Month: May 2023

Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded internationally coveted UNESCO Geopark status.

The UNESCO Executive Board met in Paris on Wednesday 24 May and announced that Mourne Gullion Strangford had been welcomed into its network of global Geoparks, making it one of only 18 outstanding landscapes worldwide to be awarded full accreditation this year.

The landscape encompasses Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Mourne, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough and Lecale.

Mourne Gullion Strangford’s varied and beautiful landscape has been shaped over aeons by the collision of continents, the appearance and disappearance of oceans, through tumultuous volcanic events, and the rough treatment of ice ages. It has shaped a rich biodiversity and a vibrant cultural life, which the new Geopark will celebrate.

It is unique amongst UNESCO Global Geoparks as it tells ‘A Tale of Two Oceans’ across 400 million years of geological history. The geology of the area charts the closure of the ancient Iapetus Ocean, which brought together the island of Ireland’s two parts. It follows the island drifting with the continents through tropical latitudes and then welcomes the birth of the modern North Atlantic Ocean. Finally, the last glaciation carved this ancient landscape into the fantastic place we see today. No other UNESCO Global Geoparks has such a range of geological characteristics or can tell this story.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said he was delighted that Geopark status was confirmed. “The status of the Geopark is hard won; since 2012 the Council’s Geopark project, in partnership with the Geological Survey Northern Ireland, has worked on an intense engagement programme with residents and stakeholders,” he said. “As a result, everyone involved is delighted that Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG) status in recognition of this work and the extraordinary landscape it praises. It puts us on the world stage and firmly on people’s bucket lists of places they must see.”

A Geopark is a single unified geographical area, in this case, stretching from the waters of Strangford across the Mourne Mountains to the Ring of Gullion and beyond. A Geopark is a landscape that is managed holistically for the protection of its geology, the education of its people and visitors, and the sustainable development of its businesses. The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is about working together to make the most of our beautiful landscape through sustainable tourism, biodiversity improvements, geological education and sustainably managed outdoor recreation.

Talking about what makes Mourne Gullion Strangford unique, Chairperson Cllr Savage said, “The status of UNESCO Global Geopark demonstrates that our landscape is of global significance and is sustainably managed.

All the global geoparks have internationally important geology. But the community-led partnerships promoting an appreciation of natural and cultural heritage make our Geopark stand out.

“One of the fundamental Geopark principles is geological risk mitigation. One distinctive Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark project is the fantastic dune restoration project at Tyrella Beach near Downpatrick. This tourist hotspot was at serious risk of erosion due to the loss of its dunes until local volunteers and Geopark staff got together with homegrown charity, ‘True Harvest Seeds’, to gather, grow and plant native dune grasses to capture the blowing sand. Within just a month of starting this project, there is already visible dune regrowth, protecting not only the lovely smooth tourist beach of Tyrella itself but the low-lying land behind it too.”

Councillor Michael Savage continued, “Geoparks are, above all else, about local people; without their passion and enthusiasm, they cannot thrive or flourish. Much work is needed to ensure this award delivers what we need: a sustainable community and a local economy boosted through conservation, education, interpretation and sustainable and regenerative tourism. I have great confidence that the people and businesses of this district will work together to make the most of their beautiful landscape.”

Speaking after the award was announced, Laura Davies, Ambassador to UNESCO, added, “UNESCO Global Geoparks rightly enjoy strong international recognition.  Years of hard work, often behind the scenes, is recognised through impeccable independent accreditation.

“The new Mourne Gullion Geopark celebrates the story of our past, written into the land through geological processes; and focuses on the future of that landscape as it will be written by its people.

“The best UNESCO designations bring communities, sustainable development and conservation together in real, grass-roots partnerships. From small, local projects celebrating local geo-food, such as planting a community orchard in Newcastle, to major landscape-scale tasks like managing erosion on the peaks of the Mournes and the slopes of Slieve Gullion, the UK’s newest Geopark does this in spades.

“My warmest congratulations to all those involved in making it a reality!”

Marie Cowan, Director of the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, commented, “The tale of two oceans is clearly told in the unique geology of Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The variety of landscapes included in the Geopark designates the area as a global attraction for geological and landscape-based tourism and education. To be able to see landscapes formed over 400 million years within such a compact area is exceptional, and the variety and sheer beauty of this Geopark make it one of a kind.”

A special day of celebration took place on the 25 May on the shores of Carlingford Lough at Cranfield and a packed programme of events and activities will take place throughout the year across the Geopark.

Perhaps the brightest musical light to ever emerge from the Roe Valley Region of the North-West, is finally making her debut at Stendhal Festival this summer.

Cara Dillon, described by Mojo magazine as having “quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice,” has seen major success in her outstanding career which has spanned almost 30 years.

She has seven critically acclaimed solo albums to her name, a bountiful haul of awards, including BBC Folk Awards, Meteor Music Awards and Hotpress awards and this July, Cara will perform for the first time at Stendhal Festival, an event that thrives in highlighting indigenous talent. In terms of the festival’s base around Limavady and the Roe Valley, there is no more an acclaimed home-grown performer than Cara Dillon.

Cara’s formative years were spent in Dungiven, where she says music was a way of life and a means for people to deal with the ongoing troubles present in 70’s and 80’s Ulster.

“Music was a big part of my life growing up in Dungiven and as a result all my friends played instruments or sang a wee bit, “she said.

“We were all taught fiddle or whistle in school and I took Irish dancing lessons as well. I suppose the culture became a really important totem of identity during the troubles when so many civil rights were being eroded or ignored.

In Dungiven I was swept up in the passion for the culture and I thank my lucky stars I was.”

Her Pathway to musical success began with her family, the youngest of six siblings, Cara says that music was a staple of her household.

“We were playing the records of the 80’s day and night in our house,” she recalled, “it was the days when we all watched Top of the Pops and one of my first records was the mini pops and Olivia Newton John. But at the same time my sister, Mary, was playing Paul Brady, Moving Hearts, Planxty and The Bothy Band amongst others, and we listened to Dolores Keane and Mary Black on the tape player on every holiday.

“From that initial love of music, and my sister teaching me a thing or two it was really the Fleadhs, the workshops and the competitions where I learned how to sing. I never had singing lessons but I was taught the songs I sang by the legendary Paddy Tunney amongst others.”

Cara would go on to excel at performing and she won the All-Ireland singing trophy at the Fleadh at 14 years old. This opened a lot of musical doors for a young Cara, who would go on to join a teenage folk band called Óige.

It was during this time that Cara first started to think to herself that music was a viable career choice.

“I realised after a tour in Germany with my teenage folk band Óige that one of the biggest parts of being a professional musician was definitely being able to thole the touring and I really enjoyed it and it got me thinking it would be a grand thing to do this for a living. I think I was about 16 or 17 years old,” she said.

From that epiphany at such a young age, Cara’s talent and determination took over and she carved out a fast-rising career but it was her win at the Meteor Music Prize for Best Irish Female in 2004 that made her understand just how successful she had become.

“Winning the Meteor Award for Best Irish Female in 2003 was so exciting and important for me at the time. I felt I had finally ‘arrived’ and that my hard work and all the sacrifices I made had been worth it as I had been given a stamp of approval in my own country and it meant the world to me. There have been other awards that have had more of an impact on my career, but that’s a different thing.”

Now living England, Cara says that she keeps incredibly close ties to home saying:

“I’m never off the phone to my family no matter where I am and I try to get home as often as I can in between gigs and my busy family home life. Sure, what’s it all about if you can’t get home?”

The next time Cara comes home will be for her hotly anticipated debut at Stendhal Festival on Saturday, July 8^th a gig she says she will be incredibly proud to finally play.

“I’m so proud there is a fantastic festival just down the road from my homeplace. In England there are so many festivals and I really notice when I’m back home the lack of festivals here in the North. I love hearing from friends and family who is playing each year and love that is has grown from strength to strength. I can’t wait to finally see it all for myself.”

Despite this being her first Stendhal appearance Cara is no stranger to performing at Festivals all over the world.

“I love preforming at festivals. There’s usually a party-like atmosphere. I particularly enjoy the fact that I can do one uninterrupted set and it’s usually all my favourites, a bit of an indulgence.

“However, the downside to this is that it’s over quickly and you are off the stage before you realise what just happened, as an artist this can be quite frustrating when you are just getting warmed up to it all. Also, you’re rarely playing to your own crowd so there’s aways a desire to “win the crowd” which helps everyone perform that little bit better.

“I have spent the last 25 years doing a wide variety of festivals in the UK and Europe and it never fails to amaze me how it’s a great opportunity for people to come together and share not just a couple of nights of music but sometimes a whole week.

“It’s not just the music that is so great but the food, the crafts, the art and the way it brings people together in an almost tribal way. It’s a fantastic way to escape the everyday – work, suits and ties, school, chores. And more than anything it’s a great leveller, everyone can be free to be themselves under the sky or stars.”

Beyond Stendhal, Cara also has an exciting new project called “Coming Home” in the works. It features spoken word and singing and features the most personal lyrics she says she has ever written. “Coming home” will be showcased on a UK tour this autumn with a very special concert in the Grand Opera House in Belfast on October 18th.

Cara Dillon performs at Stendhal Festival this July 8^th. For more information visit www.stendhalfestival.com.

Preparations for Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne are well underway and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is delighted to announce there will be a historic 21 Gun Salute to mark the King’s official birthday.

Taking place at Sandy Bay Playing Fields in Larne from 10am on Saturday 17 June, Armed Forces Day 2023 will be an action-packed day filled with something for the whole family!

One of the highlights on the day will be the gun salute to mark this special occasion.  Gun salutes have existed for centuries with the firing of guns or firearms seen as a mark of respect on special occasions or as a military honour.

Other entertainment on the day will include a performance from the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment, a fantastic military village, interactive & static military displays, a parachute display by Silver Stars Royal Logistics Corp and a RAF display team featuring a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire and Hurricane.

There will also be an Army Air Corp Gazelle helicopter (static display), a RAF Police Military working dogs display, children’s entertainment, an Ulster Aviation Society static display and Science Technology Engineering Maths (STEM) competition

Taking to the stage will be talented musicians from The Music Yard in Larne, The Swingtime Starlets and righteous rock and soul brothers The Gold Tips.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, said: “I am so looking forward to Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne and particularly the 21 gun salute to mark the reigning Monarch’s birthday.  It will be a very special occasion this year as it’s the first time they will be fired for His Majesty King Charles III.

“This is an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors to play a part in the birthday celebrations, plus there will be so much more entertainment throughout the day for all ages. Come along, join in the fun and help us recognise the honourable service of the Armed Forces, both past and present.”

The event will begin with a parade to the venue and a Drumhead service, concluding that evening with a Beating Retreat finale.

Further information about Armed Forces Day, together with a travel plan for the event, can be found at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/AFD.

Bangor Seafront will be a hive of activity next month when the Sea Bangor Festival returns on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 June.

Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, with support from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) and Bangor Marina, thousands of visitors from the Borough and beyond are expected to descend on the seaside city over the two days in what will be one of Bangor’s busiest weekends of the year!

The popular maritime festival will open from 12noon until 6pm on both days, with a host of entertainment and activities for all the family, including an exciting visit by the Artemis eFoiler, HMS Penzance and HMS Raider!

The 12-metre Artemis eFoiler is the world’s first high-speed, fully electric foiling commercial vessel. Plans are in place for the vessel to operate a pilot service between Bangor and Belfast next year and this is an early opportunity for the public to see it in action on Bangor’s shores. On-the-water demonstrations are scheduled to take place at 1.30pm and 3.30pm on the Saturday and Sunday, with the best viewing opportunities available from the Seacliff Road.

Also on the water and available for viewing will be a Sandown-class Royal Navy minehunter vessel, HMS Penzance. After it docks at Eisenhower Pier, members of the public will have the opportunity to climb aboard for self-guided tours between 12noon and 4pm on the Saturday, providing a closer look at a vessel that is used to survey shipping routes and clear the way for military operations. Pre-booking is essential.

HMS Raider, a small patrol boat from Scotland, will be moored beside HMS Penzance. HMS Raider is one of two Archer-class patrol boats that form the Faslane Patrol Boat Squadron. Together with her sister ship, HMS Tracker, she provides reassurance and protection in and around HM Naval Base Clyde.

Keeping with the maritime theme, there will be lots more activities on the water too. E-Foiling demos will show how an electric powered surfboard on a hydrofoil wing can lift almost one metre out of the water. There will also be plenty of ‘have a go’ sessions as well, with free paddleboarding and kayaking taster sessions at Eisenhower Pier that can be pre-booked, plus the return of the popular rowing competition where local teams will compete for the top prize.

Back on dry land, Quay Street car park will take on a distinct holiday atmosphere with the return of the Urban Beach, funfair rides and outside bar. Families will be able to enjoy a seaside ‘rave’ and then relax before heading to the pier for some delicious food demos, hot food trucks, seasonal bar, and the popular on-water activities.

Helping everyone get around will be a free land train that will operate from the McKee Clock to Pickie Fun Park throughout the weekend. Make sure you don’t miss out on all the fun and visit Bangor Seafront on 3 and 4 June from 12noon to 6pm!

For more information, including details on how to book free ‘have a go’ sessions and self-guided tours on HMS Penzance, go to visitardsandnorthdown.com/seabangor.

The hugely successful Armagh Craft Fair is back for the 11th year at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre with our largest number of fantastic artists and makers to date.

There is an exciting programme of creative activities throughout the day for visitors of all ages to enjoy, making this year’s Craft Fair a definite date for your diary!

The venue will transform into a vibrant hub of high-quality craft, art and design activity for the day. Visitors can shop at over 50 craft stalls from maker’s nationwide, experience traditional and contemporary craft demonstrations with some hands-on craft-making opportunities. You will find printed and woven textiles, jewellery, wood, fine art, leather, glass, soaps, candles, ceramics and artisan foods. Come early and start your day by taking part in a range of short creative workshops.

Children will enjoy getting creative at the FREE drop-in art sessions throughout the day making this fun event a must for all families.

Live musical performances during the Fair will keep you entertained as you shop for beautiful craft products, relax with a refreshing drink or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

We look forward to welcoming you to experience and explore what’s on offer.

This year’s Craft Fair will run from 10.30am to 4.30pm at The Market Place Theatre. Entrance is free, as are all craft demonstrations. For further information, bookings and to download the full programme go to www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre You can also follow developments on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) for the latest information and video previews.

Eats and Beats Festival, Newcastle, Co Down, 2nd & 3rd September

The Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle is a celebration of food and music that brings together the best of both worlds. From delicious local cuisine to live performances by some of the hottest acts around, this festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves great food and great music.

As one of the largest festivals of its kind in the region, Eats and Beats draws thousands of visitors each year who come to sample the incredible food and soak up the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or a music lover in search of your next favourite band, this festival has something for everyone.

With its stunning coastal setting, Newcastle provides the perfect backdrop for this vibrant event. From the charming streets of the town to the rugged beauty of the nearby mountains, there’s no shortage of picturesque views to enjoy. And with an array of food vendors and musical acts on hand, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

So, if you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend that combines great food, fantastic music, and beautiful scenery, be sure to check out the Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle, County Down. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a full stomach!

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Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival has announced its eclectic festival programme, as it returns from May 26^th – June 4^th with 10 days of exciting seafaring fun. This year the festival is pleased to announce ‘The Phoenix’ tall ship will be part of the celebrations.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is collaborating with Ballycastle Community Development Group and Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring you this hugely popular celebration, with a packed programme of activities on both dry-land and at sea, inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the mainland in Ballycastle.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, dance displays, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, walks, talks, cookery demonstrations and lots of artisan produce at the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market, all of which celebrate the area’s rich local history, culture, music, and food.

The Phoenix tall ship is well known for its appearances in many films and television shows including Hornblower, Chronicles of Narnia and Voyage of Discovery. Visitors can experience the unique ship, with one-hour tours as well as day trips.

This is the first year The Phoenix will be part of the festival, so it’s a brilliant opportunity for locals and visitors to experience it.

The 10-day festival offers something for everyone, whether you want to find out more about traditional boat making, enjoy some family fun on the beach or have a go at paddle boarding.

To add to the expanding festival, a new addition this year will be on the pier activities to include music, dance and entertainment. Corracle boat making will also be a unique experience to find out more about these tradition vessels.

In other programme highlights, look out for the blessing of the boats, traditional rope making, maritime themed children’s crafts, colourful kite display, sand sculpture demonstration and a children’s sandcastle competition on Ballycastle Beach.

Looking ahead to the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ivor Wallace, said: “Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival is about inspiring a passion for the sea, as well as celebrating Ballycastle and Rathlin Island’s shared nautical heritage. It is a fantastic showcase of the area’s unrivalled tourism offering and it brings a unique vibrancy which has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors since the festival began 10 years ago.

“I know it is highly anticipated every year as a highlight of our Borough’s events calendar, and Council is very grateful to the local community volunteers who play a crucial role in its success.”

The full programme is available on the festival’s website so please visit www.rathlinsoundmaritimefestival.com for the latest updates or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre by ringing 028 2076 2024. Trips on The Phoenix must be booked in advance. Details for bookings can be found via the festival’s website.

Please note, details are subject to change due to tides and weather conditions, so visitors are advised to follow the Festival’s Facebook (@RathlinSoundMaritimeFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) channels for the most up-to-date announcements.