Randox Celebrates Grand National Sponsorship

Jim Masson
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Randox Celebrates Grand National Sponsorship

Grand National legends Ruby Walsh and Danny Mullins set the tone for the Randox Grand National 10‑Year Sponsorship Celebration

Celebrating ten years of proud sponsorship of the Randox Grand National, Ruby Walsh and Danny Mullins took centre stage at Randox Headquarters in Antrim to highlight Randox’s commitment to the World’s Greatest Steeplechase and to preventative health.

Randox are also a main sponsor at Downpatrick Racecourse having sponsored the Ulster National this year.

Randox, the UK’s largest diagnostic company, showcased its latest advances in prostate cancer detection, heart health, and early‑stage disease prevention.

With 50+ clinics across the UK and Ireland, Randox offers comprehensive health assessments that give individuals deeper insight into key health areas, highlight potential imbalances, and support smarter, longer‑term health choices.

Jockey Danny Mullins coming up through the ranks who is riding in the Grand National at Aintree with Spanish Harlem owned by Randox managing director Dr Peter FitzGerald is interviewed by 2-time Aintree winner Ruby Walsh, a former top jockey (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

A Decade of Distinction

Making the spotlight, Randox featured all winning trophies, marking its stamp to its history of the Grand National race.

For ten years, Randox has commissioned a new and exclusive trophy design for each Randox Grand National winner, ensuring that every champion lifts a truly one-of-a-kind piece of history.

This milestone year carries special significance, symbolising a partnership built on innovation, excellence and shared ambition.

The Randox trophy to be presented to the Grand National winner at Aintree 2026.

Ten of the trophies are made of spun silver and there are still three to go for future races. Each unique trophy runs into £60-80K and have rubies inset in the Randox crest and two have red enamel.

For this year’s Grand National Aintree trophy, Dr FitzGerald held a competition for the best design. Boodles was the first company who made the trophies and then other companies got involved, but it has gone back full circle to Boodles again to work on the 10th trophy.

It was a proud moment for Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox, who has been in business for almost 40 years, marking 10 years as title sponsor, and with his very own racehorse, Spanish Harlem, he will take to the racecourse aiming for glory in horse acing’s blue riband event.

Danny Mullins is set to partner Spanish Harlem in next Saturday’s Randox Grand National at Aintree for race sponsors Randox. Trained by his uncle Willie Mullins, Spanish Harlem is one of nine horses from the all-conquering Willie Mullins yards who are guaranteed a run with last year’s winner Nick Rockett.

Speaking to retired top jockey Ruby Walsh, he said: “I retired from racing in 2019. I had won a lot of races including two Grand Nationals on Pappilion in 2000 and Head Hunter in 2009.

“I raced at Downpatrick racecourse quite a bit over the years and its a great course. It’s a real jockey’s track and you have to use your brain when riding there.

Showing off the 20026 Grand National Cup are (l-r) jockey Danny Mullins, Dr Pater FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox with his wife Nuailin, and Ruby Walsh, two-time winner of the Grand National. (Photo courtesy of Randox).

“It’s good to see Irish racing in good health and there could be a bit more collaboration between Ireland and the UK. After all they are both small islands.

“Interestingly, I think that trainer Gordon Elliot is well positioned to dominate Irish racing and has to keep the pressure on this performance to stay up there, while Willie Mullins, on Elliot’s heels, has more scope with his rides in England.

“It was a great pleasure interviewing Danny Mullins today and I wish him all the best for the Grand National at Aintree.”

About Randox Health

Randox Health is dedicated to empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing. With over 40 years of health-testing experience, we deliver world-class diagnostic insights through innovative technology and a commitment to preventative health.

Since 2023, Randox Health has carried out more than 21 million tests and continues to expand its growing network of over 50 clinics across the UK and Ireland, with an ambitious plan to reach 147 locations by 2026.

 Randox Health is at the forefront of diagnostic innovation, powered by our cutting-edge Biochip Technology — a scientific breakthrough that turns complex diagnostics into simple, actionable insights.

Some of the Randox trophies presented to the Aintree Grand National Winners.

This novel technology analyses multiple biomarkers simultaneously from a single sample, providing a comprehensive picture of your health with unmatched speed.

The results from the Biochip Technology empower individuals to monitor and take responsibility for their own health.

 By offering comprehensive in-clinic health packages to a full range of convenient home test kits, Randox Health is making proactive healthcare more accessible than ever and helping to shape a healthier future for all.

Bowsie Says Saintfield Needs A Park and Ride

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Bowsie Says Saintfield Needs A Park and Ride

Former Saintfield Bus Depot to be sold off despite calls for a park and ride says DUP

The former Saintfield Bus Depot is to be sold off and the DUP is appealing for it to be made into parking.

Cllr Callum Bowsie (DUP Rowallane) said, has expressed his concern at the lack of parking space in Saintfield and said: “Saintfield needs more parking.

“Over the last few years the DUP has had meetings with Translink to get them to address this eyesore coming into Saintfield, which they finally agreed to do two years ago.

“The first step was dedicating a section of land for a proper bus lay-by, and this has been finalised. Step two is deciding the future of the main site.

“Translink have finished seeking expressions of interest for repurposing the site by the public sector. No expressions of interest were formally made and therefore the land is set to be sold off, most likely for housing.

The DUP’s Edwin Poots MLA, Rowallane Councillor Callum Bowsie and Michelle McIlveen MLA are calling for this unused site in Saintfield to be used for a park and ride facility for commuters to Belfast.

“We believe this is a rash decision and ignores our plea over recent years for any re-purposing of this land to put the needs of the existing community first.

“This has consistently been a call by the DUP for a park-and-ride facility to better manage commuter parking in the village.”

Edwin Poots MLA has written to Translink asking for a park and ride to be prioritised. He said: “Saintfield is a commuter town with congestion, parking pressure and no park and ride.

“Government transport policy talks about modal shift and integrated transport, yet a former transport site in Saintfield is being sold on the open market.

“It doesn’t make sense. Once this land is sold, the opportunity is gone forever. Decisions like this should be taken as part of long-term transport planning, not short-term land disposal.”

Michelle McIlveen MLA played a key role in addressing this abandoned site. She added: “While the repurposing of the old depot is welcome, it is vitally important that this strategic section of land is retained to address the chronic parking issue within Saintfield and not put on the open market without a thorough review into connectivity and sustainable travel along the A7.

“We are asking that this land be retained for a park and ride facility, creating potentially 40 car parking spaces on the Belfast Road at the main Belfast-bound bus stop.”

Drumaness Children Shine In Oliver Production

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Drumaness Children Shine In Oliver Production

Dan Rice Hall rings to the songs of Oliver Jnr!

Treading the boards were 46 children from Drumaness and surrounding areas who received a standing ovation at a production of Oliver! Jnr, held on Saturday 28th March at the Dan Rice Community Hall.

Organised by Drumaness & District Community Association and supported by Arts Council NI, The Housing Executive, and County Down Rural Community Network, the project helped children explore the creative arts and celebrate Drumaness’ rich heritage.

Principal cast members: back row l-r: Mr Brownlow (Kerry McAteer),Fagin (Alisha McKee): Widow Emily Brennan (Widow Corney), Mr Bumble ( Ria McIlmail, Bet (Isla Kilsall), and Bill Sykes (Jessica McKee). Front row: the Artful Dodger (Saul Brennan), Oliver Twist (Lochlan Kelsall), and Nancy (Erin Kelly). [Photos by Jim Masson/DownNews).

Amy Dixon, Secretary at Drumaness & District Community Association, said: “Oliver! Jnr was a true community effort, bringing together children from Drumaness and surrounding areas, their families, and our local senior citizens group.

“We’re so proud of everything the children have achieved, and we’ve watched their confidence grow as they’ve learned lines, songs and choreography.

“Thanks to our funders and to Mourne Stars – Speech, Drama and Performing Arts, for helping us bring this show to life.”

“Please sir, I’d like some more!” Oliver Twist played by Lochlan Kelsall was one of the stars in the Oliver Jnr production.

Erin Kelly, who played Nancy, added: “I love how kind and brave Nancy is. This is my first big role on stage and I’ve really enjoyed being part of the show and working with such a great cast.”

Parents of the young performers and Drumaness’ senior citizens group supported the show by designing and creating costumes.

The community also created a linen quilt to celebrate the village’s Victorian past and a heritage mural – featuring flax flower silhouettes, newspaper clippings and the village’s beloved swans.

The Housing Executive provided £1090 towards Oliver! Jnr. through its Good Relations Programme.

The cast in the grand finale of Oliver Jnr in the Dan Rice Hall in Drumaness.

Claire Crainey, HE Area Manager for South Down, said: “We’re delighted to support this production.

“It has given local children the opportunity to explore the arts and build long lasting friendships with each other and the wider community.

“Well done to everyone involved.”

Brennan’s Scoops Independent Retailer Of Year

Jim Masson
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Brennan’s Scoops Independent Retailer Of Year

Brennan’s of Loughinisland is named family neighbourhood Independent Retailer of the Year

Brennan’s SPAR in Loughinisland has taken home the award for Independent Retailer of the Year at the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards 2026.  

The awards, in partnership with Ulster Bank, were held on Wednesday 25 March at Belfast’s Crowne Plaza Hotel.  

Brennan’s SPAR Loughinisland was up against a competitive shortlist including Mamabobo Grocery, Nomadic Watches, Stairlift Solutions NI and Street Life.  

The rigorous judging process was carried out by a panel of 14 independent judges from the world of business, led by panel chairperson Clare Guinness of Belfast Chamber. 

Conor McKibbin, owner of Brennan’s SPAR, has traded in Loughinisland since 2008. The store completed a major refurbishment in December 2024, following a £2 million investment to expand the store.  

Brennans SPAR Loughinisland collects Independent retailer of the Year Award, sponsored by Retail NI, from Anna McErlean Vice President Retail NI, at the 2026 Belfast Telegraph Business Awards at the Crowne Plaza. Pictured are Gemma Kearney and Shauna Cartwright collecting the Independent Retailer of the Year Award, sponsored by Retail NI, from Anna McErlean of Retail NI. (Photo by Luke Jervis).

The refurbishment, which was supported by Ulster Bank, created a significant extension to the store, doubling the size of the fresh food offering and creating 10 new jobs for the local area.  

Gemma Kearney, who has been managing Brennan’s for the past 18 years, says the expansion has allowed them to deliver even more value for shoppers: “Our shoppers were in mind when considering the expansion, extending our fresh food and grocery ranges and introducing more deals and offers to bring additional value for shoppers. 

“In addition, we also expanded our services to bring more convenience to the area, with the Post Office available at our checkouts from 8am – 8pm, every day of the week, as well as welcoming pre-pay at pump in the four-pump fuel forecourt for even more convenience.”  

A Barista Bar Iced coffee machine was installed in the store, with Brennan’s being one of the first outlets in Northern Ireland to offer this product. The store produces and serves the popular Brennan’s Ice Cream, alongside Brennan’s Deli and a seating area for shoppers, offering breakfast, lunch and a range of shakes, sundaes and more to sit in or to go.   

Shoppers can also browse  the selection of baked goods from SPAR Bakery and Brennan’s Bakery. SPAR Enjoy Local and The Kitchen ranges, all produced locally, are also available throughout the store.  

Brennan’s store is a hub in the wider Loughinisland community, supporting local initiatives and community groups, including the local football team and primary school, alongside SPAR’s charity partner, Marie Curie and the local Cancer Fund for Children’s purpose-built therapeutic  centre, Daisy Lodge, located in Newcastle.  

Conor McKibbin, owner at Brennan’s SPAR, said: “We’re thrilled to have been named Independent Retailer of the Year at the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards. 

“It’s an honour to bring this award home, being in such a competitive category against other amazing independent businesses across the country.

“The award reflects the standard of our refurbished store; it was with huge pride that we reopened the store last year and it’s been fantastic to see the impact on our shoppers and community this past year.  

“We’re proud of the whole team here, their hard work and dedication has been recognised through this award and we look forward to many more successful years of our store here in Seaforde.”  

Richard Ash, Sales Director at Henderson Group which owns the SPAR brand in Northern Ireland, added: “We wish to extend a huge congratulations to Conor and the whole team at Brennan’s SPAR.

“It is an amazing achievement to be awarded Independent Retailer of the Year at the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards.

“This win reflects the success of this store, not only since being refurbished last year, but across the past 18 years, showing how the team have built the store into what it is today.

“They are a pillar in their local community and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this store, congratulations.”  

Brennan’s SPAR, Loughinisland is open Monday – Sunday, 6am – 11pm.

Follow facebook.com/BrennansSeafordeDundrum 

RELATED Down News POST:

Brennans SPAR Store Re-opens After £2Million Refurb

Truesdale Says Minister Must Address Rent Hike

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Truesdale Says Minister Must Address Rent Hike

Housing Minister Gordon Lyons must get spiralling rents under control in Newry Down and Mourne says Alliance Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale

Stormont’s Housing Minister must take urgent action to get spiralling rents under control for the sake of struggling families in Newry Mourne and Down Alliance Councillor Jill Truesdale has warned.

It comes as figures show that average private rents have grown to over £867 per month in Newry Mourne and Down District Council area representing an increase of more than 50% since 2020 and the third most expensive in the whole of Northern Ireland.

Cllr Jill Truesdale is concerned at the impact of rent hikes will have on renters in the Newry Mourne and Down area.

Councillor Truesdale said that growing rents and sky rocketing energy and other living costs risk leaving local families struggling to afford to eat or even facing the risk of homelessness.

She added: “There are 30,000 private renters in Newry Mourne and Down and many of those families have a daily battle to keep their head above water in the face of ever-increasing housing costs.

“Monthly rents have spiralled entirely out of control, and while this is leaving local renters having to cut back on food, sitting in cold homes or even facing the threat of ending up on the street, Gordon Lyons is doing nothing to help.

“Increasing the supply of available homes will ultimately make the biggest difference to monthly rents, but there are so many other levers that the Minister could also be pulling to make life easier for renters in the meantime.

“Steps to restrict the frequency of rent increases and stop inflation-busting hikes could be implemented relatively quickly and would make a massive difference to people in the district who are struggling to get by.

“The case for action was clear even before war in the Middle East had such a profound effect on energy bills, but the two have now combined to make a perfect cost of living storm for those in the private rented sector.

“The Minister cannot spend one more day sitting on his hands while renters in this district face such a crisis.”

Asthma Box Initiative Helps Sufferers

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Asthma Box Initiative Helps Sufferers

Asthma Box initiative helps emergency care for patients and reduces hospital admissions

The South Eastern HSC Trust has introduced a new ‘Asthma Box’ initiative to improve the emergency treatment and ongoing care of adults presenting with Asthma.

The initiative, developed in partnership with the Trust’s Respiratory Hub and Emergency Department, provides a standardised, all-in-one treatment kit for patients arriving at the Emergency Department with Asthma symptoms.

It is designed to ensure every patient receives safe, consistent, guideline-based care from the moment they are assessed, while also supporting better long-term management after discharge.

At the heart of the initiative is a shift towards more effective and safer treatment. Moving away from reliance on Short-Acting Beta Agonist (SABA) inhalers (blue inhalers), the Asthma Box supports the introduction of Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (MART) as the standard approach.

This change reflects updated clinical guidance aimed at improving Asthma control and reducing the risk of severe attacks and hospital admissions.

South Eastern Trust, Respiratory Ambulatory Speciality Doctor, Dr Arran Lundy, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Respiratory Medicine, Rosemary Thom and ED Pharmacist Alice Canning

The Asthma Box equips clinical staff with everything needed to assess, treat and make decisions on patient care quickly and effectively.

This includes medication, inhaler technique tools, patient education materials and a personalised Asthma Action Plan. It also ensures patients leave hospital with the support they need to manage their condition confidently.

The initiative forms part of the Trust’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for people living with Asthma, reducing avoidable hospital admissions and ensuring timely follow-up care through the Ambulatory Respiratory Hub.

South Eastern Trust, Respiratory Ambulatory Speciality Doctor, Dr Arran Lundy said: “The Adult Asthma Box was introduced in the Ulster Hospital Emergency Department in May 2025.

“A lot of people were using ‘blue’ inhalers, known as what we would call the SABA inhalers, as part of their Asthma management.

“Overuse of these has been linked to higher mortality rates.

“The new guidelines focus on better control of Asthma, to reduce the risk of patients needing hospital care. The Asthma Box allows us to provide that improved treatment when patients do attend the Emergency Department.

“The Adult Asthma Box contains a MART therapy inhaler, inhaler technique teaching tools, MART therapy patient information and a personalised Asthma Action Plan.

“When a patient leaves the Emergency Department, a two-week follow up appointment is arranged in our Respiratory Ambulatory Hub to ensure they are managing well and continue to improve.”

Dr Lundy added: “Our Emergency Department colleagues have been a real help in supporting the rollout of this initiative and ensuring the process works as smoothly as possible for both staff and patients.”

Public Invite For Newcastle Centre Consultation

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Public Invite For Newcastle Centre Consultation

Public Invited to First Consultation Event on Newcastle Centre Redevelopment

The public are invited to take part in a consultation for the redevelopment of the Newcastle Centre.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council is inviting residents, local businesses, community organisations, sports clubs and stakeholders to take part in the first stage of public consultation on the redevelopment of the Newcastle Centre.

This will allow the Council and their appointed design consultants to listen to and understand the perspectives of the local community before any preferred design option is developed. If interest is high, more engagement events may be put on to ensure all voices are heard.

There will be a public consultation evening on Monday 20th April from 6-8pm. Register your attendance in advance at the links below.

This event marks the beginning of a wider programme of engagement that will help inform the future direction of this important project.

Feedback gathered during this stage will help shape the next phase of work and identify the priorities that should guide the redevelopment.

Those attending will be invited to consider a number of key themes, including future facility needs, opportunities for community use, sport and leisure provision, and how the centre can best serve local needs in the years ahead.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell said: “I encourage everyone with an interest in this important project to attend the consultation event, learn more about the plans and share their views.

“This redevelopment has the potential to create a modern, high‑quality, multi‑purpose facility that enhances sport, recreation, health and wellbeing, and further strengthens Newcastle as a destination for both residents and visitors.”

This consultation is not part of the formal planning process but forms an important early stage in developing proposals that reflect local priorities.

Those wishing to attend the consultation event on 20th April can call in to the Newcastle Centre between 6pm and 8pm but are asked to register their attendance in advance by emailing:

[email protected].

Alternatively, telephone 0330 137 4026, or call into the Newcastle Centre during opening hours.

Downpatrick SERC Campus Excellence Awards

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Downpatrick SERC Campus Excellence Awards

Excellence Awards Celebrated at SERC’s Downpatrick Campus

Students, staff, friends and family gathered at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) to celebrate the best of the College community, at the annual Excellence Awards for Downpatrick & Newcastle Campuses (26 March).

Guests, including Councillor Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, were welcomed with a drinks reception, followed by a short film involving some of the student body celebrating excellence at SERC, before certificates and awards were presented in recognition of outstanding student achievements and success.

Awards were presented by Tommy Martin, Principal & Chief Executive, SERC and by Councillor Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry Mourne & Down District Council for the Apprentice of the Year Award, kindly sponsored by the Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership.

Re Gen Planters, a team of Animal Management students – Nikitta McMullan (Downpatrick), Grace Clingen (Ballynahinch), Rose O’Hare (Dromara), Emma Miskelly (Comber), Lauren Black (Castlewellan), Saoirse Carson (Killyleagh) and Tia Smyth (Killinchy) – won Excellence in Project Work Award (Downpatrick Campus). (Photos courtesy of SERC).

Following the presentations, a Vote of Thanks was given by Mark Brashier, SERC Student Governor.

Grainne McVeigh, SERC Governing Body and Master of Ceremonies for the evening said, “This evening, we celebrate the success of a number of our students in their courses. We are also highlighting and rewarding activity in areas such as entrepreneurship, and work with the Student’s Union. These are all important parts of college life, delivering real-life learning experiences and helping our students to develop as rounded individuals.  

See photos of the awards on Down News Facebook

“We are consistently shown to be the highest achieving college in Northern Ireland. In the last academic year, we saw a 91% achievement rate across the wide range of courses we deliver, at all levels.  

Ciaran Gilgunn (Downpatrick), Apprentice of the Year for the School of Engineering and Science, kindly sponsored by Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership and presented by Councillor Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

She added: “Beyond the qualifications, we have seen some great achievements this academic year.

“Four apprentices competed in Skillbuild and the WorldSkills UK Finals in November, with one bringing home a medal.

“ecently, we have also seen a record medal haul for our hospitality students at the IFEX food exhibition and success for performing arts students at the NicMac dance competition.

“And We have students accepted onto the Washington Ireland programme for young leaders, and a student film shown at the Cinemagic festival. 

Grainne concluded: “I really am proud to be associated with this College. I congratulate all nominees and award winners on your achievements.”  

SERC would like to thank everyone who made the evening so special, the Awards judging panel, our master of ceremonies and award presenters, the hospitality team and the student engineering team for the engraved trophies and students and staff who took part in the production of the celebration film.

Visit: www.serc.ac.uk

See photos of the awards on Down News Facebook

Muir Publishes Wildfire Plan For NI

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Muir Publishes Wildfire Plan For NI

Minister Muir publishes Wildfire Action Plan for Northern Ireland

An action plan to reduce the threat of wildfires in Northern Ireland has been published by the DAERA Minister Andrew Muir and it is particularly important for the management of fires in the Mournes and uplands in County Down.

The Wildfires Action Plan to 2030 was produced through a multi-agency approach as part of the Wildfires Strategic Framework to tackle the increasing threat of wildfires.

The action plan focuses on five main objectives of prevention, preparedness, response, recovery and enforcement. These strategic objectives are supported by 35 key areas of development which, taken together, should ensure regional capability to address the issue of wildfire is enhanced.

Partners from the Northern Ireland Strategic Wildfire Group and the Wildfire Stakeholder Forum will collectively work to deliver the action plan, bringing their own expertise and skills to wildfire risk management.

Commenting on the publication of the plan, Minister Andrew Muir said: “We have all witnessed the devastating consequences of wildfires in recent years, endangering homes, businesses and communities whilst also damaging vital upland habitats across Northern Ireland.

“The Wildfire Action Plan lays out how we will work together to reduce wildfire risk by implementing specific actions over the years ahead. Its implementation will help make our communities more resilient, by raising awareness of the dangers and providing the tools to adapt to and mitigate wildfire risks.

DAERA Minister Muir launches the Wildfire Action Plan for Northern Ireland. DAERA and partners including Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service will collectively work to deliver on its objectives.

“The action plan also includes measures to enhance preparedness and capability for response to wildfire incidents, as well as supporting work on climate change adaptation, biodiversity and peatland restoration.”

NIFRS Area Commander and Strategic Wildfire Lead, Ryan Thompson, said: “We are working closely with our partner agencies to address the impact of wildfires in our community.

“This wildfire action plan sets out a new approach to reduce their frequency and severity to help protect lives, the environment and make Northern Ireland safer.

“We are committed to the strong, unified approach behind the Wildfire Action Plan to ensure our Firefighters are ready to respond to incidents in their local areas.

“With spring beginning, we urge the public to follow our safety advice when visiting the countryside.”

As part of the implementation of the action plan, DAERA has recently appointed a consortium of international wildfire experts to deliver a range of wildfire mitigation and management work across Northern Ireland including wildfire management and response plans for Eastern Mournes, North Antrim Hills and Carn/Glenshane Pass. The project is being supported by the Carrier Bag Levy.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has introduced a wildfire action plan for Northern Ireland.

Led by global non-profit organisation Pau Costa Foundation, the team of experts will work to improve the wildfire resilience across the Eastern Mournes Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC), the Antrim Hills Special Protection Area (SPA), and Carn-Glenshane SAC.

The Wildfire Recovery Project will take at least three years to complete and will involve engagement with local landowners and a range of stakeholders including Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, Northern Ireland Water, Forest Service and other stakeholders and NGOs.

Minister Muir added: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of the internationally renowned Pau Costa Foundation to undertake the delivery of this Wildfire Recovery Project.

“The appointment of these experts is an important step towards better wildfire management, and I encourage local stakeholders and land managers to participate in the project and engage with the consultants during their initial information gathering processes.”

Based in Catalonia, the Pau Costa Foundation is dedicated to wildfire management, fire ecology, and landscape management.

The Foundation was established in memory of Pau Costa Alcubierre, a firefighter who died in a forest fire in 2009 and is committed to improving safety for those managing fires. 

Jordi Vendrell, General Director of Pau Costa Foundation said: “Northern Ireland is highly advanced in wildfire management and strategic planning, and the implementation of projects like this clearly demonstrates that leadership.

“Initiatives of this kind also create an important opportunity to connect knowledge and experience from different parts of Europe, strengthening collaboration and improving how we collectively prevent and respond to wildfire risk.”

***

The main outputs from Wildfire Recovery Project are, guidance, field research, stakeholder engagement and development and production of reports and studies including but not limited to the following:

  • Wildfire management and response plans for Eastern Mournes, North Antrim Hills and Carn / Glenshane Pass.
  • Wildfire spread modelling investigation across wet and dry heath.
  • Wildfire risk assessment across the Western Mournes and investigations into the causes and drivers of wildfires across the Mournes landscapes.

Drumaness Mills Settle For Draw With Villa

Jim Masson
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Drumaness Mills Settle For Draw With Villa

Abbey Villa pulled back 2 goals in the second half to draw with Drumaness Mills

The NAFL,

Premier League Match,

Venue: Meadowvale, 28 3 26,

Final Score: Drumaness Mills 2 2 Abbey Villa.

It’s getting to that nervous time again in the NAFL Premier League when teams drop off the cliff into the oblivion of the First League, and Drumaness is safe at the moment in fifth place but that could change in a whisker writes Jim Masson.

This Saturday Drumaness play away from home to Rosario YC on the Ormeau Road and while they are fifth bottom in the Premier League on 19 points, Rosario are 6th top on 23 points and have a secret weapon… Gary Keane, the Premier Leagues top goal scorer on 19 goals and he is playing in front of his home spectators and will no doubt be wanting to entertain them.

So this will be an important match for Drumaness for league survival, maybe less so for Rosario but pride will be at stake.

Callum Dougan in possession scored the opening goal for Drumaness Mills. (Photos-JimMasson/DownNews©).

But Drumaness also have 3 secret weapons by way of 3 co-managers, Conor Walsh, Sean McQuoid and Steven Rogan, all former team players, following the demise of Ciaran Brannigan who has moved on after a bad run of defeats. The trio are to manage the team until a permanent manager is in place.

Drumaness got off to a cracking start against Abbey Villa. Calum Dougan opened the scoring in the 28th minute from a cross from the right from Reece Doyle making no mistake with the golden opportunity.

The Mills continued their campaign against Villa and then it was James McGivern’s turn to add to the scoreboard with a shot from 20 yards to the corner of the net on 40 minutes. Villa did try and fight back but were well held by Drumaness until the half-time whistle.

The second half proved more of a test for Drumanes as Villa buckled up and Mark Cooling tried a volley on target at the Drumaness goal but keeper Marc Reid was on to it. Villa were pressing early to recover.

Jack Sharvin sends a ball up to the Drumaness forwards under pressure from a Abbey Villa defender.

On 55 minutes Casey Courtney scored a couple of yards from the goal for Villa and at that moment the game had a sharper edge to it.

Dougan gave a way a free kick on the edge of his box and Courtney send the kick just over the bar.

Adam Kearney who has recovered from his knee injuring in now back in the first team and was working well on the right left wing.

Then Villa’s Ross Arthurs worked his way through the Drumaness defence and hit the ball twice at goal but keeper Reid made two great reflex saves to stop the visitors equalising.

But Courtney struck again in the 61st minute when hit the ball in low from a throw. Villa had pulled back two goals and had eaten away the two goal lead that Drumaness had in the first half.

Drumaness raised their game and started to press more into the Villa half and Kearney hit a lovely volley that was inches too high over the top post.

Drumaness winger Adam Kearney looks on as Abbey Villa sub Jake Wilson clears the ball upfield.

Drumaness were having good runs at Villa and Kearney was definitely showing more of his old form. Jack Sharvin too positioned behind the front line was feeding excellent passes forward.

Callum Dougan hit a corker but again it just edged over the top bar. Drumaness were looking more resilient but they needed that rub of the green… a winning goal.

Then Dougan made a great pass to Doyle who in turn passed to Kearney who struck on target but keeper James Darlington made a pressure save putting the ball out for a corner.

Kearney came off and was subbed by Jack McMaster and before long he was fouled by Matthew Dempster 40 yards out and a free kick was given… another opportunity for Drumaness to take advantage and win the match but that too proved a damp squib.

Villa won a corner and midfielder Mark Cooling send it over the bar. Villa started to come back into the game and they won another corner as they pressured Drumaness. Sub Ross Murphy hit the ball well from inside the box but it was well held crucially by Drumaness keeper Marc Reid.

Drumaness looked a bit jaded as a side are coming up to the end of the season, but the energy is there, and they need to focus on crossing the line to remain in the Premier League for next season and build up again.

That will mean seizing the opportunities that arise for goals and not snatching under pressure.

Drumaness are a talented side, and the club is dynamic. They are currently making some great improvements to the facilities and training area and there will even be a safe walking circuit around the complex for the local community to benefit from. They have everything to look forward to in the 2026—27 season ahead.

So lads, let’s finish this one in style!

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