people through both working in the hotel and from just being out and about down the promenade. We have so many small business owners in the town with a range of products and services and it’s great that the community constantly support one another.

Are there any hidden gems in Portstewart?

There are loads of hidden gems in Portstewart, as mentioned above there are a lot of small businesses and the effort and individuality that goes into each shop make for a wonderful days shopping. My personal favourite is ‘Stone Boutique’, a fashion boutique with a range of top quality clothes, shoes and jewellery. Another is ‘A Broader Picture’, a beautiful homeware store with everything you need!

What does Me & Mrs Jones have to offer the area?

Me & Mrs Jones also caters for all needs; whether it be an Ulster Fry for breakfast or a catch up coffee with friends, a quick bite for lunch/ dinner or a night out celebrating with tasty cocktails and good food.

At Me & Mrs Jones, we have tried to bring new elements to the busy coastal town, including our fabulous Afternoon Tea which is available daily (with a reservation, as it’s all made fresh in house). We try to source as much of our produce as possible from the local area, supporting local businesses and really promoting what the North Coast has to offer. Our Beer Garden; nestled in the centre of the hotel, it is the perfect sun trap for those warm sunny days in Portstewart - we also welcome dogs to the Beer Garden, so it’s the ideal stop for a bite to eat or a drink when out for a walk. Located in our Beer Garden is our Moroccan Room, which is a private room that can be hired for parties and events seating up to 60 people.

and Google Join Forces Northern Ireland based Zymplify says new partnership with Google will enhance its customers’ experience.

Fast growing software as a service (SaaS) company Zymplify announced an exciting new collaboration with Google that sees Google Ads directly integrated into Zymplify’s cutting-edge marketing automation and B2B lead generation platform.

Zymplify was invited to participate in Google’s Technology Partner programme due to their unique buyer intent based approach to marketing and sales automation that ensures customers get a high-volume of quality B2B leads immediately.

Google’s Technology Partner programme is designed to assist and promote the most innovative companies within key technology sectors. As an official Google Partner on this programme, Zymplify will enjoy significant support from Google in the integration of their products and services with the Zymplify platform.

Today, Zymplify has launched its much anticipated

The Google Strategic Partnerships team on a recent visit to Zymplify’s Portstewart HQ. Camille Deniau and John Lojek - Google. Michael Carlin (CEO) and Jemma Irwin (CMO) - Zymplify. Digantika Mitra - Google.

Google Ads integration that enables customers to create and manage all their Google Ads campaigns right from the Zymplify platform. This important addition not only delivers an enhanced customer experience, but provides additional value for money.

“We’re excited to have joined the Google Technology Partner programme and to be working directly with Google on this Google Ads integration. They are the market leader in global online advertising, helping businesses worldwide drive increased return on their investment,” said Michael Carlin, CEO at Zymplify. “Through Zymplify, customers can now create, track and optimise their Google Ads campaigns in one easy-to-use solution that also meets their sales and marketing needs.”

“Our collaboration with Google has truly enriched the service we offer,” said Jemma Irwin, CMO at Zymplify.

“We greatly look forward to introducing even more

208

new features and product integrations as part of our ongoing participation in the Google Technology Partner programme.”

“We are pleased to have Zymplify on board as a Google Partner,” said Adrian Blockus, the Head of Channel Sales for Google in the UK and Ireland. “Zymplify has demonstrated the product knowledge, technical expertise and drive to help their customers build online success through Google Ads. We look forward to building a very successful partnership together.”

Learn more about Zymplify’s cutting-edge solution at www.zymplify.com/google 28 The Promenade, Portstewart, BT55 7AE T: 028 7087 8244

PORTSTEWART SPECIAL FOCUS

Mine & Hers

STONE

028 7083 4460 91 The Promenade Portstewart

BOUTIQUE

STOCKISTS OF LADIES FASHION, FOOTWEAR AND ACCESSORIES A ONE STOP SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.

Homemade food “the old fashioned way”

Hot Food • Deli Counter • Coffee • Teas • Office Catering Follow us on Facebook

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Ulster Tatler KEEPING YOU IN THE PICTURE

call us now on 028 9066 3311 or email: sales@ulstertatler.com.

Stone Boutique 29 The Promenade, Portstewart Co Londonderry BT55 7AE

Tel: 028 7083 4144

3 MIGHTY COURSES ONE MAGNIFICENT CLUB

117 Strand Road, Portstewart, BT55 7PG WEB: portstewartgc.co.uk TEL: +44 (0) 2870 832 015 EMAIL: reception@portstewartgc.co.uk 209

UlsterTatler

NEW BUSINESS

S

start up

tarting your own business can be daunting, but taking a leap of faith can pay off in the long run. Every business has to start somewhere, so in this edition of Ulster Tatler we take a look at the steps you can take to make your business dreams a reality. Often the first step is knowing what to do next or who to seek advice from, but once you have overcome this first hurdle, everything else should fall into place if you have the passion and determination to follow it through.

1. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses Starting your own business should allow you to do something you love and something you are good at. Can you do something creative, or are you more strategic? Can you turn what you see as a hobby or a passion into a full time career?

If you are lacking in certain skills, for example computer skills, then you may need to consider hiring someone specific in those skills to join your team. Do you have the personality traits to manage a team of people, or would you prefer to work by yourself?

2. Set your business apart Coming up with a strong business plan/idea is vital. There may be thousands of businesses in your chosen sector, but how will you make your business stand out from the rest? It could be offering a service or product that is cheaper or you could create something innovative and new to put a unique

spin on something that already exists. You need to consider your target market, this could include understanding the age demographic or the location of your customer base (will you stay local or make it global?).

3. Find your location There can be a range of locations where you can set up your business. For example you may need to buy or rent premises to set up a shop, or perhaps your business is going to be online only. If you are just starting out, a great way to find your feet and network with other businesses is by renting an office space in a shared office building. These buildings will have support teams and facilities set in place that you can benefit from.

4. Create a business plan Creating a business plan allows you to set out clear objectives and end goals. It gives you the motivation to hit targets and map out where you want the business to grow.

5. The paper work The paper work and the legal stuff is unavoidable, it has to be done. This can include setting up your business bank account, understanding tax or registering your company. You may also need to seek advice from a legal advisor to draw up contracts or advise you on business insurance.

6. Source funding You don’t need to have millions in the bank to set up a business but you will need a small pot of funding to get you started. Some people many be fortunate to have help from friends and family, just remember to pay them back to avoid fall outs. Other options include obtaining business grants from government bodies or applying for a business loan that you can pay back once the business starts generating revenue.

210

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212

NEW BUSINESS START UP SPECIAL FOCUS

CHAMPIONING NEW BUSINESSES

Ulster Tatler talks to Nadine Kearns from Champion Designs.

How did Champion Designs come about?

Champion Designs is an innovative, Belfastbased Irish dancing costume design business. We work closely with our customers to design and create bespoke, high end, championship Irish dancing costumes. The business originated from an interest and a

talent that came together that just seemed to make sense. I was an Irish dancer myself from the age of six and then worked in a company that made Irish dancing costumes for eleven years. In that time, I managed to build up my experience and skill base by getting involved in all aspects of the business. I then found that more and more the customers were asking to deal with me specifically, which was obviously great for my confidence. I always knew I was artistic and very strong creatively and I really wanted to concentrate on my key interest, which was design of the costumes. I felt the time was right to follow my own ambitions and vision, so with strong family support (especially from my mum) word got out and here I am today.

What are your ambitions for your buisness?

I obviously want to continue to succeed and to grow further, but I want to grow in a controlled way. A key aspect of our business, which I want to maintain is our focus on bespoke design and on the personal touch regarding design and service. If we grow too much, we would become just a factory churning out “off the peg” dresses. We want to get our name recognised locally, nationally and internationally. Over the next business quarter, we will be expanding our capabilities through investing in new machinery and employing another seamstress so that I can concentrate on what I really enjoy most – designing costumes!

What do you like about having office space in the Innovation Factory?

There is a very good atmosphere, and everyone is helpful and friendly. Although all the businesses are very different it is an environment in which we all support one another and it helps to know that others are in the same boat and on the same wavelength.

The team at Innovation Factory really help our business to innovate and grow; from availing of the on-site business mentoring, through to the team at reception who greet our customers and make them feel welcome.

This is very important as it helps us to make a good first impression.

For someone who has lots of ideas for a new business but isn’t sure where to start, what advice would you give them?

You have to love what you do so focus on an area that inspires you and you can take direct action on. I drew on an area that I knew well and was passionate about. It has been that love for Irish dancing that drives me and is reflected in my understanding of my customers’ needs and the creation of the bespoke designs. Be prepared to dedicate yourself to your business and not to be afraid of trying new things out and saying yes to opportunities.

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ROSEMARY CONNOLLY SOLICITORS – PUTTING CLIENTS FIRST Rosemary Connolly Solicitors, with offices in Warrenpoint and at Elmwood Avenue in Belfast, will shortly celebrate 25 years in business providing expert, accessible and cost-effective legal advice to a broad range of clients encompassing public bodies, corporations, small to medium sized enterprises and individuals.

The Practice has an established reputation for excellence in the field of employment equality law and has been associated with several of the most prominent equality cases to emanate from this jurisdiction.

The firm has a strong track record of success in representing Claimants and Respondents at Employment Tribunals as well as in the higher Courts, and is resolutely focussed on achieving the best possible results for clients.

We act for a broad range of businesses providing timely advice on all employment and equality law matters including: • Contracts of Employment • Handling disciplinary and grievance procedures • Defending unfair dismissal and/or unlawful discrimination claims • Restrictive Covenants • Compromise Agreement • Protected disclosures • Working Time Regulations And we can provide training for management on: • Conducting work place investigations • Conducting equal pay audits • Dealing with long-term sickness absence

We are accredited by ISO 9001 and were delighted recently to be awarded the Diversity Chartermark under the auspices of Legal Island.

Rosemary Connolly, our Principal, is a Legal 500 and Chambers UK ranked leading lawyer in the field of employment and equality law.

T: 028 4175 3121

E: rosemaryconnolly@solicitorsni.net 214

www.solicitorsni.net

Watch this space...

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NEW BUSINESS START UP SPECIAL FOCUS will be at risk I order to pay it off) but require much less paperwork to set up compared to limited companies and don’t require as many owners meaning decision mak9ng can be easier and there are less people to split profits with.

Limited companies (LTD and PLC) have limited liability (meaning that only the money they have invested in the company will be at risk if bankruptcy occurs and their personal assets will be protected). However, some limited companies are required to disclose personal and corporate information on public record (including accounts when PLCs exchange on the stock market). They must also be officially incorporated at Companies House and required to pay a registration fee for this.

kick start your business When you are starting your business, one of the most important aspects is deciding on the type of ownership. Sole traders and Partnerships have unlimited liability when it comes to borrowing (meaning that if the business falls into debt, their private assets

In order to get financial help from anywhere, the person will most likely want to see your business plan. Try to make this as detailed as possible in order to show that you are serious about starting up your business.

Your plan should include: • Your overall mission statement (aims of the business) and how you plan to achieve this).

• Factors that can impact your business. (tip: try using the PESTLE (political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental) analysis to cover all aspects.

• Awareness of competitors and how you

Mallusk Enterprise Park (MEP) are launching the first ever co-working space in Newtownabbey on 1st June 2020. Emma Garrett, CEO of MEP, tells us, “This innovative space will accommodate the growing trend in which people can rent desks within a professional working environment on a daily basis, without any long term commitment”. A co-working user can in essence book a desk and work without distraction. Parking, heat, electricity, super-fast broadband and free access to tea/coffee are all included in the price. It is however, easy to scale up this office space if your team grows by switching to a serviced office or indeed a separate unit within the park itself. MEP is currently home to 60 + businesses that offer everything from professional services to manufacturing.

Co-working spaces are also beneficial when launching your business as this type of environment provides you with endless opportunities to network with other business people both newly established and existing.

A daily hot-desk pass costs just £20* per day and a monthly pass starts from only £99* (Plus VAT) *prices subject to change

Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, BT36 4GN T: 028 90838860 E: emma.garrett@mallusk.org W: www.mallusk.org 216

can differentiate from them.

• Financial forecasts (lenders will definitely want to see this).

• Sales plans Help from Invest NI Invest NI is the regional business development agency and part of the Department for the Economy. They provide strong government support for business by effectively delivering the Government’s economic development strategies in order to boost the local economy and attract new investors.

Invest NI can help support your business through a combination of financial support, tailored guidance and information.

To become an Invest NI customer, you should show that you are aiming to grow, sell outside NI and contribute to the country’s productivity. The criteria for this is to achieve at least 25% of sales outside of NI and reach a turnover of £250K per annum within 5 years.

NEW BUSINESS START UP SPECIAL FOCUS

HOLDFAST LIMITED COMPANY REGISTRATION

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• Northern Ireland, UK and ROI Company Formations • Provision of Registered Office Address in N.I. England, Scotland and ROI • Company Updates

• How much is the paper chase costing your firm/company?

• Now is the time for you to digitize your records!

• Using our software, you’ll never have to keep another invoice/receipt.

We have moved to our new office at: 6b Upper Water Street, Newry Co. Down BT34 1DJ Tel: 028 3026 8403 Email: holdfast@formyour.company Website: www.formyour.company 217

THE SCENE

Susan Bowman, John Nugent and Frank McCloskey.

Derrick Black and Colin Richardson.

Far e w e ll recepti on For joh n nu g e nt A farewell reception was held in the Main Site Tower, Queen’s University Belfast, recently to mark the retirement of John Nugent, Head of Estates Development and Deputy Director of Estates. John joined the University in July 2001 and oversaw many significant University projects. The event was attended by John’s family, colleagues, both past and present, and representatives from many external companies with whom he worked during his time at Queen’s.

Gerry Gray, Suzanne McCoy and Michael Jordan.

Ciaran Fox and Damien Toner.

John Nugent (middle) with family left-right Jonathan, Arlene, Anne and Chris Nugent.

Wilma Fee and Sharon Benson.

Brian Martin, Paul Maginn and David Wilson.

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Frank McCloskey and Dawson Stelfox.

Column / Know the Law

Amy Hamilton

Amy Hamilton is a Solicitor in our Belfast Litigation team.

Strict liability for many in-flight accidents This month, Amy provides advice on the aftermath of in-flight accidents.

With the winter months bringing gloomy weather and dark evenings, it is hardly surprising that many of us will be booking flights to sunny destinations to beat the winter blues.

Sadly and irrespective of the purpose of your flight, in-flight accidents can unfortunately occur.

Did you know that in many cases, the airline will be strictly liable, which means that if you can prove you have been injured on a flight, by an ‘unexpected’ or ‘unusual event’ happening that is external to the passenger, the airline will be liable. This does not apply to injuries caused as a result of the passenger’s physical reaction to flying e.g.

Deep Vein Thrombosis or hearing loss.

Common in-flight injuries include trips and slips, injuries caused by falling luggage from overheard lockers, trolley accidents or unexpected turbulence, burns/scalding injuries from hot drinks or suffering illnesses after being exposed to a food allergen or even food poisoning. This could further extend to injuries caused during take offs and landings, or when boarding and disembarking the aircraft.

Most Airlines operate internationally, so who should you look to for compensation?

1. International Flights - A world-wide system of standards and rules for air travel operators, and in particular, rules regarding the liability for the death or injury of passengers.

The ‘Montreal Convention’ (“the convention”) is the key piece of legislation governing the liability of airlines and to date 122 countries have signed up, including all members of the European Union, the USA, China and Japan.

Claiming under the convention is relatively straightforward, and under the convention, an action for damages against the airline can be brought in:

• The country where the airline is domiciled.

• The airline’s principal place of business.

• The country where the contract was made and the airline has a place of business.

• The country where the passenger has their permanent place of residence and the airline operates passenger carriage services in that country. This being the case, actions can be readily brought in Northern Ireland.

2. Domestic Flights – For any flights between EU member states, or even if the flight is domestic within that EU member state, the airline is subject to Regulations 889/2002 and 2027/97 which in effect makes the airline subject to the provisions of the Montreal Convention as above.

For any flights within non-EU countries, it may not be as simple.

While some may adopt the above approach, and incorporate the provisions of the Montreal Convention, there may be countries where the domestic law of that country differs and a detailed understanding of the domestic law of that country would need to be carefully considered.

Under the Montreal Convention an action against an airline must be brought within two years, however this may vary if the matter is not covered by the convention and instead may depend on the jurisdiction in which the case is brought.

For further information email Amy at amy@worthingtonslaw.co.uk or telephone 028 9043 4015.

FOR ALL YOUR LEGAL NEEDS n n n n n n n

T: 028 9043 4015 E: info@worthingtonslaw.co.uk

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n n n n n n n

Debt Recovery Education Law Personal Injury Probate and Wills Residential Conveyancing Matrimonial and Family Law Medical Negligence

Offices in: Belfast, Newtownards

www.worthingtonslaw.co.uk 219

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman John Smyth and Mayoress Mrs Carol Smyth with Rev Campbell Dixon MBE, Mrs Jacqui Dixon, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Chief Executive and Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE.

YOUNG TALENT HONOURED AT THE MRS JOAN CHRISTIE CVO OBE, LEGACY BURSARY SCHEME AWARDS Theatre at The Mill hosted the inaugural Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE, Legacy Bursary Scheme Awards evening on Thursday 30 January.

Young musicians, volunteers and schools from the Borough were the first to receive this special bursary. The Legacy Bursary Scheme was created by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in recognition of the significant work Mrs Joan Christie carried out during her role as Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for the County of Antrim, a role from which she retired in June 2019 after 11 years of service.

The Bursary is for the support of young people, helping them to Believe, Achieve and Succeed.

The Council has set up Bursaries for £1,000 each across three categories, young musicians, young volunteers and their club/ organisation and a horticultural project for schools promoting the education of children with learning and or physical disabilities.

Jodie Gourley from Monkstown Boxing Club and Emma Gault from Clare Hares Disability Rugby Team were awarded the Young Volunteer Bursary whilst Oliver Gunning and Niall Black were the winners in the Young Musician’s category. With the help of local sponsors Colemans Garden Centre, Pentlands, Beechgrove Nursery, RD Mechanical, Northscapes and Avenue Recycling, all five special education schools in the Borough were awarded the Bursary for a horticultural project.

Musical Maestro Peter Corry rounded off this evening of celebration with powerful renditions of A Million Dreams and Go the Distance. www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE, Marcus Christie, Stephanie Adair and Jennifer McDonald.

Dr. Catherine Scully, Ruth Surgenor, Gillian Randall and Sarah Gilmore Jordanstown School.

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE, Paul Dinsmore Antrim Youth Information and Counselling Centre presenting bursary awards to Jodie Gourley Young Volunteer (Monkstown Boxing Club) and Amy Stewart Youth Worker (Monkstown Boxing Club).

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE and Peter Corry with Young Musician Bursary Award Winners Niall Black and Oliver Gunning.

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Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman John Smyth with Ben Gibson, Hope Baxter and June McCormick, Riverside School Antrim.

Theatre at The Mill Home Spun Youth Theatre Group.

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE .

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman John Smyth and Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE with with Roz McFeeters Principal Hill Croft School and local sponsors David Adrain RD Mechanicals, Gordon Dunlop Beechgrove Nursery and Rodney Milliken from Northscapes.

Deborah Logan and Lynn Bruton, Vice Principal Thornfield House School.

Young Musician Bursary Award Winner, Niall Black age 18 from Antrim performing on the Marimba.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman John Smyth, Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE and Claire McCollum.

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE and Peter Corry with Young Musician Busary Award Winner Oliver Gunning, age 15 from Ballyclare.

Mrs Joan Christie CVO OBE, Paul Dinsmore (Antrim Youth Information and Counselling Centre) with Emma Gault Young Volunteer (Clare Hares Disability Rugby Team) Sarah Gilmore and Ballyclare Rugby Club President Clifford Gilmore receiving their bursary awards.

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Awarding Zara Janahi with the Eastside Award for Young Person of the Year sponsored by George Best Belfast City Airport is Stephen Patton.

Awarding Esther O’Kelly, Kerri Hannah and Jonathan Brennan of Vault Artist NI with the Eastside Award for Contribution to the Arts sponsored by Phoenix Natural Gas is Gillian Orr.

THE ANNUAL EASTSIDE AWARDS The sense of celebration was almost palpable at the fourth annual Eastside Awards in association with George Best Belfast City Airport. Recognising all that is good about East Belfast and hosted

by Tara Mills, the emotionally charged evening climaxed with the announcement that former Tor Bank School Principal Colm Davis OBE would receive the coveted Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by East Belfast Enterprise.

After the awards ceremony, legend Terri Hooley entertained guests with a special DJ set. www.eastsideawards.org

Awarding Cheryl Hoey of Ashfield Girls High School with the Eastside Award for Teacher of the Year – Post Primary, sponsored by Belfast Live is Chris Sherrard.

Awarding Lindy Forster of Greenwood Primary School with the Eastside Award for Teacher of the Year – Primary, sponsored by Belfast Live is Chris Sherrard.

Awarding Michael Briggs of East Belfast Community Capacity & Leadership Programme with The Titanic Eastside Award for Innovation sponsored by Titanic Belfast, Titanic Foundation and Titanic Quarter is Maeve Moreland.

Awarding Davina Kelly and Pamela Frazer of Dementia Friendly East Belfast with the Eastside Award for Best Community Project sponsored by The Urban Villages Initiative are Minister Diane Dodds and Junior Minster Declan Kearney.

Awarding Rowena Frazer with the Eastside Award for Carer of the Year sponsored by Wolseley UK is Graham Hamilton.

Awarding Linda Ervine of Turas with the Eastside Award for Community Champion of the Year sponsored by Belfast Harbour is Joe O’Neill.

Awarding Daniel Glover and Elizabeth Crossan of Pacem with the Eastside Award for Employer of the Year sponsored by Fleet Financial is Damian Campbell.

Awarding Kate Finn, Lorna and Ed Smith of Left Field with the Eastside Award for Sports Initiative of the Year sponsored by Millar McCall Wyle is Ashley Black.

Awarding Colm Davis OBE with the Eastside Award for Outstanding Contribution is Jonathan McAlpin of East Belfast Enterprise, also pictured is Colm’s wife Victoria.

Awarding Chris Armstrong of EastSide Tourism with the Awarding Aga Piela of Breeze Eastside Award for Tourism Fitness Studio with the Eastside Experience sponsored Award for Business Start-Up

by TitanicBelfast, Titanic sponsored by Belfast City Foundation and Titanic Quarter Council is Cllr Carole Howard. is Sarah Hamilton-Cardy.

Awarding Joanne Cameron and Richard Robinson of Ronnie’s with the Eastside Award for Taste Experience sponsored by We’re Sure is Derek Quinn.

Awarding Ivor Reid of Hosford Health and Wellbeing Project and East Belfast Mission with the Eastside Award for Excellence in Health and Wellbeing sponsored by Solv Group Ltd is Stephen Kane.

Awarding Zara Janahi with the Eastside Award for Volunteer of the Year sponsored by East Belfast Mission is Rev Brian Anderson.

Awarding Stephen Jackson of Parr Facilities Management Ltd with the Eastside Award for Eastside Award for Business Growth sponsored by Ulster Bank is Keith Thompson.

Column / Know the Law

Lorraine Keown Lorraine Keown is an Associate Director in Cleaver Fulton Rankin with significant experience in dealing with financial separation.

Guiding you through Financial Separation This month, Lorraine Keown offers advice on matrimonial agreements and separation.

Separating from your partner is a difficult and emotional situation so making sure you get the right advice early is important. It is possible to deal with financial matters without needing to go to Court; things can be discussed and agreed through drafting a matrimonial agreement.

Often when it comes to agreeing the terms of a matrimonial agreement, the most common and significant assets to be dealt with are the matrimonial home and any pensions. Up to date valuations of property and other valuations such as those for a business or investments, can be sought on a joint basis between the parties by an independently agreed valuer to reduce costs.

Once an agreement is reached regarding the valuation of any property, there are options for this property to be sold with proceeds split between the parties. This can be transferred either in full or in part to a party or for example with the matrimonial home, a right to occupy can be granted to one party with ownership remaining joint. Considering whether your new financial situation will allow you to maintain any property which may be subject to a mortgage is important.

Pensions are often viewed as being more complicated. Commonly, a cash equivalent transfer value (CETV) is obtained to determine the cash value placed on pension benefits. There are then a number of options for how this is dealt with, such as a pension sharing order, earmarking/ attachment orders or offsetting.

Arrangements with regards to maintenance will also be written into the agreement to provide security. Provision is also made within the matrimonial agreement that neither party can make any future claim against the others’ assets or interests unless specifically allowed for, and reassurances apply against any party making a claim against the others’ estate in the event of death.

The matrimonial agreement can then be made an order of the Court once divorce proceedings are lodged and approved.

Where an agreement is not possible and it is necessary to issue Court proceedings in order to reach a financial settlement, then an application to resolve the financial position can be lodged once divorce papers have been lodged.

This process requires the sharing of financial information and obtaining joint valuations and reports if agreed. However, in this process each party sets out their position by way of a sworn affidavit.

The Court will review the case regularly to ensure the sharing of documents is complied with and to address any issues. If the parties cannot reach an agreement on the financial settlement, the Court will list the matter for a first hearing. If this does not achieve a resolution, the matter will be listed for final hearing, and whilst negotiations will generally continue if no agreement is reached, the Court will make a decision on what the final order should be. The financial arrangements will then be carried out in accordance with the terms of this final order.

At the end of a separation, your renewed financial position should always be considered regarding your estate planning. We can assist you in updating your Will once matters are concluded.

At Cleaver Fulton Rankin, we strive to ensure our clients are kept informed at every stage, and that their needs are safeguarded and accurately represented during financial separation.

Lorraine Keown is an Associate Director in the Private Client team of Cleaver Fulton Rankin. Should you wish to make an appointment or speak to us, please telephone Lorraine on 028 9024 3141 or email l.keown@cfrlaw.co.uk

At Cleaver Fulton Rankin we recognise the importance our clients attach to providing financial security for themselves and their families.

Our Private Client team offers practical advice and sound guidance, based on many years’ experience, in the following areas:

• • • • •

Professional executor and trustee service Wills Trusts Administration of Estates Nursing Care issues

•

• •

Enduring Powers of Attorney and Office of Care & Protection matters Family Law Residential Conveyancing

Cleaver Fulton Rankin - 50 Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7FW | T: 028 9024 3141 | W: CleaverFultonRankin.co.uk | @ CFR_Law

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UT

LOOKING BACK

MARCH

1974

Each month we look back at what was making headlines in past editions.

This month we revisit our MARCH 1974 issue.

1

2

3 5

4 1. Mr and Mrs Ed Curran with Mrs S. Roulette and Mr. Harry Roulette pictured at the Belfast Telegraph reception to mark the retirement of Mr. Eugene Wason as editor.

2. In the March 1974 issue we reviewed the Skoda 110L saying, “the space and comfort of all who travel in the 110L will meet most of the needs of the most discerning motorist”.

3. Mr D. Workman, Mrs D. Torrens, Miss B. O’Donnell and Mr D. Torrens pictured at the Ballymoney RFC 21st anniversary celebrations.

4. Mr Neville Johnston, Mr John Baxter, Mr N. Orr, Mrs Rosemary McColgan and Mr D. Bell at the opening reception of the 1974 Sportsman Show at the King’s Hall, Balmoral.

224

5. Guests including Tony Bevan, Jean Brown, Philip Brown, Lesley Murdoch and Margaret Mackenzie at the Ulster Society Women Artists wine and cheese party at the Dunadry Inn.

You choose how to live it.

Rebecca H, WW member Lost 1st, 1lb

028 9042 6812 ww.ie WW logo is the trademark of WW International, Inc. Š 2019 WW International, Inc. All rights reserved.

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