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Belfast Community Circus School has launched a brand new strategic plan after receiving funding from both Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council. 

Chief Executive of the Belfast Circus School Jenna Hall said: “The funding we have received, initially through the Resilience Programme and currently as an Anchor organisation, has been transformational for us. We are really proud of what the funding has helped us to achieve and our new plan is just the start.

“Over the past three years we have completed evaluations of our programmes, consulted with the children and families who use our service and those who teach and perform for us. 

“Everything they told us has led to our bold new vision, mission and six ambitious goals. We even have some new values that define the culture of our School and how we work. We are committed to being curious, playful and persistent, we will always collaborate and put our circus family first.”  

Having progressed through the Resilience Programme, a joint initiative between Arts Council Northern Ireland National Lottery Funding and Belfast City Council, in April 2020 Circus School became one of nine arts and heritage organisations across Belfast to be funded as an Anchor organisation. This recognition means that Circus School will play a key role in helping Belfast City Council deliver its cultural strategy, A City Imagining. 

Jenna explained that being an Anchor organisation will “mean Circus School can provide more opportunities for both families and professional performers. As we are coming out of Covid19, there is a real need to boost and rebuild the sector and to support young people to thrive.”

The Circus School offers a range of different classes for people of all ages, helping attendees to not only learn new skills in circus, but to also grow in confidence as they are introduced to a new form of expression. In July and August 2021, 313 people registered for classes, generating much needed paid work for 19 local artists. They also delivered around 50 professional performance gigs. 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Kate Nicholl said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Belfast Community Circus School, one of our Core Multi-Annual Grant anchor recipients as they launch their new plan and brand. Helping the arts and culture sector to adapt to change is so important as we move forwards together on our Covid recovery journey, with the sector having such a vital role to play.

“Belfast Community Circus School offers something unique and is an invaluable resource for artists and young people, going hand in hand with our cultural strategy vision to create a culturally vibrant city.”

The new four year plan has been created as a result of feedback from funders, the families the School supports and other partners. The bold new vision, mission and values will expand on the impressive programme of events they have already delivered over the past 35+ years.

“Everything we are doing is about highlighting the success and impact of our work since 1985 and finding ways to expand and deepen it over the years to come” said Jenna, adding: “We found that people were saying things such as, they didn’t know Belfast Circus had anything to do with professional performance artists, our new plan will help us to no longer be one of Belfast’s best kept secrets.”

The next milestone for the School is the launch of its new brand and name, which will be released on the 30th November.

To find out more about Belfast Community Circus School, go to belfastcircus.org 

If your little ones are looking for something new and exciting this November, then why not join Pip on her Riverboat Adventure!

This special Zoom performance sees BBC Bitesize puppet Pip come to life with Cre8 Theatre in a whirlwind adventure around the many bends of river life.

On her rocky riverboat adventure Pip learns all about the world around her, meeting an array of colourful new friends in unexpected places. Her diverse new friendship group equips her for the journey and enriches her experiences. Through challenging teamwork and mindfulness Pip and her new friends create a shared place that’s safe for everyone.

Funded by Ards and North Down Good Relations and Arts Service, the play explores themes of the world around us, friendship and diversity and has received widespread acclaim from audiences who have already enjoyed the show.

Developed and performed by Sarah Lyle from Cre8 Theatre, who has recently been awarded an Individual Artist Digital Evolution Award from Arts Council Northern Ireland, the play is 100% live and interactive.  Local ladies Katie Richardson and Lata Sharma have also been involved, creating lots of original music and adventure, perfect for entertaining a younger audience.

Ards and North Down Community Arts Officer, Amy McKelvey said: “We are so delighted to have been able to work with the Good Relations team to develop this performance and to bring live theatre to young audiences.”

“During these challenging times young people have not had as much opportunity to enjoy the thrill of going to see a show, so this is a really wonderful chance for them to engage with Pip and all of her puppet friends.”

Three performances of the play will take place on Saturday 20 November – via Zoom at 11am, 1:30pm and 3pm. The play runs for 25 minutes.

This is a free event, but booking is essential. Book your space now at www.andculture.org.uk and ensure you don’t miss the boat!

Hungry for adventure? If you’re looking for something exciting to really sink your teeth into, then look no further.

From November 2021 to March 2022, Slow Food Causeway is hosting a series of unmissable events celebrating the unique cuisine of the Causeway Coast. 

The Slow Food organisation was initially founded by activists in Italy to promote the defense of regional traditions, good food, the joy of gastronomics – and the slow pace of life. Slow Food has since gone global – and has recently welcomed Taste Causeway as a Slow Food destination, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, after awarding them the accreditation. 

From guided food tours to delicious tasting menus, Slow Food Causeway has a host of delicious events to choose from.

Here are 4 Slow Food events not to be missed this November:

1. A Taste of Mussenden by Mussenden Seasalt

Friday 5th November, 7pm to 10:30pm. 

Join Mussenden Sea Salt for an evening of luxury dining where sustainability meets great taste, in the beautiful surroundings of Mussenden Temple. 

You’ll be warmly welcomed by our hosts and guided along the atmospheric Downhill Demense to the steps of the Mussenden Temple, where your delectable eight course menu and white wine pairing awaits.

The menu for the evening will be crafted by none other than Paula McIntyre MBE, and will feature dishes from BBC Hamley Kitchen, showcasing the very best of the Slow Food movement here, in Northern Ireland.

The first of its kind, this event is the perfect way to kickstart the Slow Food Causeway experience.

For more information, click HERE

2. Guided Forage And Feast Walking Tour With Ursa Minor

Saturday 6^th November and Tuesday 9th November, from 10am. 

Ursa Minor Bakehouse is known as one of the best bakeries along the North Coast. Creating bespoke, honest bakes that are crafted from high-quality local ingredients, encompassing the speciality of slow food with each of their creations.

This walking tour will be led by local tour guide, Ewen Friers, who will tell you all about the history of the area and the vast culture surrounding it.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the art of foraging, the hunt for wild food resources, with Clare McQuillan from Feasting With Weeds as you learn about the natural world around us. 

The guided tour will also feature a picnic feast on the majestic Causeway cliff tops, allowing you to appreciate the spectacular scenery as you bask in a panoramic view.

For more information on the 6th November event, click HERE and for the 9th November event, click HERE 

3. Sourdough Making Classes by Ursa Minor

Sunday 14th November and Sunday 28th November, 9am to 5pm

Have you ever wanted to learn the art of traditional sourdough making? 

Voted Best Slow Food Bakery in 2020, Ursa Minor invites you to get up close and personal with their professional bakers to learn about the craft of sourdough. During the event, participants will create three different types of sourdough bread. Guests will receive refreshments of tea, coffee and Ursa Minor nibbles in between baking. 

Get the behind the scenes experience from one of the North Coast’s most popular bakeries, with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere guaranteed.

To read more click HERE for the 14th November event and HERE for 28th November.

4. Bushmills Banquet at Causeway Visitor Centre

Friday 19th November, 7pm to 11pm

To celebrate the first month of Slow Food Causeway, we are hosting a red carpet event featuring a sensational feast crafted by local chefs along with an exclusive tasting menu from the famous Old Bushmills Distillery. 

Tickets include a drinks reception and delicious canapes to get your evening of wondrous tasting started. Guests will then sample a grazing platter, small plates and tasters, as well as scrumptious desserts that are all created in line with the Slow Food movement, showcasing the very best of our local produce. 

You will also enjoy a relaxing nightcap in the historic Causeway Hotel, the perfect way to end your evening. 

For more information, click HERE 

Taste Causeway is delivering Slow Food Causeway with funding from Tourism NI in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. 

For more information go to tastecauseway.com/slow-food-causeway or follow the hashtags #SlowFoodCauseway and #TasteCauseway  

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Christmas Switch on Events will take place across the Borough from Friday 19 November until Saturday 4 December. This year’s theme is ‘A Superhero Christmas’ and with the help of Mr. Hullabaloo and friends, we will all learn that to be a true superhero doesn`t require us to fly or to wear a special costume.

Our special Christmas Show hosted by Cool FMs Stuart Robinson, will celebrate Key workers and will include School Choirs, Traditional Music Groups, Bands and other local artistes along with an exciting pantomime performance by Children’s Magical Storyteller Mr Hullabaloo and Friends who will teach us that ‘A true hero isn`t measured by the power of his strength but by the strength of his heart’.

This FREE family fun event will also feature a Christmas Market, Street Entertainment, Son et lumiere show and a short programme of Christmas Readings, Carols and Music.

A Super finale will see a number of our Favourite Superhero’s lending their magic power as they help the Mayor and Santa Claus Light up our towns for Christmas.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Billy Webb said: “I am delighted that we can celebrate Christmas once more as a community, coming together to celebrate this special time of year. This year’s Superhero theme is the perfect opportunity to pay tribute and give thanks to all the heroes that live around us each day.”

We hope you can join us for A Superhero Christmas, an evening of festive fun with lots of prizes to be won!!

For details of all switch on events please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmasswitchon

Our Christmas switch on events will also be available to watch live, online, keep an eye on our social media and website for further details.

Screenings of a heartfelt drama filmed and set in Northern Ireland are set to take place in Limavady and Portstewart.

The opportunity to watch ‘Nowhere Special’ is part of the Film Hub NI Collective programme which aims to bring local films to local places.

Tickets are available now for the screenings which will take place in Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre on Thursday 11th November at 7pm and Flowerfield Arts Centre on Thursday 9th December at 7pm.

Nowhere Special, written and directed by award winning Italian filmmaker Uberto Pasolini, stars James Norton as a single father and it introduces young actor Daniel Lamont from Ballymena as Michael, his son.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Richard Holmes, said: “We are delighted that Film Hub NI is bringing ‘Nowhere Special’ to both of our Arts Centres during November and December, offering film fans in the Borough a chance to enjoy this special film on a cinema screen here.

“It’s a great endorsement for these fantastic local facilities – if you’ve never been before then please consider booking a ticket for a big screen experience with a difference.”

Sara Gunn-Smith, Marketing and Audiences Officer for Film Hub NI says: “Film Hub NI is delighted to be able to bring this original and beautiful film to 11 venues across Northern Ireland for audiences to enjoy.  With so many brilliant community cinemas signed up for the tour, it is evident that the appetite for independent film is alive and well and that film lovers cannot wait to return to the cinema. Audiences can look forward to seeing the film, along with some special guests that will join us on a few dates.”

Uberto Pasolini, Director, Nowhere Special said: “Filming Nowhere Special in Northern Ireland was one of the highlights of my 35 years of filmmaking. The quality of the crew, the brilliance of the Northern Irish actors, the welcome we received everywhere during our shoot, and of course the amazing talents of Daniel and James enabled us to achieve what on paper appeared impossible, an honest yet moving portrait of a very special relationship, a love story between a young father and his very small boy growing through the most difficult circumstances. It is with great pride that we share our journey with your audiences.”

FHNI is part of the BFI Film Audience Network, a UK wide project to ensure that the greatest choice of film is available to diverse audiences across Northern Ireland. The initiative is supported through National Lottery funding, distributed by the British Film Institute.

Tickets cost £5 and are available to purchase from the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre Box Office on 028 7776 0650 or Flowerfield Arts Centre Box Office on 028 7083 1400.

To book online for Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nowhere-special-film-screening-tickets-193581987937

To book online for Flowerfield Arts Centre visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/film-screening-nowhere-special-tickets-195016257877

Full COVID-19 Guidelines for the Film Screening at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural  Centre can be found here: https://www.roevalleyarts.com/events/film-nowhere-special

Flowerfield COVID guidance is available here: https://www.flowerfield.org/assets/documents/Covid-safety-at-Flowerfield-Arts-Centre.docx

For further information about the Film Hub NI Collective Tour of Nowhere Special visit: https://www.filmhubni.org/now-showing-tags/collective/

With over 1 million people expected to visit the Belfast Christmas Market this year, operators Market Place Europe are working hard to ensure a safe visit is had by all.

During the weekends when the market is expected to be busy, visitors will need to supply evidence of vaccination, or take a lateral flow test before being granted access. In addition, footfall will be closely monitored and when nearing capacity, a queuing system will be put in place. There will be a number of hand sanitising stations throughout the market and visitors will be encouraged to wear masks and make payments using cards instead of cash where possible. 

With work due to begin on 7 November (pausing for the services of Remembrance), local construction team MR Services will transform City Hall grounds into the award-winning annual Market. For almost two weeks they will be hammering, securing structures, and building chalets to create the Christmas Village in time for the opening of the Market on Saturday 20 November at 12noon.

The Belfast Christmas Market will be supporting two of the Lord Mayor’s charities this year one of which is Positive Life, the only charity in Northern Ireland dedicated to supporting people living with and affected by HIV.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Kate Nicholl said: “The arrival of the Christmas Market at City Hall is always eagerly anticipated and especially this year, given last season’s absence. Having the market in the heart of the city provides an invaluable boost to the city’s retail and tourism offering, and I have no doubt it will be hugely popular with visitors as always. I’m also really pleased that once again the market will be raising awareness of local charities and their services, as well as hopefully raising some much-needed funds to support their vital work.”

The Belfast Christmas Market attracts visitors from across Europe and has become a significant contributor to the local economy. 1,261,666 visitors came to the market in 2019. The overall gross economic impact of the 2019 market was a staggering £75.7m, demonstrating the citywide benefit of such a large and well organised event.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place (operators of the Belfast Christmas Market) said: “We’re delighted that once again the sights and sounds of the Belfast Christmas Market will form a focal point for the city centre during the festive season and given our focus on the safety of visitors, we would encourage people to visit during the week to avoid busy times.”

This year the food court at the Market with bench style seating makes a welcome return, as does the vintage Helter Skelter, offering stunning views right across the market, and the much-loved carousel.

Support for local food and craft has increased with a number of St George’s Market traders joining in the festive fun. Some local favourites will also be returning including Pappas Minerals and Tapitas, Rossi’s Ice Cream and the incredible social enterprise Outside In who will be donning their tinsel and Santa hats to help the homeless. 

As well as even more local flavour, the Market still offers something a little bit different with 32 nationalities from all over the world bringing all sorts of unusual foods and gift ideas: crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkegrill, Spanish paella and sweets from Italy. Visitors can also treat themselves to the well known Hug in a Mug of Gluhwein from the prize winning Kochem vineyard located in the Mosel Valley, Germany, or end the day in one of the bars serving local and continental drinks to get even more into the Christmas spirit.

For those who need a momentary escape from festive over stimulation and the hustle and bustle of the market, a Quiet Room has been created. Visitors can request use of this calm space by visiting the Manager’s office.

Market traders will once again be receiving awareness training about the JAM ‘Just A Minute’ Card, a social innovation from NOW Group that offers a discreet way for users to tell people that sometimes they need a little extra time and patience. The JAM Card is available in the Quiet Room at the Market as a credit card sized card and the app can also be downloaded for smartphones.

There are a limited number of spaces available for traders selling high quality goods, and there is a particular interest in those selling vegan and vegetarian festive food. If you are able to trade for the duration of the market, simply visit www.marketplaceurope.co.uk, click on the ‘Traders area’ button on the top right of the page where you can sign up as an interested Trader. Prices vary according to product and pitch size; once an application is approved traders will be advised on costs.

Traders are always keen to employ local staff, if you are interested in joining the team and working at the Christmas Market please drop an email to info@mpel.co.uk

There is so much on offer throughout the city this year and the Christmas Market is just one of several events launching as part of the Christmas festivities. Christmas enchanted evenings run from 6.30pm to 9pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 November. Throughout the ‘Once Upon a Time’ themed season, visitors can enjoy a dazzling array of street performance, light projections, music, dance and window animation and from 27 November there will be magical pop-up entertainment every Saturday and Sunday across the city from 1pm-5pm.

To keep track of Christmas Market news, and the ever-important weather updates, follow the official Facebook page at Belfast Continental Christmas Market and keep an eye out for our TikTok channel launching this year!

Belfast Christmas Market will be at the City Hall from 12noon on Saturday 20 November until 6pm on 23 December. 

Opening hours are: 

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm 

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

The Causeway Coast and Glens is Northern Ireland’s first accredited Slow Food destination, Taste Causeway, the collaborative network of local food and drink businesses was awarded the accolade by the global Slow Food Movement following a rigorous assessment process. 

To launch and celebrate this prestigious award Taste Causeway are running a six month programme of events, dining experiences, tours and special menus.

The global organisation dedicated to nurturing good, clean and fair food is coming to Northern Ireland from next month as iconic venues along the Causeway Coast come together to launch Slow Food Causeway by Taste Causeway.

Gary Quate, Food and Drink Experience Development Officer from Tourism NI said: “The launch of Slow Food Causeway presents a unique opportunity for visitors to embrace the exceptional food and drink offer of the Causeway Coast and Glens.

“With an outstanding array of fresh local ingredients, passionate producers, award winning chefs and dynamic distillers and brewers, Slow Food Causeway will provide visitors with an exciting programme of unique foodie experiences amidst the stunning backdrop of the region. 

“Tourism Northern Ireland are delighted to support the programme and the Slow Food accreditation is indicative of the quality of experience that visitors can expect. The enticing calendar of immersive foodie experiences offers something for everyone and is a celebration of the quality, innovation and creativity of our industry” he added.

Kicking off on November 5 to end March 2022, the programme will showcase the Slow Food ethos dedicated to supporting local artisan producers as well as spreading awareness of local food traditions and culture. 

Highlights include unique dining experience collaborations with the National Trust at the stunning Mussenden Temple and iconic Causeway Visitor Centre, a three day Slow Food and Drink Festival in March 2022 and a packed schedule of supper clubs, special menus, workshops and cookery classes, food tours involving over 60 local food and drink businesses.    

Sharon Scott from Taste Causeway who are delivering Slow Food Causeway with funding from Tourism NI in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “Taste Causeway is  one of only a handful of accredited Slow Food destinations in Ireland to be awarded the accolade by the global Slow Food Movement. 

“Slow Food was initially founded by a group of activists in Italy during the 1980s with the aim of defending regional traditions, good food, gastronomic pleasure and a slow pace of life but has since grown into a global movement involving millions of people, in over 150 countries that links the pleasure of food with a commitment to the community and the environment.  We at Taste Causeway are proud to become part of this global food movement.”

Slow Food Northern Ireland is headed by chef Paula McIntyre MBE said she’s delighted to be part of the launch of Slow Food Causeway.

“Having worked closely with the producers, chefs and growing number of food tourism businesses and food retailers involved in Taste Causeway for many years now, their ethics and attention to great provenance is the perfect fit for the international Slow Food movement” said Paula, adding: “The varied, exciting programme of launch events is testament to the drive, tenacity  and imagination of these local businesses, who are only just recovering from the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic and will be a must for genuine food lovers across the island of Ireland.

“There are plenty of accommodation options available to make a fantastic short winter and early Spring break.”

The Slow Food campaign aims to reinvigorate people’s interest in the food they eat, where it comes from and how our food choices affect the world around us. 

Chairman of Slow Food UK Shane Holland said: “We are delighted to award Slow Food Destination accreditation to Slow Food Causeway, in an area with such outstanding produce, and where consumers are looking for genuinely good local food.  

“With the support of Taste Causeway, we are delighted to see a network of local food and drink businesses from right across the local supply chain, collaborating and working together to deliver the aim and ethos of Slow Food across all parts of the destination.”

“We protect our logo fiercely, as it is recognised across the world as a quality marque endorsing Good, Clean and Fair food.  Wherever you see this iconic, internationally recognised logo displayed, you will be certain to find great local food which sustains the local economy, is produced to the highest standards, is of the place and respects the local environment.”

For more information about Slow Food Causeway go to tastecauseway.com/slow-food-causeway or follow the hashtags #SlowFoodCauseway and #TasteCauseway  

Gallery 545 is thrilled to present an exhibition double bill in Malone Road, Belfast. Two exciting exhibitions will run in two different locations on the Malone Road featuring over twenty accomplished artists based in Northern Ireland, showcasing a curated selection of affordable original artworks. The gallery is delighted to welcome visitors to its premises at Blick Studios or the neighbouring Harrison Hotel.

‘Gallery 545 Group Exhibition’

13 November – 5 December. Opening on Saturday 13 Nov, 1.30-5.30pm

Open on Thu, Fri, Sat 10.30am-5.30pm & Sun 1-5.30pm

Blick Studios, 51 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6RY

and

‘Gallery 545 at the Harrison: Artists on the Rise Pop-up’

5 November – 5 December. Opening on Friday 5 Nov, 4-8pm

Open on Thu, Fri, Sat 10.30am-5.30pm & Sun 1-5.30pm

Harrison Chambers of Distinction, 45 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6RX

Online www.gallery545.com 

The Group Exhibition at Blick Studios is an annual show organised by Gallery 545 bringing together emerging and established artists who have encountered recognition in Northern Ireland and further afield. A diverse art selection will be on display encompassing stunning paintings, exquisite works on paper, unique sculptures, and beautiful mixed media pieces. Among the artworks will be atmospheric landscapes, intriguing scenes, fascinating figures, and delicate or bold abstract compositions.

This show features artists represented by Gallery 545: Lisa Ballard, Ronan Bowes, Majella Clancy, Alacoque Davey, Ray Duncan, Craig Donald, Karl Hagan, Eamonn Higgins, Trina Hobson, Ashely B Holmes, Janet Keith, Rachel Lawell, Louise Lennon, Aimee Melaugh, Sandra Maze, Rosie McGurran, Noel Murphy, Latisha Reihill, Joel Simon, Katherine St Angelo, Charlie Scott, Jennifer Trouton and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

Artists on the Rise involves Gallery 545 joining forces with the Harrison Chambers of Distinction to organise a unique art pop-up dedicated to up-and-coming talents across Northern Ireland, featuring Ronan Bowes, Karl Hagan, Janet Keith, Rachel Lawell, Joel Simon and Katherine St Angelo.

These six incredibly talented painters will exhibit their distinctive artworks within a relaxing interior setting – vibrant gestural abstract paintings, intense emotive landscapes, portraits of charismatic women and captivating semi-figurative works.

Visitors coming to see both shows will have the opportunity to explore and discover new artists and artworks and celebrate the wealth of talent in the region; with many unique and affordable artworks on display they could easily find the perfect piece for their home or office.

All artworks can be purchased in person at Gallery 545 at Blick Studios or online at www.gallery545.com. The gallery will accept the Spend Local prepaid card for in person payments. 

Visiting the exhibitions – There will be measures in place because of Covid-19 to keep visitors safe. The number of those allowed in the spaces will be limited to 12 people at Blick Studios and 8-10 people at the Harrison. 

A familiar face in Belfast’s hospitality scene is set to a return to its Cathedral Quarter home next month.

The eclectic restaurant, Made In Belfast, will open its doors once again in the historic Cathedral Quarter on November 4, with owner Emma Bricknell keen to get back serving up fresh, hearty food for the people across the city.

“I’m excited about being open again. This venue was the busiest restaurant we had and it’s in the coolest of areas so yeah I’m really looking forward to it.” she said.

The Talbot Street location which opened in 2010 was one of three venues that the Made In Belfast chain had with venues at the iconic City Hall and Hill Street but due to ongoing structural issues and the impact of Covid-19, Emma had to make the decision to streamline her business and halt any expansions to the restaurant chain.

“That’s the nature of the game, nothing lasts forever. You work hard and do other things as the food movement moves on.” she explained.

Recently the Blondtreprenuer Ltd owner closed Prawnagraphic, a Californian inspired seafood restaurant in Hill Street which served locally sourced fish and cocktails closed its doors due to an ongoing sewage problem in the area. 

After a rocky 18 months, Emma believes now is the perfect time to focus her efforts on Made In Belfast and embark on a new journey with the restaurant chain.

“We’ve been closed for a long time so opening now feels like the right thing to do and I think being in one venue streamlines the staff and any issues that I’ve faced previously in other locations”. 

Made In Belfast has gone back to its roots and will serve up high quality gastro Modern European cuisine in a chilled environment, making it the perfect venue for after work drinks or a family get together. 

Opening from Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to late, the latest menu will have tasty options for everyone from those who are gluten free to vegan. 

Emma reassured her customers that Made In Belfast has kept up their commitment to working with local suppliers to provide great food for the people that make Belfast. 

“We’ve got a great team in the kitchen involved with a similar kind of menu as before and we are working with locally sourced products. We were never about fancy food, just a good proper feed.”

For anyone who wants to book a table, Made In Belfast operates a strict online booking only system.

To keep up to date with the latest information, follow Made In Belfast on Facebook and Instagram or to book your table go to mibni.co.uk. 

A new platform for businesses in the property sector is set to launch at the end of this year. 

Northern Ireland’s first online resource of its kind, the NI Property Hub, will help bring business together under one roof to showcase the products and services they supply to the property sector.

Founders Heather Macartney and Natasha McGurk have merged their years of experience working within the property sector to fill a gap in the market that will provide local businesses with the tools they need to help secure their future and widen their audience all across Northern Ireland. 

“There is little help or financial support available to help grow your business and maximise its potential so we hope that the Hub will provide an affordable platform where business owners can do just that” Heather explained.

The property market has faced a lot of hurdles since the 2008 recession and with the most recent impact of Covid, Heather and Natasha are keen to reassure business owners that The Hub will be a robust source of help, information and advice that will become the go-to place in Northern Ireland.  

“It’s so important to us as business owners ourselves that we help the Northern Irish market to be a sustainable environment in this sector” said Heather.

The Hub is aimed at businesses all over Northern Ireland who provide excellent service and products to their customers and be more than just a business directory.

“Our comprehensive property platform will cover everything a property owner, landlord or business might need in just one stop.

“We are looking for anyone who has  innovative ideas and products coming on to the market to register and advertise their products and services on the Hub through video content, blogs and podcasts.”

Content will be targeted at a range of audiences such as first time buyers, home owners, landlords and investors who can visit the Hub for tips on a range of topics such as interior design, links to trades and services or advice on mortgages and insurance. 

By registering on the Hub, business owners can choose from a variety of listings depending on their budget. 

The Hub will be advertised widely across social media, press and radio advertising to help get businesses found by prospective clients and partners. 

For more information, visit the NI Property Hub on Facebook or contact 028 9600 9621