Kilmore Rec Share The Spoils With Abbey Villa

Jim Masson
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Kilmore Rec Share The Spoils With Abbey Villa

Kilmore Rec ceded a goal late on to share points with Abbey Villa

The NAFL,

Premier League,

Venue: Robert Adams Park, 7th February 2026.

Final Score: Kilmore Rec 1 1 Abbey Villa.

Kimore Rec got off to a flying start against Abbey Villa with James Mahoney hammering in the ball from the middle of the Abbey Villa box after some early pressure from the Rec writes Jim Masson.

The home side were attacking quire strongly with a long ball from Tomas Murphy to Joe Healy who passed to Fionn Muhern who went marginally offsides in his break.

Declan McComiskey then passed through to John Mahoney who left-footed a great volley forcing Abbey keeper James Darlington to push the ball over the top bar for a corner.

Abbey settled and came back more into the game, which swung to and fro at a quick pace. Ryan Convery was just wide on one volley, then Mark Cooling hit a 30-yarder low but it was well held by Kilmore keeper Casey Courtney.

In one attack, Kilmore’s Henry Smyth hit a solid ball on target but it was just blocked by a defender. Abbey through the first half had a series of corners as they pressed forward trying to equalise but the Kilmore defenders were holding out well.

Abbey Villa’s Casey Courtney chases Kilmore Rec Henry Smyth for the ball.
(Photos: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

Abbey seemed to be getting the ball into the danger area but were not finishing well.

The second half commenced with the Kilmore defence doing strongly to keep Abbey from scoring. There was one early moment of danger as Adam Arthurs tried to squeeze the ball into the Kilmore net but he was eventually dispossessed in the goalmouth. Kilmore were treading on thin ice.

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As Kilmore pressed forward, Joe Healy shot and hit the crossbar. Kilmore Rec were trying to raise their game and keep Abbey out of their half. Forwards Mulhern, Conlon and (James) Mahoney worked hard in vain to try and create a second goal.

Kilmore Rec goalkeeper Casey Courtney was the fan’s Player of the Match selected by supporter Ted Ellison.

Declan McComiskey hit a low volley and it bounced off the Abbey right hand post from a defenders leg. Kilmore were certainly looking like the team most likely to score by the run of play.

But Abbey stepped up their game and won another corner, Mark Cooling hit a shot just over the Kilmore top post.

And Abbey won yet another corner and had three efforts at scoring until eventually Jake Wilson seized the moment and blasted the ball from the middle of the box. It came off two Kilmore players and the referee deemed it an own goal with Abbey equalising at 1-1 in the 68th minute.

Kilmore fought back and were on the break and Mulhern went on a solo run tagged by three defenders. He did well to get into the box and hit the ball at a sharp angle at the goal and just missed the back post.

In one play Conlon fed the ball through to Smyth on a charge but he was just deemed offside.

Abbey keeper James Darlington was in good form as he managed to finger the ball over the top bar for a corner after a fierce Kilmore drive.

When Abbey’s midfielder Smyth was taken down, a free kick was awarded and the 30-yard effort by McComiskey low to the right hand corner was on target but Kilmore keeper Blake Henry made a brilliant diving save putting the ball out for a corner… and Kilmore then survived that spell of attacks.

Abbey came more into the game at the tail end of the second half.

On one occasion Kiimore managed a break with a pass from Conlon to Smyth but the referee blew for an offside as he went clear.

Then Kilmore’s last fling saw the Abbey keeper’s finger the ball over the top post for a corner denying them a winner in the dying embers of the match.

Kilmore Rec and Abbey Vila in goalmouth action.

The last real moment of drama came when Abbey’s Smyth was taken down in the Kilmore half 30 yards from their goal. Mark Cooling took the free kick aiming for the top right hand corner and was on target but was denied a goal by a terrific flying save by Kilmore keeper Blake Henry.

Both keepers had made great saves in the match and a draw seemed the logical result for the match with both teams cancelling each other out.

Abbey Villa are now sitting in third position in the Premier League table while Kilmore Rec are positioned at the bottom of the table, but with a bit of form they will pull themselves out of the relegation zone.

Kilmore do have a few young players on their squad and it will a a couple of years before they all firm up and compete more strongly in the top flight of the NAFL Premier League.

Keeper Blake Henry was nominated the Kilmore Player of the Match by supporter Ted Ellison.

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Kilmore Rec: 1 Blake Henry (GK) 2 John Mahoney 3 Matthew Stewart 4 Tomas Murphy 5 Christopher Magee 6 Joe Healy 7 Declan McComiskey 8 Henry Smyth 9 Fionn Mulhern 10 Caolan Conlon (C) 11 James Mahoney. Subs: 12 Cal Gemmel 14 Shay McGrattan 15 Conor McCarron.

Abbey Villa FC: 1 James Darlington )GK) 2 Ross Murphy 3 Casey Courtney 4 Adam Arthurs (C) Matthew Dempster 6 Joshua Barnes 7 Mark Cooling 8 Ryan Convery 9 Jake Wilson 10 Ross Arhurs 11 Jack Uprichard. Subs: Jonathan Angis 14 Gregg Fleming 15 Sam Millar.

Ben Freeman Signed Up By Belfast Giants

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Ben Freeman Signed Up By Belfast Giants

Giants add Ben Freeman to Roster for rest of season

The Belfast Giants can confirm the signing of 30-year-old forward Ben Freeman for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

From Falmouth, the Maine-native joins the Giants from Danish Metal Ligaen side, Frederikshavn White Hawks, where he notched 26 total points in 41 games in all competitions.

Prior to his move into European hockey, Freeman made over 250 appearances for teams across the ECHL and SPHL, icing for the Wheeling Nailers, Pensacola Flyers, and Greenville Swamp Rabbits, serving as captain of the latter for two seasons between 2023 and 2025.

Ben Freeman is signed up for the rest of the season with the Belfast Giants. (Photo: University of Connecticut Athletics).

Adam Keefe, Head Coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “Ben is a 6’5″ two-way centre that transports the puck up the ice well for a big man. He has been captain at every level he’s played, a testament to his character and leadership. He comes highly recommended from prior coaches and is excited to get to Belfast and do whatever it takes to help his team win.”

Before beginning his professional career, Freeman spent four seasons playing with the University of Connecticut (UConn), captaining the Huskies and contributing 28 total points in 33 games in his senior year.

“Ben was also a member of the UConn roster that took part in the 2018 Friendship Four at The SSE Arena, Belfast.

The Belfast Giants return to action this weekend, taking on the Fife Flyers at The SSE Arena, Belfast on Saturday 7 February.

Tickets are on sale now and available to purchase here.  

Image Credit – University of Connecticut Athletics

Silent Cuts Receives National Lottery Award

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Silent Cuts Receives National Lottery Award

Silent Cuts in Downpatrick receives National Lottery funding to support inclusive employability

Mainstay DRP is pleased to announce that Silent Cuts, our sensory-friendly hair salon in Downpatrick, has been awarded £15,791 from The National Lottery Awards for All programme.

Silent Cuts in Downpatrick has received a National Lottery grant to support their inclusive employability project.

The funding will support the delivery of a structured employability and training programme for adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults, alongside the continued development of Silent Cuts as an inclusive community service.

Silent Cuts is a social enterprise developed by Mainstay DRP to remove barriers that many people experience when accessing everyday services.

The salon has been designed to provide a calm, low-sensory environment and offers both regular and one-to-one appointments to meet individual needs.

The Awards for All funding will enable Mainstay DRP to provide dedicated employability support within the salon, including:

  • A Support Coach role to work alongside participants
  • Structured training and real work experience in a live salon setting
  • A supportive environment where individuals can build confidence, skills and independence at their own pace

Participants in the programme will take part in a combination of salon-based training, real customer-facing experience, and employability skills development, with support tailored to each individual.

Sarah-Jane Mowbray, Chief Executive of Mainstay DRP, said: “This funding is an important step in developing Silent Cuts as both a community service and a meaningful pathway into training and employment.

Sarah-Jane Mowbray, CEO of Mainstay DRP.

“Many adults with learning disabilities face barriers when it comes to gaining work experience, particularly in everyday settings.

“Through Silent Cuts, we are creating opportunities that are realistic, supportive and rooted in the local community.

“We are very grateful to The National Lottery and to National Lottery players for helping make this possible.”

This funding recognises the value of creating meaningful, accessible pathways into training and employment for adults with learning disabilities, and supports Mainstay DRP’s wider commitment to inclusion, choice and independence.

Mainstay DRP would like to thank The National Lottery and National Lottery players for making this project possible. The funding will help ensure Silent Cuts continues to benefit both individuals and the wider community.

RELATED POST:

Mainstay DRP Opens Silent Cuts In Downpatrick

Police Arrest Three After Early Morning Pursuit

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Police Arrest Three After Early Morning Pursuit

Police in Car Chase Arrest Two Men And A Woman

Police have made three arrests following an early morning vehicle pursuit in Ballynahinch on Friday, 6th February.

A red Audi failed to stop when signalled to do so by officers shortly after midnight on Main Street, Ballynahinch. It then made off in the direction of Dromara at speed.

It was brought to a stop by colleagues from the Roads Policing Unit in the vicinity of the Rathfriland Road, Dromara.

A man, aged 27 was arrested on suspicion of a number of motoring offences including dangerous driving and taking a motor vehicle without authority.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including criminal damage. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

A 25-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of  a number of offences including possession of suspected Class B and C controlled drugs. She has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

The 27-year-old man remains in custody at this time.

Killyleagh Shedders Restore 120-Year Old Cart

Jim Masson
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Killyleagh Shedders Restore 120-Year Old Cart

Killyleagh And District Mens Shed Restore Small 120-Year Old Irish Cart From Tullymurry Equestrian Centre

Killyleagh and District Mens Shed is growing from strength-to stength and recently completed an interesting project, the restoration of a wooden, farm cart believed to be about 120 years old.

The cart is owned by Marian Turley from the Tullymurry Equestrian Centre on the Ballydugan Road near Downpatrick and she said that it had been used as a feature beside her home dressed up with pot plants but had fallen badly into disrepair.

Marian Turley from the Tullymurry Equestrian Centre pictured with Killyleagh shedder Pearse Murray. (Photos: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

She said: “The cart was in quite a poor state. It came originally from Ballinlough Castle in County Meath where they ran equestrian events and they basically were having a clear-out at the time.

“I had got to know the staff there through being involved in equestrian events. I spotted the cart and took it home to Downpatrick.

“It has fallen into a poor state and needed some tender loving care. Someone suggested asking Killyleagh Men’s Shed to take a look at it and I’m just amazed at the great work that they have done in refurbishing it.

Iranian Behrooz Nowrouzi was much involved in repairing the old cart.

“The small cart was really the forerunner of the wheelbarrow and was used to pull bales of hay and animal feed around the yard. It was a working cart. These carts were quite common back in late Victorian Ireland so we have helped preserve a bit of our history.”

Marian added: “I am currently training actors in riding skills at the moment for the series “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” and one of the production team, the prop master, said that he had a diagram of a similar old cart and it showed clearly the workings of the turntable system which was badly broken.

“He sent me some photos, and it all just seemed to come together after that. It was unbelievable coincidence that he had the exact information we needed to fix to complicated turntable.

Marian Turley from the Tullymurry Equestrian Centre near Downpatrick pictured beside the restored cart with volunteers Pearse Murray and Sean O’Neill.

“So I decided to get it fully repaired and Killyleagh Mens Shed have done an excellent job on it. I’m so delighted.”

The cart needed a significant overhaul. Spokes had to be replaced, the original iron wheel rim had to be cleaned and tidied up, the turntable system had to be re-done, some straps, woodworm treatment was applied, and parts were replaced, and overall it needed to be rubbed down and recoated with a nice stain.

Shed chairman Mark Turley focussed on repairing the spokes and wheels mainly and he was helped in the restoration project by a former Iranian farmer who had 50 hectares of land growing corn, lettuce, tomatoes and other crops, but had to leave his country because of the insecurities there.

Behrooz Nowrouzi had a lot of useful skills and applied them to repairing the cart. And when the work was complete he sanded the cart down and applied some ebony wood stain which brought the cart back to it aged rustic appearance.

The complex turntable system was badly broken but shedders managed to repair it with diagrams supplied from the prop master of A Knight of the Seven KIngdoms. Actors are receiving horse riding lessons at the Tullymurry. Equestrian Centre.

Using his mobile phone translator, Behrooz said: “I am delighted to have helped restore the cart. I hope Marian gets many years enjoyment out of it.”

Shed volunteers Sean O’Brien and Pearse Murray were on hand at the unveiling of the cart. Sean said: “This has been a great project. The cart has been refurbished to a high standard. We are delighted at the result.”

And Pearse said: “This has been a win-win for everyone. Marian is delighted with the work we have done on the cart, and the mens’ shed have pulled together the skills needed to get the job done. It is now in good shape for another 100 years.”

Check out:

Tullytmurry Equestrian Centre.

Killyleagh Mens Shed

Rosie’s Trust Celebrates The 10 Year Volunteers

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Rosie’s Trust Celebrates The 10 Year Volunteers

Rosie’s Trust recognises 10-year volunteers at Parliament Buildings celebration

Northern Ireland’s only charity that cares for people by caring for their pets recently hosted a special event at Stormont to honour the dedication of its longest-serving volunteers.

Founded in 2015, Rosie’s Trust has been caring for people by caring for their pets for the past decade, thanks to the hard work and dedication of its 200+ volunteers across Northern Ireland.

Rosie’s Trust volunteer Jill Truesdale pictured with two dogs in her care temporarily.

Through the charity’s support services for cancer patients, older people aged 65+ with mobility issues, and those receiving end of life care, Rosie’s Trust volunteers are able to reach some of the most isolated and vulnerable members of the community who depend on their pets for companionship and emotional support.

To recognise a milestone year, Rosie’s Trust recently marked its tenth anniversary with a special event in the Long Gallery at Parliament Buildings.

Together with volunteers, staff, beneficiaries and partners, the occasion was attended by deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, Junior Minister, Aisling Reilly MLA, and event sponsor, David Honeyford MLA.

10-year volunteers, Peter Crozier, Lynda Crozier and Ian Brown, have been with Rosie’s Trust since it was founded by nurse Bronagh O’Neill.

The Minister of Agriculture, Andrew Muir, was also in attendance with John Blair MLA, Chair of the All-Party Group for Animal Welfare, together with Mark Durkan MLA, Colin McGrath MLA, Jonathan Buckley MLA, Patsy McGlone MLA, Diane Forsythe MLA, Daniel McCrossan MLA, Justin McNulty MLA and Councillor Lauren Kendall.

The charity’s newest celebrity ambassador, James Nesbitt OBE, joined the group to present the longest-serving volunteers with a special trophy in recognition of 10 years of service.

Chair of Rosie’s Trust, Aileen Martin, said: “Over the past ten years, our volunteers have provided thousands of hours of practical and emotional support for people and their pets, and ensured that our beneficiaries don’t have to face the heartbreak of giving up their pet because they are facing illness or older age.

“The majority of our beneficiaries live alone and their pets are their sole source of companionship and support.

Celebrity ambassador, James Nesbitt, and Rosie’s Trust Chair, Aileen Martin, are joined by Mark Durkan MLA and Colin McGrath MLA to mark 10 years of caring for people by caring for their pets.

“We wanted to celebrate and acknowledge our volunteers’ dedication, including those who have been with the charity since it was founded by nurse Bronagh O’Neill. Their kindess and commitment has changed the lives of so many and has kept people and their pets together when they have needed each other the most.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us to mark this significant milestone for our charity with a special mention to our event sponsor, David Honeyford MLA.”

David Honeyford MLA, added: “Congratulations to Rosie’s Trust on its tenth anniversary, and to all of the charity’s volunteers who are helping people facing difficult times to keep their pets by their side.

“It is a unique service which is supporting the health and well-being of people in Northern Ireland 365 days of the year.”

Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, is joined by Rosie’s Trust celebrity ambassador James Nesbitt, and Diane Forsythe MLA at Parliament Buildings to celebrate 10 years of Rosie’s Trust and its volunteers.

Speaking at the event, celebrity ambassador for Rosie’s Trust, James Nesbitt, said: “It is a privilege to be involved with a local charity that is supporting some of the most vulnerable people in Northern Ireland.

“I have enjoyed meeting the volunteers from over the past decade who have made Rosie’s Trust the special organisation that it is, and I look forward to playing my part in spreading awareness of the charity and its support services.”

For more information on Rosie’s Trust, and how you can support the charity to keep caring for people by caring for their pets through volunteering or donating, visit:

 rosiestrust.org

Ards International Guitar Festival Hits Big 30

Jim Masson
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Ards International Guitar Festival Hits Big 30

Ards International Guitar Festival Strikes A Chord For Its 30th Anniversary

The much‑loved Ards International Guitar Festival will return to Newtownards from 15 – 19 April, celebrating an incredible 30 years of world‑class performances, inspiring collaborations and unforgettable guitar‑driven moments.

Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the 2026 programme brings together exceptional players from across the UK, Ireland and beyond, honouring the versatility and global influence of the guitar in all its forms.

Speaking about this year’s milestone programme, the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said: “I am thrilled to welcome Ards International Guitar Festival back to the Borough.

“The guitar has always held a special place in Newtownards’ cultural life, and it is wonderful to see the festival celebrate its 30th Anniversary.”

Mayor of Ards and North Down Cllr Gillian McCollum with musicians Ricky Warwick and Frank Carbery looking forward to the Ards International Guitar Festival 2026 celebrating the festival’s 30th year. (Photo: courtesy of Ards and North Down Borough Council).

Festival Director Emily Crawford added: “We are absolutely delighted to be celebrating such a special anniversary this year.

“The 2026 line‑up offers an eclectic mix of styles from classical to folk, blues, contemporary and rock- reflecting the remarkable range of the instrument and its players with some special nods to the history and legacy of the past 30 years.”

This milestone year opens with French virtuoso Pierre Bensusan, who appears as part of his 50th Anniversary World Tour.

Known worldwide as “Mister DADGAD”, Bensusan brings his unmistakable voice and musical depth to the Queen’s Hall, where he will also be joined by George and Aaron Lowden for an on‑stage conversation exploring the origins of his longstanding relationship with the Lowden guitar brand.

A previous recipient of the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award and winner of numerous international accolades, Bensusan’s performance promises a spellbinding beginning to the anniversary celebrations.

Audiences can also look forward to a powerful tribute to the late John Martyn, delivered by Belfast’s own Ken Haddock and his full band.

Haddock – a revered songwriter, guitarist and vocalist – will delve into Martyn’s remarkable catalogue, from timeless favourites such as May You Never and Solid Air to some of the artist’s more experimental and rarely‑performed works.

With top‑flight musicians including Colm McClean on guitars and John McCullough on keyboards, this special show brings together artistry, memory and a deep love of Martyn’s musical legacy.

Also appearing at this year’s festival is the extraordinary Martin Taylor, returning with his brand‑new solo show Standards.

Described by Jeff Beck as ‘the best guitarist in the world’ and hailed by Pat Metheny as ‘one of the most awesome solo guitar players in history,’ the multi‑award‑winning fingerstyle virtuoso brings an evening dedicated to the golden age of jazz.

Another previous recipient of the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Taylor’s performance promises breathtaking musicianship, warm storytelling and an intimate journey through the timeless classics that shaped his remarkable six‑decade career.

Supported by Andrew Toman, this will be a standout night for jazz lovers and newcomers alike.

Closing the festival at the Queen’s Hall in electrifying style, Ricky Warwick & The Fighting Hearts bring a raw, heartfelt and hard‑hitting rock performance back to Warwick’s hometown.

Best known for his work with The Almighty, Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy, Warwick remains one of British rock’s most enduring voices. Fresh from the success of his critically acclaimed 2025 album Blood Ties, he returns to Newtownards with a full band line‑up and a set that blends grit, melody and deeply personal storytelling. 

“It’s always extra special for me to play my hometown,” he said. “I’m delighted to bring The Fighting Hearts to the 30th anniversary festival.”

Fans can also look forward to performances by Andy McKee, David Browne Murray, Matthew McAllister with the Classical Guitar Society of Northern Ireland, The Frank Carbery Blues Band, a series of Free Fringe Events and so much more!

The Luthier’s Tale, a special exhibition at Ards Arts Centre will explore the artistry of guitar building, honouring the makers of Lowden and Avalon through a behind-the-scenes look at their craft.

This event is created to mark 30 years of the Ards International Guitar Festival, recognising Newtownards guitar-making heritage.

The Ards International Guitar Festival runs from 15–19 April. Tickets and full programme details are available at:

www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk

Ardglass Walk Raises £4771 For Action Cancer

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Ardglass Walk Raises £4771 For Action Cancer

Ardglass St Stephen’s Day Walk Raises £4,771 for Action Cancer’s Breast Screening Service

• Action Cancer, Supporting Free Breast Screening for Local Women.

Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity, is delighted to announce that the annual St Stephen’s Day Walk in Ardglass has raised an outstanding £4,771 in support of its Breast Screening Programme.

The funds raised will provide 39 free mammograms for local women aged 40–49 and 70+, helping to detect breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.

These age groups are not routinely screened by the NHS. Community fundraising initiatives such as the St Stephen’s Day Walk are therefore vital in ensuring continued access to this life-saving service.

The St Stephen’s Day Walk has become a much-loved tradition in Ardglass. First established by local businessman Comgall Milligan as a way to bring the community together after Christmas and supporting an important health charity, the event has grown year on year.

The tradition was carried forward by Paul O’Shea before the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic, with Sean Laird proudly taking up the mantle in recent years.

Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity, is delighted to announce that the annual St Stephen’s Day Walk in Ardglass has raised an outstanding £4,771 in support of its Breast Screening Programme. Pictured (l-r) are Lisa McClenaghan, Action Cancer’s Communications and Breast Friends Campaign Manager; fundraiser and organiser Sean Laird; Comgall Milligan, who first established the annual St Stephen’s Day Walk; and Barry Gilliland, owner of The Old Commercial Bar, Ardglass.

This year’s walk once again attracted a fantastic turnout, with families, friends and neighbours completing the familiar route around the village. Volunteer marshals ensured the safety of all participants, while the warm welcome at The Old Commercial Bar offered the perfect opportunity for people to reconnect and reflect on the year gone by.

Local fundraiser and organiser Sean Laird said: “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who came out and supported the walk, which I’m delighted to say has been our most successful to date.

“It has become a day when we remember loved ones, celebrate our community, and raise money for a cause that makes a real difference.

CHECK OUT SEAN’S VIDEO OF THE 2025 St STEPHEN’S DAY WALK HERE

“Our community has felt the devastating impact of breast cancer in recent years, so supporting Action Cancer’s unique breast screening service felt like the perfect fit.

“Knowing that the funds raised could help detect breast cancer early – and potentially save the life of a local mother, sister, aunt, cousin or friend – means so much to us all.”

The money raised will directly support Action Cancer’s Breast Screening Programme, which provides 8,000 free mammograms each year at Action Cancer House in Belfast and via the Big Bus mobile unit, which travels to 175 locations annually throughout Northern Ireland.

The breast screening service is FREE to the user but each appointment costs the charity £120. 

Supporters get set to start their annual St Stephen’s Day Walk 2025 in Ardglass in support of Action Cancer.
(Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

The charity’s Breast Friends campaign aims to raise £30,000 each year towards this service by encouraging individuals, community groups and workplaces to host their own fundraising events.

Lisa McClenaghan, Action Cancer’s Communications and Breast Friends Campaign Manager, praised the community’s dedication and said: “The Ardglass walk is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when people come together.

“Sean, his family, friends and everyone involved should be incredibly proud.

“We are so grateful for their hard work and commitment to this special St Stephen’s Day tradition.

“When it comes to breast cancer, early detection saves lives. The support shown by the Ardglass community will make a real and lasting difference to local women all across Northern Ireland.”

Action Cancer’s breast screening service receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations. Community events like the St Stephen’s Day Walk play a crucial role in sustaining this vital work.

For more information on Action Cancer’s Breast Screening Programme, visit: www.actioncancer.org.

To learn more about hosting your own Breast Friends fundraiser, contact:

[email protected] or call 028 9080 3361.

CHECK OUT SEAN’S VIDEO OF THE 2025 St STEPHEN’S DAY WALK HERE

Two Trainee Planners For NMD Council

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Two Trainee Planners For NMD Council

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Welcomes Two Trainee Planners

Newry Mourne and Down District Council has welcomed two new Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Planning trainees.

Conail Holden and Jack Green have secured a unique opportunity to earn while they learn and gain hands-on experience in local government with the Council, while studying for a recognised qualification.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council recently teamed up with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Belfast City Council, Belfast Metropolitan College and the Department for Infrastructure, to launch a recruitment campaign aimed at attracting future talent into the planning sector.

Conail and Jack are among 11 new trainee planners who have been recruited to work across the councils involved and the Department for Infrastructure, in the HLA programme which was developed as a response to the challenges faced in recruiting and retaining planning staff.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson welcomes two new Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Planning trainees Conail Holden and Jack Green (front row). Back row (l-r): Marina Hughes, HR and OD Manager; David Watson, Senior Planning Officer; Clare Diamond HR Business Partner; Conor Mallon, Director of Economy Regeneration and Tourism; Brenda Ferguson, Senior Planning Officer and Jonathan McGilly, Assistant Director Regeneration Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

It aims to strengthen local skills, attract new professionals and create future leaders in the planning sector.

Designed to give participants the best of both worlds: a full salary while studying for a foundation degree, with no tuition fees and no student debt, the programme provides the apprentices with the opportunity to learn directly from experienced planning professionals within their council’s Planning Team, gaining invaluable real-world experience in how places and communities are shaped.

At the same time, the apprentices will complete an FdSc in Property, Housing and Planning at Belfast Metropolitan College, with an opportunity for progression to Ulster University’s BSc in Planning, Regeneration and Development.

Department for Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, recently welcomed the 11 new trainee planners to Belfast Met as they embark on the first term of their programme and said, “Planners bring enormous benefits to communities, the environment, the economy, to government and to everyday life.

“This Trainee Planner Programme will provide our new planning trainees with a great opportunity to work towards a qualification and a career that will allow them to play a key role in how the environment in which we live and work, is shaped for future generations.

“This is the first time since the reform of planning in 2015 that staff have been appointed to the trainee planner grade.

“It is just one of a number of positive steps that I am taking to address issues with recruitment and retention in the [planning] system and reflects my own commitment to improving the planning system, not only for the wider public, but also to support the health and wellbeing of those staff already working in the system.” 

Minister Kimmins congratulated the new recruits and wished them every success as they embark on their new career paths through the comprehensive programme.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “The HLA programme provides a pathway for the planners of the future and I am delighted to welcome Conail and Jack.

“They will be working alongside our dedicated team of planners and be a part of helping shape the future of the district. It is an exciting opportunity for them and the Council.”

Chris Corken, Head of School of Science, Engineering & Construction at Belfast Metropolitan College said: “Belfast Met is delighted to play a central role in this innovative Trainee Planner Programme. T

“This initiative reflects exactly what can be achieved through genuine collaboration between the Department for Infrastructure, local councils and further education.

“By investing in new talent, we are strengthening the future of the planning profession and supporting the wider construction and built environment sectors. I commend the Minister for her leadership and commitment to ensuring our trainees have the opportunity, skills and confidence to shape the places and communities of tomorrow.”

 

Minister Launches Digital Safety Online Course

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Minister Launches Digital Safety Online Course
Pictured (l-r) Calum McArthur, Teacher and Safer Schools Coordinator, Colin Stitt, INEQUE Safeguarding Ltd, Natlie Brennan, INEQUE Safeguarding Ltd, Education Minister Paul Givan and pupils. 

Education Minister launches new digital course to help pupils stay safe online

Education Minister Paul Givan has today officially launched a new online Digital Proficiency Course aimed at educating pupils and wider school communities on keeping safe online.

Provided through the Safer Schools NI platform, the Digital Proficiency Course has been designed to provide the practical tools and knowledge to empower children and young people to stay safe online.

The course has been made freely available to all education settings, pupils and parents across Northern Ireland.

Paul Givan said: “Our children and young people are engaging daily with technology, social media, and digital platforms at increasingly younger ages, and while some of these technologies offer benefits and create opportunities, they also contain potentially harmful risks.

“It is vital that we provide our schools with the resources that can support teachers and education staff to equip children and young people with the skills to navigate the digital and online world.

“Educating and empowering school communities is key to ensure pupils know how to access support from trusted adults or to report content when it makes them feel unsafe.

“The Safer Schools Digital Proficiency Course has been developed and designed to address this need.”

The Minister added: “This new course is part of the wider response to keeping our children safe online and compliments existing advice, guidance and information on a range of safeguarding issues available on the Safer Schools platform. 

“I am delighted to launch the Digital Proficiency Course, and I would encourage all schools to register and sign up for this free initiative.”

Colin Stitt, Head of Safer Schools, INEQE Safeguarding Group said: “Decades ago, ‘Cycling Proficiency’ taught us to navigate the physical world safely; today, that ‘road’ has become digital.

“The Digital Proficiency Course is an age-appropriate, episodic video-based programme based on the five ‘Five Cs’ of online risk – Content, Contact, Conduct, Commerce, and Cyber Security.

“This certified course is free to access for parents, carers, pupils and school staff on the Safer Schools NI web and mobile app.

“The digital ‘road’ may have changed, but our collective commitment to safeguarding our children should always remain paramount.

“I urge all schools and families to use these resources to educate, empower and protect our children and young people in the digital world.” 

The Course was launched during a visit to Braniel Primary School, one of the 400 schools already pre-registered to take part in the initiative, which will go live on Safer Internet Day, marked on 10 February 2026.

Niall Manogue, Principal of Braniel Primary School said: “We’re delighted to be commencing the Digital Proficiency Course in our school.

“We expect that it will help us identify what our children know and don’t know about staying safe online and provide a structured, age-appropriate resource to help them navigate the online world.”

To register your school or learn more about the Digital Proficiency Course, visit: 

https://saferschoolsni.co.uk/digitalproficiency/

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