Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Maldron Hotel, County Londonderry

Enjoy a two-night Shop and Stay get away in the heart of the Walled City with a beautiful breakfast each morning and a two-course meal on an evening of your choice. You can kick off your mid-week stay with a complimentary cocktail before indulging in a little retail therapy. This deal includes a £10 gift card for the Foyle Shopping Centre. From £129 for B&B and dinner based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.maldronhotelderry.com for more information.

Arch House, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh

Fancy a wee break before the flurry of Christmas festivities begin? This award-winning B&B is offering three nights for the price of two, allowing you to rest and relax. Just a short distance from the Island town of Enniskillen, close to the famous Stairway to Heaven, Marble Arch Caves Geo Park and within an easy stroll of Florence Court it’s a perfect spot to explore or just enjoy a winter walk. Dinner is also available on request. From £240 for two people sharing (excluding Saturday). This offer is bookable directly with the property by phone. Visit https://www.archhouse.com for more information.

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, County Down

Indulge yourself in a little pre-Christmas luxury. Begin your stay with a gift box of deluxe treats that will make everything a little more special. Take time to relax by the fire before getting ready for the Coq & Bull dining experience – the finest local produce, beautifully cooked and presented. Retire to your stylish room for a blissful night’s sleep where you can finish off with breakfast in bed the next day. Includes one night B&B, three course dinner, glass of prosecco & a gift box of deluxe treats from £230 for two guests. Visit www.clandeboyelodge.com for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Bishop’s Gate Hotel, County Londonderry

Enjoy a festive shopping break at this beautiful luxury boutique hotel. You can take the edge of your Christmas spend with 10 % off all gift purchases at Walled City Crafters. Then take some me time beginning with a festive cocktail, and a wonderful three course meal. A lovely sanctuary in the city. Dinner, B&B based on two people sharing from £195. Visit https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/  for more information.

Clayton Hotel, County Antrim

What better way to ease into the week than with a lovely city centre hotel, right in the heart of the action. It’s a short walk to Belfast Christmas Market, and all the buzzing bars and restaurants. The Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens are an easy stroll away or there’s fabulous shopping to be had in Victoria Square. Enjoy a late check out of 1pm with this sleepy Sunday offer. B&B and includes a main course for adults and of course there’s free access to the leisure club. From £125.60 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.claytonhotelbelfast.com/ for more information.

Ballygally Castle Hotel, County Antrim

Fancy a coastal mini break with some breath-taking views and timeless elegance? This unique Castle, dating back to 1625, is the only 17th Century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland. This characterful and welcoming hotel is the perfect pre-Christmas stress buster! Visit the lovely Garden Restaurant to kick back and enjoy a hearty meal and festive drink.  B&B from £215 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.ballygallycastlehotel.com/  for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 4-10 December

  1. Glenarm Castle Christmas Experience, Glenarm, County Antrim, 4-20 December. Come see the wonderful grounds of Glenarm Castle transformed into a twinkling, thrilling and tasty wonderland for all the family. There will be storytelling with Mrs Claus and the Polar Express train adventure. Father Christmas and his elves will be waiting with a special gift and the chance to take a special Santa picture. Ride the carousel and enjoy complimentary tea/coffee, biscuits, and refreshments for both adults and children in your ticket price. Check website for booking.
  1. Festive Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast, Belfast County Antrim, 10 December. Fancy some five-star service and fabulous festive luxury then prepare to be spoilt in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite. With the backdrop of the Grand Staircase and the sounds of live jazz music, this afternoon tea with sweet and savoury delights will really get you in the Christmas mood. You also get the chance to be to enjoy this all from replica White Star China. There’s even the option of a special children’s menu with a festive activity gift. Adults will also receive a complimentary festive cocktail on arrival!
  2. Santa Cruise, Killinchy, County Down, 4-31 December. Join a merry old elf who’s swapped his sleigh for a speed boat for a hair-raising ride around the islands of Strangford Lough. There’ll be carol singing and Christmas tunes as you ride the waves back to Santa’s Grotto. There’ll be the chance to get cosy by the fireside in the cabin with mince/apple pies, mulled wine or hot chocolate with a present for children. Wrap up warm and prepare for a fun day out that you will remember long after the mince pies are all eaten!
  3. Le Foyer des Artistes: Midwinter Gala Concert, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 6 December. Enjoy a Midwinter Gala Concert in St Columb’s Hall with Vivaldi’s epic Four Seasons framing the programme. International musicians will play on period baroque instruments to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Venetian masterpiece. Make sure not to miss this special experience.
  4. Santa Sunday, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 10 December. Why not take the pressure off in the run up to Christmas and celebrate with the whole family. Head to the Manor House Country Hotel and enjoy a lavish carvery lunch served with plenty of festive cheer perfect for a pre-Christmas relaxing get together. Tuck into an extra special seasonal dessert table including freshly made crepes whilst listening to festive live music. After your meal, stop by to say hello to Santa and get a professional photo at the Winter Wonderland Grotto. Booking essential.
  1. Mourne Alpacas Christmas Meet ‘n Greet, Dromara, County Down, 9-10 December. Visit this free Christmas pop-up shop on the alpaca farm in aid of Northern Ireland Childrens Hospice. When purchasing a Christmas gift an added 10% gifted on every gift voucher sold across the two-day event! Enjoy a hot chocolate and mince pies, as you get your Alpaca selfie, Alpaca hugs, and get to shop for some fabulous alpaca products in the Christmas shop. Book your car space to ensure your place
  1. Portaferry Christmas Twilight Market, Portaferry, County Down, 10 December. This festive indoor market takes place over two days at St Patrick’s Community Centre. Get into the Christmas spirit with an array of locally produced products, live music, kids crafts and activities, delicious street foods and an outdoor funfair. Admission is free.
  2. Mayor’s Tea Dance, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 6 December. Fancy a bit of nostalgia? The city’s Guildhall will ring to the sound of nostalgic old-time tunes with the chance to take a turn around the dance floor. There’ll be festive eats and it’s all free for local pensioners.
  1. Christmas Stocking Workshop, Portadown, County Armagh, 9 December. The chance for parents and children to get creative together in an unforgettable Christmas experience. This class offers the chance to create a unique Christmas stocking, a personalised craft to treasure for years to come! This class is suitable for children 7 and above. All materials will be provided, Check website for availability.
  2. Santa’s Enchanted Magical tour, Benburb, County Tyrone, 4-17 December. Step back in time as you and your family embrace on an enchanted, magical tour of Benburb Priory House. The tour will include letter writing on old slates in the magnificent grand library, peeking into the Fairy Godmother’s, Santa’s and Mrs Claus’s bedroom. Story telling with the Fairy Godmother and creating some magic, making reindeer dust with Mrs Claus. Finishing the tour with family time with Santa and picking up your gift from the elves in the workshop. When outside, visit donkeys, take a stroll around the grounds, warm yourself by the fire and admire the beauty of Benburb Priory which will be all lit up for Christmas.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Gift a giant experience this Christmas

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Do something different and swap the bath bombs for baking this festive season

 

Are you tired of gifting the standard issue scent, socks and skincare gift sets? Do you want to find that truly memorable present that won’t be forgotten before the turkey leftovers are finished?  Well, this is the year to embrace change so why not step into Christmas and a giant experience in Northern Ireland.

In this fast-paced modern world, it can feel as if the festive season is gone within the blink of an eye. But science says exposing yourself to new experiences, sights and sounds rewards and stimulates your brain in a way repeated experiences don’t.

So, to make this festive season more fun and help make this wonderful time of the year feel like it is lasting longer, gift an adventure they’ll remember.

From making to baking you can create great memories in Northern Ireland while maybe even learning a new skill and supporting local talent in the process.

So, to ensure you squeeze every last drop of joy out of the holidays, Discover Northern Ireland has put together a selection of unique gift ideas.

County Fermanagh

  • Located on the banks of Lough Erne just outside Enniskillen lies a distillery focused on producing pure spirits with a sustainable and organic approach. With picturesque views of the lough on tap, The Boatyard Distillery is the first legal distillery in County Fermanagh in over 130 years and a tour of the premises could be the perfect gift for the gin lover in your life. Before the tour is finished, you’ll also get the chance to label and sign your own bottle of Boatyard Double Gin. This immersive experience offers the perfect chance to see, taste and embrace the spirit of Fermanagh.

County Antrim

  • Enjoy an intimate Jewellery Making Workshop at Gobbins Crafts in Islandmagee. Led by experienced goldsmith and designer, Heather McFadden, you’ll discover the enjoyment and satisfaction of making your own piece of jewellery. With each session limited to four people, Helen’s guiding hand and the relaxed and peaceful surroundings at Gobbins Craft means everyone will get the most from their experience. Each guest will leave having created their own set of stacking rings, knot rings or pendant.

County Tyrone

  • For the little chefs in your life, why not learn some new skills and take a cookery class together? At Wee Buns Cookery School near the Moy, the adult and child baking class provides the perfect shared experience as you and your little one learn how to make the most delicious sponge cakes, buttermilk scones and rocky roads. Over the course of this three-hour class that is suitable for children aged seven and up, each adult and child will make a Victoria Sponge Cake, Vanilla Buttercream to fill and decorate the cake and some buttermilk scones.

County Londonderry

  • For the adventurer in your life why not introduce them to Dragon SUPs with Far and Wild in Derry~Londonderry. Half Stand Up Paddle Board and half Dragon Boat, this 22ft long and 34-inch-wide board is built for speed. The four-man crew required to pilot the board can be made up of family friends or random companions for the day. Depending on other bookings you will either be racing along the River Foyle against at least one other group of four or against the clock on a pre-made iconic route. Don’t worry if you’ve never been on a paddle board before as Far and Wild’s experienced guide will put you through your paces before the racing begins.

County Armagh

  • For the budding photographer in your life, why not help them see Northern Ireland with a creative eye via Panoramic Ireland. These photography experiences and workshops are tailored to the participant’s skills and interests so whether you’re a beginner who wants to accelerate the learning process or a photographer who wants to find the best locations for that perfect shot, this is the tour for you. So, whether it’s learning to create a panorama at the coast, practicing long exposure photography with waterfalls or taking architectural images of some of Northern Ireland’s finest buildings, this tour could be the perfect gift.

County Down

  • The craft maker in your family is sure to love a trip to Mount Ida Pottery on the outskirts of Dromore. On this truly rewarding and relaxing experience you will receive a warm welcome from owner Trevor Woods who will encourage you to get in touch with your creative self as he shares his passion for pottery. No matter your level of experience, with Trevor’s patience and expert guidance you’ll be amazed at what can be achieved in just a few hours and you’ll be encouraged to inscribe your piece with your own signature before its glazed and posted to you.

For more amazing Northern Ireland experiences you can gift this festive season visit http://www.discovernorthernireland.com.

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Healthy Mind Coach Advises On How To Deal With Anxiety And Fear During The Festive Season

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As the holiday season approaches, many people find themselves grappling with anxiety and fear that can be exacerbated by the pressures and expectations associated with Christmas. 

This year, more than ever, it is important to acknowledge and address these emotions and seek support if needed.

The holiday season, traditionally a time of joy and togetherness, can also bring about a range of stressors that contribute to feelings of anxiety and fear. 

From financial strain to social obligations, the demands of the season can take a toll on mental wellbeing. This time of year adds an extra layer of uncertainty and anxiety for many, making it crucial to prioritise mental health during this time.

Sam Barr of Healthy Mind Coaching & Training in Belfast explained: “The festive season brings with it multiple stressors ranging from financial pressures to struggles with family dynamics. All of this tension causes anxiety and fear in the lead up to festivities.

“Unfortunately festive anxieties are common so at this time of the year it is essential to implement strategies to support and nurture your mental health. I hope that people feel ready to reach out and search for the support that they need at this time of year.”

Sam’s company, Healthy Mind Coaching offers a range of CBT and Positive Psychology based services for individuals and staff. The company offers a free 20-minute one-to-one introduction consultation as an opportunity to identify any mental or emotional wellbeing concerns and choose a path that works best for the client to find a resolution.

“Right now it is particularly important for individuals to reach out to mental health & wellbeing professionals to cope with the stressors that the festive season brings,” said Sam.

To help individuals navigate anxiety and fear during Christmas here are Sam’s top tips for the season.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

“It’s essential to recognise that it’s okay to feel anxious or fearful during the holidays. Simply acknowledging your emotions can be the first step towards managing them” said Sam.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

Sam said it’s important that people do not feel pressure to create a picture-perfect Christmas.

“It is okay to scale back on decorations, gifts, or social events if it reduces stress and anxiety” he added.

3. Plan And Budget

For many people the stresses and strains financially can cause havoc during the festive period.

Sam advised: “Create a realistic budget for holiday spending to avoid financial stress. Consider gifts or alternative celebrations that align with your budget.”

4. Self-Care

Prioritising self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises are an important part of any weekly routine said Sam, he explained: “These can help manage stress and improve overall wellbeing.”

5. Reach Out For Support

“Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or mental wellbeing professionals if you need support. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can be incredibly therapeutic” said Sam

6. Limit Social Media

Sam warned that the curated holiday experiences shared on social media can intensify feelings of inadequacy or fear of missing out. 

He said: “Consider taking a break from social media if it negatively affects your mental health.”

7. Maintain Healthy Boundaries

Maintaining healthy boundaries is one of the hardest things for people to do around the Christmas season but something Sam said is vital to emotional and mental wellbeing.

He explained: “It is fine to say no to social events or obligations that feel overwhelming. Prioritise your own mental and emotional wellbeing.”

8. Focus On Gratitude

Sam advised: “Take time to reflect on the positive aspects of the holiday season, such as spending time with loved ones or engaging in meaningful traditions.”

9. Professional Help

“If anxiety or fear becomes overwhelming, seek help from a mental health and wellbeing professional” said Sam, adding: “They can provide guidance, support, and strategies tailored to your specific needs.”

10. Community And Volunteering

Engaging with your local community can be an excellent way of boosting your mental and emotional wellbeing during difficult periods.

Sam said: “Consider giving back to your community through volunteering. Acts of kindness can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. 

“Remember that you are not alone in experiencing anxiety and fear during the holidays. It is important to prioritise your mental wellbeing and seek help when needed. 

“This Christmas season, let us all strive for a more compassionate and understanding approach to ourselves and others.”

Learn more about Healthy Mind Coaching and Training or book your free 20-min consultation by calling Sam today on 07906 869616 or go to healthymindcoaching.co.uk 

Northern Ireland’s Vulnerable at Risk: The Pressing Need for EV Charging Infrastructure

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Renewables experts Everun call for immediate action to enhance EV charging facilities for mobility vehicle users

Renewables experts Everun are calling for the Northern Ireland government to prioritise an upgrade in the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the country as soon as they return to business.

The company said not only does Stormont need to “get back to work” but that as soon as they do it is “vital” they address the critical shortfall in the EV charging infrastructure. 

According to sales and business development director at Everun, Ross Moffett, the gap in the infrastructure is having a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable members of society.

He said: “A significant proportion of hybrid or electric vehicles in Northern Ireland are mobility cars, mainly used by those most in need within our community.

“However, the acute shortage of adequate EV charging infrastructure is a major concern. This deficit disproportionately affects people with mobility vehicles and those in densely populated areas who may not have personal driveways or parking facilities.”

The lack of accessible charging points is forcing many mobility car users to depend on the petrol or diesel part of their hybrid vehicles.

Mr Moffett explained this, in turn, negated the purpose of making environmentally friendly cars available under the motability schemes. 

He added: “This situation is far from the ideal we strive for in the renewable energy sector and raises serious concerns about equitable access to sustainable transportation.”

According to Mr Moffett a “comprehensive and multifaceted strategy to address this challenge” is absolutely essential. 

He emphasised the need to expand beyond the current focus on rapid ultra-fast chargers. “For instance, hybrids are equipped with a type 2 charging which can take up to 11kw, meaning that the rapid chargers simply won’t work,” he said. 

“More importantly, the location of these chargers is crucial – they should be situated in areas that offer comfort and amenities, particularly for those with disabilities.”

Addressing the financial barrier is also critical, as Mr Moffett pointed out the cost can often be prohibitive for those without additional disposable income that they can invest in such utilities.

“With the cheapest electric vehicle models priced around £27,000, EVs remain out of reach for a significant portion of the population and the proportion of people who would be classed vulnerable that need to be able to access EV chargers is high, without any incentives or financial support available they remain in a situation where they may have a hybrid car but they are not able to use it in the way in which it was meant,” he said.

Everun are addressing these challenges as best they can by developing innovative solutions such as combining solar panels with battery storage in housing or commercial developments to speed up the development of an infrastructure. 

Mr Moffett explained: “This approach allows solar energy to charge the batteries, which in turn can charge cars – creating a self-sufficient, sustainable ecosystem.”

And while this may be a potential solution to some of the problem it does require investment from developers in the early stages of their projects.

More often than not Mr Moffett said bureaucratic hurdles are what impedes the progress of these solutions.

He also highlighted the potential of renewable energies in stabilising energy prices, akin to a fixed-rate mortgage. 

“This predictability is invaluable for businesses, allowing them to budget effectively and plan for the future,” he said.

Looking at the wider context of Northern Ireland’s renewable energy strategy, Mr Moffett urged the need to view EV infrastructure as part of a larger, interconnected energy system. 

“This system should seamlessly integrate various forms of renewable energy, from wind and solar to emerging technologies,” he said. 

“By doing so, we can ensure that our transition to electric vehicles is not only about replacing petrol and diesel cars but also about building a resilient, sustainable energy ecosystem.

“It is important that we adapt current policies and regulatory frameworks to support the rapid deployment of EV charging infrastructure. 

“Streamlining planning processes, providing incentives for the installation of charging points, and ensuring that these installations are accessible to all, regardless of where they live or their level of mobility, is crucial.”

For Everun engagement with all stakeholders including government, industry, local communities, and individual citizens is absolutely essential to Northern Ireland meeting its 2030 goals and creating an EV charging network that doesn’t discriminate. 

Mr Moffett added: “The establishment of a comprehensive, accessible EV charging network in Northern Ireland is not just about meeting our 2030 Climate Action Plan targets; it’s about fulfilling societal and economic needs.

“By addressing this gap, we ensure that the benefits of renewable energy extend to everyone, especially those who rely on it the most.”

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Stormont Hotel, County Antrim

Enjoy, a relaxing evening in this four-star hotel after exploring the delights of East Belfast. The imposing Stormont Buildings are just opposite, and you can wander in the estate’s expansive grounds or explore one of the world’s leadings tourist attractions at Titanic Belfast. Enjoy a B&B break with tickets to Titanic Belfast from £180 based on two sharing. Visit https://www.stormonthotelbelfast.com for more information.

The Manor House Country Hotel, County Fermanagh

Enjoy beautiful views of Lough Erne from this lovely four-star hotel. It’s offering a special Black Friday deal of £110 per room based on two people sharing from Sunday-Thursday.

This includes B&B and use of the swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub. This is a superb way to ease into the winter.

Visit https://www.manorhousecountryhotel.com/ for more information.

Glenann Cottage, County Antrim

This beautifully restored traditional whitewashed farmhouse offers breathtaking views of the village
of Cushendall and on a clear day Scotland and the Mull of Kintyre. Built early in the last century it’s the perfect location to explore the Glens and the Causeway Coast or simply snuggle up in front of the log fire and relax. It’s a quaint and cosy wonderful winter escape. It is dog friendly and you can avail of early check in and late check out. Its special winter warmer offer is £250 for two nights.
Sleeps five. Visit https://glenaan.ballycastle-accommodation.com/ for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit
https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 27 November- 3 December

1. Walking with the Snowman™, Hillsborough, County Down, 27 November- throughout December. Raymond Briggs’ beloved Snowman™ is brought to life in a trail around the stunning gardens – a perfect Christmas treat for families and fans of all ages. Can you find the 12 giant  Snowman™ sculptures, each beautifully hand painted by a different artist? Along your way, you may also discover a special garden play trail, a royal walled garden and meandering waterways along with plenty of space to explore and play. Finish off all that exploring with a warming hot chocolate and festive treat from the café. On select days, you can also see special screenings of the iconic animated film! Check website for details.

2. Ghosts of Winterly Manor , Belfast County Antrim, 2 December – 31 st January. W5 brings a brand-new experience for the winter months in this low-light walk-through experience that will see W5’s AMAZE space transformed into the haunted Winterly Manor. Encounters with a range of ghosts, ghouls, phantoms and restless spirits await. Enter if you dare! Admission is free with general admission to W5 although pre-booking is essential.

3. Roe Valley Speciality Market, Limavady, County Londonderry, 2 December. A must for those who love great artisan fresh produce, speciality products and quirky handmade gifts. A great day out with plenty of ideas and gifts for Christmas.

 

4. Christmas Fair at the Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 2-3 December. This year’s fair promises to be bigger and better than ever with live music, food and crafts stalls all helping to create a festive atmosphere you won’t forget! You can also see this historic National Trust site decorated in the style of Christmas past. Trees will be groaning with garlands, and the table laid for a feast of old.

5. Santa at Montalto House, Ballynahinch, County Down, 2-3 December. Prepare to meet Mr and Mrs Claus in the wonderful surroundings of Montalto House! Wrap up warm as the Head Elf takes you through the Enchanted Christmas Trail, before reaching the big house where the magic really begins! There’ll be Christmas letter writing, gingerbread decorating and reindeer food making. You can even meet Santa in the library and receive a special present. You can also cosy around the Christmas Tree and enjoy a memorable sing-along and story telling moment with Mrs Claus. There’ll also be refreshments for the adults. Check website for booking and availability.

6. Festive Wreath Making at Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 2-3 December. Enjoy a little festive DIY and make your own Christmas wreath to gift to someone special or hang on your own front door. With the help of local florist John Paul, you will be given all the materials you need to create something wonderful. After all that creativity you can enjoy a well-earned afternoon tea, with sandwiches, fabulous cakes, and bakes.

7. Share Village on Ice, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh, 27 November- throughout December. This indoor synthetic rink, which is wheelchair-friendly is open to all ages and abilities! Situated on the beautiful shores of Upper Lough Erne whether you're a budding skater or a dab hand don’t be afraid to join in the fun! The rink is set under a canopy twinkling lights. Recommended for
those aged 3+ Check website for details.

8. Todds Leap Magical Winter Wonderland, Ballygawley, County Tyrone, throughout December. Here you get the chance to visit the elves in the Post Office, write your letter and board Santa’s off-road sleigh. You can help the elves test the toys in the workshop and meet Mrs Claus in the Christmas cabin. Enjoy some treats before meeting the man in red in his gift laden grotto. Receive a golden coin and pick a gift. It’s sure to be super fun but watch out for the Grinch who might be sneaking about!

9. Victorian Santa Experience @ Whitehead Railway Museum, Whitehead, County Antrim, 2-3 December. Fancy a unique Santa experience? Well, here’s your chance to see Santa and get a ride in a Steam Train! Jump onboard the heritage carriage complete with Victorian style decorations. Our guides will then take you to the magical forest to find Father Christmas. Look out for hidden animals in the trees. You can enjoy a drink and a cookie with the option of mulled wine for the grownups. When you reach the platform, you can see the enormous snow globe and post your letter to Santa in the chimney of one of the steam engines!

10. Winter Wonderland 2023, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 1-3 December. Cancer Connect NI in partnership with the National Trust has created a wonderful festive experience at Castle Coole. Begin the adventure by boarding the Polar Express, a special road ‘train’ in the grounds of Enniskillen Model Primary where you will be greeted by Mrs Claus and her elves. Travel to the Castle where you will be invited to step back in time to meet Santa in his grotto. Mrs Claus will be whipping up some treats in her kitchen. Everyone will receive refreshments with stories and games as well as the chance to take pictures on Santa’s giant sleigh.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit
https://discovernorthernireland.com/

60 Businesses Unite To Fuel Young Entrepreneurs In Northern Ireland

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Over 60 Northern Irish businesses have joined forces in a major show of support for the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

Backing the enterprise education charity Young Enterprise, these companies are a crucial part of the newly launched Business Backers campaign. 

The initiative, responding to the success of previous programmes, is all about giving young people the tools and confidence they need to succeed in business, and it’s catching on fast across the country.

Young Enterprise’s aim is for all young people to have the chance to explore their entrepreneurial abilities whilst simultaneously developing additional skills that will serve them for both work and life.  

Speaking of the initiative Carol Fitzsimons MBE, chief executive of Young Enterprise said: “Business is pushing to further develop the Northern Ireland economy and needs a skilled future workforce. By becoming a Business Backer, these businesses support our mission to develop skills and publicly demonstrate their investment and belief in young people.”

By working in partnership with education and business bodies, Young Enterprise engages with over 90,000 young people every year.

Without the support of Young Enterprise’s Business Backers, this simply would not be able to happen.

The Business Backers campaign involves businesses pledging support to young entrepreneurs on a monthly basis.

Jordan Graham of Sugar Snap is one Young Enterprise Business Backers who has experienced the benefits of joining the scheme. 

He said: “Finding that philanthropic outlet would really suit anyone in the business world. Young Enterprise is a really good option for that because you can directly support young entrepreneurs in what they’re doing”

Jordan also believes that the Business Backer programme doesn’t just advantage the young people it involves. He said: “To teach entrepreneurship and enterprise skills is for the benefit of the whole business community.” 

For smaller businesses interested in becoming a Young Enterprise Backer there are three monthly packages to choose from, with all resulting in investment within the local community. 

Businesses can choose from the YE5, YE10 or YE25 programmes supporting either 5, 10 or 25 future entrepreneurs, depending on how much they are able to pledge each month. 

Larger companies hoping to make a big impact can choose from Big Business Packages. These include the YE Impact programme that allows businesses to support 50 entrepreneurs a month and influences the entrepreneurship programme run by Young Enterprise. It also allows businesses to have involvement in the running and judging of the Young Enterprise Big Market and celebrate young entrepreneurs at the Young Enterprise Awards 2024.

The YE ESG allows your business to support 100 future entrepreneurs each month. The impact of this investment will leave a lasting legacy for both the economy and for Northern Ireland’s young entrepreneurs. 

Rachel McMillan is another Young Enterprise Business Backer. Rachel’s Belfast based company, Clockwise Offices, has been volunteering with Young Enterprise for a number of years. 

She said: “I have to say that the confidence that comes through from the young people, the enthusiasm, it’s just so amazing to see, and the work that Young Enterprise does is so valuable for young people’s futures.”

Rachel also encourages any business thinking about becoming a Business Backer to go ahead and make the decision to do so. 

“It’s so important that companies get behind this campaign, to invest in young people’s futures because they will drive the economy forward in the future as well.”

To become a Young Enterprise Business Backer you can enquire or join at https://yeni.co.uk/business-backers/

Northern Ireland Must Forge Ahead with Climate Goals Despite UK Delays

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By Ross Moffett, Sales Director, Everun

As the world grapples with the urgency of climate change, Northern Ireland finds itself at a crossroads. With the UK government’s recent decision to push back environmental targets to 2050 and the absence of a sitting government in Northern Ireland, there’s a looming threat that our progress towards sustainable solutions might stall. 

However, as someone deeply entrenched in the renewable energy sector, I believe we must not only maintain our pace but accelerate our efforts to meet the 2030 climate action goals.

The challenge we face in Northern Ireland could be described as “dire”. At Everun we recognise the broader implications of our work, which encompasses everything from the development and management of wind farms and solar energy projects to providing EV charging and smart motor solutions to our clients. This commitment underpins our drive towards a greener, more resilient Northern Ireland.

Going forward towards 2030 we must ensure there is equitable access to renewable energy solutions that transcends the scope of individual sectors and squarely places the onus on collaborative governance. 

The lack of a sitting government since February 2022 has hindered our progress. The introduction of the Northern Ireland Protocol, part of a Brexit agreement designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland, led to the dissolution of The Assembly. This political impasse has significantly impacted our ability to develop and implement policies that support renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure.

Moreover, the recent rollback of key green targets by the UK government under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, while claiming to over-deliver on emissions reduction, sends mixed signals. While a pragmatic approach is necessary, it should not come at the cost of delaying essential environmental actions. In Northern Ireland, we are already lagging due to political and infrastructural challenges. Any further delays could be catastrophic.

Despite these hurdles, businesses in Northern Ireland are forging ahead. Many are investing in renewable technologies and more, recognising the long-term benefits and the necessity to stay competitive. This proactive stance is crucial. We cannot afford to be lulled into complacency or a false sense of security. The reality is that the cost of inaction is far greater than the expense of investing in sustainable solutions.

At Everun, we are committed to facilitating this transition. We are exploring innovative solutions with our clients to create self-sufficient, sustainable ecosystems. However, these efforts are often impeded by bureaucratic processes and a lack of governmental support.

It’s time for a collaborative effort. We need policies that encourage the development and adoption of renewable energy sources. Incentive schemes should be tailored to support not just domestic users but also the commercial and industrial sectors, which are crucial drivers of our economy. Additionally, there’s a need for an energy decarbonisation scheme that would encourage new generations of solar farms, wind turbines, and large battery storage.

As Northern Ireland stands at this critical juncture, the message is clear: we cannot afford to delay our progress towards the 2030 climate goals. We must act now to ensure a sustainable future, not just for our generation but for those to come. The time for decisive action and unwavering commitment is now.

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