Featured Event - 2/34 - Ulster Tatler

MND Heroes and Lady Mary’s Trust Raise the Bar with Joint Fundraiser

Posted on June 17, 2024June 17, 2024 by admin

The Motor Neurone Disease Association NI and Lady Mary Peters Trust are set to host a spectacular Gala Dinner, drawing inspiration from former British indoor high-jumper Debbie Marrs and World Police and Fire Games volunteer Raymond Hill. This charitable event, designed to raise essential funds for both organisations, will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the elegant Magheramorne Estate near Larne.

Debbie Marrs, Lady Mary Peters and Raymond Hill. Back row: Jane Allen from Magheramorne Estate with her daughter Sara – Head of Guest Experience.

Debbie Marrs, a former Mary Peters Trust athlete and the 1988 British Indoor High Jump Champion, was diagnosed with MDN in recent years. Last December, she raised £8,500 through an indoor triathlon event at Holywood’s Bannatyne Health Club. Excited about the upcoming Gala, Debbie said, “This event will significantly raise the profile of motor neurone disease in Northern Ireland and support people like myself and our families. My daughter Megan and I have benefited from Mary Peters Trust funding and I’m thrilled that the funds raised will be equally divided between those wonderful charities.”

Raymond Hill, a Larne local with a lifelong involvement in sports, was diagnosed with MND in May 2021. He has played a crucial role in organising the World Police and Fire Games and now serves as a committee member for the NI branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Raymond emphasised the importance of raising MDN awareness, stating “Our Magheramorne Estate event will support critical research and provide necessary assistance to those affected by MDN.”

Debbie Marrs, Raymond Hill and Lady Mary Peters.

The Gala Dinner will feature a reception, dinner, auction, guest speakers, and musical performances. Funds raised for MND will support specialist nurses, research bursaries, and various NI programs, including regional roadshows and support events for those impacted by MND. Similarly, funds for the Mary Peters Trust will aid young athletes in Northern Ireland, helping them access top facilities and coaching.

Lady Mary Peters expressed her enthusiasm for the event saying, “There is a natural synergy between our two charities, and I’m pleased that we’re coming together for this standout gala in the beautiful Magheramorne Estate. Raymond and Debbie are true inspirations, and we are grateful to Jane Allen and her team for their support.”

Tickets for the Gala Dinner are priced at £65 each or £600 for a table of ten. To book, contact Gillian Hetherington at gillian@marypeterstrust.org

Jane Allen with her daughter Sara at Magheramorne Estate.

A Truly Independent Whiskey

Posted on June 13, 2024 by admin

Dragon Claw Whiskey was founded in 2020 by world Re-owned Tattoo Artist Chris Crooks owner of White Dragon Tattoo Studio in Northern Ireland. Living much of his youth in America, travelling and specialising in Japanese Tattoos for almost two decades brought together a fusion of styles to Dragon Claw Whiskey. A truly independent Whiskey, where every aspect, design, cask selection, distillation and every creative element of the brand is done by Chris Crooks himself. Dragon Claw draws from that rich artisitic past. Chris’s passion for quality and necessity for detail brings together the history of Irish and Japanese artwork in Dragon Claws design.

Merged with his love of the rich history of the Scots Irish and their role in the history and essence of American bourbon makes Dragon Claw a unique Whiskey within. It started with a simple passion for whiskey. Using a number of old bourbon recipes or corn, Rye and Malt Barley. A very small batch of whiskey from an even smaller pot still, running hot in the hills of Holywood County Down , first moonshine, and pretty dam good even before it made its way into those virgin American Oak barrels. Ageing to a golden rich whiskey. Litre by Litre, year by year. That was the beginning that gave birth to Dragon Claw Whiskey

Dragon Claw is brought to you in a limited edition series of almost only 400 bottles with each special release. Each one bringing its own character to the collection before the release in 2025 of the Dragon Claws new permanent edition. This father’s Day you can join Dragon Claw with its 3rd release of 5, the PX-sherry cask release. Available to buy now at the Vineyard, Ormeau Rd. Belfast. This is truly a unique and fiercely independent Whiskey.

To Learn more about the brand follow Dragon Claw on Instagram.

Www.instagram.com/dragonclawwhiskey

Unique Father’s Day Experience: Tour McConnell’s Distillery

Posted on June 12, 2024 by admin

Looking for last-minute Father’s Day gift ideas? This year, surprise the special man in your life with a truly memorable experience – a tour of McConnell’s Distillery. Recently opened at the historic Crumlin Road Gaol, McConnell’s Distillery offers a perfect blend of rich history, exquisite craftsmanship, and exceptional whiskey.

Located in the heart of Belfast, McConnell’s Distillery boasts a legacy that dates back to 1776. The tour takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing the meticulous whiskey-making process perfected over centuries. From selecting the finest grains to mastering the art of distillation, this tour provides an in-depth look at what makes McConnell’s Irish Whisky unique, all while enjoying quality time with loved ones.

Guests will enjoy a guided walkthrough of the distillery’s state-of-the-art facilities, observing the intricate steps involved in creating McConnell’s renowned whiskies. The tour concludes with a tasting session, where visitors can savour the distinct flavours and aromas that define McConnell’s Irish Whisky.

In addition to the tour, visitors can relax at McConnell’s bar, enjoy a coffee and delicious baked goods in the charming café, or browse the extensive gift shop. The shop features stylish clothing, captivating books on the history of Irish whiskey, an array of whiskey-related accessories, and of course, McConnell’s Signature Blend and Sherry Cask whiskies.

For a unique and distinguished Father’s Day gift, purchase tickets for the McConnell’s Signature Tour online here: McConnell’s Distillery Tickets

Last minute gifting ideas? Celebrate Father’s Day with something unique: A Tour of McConnell’s Distillery

Posted on June 11, 2024June 12, 2024 by admin

This Father’s Day, give the special man in your life a gift that’s as distinguished and memorable as he is – a visit to McConnell’s Distillery, which recently opened at the iconic Crumlin Road Gaol. Offering a unique blend of rich history, exquisite craftsmanship, and exceptional whiskey, McConnell’s Distillery tour tickets are the ideal way to celebrate and honour father figures everywhere.

Nestled in the heart of Belfast, McConnell’s Distillery is renowned for its storied legacy that dates back to 1776, when McConnell’s Irish Whisky was founded. The distillery tour is a journey through time, showcasing the meticulous process of whiskey making that has been perfected over centuries. From the selection of the finest grains to the art of distillation, visitors will gain an in-depth understanding of what makes McConnell’s Irish Whisky truly exceptional, whilst spending time invaluable time with their loved one.

The tour includes a guided walkthrough of the distillery’s state-of-the-art facilities, where guests can witness the whiskey-making process up close. The experience culminates in a tasting session of McConnell’s finest whiskies, allowing visitors to savour the distinct flavours and aromas that set this whiskey apart.

At McConnell’s Distillery, visitors can enjoy a drink at McConnell’s bar, or a coffee and delicious baked goods in their charming cafe. For the perfect souvenir, visitors can explore McConnell’s extensive gift shop, complete with stylish clothing, captivating books on the history of Irish whiskey, an assortment of whiskey-related accessories and of course, McConnell’s Signature Blend and Sherry Cask whiskies.

Tickets for the McConnell’s Signature Tour can be purchased online here: https://intl.mcconnellsirishwhisky.com/mcconnells-distillery/

Celebrating Success! Over 200 NOW Group Participants Graduate

Posted on June 5, 2024 by admin

Participants from across Northern Ireland Graduate from NOW Group Training Academies

OVER 200 NOW Group participants from across Northern Ireland are celebrating this week after graduating from a range of training and employment academies.

Dedicated to supporting those with learning difficulties and autism into sustainable employment, this was the largest graduation ceremony in the NOW Group’s history with a total of 214 graduates receiving certificates for completing training in core industries including, warehousing, digital, retail, tourism, catering and hospitality and cyber security, to name but a few.

Participants received their certificates on Tuesday (June 4^th) during a special ceremony at Belfast City Hall, which was hosted by BBC’s Barra Best and attended by the High Sheriff of Belfast, Councillor Sammy Douglas, NOW Group Chair, John Gordon and NOW Group participants and their families.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Maeve Monaghan, NOW Group CEO, expressed heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates. “Our training academies are designed to equip participants with tangible skills, experience and qualifications, paving the way for their integration into the workforce and helping them to make meaningful contributions to their communities,” comments Maeve.

“We are immensely proud of our graduates and remain committed to supporting more individuals with learning difficulties, autism and other neurodiverse conditions in their journey towards fulfilling careers.”

Maeve adds: “NOW Group is proactively partnering with businesses to address recruitment challenges and provide inclusive solutions for individuals facing employment barriers, and it is thanks to our current partners and organisations, across Ireland, whom we work closely with to run many of our academies and who are helping to lead the way in promoting accessibility, diversity and inclusion.”

In the past year, NOW Group has supported over 1,550 participants through its initiatives with 250 participants going on to gain paid employment. Along with the 12+ bespoke academies, the NOW Group offers soft skills programmes and in the past year, has run over 1,000 courses.

In 2024, NOW Group is aiming to support a further 200 people with learning difficulties into employment through various academies that are currently operating in the hospitality, tourism, ICT, horticulture, and cyber security industries.

For more information on the NOW Group, visit the website: www.nowgroup.org.

Pictured at the NOW Group graduation is Broadcaster, Barra Best, with Maeve Monaghan, CEO At NOW Group and NOW Group participants, Harry Murray (left), Claudia Beatty and Matthew Gray (right).

Pictured at the NOW Group graduation is Maeve Monaghan, CEO At NOW Group with Broadcaster, Barra Best, and NOW Group participant, Claudia Beatty.

Pic credit: Kelvin Boyes

Down Ladies Netball Celebrates 40 years

Posted on May 31, 2024May 31, 2024 by admin

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

Sarah Scullion with twin daughters Victoria and Georgia from Downpatrick

Twins Georgia and Victoria Scullion from Downpatrick

Down Senior Team ‘Mona Baird Shield’ Winners 2024

For move coverage see our June Issue of Ulster Tatler

Get Ready to Vote For Your High Street Hero

Posted on May 31, 2024 by admin

The Northern Ireland public is being encouraged to vote for their favourite local independent retailer and high street in the High Street Hero Awards which have been launched for 2024 at Parliament Buildings for Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA.

Voting for High Street Heroes 2024 will run from Monday 1st July to Wednesday 31st July 2024. It is the perfect opportunity to recognise those independent retailers who are going above and beyond to serve the community and ensure that the local high street is still a thriving place to shop and socialise.

Whether your High Street Hero is your favourite butcher, baker or barista, they will all be celebrated in this showcase of the brilliant work of independent retailers.

Votes can be cast across 13 different categories with shoppers and customers asked to name their favourite convenience store, deli, butcher, off licence, among others.

A record 12,000 votes were cast last year to determine who was crowned Northern Ireland’s retail elite last year. The Co. Antrim town of Ballymoney was named High Street of the Year for 2023 in a tight race with Belfast’s Shankill Road and Newtownards.

Launching the awards for 2024, Paddy Doody, Vice Chair Retail NI, said: “Independent retail is the lifeblood of communities right across Northern Ireland and our annul High Street Heroes NI campaign represents the biggest celebration of our thriving local retail sector. Our awards are different – they are a public vote, with no judges and it is local consumers deciding who wins.

“We’re gearing up for another huge showcase event and a massive celebration of the individual businesses who are the beating heart of our many villages, towns and cities.

“The awards are open to local retailers right across Northern Ireland – Portaferry to Pomeroy, Newry to Newtownabbey and Strabane to Scarva and will identify this local independent retailers who are taking a lead. Whether it’s a local butcher that’s a cut above the restoration fashion retailer with exceptional style, it’s time to vote for your favourite now.”

Speaking at the launch of the awards, Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA, said: “Independent retailers play a crucial role in their communities, supporting jobs and boosting the local economy and keeping high streets in their towns, villages and cities vibrant. I congratulate Retail NI on this excellent initiative to promote traders who are the heart of their communities and I encourage members of the public to nominate and vote for their local high street heroes.”

The hugely successful High Street Hero NI Awards is a joint initiative powered by Retail NI and supported National Lottery operator Allwyn, SSE Airtricity and Roam Local NI.

Allwyn’s Chief Executive Officer, Andria Vidler, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting High Street Heroes NI – highlighting, recognising and celebrating the huge contribution that independent retailers make to local high streets across Northern Ireland. Independent retail is, quite simply, the lifeblood of our local communities. And our 40,000+ retail partners who sell The National Lottery in their stores make a vital difference in helping raise an average of £4 million every day for National Lottery-funded projects.

“So, it means a great deal to me and everyone at Allwyn to be able to acknowledge all the hard work, passion and perseverance shown by every store. We wish every retailer the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating both the winners and nominees.”

Andrew Greer, General Manager of SSE Airtricity Northern Ireland, said: “For us a SSE Airtricity, supporting local communities is cornerstone to our mission. Retail NI’s annual High Street Hero Awards set a benchmark of excellence, celebrating the businesses and individuals who go above and beyond to serve their communities. We are delighted to be involved in this initiative.

“With over 300,000 domestic and business customers across Northern Ireland, our commitment to supporting local is important. Recently, SSE Airtricity launched a €5 million all-island Generation Green Community Fund with the aim of delivering meaningful community benefits. We encourage everyone to get nominating and look forward to showcasing the best that Northern Ireland has to offer on the high street.”

Andrew Bartlett, Founder of Roam Local NI, said: “Roam Local NI is delighted to support the High Street Heroes campaign for 2024. Celebrating local business is what we are all about, as showcasing the finest in independent retail means that everyone can avail of the best that Northern Ireland has to offer, the local high streets are kept thriving with footfall and people can make the most of the unique offerings and best deals on their doorstep.”

The 13 High Street Hero Award categories are:

Best Butcher
Best Coffee Shop
Best Convenience Store
Best Deli/Bakery
Best Fashion Retailer
Best Forecourt
Best Generalist Retailer
Best Healthcare Retailer
High Street of the Year
Best Homeware Retailer
Best Off Licence
Best Independent Retailer Employee
Overall Independent Retailer

For more information, visit retailni.com.

Retail NI Vice Chair Paddy Doody and Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald launch the 2024 High Street Hero Awards at Parliament Buildings.

Echlinville Distillery Launches Inaugural Single Estate Whiskey

Posted on May 30, 2024 by admin

The Echlinville Distillery (Northern Ireland) is launching Echlinville – The Beginning, the inaugural whiskey release from Ireland’s first Single Estate distillery.

Echlinville – The Beginning features two field-to-glass whiskeys distilled exclusively from barley grown, harvested and floor malted on the distillery farm. Every step of the production process – from mashing and fermenting the grains, to casking and maturing the spirit, to filling and labelling the bottles – has been completed on-site at the County Down distillery.

This complete Single Estate story makes Echlinvile – The Beginning unique among Irish whiskeys.

Single Pot Still and Single Malt

Echlinville – The Beginning featured a pair of exceptional seven-year-old double distilled Pot Still and Single Malt whiskeys. The two bottle release is limited to 750 sets in a stunning presentation box. It will be available from The Echlinville Distillery and selected retailers from 11am on Saturday 1st June priced £350 / €395. Purchases are limited to two per person.

Echlinville became the first Single Estate farm distillery in Ireland when it began production in 2013. It was one of the first in a new wave of distilleries that led the beginning of the Irish whiskey renaissance.

Speaking about the launch of Echlinville – The Beginning, The Echlinville Distillery owner, Shane Braniff, said: “This is a momentous day for everyone at Echlinville as we unveil our inaugural Echlinville Single Estate Whiskey release. A whiskey that is inherent to our land. A whisker’s that values provenance, community, tradition and authenticity.

“For more than a decade we have been on this journey to create whiskey that is rooted in this place we call home – the beautiful Ards Peninsula on the shores of Strangford Lough.

“Echlinville – The Beginning is a reflection of everything that is great about this small corner of Ireland – the fertile soil, temperate micro-climate, saline air and the people who crafted these whiskeys from the ground up.”

People, Place and Provenance

He continued: “The Ards Peninsula has long been regarded as one of the finest barley growing regions in Ireland. Local farmers would have historically supplied barley to Ards Maltings, which provided premium malt to some of the country’s biggest distilleries and breweries.

“The are has a proud, but sometimes forgotten, whiskey heritage. We are delighted to have revived lost traditions, restoring malting and distilling in the Ards Peninsula to create a whiskey that once again has a true sensitivity to the place where it is made.

“Echlinville Whiskey has provenance, character and flavour that can be found nowhere else. This is a unique place with unique people and unique spirit, and that is at the very heart of our Single Malt and Pot Still whiskeys.

“This release is in culmination of a decade of hard work, passion and perseverance by a dedicated team of people, unwavering in their commitment to conceive a spirit from the ground up, rooted in locality and crafted with patience and authenticity.

“We believe in doing things the right way, not the easy way. We floor malt our barley by hand, as our whiskey forefathers would have done. We distil slowly, maximising copper contact to achieve a balance between complex character and delicate flavour. We dunnage mature our whiskey the traditional way on an earthen floor. This approach earned us a reputation for excellence and the respect of our friends and colleagues within the Irish whiskey family. We look forward to sharing this milestone with them.”

Echlinville – The Beginning

Patiently curated from a batting of carefully selected seven to nine year old whiskeys distilled from barley grown, harvested and floor melted on the distillery farm.

Single Malt Still Whiskey – 7 Years Old – Double Distilled – Bourbon Cask

With classic Pot Still body and spice, Echlinville’s inaugural Pot Still release showcases the distillery character. Sweet vanilla cream soda, fresh kiwi, papaya fruits and fragrant pine notes with menthol, leading to toasted almonds, ginger and warming white pepper spice, perfectly balanced and enveloped in luxurious, mouth-coating Pot Still creaminess.

Single Malt Whiskey – 7 Years Old – Double Distilled – Bourbon Cask & Virgin American Oak Cask

Full-bodied and bold, the first Single Malt release speaks of Echlinville’s distillate and its origin. Soft orchard fruits, fresh citrus, herbal notes and wild meadow honey. Then citrus fruits, peach, blood orange, red berry, latter coffee, chocolate and salted almonds, giving way to a finish of cedar, clove, tobacco, ginger and cinnamon spice.

Echlinville – The Beginning will be available to purchase from The Echlinville Distillery and selected retailers including Celtic Whiskey Shop, James J. Fox Dublin, Carry Out Killarney, Green Acres of Wexford, Irish Malts and Weisshaus Shop.

For more information, visit: www.echlinville.com or follow @echlinville on social media.

Joanne’s Fashion Pick of the Week

Posted on May 30, 2024 by admin

UT Woman Editor, Joanne’s Fashion Pick of the Week:

Organic Double Cotton Contrast Embroidered Maxi Dress, £159 – The White Company.

This light-weight dress is perfect for the summer months ahead (as long as we get the weather we are hoping for), or, if you are jetting off on holiday, you can pack it in your case for a look that can go from day to night.

Organic Double Cotton Contrast Embroidered Maxi Dress, The White Company.

Buckingham Palace Garden Party Marks 200 Years of Saving Lives at Sea

Posted on May 29, 2024 by admin

Volunteers from Bangor RNLI attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace on Thursday 23rd May in celebration of the charity’s 200th anniversary.

The RNLI 200th Anniversary Garden Party was held by HRH The Princess Royal, accompanied by Vic Admiral Sir Tim Laurence and HRH The Duke of Kent.

The Duke of Kent has been President of the RNLI since 1969. Sir Tim Laurence is also a Vice President of the RNLI and former Deputy Chair.

The garden party brought together around 2,500 of the RNLI’s long-serving volunteers, staff and their families and also featured an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat in the palace grounds.

Among those attending from across the charity were Kevin Baird, John Bell, Captain Davy Eccles MBE, Andrew hedge, Johnny Gedge, Ewan Rathbone-Scott, Kyle Marshall and Gavin Mitchell from Bangor RNLI Station.

Speaking ahead of the garden party, RNLI Chief Executive, Mark Dowie, said: “We are incredibly honoured that His Majesty The King has granted permission for the RNLI 200th Anniversary garden Party to take place at Buckingham Palace in celebration of 200 years of saving lives at sea.

“Our hosts, The Princess Royal, The Duke of Kent and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, have been hugely supportive of our charity over many decades and it will be a huge honour and privilege for many of our volunteers and staff to meet them.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of the RNLI and I am looking forward to being able to thank them personally, along with their equally dedicated families and our long-serving staff members, for their courage and commitment to saving lives.”

Head of Volunteering at the RNLI, Donna McReath, said: “I would like to thank each and every one of our incredible volunteers.

“We couldn’t do what we do without their vital support and the time and effort they generously dedicate in a wide variety of roles, from lifesaving crew to fundraisers and those who volunteer in our shops, museums or by sharing our water safety messaging.

“They are all lifesavers and this special Garden Party is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the joy and impact of volunteering for the RNLI. We are always looking for new volunteers to join our charity to help us continue saving lives at sea.”

Since the RNLI was founded on 4th March 1824, the charity has saved more than 146,277 lives – this equates to an average of two lives saved every day for 200 years.

Bangor RNLI Volunteers with their partners at Buckingham Palace.

Bangor RNLI Volunteers Kevin Baird, Johnny Gedge, John Bell, Gavin Mitchell, Ewan Rathbone-Scott and Andrew Gedge at Buckingham Palace.

Bangor RNLI Volunteers Johnny Gedge, John Bell, Gavin Mitchell, Ewan Rathbone-Scott and Andrew Gedge.

Victoria Launches Best Dressed at Armagh Show

Posted on May 29, 2024 by admin

All roads lead to the picturesque Gosford Forest Park, Markethill on Saturday 8th June for the return of the popular Armagh County Show. Victoria McDowell (pictured) of Spoilt Rotten Boutique will be keeping her eye out for style as she is set to judge the ‘Best Dressed’ competition at the show this year. Established in 2011 and based in Markethill, Spoilt Rotten Boutique offers the finest range of dresses, footwear and casual wear. Victoria will have a number of ladies modelling her fashion at the show.

Whether you go in wellington boots or high heels, Armagh County Show promises to be a fantastic day out for all the family!

Visit www.armaghshow.com or @armaghcountyshow on Facebook for more information.

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