Ards and North Down Borough Council, with support and funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), have brought the towns Christian Heritage to life through the production of a new DVD and music CD.

The DVD features a selection of six short films showing the history of Bangor and highlighting its importance to the development of Christianity, not just here in Ireland but across Europe.

The DVD has a dual purpose, to animate tours to local Christian Heritage sites such as North Down Museum and Bangor Abbey, and also as an educational tool available to schools. The DVD compliments the publication, “the White Dove”, a comic which tells the history of Columbanus and the free Bangor Christian Heritage Trail mobile App, both supported by the HLF and available for schools to aid in the teaching of the areas local history.

The “Journey of a Single Day” CD brings together music and poetry from across Europe and the countries Columbanus established monastic settlements including; France, Italy, Germany and Ireland north and south.

The 18 tracks range from choral to traditional and instrumental to the works of Columbanus brought together through his poems. Locally it features works from the Ards CCE, the DIT Irish Traditional Music Ensemble, local poets and Bangor Ladies and Ballyholme Primary School Choirs.

At the recent launch event Tourism Development Officer for Ards and North Down Borough Council, Alex Irvine said, “We are delighted that both the DVD and CD can be launched to mark St Comgall’s Day in May. Our aim is to keep Christian Heritage to the fore, both locally and within education but also for visitors to the town to be able to learn more about the town’s heritage in new and innovative ways. We are grateful to the HLF for all the support over the past year in delivering this suite of products”.

Mark Glover, Heritage Lottery Fund NI said “This has been a fascinating project which has explored St Columbanus and Bangor’s strong role in Europe’s Christian heritage. The project has told this story through a number of initiatives from exhibitions, events, trails and now the DVD and CD. We were delighted to support the council in taking such an innovative approach highlight the rich local heritage. It is thanks to players of the National Lottery that we can help fund projects such as these”.

Copies of the DVD and CD can be obtained by contacting bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk or 028 9127 0069.

Saturday 7 May 2016 is National Scrapbooking Day, in which “Scrappers” come together to enjoy a community event.

They will share stories in the creative form of Scrapbooking and meet like-minded people from different backgrounds, but having a common bond through this hobby.

To celebrate National Scrapbooking Day, this special event “MOMENTS AND MEMORIES” will take place on Saturday 7 May in the Linen Suite at Mossley Mill from 11am-3pm.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Thomas Hogg commented “Scrapbooking is  a fantastic hobby which allows you to get creative and meet new friends” Tutor Jacqui Milliken who has over 12 years’ experience in teaching Scrapbooking, will show you how to be imaginative, turning  your photos into pages of memories and creative works of art.

The cost is £10 which includes tea/coffee, scones and all materials to complete the project.  No experience necessary. Please bring along photos, scissors and a ruler.

For bookings or for further information, contact Jacqui Tel: 077 5944 4723.

Mercury Prize nominee, Roots Album Of The Year and BBC Folk Awards Winner, outstanding singer and traditional song collector, Sam Lee will perform at the Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 6^th May.

Sam is fast becoming accepted as a new pioneer, defining the sound, sight and texture of folksong today.

His latest album, ‘The Fade in Time’, released in March 2015, has received a 5 star review in The Guardian, and been described as ‘one of the albums of the year’. His live band, Sam Lee & Friends, carve a new acoustic sound with their homemade instrumentation using unconventional and contemporary arrangements that challenge preconceptions of what traditional folk should sound like. This will be a gig not to be missed. Catch them at the Market Place Theatre, Friday 6^th May at 8pm. Tickets are priced £13 and £11 (concession).

Northern Ireland’s No. 1 for swing, The PM Big Band returns to The Market Place Theatre on the same evening, bringing with them a classic mix of vocals and instrumentals from ‘The Great American Song Book’, including selections from Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, and other legends from this ageless and popular musical genre.

Adding a little spice the band will flavour the evening with Big Band versions of some modern classics ensuring an evening of music to appeal to everyone. The PM Big Band will perform on Friday 6 May at 8pm. Tickets are priced £12 each.

Tickets for all performances can be booked through the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com

And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Northern Ireland has a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for the perfect short break and Tourism NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

• Opening offer with complimentary Prosecco, The Cookehouse, Belfast. From £70pps. The Cookehouse is a restored Art Deco house built in 1936, located in a quiet residential area 4 miles from Belfast City Centre, and within easy reach of City Airport, Stormont Estate and the beautiful Ards Peninsula. Enjoy B&B for 2 nights for £70 per person sharing and avail of a welcome bottle of Prosecco. Available until 31 May. To book call (028) 9514 4648.

• Spring Break, Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry, Co. Londonderry. From £119pps. Add some spring splendour to your life with a relaxing break at Derry~Londonderry’s newest hotel, ideally located within the historic city walls in the heart of the cathedral quarter. As well as two nights’ accommodation in a deluxe room with a cooked breakfast each morning, you will enjoy a signature cocktail upon arrival and indulge in a four-course gourmet dinner on an evening of your choice. Available until 31 May. To book call (028) 7114 0300.

• Suite Treat, Manor House Country Hotel, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. From £129pps. Get away for some rest and relaxation on the shores of Lough Erne at the 4-star Manor House. This special offer includes a two-night stay in a Junior Suite, full Irish breakfast each morning and dinner at the hotel’s award-winning Belleek restaurant on the evening of your choice. Guests can also enjoy complimentary access to the newly refurbished leisure facilities, complete with swimming pool, steam room, outdoor jacuzzi and fitness suite. Available until 31 May. To book call (028) 6862 2200.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (April 25 – May 1).

• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, various locations, Belfast, April 28-May 7. The 17th Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival returns to enliven the city centre and beyond, with over 150 events. The packed musical line-up includes Marc Almond, Guy Garvey and The Zombies, with a comedy line-up featuring Rob Delaney, Tina C, Roy Walker. There is also a full complement of literature, theatre and visual art, including a bespoke programme in a dynamic new theatre space in the Cathedral Quarter, The Barracks. To celebrate the 2016 Year of Food and Drink, a one-day meat-free mini-festival Vegstock will take place in the Festival Marquee on May 2 accompanied by a great programme of entertainment.

• Apple Blossom Fair, Ardress House & Loughgall Country Park, Co. Armagh, April 30-May 2. County Armagh is known as the Orchard County of Ireland because of its many apple orchards, spanning over 4,000 acres of countryside. Celebrate local food traditions with orchard tours, cider tastings, barbecues and entertainment for all the family at Ardress House and Loughgall Country Park with shuttle buses available to transport visitors between sites.

• Cushendun’s Big Arts Weekend, various locations, Cushendun, Co. Antrim, April 29-May 2. Cushendun’s Big Arts Weekend is a four day festival of music, drama, poetry, exhibitions, workshops and family fun in one of the most picturesque villages in the Glens of Antrim. Now in its fourth year the festival showcases the rich culture and spectacular landscape of Cushendun and has something for everyone.

• North West Brew Fest, Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, April 30. This exciting debut event is all about great drink and will showcase local beer, stout, ale and cider produced from across the North West. The Silverbirch Hotel’s pavilion will be transformed into a beer garden with fantastic live music taking place throughout the day from local Tyrone band, Hootin Annie’s as well as Fermanagh duo, Niall and Karl. Begins at 4pm.

• Dawn Chorus, Kiltonga Nature Reserve, Newtownards, Co. Down, April 30. One of nature’s delights, the dawn chorus should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Join bird expert Dot Blakely as the sun comes up over Kiltonga Nature Reserve for an early morning masterclass in how to recognise the songs of the dawn chorus.

• Festival of Fools 2016, various locations, Belfast, April 29-May 2. The sound of laughter will be echoing all over Belfast, as the 13^th Festival of Fools comes to town. Over 120 shows and walkabout performances will be taking place throughout the Bank Holiday weekend, all free of charge, with daredevil acrobatics, circus acts, comedy, magic and much more courtesy of some of the leading street theatre companies from Europe, America, the UK and Ireland.

• Rare Breeds Show, Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, April 30-May 2. Pull on your wellies as rare and minority breeds of cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry make the Ulster American Folk Park home for the weekend. Experts will be on hand to answer questions about the variety of interesting cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry on show.

• Big Marquee Weekend II, Mary Pat’s Bar, Macosquin, Co. Londonderry, April 29-May 1. The village of Macosquin near Coleraine will play host to music lovers from across Northern Ireland and beyond over the May Bank Holiday weekend at Big Marquee Weekend II. This year’s line-up features a thrilling mix of big name dance, Britpop, indie and Irish country stars.

• City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival, various locations, Derry, Co. Londonderry, April 28-May 2. Derry~Londonderry will be reverberating to the sound of jazz from bars, theatres, shopping centres, restaurants and on the streets around the city as the festival, now in its 15^th year, offers a fantastic programme of live music.

• Activities at Castle Archdale, Castle Archdale Caravan Park and Camp Site, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, April 30. It is the golden jubilee of Castle Archdale, and the whole family is welcome to join in the celebrations, which include balloon modelling with Mr Twister and a kid’s quiz with prizes. Begins at 3pm.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.

Down

Your taste buds are guaranteed to be satisfied at Newry’s Food Festival this Friday 22nd April, with over 30 food producers, restaurants and eateries taking part. Local businesses are bringing a taste of their menus to the heart of Newry – be sure to stop by for lunch, tea, a coffee or snack and even bring some wholesome Northern Ireland produce home to your own kitchen.  A range of demonstrations will take place between 12.00 pm and 6.00 pm including SRC Catering Students as well as Aine’s Kitchen Cookery School, and live music for everyone to enjoy.

Armagh

This Sunday 24th April at the Navan Fort Armagh – MythOlogy is a FREE drop-in event as part of the ‘Ology’ series of events.  This event looks at the whole idea of myths.  Enjoy a Queen Maeve shadow puppet show  and make a puppet of your own..

Fermanagh

Apr Icarus Theatre Collective presents The Trials Of Galileo by Nic Young at the Ardhowen Theatre this Friday 22^nd April. The Trials of Galileo focuses on the events surrounding Galileo’s heresy trial in 1633. This witty, chilling, and passionate one-man rollercoaster stars Tim Hardy of the RSC/RADA and is written by Emmy Award-winner Nic Young. After a highly successful tour of Malta, Spain, the Edinburgh Fringe and America, with multiple four-star reviews, RSC actor Tim Hardy brings his solo show to theatres across the UK. Suitable for 14 years and upwards. Contains some strong language.

Tyrone

Continuing in the Riverbank tradition of producing exciting adaptations of classical children’s literature, the company are now embarking on one of the most famous books ever. “Alice in Wonderland” featuring all your favourite “Alice” characters portrayed by a cast of four talented actors this Friday at the Square Box Dungannon. You’d have to be mad as a hatter to miss this!

Derry

The Storytelling Festival & Music Maghera on 22nd & 23rd April is a first for Mid-Ulster and includes 8 well-known names from around the province Roy Arbuckle, Joe Brennan, Ian Coalter, Declan Forde, Pearl Hutchison, Steve Lally, George Shiels and Liz Weir.  Also featuring local musicians John Burns, Vincent McCusker and James Bradley. The evening events start at 7.45pm. Tickets are £8 and available from the Heritage Centre. Refreshments available.

Antrim

The Courtyard Theatre Newtownabbey are delighted to have Celtic Soul return again to celebrate one of the truly great singer/songwriters of all time: our own Van Morrison, this Saturday evening.  With Van marking his 70th birthday with concerts on Cyprus Avenue, the band has been busier than ever both at home and with fans from abroad. They also performed at the Ulster Hall to mark the first BBC Music Day.  With years of playing in blues, folk, trad and jazz bands these musicians have the ingredients to deliver Van’s music authentically.

Belfast

Grab your cloaks, your cushions and your supplies this Thursday 21st April and climb on board a shipwreck for a truly magical experience. Belfast is joining the global celebration in honour of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with a truly extraordinary version of the Tempest – the Bard’s last play.  Join 230 people from across the city and a professional cast from around to world as choirs, dancers, actors, music and lights come together to create a uniquely Belfast Tempest at the Titanic Quarter in T13 warehouse.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

One of the major festivals in the Celtic calendar was Bealtaine.

For the Celts this festival marked the end of Spring and the arrival of the longer, warmer Summer days.  This light and heat meant they could grow their crops and fatten animals to store for Winter.

On Sunday 1^st May, from 11.00am – 5.00pm, join the Iron Age family at the Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh as they use different traditions to mark the end of winter and all that summer brings! At this festival the family will light purifying Bealtaine fires, help in the preparation for upcoming battles and will be making gifts for the gods by tying woven ribbons to the tree of Spring.  You are of course invited to get involved!

The event will continue with a very special Celtic wedding ceremony, known as a hand-fasting.  Learn about the traditions of Celtic marriage and the customs of the wedding celebration.  You might even be chosen as the bride or groom!

No booking is required, just drop in and enjoy all the fun!  Normal admission charges apply.

For information please contact: Navan Centre & Fort, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh.  BT60 4LD.  Tel 028 3752 9644 or www.navan.com

UK Young Restaurant Team of The Year title could be coming to Northern Ireland

A team of talented young hospitality professionals from the Hastings Hotels Group have just been named as finalists in the UK Young Restaurant Team of The Year competition.

They are one of only five teams from across the whole of the UK to make the final, explained Mark McGurnaghan, Group Human Resources Manager.

“We are thrilled that some of our talented restaurant team members have made it to the final in one of the most prestigious hospitality competitions for young people in the UK,” said Mark.

He continued:  “We have been told that the calibre of the entrants this year was incredibly high so I would like to congratulate Andrew Bradford, Commis Chef, Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, Craig Thompson, Commis Chef, The Europa Hotel, Kevin Keenan, Front of House, Culloden Estate & Spa and the team mentor, Jay Eisenstadt, Executive Head Chef, The Stormont Hotel on making the final, which is an achievement in itself.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that the people who dine with us at Hastings Hotels, enjoy a first-class service and delicious locally sourced food, so to be recognised nationally in this way has really confirmed that the hard work and dedication to quality service our young team have been providing is working.  We would like to wish them the best of luck for the final in July and we will be cheering them on.”

The final of the competition will take place in Sheffield at the Sheffield City College on July 5.

Northern Ireland is proud to be home to a number of excellent breweries and distilleries, all busy handcrafting some of the UK’s finest beverages.

But rather than just drinking them, what about discovering how these fantastic local tipples end up in your glass, said Rachel Quigg, Communications and Destination PR Officer, Tourism Northern Ireland.

“This year is the NI Year of Food and Drink 2016 and April is dedicated to brewing and distilling.  We are fortunate in Northern Ireland to have such a super collection of distilleries and breweries producing everything from the finest cider and whiskey to craft beers and gin.”

Rachel continued:  “Not only that, but there are many exciting drink themed events and happenings taking place all over the country including the not-to-be-missed Hilden Beer & Music Festival which takes place between August 26-28 at Hilden Brewery in Lisburn.”

Tourism Northern Ireland has created a refreshing list of tours, events and happenings, some of which you can enjoy right now.

Raise a glass to the tour

Old Bushmills Distillery

Positioned on the beautiful North Coast, Bushmills Distillery is Ireland’s oldest working distillery. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour where they will learn about the 400 year history of the distillery whilst taking in all the associated sights and smells, enjoy tutored whiskey tastings and be able to browse the specialist gift shop. There is also a restaurant which serves lunches and Bushmills inspired treats.  After enjoying a tour of this fascinating distillery visitors can explore all that the stunning North Coast has to offer including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

Hilden Brewery

Hilden Brewery is Ireland’s oldest independent brewery and is located near Lisburn in the 19^th century courtyard of Hilden House.  Many visitors flock to the Brewery each year to discover its interesting history and heritage and to sample the award-winning cuisine. Hilden Brewery Beers are available at various bars and restaurants throughout Northern Ireland, including Molly’s Yard, Belfast, The John Hewitt, Belfast and the Dirty Duck in Holywood.

Rademon Estate Distillery

Rademon Estate Distillery in Crossgar is the home of Shortcross Gin.  Gin lovers should keep an eye out for the estate’s new visitor experience centre which is set to open this year and will take guests on a fascinating journey of how this hand bottled award-winning gin came to be.  Whilst in the area make sure to visit the Irish Linen Centre where you can take an audio visual tour and see the weaving centre and hand looms.audio visual tour and see the weaving centre and hand looms entre showcases one of Ireland’s best known industries. Take an audio visual tour and see the weaving centre and hand looms. This centre also showcases events and exhibitions which recreate and honour Lisburn’s rich, local history. The Irish Linen Centre showcases one of Ireland’s best known industries. Take an audio visual tour and see the weaving centre and hand looms. This centre also showcases events and exhibitions which recreate and honour Lisburn’s rich, local history. The Irish Linen Centre showcases one of Ireland’s best known industries. Take an audio visual tour and see the weaving centre and hand looms. This centre also showcases events and exhibitions which recreate and honour Lisburn’s rich, local history.

Hughes Craft Distillery

Hughes Craft Distillery in Lisburn is the brain child of Stuart and Barbara Hughes who manage everything first-hand in their small batch spirits business producing a wide range of award-winning RubyBlue Spirits in a variety of flavours. RubyBlue Liqueurs are made with real fruit from quintuple distilled Irish grain spirit and infused with Blackcurrants, wild Blueberries, Cranberries and Chilli Peppers.  The distillery has gained many coveted awards including Global Vodka Master Gold, New York World Wine and Spirits Sliver and won stars in the Great Taste Awards. Tours can be arranged which take visitors on the journey behind this interesting range of drinks.

Walled City Brewery, Derry~Londonderry

The Walled City Brewery is a brew house and restaurant in one making it a unique destination for sampling tasty craft beers and enjoying the delicious tapas style menu.  Visitors to the brewery can discover the fascinating stories as to why the brewery’s craft beers are named Boom, Stitch and Kick.  Be sure and visit the City Walls which are 1.5km in circumference and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street plan to this day. are approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street plan to this day. which are approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street plan to this day. which are approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street plan to this day.

Armagh Cider Company

Armagh is renowned around the world for its Bramley Apples and the Troughton family behind the Armagh Cider Company have been at the centre of the apple growing tradition for generations. All of their products are artisan and handcrafted so they are completely natural and contain no artificial ingredients or flavours. Those interested in finding out more can contact the Armagh Cider Company and arrange a tour.  Be sure to visit the Navan Centre which offers a unique appreciation of the history of the area through a stimulating exhibition packed full of information, artefacts and hands on activities for all the family. offers visitors a unique appreciation of the history of the area through a stimulating exhibition packed full of information, artifacts and hands on activities for all the family.

McComb’s Grub Crawl Tour

Those looking for a tasty way to spend the day with friends should look no further than McComb’s Coach Travel’s new tour, Grub Crawl, which will visit some of the country’s most innovative food and drink producers. Tours operate on a Friday and Saturday and will take in renowned food places such as Abernethy Butter, Kilmegan Cider, Mourne Seafood Bar and The Poachers Pocket.

Raise a glass to the event

North West Brew Fest, Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh, April 30.  This exciting debut event is all about great drink producers who will showcase local beer, stout, ale and cider from across the North West.  Silverbirch Hotel’s Pavilion will be transformed with a beer garden theme and there will be fantastic live entertainment by local band, ‘Hootin Annie’s as well as Fermanagh duo, Niall and Karl.Silverbirch Hotel’s Pavilion which will be transformed with a beer garden theme to the event and fantastic live entertainment by local Tyrone band, ‘Hootin Annie’s as well as Fermanagh duo Niall and Karl. Something very exciting is ‘brewing’ at Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh who have ‘cracked open’ plans for a new and exciting event taking place on Saturday 30th April from 16:00 in The Pavilion.

Aptly named ‘North West Brew Fest’ this exciting debut event is all about great drink and will showcase local beer, stout, ale and cider produced from across the North West featuring; Pokertree Brewery (Carrickmore), Long Meadow Cider, Hillstown (Randalstown), Red Hand Brewing (Donaghmore), Farmageddon (Comber)and NorthBound (Derry).

Five Beer Friday, Neill Wine, Groomsport, Co. Down. Beer lovers can come along on the last Friday of every month and sample five local beers.

Bangor Beer Club, The Salty Dog Hotel & Bistro, Bangor, Co. Down. Come along to Bangor Beer Club on the first Tuesday of the month to meet some of the characters behind the ever growing NI brewing scene.

Beer Club Belfast, Sunflower Public House, Belfast, Co. Antrim. Beer Club meets monthly, usually on a Friday and is open to everyone from seasoned beer lovers to those who just want to find out more about the wide range of beers that are available. Samples are provided of new and exciting beers from around the world and interesting meet the brewer events are also held throughout the year.

For further information check out www.discovernorthernireland.com or join the conversation online with #EnjoyNI16.

~ Tourism Ireland promotion to reach 5.5 million people across Great Britain ~

19 April 2016 – Tourism Ireland has teamed up with actor Richard E Grant and Smooth Radio, the third largest radio brand in Britain, in a new promotion to showcase Northern Ireland to British holidaymakers this year.

Tourism Ireland is working with Smooth Radio to produce a series of short online films. Viewers will see Richard E Grant immerse himself in our culture and meet the locals, showcasing some of the many wonderful experiences on offer here, with films featuring Belfast and the Causeway Coast. Tourism Ireland worked closely with Tourism NI, to agree the locations to feature in each film.

The campaign – which will be rolled out in two phases – will reach about 5.5 million people across Britain. The films will be promoted on the Smooth Radio website and through on-air mentions. They will also be shared via social media – targeting Tourism Ireland’s audience on Facebook (430,000 fans in Britain alone) and Twitter (67,000+ followers).

Richard E Grant is a great fit for the Tourism Ireland campaign and our key audience of ‘culturally curious’ holidaymakers. His appearances in films and TV series like Withnail and I, Downton Abbey and Hotel Secrets have cemented his popularity and made him one of the best-known faces on British television.

Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland’s Deputy Head of Great Britain, said: “Our newest promotion has been specifically designed to highlight holidays and short breaks in Northern Ireland to our ‘culturally curious’ audience in Great Britain. These are independent, active sightseers, who are typically looking to visit new places and expand their experience by exploring landscapes, history and culture. We are really excited to be working with Richard E Grant and Smooth Radio, as they are a great fit with this important demographic. This is just one element of our extensive promotional programme that we are rolling out this year – aimed at boosting travel to Northern Ireland from Great Britain during 2016.”