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

Due to take place between May 24^th and June 2^nd, 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.

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.

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 12^th 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 18^th 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.

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

 

~ 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.

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

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

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

12.05.24 – World ME Day – Belfast, Northern Ireland

By Joan McParland, founder, Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI

 

Today, the Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI community stood at the historic gates of Stormont united by our shared challenges and hope for a better future. 

Ten years ago, in 2014, we rallied here with a silent demonstration, collecting thousands of signatures that demanded the attention of our leaders – a call for the urgent establishment of specialist M.E. services in Northern Ireland. 

Our gathering today renews and intensifies this demand, underlining the critical need for immediate action and robust support for those living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.).

The outdated NICE Guidelines on ME/CFS, CG53, in place since 2007 and only revised in October 2021 to NG206, had recommended treatments like Graded Exercise Therapy (GET) which subsequent research and patient experiences proved to be harmful to patients.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), was used as a way to diminish patient experiences rather than help support them to mentally and emotionally manage and cope with living with a very real and physical illness. These changes marked a significant shift in understanding but have yet to translate into improved care for our patients in Northern Ireland, who remain in desperate need of professional and compassionate medical support.

Our call at Stormont today is charged with urgency. The absence of commissioned M.E. services in Northern Ireland has left our patients without the specialist care they critically require. 

Intermittently for well over a decade, the community relied on being able to pay for a private consultant from London, but this service was disrupted by the pandemic and unfortunately had not been able to be resumed, leaving a void filled only by despair. With the impending retirement of our metabolic/endocrinology consultant who showed a keen interest in M.E., the prospect of having no medical professionals familiar with this complex condition becomes a harsh reality.

This situation has placed an undue burden on general practitioners, many of whom lack the necessary training to effectively manage M.E. and are disadvantaged due to being unable to refer patients to a secondary care specialist or consultant. The disparity in disbelief, stigma of and lack of understanding around the illness among healthcare providers has led to a postcode lottery of care, where the quality of treatment depends heavily on the knowledge and belief of individual practitioners. This is a grave injustice to those afflicted.

What we urgently need is for M.E. to be recognised in Northern Ireland as a legitimate, severe medical condition by all healthcare professionals, organisations, and political figures. 

We demand the immediate commissioning of specialist M.E. services and a dedicated medical lead in Northern Ireland, supported by recurrent financial resources. Furthermore, the newly revised NICE Guidelines on ME/CFS NG206 which were endorsed by the Department of Health and circulated to healthcare professionals by the deputy chief medical officer of Northern Ireland in January 2022 must be implemented across all health and social care services immediately.

Education is crucial. M.E. must be included in the curriculum for medical students and part of ongoing training for all healthcare professionals. This will ensure that future generations of healthcare providers are better equipped to understand and treat M.E. and related conditions. Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI have created a 2-part educational programme for professionals who can earn three hours of CPD points by registering for and completing through the charity.

In fact Minister for Health Robin Swann recently highlighted the need for M.E. to be highlighted in the medical curriculum.

Awareness programs must be extended to dispel the stigma associated with these illnesses, promoting a more empathetic and informed approach within the medical community and beyond.

We call on our politicians to take decisive action. We need the government to facilitate the negotiation and establishment of M.E. specialist services and to ensure that the revised NICE guidelines are applied throughout our healthcare system. Accountability mechanisms should be put in place to ensure these services are not only promised but delivered.

Our political advocates need to speak up in the Northern Ireland Assembly and at Westminster to champion the cause of those living with M.E.. By fostering greater awareness and pushing for the implementation of essential services, they can play a crucial role in transforming the lives of thousands.

The path to achieving these changes has been fraught with administrative and logistical setbacks, as evidenced by the repeated failures to secure a dedicated M.E. consultant. These challenges underscore the systemic issues within our healthcare recruitment and retention strategies, which must be addressed as part of broader reforms.

As part of our ongoing advocacy, Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI has launched the DISCOVER ME campaign. This initiative includes a tour of our educational VR film, Discover ME, across 13 libraries across the country in partnership with Libraries NI, aiming to immerse viewers in the realities of living with M.E.. 

This powerful film, created by Professor Deepa Mann-Kler, has already begun to change hearts and minds, providing a visceral, empathetic insight into the daily lives of those affected by these conditions.

It is time for acknowledgement, action, and advocacy. Our community cannot afford any more delays in receiving the care and recognition it deserves. We have united here today to demand immediate change and to assert that we will accept nothing less.

Join us, support us, and help us forge a future where M.E., Fibromyalgia and other related conditions such as Long Covid are not just recognised but adequately addressed within our healthcare system. Together, we can ensure that no one is left to fight alone.

For more information about the campaign go to hope4mefibro.org 

As spring arrives, beckoning us outdoors, it’s the perfect time to embark on new adventures with your family.

Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, Lisburn & Castlereagh offers a tapestry of picturesque landscapes, charming trails, and exciting attractions waiting to be explored. From enchanting forests to captivating cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic region. Join us as we unravel the delights of Lisburn & Castlereagh and discover why it’s the ultimate destination for your family’s springtime escapades.

Embrace Nature and Views:

Spring is a time of renewal, and what better way to embrace its splendour than by immersing yourself in nature’s embrace? Lisburn & Castlereagh boasts an array of breath-taking parks, gardens, and green spaces where you can reconnect with the great outdoors. Explore the tranquil beauty of Hillsborough Forest, where towering trees and meandering trails invite you to wander and unwind. Marvel at the vibrant blooms of Wallace Park or lose yourself in the serenity of Moira Demesne. With its abundance of natural treasures, Lisburn & Castlereagh is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Discover Family-Friendly Attractions:

From thrilling adventures to educational experiences, Lisburn & Castlereagh offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions sure to delight visitors of all ages. Embark on a journey back in time at the Ulster Aviation Society (pre-booking required), where vintage aircraft and aviation artifacts await discovery. Get up close and personal with majestic alpacas at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes or test your skills at Northern Ireland’s only public Olympic-sized ice rink at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. With so many exciting options to choose from, every day in Lisburn & Castlereagh promises new adventures and lasting memories.

Indulge in Culinary Delights:

No family adventure is complete without delicious dining experiences to savour along the way. Lisburn & Castlereagh boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering an array of eateries and establishments to satisfy every palate. Treat your taste buds to the finest local cuisine at charming cafes, traditional pubs, and award-winning restaurants scattered throughout the region. Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food, exotic flavours, or indulgent sweet treats, you’ll find no shortage of culinary delights to tempt your senses in Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Immerse Yourself in Culture:

Beyond its natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, Lisburn & Castlereagh is a region steeped in rich history and culture waiting to be explored. Discover the fascinating heritage of iconic landmarks such as Hillsborough Castle, once home to royalty and political leaders. Explore the vibrant arts scene at local galleries and theatres or uncover hidden gems in quaint villages and market towns. Plus discover the rich tapestry of Northern Ireland’s heritage at the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum, where history comes alive through captivating exhibitions and interactive displays. With its diverse array of cultural offerings, Lisburn & Castlereagh invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

As spring unfolds its blossoms and the promise of warmer days ahead, there’s never been a better time to explore Lisburn & Castlereagh with your family. From captivating natural landscapes to exciting attractions and culinary delights, this charming region offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set out to discover the wonders of Lisburn & Castlereagh this spring. Your family’s next great adventure awaits!

Crescent Arts Centre is gearing up to host the 14^th edition of the Belfast Book Festival, which takes place from 6^th – 13^th June 2024.

In the iconic Victorian building on University Road, the festival promises an array of events and activities tailored for both adults and children. The festival will be a celebration of the finest in fiction, non-fiction, and spoken word.

Sophie Hayles, Chief Executive of Crescent Arts Centre and Belfast Book Festival expressed her excitement about bringing together enthusiasts of arts and literature once again. “We are thrilled to welcome visitors to the 14th edition of the Belfast Book Festival here at Crescent Arts Centre – come on in to our beautiful South Belfast home.

Highlights of the Festival

Highlights of the festival include an evening with Margaret Drabble, in conversation with Wendy Erskine reflecting on seven decades of writing; and Colm Tóibín discussing the highly anticipated sequel to Brooklyn, titled Long Island, with Festival Patron Lucy Caldwell.

Join a special live edition of RTÉ Sunday Miscellany with new writing from a line-up that includes Jan Carson and Glenn Patterson.

Other writers at the Festival include Sinéad Gleeson, Kevin Barry, Elaine Feeney, Martin Doyle, Paul Lynch, Louise Kennedy, Fergal Keane, Suzi Ronson, Nicola Tallant, AC Grayling, and Eimear Ryan.

Young Readers

There’s plenty for young people –  particularly on Saturday, June 8^th  – an audience with Jacqueline Wilson, readings with Martin Waddell accompanied by an exhibition celebrating his picture books, and launches of new works from Northern Ireland talents Ashling Lindsay and Colleen Larmour.

Poetry

The Festival’s poetry programme features celebrated US poet Marie Howe; Belfast’s Dawn Watson, Scott McKendry and Micheál McCann.

Other Activities

Alongside bookable events there’s a range of free/drop-in activities including film poem screenings, exhibitions, a ‘Little Library’, Room to Write, Storytellers Corner and a Poetry Jukebox.

To enhance accessibility to the Belfast Book Festival, organisers are adopting a “Pay What You Decide” model. Sophie Hayles elaborated on this initiative, stating, “For the third consecutive year, we’re implementing the ‘pay what you decide’ approach to foster broader engagement with the festival, especially among individuals who may not typically attend such events. Our aim is to inspire attendees to explore sessions outside their usual preferences, thus invigorating the arts sector and facilitating connections between writers, artists, and new audiences.”

Belfast Book Festival has pioneered panel-led curation in Ireland, with this year’s programming associates including Neil Hegarty and Mícheál McCann. Festival director Sophie Hayles commented, “Panel-led curation is now the norm in many countries: and at Belfast Book Festival we have witnessed how very well it works, providing access to a range of ideas, connections, and creative input”.

Belfast Book Festival runs at the Crescent Arts Centre from 6^th – 13^th June, and booking is now open at belfastbookfestival.com