Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has joined forces with Fidra, a Scottish based environmental group, to launch ‘The Great Nurdle Hunt’ around our iconic beaches and coastline.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Sean Bateson, pictured at Ballycastle Beach with Environmental Resources Officer Janice Dunlop, is calling on members of the public to take part in ‘The Great Nurdle Hunt’ around our iconic beaches and coastline as part of the Council’s #LitterSmart initiative.
Fidra shines a light on environmental
issues, working with the public, industry and governments to deliver pragmatic,
evidence-based solutions for a healthy environment and sustainable societies.
Fidra developed The Great Nurdle Hunt, a citizen science project to encourage
people in coastal areas to look for and record ‘nurdles’.
Nurdles
are small plastic pellets which, when melted together, are used by industry to
make nearly all our plastic products. They end up in the ocean, dispersed
by currents and wind and are washed up on beaches across the globe. We
want to see if they are present on our coastline and then record the
information as part of a global citizen science project.
Nurdles
attract other pollutants and can be mistaken for food by sea birds and other
marine animals. One fulmar found in the North Sea had 273 nurdles in its
stomach!
The
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Sean Bateson said:
“It’s really important we build up a picture of nurdles along our coastline as
part of our other ongoing litter activity under our LitterSmart banner. We
are excited to be part of the worldwide Nurdle Hunt movement and are
grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Fidra on this initiative.
Plastics have a significant impact on the overall health of our marine and
coastal environments and there are a host of opportunities for everyone to get
involved in making this place we call home better.’
Jasper
Hamlet from Fidra commented: ‘We are delighted to have the support of Causeway
Coast and Glens Borough Council and hope that many people can take part in The
Great Nurdle Hunt along this beautiful part of the Northern Irish coastline.
Taking part in The Great Nurdle Hunt is fun, easy and contributes vital data to
our worldwide picture of nurdle pollution. All you need to do is head to a
beach, look for nurdles and let us know how you get on by submitting your data
on our website. The information we gather from nurdle hunters adds to the
evidence of this form of pollution and supports our case calling for immediate
action to prevent further loss of plastic pellets.’
Council
is appealing for volunteers to help carry out this vital research.
Support will be provided so if you’re interested please contact:
Shake off the Christmas turkey, grab your handbags and don your gladrags as the Rod Stewart tribute is set for a special show on December 27 as Lee Hedley brings Tonight’s The Night to Belfast’s Empire for all fans of Rod The Mod.
The rocking, high energy show will see Lee bring to life the man and his music, with a tour de force show that has earned rave reviews.
Expect a packed house of Sweet Little Rock ‘n’ Rollers grooving along to the likes of Proud Mary, Don’t Want to Talk About It and, of course Maggie May.
Lee said that performing a tribute to Rod was special for him and audiences.
“Rod Stewart has such a legacy demonstrating that music can really move you,” he said. “It’s the measure of the man that at the marriage of a couple that was delayed because of the Thomas Cook collapse he turned up at the wedding to sing Have I Told You Lately.
“Generations have loved his music. Rod has inspired me throughout my career and I hope the audience at the Empire will love every second.”
Lee’s show in Waterford’s Theatre Royal was reviewed by the Munster Express saying: “Hedley had the moves, the chutzpah, the raspy Rod Stewart voice, and he got the audience going”
Lee Hedley is one of Northern Ireland’s leading performers with The Lee Hedley Blues Band, bringing his blend of classic rock, blues and jazz to venues across the country and playing festivals such as The Belfast Blues Festival, as well as touring in the US, Europe and even in Libya.
“I want to bring the excitement and joy of shows by Sir Rod Stewart to Belfast,” Lee said.
“There are so many tunes that have become iconic and are loved by so many that it is a privilege and delight to not only sing them, but to see the response from the crowd.”
“With Rod currently in remission from prostate cancer he remains as ever committed to recording with last year’s ‘Blood Red Roses’ charting and packed with memorable tunes. I hope to bring that energy and joy to the Empire for what will be a special post-Christmas show.”
Rod might sing – and Lee will too on the 27 – Some Guys Have All The Luck but your luck will be in when you see Tonight’s The Night.
As well s Lee and the seven-piece band, the Empire show will also have DJ Will Reynolds playing ‘Classic Gold Roadshow’ tunes.
Christmas visitors to the Cathedral Quarter this year be able shop for unique seasonal gifts while being entertained and supporting those less fortunate.
St Anne’s Cathedral Belfast will open its doors to a stunning Art and Craft Bazaar this Christmas in aid of the Black Santa Charity.
The Black Santa Night Time Bazaar runs from 5pm to 10.30pm on Saturday December 14.
Set to be a magical night, the event will see more than 100 stalls of the best art and crafts, vintage and food.
A woodland walk through the crypt will lead to a stunning stretch tent packed with artisan food vendors and Live DJs
The Jazz Bus is making its first appearance this Christmas, where you can sip a craft beer, cocktail or a hot drink and listen to stunning live jazz. There will be music from local seasonal choirs with special guests and the best DJs in the city.
The bazaar is a fully family-friendly evening with lots of surprises.
Organiser Caroline Baker of Little Fox Events says there will be something for everyone – and that’s no exaggeration.
“From entertainment, music, drink and food, to the best artisan and craft items available, there will be plenty to see and do and buy.
“As well as helping the Black Santa charity appeal, you will also be supporting small, local, independent businesses and keeping the carbon footprints down!”
“So, get into the festive spirit and make it a date to come down to Belfast Cathedral and join in the fun.”
The event is supported by the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District initiative and Belfast Music City Council.
CQ BID manager Gareth Neill says it’s an exciting new development for the Quarter over the Christmas season.
He said: “Everyone involved in the BID is looking forward to the bazaar which is the latest offering in the area.
“It involves small local business, entertainers and musicians, artisan foodmakers, crafters and best of all, while people are shopping and having fun, they can donate and support those less fortunate at this festive time of year – what’s not to like?
We hope people will come out in their droves to support the bazaar, and the Black Santa charity, as people have been doing loyally here for many years.”
It looks like being a record-breaking year at The Market Place Theatre in Armagh, as tickets for the annual pantomime spectacular, ‘Beauty And The Beast’, look set to sell-out for most performances.
The venue’s reputation for staging the most fun-filled and family-friendly festive productions will no doubt have led to the ‘House Full’ sign being a regular feature over the coming weeks.
‘Beauty And The Beast’ is the
greatest love story ever told, but told in a way you’ll never have seen the
like of before! Audiences can expect an action-packed show bursting with magic,
music and plenty of mayhem!
Dreaming
of a happier life, the beautiful Belle finds herself transported to a
spellbound castle and held captive by a hideous beast. Can she see beyond the
monster and fall in love with her captor before the last petal falls from the
enchanted rose? Or will the Beast’s selfishness cost him the world he once knew
and the hand of the girl that has melted his heart?
Beauty
And The Beast will be sure to make you laugh, cry and fall in love with a host
of hilarious and hairy characters. Who – or what – is the creature that walks
the long corridors of the enchanted home? And will he ever find love?
‘Beauty
And The Beast’ promises an unforgettably festive experience coupled with The
Market Place Theatre’s renowned reputation for high quality, professional
pantomimes that are up there with the best.
Performances will run from Saturday 30
November, right up to Sunday 22 December, at a variety of times to suit all
ages! Ticket prices range from £11 to £16. Hurry to secure your tickets – it
would be beastly if you missed out!
The annual Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre is taking place in Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November.
Knitted products by Wee Yarn Design, one of the craft makers who will be taking part in the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre at Ards Arts Centre on 29 and 30 November.
An array of local craft makers and artists will once again provide an opportunity to purchase a range of unique, local, handcrafted products.
The
festive Fayre, now in its seventh year, is
organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council and will feature 28 craft
makers and artists in the galleries of the Arts Centre. Come along and enjoy
complimentary refreshments and browse the stalls for that inspirational gift.
Free gift wrapping will be available. Admission is free.
There
will also be festive live music by pianists Lisa Dawson on Friday and Ruth
McCavery on Saturday from 12-2pm on both days.
Speaking
about the Fayre, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager with Ards and North
Down Borough Council said: “Ards Arts Centre is delighted to once again host
the annual Creative Peninsula Art and Craft Fayre. The event brings together
some of the finest artist and makers in our Borough, with beautifully curated
stalls to meet all your festive shopping needs.
You’ll
find quirky handmade prints, an array of beautiful ceramics, jewellery in
silver and ceramic, fabulous and affordable fine art and intricate papercraft
to name just a few. With complimentary refreshments, gift wrapping and festive
music, don’t miss this atmospheric opportunity to support your local artists
and makers with a handmade treat for you or a loved one!”
Christmas baubles by Victoria Bentham, one of the artists who will be at the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre at Ards Arts Centre on 29 and 30 November.
The
Fayre runs from 10am – 5pm on Friday 29 and 10am – 4.30pm on Saturday 30
November.
Visitors
to Saturday’s Fayre can also enjoy the Festive Market and Newtownards Christmas
Lights Switch on taking place on High Street and Conway Square from 10am – 6pm.
Local Sure Start families had the chance to enjoy some festive cheer at the exclusive launch of Titanic Belfast’s A Magical Christmas Experience.
Evelyn Erhabor and her children Amy, Danielle and Isiah from Sure Start, are pictured with one of Titanic Belfast’s Magical Christmas Experience’s elves.
15 families were invited by East Belfast’s Sure Start to see Father Christmas arrive and launch A Magical Christmas Experience. They were the first to step through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter into the Elves’ Workshop, join Mrs Claus at her cosy kitchen, hear Christmas tales, enjoy festive games, badge making, look up their names on the naughty or nice list and meet Father Christmas himself.
Sure Start is a programme that works with families with children under the age of four in the 25% most disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland. It aims to improve health, social development and the ability to learn by promoting parents’ involvement.
Aware that Christmas can often be a difficult time, the event enabled these families to celebrate the joy of the festive season together, which the charity is passionate about. The charity is encouraging families to use Christmas as “anytime is chatting time” this year. By smiling, talking, laughing, singing and sharing stories parents can help their development.
Sure Start East Belfast coordinator, Tracey Wilson, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time and we are so grateful to Titanic Belfast for giving our Peer Support and Young Mums’ families a break from the stress of the festive season through this unique event. The festive season can be a wonderful time for families to be together and create some lovely memories, like this event did. It is also the perfect opportunity to talk to your child, sing songs and read stories, which will not only help them learn to talk and concentrate but also make friends,so this Christmas, we are encouraging everyone to make anytime chatting time.”
Titanic Belfast’s Chief Executive, Judith Owens, commented: “Christmas is a truly magical time of year and our Experience is all about embracing festive cheer and creating unique memories. We are really pleased to host local families from Sure Start together and hope we have added something special to the lives of these very deserving families!”
Titanic Belfast’s Magical Christmas Experience runs until 23 December, to book, visit www.titanicbelfast.com.
All will be revealed about the secrets of online writing at a free Blogging Inspiration session at Newry City Library on Thursday, 28 November from 6:00pm to 7:30pm.
The Libraries NI event is designed to encourage potential bloggers to get started and will provide hints, tips and tricks towards success as well as giving participants an inside glimpse of the enjoyment of being a blogger.
Speakers will include Kilkeel woman Maura Ward, famed for her blog, the Geriatric Traveller and online safety expert Wayne Denner.
Seventy year old Maura started her blog after being inspired by her son’s online travel diary which started to make him money.
She said: “I must confess that as he reported the income rising, the more interested I became.
“Eventually, in 2012, I decided to blog about the travelling I was doing, but I aim mine at an older demographic – and there begins the saga of Geriatric Traveller.
“Initially I was very gung-ho and devoted considerable time and effort to it. I made a small amount of money, but nothing that was going to change my life.
“Soon afterwards I started my Geriatric Traveller Facebook page as well, largely because I hoped it would be a conduit to my website. “I am constantly amazed at the interest the page generates, and it gives me such a good feeling.
“Without any conscious effort on my part, I have amassed some 3300 page followers, and a recent post had over 6000 views, which was absolutely gobsmacking.”
Newry dad Wayne Denner, founder of podcast Zero Lives Left came to blogging from a different angle.
He said it started almost by accident through his background in online safety.
“I realised that many parents had questions when it came to keeping children and young People in their care safer online and that they needed useful and helpful information.
“I decided to create an Online Safety blog to provide helpful and practical online safety information for Parents, Carers and those who work with Children and Young People.
“It has now become one of the most trusted and respected eSafety blogs in the UK and Ireland.”
He said blogging has given him the opportunity to build and create his own personal brand and a place to communicate with a much larger audience.
This has led to video blogging and podcasting becoming a central part of his communication strategy and has led to him becoming a regular media commentator with BBC, ITV, RTE, Virgin Media Ireland & u105.
Wayne said: “Everyone has a story to tell & value to add and blogging provides people with an easy and simple way to express themselves and create content.
“For many people, me included, the hardest part was starting.
“I am not a natural writer in fact in the early days it was something I struggled with but like with anything over time my style and the writing improved.
“One of the most important and rewarding things for me personally is the content that I am creating is helping people that’s what makes the difference.
“It’s the feeling that you get when you receive an email from a reader who says ‘Thank You’ the piece of content that you created helped then when it comes to Online Safety.
‘I am delighted to be involved in the #GetBloggingNI session in Newry City Library, as a local content creator and blogger it’s great to be able to share my experience & learnings to help inspire others to start on their content creation journey.
Chartered Marketer Christine Watson of Training Matchmaker will facilitate the session, which is hosted by journalist and content creator, Tina Calder of the Content Club and Excalibur Press.
Christine said blogging is no longer the preserve of the few.
“In recent years there has been a surge in interest in blogging, vlogging and podcasting across Northern Ireland.
“It’s a fantastic way to connect with like-minded people, immerse yourself in your passions, keep your mind healthy and active and an excellent excuse to get out and about and use your local library. “Attendees at the Blogging Inspiration event in Newry City Library will be sure to leave with the motivation, encouragement and practical knowhow they need to begin or amplify their blogging journey.”
Libraries NI Service Development Manager Julie Reid said: “Libraries NI is pleased to offer this free Blogging Inspiration event to introduce people to the art of blogging.
“Storytelling is forever evolving and blogging, vlogging and podcasting is quickly becoming the new platform for telling stories through text, images and video.
“Whether you’re blogging for business, documenting your family history or keeping a record of travelling expeditions, you’re using the power of words to tell a story.”
“We’re delighted to once again team up with Christine Watson to present this event at Newry City Library on Thursday 28 November and look forward to welcoming our speakers Maura Ward and Wayne Denner as well as host Tina Calder to the library.”
The event at Newry City Library is part of the ongoing Libraries NI #GetBloggingNI series which will run into 2020 across Northern Ireland.
Officially presented by TrainingMatchmaker.com in collaboration with Libraries NI, previous events in the #GetBloggingNI series included Blogging Inspiration sessions, a six-week Get Blogging Course and five Blogging for Wellness roadshows.
This event is free and booking is essential. Book your place at Newry City Library on 28 November at: trainingmatchmaker.eventbrite.com
Lyngo Theatre’s magical family show Heart of Winter is coming to the Queens Hall, Newtownards on Saturday 30 November at 2pm and 7pm.
Lyngo Theatre’s Heart of Winter show is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Queens Hall, Newtownards, 30 November. 2pm & 7pm.
Ards and North Down Borough
Council welcomes this festive show which is sure to get everyone in the mood
for Christmas! The musical production celebrates family, friendship and the
good fortune of finding the winter we really need and want with the precious
offering of fluffy snow.
Christmas is coming and Sally can’t sleep – it’s far too hot! The
weather has gone topsy-turvy. No-one can remember the last time it snowed, or
even rained, and her father can’t sell any of his umbrellas. To help her sleep
Dad reads her a story about the last snowflake.
That night Sally has a dream that changes everything – a mysterious
silver spark transforms her bedroom into a glistening, white field where she
meets the glowing heart of Winter.
Speaking about the show, Community
Arts Officer with Ards and North Down Borough Council, Amy McKelvey said: “We are very excited about bringing
this beautiful Christmas show to Newtownards. Lyngo performances are always so
magical and utterly unique, it is the perfect way to kick off the festivities
for all the family.”
Tickets cost £5. The show
is suitable for ages 3 +. Duration 1 hour.
For
further information and booking, please visit www.ardsarts.com
As
part of the ‘Taste the Island’ initiative for 12 weeks
DiscoverNorthernIreland.com will have the top three food experiences and events
in their weekly 10 things to do listing. DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has
stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural
events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week including three
food experiences and events (25 Nov – 1 December)
1. Childrens-Christmas-Baking-Workshop
Dungannon, 30 November. Budding bakers can get stuck into Christmas baking in
this fun hands-on class at Wee Buns Cookery School. Guests will learn about
ingredients and baking techniques, pick up handy tips and have a go at piping.
The children will be rolling out the cookies, baking and decorating them with
royal icing. They will also each make and decorate a dozen chocolate fairy
cakes.
2. The-Great-Georgian-Banquet-An-Evening-in-Vienna
Armagh, 29 November. Travel through the mists of time to join a Viennese
banquet in the beautiful Georgian setting of the Archbishop’s Palace in Armagh.
In the splendour of the Archbishops Palace, experience an evening in Vienna.
Enjoy music, dancing and a sumptuous five-course meal with fine wines, evoking
the tastes of the time, served with a modern twist.
3. Sippy-Fest-Craft-Beer-Drinks-Extravaganza
Derry~Londonderry, 29 – 30 November. Sippy Fest started around a kitchen table
in the City of Culture year which then grew to a festival with over 1200 people
enjoying local brews, food and music in the Guildhall. Sippy Fest puts a strong
focus on local produce, as well as allowing people to meet the brewers, discuss
the products in a fun environment, with local live music and more.
4. Friendship-Four-2019
Belfast, 29 – 30 November. The thrill and excitement of American college Hockey
will return to Belfast at the SSE Arena this November. The Friendship Four
tournament is a unique opportunity to watch the only NCAA college hockey
tournament to be held outside of the United States. The tournament will feature
elite hockey players from across the world providing hockey fans with an
exclusive first chance to see up and coming stars of the future
5. Christmas-Lights-Switch-On
Ballycastle, 28 November. The Diamond, Ballycastle will be buzzing for the
Christmas Lights Switch On. Come along and join in the carol singing and
electric atmosphere as the countdown begins with live entertainment before the
arrival of Santa Claus in his horse drawn carriage.
6. Italian-Wine-Dinner
Derry~Londonderry, 29 November. For an evening out with a difference, head over
to Bonds Hill Restaurant for some fabulous Italian Wine Dinner. Enjoy Prosecco
on arrival and a six course tasting menu with perfectly paired wines. A
wonderful dining experience and a delight for foodies and wine lovers.
7. Winter-Wonderland
Enniskillen, 30 November – 14 December. Cancer Connect NI is delighted to
announce the return of their Magical Winter Wonderland to Enniskillen. Once
checked in at the ticket booth, families will be greeted by Mrs Claus and her
elves upon arrival. Following some games and fun entertainment you will be
invited to board their amazing Polar Express which will take you to a secret
castle location
8. A-Journey-Beyond-Prejudice
Belfast, 25 November. This talk, which is part of the CS Lewis festival, will
look into Lewis’s family background in early 20th century Belfast and the
attitudes of that era, followed by Lewis expert Rev. Mercia Flannagan who will
consider how Lewis’s later Christianity was broadened by his friendship with
Tolkien.
9. Observatory-Tours-Armagh
Armagh, 30 November. Follow the Christmas star during a tour of the Armagh
Observatory building. Learn about the Observatory’s history, current scientific
research and its programmes of Science. As an option, you can journey back in
time and learn about the star the Wise Men followed in their Planetarium
seasonal ‘Mystery of the Christmas Star’ dome show.
10. Adventure-Caving-at-the-Marble-Arch-Caves
Enniskillen, 1 December. Delve off the beaten track with an experienced and
qualified Cave Leader to explore the depths of the Marble Arch Caves system.
Alongside a group you will have the opportunity to explore cave passages,
negotiate boulder chambers and clamber through the well-known flyover to emerge
into the public tour of the show cave before navigating your way out.
Santa Claus is coming to town, Banbridge town! Meet him at the annual Christmas Lights Switch On and
Twilight Market event this Friday evening.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere, street
entertainment and visit the magical Twilight
Market showcasing local artists, handmade crafts and Christmas
delights.
Antrim
The
Victorian Street Fair/Steam Saturday in Whitehead takes the form of a street
fair and train rides within the Whitehead Excursion Station premises, with
the chance for visitors to enjoy the unique steam experience. See at close hand how the magnificent steam
locomotive works, talk to the Driver and Fireman and see the footplate.
Armagh
With
seasonal crafts and workshops, real reindeer, a snow globe, light sculptures
and a wide range of stalls selected to appeal especially to children, you will
find the magical Children’s Market a must do for little visitors. The
perfect event to make lasting family memories. This Saturday, The Shambles
Yard, 1.00pm to 7.00pm.
Derry
Join
Santa and his elves in Maghera Walled Garden for some festive fun, or why not
try some arts and crafts in the Lurach Centre, before you follow his
sleigh to the town centre for the Christmas lights switch on. This Saturday
30th November, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.
Fermanagh
Cancer
Connect NI returns with their Magical Winter Wonderland to be held at a secret
location in the heart of Enniskillen. After refreshments, games and
entertainment, board the Polar Express through the town to Santa who has a
special gift for you with an opportunity for photographs.
Tyrone
Na
Fianna Christmas Fair and Christmas Tree Lights Switch in Coalisland takes
place this Sunday 1st December. 1.00pm –
5.00pm at the Parochial Centre and from 4.30pm at the Cornmill Heritage Centre
there will be free face painting, balloon modelling and the opportunity to meet
Santa in his cosy corner.
Belfast
The
Titanic magical Christmas Experience is now open until the 23rd December.
Journey through the Enchanted Forest, the Old Curiosity Shop, the Elves’
Workshop, Mrs Claus’ cosy kitchen, the bustling post office and peek into the
Elves toy shop! Have your name checked off the ‘Naughty or Nice’ list by the
Chief Elf and get to meet Father Christmas!
For
further details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI
and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni for news, competitions and
what’s on near you.
