Month: August 2022

Agriculture Minister Wishes Competitors Good Luck For European Ploughing Championships This Weekend

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Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland, Edwin Poots MLA has wished competitors headed to Ballykelly this weekend for the European Ploughing Championships good luck.

Speaking ahead of the event which also includes the European Vintage Ploughing Championships and Horse Ploughing competition at Shackleton Barracks in Ballykelly this Friday and Saturday the Minister said he was pleased to have offered sponsorship of the event from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

In praising the NI Ploughing Association (NIPA) for hosting the European Ploughing Championships, the agriculture Minister said: “I’m pleased that Northern Ireland is hosting the European Ploughing Championships and that my Department is helping to sponsor the event. It is encouraging to note that 100 competitors are expected to take part, with some visitors coming from as far away as Canada.

“This event provides a further opportunity to showcase our agri-food sector to a wide audience, in addition to boosting the local rural economy through large visitor numbers, hotel bookings and dining etc.

“Being an avid machinery enthusiast myself, I am acutely aware of the skills required in handling the tractors and equipment and I would like to take this opportunity to wish the NIPA a successful event and all competitors the very best of luck for the competition.”

Set to be a family friendly fun-packed event, trade stands, horse ploughing exhibitions, children’s entertainment, crafts stalls and a vintage display are among a range of attractions that will be available onsite throughout the two day competition.

The event is hosted by the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association, the governing body of competition ploughing across Northern Ireland uniting 21 affiliated ploughing societies across the country with approximately 500 members.

Adrian Jamison, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association said of the event: “We are delighted to be bringing the European Ploughing Championships back to Northern Ireland and to be able to welcome our fellow ploughmen from across Europe to Ballykelly.”

He also explained that hosting events like the European Ploughing Championships helps people within the farming community “to congregate and meet as well as people in the local areas who are just interested in finding out a bit more about the agricultural traditions here in Northern Ireland.”

This year over 100 competitors are set to compete in seven different categories: World Style Reversible, World Style Conventional, Vintage Class, Horse Class and Horse Style & Appearance Class. 

Competitors from Wales, England, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, the Isle of Man, Belgium, Denmark, Switzerland, Scotland and Northern Ireland, are set to compete at Shackelton Barracks in Ballykelly this weekend.

The European Ploughing Championships take place at Shackleton Barracks in Ballykelly, Co Derry/Londonderry, on Friday and Saturday, September 2-3, 2022.

More information can be found at niploughing.com or at facebook.com/niploughing 

NOW WE’RE SUCKIN’ DIESEL WITH NEW DATES ANNOUNCED FOR LINE OF DUTY EXPERIENCE

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DUE to increased demand, Hastings Hotels and McComb’s Coach Travel have announced new dates for the hugely popular Line of Duty Experience, the original tour of filming locations from the hit TV series, on Saturday 8th October, 5th November and 3rd December.

The Line of Duty Experience, begins with lunch in the Grand Café in the Grand Central Hotel, before an action packed guided tour onboard a luxurious coach, taking in some of the most recognisable filming locations and finishing the afternoon with an AC12 cocktail or Wee Donkey mocktail in the Observatory, Ireland’s tallest cocktail bar. Guests will also receive the Hastings’ Line of Duty duck which has been designed with some of Northern Ireland’s best-known sayings.  

Caroline McComb from McCombs Coach Travel is joined by Cáelán McVeigh from the Grand Central Hotel as it is announced that new dates have been added for the hugely popular Line of Duty Experience (£65pp), the original tour of filming locations from the hit TV series, on Saturday 8th October, 5th November and 3rd December.  For more information or to book go to www.mccombscoaches.com or call 028 9086 6162.  

The tour starts at Belfast’s Grand Central Hotel in Bedford Street which is located beside the Invest NI building – the setting for AC-12 HQ. There will be various stops across the City Centre including ‘Pelbury House’ the headquarters of the Central Police force which provided the backdrop of Ted Hastings famous peaked-cap adjustments; ‘Kingsgate Printing Services’, the building used as a front for members of the OCG (Organised Crime Gang); the Lorry Park where Kate shot Ryan Pilkington before doing a runner with Jo Davidson in Series 6 and of course the iconic Subway location, the favourite meeting point for Steve and Kate to have their secret rendezvous, and perhaps the most striking spot to get that LOD selfie!

There’ll be the chance to visit the sites of some of the most memorable car chases including the crash from Series 6 when DC Chloe and DI Arnott had been transporting Jimmy Lakewell from prison to AC-12 HQ to interrogate him when the police convoy was attacked by the OCG as well as the bridge where DI Fleming dramatically fired an assault riffle at a fleeing four-wheel drive, killing her dodgy partner and crime gang mole, Dot Cotton.

Other filming locations on the tour include Brentiss Prison which viewers watched prisoners being escorted to, including Detective Superintendent Jo Davidson after her arrest; Tresco Storage, the company used in Series 3 by Danny Waldron to store the decapitated head of Linus Murphy which was later discovered by Steve; and who could forget the incident in the opening episode of Series 6 that first made viewers suspect that DCI Davidson was a bent copper, when enroute to raid the address of a suspect in the murder of Gail Vella Hickies, she redirected the convoy to Hickey’s Bookmakers for what she ‘suspected’ was an armed robbery.

The Line of Duty Experience is £65pp and to book go to www.mccombscoaches.com or call 028 9086 6162.  

10 things to do in Northern Ireland  

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Here are ten exciting things taking place 5 – 11 September 2022  

  

  1. Armagh City Walking Tour Summer, Co. Armagh, 8 – 11 September.Armagh city is built against a backdrop of history, ranging from pre-historic origins to Georgian architecture which is clearly visible through its historic buildings and open spaces. Your tour guide will bring this history over the centuries to life during the walking tour which will last approx. 90 minutes. To book, visit: https://armagh-navancentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873625623    
  2. Belfast’s Window on Wildlife / Wild Gardens, Birds, Bugs and Ponds for European Heritage Open Days, Belfast, 10 – 11 September.Join the fun at Belfast’s WOW for a short talk for kids and grown-ups on wild gardening in the city, how to help wildlife in your own garden & how to make a wildlife-friendly compost. Plenty of interactive and educational activities, such as pond dipping and bug hunting, and some crafty time creating bird feeders, wildflower seed bombs, etc. Booking is essential. To book, visit: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/belfasts-window-on-wildlife/  
  3. Northern Ireland International Air Show, Portrush, Co. Antrim, 10 – 11 September 2022. The New NI International Air Show for 2022 will provide an enhanced viewing experience for spectators and increased exhibition viewings. The Coastal lands between Portrush and Portstewart will host ground attractions and spectators. The ground layout is more extensive, with multiple viewing points along the three mile stretch of the Borough’s coastline.  
  4. Beaghmore Stone Circles for European Heritage Open Days, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, 10 – 11 September 2022. Discovered during peat cutting in the 1940s the site at Beaghmoreconsists of 7 stone circles. All of the rings are associated with cairns and a stone row runs towards these cairns. Unlock the secret of the stars and stones with a direct descendant of the ancient tribes people of the Sperrins. Booking is essential.
  5. Navan Centre & Fort Tour for European Heritage Open Days, Armagh, Co. Armagh, 10 – 11 September 2022. Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary EmainCome and hear Dr Patrick Gleeson talk about recent excavations at this historically significant site. This tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, including a guided tour to Navan Fort (weather permitting) and a visit to the Iron Age dwelling area. Booking is essential.
  6. Devenish Ecclesiastical Site for European Heritage Open Days, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, 10 September 2022. Come and visit this ecclesiastical site on an island in Fermanagh for EHOD, an ambassador will be available to answer any of your questions. An island community founded in the 6th century by St Molaise, suffered Viking attack in 837 and burned in 1157. In the Middle Ages it flourished as the parish church and St Mary’s Augustinian Priory. Best known for its intact round tower, there is much to see and explore. Please note you will need to make your own ferry arrangements.
  7. Nendrum Monastic Site for European Heritage Open Days,Comber, Co. Down, 10 September 2022. Come and visit Nendrum Monastic Site during EHOD 2022, where guides will be present to enhance your experience as you marvel at the stunning views of Strangford Lough. Nendrum is associated with St Mochaoi who died at the end of the 5th century and is linked with St Patrick in a much later source. It is thought to be the best example of a pre-Norman monastic site in Northern Ireland. 
  8. Castle Ward – Living History Weekend for European Heritage Open Days, Strangford, Co. Down, 10 – 11 September 2022. Enjoy a tour of the house with audio interpretation and volunteer room stewards to impart information. There will also be costumed characters walking around the house and gardens throughout the day. Transport yourself back in time as you mingle with these colourful characters. Join them for themed activities and watch traditional crafts and skills brought to life.
  9. Festival Lough Erne Begins, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, 10-11 September 2022 (Continuing until 18 September).Festival Lough Erne is back for 2022! This year the festival celebrates Lough Erne and all it has to offer with a diverse range of activities spread right across Fermanagh’s waterways. The 2022 programme extends over a full week and offers an opportunity to experience the entire Fermanagh Lakelands offering. For more information and to book see festivallougherne.com or find them on social media #FestErne.  
  10. Visit Derry – Guided Walking Tour of the Walled City for European Heritage Open Days,Derry~Londonderry, 11 September 2022. Come along to Visit Derry Information Centre and join a walking tour on Sunday, 11th September at 13:00. Enjoy the day finding out about the 17th century walls, the first monastic settlement of St. Columba, the emigration story and recent political history. This free guided historical tour is a must for all. 

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.  

  

As part of Northern Ireland’s contribution to the European Heritage Days, this September more than 200 of Northern Ireland’s historic buildings and monuments, landmarks and hidden gems will open offering free entry with many activities for you to enjoy. European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) will take place from 5 – 11 September. The 2022 theme “Sustainable Heritage: Learn Use Enjoy” encourages us to consider the environment and its impact on our heritage, how we conserve our built and cultural heritage to develop a more sustainable future. To learn more about the activities, taking place, visit: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/arts-culture-and-heritage/european-heritage-open-days   

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com  

Newcastle Streets Get Ready for Eats & Beats

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Newcastle is gearing up to host Visit Mourne’s brand new Eats and Beats festival this weekend from Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September.  With two food villages and three stages, it will be jam-packed with celebrity chefs, special events, live music, street performers, family fun, and a world of cuisine.

Festival goers can browse more than 60 food, drink, arts and crafts stalls at the Homegrown and World food villages in Donard Park and Castle Park.  Villages will be open from 11am to 8.30pm on Saturday and 11am to 7.45pm on Sunday. The Newcastle Artisan Market, located outside the Newcastle Centre, running from 11am-3pm on Saturday only.  As if that isn’t enough there will also be lots of family fun activities, a sustainability village and a series of fringe events taking place this weekend. 

Visitors can also sit back and relax with a drink at one of the bars located in each of the food villages while being treated to an incredible array of performances offering an eclectic mix of styles and genres that is sure to create a big festival vibe across the seaside town. Live music at the Homegrown stage in Donard Park, the World Music stage in Castle Park and the Rising Stage on the Promenade starts each day from 12noon – be sure to check the various artists set times at visitmournemountains.co.uk.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “Newry, Mourne and Down is becoming well known for the quality of its catering outlets, food produce, microbreweries and distillers and it has long had a strong track record for producing talented and successful musicians.  It is therefore timely that the Council through its tourism arm, Visit Mourne, is hosting a festival which showcases its strongest assets in one of the district’s most beautiful locations.  All roads will be leading to Newcastle this weekend as the Eats & Beats festival finishes off the Council’s summer events programme on a high.”

On the Homegrown stage in Donard Park its two day line up will be hosted by QRadio presenter, comedian and DJ Ryan Hand.  Award-winning band, Kíla, heralded as one of Ireland’s most innovative and exciting bands, will headline the stage on Saturday evening.  While The Undertones, known for one of the best punk anthems of all time – ‘Teenage Kicks’, will rock Newcastle on Sunday evening and delight crowds as they belt out their famous hits.

Anyone looking for something different will find it at the World Food Village and Stage in Castle Park where you can lose yourself in the vibes of Brazilian Samba, Indian Bhangra, Latin, African and many other traditional music forms from bands such as The Mons Wheeler, the Streetwise Samba Band, the Balkan band, Basork whose fusion ensemble draws on Irish, European and Middle Eastern music and the Belfast Community Gospel Choir (BCGC). Award-winning Irish singer/songwriters, Zoe Conway and John McIntyre can also be found on the World music stage on Saturday afternoon.

The Rising Stage at The Promenade will host new and upcoming acts including singer-songwriter RUE who will join indie-folk duo, Lathya and Downpatrick’s own indie/alternative rock band, The Thing Is.  Parker, Winnie Ama, Jack Devlin and Dark Tropics will also take to the stage over the two-day event.

For anyone travelling to Newcastle, there will be a Park and Walk located at Bryansford GAC and a Park and Ride will operate from the Northfield site on both days.  Toilets and disabled amenities will be located across the site while Changing Places facilities can be found at Donard Park.

Stay tuned to the Visit Mourne Facebook and Twitter pages where the full festival line-up, carparking and other important festival information will be posted throughout the weekend. Further information on where to stay, eat, and things to do during your stay can be found at visitmournemountains.co.uk.

Relive The Golden Age Of Steam At Whitehead Railway Museum

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Families that are exploring the land shaped by sea and stone this summer may want to plan a trip to Whitehead Railway Museum. Promising an immersive, family-friendly experience throughout its five impressive and interactive galleries, guests will be able to rub shoulders with the giants of the steam age.

Thanks to the development of Whitehead’s railway lines by Belfast and Northern Counties Railway Company, and offers of free first-class tickets to those who moved there, people flocked in their thousands to Whitehead in the 20th Century. Since opening Whitehead Railway Museum in 2017, the site is once again attracting tourists to the picturesque seaside town.

The location of the museum dates back to 1903 when the railway opened a second platform for day trippers to allow for a separate train to head directly to the boat at Larne harbour. Then, as now, Whitehead is the only place in Ireland with two train stations.

“The railway companies were impressive marketers before marketing was a thing. They built hotels such as the Slieve Donard in Newcastle, the Laharna in Larne and the Northern Counties in Portrush to entice travel, as well as developing The Gobbins Cliff Path,” said Robin. 

Robin Morton, one of more than 100 volunteers at the museum, explained that there is much more happening around the site to make it a living, breathing museum.

“The museum is wrapped around our foundry and heavy engineering workshop so you can actually see volunteers at work on the steam engines and undertaking carriage restoration work. 

“Visitors on our tours have a truly sensory experience, and with our locomotives being repaired or undergoing regular maintenance work we plan for them to be here for a very long time to come,” Robin explained.

The museum also serves as the headquarters of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI), which boasts 1,200 members on the island of Ireland, GB and across the world and began in Whitehead back in 1966.

“A range of historical stock was tucked away in sheds including an engine from 1879 and carriage from 1911 just waiting for the public to discover,” said Robin. 

“To be able to open them up to the public proved how much interest there is.”

Additionally there is a station building with a tea room, stables gallery with education centre, locomotive and carriage sheds, a carriage gallery where visitors can board locomotives and sit in the driver’s seat and the machine workshop. 

With five galleries, interactive exhibits and a 60ft working locomotive turntable the museum continues to develop from when it first opened in 2017, welcoming in a new generation of train-loving tourists.

“Among the exhibits is the actual carriage used by the Queen in 1953, to travel around Northern Ireland,” explained Robin.

“There was a nice follow-on to that in 2016 when the Queen visited here again; she expressed a lovely memory about Benone Strand.

“We were able to provide the same carriage and the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh were able to travel on that same stretch of line from Kilrea to Bellareena. She said it brought back happy memories to her.

“In addition we have the Irish state carriage that was used by the ex-President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, which Irish Rail gifted to us for the museum.”

As well as the museum the RPSI normally runs regular ‘Museum on the Move’ events with seasonal steam train excursions at Easter, Hallowe’en and Christmas.

“We also run the Steam & Jazz specials on Friday evenings in June and July, plus the Portrush Flyer to the north coast on Sundays in August and the Steam Enterprise to Dublin. Unfortunately, these were halted by the pandemic but we hope to be back on track soon,” said Robin. 

“We will however still be operating short trips aboard a steam train on Saturdays during July and August. Steam engine No. 3BG Guinness, named after the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, will be in action at the museum from 12noon to 4pm. The locomotive, which was built over 100 years ago, is the star of the show when it hauls train rides up and down the museum’s main line.

“As part of the ‘Steam Saturdays’ visitors can see at close hand how this magnificent machine works. You can chat with the driver and fireman and see the footplate, the structure where the driver and fireman stand to operate the steam train.” 

Visitors can indulge their nostalgia and experience a different era through the museum’s guided 75-minute tours, which is a chance to hear locally told stories of the town’s development into a popular railway town. For those keen to explore self-guided, the museum offers a downloadable audio guide for smartphones. 

As well as the tours of the museum they also host events throughout the year including a Teddy Bears Picnic, an Easter Egg Hunt, European Heritage Open Days and a themed train day for Whitehead’s annual Victorian Street Fair, held in November. 

As a major attraction on the Causeway Coastal Route, the museum is just 30 minutes from Belfast, and if you travel by train to Whitehead with Northern Ireland Railways, you will receive a 20% discount. 

Whitehead Railway Museum welcome those of all ages to come along and meet their new mascot, Harvey the Teddy Bear, nicknamed after RH Smith Locomotive. Miniature stuffed versions of Harvey are available to purchase, along with Harvey’s new children’s book which was published in December 2020. 

For those seeking a bit of nostalgia, or perhaps those wanting to imagine themselves boarding the Hogwarts Express, a visit to the Whitehead Railway Museum is a must for the ultimate family-friendly experience.

For opening hours or to learn more about the museum, or book tickets visit steamtrainsireland.com/museum-tickets

European Ploughing Championships & European Vintage Ploughing Championships Competitors Announced For This Weekend’s Competition

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Competitors from all over Europe have started to arrive in Northern Ireland for the European Ploughing Championships, European Vintage Ploughing Championships and Horse Ploughing competition.

Hailing from Wales, England, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, the Isle of Man, Belgium, Denmark, Switzerland, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the competitors are set to compete at Shackelton Barracks in Ballykelly this Friday and Saturday (2-3 Sept).

Set to be a family friendly fun-packed event, trade stands, horse ploughing exhibitions, children’s entertainment, crafts stalls and a vintage display are among a range of attractions that will be available onsite throughout the two day competition.

Adrian Jamison, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association said: “We are delighted to be bringing the European Ploughing Championships back to Northern Ireland and to be able to welcome our fellow ploughmen from across Europe to Ballykelly.

“We intend to have a great event and welcome back the Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster Fencing and Soil Assessment competitions. There will be something for the whole family to enjoy with horse ploughing, a vintage display, children’s attractions and lots of trade stands and a craft area.”

The event is hosted by the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association, the governing body of competition ploughing across Northern Ireland uniting 21 affiliated ploughing societies across the country with approximately 500 members.

Northern Ireland Ploughing Association president William King said: “The highlight of this weekend will be bringing the top ploughing talent together to compete to become European Champions both with modern day and yesteryear machinery.

“May I wish the spectators, exhibitors and all who have contributed to this event, a successful and enjoyable Championship.”

This year over 100 competitors are set to compete in seven different categories: World Style Reversible, World Style Conventional, Vintage Class, Horse Class and Horse Style & Appearance Class. 

The Northern Ireland Ploughing Association’s key mission is to bridge the gap between the older generation and the younger. 

Adrian explained that hosting events like the European Ploughing Championships helps people within the farming community “to congregate and meet as well as people in the local areas who are just interested in finding out a bit more about the agricultural traditions here in Northern Ireland.”

European Ploughing Federation, President John Hill said: “It is now over three years since the last European Reversible Ploughing Championships were held, after being forced to cancel in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“We are now delighted to be able to go ahead with the event this weekend in Northern Ireland.

“The Championships could not be held without the hard work and dedication of the team of volunteers behind the scenes, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association and their supporters for hosting the competition this year.

“I would like to wish all the competitors the very best of luck for this year.”

The European Ploughing Championships take place at Shackleton Barracks in Ballykelly, Co Derry/Londonderry, on Friday and Saturday, September 2-3, 2022.

More information can be found at niploughing.com or at facebook.com/niploughing 

History’s Footprint At The Londonderry Arms

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From its connections to Winston Churchill through to its Georgian origins, the Londonderry Arms hotel in Carnlough offers an insight into the past in 21st Century comfort, featuring the best of fare and a warm welcome which has made sure locals and tourists keep coming back.

Owned by Denise O’Neill, the hotel has been in the family for more than 70 years. The buildings history and character are the key to the Londonderry Arms story but put together with the 35 individually designed, en-suite bedrooms, locally sourced food and drink offerings and a family run ethos, it creates a community feeling, whether you are a resident of Northern Ireland, or a traveller from the United States or Germany.

Part of the charm comes from the fact that the Londonderry Arms is not part of a large identikit chain so attracts locals alongside independent travellers and tour operators.

The long history goes back to it being constructed in 1848, and helps explain the name of a hotel 58 miles from Londonderry.

“It was built as a Coaching Inn by Frances Anne Vane Tempest, the Marchioness of Londonderry – hence the name,” explained Denise. “After Lady Londonderry passed away, the hotel was eventually inherited in 1921 by her great-grandson, Sir Winston Churchill who subsequently sold it two years later to help fund the purchase and development of his Chartwell estate.”

With the popularity of local whiskey, the hotel features the Arkle whiskey bar, which has a range of Northern Ireland and Scottish whiskeys, including some of the top rated in these isles. Named after the legendary steeplechaser, the bar is host to a unique collection of Arkle memorabilia, including one of Arkle’s horseshoes that can be rubbed for good luck. Here, Arkle offers a winning toast to the ‘water of life’.

“It is the actual horseshoe worn when Arkle won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1965 in the second of his three consecutive Gold Cup wins,” explained Denise. 

The dining experience at The Londonderry Arms is so renowned that it is also a featured stop on the Toast the Coast food tour. Diners are encouraged to book ahead as demand is high.

“We are a founding member of Taste of Ulster. People come here for the food – locals and visitors alike,” said Denise. The Londonderry Arms strives to include local produce within each of their dishes, from lamb reared in The Glens to the world renowned Glenarm Salmon.

Hoping to keep tradition alive with their own local artisan twist, The Londonderry Arms also offer Afternoon Tea, a treat said to have been enjoyed by Lady Londonderry back in 1848. 

As well as the range of whiskeys their commitment to local includes a range of Hillstown and Glens of Antrim craft beers and a variety of gins.

As the heart of Carnlough, staff at The Londonderry Arms look forward to once again hosting events and holidaymakers for many generations to come.

To book a stay or obtain more information on dining experiences visit www.londonderryarmshotel.com.

Northern Ireland Competitors Get Ready To Take On Europe In European Vintage Ploughing Championships

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Four Northern Ireland ploughmen are set to compete against seven visiting countries at the forthcoming European Vintage Ploughing Championships this week.

Dai Kennedy, Mercer Ward, Mark Taggart and Ian Simms will test their skills against 29 other ploughmen from Wales, England, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, the Isle of Man, Belgium, Denmark, and Scotland at Shakelton Barracks in Ballykelly on Friday September 2 and Saturday September 3.

Adrian Jamison, chair of hosts the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association said he was delighted to see such a strong representation from Northern Ireland competing.

He added, “After competing in 18 European competitions myself, it is exciting to welcome everyone to Northern Ireland. This will be the first time everyone has been together after Covid and we are looking forward to welcoming our international guests to Ballykelly.”

Taking to the ploughs for Northern Ireland are Listooder farmer Dai Kennedy, 71, who will be competing on a MF135 tractor & Ransome TS86 plough.

Dai said: “Ploughing was always something I did with my Father, he was heavily involved in the Listooder & District Ploughing Society. He passed away when I was 13 but his interest and enjoyment of it has always stuck with me.

“I think I was about 10 years old in the first match I ploughed in, but even then I was only steering the tractor. It really is something you fall in love with and it really stays with you.

“I last took part in the championships in 2019, just before the world was put on hold. It meant I drifted away from it a little bit. It makes me very proud to represent Northern Ireland in any way I can. It gives me a lift, no matter how well it goes. I enjoy it immensely and I’m looking forward to getting back to it after a long three years.”

Competing on a Fordson Dexta Tractor & Ransome TS81 plough will be 69 year old Hillsborough building contractor Mercer Ward who said he was looking forward to representing Northern Ireland at the match.

He added: “Ploughing is a difficult task that needs a lot of practice, seeing as I’m not a farmer I try to better my skills by helping my three brothers on their farm with the silage and harvest. I’ll be trying to win, although it will be great to see everyone come to Northern Ireland.”

Cogry based mechanical engineer Mark Taggart, 56, is set to take to the ploughs on an International B250 tractor & Ransome RSLD N.12.

Mark said: “When I was younger, I would always join my uncle in ploughing matches, vintage ploughing matches in particular, and the atmosphere was always great fun. Experiencing that upclose from such a young age is really what got me interested in taking part myself.

“My uncle’s encouragement, coaching and passing on of his skills has had a big impact on my own ploughing experiences. I’m just looking forward to producing the best plot of the day, keeping the conditions in mind. It’s all about making the best of it.”

Also competing is Carrickfergus based farmer and agricultural contractor Ian Simms, 40, with an International B275 tractor & RansomeTS59 plough.

Set to be a family friendly fun-packed event, trade stands, horse ploughing exhibitions, children’s entertainment, crafts stalls and a vintage display are among a range of attractions that will be available onsite.

The Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster will also be in attendance as they compete in fencing and soil assessment competitions; alongside a range of entertainment traders, including bouncy castles, slides, and a rodeo bull.

The event is hosted by the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association, the governing body of competition ploughing across Northern Ireland uniting 21 affiliated ploughing societies across the country with approximately 500 members.

Chair Adrian Jamison added: “We are indebted to this year’s sponsors and supporters of the event including Fane Valley, Ulster Farmers Union and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs as well as McKelvey Bros in Ballynahinch. We are grateful for their support during these difficult times.”

With the key mission of bridging the gap between the older and younger generations, the affiliated societies run ploughing matches across the country each year for ploughmen to qualify for the opportunity to compete in the Northern Ireland International Ploughing Championships. The ploughmen at this event have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland at the World, European Reversible and European Vintage Ploughing Championships.

The European Ploughing Championships take place at Shakleton Barracks in Ballykelly, Co Derry/Londonderry, on Friday and Saturday, September 2-3, 2022.

More information can be found at niploughing.com or at facebook.com/niploughing

Northern Ireland Competitors Get Ready To Take On Europe In European Vintage Ploughing Championships

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Four Northern Ireland ploughmen are set to compete against seven visiting countries at the forthcoming European Vintage Ploughing Championships this week.

Dai Kennedy, Mercer Ward, Mark Taggart and Ian Simms will test their skills against 29 other ploughmen from Wales, England, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, the Isle of Man, Belgium, Denmark, and Scotland at Shakelton Barracks in Ballykelly on Friday September 2 and Saturday September 3.

Adrian Jamison, chair of hosts the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association said he was delighted to see such a strong representation from Northern Ireland competing.

He added, “After competing in 18 European competitions myself, it is exciting to welcome everyone to Northern Ireland. This will be the first time everyone has been together after Covid and we are looking forward to welcoming our international guests to Ballykelly.”

Taking to the ploughs for Northern Ireland are Listooder farmer Dai Kennedy, 71, who will be competing on a MF135 tractor & Ransome TS86 plough.

Dai said: “Ploughing was always something I did with my Father, he was heavily involved in the Listooder & District Ploughing Society. He passed away when I was 13 but his interest and enjoyment of it has always stuck with me.

“I think I was about 10 years old in the first match I ploughed in, but even then I was only steering the tractor. It really is something you fall in love with and it really stays with you.

“I last took part in the championships in 2019, just before the world was put on hold. It meant I drifted away from it a little bit. It makes me very proud to represent Northern Ireland in any way I can. It gives me a lift, no matter how well it goes. I enjoy it immensely and I’m looking forward to getting back to it after a long three years.”

Competing on a Fordson Dexta Tractor & Ransome TS81 plough will be 69 year old Hillsborough building contractor Mercer Ward who said he was looking forward to representing Northern Ireland at the match.

He added: “Ploughing is a difficult task that needs a lot of practice, seeing as I’m not a farmer I try to better my skills by helping my three brothers on their farm with the silage and harvest. I’ll be trying to win, although it will be great to see everyone come to Northern Ireland.”

Cogry based mechanical engineer Mark Taggart, 56, is set to take to the ploughs on an International B250 tractor & Ransome RSLD N.12.

Mark said: “When I was younger, I would always join my uncle in ploughing matches, vintage ploughing matches in particular, and the atmosphere was always great fun. Experiencing that upclose from such a young age is really what got me interested in taking part myself.

“My uncle’s encouragement, coaching and passing on of his skills has had a big impact on my own ploughing experiences. I’m just looking forward to producing the best plot of the day, keeping the conditions in mind. It’s all about making the best of it.”

Also competing is Carrickfergus based farmer and agricultural contractor Ian Simms, 40, with an International B275 tractor & RansomeTS59 plough.

Set to be a family friendly fun-packed event, trade stands, horse ploughing exhibitions, children’s entertainment, crafts stalls and a vintage display are among a range of attractions that will be available onsite.

The Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster will also be in attendance as they compete in fencing and soil assessment competitions; alongside a range of entertainment traders, including bouncy castles, slides, and a rodeo bull.

The event is hosted by the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association, the governing body of competition ploughing across Northern Ireland uniting 21 affiliated ploughing societies across the country with approximately 500 members.

Chair Adrian Jamison added: “We are indebted to this year’s sponsors and supporters of the event including Fane Valley, Ulster Farmers Union and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs as well as McKelvey Bros in Ballynahinch. We are grateful for their support during these difficult times.”

With the key mission of bridging the gap between the older and younger generations, the affiliated societies run ploughing matches across the country each year for ploughmen to qualify for the opportunity to compete in the Northern Ireland International Ploughing Championships. The ploughmen at this event have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland at the World, European Reversible and European Vintage Ploughing Championships.

The European Ploughing Championships take place at Shakleton Barracks in Ballykelly, Co Derry/Londonderry, on Friday and Saturday, September 2-3, 2022.More information can be found at niploughing.com or at facebook.com/niploughing

You SHALL go to the Ball this Christmas… at the Grand Opera House Pantomime!

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Grab your glass slippers, your carriage awaits as the home of pantomime in Northern Ireland this year stages the much-loved classic Cinderella.

With an award-winning creative team at the helm, over 35,000 tickets have already been sold for the biggest show of Northern Ireland’s Christmas season.

Cinderella opens at the Grand Opera House on Saturday 3 December 2022 and runs until Sunday 15 January 2023. Children and adults alike can expect laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses with Belfast’s favourite Fairy Godmother May McFettridge, who this year celebrates a record-breaking 32 Grand Opera House pantomime seasons.

May is joined on stage by Paddy Jenkins, who was last seen on the Theatre’s stage in March in Give My Head Peace, as Baron Hardup.

Returning to the Grand Opera House panto following their appearance in last year’s sell-out run of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Adam C Booth plays Buttons opposite Kia-Paris Walcott in the title role.

Jo Donnelly, who played Mummy Bear last year, is joined by Jolene O’Hara as the vile Wicked Stepsisters, and Lisburn’s Gyasi Sheppy plays Dandini, who in 2021 landed his dream job as one of the presenters of CBeebies.

Completing the line-up, Conor Headley, originally from Lurgan, a graduate of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and a former participant of the Grand Opera House’s summer youth production, takes on the role of Prince Charming.

“Northern Ireland’s biggest Christmas show warrants a top-drawer cast and the best creative team to bring alive from page to stage the most magical pantomime of them all,” said Ian Wilson, Chief Executive of the Grand Opera House.

“Since the Theatre opened in 1895, generations of families have made the Grand Opera House pantomime part of their Christmas festivities, and with over 75,000 expected to attend during the six-week run, book your seats now otherwise not even your Fairy Godmother will be able to magic you a ticket!”

The Grand Opera House pantomime is staged by Olivier award-winning producer Michael Harrison on behalf of Crossroads, the biggest pantomime producer in the world. As well as producing the recent production of Bedknobs and Broomsticks at the Grand Opera House, Michael has produced the current UK and Ireland tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat which runs at the Theatre in October, and he is creating his seventh consecutive London Palladium pantomime this year.

Cinderella is directed and choreographed by Jonny Bowles, who won Best Choreography for Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the 2022 Pantomime Awards, and lighting design is by
Ben Cracknell, whose recent designs include the West End production of The Drifters Girl and the national tours of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Osmonds, The Cher Show, and the 2022 Olivier Awards at the Royal Albert Hall.

Michael Harrison, producer of Cinderella, said: “We’re delighted today to be announcing such a fabulous cast for the Grand Opera House’s pantomime. We’re currently working on a script packed full of laughter for all the family and know that Crossroads’ pantomime in Belfast will be something very special for young and old alike.”

Northern Ireland’s biggest pantomime will once again be sponsored by Dale Farm, who are delighted to share the joy of panto again this year.

For the Grand Opera House pantomime performance schedule and tickets, visit: goh.co.uk

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