The UAC Easter Stages Ltd is thrilled to announce that following a two-year break, due to the global pandemic, the Circuit of Ireland International Rally is set to return on Easter weekend, Friday 15th and Saturday 16th April 2022.
Craig Breen and Paul Nagle on their way to victory on the ‘Circuit’ in 2019
We are also delighted to announce that Wastewater Solutions are continuing to support the event as title sponsors. Wastewater Solutions Managing Director, Philip Johnston, commented ” I am extremely pleased to see the Circuit back and look forward to working with the team to provide another Easter Classic; who knows I might even compete this time!!”
Clerk of the Course, Nigel Hughes, stated ” We are very grateful to Philip for his continued support. We have been working hard during our enforced respite to come up with a plan for the rally that will appeal to competitors, spectators and fans. We are also very conscious that Covid remains as a threat to our population and hopefully the route for 2022 reflects our thinking whilst endeavouring to keep the public safe”.
The Wastewater Solutions Circuit of Ireland International Rally will be the First round of the FIA Celtic Rally Trophy and the third round of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship. The action focuses on the North West corner of Northern Ireland and the 12 stages will provide competitors with fast flowing and technical challenges on both days.
Event Headquarters in Carey Cleaning Machines will be beside the service area in the Livestock Market in Ballymena helping to reduce the road mileage for competitors and facilitating easy access for spectators.
Entries will open at 8:00 p.m. on 7th March 2022 via rallyscore at www.rallyscore.net and regulations will be available from the event website www.circuitofireland.co.uk We look forward to seeing you out there and welcome the ‘Circuit’ back in style!!
UK City of Culture contender Armagh City reveals fresh nine-day festival bounce for 2022
Tuesday 8th March: St Patrick’s historical home, Armagh City, has launched a new and inspirational nine-day festival programme to celebrate the life and legacy of Ireland’s world-famous patron saint which kicks off on Thursday 10 March.
This year’s Home of St Patrick Festival combines exceptional live music, comedy art, poetry, theatre, film, dance and thought with great debate, adventure and lots of family fun.
The Home of St. Patrick Festival has established itself as one of the UK and Ireland’s best events to mark St Patrick’s enduring impact on the island of Ireland and on the world. Renowned for converting Ireland to Christianity centuries ago, it was in Armagh that Patrick began his Christian mission and his legacy lives on in this ancient, unique and beautiful place.
Armagh’s iconic Market Place Theatre plays a big part in this year’s festival, hosting performances from big name comedy acts including Jason Bryne and up-and-coming cult comedy hero Owen Colgan.
Acclaimed tribute band Celtic Soul and the showstopping, global award-winning Sitkovetsky Trio will also bring their unique classical power to Armagh for this year’s special series of events. The trio have played in world renowned venues such as Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Frankfurt Alte Oper, Palais des Beaux Arts, Musée du Louvre, l’Auditori Barcelona, Wigmore Hall and Lincoln Center New York.
In Ireland’s oldest city and famed for its history, heritage and stunning Georgian façades, storytelling and walking tours are another big feature of this year’s programme which reliably includes the annual St Patrick Lecture, St Patrick’s Vigil and community procession.
Art is as important as ever in 2022 as internationally-acclaimed artist Desmond Kinney brings his large-scale murals and public art works with a theme of myths and legends to a city which also celebrates Armagh Art Club’s 60-year milestone with special showcase of its work at Market Place Theatre.
There’s plenty for kids of all ages too, including art and craft workshops, ahead of two big family days out planned for Thursday 17 March in The Shambles Yard, Armagh. On Saturday 19 March, Banbridge’s gorgeous Solitude Park will be the place to be to enjoy live music, face-painters, fair rides and more.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has today, Wednesday 9th March 2022, launched a new way to explore the stunning scenery of the region – through the eyes of the creative craftspeople and artists who draw their inspiration from the landscape.
The new Causeway Craft Trail is a fascinating immersive tourism experience that allows visitors to take in some of the hidden gems of the Causeway Coastal Route by visiting artists and craftspeople in the places that inspire them and observing them at work.
The visitor experience has been funded by Tourism NI and as part of the launch participants will have the opportunity to ‘meet the makers’ at a series of planned open workshop events.
The Craft Trail begins in the north-west of the region, steering visitors from studios nestled in the rural farmscapes of Aghadowey to the endless beaches of Downhill, via workshops with views out to the Isle of Jura and up close to world-famous attractions such as Giant’s Causeway and the idyllic Ballintoy Harbour.
An Open Studio Weekend takes place on March 19th and 20th when twelve makers and collectives will throw open their doors to demonstrate their craft and share their creative development with you. There’ll also be an opportunity to purchase their artisan products which make an ideal gift or a treat for yourself.
The skilled artisans who you will meet along the trail include potters working their wheel in renovated barns, boat makers building canoes in a workshop high above Castlerock, traditional basket-makers incorporating driftwood and pebbles in their work, as well as Northern Ireland’s only artisanal glassblowing studio.
Places to visit will include intimate galleries where visitors can lose themselves in contemplation of the artworks, and social enterprises where they can explore the work of scores of creative designer-makers who work in the Causeway Coast and Glens
Visitors will be able to enjoy a homemade traybake in a welcoming café, while watching a potter creating just the same tableware that you’re using. They will be able to observe working studios where craftspeople will share ancient techniques and the fascinating background stories associated with their arts.
Launching the new Causeway Craft Trail, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Richard Holmes said: “The Causeway Craft Trail offers a tremendous platform for local artists and craftspeople to create a meaningful and immersive experience by welcoming visitors into their studio to observe them at work and learn about the history of their craft and business.
“The experience offers visitors a unique way to explore a region that is world-renowned for its magical landscapes, with the added opportunity of meeting the artists and craftspeople and learn how they interpret their inspirational surroundings to create beautiful and authentic piece made and sold onsite.
“The new Causeway Craft Trail has brought together a collective of talented and accomplished artists and craftspeople whose enthusiasm for the region is rivalled only by their sheer brilliance at their profession, and they will undoubtedly deliver an authentic experience that will enhance our tourism offering aimed at attracting visitors to explore the trail.”
Ciaran Doherty, Head of Regions at Tourism NIadded: “As part of our Market Led Covid Recovery Fund we are delighted to have been able to support the development of this engaging Causeway Craft Trail which provides another great reason to visit the Causeway Coast and Glens and Northern Ireland this spring and beyond.”
L-R Caroline McCoubrey, Foundation Manager; Rachel Doherty, 4C UR Future Managing Director; Charlie Jenkins, The James Kane Foundation Board Member; Rose Mary Stalker, 4C UR Future Founder.
Local social enterprise, 4C UR Future, have secured seed funding from The James Kane Foundation to develop and launch a first-generation Careers Portal to help involve, inform, and inspire young people from Northern Ireland to make more empowered education and career choices.
The Northern Ireland-based not-for-profit Community Interest Company was founded in March 2019 by experienced business leader, Rose Mary Stalker, with Managing Director, Rachel Doherty, appointed in April 2021 to lead the organisation’s ambitious plans.
Collaborating with a diverse range of cross-sectoral businesses, the organisation delivers innovative careers inspiration events for Year 9 students called 4C UR Future LIVE.
Rachel explained:
“4C UR Future LIVE is not a typical careers event. We engage with Year 9 pupils using work-based games and skills challenges to help young people identify their own strengths and attributes, which are aligned with future of work employability criteria.”
“The range of skills-based games we provide, which are designed and delivered in collaboration with local employers, are intended to provide something for everyone; reflecting the diverse nature of future career options and giving each young person the opportunity to shine.”
Plans are well underway for the organisation to deliver an at-scale pilot of 11 4C UR Future LIVE events in June 2022 as an at-scale pilot, with one event being hosted in each Council area in Northern Ireland.
The seed funding from The James Kane Foundation will support the development of a first-generation 4C UR Future CAREERS PORTAL for 2022, through which each LIVE participant will receive a ‘Personal Feedback Profile’ after the events. In addition, the CAREERS PORTAL will contain a wide range of relevant, relatable, and up to date Careers Content, which is developed in collaboration with industry and employers.
Rachel continued:
“The 4C UR Future CAREERS PORTAL has the potential to reach and engage every young person in Northern Ireland, providing them with a go-to platform for impartial and up-to-date careers information, and crucially, featuring local companies and local voices.”
“The content available via the portal has the potential to inspire young people, build their confidence, and improve the quality and relevance of their education pathways and career choices. It will also signpost them to resources for further skills and careers support.”
“Our aim is to empower young people; involving them in their own decision-making journeys, informing them of the wide range of opportunities available to them in Northern Ireland, and inspiring them to recognise their own value.”
Announcing the support, The James Kane Foundation Chair, Michael Wilson, said:
“We are delighted to support this initiative. One of the Foundation’s key charitable objectives is to provide funding for work experience, employment, and training opportunities and this fits well within the concept of a Careers Portal for post-primary school children. Having access to a wealth of information online, which is up to date and tailored, will undoubtedly help our young people by enhancing their career development, skills, and competencies. We look forward in anticipation for its launch.”
Charlie Jenkins, Board Member of the Foundation (pictured), also commented:
“I was delighted to be able to represent The James Kane Foundation at the announcement of the seed fund for 4C UR Future. It is fantastic to see the progress being made on such a ground-breaking project.”
Newtownabbey Drama Festival is back for a week of exhilarating drama at Theatre at The Mill from Monday 14 – Friday 18 March.
This annual festival presents some of the best full length plays from amateur dramatic groups across Northern Ireland and beyond.
This year’s exciting line-up includes;
Monday 14 – Holywood Players present Absent Friends by Alan Acykbourn
Tuesday 15 – Bart Players present The Cemetery Club by Ivan Menchell
Wednesday 16 – Newpoint Players present Mary K by Sean Treanor
Thursday 17 – Rosemary Drama Group present Tartuffe by Ranjit Bolt
Friday 18 – Theatre 3 Newtownabbey present The Anastasia File by Royce Ryton
A full synopsis for all plays can be found at theatreatthemill.com
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Billy Webb said “Newtownabbey Drama Festival has been serving our community from 1982 offering the best of amateur theatre. I am pleased to see the return of this event and I would encourage you to support these groups and enjoy a great evening of Theatre.”
Tickets for the Newtownabbey Drama Festival are priced at £9 & £8 (Concession) and are available online at theatreatthemill.com or from Box Office T: 0300 123 7788.
UK City of Culture contender Armagh City reveals fresh nine-day festival bounce for 2022
Thursday 3rd March: St Patrick’s historical home, Armagh City, has launched a new and inspirational nine-day festival programme to celebrate the life and legacy of Ireland’s world-famous patron saint which kicks off on Thursday 10 March.
This year’s Home of St Patrick Festival combines exceptional live music, comedy art, poetry, theatre, film, dance and thought with great debate, adventure and lots of family fun.
The Home of St. Patrick Festival has established itself as one of the UK and Ireland’s best events to mark St Patrick’s enduring impact on the island of Ireland and on the world. Renowned for converting Ireland to Christianity centuries ago, it was in Armagh that Patrick began his Christian mission and his legacy lives on in this ancient, unique and beautiful place.
Armagh’s iconic Market Place Theatre plays a big part in this year’s festival, hosting performances from big name comedy acts including Jason Bryne and up-and-coming cult comedy hero Owen Colgan.
Acclaimed tribute band Celtic Soul and the showstopping, global award-winning Sitkovetsky Trio will also bring their unique classical power to Armagh for this year’s special series of events. The trio have played in world renowned venues such as Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Frankfurt Alte Oper, Palais des Beaux Arts, Musée du Louvre, l’Auditori Barcelona, Wigmore Hall and Lincoln Center New York.
In Ireland’s oldest city and famed for its history, heritage and stunning Georgian façades, storytelling and walking tours are another big feature of this year’s programme which reliably includes the annual St Patrick Lecture, St Patrick’s Vigil and community procession.
Art is as important as ever in 2022 as internationally-acclaimed artist Desmond Kinney brings his large-scale murals and public art works with a theme of myths and legends to a city which also celebrates Armagh Art Club’s 60-year milestone with special showcase of its work at Market Place Theatre.
There’s plenty for kids of all ages too, including art and craft workshops, ahead of two big family days out planned for Thursday 17 March in The Shambles Yard, Armagh. On Saturday 19 March, Banbridge’s gorgeous Solitude Park will be the place to be to enjoy live music, face-painters, fair rides and more.
Embrace the onset of spring with an unmissable feast for the senses as the Council, in partnership with Tourism NI, run two exciting initiatives; Taste the Borough and Experience the Borough.
Throughout the month of March, we have a great programme to tempt your taste buds and stimulate those adventure seekers amongst you.
We invite you to make this the month where you taste something new or try a completely different experience.
‘Taste the Borough’ is an appetising opportunity to entice locals and visitors to explore the array of high quality eateries/ food experiences on their doorstep and avail of great offers throughout the month of March. Numerous businesses from across the Borough will host a range of events celebrating local food and drink produce. Book your table now; please visit https://visitantrimandnewtownabbey.com/taste/.
‘Experience the Borough’ why not try out the exciting range of activities and attractions our Borough has to offer. Book your taster session today; please visit https://visitantrimandnewtownabbey.com/explore/
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Billy Webb said; “Taste the Borough and Experience the Borough is a great opportunity to sample some of the great local produce we serve up in the many eateries and dining experiences across the Borough. This is also the perfect time to try your hand at some of the exciting visitor experiences right on your doorstep. I would encourage you to support our local restaurants and visitor attractions throughout these initiatives and help them regenerate some much needed business.”
Don’t forget to share your experiences with family and friends and please tag us in your social posts @ANBorough .
As the industry begins to look forward after the impacts of the pandemic and Brexit before that, there are key roles that are waiting to be filled.
We as consumers mostly experience customer-facing roles, but there is so much more to the industry than just those roles. In addition to self-employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, there is a wealth of diverse roles back of house and in supporting roles such as finance, HR, marketing and the wider visitor experience.
The Hospitality and Tourism industry is teeming with opportunities and employers are looking for people with personality and passion.
Here are 4 Reasons To Choose A Career In Hospitality & Tourism And 14 Jobs You Can Apply For Right Now:
It’s creative
Hospitality and tourism are not only people-oriented but also very creative. From creating new products to dreaming up new experiences you can use your creativity to the fullest. No two days are the same in the industry, which means you can escape the monotony of 9-5 and become a flexible and open-minded thinker.
Great perks
Beautiful surroundings, meeting new (sometimes even famous) people, gourmet dishes, new places, amazing staff discounts, the perks of working in hospitality and tourism are endless.
Your ticket to see the world
Working in tourism is like an open ticket to see and experience new places. There are many career paths that enable travel, giving you an opportunity to work from a single location abroad or even travel regularly as part of your job.
Learn transferable skills
A career in hospitality is not just about serving guests just as a job in tourism is not just about travelling. Working in these industries will teach you invaluable skills from interpersonal and organisational skills to management skills and even cultural awareness. These are all transferable and can help you in the long run if you ever want to change career paths.
What will your role be in the industry?
As part of the Hospitality & Tourism Skills network (HATS) and Tourism NI partnership, you can now easily find opportunities that the industry has to offer on a central job portal.
One of the Causeway Coast’s top visitor attractions, Bushmills Distillery are looking for an enthusiastic and talented individual to join their Visitor experience Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, execution, supervision, hospitality, and customer service for all visitor experiences.
2. Travel Consultant | Trailfinders | Co. Antrim
Permanent
Belfast
Trailfinders are recruiting for Travel Consultant positions in Belfast, Dublin, Cork and Limerick. The ideal candidate needs to have experience of working in a target based sales role, have e a strong worldwide geographical awareness as well as extensive and recent first-hand travel experience.
3. Cleaning Operative | Mount Charles Group | Co. Antrim
£8.91 per hour
Permanent
Lisburn
Mount Charles are recruiting for a Cleaning Operative to join their team at Art Lagan Valley Island Lisburn City. The person will ensure all areas are cleaned efficiently, in a timely manner and in accordance with relevant guidelines.
4. Chef Manager | Compass Group | Co. Antrim
Permanent
Up to £25,000 per annum
Belfast
Compass Group is looking to recruit a Chef Manager to be in charge of overseeing the catering services, ensuring the best service and quality of food for all students and staff. The Chef Manager will be required to liaise with and support the Head Chef in the preparation of meals. To plan, prepare, cook all menu dishes, providing a high-quality offer for the customer and client. Carry out general cleaning of the kitchen, maintaining high standards of hygiene. Drive sales through menu plans and promotions suited to the location and ensure compliance with purchasing.
5. PR and Communications Manager |Staffline | Co. Antrim
Permanent
Belfast
Staffline Ireland are recruiting for a PR and Communications Manager for a company in the leisure and tourism industry. The successful candidate will be responsible for the development, implementation, management and evaluation of the PR and communications strategy and operational plans, leading to the achievement of set targets and KPI’s, promoting Belfast as a top European tourism destination for business, leisure and cruise.
6. Fitness and Leisure Manager | Employers For Childcare | Co. Antrim
£25,000 per annum
Lisburn
Employers for Childcare is recruiting for a Fitness and Leisure Manager to join High Rise, the 10,000 sq ft indoor adventure centre in Lisburn incorporating a Clip ‘n Climb climbing arena, soft play, corporate facilities, sensory rooms, and cafe.
The successful candidate will be an experienced climbing instructor who can take overall responsibility for all aspects of delivering safe, fun climbing activities for guests of all ages and leading an energetic team of Clip ‘n Climb instructors.
As a result of their ongoing expansion plans and increased business levels, Alchemy Recruitment Solutions are looking for a focused and driven individual who is willing to take on a key role within the organisation as a Staffing/Events Coordinator.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the co-ordination of temporary and casual staff in line with client requirements. In addition they will ensure that all timesheets and associated administration will be completed in an efficient and accurate manner within strict deadlines.
8. Kitchen Steward | Slieve Donard Resort and Spa | Co. Down
Permanent
Newcastle
The Slieve Donard is recruiting for a Kitchen Steward to join their team in offering a bespoke, hand-crafted hospitality experience to their guests. The successful candidate will be responsible for the efficient operation of the kitchen function and maintaining a clean and tidy work environment. Opportunities are available both within the Hotel and the Percy French.
9. Assistant General Manager | Nando’s | Co. Antrim
Up to £27000 per annum
Belfast
Nando’s is on the hunt for an Assistant Manager to join their team in their busy restaurant in Belfast. The candidate will work alongside the General Manager to support the team to be the best they can be and deliver an amazing Nando’s experience to all our customers.
10 – 11. Seafood Counter Manager And Assistant Counter Manager | Staffline | Co. Down
Permanent
£10.20 for Manager
£9.70 for Assistant Manager
Staffline are seeking a Seafood Counter Manager and a Seafood Counter Assistant Manager for a new project in a busy retail environment in County Down.
The third-generation family business sources the best quality fish every morning from the local ports of Kilkeel, Ardglass and Portavogie to supply some of the leading businesses in hospitality and catering across Northern Ireland.
12. Conference & Banqueting Co-ordinator | Armagh City Hotel | Co. Armagh
Permanent
Armagh
Armagh City Hotel is offering an exciting opportunity for someone to join their team as a Conference & Banqueting Co-Ordinator in their busy C&B Department.
First Choice Selection Services are recruiting for a full time, temporary catering assistant for s well-established Private client in a supported living environment, responsible for preparing and serving food to a high standard, carrying out cleaning duties and catering for a variety of dietary needs.
14. Guest Services |Killeavy Castle Estate | Co. Down
£9.60per hour
Newry
Killeavy Castle Estate is seeking a Guest Services Attendant to join their award-winning 4-star Hotel. The successful candidate will be responsible for being part of the front office operation within the Hotel and reporting to the Front Office Manager, with a primary focus on carrying out all aspects of the day-to-day operation of the Front of House function.
If you are interested in any of these positions make sure you apply NOW!
Join us for an unforgettable experience this spring, as the Strangford Lough Viking Festival sets up camp on the shores surrounding Portaferry and Strangford from Thursday 24 – Sunday 27 March.
Supported by Tourism NI, Ards and North Down Borough Council as well as Newry Mourne and Down District Council, the Festival welcomes you to discover the area’s rich Viking heritage.
Visit the Vikings and enjoy a packed programme of activities, as you step back in time and wander through the encampments in Portaferry and Strangford (Saturday 26 and Sunday 27, 10am – 4pm). Immerse yourself in Viking traditions and way of life – from blacksmithing, woodworking, pottery, and music.
There is lots for families to do too. Your little warriors can train for battle with the Vikings, enjoy a children’s treasure hunt and hear tales of adventure, that will have children and adults bursting with laughter. Why not have a go at axe throwing or archery and take a selfie by the impressive Long Boat!
Highlights of the Festival include the Viking Feast on the Friday evening, with a 9th century feast fit for a Viking King conjured up by The Cuan, served in the wonderful setting of the Old Court, Strangford. Be entertained by storytellers and musicians, and perhaps even dress for the occasion.
On the Saturday evening, the Vikings invade Portaferry with a torchlit procession from the shore followed by a concert in Portico by Sacred Knot who are inspired by the ancient cultures and artwork of Northern Europe.
That’s not all! For immersive experiences, there are talks, tours, activities and workshops on all things Viking, from pottery, jewellery and mead making to herbs for health plus much more.
Why not make a weekend of it and stay in some of the wonderful accommodation surrounding Strangford Lough, where you can sample the delicious local food and drink in the restaurants and eateries, and visit top-class attractions. It will be the perfect getaway this spring.
Check out the programme and get planning for an action-packed weekend! For full programme listing and to book, go to visitardsandnorthdown.com and visitmournemountains.co.uk.
Award-winning Director Cathy Brady’s debut film Wildfire is coming to Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre on Thursday 3rd March.
The screening, part of Film Hub NI’s Collective programme which brings local films to local places, begins at 7pm and tickets cost £5.
Wildfire is the story of Kelly and Lauren, two inseparable sisters whose lives are shattered by the mysterious death of their mother in the fractious border town where they grew up. When Kelly, who has been missing, returns home, the intense bond with her sister is re-ignited and together they unearth their mother’s past, but uncovered secrets and resentments which have been buried deep threaten to overwhelm them.
Nora-Jane Noone and the late Nika McGuigan co-star as the two sisters alongside Kate Dickie, Martin McCann and Helen Behan.
Newry-born Cathy Brady recently won the prestigious BIFA Debut Screenwriter Award for Wildfire and also the IFTA for Best Director. She says: “I am absolutely delighted that audiences throughout Northern Ireland are getting the chance to see Wildfire as part of this Film Hub NI Tour. It feels like it’s a homecoming as the story is set here and I can’t wait to see how local audiences connect to these characters and their stories. The lead performances of Nika and Nora are remarkable and made to be seen on the big screen. We were all deeply shocked and saddened when Nika tragically died while we were post producing Wildfire. To have known Nika and be known by her is one of the greatest gifts I’ve had in my life.”
Sara Gunn-Smith, Marketing and Audiences Officer for Film Hub NI says: “Wildfire is a spectacular film which has received critical acclaim since its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, with prestigious awards for both Cathy as screenwriter from the BIFA, and Nika from the IFTA posthumously for Best Actress. Given the impact Covid has had on cinemas in recent times it is wonderful that we can give Northern Ireland audiences the opportunity to view this amazing film now and celebrate our incredible local cast and crew.”
