Belfast Orangefest Launches New Public Engagement Campaign To Help Shape Its Future

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Orangefest, the cultural brand established by the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, has launched a new public engagement campaign aimed at shaping the future of its year-round programme of events, outreach, and celebrations.

With the help of Belfast-based media and marketing agency Excalibur Press, the initiative will see the development of a refreshed brand, messaging framework, and marketing strategy for Belfast Orangefest. A goal of which is to broaden participation, build deeper community connections, and ensure the festival reflects the evolving cultural landscape of Northern Ireland while remaining true to its heritage.

The project will involve a wide-ranging listening exercise with the public and key stakeholders. This includes opportunities for individuals and organisations to take part in interviews, surveys, workshops, and digital feedback sessions, ensuring the strategy is shaped by those it represents and impacts.

William Hughes, Director of Development at Belfast Orangefest said: “We want to hear from people across the community – whether they’ve been involved in Belfast Orangefest for years or are engaging with it for the first time. 

“This campaign is about listening, reflecting, and building something together that feels open, inclusive and proud of our cultural identity. 

“Our aim is to create a festival that celebrates heritage in a way that connects with all generations and backgrounds.”

Orangefest is the brand responsible for promoting Orange cultural events throughout the year including a series of fringe events in Belfast during the 12th of July celebrations, but in recent years it has evolved to include a growing programme of family-friendly events, educational activities, and cultural outreach throughout the year. 

The new campaign will support that evolution by refining how Belfast Orangefest presents itself publicly and helping shape its future direction.

Tina Calder, strategist and chief vision officer of Excalibur Press said: “This project is about more than just the development of Orangefest – it’s about people, stories and cultural connection. 

“Our goal is to work collaboratively with communities to develop messaging and engagement strategies that are authentic, respectful, and meaningful. 

“We want to ensure Orangefest reflects the values of the people involved in it and resonates with wider society, both now and in the future.”

As part of the campaign, Excalibur Press will deliver a comprehensive strategy covering stakeholder engagement, marketing and PR, content development, media analysis, and brand storytelling. A key focus will be exploring how the history and values behind Orangefest can be communicated in ways that inspire curiosity, bridge divides, and build understanding.

William Mawhinney, Director of Development of Belfast Orangefest added: “We believe Orangefest has the potential to be a powerful platform for community celebration, education, and unity. But that only works if we listen – really listen – to the people it represents. 

“This strategy is an open invitation for the public to help us shape a festival that speaks to today’s Northern Ireland.”

Members of the public are now being invited to register their interest in participating. 

Whether you’re a supporter, a curious observer, or a community member with ideas to share – this is your chance to shape something meaningful.

All you have to do to get involved is fill out an expression of interest at >> https://forms.gle/d21E3PsFB3u2f9UE7 

Offers of the Week!

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Bayview Hotel, Portballintrae, County Antrim

Enjoy luxury for less with Bayview Hotel’s prepay and save 10% offer. From £199 per person sharing (non-refundable rate), your luxury haven of relaxation awaits you, on the breathtaking Causeway Coast in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Offer valid until 31 March 2026. Visit bayviewhotelni.com/whats-on/ for more information.

Roe Valley Resort, Limavady, County Londonderry

The Roe Valley Resort’s Midweek Tots Package is designed with young families in mind, offering a fun break in luxurious surroundings with plenty to keep the kids entertained. From £159, based on two adults and one infant (0-3 years) per family, enjoy spacious guestrooms, dining in The Coach House or Fratelli, where kids can get their chef’s hat and apron to build their own pizza. Plus, explore the Kids Activities Zone* boasting a helter skelter, bungee trampolines, 4×4 driving experience and bouncy castle, and so much more. *Activities chargeable. Offer valid until 1 November. Visit roevalleyresort.com/midweek-tots-getaway.html for more information.

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers.

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 1-7 September

 

  1. Armagh Food and Cider Weekend, various locations, County Armagh, 4 – 7 September. Brimming with fine foods, foraged lunches, cider tasting, tours, talks and fiction amongst the apple-laden orchards. Combine all this with award-winning ciders and the most stunning surroundings, and you are in for a harvest season treat.
  2. Eats & Beats Festival, Newcastle, County Down, 6 – 7 September. As summer fades, the Eats & Beats festival lights up Newcastle, celebrating the Mourne Gullion Strangford’s vibrant musical heritage and food scene. This festival is a foodie’s and music lover’s paradise with a wealth of flavours and incredible acts, in addition to events and festivities in venues right across the town.
  3. Taste Autumn in Ards & North Down, various locations, County Down, 5 – 28 September. Taste Autumn is set to showcase the very best of Ards and North Down’s food and drink through a packed programme of events and experiences. Savour seasonal tide and turf produce and some of the borough’s finest food and drink which offers something for all palates.
  4. Portrush Tasty, Portrush, County Antrim, 5 September. This Friday night food tour celebrates the best of Portrush’s iconic landmarks and local produce, offering a fun and flavourful experience. Led by Wendy, a passionate local food and drink ambassador, participants will explore the unique people, tastes, and character that define this iconic coastal town.
  5. Derry By Fork, Derry~Londonderry, 6 September. Discover the city’s thriving food scene. Blending history, culture, and exceptional flavours, these tours are led by passionate locals who reveal hidden culinary gems and share the stories behind the city’s most iconic landmarks.
  6. Belfast Maritime Festival, Belfast, 6 –7 September. Belfast Maritime Festival will once again welcome vessels and ships to Queen’s Quay and Abercorn Basin, where you can hop onboard to experience life at sea and meet the crew. The Titanic Quarter will come alive on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September with an array of free entertainment for all to enjoy.
  7. Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, check website for open dates and times. Surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland with Benaughlin Mountain rising in the background, the National Trust’s Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this extensive and welcoming place.
  8. Presence and Place Tour at Ardress House, Portadown, County Armagh, 6 September. Set in the heart of the beautiful Armagh countryside, this immersive tour invites you to slow down and connect with the rich history and tranquil beauty of this stunning historic estate, that dates back to 1660. Led by an expert National Trust guide and an experienced mindfulness teacher, you’ll embark on a journey of deep presence—engaging your senses as you explore both the exquisite interiors and peaceful gardens.
  9. Ulster Orchestra: On Your Doorstep at the Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 7 September. Enjoy another stunning symphonic afternoon in September, as the Ulster Orchestra returns to the Hill of the O’Neill. Another fabulous afternoon of classical music favourites lies in store, in the company of conductor David Brophy. It’s the concert for all the family that you won’t want to miss.
  10. Bramley Apple Baking & Orchard Visit with Wee Buns Cookery School, various locations, County Tyrone and County Armagh, 5 – 6 September. Join a unique experience that combines the beauty of the Armagh countryside with the joy of traditional Irish baking. Begin in Rose’s Bramley apple orchard in Collegeland, County Armagh. After the orchard tour (approx. 45 minutes), make your way to the nearby cookery school—just five minutes away—where the baking begins.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Women In Leadership To Gather For Cross Border She Leads Event

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Six Chambers of Commerce unite to host a cross border celebration of women in leadership

Women from across Northern Ireland and Ireland are being encouraged to save the date for a major new cross-border event, She Leads Women Shaping Economies, taking place on Friday, September 5 at The Fairways Hotel, Dundalk.

Organised by six Chambers of Commerce situated between Belfast and Dublin, each currently led by a female Chamber President, the afternoon tea event will showcase women in leadership, highlight their contribution to local and national economies and provide a platform for important conversations about leadership, resilience and growth.

The initiative represents a unique collaboration between Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade, Dundalk Chamber, Drogheda and District Chamber, Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, County Meath Chamber and WBR Chamber of Commerce. All six Chambers are headed by women who have come together with a shared vision of creating opportunities for dialogue, connection and support.

The She Leads event has been designed as a space for women to connect across sectors, geographies and industries. It will feature panel discussions with a range of business leaders and decision-makers, together with networking opportunities over a formal afternoon tea.

Ruth Young, president of the Lisburn Chamber of Commerce said she was delighted to be taking part in the event and was looking forward to connecting with the other five chambers.

She added: “We’re delighted to be part of this groundbreaking cross-border initiative celebrating female leadership across our shared island. 

“She Leads represents exactly the kind of collaboration and networking opportunity that can drive real change – connecting women across sectors and borders while supporting our local communities. 

“I encourage women from all industries to join us in Dundalk for what promises to be an inspiring afternoon of meaningful conversation and connection.”

The event will begin with a prosecco reception at 1.30pm, providing an informal opportunity for participants to meet others from across the region and beyond. Guests will then take part in panel discussions featuring speakers drawn from politics, business and media. The discussions will provide insights into the realities of female leadership in today’s economic and social environment and will reflect a broad range of professional experiences.

The afternoon will conclude with a full networking tea, allowing participants to continue conversations, build relationships and form new connections that may extend far beyond the event itself.

She Leads has been created as a collaborative initiative between six Chambers of Commerce spanning both Northern Ireland and Ireland. The Chambers involved are Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade (led by President Edwina Flynn), Dundalk Chamber (led by President Hanna McDonnell), Drogheda and District Chamber (led by President Naomi Tully), Lisburn Chamber of Commerce (led by President Ruth Young), County Meath Chamber (led by President Niamh Giffney) and WBR Chamber of Commerce (led by President Colleen Dowdall Tinnelly).

This cross-border approach aims to reflect the interconnected nature of the region’s economies while also celebrating the role of women in shaping future growth.

The event will be compered by Northern Ireland broadcaster Denise Watson, a well-known journalist and presenter with more than 30 years’ experience in television and radio.

Rather than delivering lengthy keynote speeches, each panellist will take part in conversations designed to highlight key themes such as resilience, breaking barriers in male dominated industries, leadership in public life and building creative enterprises. The full line-up of panellists will be announced in the coming weeks.

She Leads has been designed not only as a networking and professional development opportunity but also as a way to support women in the wider community. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local women’s charities, ensuring that the initiative has an immediate and tangible impact.

She Leads is supported by Local Enterprise Office Louth, PTSB, Oriel Office, Deli Lites, Southern Regional College (SRC), Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Excalibur Press.

Tickets for the event are available now via TicketTailor at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dundalkchamberofcommerce1/1804447

Spaces are limited and early booking is advised to secure a place at this new event in the business and leadership calendar.

David Ireland’s Ulster American Opens at The Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast

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Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s production of David Ireland’s no-holds-barred black comedy Ulster American opens in East Belfast this week.

Taking place at The Sanctuary Theatre (Tues Aug 26 – Sat Sept 6) with evening performances at 7pm and a 2pm matinee on the closing day, this run is directed by Bright Umbrella’s founder and artistic director Trevor Gill.

The three-person cast features Northern Irish actor James Boal as Leigh Carver, Caroline Curran as Ruth Davenport and Andrew McClay as Jay Conway.

Speaking about the production, Trevor said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from.

“We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.

“Any director who tries too hard to make a particular point runs the danger of turning a script into a parody, a cartoon of itself. David’s script does the work for us in outlining its themes. Often, it’s a straight delivery that will achieve the greatest impact. Do your job, tell the story – the audience will do the rest.

“Watching a production of Ulster American is a visceral experience. Audiences gasp in disbelief, laugh out loud and are shocked at events. However, the subtlety of the piece has stood out during rehearsal. David’s precise word choice has us questioning our perspectives. The Sanctuary is a small venue with around 120 seats meaning that no one is very far from the stage, this brings a sense of audience intimacy and involvement.”

David Ireland said: “I wrote most of the play while living at 66 Castlereagh Street, a two-minute walk from The Sanctuary.

“Whenever I hear of a production of Ulster American happening, wherever it is in the world, my mind goes back to East Belfast, and to Castlereagh Street. I’m glad it’s come home.”

Caroline Curran takes to the stage as Ruth Davenport, a writer from Belfast who is overjoyed that her play is being performed with a well-established actor. 

“She’s intelligent, funny, but with a fiery side,” said Caroline.

“I first read Ulster American in extracts that Bright Umbrella did for Bringing It All Back Home to celebrate writers from East Belfast. I was lucky enough to be reading the Ulster American extract with the part I am now cast in, so I am over the moon to be back.

“I have performed here before and I absolutely adore this space and the staff. I’m looking forward to audiences who have never been to the Sanctuary Theatre coming and seeing this very special place and enjoying a really funny, dark piece of theatre.”

Andrew McClay, best known for his appearances in Game of Thrones and HBO’s The Last Watch, said: “I play Jay Conway, Oscar-winning actor, who is intense and has been known to speak from his crotch.

“Having never acted in the Sanctuary, I am most looking forward to the intimacy of the venue. The building has history and character, I love places like that. Plus, it’s just down the road from the house.

“If you love the craic, you’ll love this. And sure here, who doesn’t love the craic.”

James Boal (Leigh Carver) added: “I’m a huge fan of David’s writing. His intense storytelling and razor-sharp dialogue. The hype around the play when it premiered in Edinburgh (where I live) was unreal, and when I read it I knew why.

“I played Slim in Cyprus Avenue alongside David Hayman as Eric. Seeing David’s play go to work on Scottish audiences was incredible, belly laughs to heartbreak in an instant. I have a feeling Ulster American is going to take Belfast audiences on that same intensely entertaining, unsettling and challenging wild ride.”

Ulster American unfolds over the course of a single evening, when an American film star, an English director and a Northern Irish playwright gather to discuss a new play. What begins as a collaboration quickly unravels into a volatile clash of egos, politics and identities, raising difficult questions about power, privilege and consent.

The play contains very strong language, graphic violence and references to sexual assault.

Tickets are £20 and available now at brightumbrella.co.uk

Unravel the Magic of Wool and Linen at the Spinning Yarns Festival!

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Get ready for a weekend of creativity, heritage, and hands-on fun as the Spinning Yarns Festival returns to Mossley Mill on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, 10am to 5pm.

Hosted by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, this two-day celebration brings the timeless beauty of wool and linen to life through craft, storytelling, and community spirit.

Mossley Mill will be transformed into a hive of activity featuring a bustling craft marketplace filled with unique stalls and artisan creations, friendly alpacas and free children’s entertainment. Watch traditional techniques come to life with demonstrations from the Ulster Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers, as well as bobbin lace making.

Whether you’re an experienced textile artist, a curious beginner, or simply looking for a fun and colourful family day out, Spinning Yarns has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the creative world of textile arts through a variety of hands-on workshops (available at an additional cost), including Upcycling Denim, Visible Mending, and Tunisian Crochet, perfect for picking up new techniques and crafting your own unique handmade pieces.

Following the debut of her stunning Causeway pattern at last year’s event, renowned crochet designer Eleonora Tully returns as this year’s keynote speaker to celebrate 10 years of Coastal Crochet. You don’t need to be an expert, Eleonora’s talk promises inspiration for all. She’ll unravel the mysteries of crochet, share insights into her design process, and offer practical tips and tricks to boost your crochet confidence.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Leah Kirkpatrick, invites everyone to take part in the festivities: “Spinning Yarns is a vibrant celebration of our Borough’s rich textile heritage and creative spirit. It’s a joy to see Mossley Mill come alive with colour, craft, and community each year. The festival has grown from strength to strength, becoming a much anticipated highlight in our cultural calendar. Whether you’re here to learn a new skill, connect with local makers, or simply enjoy a unique family day out, this event offers something truly special for everyone.”

Tickets are just £7 for adults, £5 for concessions, and free for children under 16. Weekend tickets are available for £11.50.

Visitors may also indulge in a relaxing Spinning Yarns Afternoon Tea in Yarn’s Kitchen by Manns, served Saturday 6 September from 12 noon to 2pm (booking is required).

For more details and to book tickets, visit spinningyarnsfestival.com

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Candlelight®, the live concert series that reimagines classical music, returns to Derry with new dates from October.  The multisensory experience continues at St Columb’s Cathedral, creating an intimate atmosphere that has already captivated millions of people in over 150 cities around the world.

Candlelight®, the series of live concerts presented by Fever and designed to democratize access to classical music, returns to Derry with new dates. Starting in October, St Columb’s Cathedral will be transformed into an intimate setting illuminated by thousands of candles to host the first series of performances, kicking off with tributes to ABBA and Coldplay.

Already enjoyed by millions across more than 150 cities worldwide, including London, Paris, and Madrid, Candlelight brings classical music to life in extraordinary spaces beyond traditional concert halls. In Derry, St Columb’s Cathedral offers an ideal atmosphere for this unique experience, where the connection between performers and audience is heightened by the warm, flickering glow of candlelight.

Candlelight collaborates with talented local musicians who share the belief that classical music can resonate with a broader audience. This innovative format offers a unique musical experience through a diverse selection of programs designed to cater all tastes. Candlelight appeals to a wide range of attendees, including those who might never have considered attending a classical music concert. In an intimate candlelit setting, audiences can immerse themselves in the timeless masterpieces of composers like Vivaldi, Mozart, and Chopin, while also experiencing fresh, reimagined interpretations of popular hits from artists such as Queen, ABBA, Coldplay, and Ed Sheeran.

Complete programing in Derry: 

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA
Venue: St Columb’s Cathedral
Dates and times: 11 Oct 19:00
From: £15.00
Tickets can be purchased at: https://feverup.com/m/127813

Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: St Columb’s Cathedral
Dates and times: 11 Oct 21:00
From: £15.00
Tickets can be purchased at: https://feverup.com/m/123987

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen and The Beatles
Venue: St Columb’s Cathedral
Dates and times: 15 Nov 19:00
From: £20.00
Tickets can be purchased at: https://feverup.com/m/395003

Candlelight: Hans Zimmer’s Best Works
Venue: St Columb’s Cathedral
Dates and times: 15 Nov 21:00
From: £15.00
Tickets can be purchased at: https://feverup.com/m/127793

Candlelight Christmas: Love Actually, Home Alone & More
Venue: St Columb’s Cathedral
Dates and times: 20 Dec 19:00, 21:00
From: £20.00
Tickets can be purchased at: https://feverup.com/m/142493

For more information about Candlelight, access candlelightexperience.com

Aspects Festival 2025 Programme Unveiled

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Bangor will once again become a hub for books, ideas and inspiration this autumn as Aspects Festival returns for its 34th year.

Running from Wednesday 24 September to Sunday 5 October 2025, Northern Ireland’s longest-running literature festival promises an unmissable line-up of acclaimed writers, live events and creative experiences. From author events to intimate workshops, music and art, this year’s festival offers something for everyone who loves a good story.

Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, Aspects welcomes visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond, celebrating Irish writing in all its forms.

This year’s programme is packed with events for all tastes – from poetry and nature writing to creative workshops, discussions, live music and podcast storytelling. Audiences can also enjoy in-conversation evenings with Eamon Carr, Seán Farrell and Glenn Patterson, explore Bangor Abbey Graveyard tours and discover the work of emerging and established writers.

Among the programme highlights:

  • Dara McAnulty at Clandeboye – Award-winning naturalist and writer Dara McAnulty launches his new book, A Wild Child’s Guide to Nature at Night, in the stunning surroundings of Clandeboye Estate. Dara will also join internationally acclaimed Bangor-based pianist Xenia Pestova Bennett for an intimate evening weaving together words, music and nature at Studio 1A.
  • David Trimble: Peacemaker – A special evening at Bangor Abbey, where author Stephen Walker will discuss his new book with former MP Lady Hermon, offering revealing insights into the life and legacy of the political leader.
  • Carol Drinkwater: One Summer in Provence – Beloved actress and bestselling author Carol Drinkwater joins Aspects at Bangor Castle to discuss her new novel, a tale of betrayal, belonging, and unexpected love set on a sun-drenched vineyard in the south of France.
  • Remembering Michael Longley – This year, Aspects honours the late, legendary poet with two special events. A dedicated evening at Bangor Castle, will bring together his friends and fellow writers to share memories and readings, celebrating his life and work. A special exhibition by artist Pauline Little, inspired by Longley’s poems, will run in Bangor Carnegie Library throughout September.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:
“Aspects Festival brings people together – readers, writers and anyone with a love of stories, to share in the joy of words and ideas. I’d encourage everyone, whether you’re a lifelong book lover or new to the festival, to come along and experience it for yourself.”

Patricia Hamilton, Festival Director, added:
“Aspects Festival has always been about connection – sparking conversations, celebrating voices from near and far, and creating space for audiences to explore new ideas. This year’s programme captures that spirit more than ever, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Bangor this September.”

Aspects Festival runs from 24 September to 5 October 2025 at venues across Bangor. The full line-up and tickets are available at: https://aspectsfestival.com/whats-on

Ulster Operatic Company takes care of business in Dolly Parton’s smash-hit show 9 to 5 the Musical

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Dust off your cowboy boots, channel your inner Dolly, and get ready to sing along—it’s time to take care of business with Ulster Operatic Company at Grand Opera House Belfast in Dolly Parton’s smash-hit show, 9 to 5 the Musical running  7–11 October 2025.

From the multi-award-winning team that brought you West Side Story, Evita, and Legally Blonde, this laugh-out-loud musical comedy is bursting with energy, sass, and unforgettable songs. Based on the iconic movie, 9 to 5 follows three office workers who decide they’ve had enough of their sexist, egotistical boss—and hatch a plan to take control of their workplace and their lives.

It’s a feel-good story of friendship, empowerment, and fighting the system—with a whole lot of Dolly sparkle thrown in. Featuring original music and lyrics by the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton, including Backwoods Barbie, Shine Like the Sun, and the legendary title track 9 to 5, this toe-tapping show is not to be missed.

For tickets visit 9 to 5 The Musical | Grand Opera House

First American-Built Locomotive in Ireland Runs Again at Downpatrick

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In a major first for railway preservation in Ireland, the Downpatrick & County Down Railway in partnership with the Irish Traction Group unveiled a major milestone on Saturday 23rd August, as former Córas Iompair Éireann and Irish Rail diesel locomotive No. 124 hauled its first passenger trains in preservation at the DCDR’s 40th Anniversary Gala event.

Built in 1961 by General Motors in La Grange, Illinois, the 121 Class were the first American-built locomotives to operate in Ireland, transforming CIE’s fleet with their reliability and distinctive styling, looking more like Amtrak switchers (shunting locos) with their distinctive huge cab, with little to compare them to anywhere in Ireland or the UK. Withdrawn in the mid-2000s, most were scrapped, and for years many doubted 124 would ever run again. No. 124 had been placed in long-term storage at Moyasta, County Clare since 2008, only moving to Downpatrick in June 2025. After just two months of intensive restoration, it returned to service in time for the gala, making a surprise debut to an enthusiastic but unsuspecting crowd of visitors and photographers.

The day itself began with cab rides in G-Class locomotive G617, and run-pasts featuring the railway’s fleet, including the recently restored Wickham Railcar No. 713 and 450 Class Railcar No. 458. However, the biggest cheer of the afternoon came when 124 appeared for the first time, surprising everyone as it rounded the corner with a fully loaded ballast train. Later in the day, the locomotive made history by hauling the first passenger trains operated by a 121 Class locomotive since their withdrawal from mainline service. This special trip to Inch Abbey, using the DCDR’s vintage Edwardian carriages, was packed with enthusiasts eager to be part of the occasion.

The event was further enhanced with heritage buses on display outside the station from Ards Bus Preservation and Irish Transport Heritage, while Táilte Tours provided a connecting coach link from Dublin, underlining the all-Ireland interest in the gala.

Irish Traction Group committee member, Mike Beckett, praised the team effort that brought the locomotive back to life: “A huge thanks has to go to all our supporters and especially Downpatrick & County Down Railway and its volunteers for all the work that went on behind the scenes to make the diesel gala event on 23rd August such a major success.

“Our relationship with DCDR has been ongoing for many years, and we have always been grateful for their support with our diesel locomotive fleet based here.”

He continues, “Following the arrival of 124 in early June, Downpatrick-based volunteers really pulled out all the stops to try to get 124 into service for this diesel gala event. Every spare minute was spent repairing electrics, air systems, coolant systems and testing every operational aspect of the locomotive. The final hurdle was getting the all important paperwork completed, and risk assessments written, and agreement from the railway regulator in Northern Ireland, the Railway Safety Authority at Stormont.”

“Thanks to the hard work of ITG & DCDR volunteers, including burning the midnight oil for some last minute faults, it is hard to describe the appearance of 124 at the gala as anything other than triumphant, operating the first 121-class hauled trains in preservation anywhere in Ireland. The crowd were expecting a different locomotive, but we somehow managed to keep this secret until the train started rolling down the line, and jaws were dropping and looks of disbelief and amazement broke out as we powered past the spectators. It’s a real win for ITG and DCDR, and a testament to the skills and perseverance of the volunteers from both groups.”

Robert Gardiner, Chairman of the Downpatrick & County Down Railway, added, “We are proud to host 124 and to work with the Irish Traction Group on this achievement. This gala not only celebrated our 40th Anniversary, but also demonstrated our comeback from the devastating floods of 2023 – as well as the importance of cross-border cooperation in preserving Ireland’s transport heritage.”

He added, “The urge to share the updates on 124’s progress has been pretty strong, but we really wanted to keep this under wraps so that there would be absolutely zero spoilers for our passengers!  We’re more shocked than they are probably that we successfully kept it quiet!”

The gala drew visitors from across Ireland and the UK, cementing Downpatrick’s role as the home of mainline diesel preservation in Ireland. With No. 124 now operational, albeit still a bit shabby from over 16 years exposed to the wild Atlantic winds in Co Clare, work is still not yet complete, with significant work on overhauling mechanical components and bodywork, and an eventual repaint, will resume as soon as volunteers recover from the past few months of effort.  Effort is also continuing to restore the DCDR’s steam services following the 2023 floods, with work on the locomotive shed hoping to be carried out in the near future.

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