Get Hosed Down: National Car Wash Set To Take Place This Weekend For The Fire Fighters Charity

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Make a splash at your local fire station!

Washing the car is far from anybody’s favourite job, so take the hassle out of it and head down to your local fire station for the National Car Wash.

On Saturday, June 10, trainee firefighters from NIFRS will be on hand to make your car sparkle, with all donations received contributing towards The Fire Fighters Charity, a non-profit who provide support and rehabilitation to the fire and rescue community.

Hosted across the United Kingdom, Northern Irish locals can take their car to the NIFRS Learning & Development Centre, Boucher Crescent in the heart of Belfast to be washed, benefitting from the cleanliness of your vehicle and being for a great cause.

Firefighting is a life-threatening career that can often be dangerous, stressful and traumatic, sometimes leaving injured firefighters unable to work for months.

Dealing with life or death situations every day also takes its toll emotionally too, with a recent rise in mental health problems amongst the front-line force leading to increased attention in helping workers recuperate after a hard day’s work.

The Fire Fighters Charity has been supporting the fire services community for 75 years, starting by supporting bereaved families of firefighters killed during the Blitz before evolving into a modern-day service that provides life enhancing health and wellbeing support to the whole fire community.

The Fire Fighters Charity is here for every one of the UK’s both serving and retired members of fire and rescue staff as well as their families, a tailored package that no other organisation can provide.

Firmly established on the fire and rescue service calendar, the National Car Wash is the Charity’s largest national fundraising event of the year. 

As well as being a fun and popular fundraising event for the kids who get to check out the array of equipment, the Car Wash also gives firefighters the unique opportunity to share vital community safety advice with a large cross-section of their community. 

Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, Dr Jill Tolfrey, said: “The National Car Wash provides a vital source of income for the Charity, as well as being a fun and popular event. 

“It costs £8.5million a year to keep The Fire Fighters Charity running – and with no regular government funding, we rely completely on your donations and goodwill. 

“You can show your support to our firefighting heroes by visiting your local fire station on Saturday 10 June – and afterwards drive away safely, in a clean car!”

Chief Fire Officer said: “Monies raised through national fundraising initiatives provide a real boost to The Fire Fighters Charity. 

“We are delighted that so many of our fire stations are getting involved and would urge local people to come along and support the day. 

“Your valued donations will go towards helping thousands of men, women and children from the fire and rescue community during their times of need.”   

Applications For Boardroom Apprentice 2023 Are Open

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Applications for this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme are now open and available on the official Boardroom Apprentice website.

Open to those aged 16 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, this unique board learning and development programme is looking for a diverse range of Boardroom Apprentices to take a seat at one of the host boards and attend a suite of expertly led learning days throughout the year.

Founded by Eileen Mullan in 2017, the programme is now in its sixth year and has helped 277 individuals across Northern Ireland make their aspiration of sitting on a board a reality whilst helping to diversify boardrooms in the public and third sector.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge and understanding, experience and support. Over a twelve-month window Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector.

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Speaking of her experience, Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine who was placed with the Department of Health said: “Being a young, mixed race girl, I initially felt as if there was no room for me at the boardroom table. 

“I didn’t understand my potential and often questioned ‘what’s the point?’ or ‘what do I have to bring?’.

“What I learned was that anyone and everyone can serve on a board, it just takes confidence and believing in yourself. 

“If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

2022 Boardroom Apprentice, Craig Service, who was placed with the NI Police Fund said that the programme was a “humbling” experience.

He added: “Before I joined the programme, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it would be daunting and I suppose I doubted my capabilities to be involved in such a programme.

“I met and worked with wonderful people all of whom have their own views, opinions and experiences that I could learn from.

“Being on a board is one of the most humbling and authentic experiences I have ever had. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone.”

Boardroom Apprentice Gillian Orr, who was placed with Nexus, said her time on the course last year provided her with an opportunity to develop her soft skills: “Through the project work I developed greater interpersonal skills which were really helpful and mirrored the experience of being a new board member. 

“I also learned skills across different areas that I wouldn’t typically have insight to, such as finance analysis and governance, all of which were accessible at all levels and applicable in my host board setting.”

Boardroom Apprentice Clodagh Palmer, who was placed with Southern Regional College said the experience helped her in her personal development journey.

“Boardroom Apprentice enables people from different backgrounds to have an opportunity to be on a board” she said. 

“I wanted to be on a board for my personal development and to be able to give back to the community in which I live.

“Before applying I had no idea, to be honest, of what to expect and I thought it wouldn’t be as interesting as it was. I was wrong, as I soon found out the programme was far better than I ever expected.

“I learned so much about how boards work, the intricacies and about what I can bring to the board.

This year’s programme will run from September 1, 2023 – until August 31, 2024. Applications close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Strabane gets set for Summer Jamm celebrations

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It’s all happening in Strabane next month as the final plans are put in place for the latest celebration of the sensational Strabane Summer Jamm outdoor festival.

This year’s event takes place on June 17th with a fantastic line up of entertainment for all ages, from live music and arts and crafts to cute critters and BMX biking.

Launching the programme today, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said the festival would offer fun for all the family. “The programme for this year’s Summer Jamm is fantastic with a diverse range of fun activities for all ages. There will be the usual brilliant line up of live music to get everyone into the swing, as well as street animation, petting zoos, market stalls, circus skills and much more throughout the day.

“Strabane town centre will be absolutely buzzing with visitors and the festival provides a fantastic boost to the local economy. Summer Jamm brings out the very best in the town with its strong community spirit and vibrant cultural scene. It’s just the perfect day out for families and the perfect way to welcome in the summer.”

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BALLYGALLY CASTLE NAMED ONE OF WORLD’S TOP HOTELS BY TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE

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BALLYGALLY Castle has been named by Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel site, as one of the top 10% of hotels across the world.

The stunning property, located on the causeway coastal route, has been given the prestigious accolade as part of the 2023 Travellers’ Choice Awards which celebrates businesses that have consistently received great reviews from guests on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor globally.

Scott Weatherup, General Manager of Ballygally Castle said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been named as one of the top hotels worldwide. The fact that the winners are based on continued feedback and reviews from hotel guests from around the world makes this award extra special – as they have experienced first-hand the first-class accommodation and service we provide. Our guests are at the heart of everything we do and our teams work very hard to make sure each and every visitor has a memorable experience from the moment they step foot in the hotel.

As we approach the peak summer season, which is already set to be a very busy one for Ballygally Castle, this award is a fantastic boost for staff as it’s recognition that their hard work and dedication is appreciated. We’re proud to be the travellers’ choice.”

John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor said: “Earning a Travellers’ Choice Award demonstrates that Ballygally Castle has provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests. Cheers to another successful year!”

Going Beyond Expectations: Ciara Burch’s Journey With Boardroom Apprentice

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2022 Boardroom Apprentice Ciara Burch

By Zahra Baz

Ciara Burch had long recognised the impact of board involvement throughout her role as a Project Management Consultant at PwC.

The Belfast-native previously felt she lacked the experience and knowledge required to sit on a board before the opportunity to gain hands-on experience came along.

With a strong desire to better understand the societal needs of Northern Ireland, the 36-year-old was quick to apply for the Boardroom Apprentice back in 2022.

“I was attracted to apply for the opportunity because I wanted to learn how to be effective on a board, and gain a better understanding of the big societal questions that the public sector and charity boards face and deal with on a daily basis.

“In the past I’ve worked in organisations that have answered to boards so I’ve really seen the impact they can have on major decisions. 

“I really wanted to better understand how the board was part of the ecosystem when it came to these public organisations.”

In 2017, Eileen Mullan established the Boardroom Apprentice initiative. This programme offers a distinctive opportunity for individuals interested in serving on public or third sector board to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and gain practical experience in a safe environment before venturing into the actual boardroom.

For her Boardroom Apprentice experience Ciara was placed with Belfast based charity Housing Rights, which works to help people in Northern Ireland live in safe, suitable, and affordable homes.

“The application process was incredibly simple and straightforward, just make sure to be open and honest because that will make your experience all the more meaningful.

“It’s incredibly important to understand why you want to sit on a board and, if you have a particular host board in mind, why you want to be matched with that one specifically. Knowing and understanding your ‘why’ directly affects how you make decisions so you really do need to be clear on that.”

For Ciara, she applied to Boardroom Apprentice with one overarching goal: to learn something brand new.

“I actually didn’t have a particular type of board that I wanted to serve on when it came to my application. For me it was more about understanding the role of boards and how they impact the work done in Northern Ireland on a societal scale.

“However, I selected charity host boards because it was beyond the realms of my normal working life and was an entirely new experience for me.

“Being on the Housing Rights board was such a meaningful experience. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and it opened my eyes to the key role that organisations and charities play in our society, the challenges they face and the innovative way they deal with challenges.

“I feel I got a really in-depth experience because I was invited to attend board activities at every level and was encouraged to be part of all of the activities. It really let me see the key role that every member plays in the room as well as the importance of asking the awkward questions!”

Recognising the significance of offering formal training and assistance to aspiring board members, the Boardroom Apprentice programme places a strong emphasis on upskilling. Every participant is required to participate in a series of structured learning days, which have been designed to enrich their abilities and broaden their knowledge. By prioritising skill enhancement in this way, the programme ensures that each individual is well-equipped to take on board positions with both confidence and competence.

With her expectations exceeded, Ciara initially anticipated the Boardroom Apprentice as more of a stepping stone towards board service. It was after the programme began that she recognised the emphasis on personal development.

“The programme was much more than I expected” said Ciara, adding: “There was a greater focus on personal development than I assumed would be possible in a programme of this scale.

“For example, communication was a key skill that was heavily emphasised throughout the programme so we were given the tools to tailor our communication styles to our audience in order to communicate messages or to question potential assumptions.

“On top of that, the calibre of the guest lecturers was far beyond what I could have expected. This includes some of the key personalities in public life who spoke with enthusiasm for what the programme is aiming to achieve. They shared their personal stories and spoke candidly of the difficulties they face in life, and passionately about what drives them to want to do better – their ‘why’.”

Additionally, Ciara often found herself pleasantly surprised by unexpected elements of the programme that went beyond her initial expectations.

“I was genuinely taken aback by the strength of the community that the Boardroom Apprentice programme has built and how supportive of an environment it all is.

“I feel as though I could reach out to any of my fellow apprentices to gain support in my boardroom journey.”

For those considering applying to this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme, Ciara provides honest advice: “Take a deep breath and just do it. But make sure that you have the time to dedicate yourself, so that you can take advantage of everything that it offers.

“It’s opened up so many doors and opportunities for me, so I know the next round of apprentices will reap the same benefits. For example, I have a lot more confidence in asking questions – even the stupid ones because, more often than not, they’re the key ones that everyone’s thinking about.

“Don’t let your own prejudged ideas about yourself stop you from applying. Everyone has the right to be in the room and everyone is necessary for the conversations to happen.”

Applications for the 2023/2024 Boardroom Apprentice programme open on Monday June 5 and close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Celebrations as Mourne Gullion Strangford is Awarded Full UNESCO Global Geopark Status

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Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded internationally coveted UNESCO Geopark status.

The UNESCO Executive Board met in Paris on Wednesday 24 May and announced that Mourne Gullion Strangford had been welcomed into its network of global Geoparks, making it one of only 18 outstanding landscapes worldwide to be awarded full accreditation this year.

The landscape encompasses Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Mourne, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough and Lecale.

Mourne Gullion Strangford’s varied and beautiful landscape has been shaped over aeons by the collision of continents, the appearance and disappearance of oceans, through tumultuous volcanic events, and the rough treatment of ice ages. It has shaped a rich biodiversity and a vibrant cultural life, which the new Geopark will celebrate.

It is unique amongst UNESCO Global Geoparks as it tells ‘A Tale of Two Oceans’ across 400 million years of geological history. The geology of the area charts the closure of the ancient Iapetus Ocean, which brought together the island of Ireland’s two parts. It follows the island drifting with the continents through tropical latitudes and then welcomes the birth of the modern North Atlantic Ocean. Finally, the last glaciation carved this ancient landscape into the fantastic place we see today. No other UNESCO Global Geoparks has such a range of geological characteristics or can tell this story.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said he was delighted that Geopark status was confirmed. “The status of the Geopark is hard won; since 2012 the Council’s Geopark project, in partnership with the Geological Survey Northern Ireland, has worked on an intense engagement programme with residents and stakeholders,” he said. “As a result, everyone involved is delighted that Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG) status in recognition of this work and the extraordinary landscape it praises. It puts us on the world stage and firmly on people’s bucket lists of places they must see.”

A Geopark is a single unified geographical area, in this case, stretching from the waters of Strangford across the Mourne Mountains to the Ring of Gullion and beyond. A Geopark is a landscape that is managed holistically for the protection of its geology, the education of its people and visitors, and the sustainable development of its businesses. The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is about working together to make the most of our beautiful landscape through sustainable tourism, biodiversity improvements, geological education and sustainably managed outdoor recreation.

Talking about what makes Mourne Gullion Strangford unique, Chairperson Cllr Savage said, “The status of UNESCO Global Geopark demonstrates that our landscape is of global significance and is sustainably managed.

All the global geoparks have internationally important geology. But the community-led partnerships promoting an appreciation of natural and cultural heritage make our Geopark stand out.

“One of the fundamental Geopark principles is geological risk mitigation. One distinctive Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark project is the fantastic dune restoration project at Tyrella Beach near Downpatrick. This tourist hotspot was at serious risk of erosion due to the loss of its dunes until local volunteers and Geopark staff got together with homegrown charity, ‘True Harvest Seeds’, to gather, grow and plant native dune grasses to capture the blowing sand. Within just a month of starting this project, there is already visible dune regrowth, protecting not only the lovely smooth tourist beach of Tyrella itself but the low-lying land behind it too.”

Councillor Michael Savage continued, “Geoparks are, above all else, about local people; without their passion and enthusiasm, they cannot thrive or flourish. Much work is needed to ensure this award delivers what we need: a sustainable community and a local economy boosted through conservation, education, interpretation and sustainable and regenerative tourism. I have great confidence that the people and businesses of this district will work together to make the most of their beautiful landscape.”

Speaking after the award was announced, Laura Davies, Ambassador to UNESCO, added, “UNESCO Global Geoparks rightly enjoy strong international recognition.  Years of hard work, often behind the scenes, is recognised through impeccable independent accreditation.

“The new Mourne Gullion Geopark celebrates the story of our past, written into the land through geological processes; and focuses on the future of that landscape as it will be written by its people.

“The best UNESCO designations bring communities, sustainable development and conservation together in real, grass-roots partnerships. From small, local projects celebrating local geo-food, such as planting a community orchard in Newcastle, to major landscape-scale tasks like managing erosion on the peaks of the Mournes and the slopes of Slieve Gullion, the UK’s newest Geopark does this in spades.

“My warmest congratulations to all those involved in making it a reality!”

Marie Cowan, Director of the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, commented, “The tale of two oceans is clearly told in the unique geology of Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The variety of landscapes included in the Geopark designates the area as a global attraction for geological and landscape-based tourism and education. To be able to see landscapes formed over 400 million years within such a compact area is exceptional, and the variety and sheer beauty of this Geopark make it one of a kind.”

A special day of celebration took place on the 25 May on the shores of Carlingford Lough at Cranfield and a packed programme of events and activities will take place throughout the year across the Geopark.

Homecoming Queen Cara ready for Stendhal

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Perhaps the brightest musical light to ever emerge from the Roe Valley Region of the North-West, is finally making her debut at Stendhal Festival this summer.

Cara Dillon, described by Mojo magazine as having “quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice,” has seen major success in her outstanding career which has spanned almost 30 years.

She has seven critically acclaimed solo albums to her name, a bountiful haul of awards, including BBC Folk Awards, Meteor Music Awards and Hotpress awards and this July, Cara will perform for the first time at Stendhal Festival, an event that thrives in highlighting indigenous talent. In terms of the festival’s base around Limavady and the Roe Valley, there is no more an acclaimed home-grown performer than Cara Dillon.

Cara’s formative years were spent in Dungiven, where she says music was a way of life and a means for people to deal with the ongoing troubles present in 70’s and 80’s Ulster.

“Music was a big part of my life growing up in Dungiven and as a result all my friends played instruments or sang a wee bit, “she said.

“We were all taught fiddle or whistle in school and I took Irish dancing lessons as well. I suppose the culture became a really important totem of identity during the troubles when so many civil rights were being eroded or ignored.

In Dungiven I was swept up in the passion for the culture and I thank my lucky stars I was.”

Her Pathway to musical success began with her family, the youngest of six siblings, Cara says that music was a staple of her household.

“We were playing the records of the 80’s day and night in our house,” she recalled, “it was the days when we all watched Top of the Pops and one of my first records was the mini pops and Olivia Newton John. But at the same time my sister, Mary, was playing Paul Brady, Moving Hearts, Planxty and The Bothy Band amongst others, and we listened to Dolores Keane and Mary Black on the tape player on every holiday.

“From that initial love of music, and my sister teaching me a thing or two it was really the Fleadhs, the workshops and the competitions where I learned how to sing. I never had singing lessons but I was taught the songs I sang by the legendary Paddy Tunney amongst others.”

Cara would go on to excel at performing and she won the All-Ireland singing trophy at the Fleadh at 14 years old. This opened a lot of musical doors for a young Cara, who would go on to join a teenage folk band called Óige.

It was during this time that Cara first started to think to herself that music was a viable career choice.

“I realised after a tour in Germany with my teenage folk band Óige that one of the biggest parts of being a professional musician was definitely being able to thole the touring and I really enjoyed it and it got me thinking it would be a grand thing to do this for a living. I think I was about 16 or 17 years old,” she said.

From that epiphany at such a young age, Cara’s talent and determination took over and she carved out a fast-rising career but it was her win at the Meteor Music Prize for Best Irish Female in 2004 that made her understand just how successful she had become.

“Winning the Meteor Award for Best Irish Female in 2003 was so exciting and important for me at the time. I felt I had finally ‘arrived’ and that my hard work and all the sacrifices I made had been worth it as I had been given a stamp of approval in my own country and it meant the world to me. There have been other awards that have had more of an impact on my career, but that’s a different thing.”

Now living England, Cara says that she keeps incredibly close ties to home saying:

“I’m never off the phone to my family no matter where I am and I try to get home as often as I can in between gigs and my busy family home life. Sure, what’s it all about if you can’t get home?”

The next time Cara comes home will be for her hotly anticipated debut at Stendhal Festival on Saturday, July 8th a gig she says she will be incredibly proud to finally play.

“I’m so proud there is a fantastic festival just down the road from my homeplace. In England there are so many festivals and I really notice when I’m back home the lack of festivals here in the North. I love hearing from friends and family who is playing each year and love that is has grown from strength to strength. I can’t wait to finally see it all for myself.”

Despite this being her first Stendhal appearance Cara is no stranger to performing at Festivals all over the world.

“I love preforming at festivals. There’s usually a party-like atmosphere. I particularly enjoy the fact that I can do one uninterrupted set and it’s usually all my favourites, a bit of an indulgence.

“However, the downside to this is that it’s over quickly and you are off the stage before you realise what just happened, as an artist this can be quite frustrating when you are just getting warmed up to it all. Also, you’re rarely playing to your own crowd so there’s aways a desire to “win the crowd” which helps everyone perform that little bit better.

“I have spent the last 25 years doing a wide variety of festivals in the UK and Europe and it never fails to amaze me how it’s a great opportunity for people to come together and share not just a couple of nights of music but sometimes a whole week.

“It’s not just the music that is so great but the food, the crafts, the art and the way it brings people together in an almost tribal way. It’s a fantastic way to escape the everyday – work, suits and ties, school, chores. And more than anything it’s a great leveller, everyone can be free to be themselves under the sky or stars.”

Beyond Stendhal, Cara also has an exciting new project called “Coming Home” in the works. It features spoken word and singing and features the most personal lyrics she says she has ever written. “Coming home” will be showcased on a UK tour this autumn with a very special concert in the Grand Opera House in Belfast on October 18th.

Cara Dillon performs at Stendhal Festival this July 8th. For more information visit www.stendhalfestival.com.

Gun salute at upcoming Armed Forces Day event to mark The King’s birthday

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Preparations for Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne are well underway and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is delighted to announce there will be a historic 21 Gun Salute to mark the King’s official birthday.

Taking place at Sandy Bay Playing Fields in Larne from 10am on Saturday 17 June, Armed Forces Day 2023 will be an action-packed day filled with something for the whole family!

One of the highlights on the day will be the gun salute to mark this special occasion.  Gun salutes have existed for centuries with the firing of guns or firearms seen as a mark of respect on special occasions or as a military honour.

Other entertainment on the day will include a performance from the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment, a fantastic military village, interactive & static military displays, a parachute display by Silver Stars Royal Logistics Corp and a RAF display team featuring a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire and Hurricane.

There will also be an Army Air Corp Gazelle helicopter (static display), a RAF Police Military working dogs display, children’s entertainment, an Ulster Aviation Society static display and Science Technology Engineering Maths (STEM) competition

Taking to the stage will be talented musicians from The Music Yard in Larne, The Swingtime Starlets and righteous rock and soul brothers The Gold Tips.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, said: “I am so looking forward to Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne and particularly the 21 gun salute to mark the reigning Monarch’s birthday.  It will be a very special occasion this year as it’s the first time they will be fired for His Majesty King Charles III.

“This is an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors to play a part in the birthday celebrations, plus there will be so much more entertainment throughout the day for all ages. Come along, join in the fun and help us recognise the honourable service of the Armed Forces, both past and present.”

The event will begin with a parade to the venue and a Drumhead service, concluding that evening with a Beating Retreat finale.

Further information about Armed Forces Day, together with a travel plan for the event, can be found at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/AFD.

Family Favourite, Sea Bangor, Returns to the Seafront

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Bangor Seafront will be a hive of activity next month when the Sea Bangor Festival returns on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 June.

Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, with support from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) and Bangor Marina, thousands of visitors from the Borough and beyond are expected to descend on the seaside city over the two days in what will be one of Bangor’s busiest weekends of the year!

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, with Arabella who is looking forward to an exciting Sea Bangor weekend on 3-4 June. (Image: Simon Graham)

The popular maritime festival will open from 12noon until 6pm on both days, with a host of entertainment and activities for all the family, including an exciting visit by the Artemis eFoiler, HMS Penzance and HMS Raider!

The 12-metre Artemis eFoiler is the world’s first high-speed, fully electric foiling commercial vessel. Plans are in place for the vessel to operate a pilot service between Bangor and Belfast next year and this is an early opportunity for the public to see it in action on Bangor’s shores. On-the-water demonstrations are scheduled to take place at 1.30pm and 3.30pm on the Saturday and Sunday, with the best viewing opportunities available from the Seacliff Road.

Also on the water and available for viewing will be a Sandown-class Royal Navy minehunter vessel, HMS Penzance. After it docks at Eisenhower Pier, members of the public will have the opportunity to climb aboard for self-guided tours between 12noon and 4pm on the Saturday, providing a closer look at a vessel that is used to survey shipping routes and clear the way for military operations. Pre-booking is essential.

HMS Raider, a small patrol boat from Scotland, will be moored beside HMS Penzance. HMS Raider is one of two Archer-class patrol boats that form the Faslane Patrol Boat Squadron. Together with her sister ship, HMS Tracker, she provides reassurance and protection in and around HM Naval Base Clyde.

Keeping with the maritime theme, there will be lots more activities on the water too. E-Foiling demos will show how an electric powered surfboard on a hydrofoil wing can lift almost one metre out of the water. There will also be plenty of ‘have a go’ sessions as well, with free paddleboarding and kayaking taster sessions at Eisenhower Pier that can be pre-booked, plus the return of the popular rowing competition where local teams will compete for the top prize.

Back on dry land, Quay Street car park will take on a distinct holiday atmosphere with the return of the Urban Beach, funfair rides and outside bar. Families will be able to enjoy a seaside ‘rave’ and then relax before heading to the pier for some delicious food demos, hot food trucks, seasonal bar, and the popular on-water activities.

Helping everyone get around will be a free land train that will operate from the McKee Clock to Pickie Fun Park throughout the weekend. Make sure you don’t miss out on all the fun and visit Bangor Seafront on 3 and 4 June from 12noon to 6pm!

For more information, including details on how to book free ‘have a go’ sessions and self-guided tours on HMS Penzance, go to visitardsandnorthdown.com/seabangor.

ARMAGH’S ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR BACK AT THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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The hugely successful Armagh Craft Fair is back for the 11th year at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre with our largest number of fantastic artists and makers to date.

There is an exciting programme of creative activities throughout the day for visitors of all ages to enjoy, making this year’s Craft Fair a definite date for your diary!

The venue will transform into a vibrant hub of high-quality craft, art and design activity for the day. Visitors can shop at over 50 craft stalls from maker’s nationwide, experience traditional and contemporary craft demonstrations with some hands-on craft-making opportunities. You will find printed and woven textiles, jewellery, wood, fine art, leather, glass, soaps, candles, ceramics and artisan foods. Come early and start your day by taking part in a range of short creative workshops.

Children will enjoy getting creative at the FREE drop-in art sessions throughout the day making this fun event a must for all families.

Live musical performances during the Fair will keep you entertained as you shop for beautiful craft products, relax with a refreshing drink or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

We look forward to welcoming you to experience and explore what’s on offer.

This year’s Craft Fair will run from 10.30am to 4.30pm at The Market Place Theatre. Entrance is free, as are all craft demonstrations. For further information, bookings and to download the full programme go to www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre You can also follow developments on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) for the latest information and video previews.

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