PEOPLE from Northern Ireland were invited earlier this year to ‘bring home’ their friends and family from around the world to showcase what Northern Ireland has to offer in 2012, as part of a Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) Civic Pride campaign.
Belfast couple Denis and Marie Savage, who moved from Andersonstown to Ontario in Canada 38 years ago, won the competition which involved their family sending a ‘virtual postcard’ to let them know about all the exciting events and celebrations happening in Northern Ireland in 2012.
The Savages, who are now settled in Canada with four children and three grandchildren, won a trip to see their family and friends courtesy of NITB and arrived in Northern Ireland this week to experience all their home country has to offer in 2012.
Marie Savage said, “Our family in West Belfast sent us a postcard telling us what an amazing year 2012 was going to be for Northern Ireland.
“We emigrated to Canada from Belfast in 1974 and have been living there since. We entered the competition on the ni2012 website but never expected to win and are absolutely delighted to experience Northern Ireland in its most exciting year yet.
“On our trip home as well as spending time with family we’ve visited the spectacular Titanic Belfast, enjoyed some delicious local cuisine in Strangford and Portaferry, explored the beautiful scenery of the North Coast and shopped in Dungannon!” Marie continued.
“The changes since we were last home are unbelievable and I’m truly proud to say I’m from here. I’ll be encouraging all of my friends and family in Canada and around the world to make the trip to Northern Ireland to see the progress for themselves,” Marie added.
Eimear Callaghan, NITB’s Campaigns Project Officer said, “The ‘Bring Them Home’ competition was run as part of our Civic Pride campaign to showcase and celebrate the best of what Northern Ireland has to offer in 2012.
“From key events such as the Titanic Belfast opening, the Irish Open and the Peace One Day Concert to music festivals and carnivals, there really has been something for everyone to celebrate this year.
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring home the Savage family all the way from Canada to experience everything that’s happening for themselves. 2012 has shown us that there’s no better time to be from Northern Ireland,” Eimear added.
For further information on things to do and events taking place across Northern Ireland click on www.discovernorthernireland.com or www.ni2012.com.