Oesophageal Cancer Survivor Shares Story

Staff Reporter
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Oesophageal Cancer Survivor Shares Story

An Oesophageal Cancer Survivor from Holywood, County Down, shares her story to help others

Oesophageal Cancer is often not widely talked about, yet it remains one of the cancers often associated with poorer outcomes.

Increasing awareness of the signs and symptoms is crucial to improving early diagnosis and expanding treatment options for patients.

73 year old Lesley McDowell who lives in Holywood, County Down, was diagnosed with Oesophageal Cancer at the Ulster Hospital in March 2024 and went on to receive her treatment at Belfast City Hospital.

As part of Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month this February, Lesley is sharing her cancer journey highlighting this often overlooked cancer and encouraging people to recognise warning signs early and seek medical advice promptly.

Lesley McDowell was lucky in addressing the symptoms of oesophageal cancer early. (Photos courtesy of the SEHSCT).

Lesley said: “I have had a condition called Achalasia for years. My oesophagus was basically paralysed, so I always had to drink a lot of fluid and rely on gravity to take food down. Because of that, when symptoms first appeared, I was not particularly alarmed.

“But I would say to anyone with a history of Achalasia, or any oesophageal problems, be aware. For me, the significant symptom was bringing up blood. It happened twice. The first time I was told if it did not happen again not to worry, but if it did, to get checked.”

When it happened a second time, Lesley collapsed at home and was advised by her GP to attend the Emergency Department.

“I went to the Emergency Department at the Ulster Hospital thinking I would be sent home. I was admitted to the Gastroenterology ward and very quickly put on an urgent pathway for investigations.  In March 2024 they discovered I had a malignant tumour.

“From then, everything moved quickly. I had radiotherapy, some chemotherapy and then major surgery in September 2024 where my oesophagus was removed.

“It was a massive operation, but I had tremendous treatment and I have been very blessed that it was successful. So far, I am cancer-free.”

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, but Lesley reflects on her experience with remarkable positivity.

“It was difficult, of course. But I always felt positive. I knew it had been caught early and that made a huge difference. The staff were incredibly supportive and I always felt I was in the right place receiving the right treatment.”

Lesley is now raising awareness of a cancer many people know little about.

South Eastern Trust, Macmillan Upper GI Clinical Nurse Specialist, Joanne Flynn.

“Oesophageal Cancer is not talked about very much. It is one of the less survivable cancers, but treatment and surgery have advanced so much in recent years.

“If people who have never had oesophageal problems start noticing difficulty swallowing, they should see their GP. And if you have had a history like mine, any change, especially bringing up blood, get checked immediately. If it is caught early, it can be treated. I am proof of that.”

South Eastern Trust, Macmillan Upper GI Clinical Nurse Specialist, Joanne Flynn emphasised the importance of recognising symptoms early.

She said: “Oesophageal cancer affects the oesophagus, the food pipe that carries food and drink from the mouth to the stomach.

“As Clinical Nurse Specialists, we support patients and families throughout their journey, from diagnosis through treatment and into recovery or supportive care.

“Early detection plays a vital role in improving outcomes. Unfortunately, symptoms can often be subtle and mistaken for common conditions such as indigestion or reflux. Raising awareness is therefore vital.

“The signs and symptoms to be aware of include, difficulty or pain when swallowing, sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest, persistent heartburn or acid reflux, unexplained weight loss, chest pain or discomfort, ongoing cough or hoarseness, vomiting or regurgitation, fatigue or symptoms of anaemia.

“Prompt assessment and referral for investigations such as endoscopy can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment options.”

Following her surgery, Lesley has adapted to lifestyle changes but continues to live life fully.  Lesley added, “I have had to change my eating habits and be careful with certain foods, but it is manageable. I am still able to do most of the things I always did.


“Cancer has changed my outlook. I value every day and every moment with my family. My daughters and grandchildren have been so supportive. Going through cancer makes you realise how important that time together is.

“If sharing my story helps even one person seek help sooner, then it is worth it.”

Galbraith Calls For Downpatrick Clean-Up

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Galbraith Calls For Downpatrick Clean-Up

Galbraith Says Clean-up Of Downpatrick Town Needed

SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith has said that Downpatrick deserves urgent action to restore pride in the town centre, as he continues to press Council officers for a time-frame to carry out a deep clean of the Cathedral area and the main streets.

Cllr Galbraith said the condition of key areas around Downpatrick Cathedral and the town centre has become a growing concern for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith has pressed for a clean up of Downpatrick given it is a historic town of tourism importance and that residents have a right to have the town cleaned as a matter of civic pride.

He added: “Downpatrick is a historic town with immense potential, but right now parts of it are simply not being maintained to the standard people expect.

“The Cathedral area in particular is one of the most significant heritage locations not just in Downpatrick, but across Ireland.

“It should be a place we showcase with pride. Instead, we are seeing visible deterioration that needs addressed urgently.”

Cllr Galbraith confirmed that he has been engaging directly with Council officers and is currently awaiting confirmation of when a deep clean will take place.

“I have pressed for a full, coordinated deep clean of the Cathedral area and the main streets.

“Our traders work incredibly hard, and residents deserve to feel proud of their town. Clean streets are not a luxury, they are a basic standard.”

He also said that improving cleanliness is a practical and achievable step in supporting footfall, tourism and community confidence.

“This is about civic pride. It’s about creating an environment where people want to shop, visit and spend time. I will continue to push for a clear timetable and will keep the public updated until this work is completed.”

Radius Newry Welcomes Autism NI As Charity

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Radius Newry Welcomes Autism NI As Charity

Radius Housing Staff in Newry Welcome Autism NI as New Corporate Charity Partner

Radius staff from Clanrye Fold in Newry are getting behind the housing associations new corporate charity partnership announced Autism NI.

The partnership was formally launched with an opportunity to introduce Autism NI to Radius teams, learn more about the vital work the charity delivers, and mark the beginning of what promises to be a positive and impactful collaboration.

Sorcha Matthews, Corporate Fundraising Manager, Autism NI and Greer Wilson, Director of Care & Support, Radius Housing.

The staff at Clanrye Fold look forward to working closely with Autism NI over the next two years, including a programme of fundraising and awareness-raising activities in support of the charity.

Autism NI is Northern Ireland’s longest-serving autism charity and the organisation provides essential services to autistic people and their families, while also working with communities, businesses, and government to inspire understanding, educate society, and promote inclusion.

This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for Radius Housing to support a charity that champions acceptance, understanding, and meaningful change. By working together, both organisations aim to make a lasting difference for autistic people across Northern Ireland.

Through this collaboration, Radius Housing hopes to help break down barriers, raise awareness, and contribute to the creation of inclusive communities where every autistic person is supported to achieve their full potential.

Come Join The Downpatrick St Patrick’s Parade

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Come Join The Downpatrick St Patrick’s Parade

Last minute invitation to Community and Sports Groups to take part in the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick

It’s that time of year when local groups get ready to take part in the Downpatrick St Patrick’s Day parade on 17th March which starts at the Downshire Estate and ends up in Market Street in the county town.

Have a happy St Patrick’s. Day on 17th March. Don’t miss the parade in Downpatrick and the fun and activities on around the town! If you want to be in teh parade, you need to have your application form sorted by 20th February.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council would like to invite organisations to take part in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade on Tuesday 17 March 2026 in Downpatrick. 

A spokesperson said: “We would be grateful if you could complete the link below to register to participate in this year’s parade. 

“Details of your insurance(s) need to be emailed to:

[email protected] 

“at time of registering. The closing date for registration is Friday 20 February 2026 just three days away

“Organisations participating in the parade will receive a fee of £200.00 on submission of an invoice, post event.

“Please note if you are not yet registered with Council for payment you need to supply your details, as outlined on the link, to us to allow to send you a Purchase Order Number. 

“Once the event has taken place you will need to send Council an invoice for payment for your participation.”

Hazzard Calls For End Of Palestine Action Ban

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Hazzard Calls For End Of Palestine Action Ban

Hazzard writes to British government calling for ban on Palestine Action to be lifted

Sinn Féin South Down MP Chris Hazzard has said the ruling that the ban on Palestine Action was unlawful represents a damning indictment of the British government’s approach to protest rights and Palestinian solidarity.

Chris Hazzard MP written to the UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood MP calling on the ban on Palestine Action to be lifted.

Speaking after writing to British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Mr Hazzard said the judgment vindicates the thousands of activists who have campaigned against the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The South Down MP said: “Friday’s ruling was a watershed moment. It confirms what activists, lawyers and human rights organisations have been saying from the outset that highlighting the suffering of the Palestinian people and raising concerns about breaches of international law is not a crime. It never was.

“This ruling exposes the British state’s attempt to suppress the Palestinian solidarity movement as unlawful, heavy‑handed and fundamentally undemocratic.

“Efforts to silence those exposing war crimes in Gaza – actions enabled by consecutive British governments – have now been struck down in court.

“No government should ever undermine the basic right of people to speak out against injustice or to stand in solidarity with those facing grave humanitarian crises.”

Mr Hazzard added the ruling must trigger a fundamental reassessment of British policy on Palestine saying
“The British government must now fundamentally:

• re-assess its policy on Palestine;

• nd its complicity in the ongoing occupation,

• address the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza,

• and ensure its actions align with international law and global human rights standards. Nothing less is acceptable.”

How to Use Casino Bonuses to Back Your Favorite NFL Team

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How to Use Casino Bonuses to Back Your Favorite NFL Team

It’s a familiar Sunday ritual to get your coffee in front of the computer, the injury reports are pulled up on your second monitor, and you are staring at a slate of NFL games that feels like a total minefield. Sitting on the edge of the couch, knowing that the underdog in the late window is a lock, but your account balance is telling you to play it safe. It’s annoying when your football intuition is screaming at you, but your bankroll is stuck in neutral.

Honestly, being a fan is more than just about knowing who has the best offensive line. For the people who love American football, there is this weirdly effective “special teams” play that most of them overlook – online casino bonuses. It sounds a bit random, but if you play it right, you’re using the house’s money to fund your Sunday obsession. It’s all about getting that extra bit of yardage when the stakes are high.

Why Welcome Bonuses are a Game-Changer in Betting

In the league, field position is the most important one. Starting a drive at your own 10-yard line is a nightmare, but starting at the opponent’s 40? That’s where you actually start to feel confident. Think of your betting funds the same way. Online casinos are currently in a massive, high-stakes race to grab your attention. For us football fans, it’s like being handed a star player on a rookie contract – lots of upside without the massive hit to your own cap space.

The Deposit Match: Boosting Your Salary Cap

The most common play you will see when it comes to bonuses is the deposit match. A site tells you they will match your first deposit 100% or maybe more. You put in a couple of hundred bucks, and suddenly you’ve got double that to play with. Most of the time, you should keep your own cash for the safe bets (the ones that should be locks) and use the bonus funds for those wild and high-paying bets that probably won’t hit, but make the game a hell of a lot more fun to watch.

Risk-Free First Quarters

Then you’ve got the “Risk-Free” bets. These are the ultimate safety nets for when you want to take a shot on a “Hail Mary” prop bet. If your pick goes wrong, the casino/sportsbook just hands you back your stake in credits. It’s probably the only time in life where you actually get something after a bad decision. It definitely takes the sting out of a late-game turnover.

Reading the Terms and Conditions

You should always read the playbook before you run the play. These sites have “Wagering Requirements,” which is just fancy talk for how much you have to play before you can actually take the money and enjoy it. If you are betting on 16 games a weekend plus the Monday night game, you will probably hit those requirements without even realizing it. Just don’t get penalized at the goal line because you didn’t check the rules.

Top Betting Bonuses for NFL to Watch This Season

You would not sign a free agent without watching some tape, right? We have spent some time doing the study for you on what’s out there right now. If you want to see the actual bonus offers, you should check out these secure casino sites reviewed by experts to see who is actually worth your time and who is just blowing smoke.

The High-Roller Bonus

Some of these online betting sites are going big – we are talking packages that reach up to $10,000 or more across your first few deposits. It’s perfect if you are planning on riding the wave all the way through the playoffs and into the Super Bowl. It keeps your account from going into a rebuilding year right when the games matter most.

The Hybrid Package: Casino + Sportsbook Bonuses

These will be your favorite offers when you land on a “Hybrid” site. These bonuses are the ones where you can win a few hands of Blackjack on a quiet Tuesday and then move directly into the NFL Sunday night. It’s much easier than jumping between five different apps while you are trying to keep track of the score. One locker room, one bankroll, it just makes life simpler.

Crypto Special Offers

Speed in casino and sports betting is everything in 2026. If you are into Bitcoin or Ethereum, some of these online casinos and NFL bookies will give you an even bigger bonus, sometimes up to 300%. The best part isn’t even the money, but the fact that when you win, the “touchdown celebration” happens almost instantly. No waiting three days for a bank transfer while the next game is already starting.

Game-Day Strategy: Linking Your Bonus to the NFL Spread

Having a bonus is great, but using it like a Pro-Bowl QB is what separates the winners from the guys just throwing picks. You want to time your boost with the biggest moments of the season.

Betting the Over on Fun

Let’s be honest, NFL broadcasts are about 40% commercials at this point. During those long breaks or when the refs are taking ten minutes to review a catch that was clearly a catch, you can use your casino free spins bonus on some football-themed slots. It’s a mindless way to pass the time and maybe pick up some extra cash for wings while the game is on pause.

Hedging Your Bets

This is a total defensive coordinator move. Say you’ve got a real-money bet on the Packers to win. You can use your bonus money to bet on the opponent to cover the spread. No matter what happens on the field, your bankroll lives to fight another day. It’s about being smart and not letting one bad call ruin your whole weekend.

Watch out for the Flags

Even the best teams get flagged for holding. In the world of bonuses, a penalty can take your winnings right off the board.

  • Out of Bounds Markets: Some bonuses don’t count if you are betting on massive favorites (like -500). Make sure your picks are in-bounds, so your wagering actually counts toward your goal.
  • Clock Management: Bonuses have expiration dates. Don’t let your credits vanish during a “Bye Week.” If you claim it, use it.
  • Bet Caps: Some sites have a cap on how much you can bet per game while using a bonus. Don’t get flagged for irresponsible conduct by trying to bet the whole thing at once.

The Post-Game Wrap-Up

We are all just looking for a win in the NFL betting world. Turning a one-time welcome bonus into a season-long winning streak is the goal. We always tell people to keep an eye on sites like AussieCasinos.com because they are always updating their lists with casinos and sportsbooks where the NFL is the main betting obsession. 

Combining your football knowledge with a bit of savvy bonus-hunting is the ultimate strategy. It takes the pressure off your own wallet and lets you enjoy the game for what it is – totally unpredictable chaos.

Contractor Appointed For Newry Development

Staff Reporter
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Contractor Appointed For Newry Development

Contractor Appointment for Theatre and Conference Centre as Newry City Centre Regeneration Project Enters Delivery Phase

Newry Mourne and Down District Council has marked a major milestone in its ambitious regeneration programme for Newry City with the appointment of a contractor for its new Theatre and Conference Centre.

Signalling the start of the delivery phase of the Newry City Centre Programme of works, Woodvale Construction Company will be renovating the historic Grade II-listed Newry Town Hall and building a multi-functional venue upon the site of the neighbouring Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. Linked by a glazed atrium, the two buildings will operate as a single location.

Complementing the historic 460-seater Newry Town Hall theatre, the new auditorium will have 255 seats capable of being used in range of configurations, supported by the latest in audio visual and performance systems.

In its expanded conference layout, this versatile space can also accommodate up to 315 seats. An attractive public realm performance space to the rear of the facility will additionally help regenerate the entire Sugar Island area.

There will now be a period of pre-construction work before building works begin in the Summer. The Theatre and Conference Centre, supported by Belfast Region City Deal and the Shared Island Initiative, is expected to be completed and open to the public in Spring 2028.

An architect’s impression of the proposed theatre an conference centre in Newry.

As part of the Theatre and Conference project, the Council and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) are jointly advancing the design of an element of the wider Newry Flood Alleviation Scheme.

This part, when complete, will form an integral component in supporting the delivery of the wider Newry Flood Alleviation Scheme which is also currently under development by DfI.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA said: “I welcome the appointment of a contractor for the new Theatre and Conference Centre and congratulate all involved in getting to this stage.

“My department is committed to the development of our cities, towns and villages and welcomes the significant opportunities now open to Newry following this major investment into its cultural infrastructure.”

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell said: “I am delighted we have reached the stage of contractor appointment. I look forward to the new Theatre and Conference Centre in Newry delivering a vibrant programme of events for both residents and visitors.

“Our district is renowned for producing exceptional acting talent that has gone on to succeed on the world stage. Newry’s proud theatrical legacy will continue, as a new generation of young performers, supported by their mentors, develop their passion for theatre in state-of-the-art facilities.”

An alternative design of the conference centre and theatre in Newry.

Cllr Campbell continued, “The Theatre and Conference Centre will also help increase footfall in Newry City and support the night-time economy.

“Over the next decade the Newry City Centre Regeneration programme will strengthen Newry’s role within the Belfast-Dublin Economic Corridor, building on its strategic location and offering sustainable growth within the city and across the district.”

Robert Ewing, Managing Director of Woodvale Construction, said: “We are proud to deliver this landmark project for Newry.

“This is part of a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of the city, and we are committed to working closely with Newry Mourne and Down District Council to deliver high-quality, sustainable infrastructure that reflects the ambition of the district.

“As construction of the Theatre and Conference Centre gets underway, we look forward to creating local employment, supporting local supply chains and playing our part in building a prosperous future for Newry.”

The £21.3 million Theatre and Conference Centre is part of a wider £64.4 million investment in the City Centre, including a 15-acre Newry City Park, new public realm, office accommodation fund and a Civic and Regional Hub.

Once on site, the Newry City Centre Regeneration projects are expected to create a range of skilled and semi-skilled jobs in the construction industry — supporting local employment and skills development.

Local suppliers and service providers will also benefit through contracts and support services. Beyond the construction phase, it will also lead to sustainable long-term job creation across multiple sectors including retail, hospitality, the creative industries and public services.

Co-Chairs of the Newry City Centre Regeneration Programme Board Councillors Declan Murphy and Doire Finn welcomed the latest developments.  

Cllr Murphy said, “We look forward to seeing the positive impact that the Theatre and Conference Centre and wider regeneration plans will have on the vibrancy of city life in the years ahead.

“We know there is much work still to be done but we are proud of our city and its potential and committed to delivering for the people of Newry and the entire district.”

Cllr Finn said, “The Theatre and Conference Centre will help to position Newry as a leading regional centre for arts, learning, events, and culture.

“I look forward to further progress being made on this, and other projects, particularly Newry’s City Park which I hope will enhance Newry’s appeal as a place to live in, work in, invest in and visit.”

As announced in November 2025, building on the arts capital investment dimension of the Government of Ireland’s Shared Island Initiative, the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport will complete assessment of a proposed capital funding contribution towards the construction of Newry Theatre, in consultation with the Northern Ireland Executive (Department for Communities) and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

School Play Looks At Violence Against Females

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School Play Looks At Violence Against Females

School play shines a spotlight on behaviour that leads to Violence Against Women and Girls 

A specially commissioned play, highlighting the signs of harmful and coercive behaviour that can lead to women and girls experiencing violence and abuse in relationships, will be staged in a number of post-primary schools across the district, starting 16 February, 2026.

Entitled The Voice Within, the play written and directed by Spanner in the Works Theatre Company, follows a teenage partnership and highlights behaviours and attitudes that lead to control and violence in a relationship. 

The powerful production is part of Newry Mourne, and Down District Council’s continued campaign and commitment to Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG).

Many women experience domestic violence and coercive control. Newry Mourne and Down District Council is supporting a play called The Voice Within performed by theatre company Spanner in the Works to be shown to 1000 post primary pupils across the council area.

The play, which examines themes of control and violence in relationships and the importance of communication and respect to avoid harm, is followed by an interactive workshop.

Organised and delivered by the Council’s seven District Electoral Areas (DEAs), the play is supported by The Executive Office Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Momentum Funding. 

The play will be performed in front of over 1,000 students and conclude with a performance in Newry Town Hall on Tuesday, 24 February, which will be attended by Newry Mourne and Down Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell.

He has highlighted the significance of the play in helping young people understand behaviour that can lead to control and violence in a relationship and has commended everyone involved in the initiative.

Cllr Cambell said: “The play provides an insight into the harmful, coercive behaviour that can lead to women and girls experiencing violence and abuse in their relationship.

“Such behaviour has no place in society. Women and girls should feel safe at all times.

“The Voice Within play and workshops support the Council’s determination to tackle this issue.

“The play helps raise awareness about a matter which affects millions of women and girls across the globe who deserve to live free from threat or harm in any shape or form.”

The play will be delivered across the district with students attending from a number of schools including, Kilkeel High School, St. Louis Grammar, Kilkeel; Assumption Grammar and St Colman’s High and Sixth Form College, both Ballynahinch; Lecale Trinity Grammar, Downpatrick; St. Malachy’s High, Castlewellan; Abbey Grammar, Our Lady’s Grammar, St Colman’s College, St Joseph’s High and St Mary’s High, all Newry; St Joseph’s High, Crossmaglen, St Paul’s High School,. Bessbrook and Newtownhamilton High School.

Down Beat Westmeath In Close Encounter

Jim Masson
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Down Beat Westmeath In Close Encounter

Down cut it fine after Westmeath fought back in second half reducing Down’s lead to just 3 points

Allianz GAA Football League 2026,

NFL Division 3, Round 3,

Venue: Pairc Esler, 14 2 26,

Final Score: Down 2-15 1-15 Westmeath.

Down Manager Conor Laverty will be delighted at his side’s win over Westmeath who have over the years always proven to be formidible adversaries.

Down, positioned in the NFL Division 3, is looking for promotion next season and with three straight wins on the cards they are off to a flying start writes Jim Masson.

Daniel Guinness has been a shining light for Down through the first two rounds scoring 5 points in each match and is battle-hardened for the season ahead.

Westmeath opened the scoring with a point then on 5 minutes Adam Crimmins pointed to level the score followe dby a point from John McGeough.

Odhran Murdock played his part in the Down win over Westmeath.

Odhran Murdock took a point but Westmeath were pressing hard and levelled the scoring a 0-5 to 0-5. But despite the Westmeath resurgence, Down settled down to play some great football. Daniel Guinness took a point on 23 minutes which seemed to signal that Down were to go up a gear.

He shook off two opponents on 25 minutes and kicked well to score under pressure. The points gap now started to widen.

Guinness was on fire and despite the terrible weather conditions, fought hard for his team. He received a through ball from Crimmins and quickly sent it over the bar.

See Action Photos on Down v Westmeath on Down News Facebook

Then on 33 minutes, Ryan Magill received a pass from McGeough and scored well. Psychologically, it was a good time to score a goal just before half-time. It widened the gap to 8 points of a lead for Down boosting their confidence.

Westmeath immediately fought back but Down broke again and McGeough roared into the Westmeath goalmouth but the referee blew for a square ball as the ball bounced into the Westmeath net. But despite not getting the points, it sent a message to Westmeath that Down were on a mission.

As the second half commenced, the heavy sleet continued and Down quickly took a point with little resistance as Ceilum Doherty surged forward. Then Crimmins took another point. Yes despite this Westmeath fought on trying to turn their fortune round but Down’s defence was working well.

Guinness took another point increasing the score to 1-13 to 0-8. Down were still comfortablly ahead at this juncture.

Down’s Daniel Guinness evades a Westmeath defender as he charges towards their goal area. Photos: JimMasson/DownNews©).

Down’s Pat Havern then turned the screws and scored a goal again increasing the Down lead 12 points.

But Westmeath went up a gear just when Down seemed to blink and points from sub Sam Smyth, Luke Loughlin, and sub Jack Duncan brought Westmeath once again into a position when they could turn the game round. Down must have sensed this change in intentions in the visitors.

A goal from Ryan Magill had kept Down ahead of the increasing threat from Westmeath.

Gradually Westmeath closed the gap and Barry O’Hagan volleyed at the Down goal and hit the post and Westmeath collected a goal for their efforts.

But incredibly Westmeath were just two points in the deficit in the closing minutes and a goal would turn the game. However, it was Ceilum Doherty who scored a point for Down meaning that they at worst could settle with a draw.

But Down hung on and Westmeath could not rally enough to find that elusive goal despite a great fight giving both Down and Westmeath fans plenty to shout about.

This was another sound but narrow win for Down, and as expected, Westmeath put up a strong fight and will in their next encounter be looking to redress the balance.

Up next for Down is their Round 4 match in Wexford at 2pm at Chadwick’s Wexford Park on Sunday 22nd February 2026.

Down starting team: 1. Ronan Burns (GK) 2 Peter Fegan 3 Pierce Laverty 4 Callum Rogers 5 Pearse McPolin 6 Ryan Magill 7 Daniel Guinness 8 Odhran Murdock Ryan McEvoy 10 Adam Crimmins 11 Ceilum Doherty 12 Shane Annett 13 Barry O’Hagan 14 Pat Havern 15 John McGeough.

Westmeath starting team: 1 Jack Connaughton 2 Danny Scahill 3 Charlie Drumm 4 Boidu Sayeh 5 Ronan Wallace 6 Tadhg Baker 7 Jonathan Lynam 8 Shane Allen 9 Ray Connellan 10 Kevin Sullivan 11 Sam McCartan 12 Matthew Whittaker 13 Danny McCartan 14 Luke Loughlin 15 Senan Baker.

See Action Photos on Down v Westmeath on Down News Facebook

Killough Too Strong For Ballyvea Thirds

Jim Masson
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Killough Too Strong For Ballyvea Thirds

Killough Through To The Harry Clarke Semi-Finals

The Newcastle and District Amateur Football League,

Harry Clarke Cup QF,

Venue: Donard Park, Newcastle,

Final Result: Killough FC 4 0 Ballyvea 3s.

Killough got off to a slow start but later dominated the game against Ballyvea Thirds.

For the first almost 30 minutes Killough attacked Ballyvea but despite shots at the goal they were goal-less. It was Gareth Georghe (captain) who broke the goal drought on teh 29th minute with a superbly taken goal writes Jim Masson.

Killough hope was restored and minutes later Daire McLaughlin went wide with a low volley. The cracks were appearing in the Ballyvea back line.

Killough captain Gareth George opens teh scoring for Killough. (Photos: JimMasson/DownNews©).

ack McLaughlin then scored the second goal putting Killough in the driving seat before half-time.

But Killough were not resting on their Laurels and three minutes later Killough sprung another attack and in front of the Ballyvea goal the ball dropped to Killough midfielder Liam Mitchell’s feet. He turned quickly and knocked the ball into the Ballyvea net before keeper Steven Main could get to it on 42 minutes.

CHECK OUT DOWN NEWS MATCH PHOTOS HERE

Ballyvea did try an dfight back on occasions. One late effort saw midfielder James White drop the ball into the Killough box and James Turner crossed to Andrew GHraham but his shot went just wide.

Liam Mitchell scored for Killough.

In the second half Ballyvea hardly had a noteworthy attack on the Killough goal and Marty Murphy could well have brought his flask and sandwiches with him for this match.

Killough continued their pressure attaching and made full use of giving their subs a chance on the pitch.

Jack McLaughlin again was the spearhead of Killough attacks and in creating opportunities. Just as teh match re-commenced, he had a clear run at the Ballyvea goal and hot over the top bar.

Jack McLaughlin scored two goals for Killough.

The game had become one-sided with Killough constantly pressing, and Ballyvea making an occasional break out.

Killough won a corner and Gareth Georghe took it send the ball to the head of Jack McLaughlin who expertly placed the ball in the top of the Ballyvea net making the score 4-0.

Mitchell headed a powerful shot on target to the Ballyvea net but keeper Steven Main managed a fingertip save pushing the ball over the top bar for a corner. The match was effectively over at this stage.

CHECK OUT DOWN NEWS MATCH PHOTOS HERE

Tony McIlhone challenges Ballyvea thirds keeper Steven Main.

Killough are now through to the semi-final stage of the Harry Clarke Cup. Their next match whoever they are drawn against won’t be as easy as against Ballvea Thirds.

Killough FC: 1 Marty Murphy (GK) 2 Riain Burns 3 Conor Kelly 4 Sean Og Burns 5 Liam Mitchel 6 Tony McIlhone 7 Adam McGarrity 8 Cillian Burns (C) 9 Gareth George 10 Jack McLaughlin 11 Daire McLaughlin. Subs: 12 Ryan McIlhone 14 James Tumelty 16 Lee Murphy.

Ballyvea FC 111s 1 Steven Main (GK) 2 Alan McConnell (C) 3 Matthew Graham 4 Nathan Baird 5 James White 6 Mark Haugh 7 Jamie Annett 8 Jeffrey Stewart 9 James Turner 10 Andrew Graham 11 Archie Fryar. Subs: 12 Geoffrey Bennett 14 Graeme McKibbin 15 Andrew Robinson.

CHECK OUT DOWN NEWS MATCH PHOTOS HERE

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