Down Royal has announced Friends of the Cancer Centre as its official charity partner for 2024. The partnership will see Friends of the Cancer Centre hold collections at thirteen of Down Royal’s scheduled race meetings in 2024 in aid of its work supporting people with cancer across Northern Ireland. Pictured (L-R) are Ciara Bainbridge, Corporate & Events Fundraising Officer at Friends of the Cancer Centre and Susan McCartney Racing and Event Operations Manager at Down Royal.
The racecourse will continue its longstanding tradition of supporting local causes this year by partnering with the leading cancer charity, dedicated to supporting local patients and their families.
The partnership will see Friends of the Cancer Centre hold collections at thirteen of Down Royal’s scheduled race meetings in 2024 in aid of its work supporting people with cancer across Northern Ireland.
CiaraBainbridge, Corporate & Events Fundraising Officer for Friends of the Cancer Centrecommented: “Without support from local businesses like Down Royal we would be unable to continue our vital work which is making a real difference to thousands of patients and their families. This includes our funding of additional members of staff across cancer services and providing practical support, like financial grants, which can help make a difficult time a little easier.
“In addition, the funds raised will allow us to continue our investment in locally led cancer research through our partnership with the Northern Ireland Cancer Trials Network and the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research at Queen’s University, which is helping find new and improved ways to treat many different types of cancer and giving hope to many.
“We are extremely grateful to the team at Down Royal and its racegoers for their vote of support. We’re asking the public when they see a Friends of the Cancer Centre volunteer at the fabulous race days to think of those across NI who are facing the most difficult of circumstances and give all they can. Thank you to everyone for the opportunity to become Down Royal’s official charity partner for 2024.”
Speaking about the collaboration,Emma Meehan, Chief Executive of Down Royalsaid “Friends of the Cancer Centre is well-known for its unwavering dedication to improving the lives of cancer patients across Northern Ireland and we are delighted to be able to support a cause which is so close to the heart of both our team and our valued customers. We look forward to a great year partnering with the charity’s team to raise as much as we can for this incredibly important cause.”
Belfast Harbour has unveiled a specially commissioned portrait of Stena Line owner and Chairman, Dan Sten Olsson, at their Harbour Office in Corporation Square to celebrate the significant contribution the Swedish ferry operator has made to the Port and Region over the last three decades.
The unveiling comes as Stena Line marks a record year for freight volumes on its Belfast routes with approximately 587,000 units being transported in 2023.
Painted by local artist, Ken Hamilton, the portrait was commissioned by Belfast Harbour to acknowledge the impact that Dan Sten Olsson and the investment of Stena Line has made to the development of Belfast Harbour in recent years.
Stena Line moved to Belfast Harbour in 1995 and since then, the Company has invested significantly in developing and improving its Irish Sea operations. The Irish Sea’s leading ferry company operates three routes from Belfast Harbour with combined passenger and freight services from Belfast to Cairnryan and Belfast to Liverpool, as well as a dedicated freight only route from Belfast to Heysham. A total of seven Stena Line ships move in and out of Victoria Terminals 1/2 and 4 in Belfast Harbour on a daily basis with the port also serving as Stena Line’s Irish Sea headquarters.
Dan Sten Olsson, Owner and Chairman of Stena Line, said:
“I am honoured to be presented with a portrait by Belfast Harbour Commissioners. Over the years, Stena Line has developed a strong relationship and affinity with Belfast and the local community. Personally, I did my first business in Belfast over 50 years ago and have been committed to Northern Ireland ever since. Northern Ireland is a strategically important region for Stena Line and our solid partnership with Belfast Harbour has been instrumental in our construction of one of our largest passenger and freight hubs in our European network. We look forward to what the future brings for the routes and to working with the harbour to continuously improve our services for our customers.”
Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners said:
“Stena Line is one of Belfast Harbour’s most important strategic partners and plays an integral role in the life of Belfast Harbour and our local economy. We considered it would be a fitting tribute to recognise the contribution and commitment that Dan has made personally to the Company’s growth in Belfast with a portrait of him to be displayed in the Harbour Office. Dan has been a great friend to Belfast Harbour and the City and Region over the last 30 years. We look forward to the continued success of our partnership as Stena Line expands and develops its freight and passenger services in the future.”
In 2023, Stena Line announced that it is making a multi-million pound investment in two hybrid ‘NewMax’ RoRo vessels for the Belfast – Heysham service which will boost capacity by 80%. Construction on these ships commenced in China earlier this month, with the first scheduled to join the route in Autumn 2025.
Paul Grant, Trade Director, Irish Sea, Stena Line said,
“Our Belfast routes have broken freight records in 2023 and we’re proud to keep delivering market leading freight and travel solutions. We’re constantly trying to improve and give customers the service levels they want and deserve. The strong relationship with Belfast Harbour has helped us facilitate growth and looking forward to 2025, we’re making preparations for our new ships on the Belfast-Heysham service, which will provide a significant boost in capacity.”
Stena Line is the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, with the biggest fleet providing up to 238 weekly sailings offering the widest choice of routes including: combined passenger and freight services from Belfast to Cairnryan and Liverpool, Dublin to Holyhead, Rosslare to Fishguard, Rosslare to Cherbourg, in addition to the dedicated freight only route from Belfast to Heysham and the new Dublin – Birkenhead service which is due to start in February.
Stena Line is one of Europe’s leading ferry companies transporting 6.5 million passengers with 39 vessels across 17 routes in Northern Europe operating 27,000 sailings each year.
PICTURE OF SUCCESS: Belfast Harbour has unveiled a specially commissioned portrait of Stena Line owner and Chairman, Dan Sten Olsson, to celebrate the significant contribution the Swedish ferry operator has made to the Port and Region over the last three decades. The unveiling comes as Stena Line marks a record year for freight volumes on its Belfast routes with approximately 587,000 units being transported in 2023. Painted by local artist, Ken Hamilton, the portrait was commissioned by Belfast Harbour to acknowledge the impact that Dan Sten Olsson and the investment of Stena Line has made to the development of Belfast Harbour in recent years. Pictured at the unveiling of the portrait at the Belfast Harbour Office in Corporation Square are (l-r) Cpt Kevin Allen (Harbour Master), Belfast Harbour, Joe O’Neil (CEO), Belfast Harbour, Andy Kane (Regional Ports Operation Manager-Irish Sea North), Stena Line, Dan Sten Olsson, Dr Theresa Donaldson (Chair), Belfast Harbour Commissioners, Michael Robinson (Port Director), Belfast Harbour, Paul Grant (Trade Director), Stena Line, Niclas Martensson (CEO), Stena Line, and Maurice Bullick (Finance Director), Belfast Harbour.PICTURE OF SUCCESS: Stena Line owner and Chairman, Dan Sten Olsson, stands alongside a specially commissioned portrait that Belfast Harbour has unveiled a at their Harbour Office in Corporation Square to celebrate the significant contribution the Swedish ferry operator has made to the Port and Region over the last three decades. The unveiling comes as Stena Line marks a record year for freight volumes on its Belfast routes with approximately 587,000 units being transported in 2023. Painted by local artist, Ken Hamilton, the portrait was commissioned by Belfast Harbour to acknowledge the impact that Dan Sten Olsson and the investment of Stena Line has made to the development of Belfast Harbour in recent years.
Translink has extended the entry deadline for its ‘Connections’ photography exhibition until 2nd February 2024.
The competition has already attracted interest from local students in universities and colleges across Northern Ireland as well as amateur photography groups and members of the general public with an interest in photography. Translink is now encouraging more people across NI to enter by capturing moments of people making real and meaningful connections made possible by Translink services.
Translink by the nature of its work brings people and communities together every day and enables connections with family and friends, connections to work, connections to events or key life moments. Translink’s Connections photography competition aims to celebrate and promote the importance of human connections across society.
Encouraging photographers to enter, Translink’s David Cowan, said:
“We know our passengers have their own stories, adventures and moments of connection using public transport. This competition aims to capture these stories that illustrate the value and importance of public transport.
“As well as having the potential to win prizes, the selected images will feature in a Life Better.Connected photo exhibition, which will travel across Northern Ireland giving a significant platform for local photography enthusiasts to show off their work.”
To find out more including details on prizes, a creative brief and key entry criteria visit Connections Photo Competition (translink.co.uk)
The magnificent Culloden Estate was the venue for the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s annual dinner. Over 200 solicitors attended the dinner, including newly admitted solicitors, and guests enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with colleagues.
Guests heard speeches from the Society’s new president, Darren Toombs, and His Honour Judge Philip Gilpin, who reflected on the value of the legal profession to the community.
During his keynote address, the Society’s new president welcomed the newly admitted solicitors and outlined his passion for supporting those wishing to become solicitors in Northern Ireland. Representatives from the Society’s charity of the year, the ‘Boom Foundation’, also spoke about their work and the year ahead.
Full Coverage in the January Ulster Tatler – on sale now.
Press Eye – Darren Toombs at the Law Society of Northern Ireland Annual Dinner at the Culloden Hotel.Press Eye – Leona Rankin pictured at the Law Society of Northern Ireland Annual Dinner at the Culloden Hotel.Press Eye – Brian Archer pictured at the Law Society of Northern Ireland Annual Dinner at the Culloden Hotel.Press Eye – Darren Toombs and guests at the Law Society of Northern Ireland Annual Dinner at the Culloden Hotel.Press Eye – Madison Bowyer and Darren Toombs.Press Eye – Emma Hunt and Maeve Fisher.Press Eye – Caroline Glover, Laura McCullough, Jane Reaney and Ryan Carson.
AbbeyAutoline, celebrating its 50th anniversary, has raised a staggering £150,000 for Northern Ireland Hospice as part of parent company Prestige Insurance Holdings’ longstanding association with the local charity.
Staff from across the business helped raise the funds for the charity through a variety of company-wide initiatives including a Give As You Earn (GAYE) staff contribution scheme.
The dedicated employees also co-ordinated a host of events as part of their ongoing fundraising drive such as sponsored walks, coffee mornings, and casual Fridays.
Hitting the £150,000 milestone coincides with Northern Ireland’s largest insurance broker embarking on an ambitious programme of community activities to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The hugely successful programme included staff pledging 50 hours of volunteer support to Northern Ireland Hospice, aimed at benefiting the important work the charity does in caring for adults, children, and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.
Staff dedicated their time by taking on a variety of voluntary roles across a number of the Hospice shops throughout Northern Ireland.
Kind-hearted members also gave up their time to support a series of bucket collections, as well as tending to the gardens at the charity’s Adult In-Patient Unit at Somerton House and the Children’s In-Patient Unit at Horizon House.
Julie Gibbons, Managing Director of AbbeyAutoline commented: “We are incredibly proud to mark our 50th anniversary by helping parent company, Prestige Insurance Holdings, reach the impressive target of £150,000 in funds raised for Northern Ireland Hospice.
“This achievement is testament to the dedication and generosity of the AbbeyAutoline staff and their colleagues across Prestige Insurance Holdings’ group of businesses.
“We want to thank each and every one of them for their ongoing financial contribution through the staff contribution scheme and a host of fundraising initiatives that have gone a long way to supporting the charity’s vital work in caring for thousands of babies, children, and adults across Northern Ireland.
“Our AbbeyAutoline staff have also rolled up their sleeves this year, taking on various voluntary roles at the Hospice shops and supporting important initiatives like bucket collections and garden tidy-ups to raise additional funds for the charity.
“We’ve always believed in making a real and lasting difference to the communities we serve, and we’re delighted to have been able to contribute in this way in our 50th year in business.”
Northern Ireland Hospice offers specialist respite, symptom management and end of life palliative care to people who need its help the most. Its multi-disciplinary team provides care within its adult and children In-Patient Units as well as caring for patients in their own homes in the local community.
Amanda Connolly, Corporate Fundraiser at Northern Ireland Hospice, added: “We are so grateful for the continued support from AbbeyAutoline for Northern Ireland Hospice.
“It’s only through the support of our local business community that we can continue to provide specialist palliative care across Northern Ireland to over 4,000 babies, children, adults and their families each year. A big thank you to AbbeyAutoline staff from the bottom of our hearts!”
AbbeyAutoline’s 50th anniversary programme of activities focused on giving back to the communities that have played a crucial role in the company’s success over the past 50 years.
It included the hugely successful ‘50k in May’ challenge, where over 120 staff members raised £4,000 for AWARE NI by walking, running, biking, or hiking 50km during May.
A ‘50 Ways of Giving Back’ initiative supported 50 local charity or voluntary organisations with practical assistance, ranging from volunteering at food banks to rejuvenating local community gardens, and cleaning up local beauty spots.
AbbeyAutoline has raised more than £150,000 for longstanding charity partner NI Hospice, a local charity which offers specialist respite, symptom management and end of life palliative care to 4,000 infants, children and adults each year across Northern Ireland. Pictured left to right are Wendy Close, Human Resources Director, AbbeyAutoline, Bonnie MacRae, Corporate Fundraiser, Northern Ireland Hospice and Julie Gibbons, Managing Director, AbbeyAutoline.
Treat friends and family this year and win a lavish holiday in Dubai or £5000 in cash
The luxurious Lough Erne Resort will make one person’s Christmas even more special this year with its annual Magic of Christmas Giveaway.
As part of its now highly anticipated Christmas voucher launch, the much-loved lakeside location is offering anyone who spends £100 or more on its popular vouchers the chance to win a relaxing stay at the Resort as well as the holiday of a lifetime for two people in Dubai, complete with a host of indulgent extra touches or £5,000 in cash.
The winner will get to destress after the festive season in the ultimate Yuletide dream as part of an unforgettable experience that includes a three-night stay at Lough Erne Resort where they can immerse themselves in a super-relaxing 60-minute treatment in the resort’s award-winning Thai Spa, enjoy an indulgently traditional afternoon tea, served against the spectacular backdrop of the Fermanagh Lakelands and savour a fine dining experience like no other in the highly acclaimed Catalina Restaurant.
After a revitalising three days in the enchanting countryside, guests will be whisked off to the magical ‘Venice of the Gulf’, Dubai, where they will spend seven nights in a five-star resort on a bed and breakfast basis with all flights and transfers included. Alternatively, the winner can choose the £5,000 cash.
This amazing prize is valid for entry up to this Christmas Eve and will be enjoyed between April and June 2024, guaranteeing some cherished memories.
Plus, for a limited period, customers can enjoy a complimentary £15 voucher with every £100 spent on gift vouchers.
With a wide choice for family and friends, Lough Erne Resort vouchers are the perfect present. Available for use across the resort to stay, spa, golf or dine they will be the most coveted gift under the tree. The Christmas gift vouchers can be delivered by post or email using the email address of your choice and are valid for 36 months.
Lough Erne Resort is the perfect destination for romantic escapes, relaxing retreats, and family getaways. With newly exquisite, refurbished guest rooms and further enhancements to the luxury Resort underway, this is the perfect time to gift a visit.
Monetary gift vouchers are available from £25 to £1,000+ to best suit the occasion and can be used right across the resort for an unforgettable luxury experience. Customers will receive one competition entry for every £100 voucher purchased.
All these unique gifting opportunities are available now at: www.lougherneresort.com. T&Cs apply.
County Down woman is crowned bottlegreen Best Dressed on Ladies Day
Down Royal saw fashion fanatics from across the island of Ireland dress to impress in their autumnal frocks and fascinators at this year’s ‘Best Dressed’ competition sponsored by premium soft drinks brand bottlegreen.
Ivona Moore from Kilkeel was awarded the highly acclaimed ‘Best Dressed’ title on Ladies Day which took place on day two of the renowned Ladbrokes Festival of Racing.
The judging panel for this year’s contest included Cool FM Presenter and fashion enthusiast Rebecca McKinney, 2023 Miss Northern Ireland winner Kaitlyn Clarke and Sarah Lawson, Head of Marketing at bottlegreen Drinks, part of The SHS Group.
Following the glitz and glamour of the infamous competition Ivona took home the ultimate ‘Shop, Stay and Spa’ weekend experience generously sponsored by bottlegreen. The package includes a luxurious overnight stay for two at the Culloden Estate & Spa including breakfast, a 50-minute ESPA spa treatment, a bottle of champagne and an eight-course tasting menu with accompanying wine pairings. Ivona will then treat herself to a shopping spree at Victoria Square with a Personal Shopping Experience and a voucher worth £1,000.
Ivona stunned the judging panel with her outfit featuring a striking maroon ensemble with dress from Club L London, co-ordinating headpiece and clutch from CC Millinery, shoes from Mango and coat from NA-KD.
Commenting on her win, Ivona said: “I’m absolutely delighted and quite frankly extremely shocked to be crowned this year’s Best Dressed Lady.
“I have a love for all things fashion and beauty and to be crowned the winner of the ‘Best Dressed’ competition among all these gorgeous ladies is such an honour.
“A huge thank you to all the judges for awarding me with this prestigious title.”
Commenting on this year’s Best Dressed Lady competition Sarah Lawson, Head of Marketing at bottlegreen Drinks and The SHS Group said:“This is the first year bottegreen has sponsored the ‘Best Dressed’ competition and I have been blown away by the spectacle of style we’ve witnessed.
“It was extremely difficult to select an overall winner but the style and elegance of Ivona’s outfit made her stand out as the unanimous choice. Huge congratulations to Ivona on this fabulous achievement and I hope she enjoys her relaxing ‘Shop, Stay and Spa’ weekend treat.
“It has been a pleasure partnering with Down Royal as title sponsor of the ‘Best Dressed’ competition and we’re delighted to have played our part in adding a ‘dash of the extraordinary’ for all the ladies in attendance.”
Kathyrn Holland, Commercial Manager at Down Royal Racecourse added: “The Ladbrokes Festival of Racing is a highly anticipated event both in terms of sport and style in Northern Ireland, and across the two days we have witnessed not only some fabulous fashion, but some outstanding horse racing.
“This year’s ‘Best Dressed’ competition, sponsored by bottlegreen Drinks, showcased some of the best frocks, fascinators and footwear we’ve seen, and Ivona blew the judges away with her sensational style.
“Huge congratulations to Ivona on being crowned this year’s winner and we hope she will enjoy her very deserving prize.”
Ivona Moore from Kilkeel in Co. Down was awarded the highly acclaimed ‘Best Dressed’ title on Ladies Day which took place on day two of the renowned Ladbrokes Festival of Racing. The competition was judged by Cool FM Presenter and fashion enthusiast Rebecca McKinney, 2023 Miss Northern Ireland winner Kaitlyn Clarke and Sarah Lawson, Head of Marketing at bottlegreen Drinks, part of The SHS Group. Pictured (L-R) are Maria McAvoy, Faith Amond, Donna Mullan, Shileen McConville, Emma Murray, Ivona Moore, Rebecca McCausland, Nicole Mallen, Aimee Boyle and Judith Beckett.Ivona Moore from Kilkeel in Co. Down was awarded the highly acclaimed ‘Best Dressed’ title on Ladies Day which took place on day two of the renowned Ladbrokes Festival of Racing. The competition was judged by Cool FM Presenter and fashion enthusiast Rebecca McKinney, 2023 Miss Northern Ireland winner Kaitlyn Clarke and Sarah Lawson, Head of Marketing at bottlegreen Drinks, part of The SHS Group. Pictured (L-R) are Kaitlyn Clarke, Rebecca McKinney, Ivona Moore and Sarah Lawson.Ivona Moore from Kilkeel in Co. Down was awarded the highly acclaimed ‘Best Dressed’ title on Ladies Day which took place on day two of the renowned Ladbrokes Festival of Racing at Down Royal. The competition was judged by Cool FM Presenter and fashion enthusiast Rebecca McKinney, 2023 Miss Northern Ireland winner Kaitlyn Clarke and Sarah Lawson, Head of Marketing at bottlegreen Drinks, part of The SHS Group.
On Wednesday 13th September, UK Minister for Exports, Lord Offord, performed the official opening ceremony at Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock, Belfast.
Lord Offord unveiled a commemorative plaque at the distillery, where whiskey is now being produced for the first time in Belfast since the 1930s.
solv, a leading mechanical and electrical provider in Northern Ireland, is pleased to announce the launch of their new website, providing customers with a cutting-edge platform for all their solutions, ranging from heating services to electrical work, plumbing, and even comprehensive facilities management. With the launch that occurred on Wednesday 16th, solv becomes the sole installer in Northern Ireland for new boiler quoting, as well as offering boiler service and repair appointment bookings with a convenient payment facility, all on a single, user-friendly website.
“At solv, our vision has always been to be trusted by all to do exceptional work for every kind of property. With the launch of our new website, we take a step further in our commitment to delivering easy, expert customer experiences. Through the exclusive launch offer and enhanced features, we aim to make our services more accessible, and cost-effective for all our customers in Northern Ireland.” – Stephen Kane, Managing Director, solv.
Exclusive Launch Offer: Free 1st Year Servicing with Select New Boiler Packages
In celebration of their website launch, solv is introducing an exclusive limited-time offer. Customers who choose select new boiler packages will receive the first year of servicing absolutely free, offering both peace of mind and significant cost savings from the outset.
Enhanced Design and Functionality for an Exceptional User Experience
solv’s new website features an enhanced design, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable browsing experience for users of all ages. The intuitive navigation allows visitors to find the information they need with ease.
Empowering Customers to Save Energy and Troubleshoot Effectively
Beyond meeting the bottom line, solv is dedicated to supporting their local communities and have their best interests at heart, promoting energy efficiency tips and empowering customers to optimise their heating systems. As part of our commitment to sustainability and a greener future, solv encourages customers to explore renewable energy solutions and make informed choices to reduce their carbon footprint. The website also hosts a wealth of FAQ responses, tips, tutorials, and easy troubleshooting guides, offering users valuable insights to save energy and manage their heating efficiently.
Dedicated Landlord Services
Recognising the unique needs of landlords, solv’s new website features a dedicated section outlining the range of services available to ensure compliance with their duty of care. solv is dedicated to supporting landlords in maintaining safe and efficient heating systems in their properties.
About solv
With more than 20 years of expertise in the boiler service industry, solv has earned its position as one of the leading service providers in Northern Ireland. Their mission is to deliver an exceptional experience, from first contact to completion, ensuring customers return again and again for every mechanical, electrical or facilities management service.
Join the Boiler Service Revolution with solv
solv is transforming the way customers book heating services and more in Northern Ireland, setting new standards for convenience and efficiency. Homeowners, businesses, and landlords are invited to explore the website and take advantage of the exclusive launch offer, making heating solutions more accessible and affordable than ever before.
A new show by Joe Nawaz, Five Days, is on at the Court House Bangor as part of the Open House Festival on 30th August before it goes to the Lyric Theatre for four dates in September, and then it goes further afield on tour.
In April 2005, writer Joe Nawaz and his family travelled from Belfast to the wilds of Pakistan on the trail of a mystery. The mystery of how, where and why his father Rab had been murdered there. In this fiercely funny and poignant production Joe will share the difficulties of transporting a body across international lines (easier to pack a poodle), the bizarre odyssey that he and his family took in their quest for truth without even a snippet of Urdu, Pakistani dress sense or cultural smarts. Join Joe as he takes us to the land of his father, where he never felt more Irish, as he sketches some of the history of that country and its unlikely links with Ireland.
Along the way we hear about Pakistani McDonalds, the best way to hold an automatic weapon when you’re offering someone a light, and how much it costs to grab a taxi from Islamabad airport to the Himalayas. Joe also examines his family’s experience living in NI as a mixed-race family juxtaposed with a journey into an unfamiliar place and culture. Interrogating the very blurred lines between factual, personal experience and memory, Five Days is a celebration of family and an exploration of identity in a place where identity is still contentious. Joe has written extensively about growing up mixed-race in NI. In the murky wake of the centenary of NI and current local political disfunction, this show offers a unique perspective on partitions of all kinds.
Joe Nawaz
Joe Nawaz is a writer, performer and critic who lives and works in Belfast.
A former television critic with the Belfast Telegraph, Joe is a regular contributor to radio and television. He has written two live shows, Hey You! and Fake ID which premiered at Belfast Comedy Festival (2016 and 2017 respectively). He co-founded and wrote for Shotglass Theatre, producing new work in unorthodox settings and premiering six new shows (including Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast and Open House Festival Bangor) from 2013 – 2016. Joe wrote and performed the acclaimed one man show Fake ID which toured across Northern Ireland to sell-out audiences (2018-2019). He has contributed two scripts to ensemble productions at the MAC, Belfast – The Love Doctor (Date Show, 2018) & Bricks (for audio play On the Street Where We Live, 2021). He also created a BBC Radio documentary Sticking Out, (nominated for an Irish Radio Award in 2019). Joe performed a couple of nights of his most recent show Small Tales from Talktown, before the pandemic put paid to such public gatherings.
Three employees at Craigavon-based drinks firm United Wines have been recognised for their long service, having worked for the company for a combined total of 60 years. Transport Manager Arthur Watson (left) from Ards, Head of Finance Siobhan McSorley from Donaghmore, and Planning & Transport Supervisor Darren Lynn (right) from Craigavon were each presented with a commemorative plaque and a gift voucher from Managing Director Martin McAuley to mark 20 years’ service at the company’s County Armagh base. Founded in 1985, United Wines, a subsidiary of Heineken Ireland, is one of the biggest drinks distributors on the island of Ireland. Operating from an 80,000 square foot warehouse in Craigavon, with 55 staff on its books, United Wines distributes an extensive portfolio of beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks from all around the world to more than 1,000 bars, restaurants, hotels, off licenses, cash & carries, regional wholesalers and national multiples throughout the country.
Inchmarlo held their Summer Fair on a sunny Wednesday afternoon in June.
Families enjoyed the range of activities on offer including a BBQ, petting zoo, barrel train, art lessons, football training, face painting, boucy castles and a visit from the fire brigade.
