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.

Eats and Beats Festival, Newcastle

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Eats and Beats Festival, Newcastle, Co Down, 2nd & 3rd September

The Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle is a celebration of food and music that brings together the best of both worlds. From delicious local cuisine to live performances by some of the hottest acts around, this festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves great food and great music.

As one of the largest festivals of its kind in the region, Eats and Beats draws thousands of visitors each year who come to sample the incredible food and soak up the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or a music lover in search of your next favourite band, this festival has something for everyone.

With its stunning coastal setting, Newcastle provides the perfect backdrop for this vibrant event. From the charming streets of the town to the rugged beauty of the nearby mountains, there’s no shortage of picturesque views to enjoy. And with an array of food vendors and musical acts on hand, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

So, if you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend that combines great food, fantastic music, and beautiful scenery, be sure to check out the Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle, County Down. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a full stomach!

https://www.facebook.com/VisitMourne/

https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/whats-on/eats-and-beats-festival-p795271

#Eats and Beats

NI Renewables Firm Everun Expand Into Scotland With New Partnership

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Northern Ireland firm Everun is set to partner with Scottish engineering firm MCE Scotland to bring its innovative Turntide technology across the water.

Last month renewables experts Everun launched the revolutionary new energy technology product to market that will help companies save on costs and help tackle climate change.

By partnering with MCE Scotland Everun will be introducing Turntide Motors to the HVAC industry across Scotland.

The Turtide Smart Motor System, developed in California, has been proven to help reduce energy consumption, emissions and costs for HVAC systems. 

The motors use a patented switched reluctance design that makes them up to 80% more energy-efficient than traditional motors. This means that they can help businesses and organisations significantly reduce their carbon footprint, while also saving money on energy bills.

Everun’s managing director, Michael Thompson said the partnership will allow MCE Scotland to offer Turntide Motors to HVAC installers and service providers across Scotland bringing a much-needed solution for businesses wanting to make their HVAC systems more sustainable and cost-effective.

He added: “In addition to our exclusive distribution rights to the technology we are thrilled to be collaborating with MCE Scotland as an installation partner to bring Turntide Motors to the HVAC industry in Scotland.

“This technology is a game-changer when it comes to energy efficiency, and we believe that it will have a significant impact on the Scottish market. We look forward to working with MCE Scotland to help businesses across Scotland achieve their sustainability goals.”

The Turntide system is cloud-connected, with smart software that is certified to be up to 60% more efficient than traditional motors and is already in use across the United States.

Turntide Motors have already been installed in hundreds of businesses around the world, including Amazon, JLL, and a variety of commercial buildings and factories. The motors have been shown to reduce energy consumption and costs by up to 50%, while also providing better performance and reliability than traditional motors.

Allan Espie, managing director of MCE Scotland said: “We are excited to be partnering with Everun Ltd to bring Turntide Motors to Scotland.

“We believe that this technology has the potential to transform the HVAC industry, and we are looking forward to working with Everun Ltd to help businesses across Scotland make their buildings more sustainable and cost-effective.”

Turntide’s electrical motor is based on the physics of electric generation using magnets and holds more than 100 patents for its intelligence-based system. Its three elements are the motor, the controller and the cloud that optimises every part of the energy produced, and precisely switches the current to the motor 20,000 times per second.

The partnership, facilitated by Invest Northern Ireland, marks an important step forward in the Scottish HVAC industry’s journey towards sustainability. By offering Turntide Motors, Everun Ltd and MCE Scotland are providing a solution that can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint, save money on energy bills, and improve the overall performance of their HVAC systems.

The partnership was officially announced at the Invest Northern Ireland stand at the All Energy Conference 2023 in Glasgow. Welcoming Everun’s success, Grainne McVeigh, Invest NI’s Director of Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering said: “Everun’s determination to bring this new technology to the RoI and now Scotland is supporting companies in these markets to achieve their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint. 

“We look forward to continuing to support Everun to achieve its ambitious growth strategy in the years ahead.” 

‘Knot to be missed’ – Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival programme revealed

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Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival has announced its eclectic festival programme, as it returns from May 26th – June 4th with 10 days of exciting seafaring fun. This year the festival is pleased to announce ‘The Phoenix’ tall ship will be part of the celebrations.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is collaborating with Ballycastle Community Development Group and Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring you this hugely popular celebration, with a packed programme of activities on both dry-land and at sea, inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the mainland in Ballycastle.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, dance displays, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, walks, talks, cookery demonstrations and lots of artisan produce at the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market, all of which celebrate the area’s rich local history, culture, music, and food.

The Phoenix tall ship is well known for its appearances in many films and television shows including Hornblower, Chronicles of Narnia and Voyage of Discovery. Visitors can experience the unique ship, with one-hour tours as well as day trips.

This is the first year The Phoenix will be part of the festival, so it’s a brilliant opportunity for locals and visitors to experience it.

The 10-day festival offers something for everyone, whether you want to find out more about traditional boat making, enjoy some family fun on the beach or have a go at paddle boarding.

To add to the expanding festival, a new addition this year will be on the pier activities to include music, dance and entertainment. Corracle boat making will also be a unique experience to find out more about these tradition vessels.

In other programme highlights, look out for the blessing of the boats, traditional rope making, maritime themed children’s crafts, colourful kite display, sand sculpture demonstration and a children’s sandcastle competition on Ballycastle Beach.

Looking ahead to the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ivor Wallace, said: “Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival is about inspiring a passion for the sea, as well as celebrating Ballycastle and Rathlin Island’s shared nautical heritage. It is a fantastic showcase of the area’s unrivalled tourism offering and it brings a unique vibrancy which has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors since the festival began 10 years ago.

“I know it is highly anticipated every year as a highlight of our Borough’s events calendar, and Council is very grateful to the local community volunteers who play a crucial role in its success.”

The full programme is available on the festival’s website so please visit www.rathlinsoundmaritimefestival.com for the latest updates or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre by ringing 028 2076 2024. Trips on The Phoenix must be booked in advance. Details for bookings can be found via the festival’s website.

Please note, details are subject to change due to tides and weather conditions, so visitors are advised to follow the Festival’s Facebook (@RathlinSoundMaritimeFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) channels for the most up-to-date announcements.

PAC Group Announce Sponsorship Of Northern Ireland Cricket Umpires Kits

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Belfast engineering firm PAC Group have announced a sponsorship deal for the next three seasons for the Northern Ireland Association of Cricket Umpires & Scorers (NIACUS).

The sponsorship comes on the back of the eight-division company’s existing support for Carrickfergus Cricket Club.

Darren Leslie, business development director at PAC Group, said the company is delighted to show their support for the sport.

He added: “PAC Group already supports ladies rugby, children’s football and a local cricket club. 

“This sponsorship of the Northern Ireland Association of Cricket Umpires is just another way we can show our support for grassroots sport across the country.”

The sponsorship will see 75 umpires across Northern Ireland attend hundreds of games per season for the next three years with PAC branded kits.

Colin McClean, chairman of NIACUS, said PAC Group’s support was a welcome addition to their organisation.

He said: “We are delighted that PAC Group have shown their support for cricket across Northern Ireland by providing kit for our umpires.

“The kits have debuted well following the start of the season last month.”

The kit includes a new on-field t-shirt, jacket and long-sleeve jersey.

Umpire Gareth Morrison said: “Being an umpire means we have to be part of setting a high standard on the pitch. This new kit allows us to be smart, visible and support a fantastic local company in the process.”

Brian Alexander, an employee at PAC Group and also an umpire with NIACUS said he was delighted to see his employer support the sport he loves.

He said: “PAC Group has a great ethos of supporting local sport and I was absolutely delighted to be able to facilitate a partnership between them and NIACUS.

“I will be proud to walk onto the pitch as an umpire but delighted to be supporting my employer at the same time.”

Jacqueline shares her pick of the week!

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Antrim

Glass making workshop,Island Arts Centre, Lisburn. Glass artist Keith Sheppard will teach you various design techniques to get you started, demonstrate the tools required for glass cutting, and show you how to work safely and handle glass with confidence.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Menopause the Musical 2, Marketpalce Theatre. Starring Mary Byrne (X Factor), Jessica Martin (Copycats), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty) and Susie Fenwick (West End Star).

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Tale of a Frozen Heart, W5. Join W5 for a very special cosplay theatre event as we transport you on a frozen quest filled with friendship, betrayal and sisterly love.

Find out more HERE

Down

Portico of Ards are delighted to welcome international organist and Bach specialist Anne Page to Portico.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Earth Yoga in the Heart of the Cave, Florencecourt, Enniskillen.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

The Ulster Orchestra and Dr Leah Broad at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Lore and Gathered Voices, Ranfurly on the Hill Dungannon. The band have teamed up with Dungannon’s very own Gathered Voices for a unique collaboration at Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre on Friday 19th May.

Find out more HERE

 

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Haslem Hotel, Lisburn, County Down

Take advantage of the bank holiday weekend approaching and escape to Haslem with a fabulous overnight stay. The Haslem Hotel is offering a Dine & Stay package from £69pps including a fabulous two-course meal. Whether you’re planning a shopping trip or need somewhere to stay while visiting friends, Haslem is the perfect base right in the heart of Lisburn Square. Visit https://www.haslemhotel.com/ for more information.

The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine, County Londonderry

The Lodge Hotel is offering a two-night stay in a double or twin room, including a full cooked breakfast each morning, and a £15pp dining credit each evening from £145pps. Whether you’re arranging a bank holiday escape, an anniversary break, birthday treat or simply wanting to relax with your other half or bestie, this two-night break is just the ticket. This offer is available Sunday to Thursday. Visit https://www.thelodgehotel.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 22nd – 28th May.

  1. Bluegrass Omagh, Omagh, County Tyrone, 26 – 28 May. Time to dust off your Stetson and get your dancin’ shoes on. The Bluegrass festival returns to Ulster American Folk Park. Enjoy a stellar weekend with world-class musicians from around the globe. This will be a toe-tappin’, knee-slappin’ weekend to remember!
  2. Portrush Tasty, Portrush, County Antrim, 26 May. This evening foodie tour is the perfect opener for your weekend. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to Portrush’s only craft brewery for a private tasting, a delicious main course on Main Street, and finish off with a delicious cocktail. Guided by local food & drink ambassador Wendy, you will be introduced to the unique people, flavours and character this coastal gem has to offer.
  3. Orchard/Cider Experience, Portadown, County Armagh, 27 May. Enjoy a fully immersive orchard/cider experience in the company of the McKeever Family. Walk through their various orchard plantations and witness first-hand the beautiful apple blossom. Learn about the craft cider and apple juice production from start to finish, enjoy tastings of their award-winning products and relax in their new glass fronted Bramley Barn with a hot cuppa while you tuck into granny’s traditional griddle breads.
  4. Poems and Paintings Creative Writing and Art Retreat, Stewartstown, County Tyrone, 27 -28 May. Join a weekend of creative writing, painting, music, good food and fun with bestselling novelist Emma Heatherington and renowned Irish artist Jim McKee in the spectacular surroundings of Rosehill House. In this two-day visit to the heart of Mid Ulster, you will be immersed in creativity as you learn from experts all you want to know about painting masterpieces and conjuring up magnificent stories and poems, as well as tips on how to get published.
  5. Tracing Your Mourne Roots Exhibition, Kilkeel, County Down, see website for opening times. Overlooking Kilkeel’s busy and picturesque fishing port, the Nautilus Centre is the ideal place to become a time traveller and explore your heritage. The exhibition aims to showcase the history and heritage of Kilkeel and the wider Mourne area from 1800 to present day. The project is also currently gathering information on local graveyards within Kilkeel to create an online database which will allow you the chance to access the information to find out if your relatives are buried in the area.
  6. May Bank Holiday Weekend at HMS Caroline, Belfast, County Antrim, 27 – 29 May. There is no better way to spend the May Bank Holiday weekend than exploring the HMS Caroline. Bring the children to HMS Caroline to enjoy specially themed activities all included with HMS Caroline tour tickets. Drop-in, family-led activities including crafts, dress ups, puzzles, games, and colouring-in activities are also available in the Learning Room onboard the ship.
  7. Mundy in Concert, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 27 May. Seamus Heaney Home Place in Bellaghy is delighted to welcome Mundy to the Helicon for what promises to be an unmissable performance. Mundy’s music has allowed him to travel the world supporting some of the greats; Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Emmylou Harris, R.E.M, Oasis and The Pogues to name but a few. Mundy was invited to perform for perhaps his most prestigious audience to date, in the White House for President Barack Obama as part of their St. Patricks Day celebrations. Don’t miss out on this special performance!
  8. Creels in the Cave, Tullyholvin Lower, County Fermanagh, 26 May- 18 August. Visit this popular local spot to unwind and enjoy a pint. The Linnet Inn is the perfect setting for those interested in learning a little more about the ancient art of Creel Making and Basket Weaving. Dessie, owner of the Linnet Inn, part-time undertaker and full-time shopkeeper will share stories from his community and the links it has with the extensive cave network that lies beneath the pub.
  9. Spring Mindfulness at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 22-28 May. Through the hustle and bustle of daily life, there are multiple pockets of peace to be found in places all around us. This spring, come and experience the garden by having a go at practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness can be practised anywhere, at any time of day. Created as a form of meditation, it asks you to take notice of each of the five senses in your body, including your own breathing, bringing your complete attention into the current moment.
  10. Armagh Craft Fair, Armagh, County Armagh, 27 May. Come celebrate contemporary and traditional craft at the Armagh Craft Fair. The hugely successful Armagh Craft Fair is back for the 11th year at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre with the largest number of fantastic artists and makers to date.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

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