Category: news

Christmas fun for all the family at Winter’s Den

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A packed programme of free festive events and activities is planned for the Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre.

The former Tesco Metro premises has been transformed into a winter wonderland to help people of all ages get into the festive spirit in the run-up to Christmas.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray said: “Following our Christmas lights switch-on event at City Hall which officially started the countdown to Christmas last weekend, the aim of Winter’s Den is to make sure there is plenty of other free entertainment for people to enjoy between now and Christmas.

“Our cultural centre at 2 Royal Avenue is an amazing space with its stunning circular dome and other beautiful architectural features. With its Christmas dressing, it now offers a cosy winter retreat where you can soak up the festive atmosphere and be entertained. Our aim was to create a magical experience for people of all ages.

Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre will host a packed programme of free festive entertainment from now until Christmas including Santa’s Post Office, musical performances, Christmas markets, children’s events, arts and craft workshops, film screenings, tea dances and more. For the full programme and details of other festive events in the city, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/christmas.

“There’ll be lots of entertainment and activities for the little ones over the coming weeks. This includes an opportunity to design a letter to Santa at Santa’s Post Office, which is operated by the elves at Belfast One. The post office includes a dedicated mailbox to make sure everyone’s letter reaches the North Pole in time.

“Between now and 24 December there will be around 30 festive events ranging from free musical performances, Christmas markets, other children’s activities, arts and craft workshops, film screenings, tea dances, ASD/autism friendly workshops and more. So there really is something to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.”

This weekend sees a Frozen-themed event taking place which will feature music from the Snow Sisters and a magical craft workshop from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Saturday 23 November. This is followed by Festive Cultureland from 10.30am-1.30pm on Sunday 24 November where different cultures will be represented at drop-in art workshops, music and dance performances.

Music highlights include the Ukulele Rockstars on Thursday 5 December, traditional music from Belfast primary school groups on 9 and 10 December, festive musical theatre from Antrim School of Music and a concert by South Ulster Sinfonia on Saturday 14 December, and a Christmas concert by Sunnyside Music School and Festive Trad Seisiun by Glengormley School of Traditional Music on Sunday 15 December.

 

There will also be selection of markets for people to enjoy including the Social Enterprise Christmas Market from 3pm to 8pm on Thursday 5 December and the Christmas Belfast Potters’ Market which takes place from 5pm-9pm on Friday 6 December and from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 7 December.

For more info on all the Christmas events coming up at Winter’s Den and across the city, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/christmas.

 

Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre will host a packed programme of free festive entertainment from now until Christmas including Santa’s Post Office, musical performances, Christmas markets, children’s events, arts and craft workshops, film screenings, tea dances and more. For the full programme and details of other festive events in the city, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/christmas.

 

Powdered with Positivity: Record £110K Raised at Pink Run for Breast Cancer Care

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Funds raised will provide nearly 2,000 hours of counselling, bra fittings, and support groups for people on their breast cancer journey.

 

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland has announced a remarkable £110,000 fundraising milestone through its Pink Run breast cancer awareness campaign, proudly sponsored by Dale Farm Sukie.
Now in its ninth year, the sold-out Pink Run welcomed over 1,100 enthusiastic participants to Titanic Slipways for a pink powder-filled day of fun, solidarity, and purpose.
The event’s record-breaking total will fund nearly 2,000 hours of vital breast cancer support services, including counselling, bra and swimwear fitting, and support groups for individuals navigating their breast cancer journey.
Maeve Colgan, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Cancer Focus NI, reflects on the success of the event. She said:
“The Pink Run has always been an instrumental part of our breast cancer awareness month campaign. The fantastic total raised is a testament to the local support and determination of the participants, businesses, and event sponsors who got involved to bring so much positivity to the day and ensuring that the 1 in 8 local women who are on their breast cancer journey won’t have to face it alone.”
She continued: “We also want to give a special thank you to our main Pink Run sponsor, Dale Farm Sukie, who went above and beyond to make the event the success it was. From refreshments at the finish line, to creative costumes, spot prizes and their Wall of Kindness, every touch complemented the event perfectly and helped make the day truly special for those people and families impacted by breast cancer.”
(L-R): Maeve Colgan, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Cancer Focus NI, Caroline Martin, Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications at Dale Farm, Joanne Jones and Mary Catherine McGuinness (client advocates).
Sharon Campbell, Head of Marketing at Dale Farm, expressed pride in the company’s involvement:

“At Dale Farm, it’s always been our mission to share goodness in our local communities, and we’re honoured to play a part in the vital work Cancer Focus NI does. The incredible £110,000 raised will undoubtedly make a tangible difference in the lives of local families impacted by breast cancer. Having supported Cancer Focus NI for four years, we were delighted to work together to raise funds for this important cause. The Pink Run was a day of hope, solidarity, and life-changing care—a testament to the power of community coming together for an important cause.”
A familiar face throughout Cancer Focus NI’s Pink Run campaign was Joanne Jones, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 42 years old and bravely shared her own story and experience to raise awareness of the charity’s vital breast cancer services.
Joanne said: “I was absolutely delighted to be a part of such a meaningful campaign and lend my voice to an important cause. I know firsthand the importance of Cancer Focus NI’s breast cancer services and the difference they have made to my life, and countless other women’s lives that I have met through availing of the charity’s services. It was so special to share in such a positive day for an issue that can be incredibly difficult. Running with my daughter, mum and family, along with other women who have their own breast cancer story, was really meaningful and a feeling I won’t forget for a long time.”
Tickets are now on sale for the Pink Run 2025, which will take place on Sunday, 12 October, at Titanic Belfast. Next year marks the event’s 10th anniversary, and to celebrate this milestone, tickets are available for just £10 until 31 December 2024.

Belfast Region City Deal decade-long programme of investment already delivering results

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Today, almost three years on from the signing of the first ever City & Growth Deal for Northern Ireland, Belfast Region City Deal partners visited Stormont to share how the decade-long programme of investment is already delivering results, creating jobs, and leveraging further private sector investment.

With one project already operational, two in construction phase, eight projects at design phase, four with planning approvals, and three skills assessments completed, the Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment is firmly in delivery phase.

Speaking at the event, Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “I want to congratulate everyone involved in the Belfast Region City Deal. There has been fantastic progress so far, with over half the projects already in delivery.

“The funding from City and Growth Deals and the Complementary Fund will see the Belfast Region benefit from revitalised public spaces, innovation hubs with additional office spaces and improved transportation links. In addition, a continued focus on inclusivity and social value will help make the wider region a better place to live and work and I look forward to seeing all the projects continue to develop.”

Chair of the Belfast Region City Deal Executive Board, John Walsh added: “We set out to deliver a decade of opportunities when the Belfast Region City Deal was signed almost three years ago, and today, it was great to share the significant progress that’s been made, thanks to the strength of our partnership between the UK Government, NI Executive, six councils, two universities, Further Education colleges, and of course the private sector.

“We’re pleased to see other Deals in Northern Ireland getting started – and I look forward to working together with our colleagues to share good practice and strengthen the NI economy. We’re now fully into delivery mode in the Belfast region, and it’s fantastic to see momentum continuing to build on our capital projects. But today’s event isn’t just about bricks and mortar – there’s a raft of positive impacts already being made and created – in terms of skills pathways and talent development, creating new and better jobs, and connecting people to these opportunities. Social inclusion is at the heart of the Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment – and the private and third sector are already benefitting from a range of high value contracts. True partnership will always deliver more than the sum of its parts.”

(L-R): Marie Ward, Chief Executive, Newry Mourne and Down District Council, Lord Mayor of Belfast Micky Murray, , Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Chair of the Belfast Region City Deal Executive Board, John Walsh.

Professor Declan Keeney, Chief Executive at Studio Ulster, said: “Studio Ulster, located at Belfast Harbour Studios on the North Foreshore, is one of the first major projects delivered thanks to the Belfast Region City Deal co-investment. It represents a game-changing investment in Northern Ireland’s creative and digital future. As one of the most advanced virtual production facilities globally, it combines cutting-edge technologies unmatched anywhere else in the world. The investment positions Northern Ireland at the forefront of the screen and gaming industries on a global stage. And through Ulster University’s Screen Academy, we have a pipeline for the next generation of creative talent needed to excel in this rapidly evolving sector. And by bringing all these things together with workforce training, we are creating unparalleled opportunities for growth, innovation, and exciting jobs of the future.”

Sam Turner, Chief Executive, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) said: “Investment in AMIC will help future-proof Northern Ireland’s outstanding manufacturing sector – by bringing together some of the biggest and best academic brains in advanced manufacturing with more than 20 of the region’s top manufacturing businesses. Together, they’re designing and specifying what we’re calling The Factory of the Future. AMIC will accelerate levels of innovation and collaboration between industry and researchers and allow Northern Ireland to compete at the forefront of the global manufacturing industry. We’ve already recruited 20 staff and two major private sector firms have located alongside us at Northpoint in Newtownabbey, so we’re already seeing a cluster forming.”

Marie Ward, Chief Executive, Newry Mourne and Down District Council said: “The Belfast Region City Deal is proof of what partnership and collaboration can deliver. Six councils are pulling together with key partners to leverage investment and a host of economic opportunities which wouldn’t otherwise have been available. This region will now act as the exemplar for the other NI regions embarking on their City and Growth Deals. The BRCD programme of investment is helping to deliver on the Programme for Government because it’s more than just buildings – it’s about skills, jobs, and modern, forward-looking industries which will keep young people fully invested in a future in Northern Ireland.”

Dr Joanne Stuart NI Tourism Alliance said: “The Belfast Region City Deal stands to not only strengthen our tourism offering across the region, through exciting and innovative tourism attractions such as Belfast Stories, The Gobbins and Mourne Mountains Gateway, but it will also revitalise our towns and cities by building on our wonderful cultural and heritage assets such as Carrickfergus Castle and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, reconnecting Bangor to the sea and building the night time economy in Newry, so that communities across the region will benefit all year round.

“Belfast Region City Deal has unlocked investment that will sustain and grow jobs in travel, tourism, and hospitality. The projects funded through the Deal will both support tourism partners’ vision to attract more visitors to Northern Ireland and present a fantastic tourism proposition that encourages them to stay longer and spend more while they’re here.”

Those present heard how instrumental the Belfast Region City Deal is in future-proofing Northern Ireland’s economic capabilities, developing its tourism offering, providing better connections across the city and region to opportunities, and creating more and better jobs for people living here. The Belfast region extends all the way from Mid and East Antrim, across to the tip of the Ards Peninsula, down to Newry and Mourne and everywhere in between.

More information on delivery to date on the Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment is available at www.belfastregioncitydeal.co.uk and you can join in the conversation using #BRCityDeal on X.

 

(L-R): Professor Declan Keeney, Chief Executive at Studio Ulster, Marie Ward, Chief Executive, Newry Mourne and Down District Council, Chair of the Belfast Region City Deal Executive Board, John Walsh, Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Dr Joanne Stuart NI Tourism Alliance and Sam Turner, Chief Executive, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC).

Bangor RNLI volunteers attend reception at Irish Lights Commissioners Office

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On Wednesday last (13 November) volunteers from Bangor RNLI attended a reception held at the Irish Lights Harbour Commissioners office in Dún Laoghaire.
Christine Beale, Chris Beale and Tom Bell represented the station at the reception hosted by the commissioner and the British Embassy in Dublin to celebrate the RNLI saving lives at sea around the Irish coastline and inland waterways for 200 years.

The event was hosted by Paul Johnston, British Ambassador to Ireland and Irish Lights Chief Executive Yvonne Shields O’Connor and was attended by RNLI Chief Executive Peter Sparkes, RNLI Head of Region Anna Classon, along with numerous RNLI volunteers from all over Ireland.

Speaking on the evening, Christine Beale said: “It was great to enjoy a lovely reception recognising the RNLI’s work over the last 200 years and also to enjoy a catch up with so many volunteers from stations all over the island”.

Irish Lights Commissioners Reception.

Looking back to November 2009

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See below; A selection of social pictures from the Ulster Tatler November 2009 edition.

 

Front cover of the Ulster Tatler November 2009 edition.
People of the Year Awards, November 2009.
MII Clothing re-launch, November 2009.

 

“Biggest coffee morning in the world”, November 2009.

 

Smouldering Black – Blackout fashion, November 2009.

 

Morrow Communications announces partnership with Cancer Fund for Children

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One of Northern Ireland’s leading communications and PR agencies, Morrow Communications, has announced an official charity partnership with Cancer Fund for Children. This remarkable charity provides tailored services to more than 1,500 children and young people each year, offering vital support to families impacted by cancer.
With an ambitious fundraising and volunteering target set for the next 12 months, Morrows is kicking off its efforts by supporting the charity’s Twilight Concert. The event, set to take place on Thursday 21st November in the iconic St. Anne’s Cathedral, will feature a night of captivating musical talent from the charity’s very own Carefree Choir. Morrow’s Managing Director, Kieran Donnelly and his daughter Lucy will be taking to the stage as part of the charity’s choir.
Speaking about the partnership Kieran said:
“We are incredibly proud to support Cancer Fund for Children through this exciting partnership. My family know first-hand, that the invaluable support they provide is a lifeline for so many children and families impacted by a cancer diagnosis, as a company, we are focused on helping them achieve their mission of ensuring no child in Northern Ireland faces cancer alone. Our ‘Belong’ employee engagement programme is committed to giving back to our community by leveraging our skills, experience, and resources to make a meaningful impact. On both a personal and professional level I believe this partnership is an excellent fit, and I am genuinely excited about what we can achieve together.”
Morrow Communications staff pictured with Cancer Fund for Children’s Emma Bannon.
Emma Bannon, Partnership and Philanthropy Executive at Cancer Fund for Children, added:
“We are incredibly grateful to the team at Morrows for choosing Cancer Fund for Children as their charity partner. Our mission is to provide vital emotional, social, and therapeutic support, and this would not be possible without the efforts of companies like them, who go above and beyond to give back to their communities. We look forward to working closely throughout this partnership to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people and families impacted by cancer in Northern Ireland.”
Every week in Northern Ireland, approximately three children and young people are diagnosed with cancer, and statistics reveal that children and young adults affected by cancer are likely to experience mental health challenges compared to their peers.
Additionally, Cancer Fund for Children’s purpose-built therapeutic centre, Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, Co. Down, welcomes 450 families each year, offering respite and support to families impacted by cancer across the island of Ireland. Each year, the charity relies on donations to raise over £3 million to sustain this critical work.
To find out more about Cancer Fund for Children, please visit https://cancerfundforchildren.com/
Morrow Communications Charity partnership team, Laura Magennis, Clare Forster, and Hannah Knox, pictured with Emma Bannon from Cancer Fund for Children.

Journey from Lisburn to Lapland as Magical Walking Tour returns for another Festive Season

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The enchanting “Lisburn to Lapland” walking tour is back for 2024, offering another season of festive fun every weekend from 22 November to 21 December.
Santa’s elves will take you on a journey filled with mischief and magic through the city centre. Along the way you can enjoy hot chocolates and festive treats from a range of local businesses.
The 30-minute show begins at Bow Street Mall and ends at Castle Gardens, where a stunning free light display will delight all ages. The performance truly is a magical family experience that will offer even more holiday cheer after last year’s glittering success. Performances will take place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 4:30pm and 5:30pm, with an extra 6:30pm show on Thursday and Fridays.
The show is produced by Three’s Theatre Company, renowned for its bespoke, site-specific works, led by Anna Leckey who said: “The show was a huge success last year with almost 500 people attending throughout the season, so we’re excited to bring it back and better than ever for 2024. Families will join Principal Elf Elsie and her cousin Sproggy on a playful adventure through the streets of Lisburn, as Sproggy undergoes training for the all-important Naughty and Nice List.
The delightfully mischievous elves are performed by Mary McGurk and Louise Parker (with Holly Hannaway as a stand-in during the busy season). Director of Three’s Theatre Company, Anna, also co-created the acclaimed Shadowdock, which captivated Belfast audiences earlier this year. (Photo credit Studio Kin).
“You can enchant little ones by providing “Nice List” hints during ticket booking, so our elves can personalise their journey, adding a real sense of Christmas magic. Packed with rhymes, silliness and local fayre, the stunning light displays and the brilliance of the gardens promise festive fun for all the family.”
The show is funded by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. Chair of its Regeneration and Growth Committee, Alderman Amanda Grehan said: “This festive show is all about sprinkling that Christmas magic throughout Lisburn City Centre whilst showcasing the array of fantastic shops and eateries we offer. Families of all ages and abilities can come along for the show, before enjoying the spectacular light experience at Castle Gardens, and grabbing a bite to eat, or a bit of Christmas shopping while here. Lisburn’s pedestrian-friendly streets, illuminated by sparkling Christmas lights make it a stress-free, accessible experience for all.”
The interactive walking trails run from 22 November to 21 December and last 30 minutes so are suitable for all ages and abilities. There will also be two British Sign Language interpreted shows on Thursday 5 December at 5:30pm and 6:30pm. Tickets are £5 per person and children under 2 go free.
Early booking is recommended as tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Reserve your place now on this magical journey by visiting the EventBrite link here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lisburn-to-lapland-an-elfs-adventure-2024-tickets-1035012047897

 

Show information:

22 November to 21 December 2024
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Showtimes: 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm (no 6:30pm show on Saturdays)

Tickets: £5 per person, Children under 2 go free
Event Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lisburn-to-lapland-an-elfs-adventure-2024-tickets-1035012047897

The delightfully mischievous elves are performed by Mary McGurk and Louise Parker (with Holly Hannaway as a stand-in during the busy season). Director of Three’s Theatre Company, Anna, also co-created the acclaimed Shadowdock, which captivated Belfast audiences earlier this year. (Photo credit Studio Kin).

Pamela Ballantine receives Brian Waddell Award for outstanding contribution to broadcasting at RTS NI Awards 2024

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The winners of the Royal Television Society Northern Ireland (RTS NI) 9th Programme Awards, sponsored by Ka-Boom were announced last Thursday (14 November) at a glittering awards ceremony in Titanic Belfast, hosted by presenter, podcaster, DJ and leading fitness expert Vogue Williams.

 

The Brian Waddell Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry went to TV presenter Pamela Ballantine who has charmed audiences across Northern Ireland for more than 40 years and continues to do so on Friday nights with UTV Life.

 

Pamela Ballantine said: “I am so honoured to receive this award, especially as I remember Brian Waddell who was Director of Programmes and an imposing and hugely respected figure when I started at UTV, 40 years ago.   I also had the pleasure of working with his company Waddell Media. He was a true legend and trailblazer for TV in Northern Ireland. It is a huge privilege to work in TV in Northern Ireland and I have loved getting the opportunity to meet some many amazing people from all walks of life. Long may it continue.”

 

RTS NI Brian Waddell Award Winner for Outstanding Contribution to Industy – UTV’s Pamela Ballantine.

 

Sarah McCaffrey, Chair of the RTS NI said “It is a real pleasure to acknowledge the incredible talent of Pamela Ballantine who is an amazing role model for women working in our industry. Pamela is the ultimate professional, a brilliant presenter with a unique gift for making those she interviews feel like they are talking to a good friend. Behind the scenes she also gives so generously of her time as a wonderful ambassador for so many worthwhile causes. Congratulations to all our winners and nominees this year who represent the best of the exceptional content and talent now so evident in Northern Ireland and celebrated on the global stage.”

Gerard Stratton was announced as the first ever recipient of the RTS NI’s new Hidden Hero Award for his work as a Director with Triplevision, an ambitious disabled-led independent production company in West Belfast.

 

Georgia Parkinson, Chair of the RTS NI Awards said: “Gerard’s unwavering commitment to helping those in our society who need it most, sets him apart, making him a very worthy recipient of our first ever RTS NI Hidden Hero Award. His work is intergenerational and many people under his guidance have now secured work in the creative industries. I would like to thank all our judges who had such a difficult task this year as the quality of programming across all genres was so high.”

 

The Woman in the Wall won three awards with Ruth Wilson and Daryl McCormack picking up Best Actors and David Holmes and Brian Irvine winning Original Music Score for this spellbinding drama made by Motive Pictures for BBC & Showtime.

 

Homegrown police rookie drama Blue Lights made by Two Cities TV & Gallagher Films for BBC picked up two awards, the coveted Drama Award and also the Writer Award for Declan Lawn, Adam Patterson, Bronagh Taggart and Noel McCann.  James Blake was the Breakthrough winner for fronting the Hunting the Catfish Crime Gang made by Strident Media for BBC Three and BBC NI.

 

The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In by Green Inc Film & TV for RTÉ was the winner in the Entertainment and Comedy category while Waddell Media’s Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King for BBC 2 won the Factual Entertainment Award. Afro-Mic Productions won the Lifestyles and Features Award for Big Money Munch for My5 / BET.

 

A Kind of Spark won the Children’s / Animation Award for 9 Story Media Group for BBC; with the Documentary – Singles Award going to The Secret Army for BBC Northern Ireland and the Documentaries – Series Award to Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland for Keo Films and Walk on Air Films for BBC Two and BBC NI.

 

The winner for News Coverage was BBC Newsline’s Lough Neagh Day report and the Current Affairs Award also went to BBC Northern Ireland for Spotlight – Blood on the Dance Floor.

 

Doubleband Films picked up two awards – Specialist Factual for My Name is Ottilie for BBC NI and BBC 4 and Post-Production for Ukraine: Holocaust Ground Zero for Channel 4.

 

The RTS NI Awards 2024 are partnered by BBC Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland Screen and Channel 4 with headline sponsor Ka-Boom with a special ‘Introducing Studio Ulster Welcome Reception at RTS NI Awards 2024’ and music partnership with The Nerve.

 

For the full list of winners visit: https://rts.org.uk/award/winners-rts-northern-ireland-awards-2024-are

 

 

Hinch Distillery Triumphs at the Irish Whiskey Awards 2024

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Hinch Distillery celebrated a double victory following an unforgettable evening at the Irish Whiskey Awards 2024, held for the first time in Northern Ireland at Hinch Distillery in County Down on November 7. Hosting the prestigious awards marked a special milestone for the distillery, showcasing Northern Ireland’s growing role in Irish whiskey excellence.
The awards, now in their 11th year and spanning 23 categories across Irish whiskeys and spirits, were presented by keynote speaker Lora Hemy, Master Distiller at Roe & Co Distillery in Dublin. This year’s competition was intense, with numerous Irish whiskey brands competing for the top honours. Hinch Irish Whiskey emerged victorious in two highly competitive categories, solidifying its position as a leader in the whiskey industry.
Hinch Distillery Team (L-R): Jamie Cotter, Dr Terry Cross OBE, Will Stafford and Terry McCartan.
The evening was a resounding success as Hinch Distillery’s whiskeys received top accolades. The 15-Year-Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish Batch 1 was awarded Gold in the Blended Whiskey Age Statement category, and the winner’s trophy for Blend Limited Edition went to Hinch’s 5-Year-Old Madeira Cask—a remarkable testament to the distillery’s dedication to quality and craft. This exquisite whiskey, known for its double wood maturation process, has captivated the palates of connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
Dr Terry Cross OBE, Chairman of Hinch Distillery, expressed his delight at the double win: “We are immensely proud to have hosted this year’s Irish Whiskey Awards, bringing together the best of our industry right here in Northern Ireland. Winning these awards is a significant recognition of our team’s dedication and craftsmanship. Our success serves as an inspiration to continue our journey of producing world-class whiskeys.”
Will Stafford, Distillery Manager and Head Distiller at Hinch Distillery, added, “It was an honour to open our doors to industry colleagues and whiskey lovers alike. This award reflects the hard work, passion and dedication that each member of our team brings to every bottle. We’re thrilled that our commitment to exceptional whiskey-making was acknowledged with such prestigious awards. Winning these awards is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. This year’s event highlighted the growth and strength of Irish whiskey across the drinks industry.”
Ally Alpine, Managing Director of Celtic Whiskey Shop and organiser of the Irish Whiskey Awards, commented on the evening’s success: “We are very excited to have co-hosted this year’s awards at Hinch Distillery. The Irish Whiskey Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in our industry and support our charity partner, Mary’s Meals. This year’s event was truly special, thanks to Hinch’s hospitality and the enthusiasm of everyone who joined us.”
Will Stafford, Distillery Manager and Head Distiller, Hinch Distillery.

Belfast festive celebrations swing into action with the opening of the Belfast Christmas market!

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Celebrating its 20th year, the Belfast Christmas Market opened to the delight of awaiting crowds at 12noon on Saturday 16th, each eager to be the first through the gates.
Many visitors got their first look at this year’s award-winning market which saw traders from over 30 countries dressed in Victorian costumes, adding a touch of historic festive charm. This year’s offer also included the usual live entertainment, delicious treats and magnificent sights, sounds and smells.
This year’s Belfast Christmas Market has seen the return of many visitor favourites, such as bite-size Dutch pancakes and mouthwatering Ostrich burgers, alongside exciting new offerings including stylish handmade pet accessories and luxury artisan soaps and candles. Once again the market celebrates local talent and artisan producers, with over 40% being home grown, Northern Ireland traders.
As the official media partners of the Belfast Christmas Market, it seemed fitting that Q Radio presenters Amy McGuckin and Ibe Sesay greeted eager crowds, treating the first lucky visitors to festive merchandise and the chance to win big prizes with their exciting “Spin2Win” game. From their bespoke Q Radio DJ Booth in the market’s food court, they kept the energy high, playing popular festive tunes and getting everyone in the Christmas Spirit.
Lucky first Visitor Cassandra Edes, winning concert tickets with Q Radio’s Ibe Sesay.
Amy McGuckin, Q Radio Breakfast Presenter, said:
“We’re delighted to be here for the opening of the Belfast Christmas Market on behalf of Q Radio. It’s fantastic to bring the studio on the road and be right in the heart of the action as we build up to Christmas with our listeners. Throughout the duration of the market, we will be providing entertainment with live DJ sets, busking sessions, and on-air interviews. Be sure to call over to the booth and say hello!”
This year the big man in red will be resident in his festive grotto operated by local children’s charity, Kids Together Belfast. And for families looking for an amazing birds eye view and a festive thrill, a whizz down the vintage Helter Skelter is sure to delight.
The Belfast Christmas Market attracts visitors from across Europe and the UK and has become a significant contributor to the local economy, regularly attracting over one million visitors and resulting in an economic impact to the city of circa a significant £60m, demonstrating the citywide benefit of such a large, well-loved and well organised event.
Of course, the Belfast Christmas Market is not the only offer in the city, there is so much more and several events will launching as part of the Christmas festivities. To keep track of Christmas Market news, and the ever-important weather updates, follow the official Facebook, Instagram and TikTok page at Belfast Continental Christmas Market and keep an eye out for our fabulous social media activity in conjunction with our media partners Q Radio and travel partners Dublin Express, who will be offering spot prizes and lots of information about their daily Belfast to Dublin service.
Belfast Christmas Market will be at the City Hall until 6pm on 22 December.
Opening hours are:
Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm
Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm
Sunday 12noon – 6pm
Q radio and Market Place with first Christmas Market visitors (Amy McGuckin, Cassandra Edes , Allan Hartwell, Holly Dinley and Ibe Sesay).

Northern Ireland Hospice invites public to “light up the darkness” in annual Lights to Remember service

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Northern Ireland Hospice is calling on the community to join together in remembrance and celebration of loved ones who have passed, with the 2024 launch of its annual Lights to Remember appeal and remembrance service.
Now in its 30th year, the Lights to Remember appeal invites people from across Northern Ireland to dedicate a light on the Hospice Christmas tree in memory of their loved ones. Each light helps support the Hospice’s vital palliative care services, reaching families throughout the region.
This year’s Lights to Remember service will take place on Thursday 19th December at 7pm at Dominican College, Fortwilliam, Belfast, followed by a moving candlelight procession to Somerton House, the Adult In-Patient Unit on Belfast’s Somerton Road.
Hold a candle – lantern-bearer Brendan McEvoy at the 2023 NI Hospice Lights to Remember service in memory of lost loved ones.
At the heart of this year’s service will be Christopher Smith and his young daughter, Meabh, who will light the first candle of remembrance. Christopher’s wife, Leancha, sadly passed away in Hospice care in August 2023 at the age of 31.
Speaking on behalf of his family, Christopher said:“The Hospice provided us with incredible support during an unimaginably difficult time, bringing comfort and care to Leancha and allowing us moments of peace together. We’re honoured to take part in the Lights to Remember service. It’s a way for us to celebrate Leancha’s life and to be part of a community that understands the depth of love and loss.”
Following the service, Christopher and Meabh will join NI Hospice President Paul Clark to officially switch on the Christmas lights at Somerton House, illuminating the Hospice’s tree in a tribute to all those who are no longer with us.
Lauren Doherty, NI Hospice’s Interim Director of Brand and Income, expressed the significance of this service:“Lights to Remember is a cherished tradition at Hospice that is now marking its 30th anniversary. It’s a chance for families to come together, not just those who have experienced Hospice care, but anyone who is touched by bereavement and loss. Through carols, reflections, and heartfelt readings, we find comfort in each other’s presence,illuminating the darkness with memories and love this Christmas season.”
For those who are unable to attend, the service will be streamed online onMonday 23rd December, offering an opportunity for all to join in this moving tribute.
To honour your loved one and dedicate a light on the Hospice tree, please visitnihospice.org/lights.

Leading cultural voices join Belfast 2024 for ‘Our Stories Festival’

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Industry names in culture, music and the environment will discuss the vital role of art and creativity in Belfast at the Our Stories Festival, coming up on 21-24 November at venues across the city centre. 

The new festival is part of Belfast City Council’s Belfast 2024 programme, delivered in partnership with Belfast Stories and produced by Nerve Centre and NI Science Festival.

It offers hands-on workshops and exciting exhibitions, hosted by artists, thinkers, designers, musicians, activists and storytellers. Together, they will look back at a year of citywide creative events and activities and discuss its legacy for people, place and planet – the key themes of Belfast 2024 – as well as its role in shaping other emerging projects, including the groundbreaking Belfast Stories visitor attraction.

So far, 35,000 people have taken part in over 500 events, workshops and activities, from major events like Little Amal back in May, to community projects supported by the Bank of Ideas funding scheme. Over 800 contracts have been signed with artists, production staff, facilitators and designers, supporting jobs, engaging local communities and encouraging creativity.

Opening the festival on Thursday 21 November (7pm-9pm) will be acclaimed naturalist and environmental campaigner Chris Packham. He will join local ecologist Conor McKinney and youth activist Anna Kernahan from Fridays for Future Northern Ireland at the Assembly Rooms to talk about youth participation in tackling climate change.

Other events include Story Soup at Brink!, a space for visitors to write their own stories, Power Plants workshops where families can create mini tray gardens with natural and recycled materials, and Eclectic, an exhibition by graduates from Belfast School of Art at 2 Royal Avenue.

(L-R) Sarah Jones (Nerve Centre), Conor McKinney (Wild Belfast) and Kwame Daniels (Solab) join with Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, to launch the Our Stories Festival, taking place 21-24 November at venues across Belfast city centre.

The festival’s closing event, on Sunday 24 November (3pm-4pm, University of Ulster) will see world-renowned illustrator Oliver Jeffers returning to his native Belfast to discuss how improving access to creativity can create positive environmental change.

Emmy-nominated musician Hannah Peel will talk about her experience of working on North Star – a original production for Belfast 2024 – and her work as a composer for various TV and film commissions for Netflix and Sky, while Martin Green, Chief Creative Officer of Unboxed, Commonwealth Games and Hull City of Culture will share how Hull used investment into its creative sector to unlock new opportunities for local artists and build enduring partnerships beyond their UK City of Culture experience in 2017.

Co-founder of the Eden Project, Sir Tim Smit, will also join the ‘Stories to Change the Future’ event, highlighting how his organisation has been working with Belfast 2024 to encourage communities to embrace the environment on their doorstep, through innovative projects like 9ft in Common, which has focused on embracing and using the city’s 202km of alleyways as spaces for growing and coming together.

“Throughout 2024, we’ve celebrated our city’s creativity through events, big and small, and used the arts to bring people together, inspire conversations and enable visitors and residents to see Belfast in new ways,” said Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray.

“The Our Stories Festival will bring all those elements together, delving deeper into the role of cultural organisations and artists to encourage dialogue, ask questions and provoke discussion around key themes like the environment.

“With a great line-up of speakers, it promises to be a very special weekend of events, an opportunity to look back over this year and its legacy, while also looking forward the future and what’s next for our city.”

“Culture is an ecological transformative force, vital to how we relate to our planet. Belfast’s cultural and creative interventions and programmes make a powerful statement of the city’s confidence in the future,” said Sir Tim Smit.

“We, the Eden project team, have so enjoyed working with Belfast 2024 on their nature inspired projects, such as the wonderful alleyways project by 9ft in Common and ROOTS, the community garden at Black Mountain Shared Space, projects inspiring passion and curiosity for biodiversity and care for our planet through creativity and community connection – creating a long -lasting legacy for this city, putting people and planet at its heart.”

Full listings and ticket details for the Our Stories Festival are available at belfast2024.co.uk

(L-R) Creative practitioners Sarah Jones (Nerve Centre), Conor McKinney (Wild Belfast) and Kwame Daniels (Solab) launch the Our Stories Festival at Brink! in Belfast city centre.