Annual Awards Launched To Recognise Social Enterprise Excellence In Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards, in partnership with Go Succeed are back for 2024. The annual awards led by Social Enterprise Northern Ireland recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements and positive contributions of social enterprises across the region.

Applications are now open, and organisations are encouraged to enter before the deadline of midnight, Sunday 7th of July, to showcase their impact and key achievements in the last year. 

The prestigious Awards shines the light on the talented individuals, teams and organisations who are making a real difference, changing lives, building inclusive communities, and making a positive impact in society, all while making a profit through their respective business. With a wide range of Award categories, they offer the opportunity to highlight success, gain local recognition and enhance credibility.

2024 Award Categories: 

  • Best New Start Up 
  • Best Use of Social Media 
  • Community Wealth Building 
  • Consumer Facing Social Enterprise 
  • Cooperative  
  • Council  
  • Credit Union – Assets up to £25 million
  • Credit Union – Assets over £25 million
  • Emerging Leader  
  • Leader of the Year 
  • Outstanding Team Award 
  • Product Based Social Enterprise (New) 
  • Rural Social Enterprise of the Year 
  • Social Enterprise of the Year – up to 500k turnover
  • Social Enterprise of the Year – over 500k turnover
  • Social Impact Award  
  • Social Value Partnership  
  • Young Person    

The 2024 headline Awards sponsor Go Succeed, is the new go-to business support service that helps local entrepreneurs and businesses including Social Enterprises across Northern Ireland to start, grow and scale their businesses. Delivered by Northern Ireland’s eleven local councils, Go Succeed offers a huge range of support, from masterclasses, online workshops and help accessing grant funding to one-to-one mentoring, peer networking and beyond, all free of charge.

Mayor of Derry City & Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue said: “Go Succeed is delighted to partner with Social Enterprise NI for their annual sectoral Awards this year. All eleven Councils have worked in collaboration with SENI over many years to support the growth of the Social Enterprise sector and this new partnership further strengthens that relationship

“Through Go Succeed, we are privileged to work with a range of Social Enterprises to take their organisation to the next level and can’t wait to hear from others as we aim to help entrepreneurs and businesses across all sectors realise their ambitions.”

Colin Jess, Chief Executive of Social Enterprise Northern Ireland said: “Our annual awards are a fantastic celebration of the impact and innovation of the social enterprise sector in Northern Ireland. Submit your application now for the chance to recognise the incredible hard work and contributions of your team. Last year we had record-breaking entries and look forward to another successful year.”

“Entrants will complete applications using an online portal, allowing them to edit, amend and review their entry before submitting. Entry is free and open to all social enterprises operating in Northern Ireland.”

Economy Minister Deirdre Hargey said: “The innovation and vibrancy of the social enterprise sector is one that should excite and inspire us. It is a sector I am committed to and focused on.

“Indeed, I am pleased that my Department has recently awarded SENI a grant agreement to partner with us to deliver a renewed and enhanced Social Enterprise Work Programme, including an increase of more than 50% in grant funding for the current financial year, reflecting the value and importance of the sector. 

“The Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards are an important opportunity to showcase and recognise the quality of talent in this diverse sector and I encourage social enterprises across the north to submit an entry.”

Winner of Social Enterprise of the Year last year, John McLean OBE, Chief Executive of Radius Housing said: “Winning this key accolade provided invaluable recognition of our team’s hard work, not just locally but nationally. We are on an exciting journey to enhance our service offering and to be as sustainable as possible. I strongly encourage everyone to enter and maximise this opportunity to gain recognition and credibility.

Winners of the 2024 Awards will be announced at a gala ceremony on Friday 8th November compered by radio presenter and Social Enterprise Northern Ireland ambassador Cate Conway. Guests should expect an entertaining evening, filled with inspiration and excitement.

To enter the Awards, visit https://socialenterpriseni.awardsplatform.com/

Emerald Park Officially Opens Tír Na nÓg!

Emerald Park Officially Opens Tír Na nÓg!

Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters.  €22 million euro investment in Co. Meath.  Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts from around the world travel to Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Rollercoasters include 5 thrilling upside down experiences.

Today, Tuesday 21st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

Pictured is Managing Director of Emerald Park, Charles Coyle at Tír Na nÒg

Today, Tuesday 21st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

Causeway Coast prepares for take-off with return of the NI International Air Show

The largest air show on the island of Ireland will make an action-packed return to Causeway Coast and Glens this September with a spectacular aerobatic performance from Airbourne Pyrotechnics.

The NI International Air Show 2024, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, will welcome spectators to the seaside town of Portrush on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September for two days of aviation attractions and family fun.

To mark the return of the hugely popular event, it is moving to a new location along the coast starting from Ballyreagh Golf Course to West Bay in Portrush, offering visitors panoramic views and a chance to get prime viewing of the attractions in the sky.

The support of title sponsors, Spirit AeroSystems and Thales, leading names in the global aerospace engineering sector, marks an exciting development for the flagship event as thousands of visitors are expected to enjoy the ground and air displays.

The fast and furious Typhoon will appear on both days, demonstrating its rip-roaring power with a collection of jaw-dropping manoeuvres, along with the Battle of Britain Memorial trio of Spitfire, Lancaster and Hurricane performing their mesmerising flypasts.

Along the breathtaking coastal route, a wide range of captivating and family friendly activities will expand the entertainment offering to include an array of vintage aircraft, live music, trade stands, fun zone, artisan food markets, and arts and crafts stalls.

The exciting STEM Village sponsored by Matrix will make a welcomed return and bring together world-class local employers and education providers. These exhibits, located at Ballyreagh Golf Course, are aimed at inspiring young people to consider a STEM orientated career with interactive, fun and engaging displays and tasks.

Launching the NI International Air Show 2024, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am thrilled to see the return of our beloved Air Show once again, following a five-year absence.

“It is one of the biggest highlights of our tourism calendar, offering fantastic aerial displays and a host of family-friendly entertainment on the ground.

“I am particularly excited about the new location this year, which will provide visitors with the best possible viewing experience as they enjoy the spectacular aerial acrobatics.”

For more information visit www.airshowni.com or NI International Airshow on  Facebook or Twitter.

Rathlin Sound Festival – Packed programme unveiled for newly rebranded event

Council is delighted to announce the return of the newly rebranded Rathlin Sound Festival.

Due to take place between May 24th and June 2nd, the 10-day festival celebrates the people, culture and heritage across Ballycastle and Rathlin Island.

Council is collaborating with Ballycastle Community Development Group and the Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring you this hugely popular celebration.

Inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the Ballycastle mainland, the programme is packed full of activities on the dry-land and in the sea.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, talks, wild cookery demonstrations and a number of artisans from the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market.

The 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 is the music stage in Ballycastle on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May, which will host a variety of local music performers.

Some examples of what the festival offers include blessing of the boats, traditional coracle boat making, colourful kite display and a sand sculpture demonstration on Ballycastle Beach.

In anticipation of the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am delighted to see this illustrious festival return. It has long been one of the highlights of our calendar and I am looking forward to seeing many of the talented craftsmen, musicians and artisans that we have in our Borough.”

The full programme is available on the website by visiting www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/whats-on/rathlin-sound-festival for the latest updates, or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre on 028 2076 2024.

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

Enjoy a great day out in Glasgow with Stena Line

From incredible gothic architecture, contemporary art spaces, fascinating museums, bustling high streets and fantastic shopping centres, Glasgow has it all.

And, thanks to Stena Line, a day trip to Scotland’s biggest city has never been easier.

George Street with St George’s Tron Church of Scotland in downtown Glasgow, Scotland.

The Swedish-owned ferry company is inviting customers to leave their cars, and cares, at home and enjoy a hassle-free, coach trip to Scotland.

Crossing the Irish Sea in just two hours and 15 minutes, passengers can relax, unwind and enjoy the unrivalled style and comfort of Stena Superfast.

Your holiday starts the second you set foot onboard and those seeking instant relaxation are invited to take a dip in the Jacuzzi or enjoy some time out in the sauna at the Pure Nordic Spa, where day-trippers are also entitled to 20% off all treatments.

On arrival in Cairnryan, guests will travel via coach, to the heart of their destination and, when it’s time to leave, brought back to the ferry.

It really couldn’t be simpler, all that is left for you to do is to plan how to spend your day.  To help, Stena Line has compiled a list of family-friendly adventures you can enjoy in Glasgow.

Glasgow Cathedral

  • One of the most famous sites in Glasgow, this stunning 12th century gothic cathedral is not to be missed. Deep inside the Cathedral’s crypt you’ll find the tomb of Saint Mungo, the patron saint of the city and the man credited with founding the city in the sixth century.

George Square and the City’s Chambers

  • Named after King George III, the square was a muddy hollow until the 18th century when it began its transformation into what it is now – an insta worthy example of a stunning public space that’s not to be missed!

Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

  • Soak up some culture at Scotland’s oldest public museum – the Hunterian museum – with collections spanning arts, sciences and humanities. The entire collection of the Hunterian is recognised as an outstanding example of a collection of national significance and of fundamental benefit to the life and culture of Scotland.

Shop ‘til you drop in Glasgow City Centre

  • Discover Glasgow City Centre’s vibrant shopping – from the pedestrianised Buchanan Street featuring all the big names you’d expect, the stunning selection of jewellers and diamond merchants in Argyll Arcade and the Instagram-worthy canopy of Royal Exchange Square you’ll find all you want in Glasgow!

Stroll in the Botanic Gardens

  • Running alongside the River Kelvin, Glasgow’s botanic gardens are an ideal place to finish your day trip, take a walk or just sit on a bench and admire the beauty of over 9,000 different plants across 20 hectares of landscaped garden and tropical glasshouses.

Start your day with a great value meal from the Taste Restaurant and bag yourself a bargain in the Onboard Shop where you’ll also receive a £5 off shopping voucher if you spend at least £30.

Or simply relax and unwind in The Living Room or upgrade your trip and enjoy the luxury of the Stena Plus Lounge or the Hygge Recline Lounge.

Prices start from just £29 per adult and £25 per child for a return trip to Glasgow and take place on selected Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year.

For more information visit www.stenaline.co.uk/special-offers.

Spring Inspiration for Family Entertainment in Lisburn and Castlereagh.

Looking for some inspiration on how to entertain your family this Spring? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

The area of Lisburn & Castlereagh has an array of activities guaranteed to be enjoyed by all and create memories that will last a lifetime!

 

Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes:

Take the family on an unforgettable adventure and experience like no other at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes. Best known for their popular Alpaca Trekking, where you and your family will have the opportunity to get up-close and personal and enjoy scenic peaceful countryside treks alongside these incredible animals!

High Rise Indoor Adventure Park:

Get your hearts racing and bodies moving at High Rise Indoor Adventure Park! With 24 exhilarating indoor climbing challenges as well as a range of soft play and sensory rooms providing entertainment and enjoyment for families of all ages!

Find out more by visiting: www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com

 

Women In Tech Organisation TechFoundHer To Host International Film “Show Her The Money” At The MAC

 

Women in tech organisation TechFoundHer is hosting the showing of an international film highlighting the under investment in women entrepreneurs in Belfast this week.

Only 2% venture capital funding goes to women and the LA produced documentary Show Her The Money asks what entrepreneurs and people in positions of influence across the globe can do to change this. This is a movement for change as well as a movie.

TechFoundHer, set up by entrepreneur Mairin Murray, is a collective of women tech founders, advisors and champions who work together to raise awareness about the entrepreneurial opportunities and ecosystem across Ireland.

Show Her The Money will be screening at The MAC, Belfast on Wednesday May 22 at 5pm and will be part of their bigger AI Roadshow featuring a range of expert speakers from across the country.

The film, which is a powerful and uplifting film dedicated to shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of women entrepreneurs in their quest for funding, will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with film producer Catherine Gray and other founders and investors.

“TechFoundHer is on a mission to ensure women have the opportunity to fully contribute as tech entrepreneurs and innovators,” explained founder Mairin Murray. 

“Women are currently massively under-represented as the founders of tech companies. This has to change. Tech has no gender, and it’s time we come up with bold solutions to address the underinvestment in women’s startups.

“Show Her The Money is critical as a key moment to start our campaign for entrepreneur equity – this is a global movement.”

Directed by Ky Dickens, the film will also demystify the world of venture capital. It follows four visionary founders as they endure uphill battles to turn their ideas into reality and the women who invest in them. Despite their dedication and passion constantly being challenged, these women, with the financial support and mentorship of their angel investors, become even more determined, resourceful, and resilient, and the growth of their businesses is mind-blowing. Each business has the potential to become a ‘unicorn’… a billion-dollar business.

Show Her The Money will also showcase the rockstar women angel investors who support them and features Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Sharon Gless (better known as one half of Cagney and Lacey) and award-winning movie producer, author and founder of She Angel Investors, Catherine Gray. 

Speaking of the film Catherine said: “For the first time in history, women are starting their venture capital funds, and we are on a mission to educate women about why we need more women investors to support these funds.

“I just couldn’t bear the thought that these innovations would go unfulfilled. I do believe film and television can help change culture – thus the creation of this film. We want Show Her The Money to move the needle by telling the stories of these exceptional women. We’re on a 50 city tour and excited to be coming to Belfast and Dublin.

Speakers include producer and She Angels founder Catherine Gray, investor featured in the film, Wendy Ryan, Dr Lollie Mancey (innovator and entrepreneur), Tina Calder (media and marketing expert from Excalibur Press), Áine Denn (former co-founder at Altify, Jemma Simpson (founder DiverseTalent.ai), Alison McMurtrie (investor / founder Trrue & iDunn Consulting), Aislinn McBride (services CTO at Kainos), Lata Setty  (VC, How Women Invest Fund “The New Table”), Laura McClean (MD Synechron) and Mairin herself.

TechFoundHer AI Roadshow is supported and sponsored by Synechron, Belfast City Council, MCS Group, Queen’s University Belfast Business School, Kainos, Invest NI, Version 1, Bring It On, iDunn Consulting, Ormeau Baths, DogPatch Labs, PorterShed, Republic of Work, RDI Hub and Excalibur Press.

For information and to book tickets go to techfoundher.com

GET READY TO GO THE EXTRA MILE ALONG BELFAST’S WATERFRONT

~ Maritime Belfast Trust launches Go the EXTRA Mile, a public celebration of the Maritime Mile ~

Belfast’s Maritime Mile is set to host a year of events and activities as Go the EXTRA Mile officially launched on Saturday 18 May.

JC24

Delivered by Maritime Belfast Trust, the charity responsible for preserving and promoting Belfast’s maritime heritage, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to local people and visitors to discover more of the city’s historic waterfront and enjoy an extra mile welcome from local attractions, venues, restaurants and cafes along the way.

With over 30 events over the next 10 months, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to immerse yourself in history (stand in the bottom of the Thompson Dry Dock), get active (try some Irish dancing on the Titanic Slipways), be more sustainable (ditch the car and hire a Belfast Bike), meet new people (become a volunteer) or try something new (after hours at a museum).

People going the extra mile will also be able to take part in seasonal spectacles with events planned throughout the year. Aligned to the Belfast 2024 cultural programme free Boat Building workshops kick off the festivities in Titanic Hotel Belfast on Saturday 18 May, Sunday 26 and Monday 27 May from 11am – 2pm. These workshops are open to all, whatever your age or skill level. Delivered in partnership with PS2, the workshops are part of the Water Works project, Belfast largest Boat Building experiment.

Go the EXTRA Mile will include the return of the hugely successful Sundays on the Mile. Taking place on the last Sunday of the month between 12pm and 5pm, from May through to September, Sundays on the Mile will offer free musical performances across a mix of genres. Complementing their historic locations, artists will range from professional musicians to buskers, jazz musicians to string quartets, opera to traditional music. Stops include Hamilton Dock next to SS Nomadic, Sailortown, AC Hotel on City Quays and RiverBox at the Titanic Slipways. To kick off the programme, join us at 12 noon on Sunday (19 May) at SoundYard, located on Queen’s Quay close to the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina. To hear NI Opera’s lead soprano Mary McCabe and Roving Out a lively, foot-tapping, hand-clapping folk band.

Kerrie Sweeney, CEO of Maritime Belfast Trust said: “Developing and showcasing the Maritime Mile and all that it has to offer to both locals and visitors is important to help position Belfast as an attractive international destination.

“Our campaign will help attract an expected 1.5 million people to Belfast’s Maritime Mile between now and March 2025. With such a variety of events available, there will be something for everyone to help them go that extra mile and celebrate the fantastic location and talent we have on our doorstep and learn about the importance of preserving our rich heritage.”

For full details and to download your very own copy of the Go the Extra Mile guide visit maritime-mile.com. Make sure to tell us how you are going the Extra Mile and join the conversation on Maritime Mile Facebook and Instagram using #MaritimeMile.

Link to Guide – https://bit.ly/3K54fqA

Programme Announced for Armed Forces Day 2024

Reserve your calendars for Armed Forces Day 2024 – a sterling line up of free family fun planned with military precision.

Jordanstown Loughshore Park will transform into a vibrant hub of activity for all on Saturday 22 June from 10am until 5pm, honouring the men and women of our Armed Forces.

To get the day off to a flying start, over 600 military personnel will take part in a Drumhead Service at Whiteabbey War Memorial before parading to Jordanstown Loughshore Park, this colourful spectacle will include the Bands of HM Royal Marines and the Royal Irish Regiment.

A gun salute will take place at 11.45am in respect of this special occasion, before the Red Arrows dazzle the skies with a new nine aircraft aerobatic display as part of their 60th diamond season. Air displays by the RAF Tutor and the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster, will also form part of a mini-air show promising an exciting afternoon of aerial display.

Audiences will be transported back in time as they are entertained by music from the Victory Rollers and the Threemilewater Orchestra, whilst other highlights will include Military Demonstrations, Children’s Entertainment, STEM competitions, a Military Village and a number of market stalls. Tracked armoured vehicles the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank (MBT) and Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) are also part of an impressive programme of events.

Throughout the day, additional family fun is also planned for Hazelbank Park to complement the event.

A Beating Retreat by the Band of HM Royal Marines (Scotland) and the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment’ will conclude Armed Forces Day 2024, a military musical spectacular to end a day of celebration of our Armed Forces.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM commented,

“We are just six weeks away from this show-stopping event which will honour the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. We have lots planned for this FREE family fun event with a mini air-show headlined by the spectacular Red Arrows, I would encourage everyone to join in the fun and make a day of it.”

For more information on Armed Forces Day, including Parking, Programme, Accessibility and FAQs, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/armedforcesday

Add Royal Hillsborough to your list of mustvi sit places in NI!

Royal Hillsborough has an array of activities and attractions to be admired this Spring, from exploring the historic Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, to savouring treats in the many artisan cafés and bakeries before strolling around the lake of the picturesque Hillsborough Forest, every moment in this charming village is a treasure waiting to be discovered!

So why not experience the charm of Royal Hillsborough and create memories that will last a lifetime! 👑🌳

 

Explore more HERE