Avove Ireland supports Castlewellan Peace Maze through Business in the Community initiative
Colleagues from Avove Ireland have volunteered at the Peace Maze in Castlewellan Forest Park, supporting maintenance and clean-up activities ahead of celebrations marking the landmark’s 25th anniversary.
The volunteering initiative was organised by Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), the region’s responsible business network, which brings together organisations committed to making a positive social, environmental and economic impact.
As a member of BITCNI, Avove Ireland joined fellow businesses in supporting the initiative and helping to maintain one of Northern Ireland’s most significant community landmarks.
During the volunteering day, the Avove Ireland team worked throughout the Peace Maze to help clear overgrown areas of brambles and ivy that had encroached on pathways and surrounding vegetation.
Through gardening, weeding and general maintenance activities, colleagues helped improve the appearance of the site.
Created as a symbol of peace, reconciliation and hope, the Peace Maze was developed through a shared vision involving communities from across Ireland.
Schoolchildren played a central role in shaping its design, helping create a lasting legacy that continues to attract visitors from across the region and beyond.
Manus O’Kane, Business Development Manager at Avove Ireland, said: “As a member of Business in the Community Northern Ireland, we are proud to support initiatives that create a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.
“The Peace Maze is a unique landmark that represents collaboration, shared purpose and community spirit, values that closely align with our own.
“It was a privilege for our team to contribute to its upkeep ahead of this important milestone, while working alongside fellow BITCNI members and local partners to support an asset that means so much to people across Northern Ireland.”
Lauren Cunningham, Community Engagement Manager at Business in the Community Northern Ireland, said: “At Business in the Community, we are proud to connect member organisations with meaningful volunteering opportunities that make a tangible difference in local communities.
“The Peace Maze is a powerful symbol of peace, reconciliation and shared identity, and it is fantastic to see colleagues from Avove Ireland investing their time to learn more about this space and to help preserve this important landmark ahead of its 25th anniversary celebrations.
“We would like to thank the team at Mourne, Gullion and Strangford Geopark for hosting the volunteers and sharing their expertise, and Avove Ireland for their enthusiasm in helping to maintain this unique site for future generations to enjoy.”
The initiative formed part of a wider programme led by County Down Rural Community Network, which has been engaging communities in conversations about the past, present and future significance of the Peace Maze as it approaches its anniversary celebrations.
