Newcastle Heritage Gets Lidl Green Funding

Staff Reporter
-
0
Newcastle Heritage Gets Lidl Green Funding

County Down Charity Secures Funding from Lidl’s £25,000 Green Fund

• Six sustainability- focused projects across Northern Ireland were awarded funding by Lidl’s Green Fund, with Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association selected as the winning initiative in County Down

Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association is one of six organisations awarded funding by the Lidl Northern Ireland Green Fund.

The charity – which works to protect and celebrate Newcastle’s rich heritage, while supporting wellbeing, education and community life in the town – applied for funding to open a new Repair Café.

It was awarded over £4,000 to develop the project, which they hope will reduce the amount of scrap metal and other waste going to landfill.

The Lidl Green Fund, which launched last year in partnership with Business in the Community Northern Ireland, is designed to support local initiatives addressing key environmental challenges across climate action, biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable living.

A total fund of £25,000 was awarded, with one project selected from each county across Northern Ireland.

Shona Collins, Secretary, Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association and Damian McConkey, Committee Member, are delighted a being supported by the Lidl Green Fund.

Schools, charities and community groups from across the region applied, with each winning project receiving up to £4,200 to help deliver sustainable, community-focused initiatives.

With sustainability at the heart of the project, Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association’s Repair Café is being developed in response to a growing number of local people choosing to fix broken or unused items rather than buy new ones.

Speaking about their success, Shona Collins from Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association said: “The funding from Lidl Northern Ireland’s Green Fund will allow us to realise our goal of opening a Repair Café, which will benefit the local community by saving people money, as well as reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.

“Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association is committed to developing the town as a sustainable place to live and visit, and this project is just one of many that we hope will help to achieve this.”

Elaine O’Connor, Head of Sustainability at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland said: “The Lidl Green Fund was launched to support sustainable, local projects that aim to tackle key environmental challenges across climate and biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable living, for the benefit of towns and villages throughout Northern Ireland.

“As a responsible retailer, and leader in sustainability, we have a responsibility to educate and support our customers and the communities in which we operate to lead more sustainable lives.

“We are excited to see how each of our winners across Northern Ireland use the funding to create a greener future”.

The six regional winning projects are:

  1. Down | Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association: Repair Café
  2. Armagh | Maralin Village Primary School: Outdoor Sensory Garden
  3. Antrim | Ashton Community Trust: Community Garden
  4. Derry~Londonderry | St Patrick’s & St Joseph’s Primary School: Biodiversity Trail
  5. Fermanagh | Lisnaskea Emmetts GAC: Nature Walk Trail
  6. Tyrone | St. Mary’s Primary School: Polytunnel

The Lidl Northern Ireland Green Fund will reopen for applications in Spring 2026, with the aim to support more sustainability projects across the region. Named Sustainable Retail Business of the Year at the 2024 Business Eye Awards, the Green Fund reflects Lidl’s its ongoing commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility, creating a greener future for all.

For more information, or to apply, please visit:

lidl-ni.co.uk/greenfund

Call For Better Approach To Portferry Road

Staff Reporter
-
0
Call For Better Approach To Portferry Road

More coordinated storm preparedness response needed on Portaferry Road is crucial says Armstrong ahead of Assembly debate

Speaking ahead of her Stormont adjournment debate today (3 Feb), Alliance Strangford MLA Kellie Armstrong has raised concerns around the impact of storms on the Portaferry Road and called for a more coordinated response to future extreme weather events.

Ms Armstrong has said: “The Portaferry Road is a lifeline for the Ards Peninsula. Thousands rely on it daily, from commuters to schoolchildren, to carers and local businesses.

“This vital route is uniquely vulnerable when storms coincide with high tides.

Strangford Alliance MLA Kelly Armstrong has said that there is too much party politicking about climate change and the users of the A20 from Portaferry to Newtownards are at risk.

“Recent storms have once again exposed the fragility of this road and the gaps in our response systems.

“Take Storm Bram, for example, which saw a school bus travelling along the A20 become engulfed by waves. This was entirely avoidable.

“We are clearly living with the consequences of climate change that put pressure on our coastal infrastructure, yet the Executive has still not been able to agree the third Climate Change Adaptation Programme due to DUP party political blocking and delay.

“That delay has real consequences for the communities who rely on roads like the A20.

“We must now have clarity from the Department for Infrastructure on three key points.

“Firstly, what proactive system is in place to ensure that the A20 is closed before conditions become dangerous?

“Secondly, how can communication between relevant agencies, including the PSNI, schools, and local media, be improved and better coordinated.

“And thirdly, what contingency plans exist for signposting the internal Peninsula route as a safe alternative?

“This is an issue of not just infrastructure, but public safety, community confidence, and the basic expectation that government agencies work together when lives are at risk.

“The people of the Ards Peninsula deserve better than uncertainty and party politicking when their safety is on the line.”

Clarke Welcomes Works At Harbour Site

Staff Reporter
-
0
Clarke Welcomes Works At Harbour Site

Work has started on the 1843 Fishing Disaster Garden of Reflection

Mourne’s Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has warmly welcomed the commencement of works on the 1843 Newcastle Fishing Disaster Garden of reflection, located at the South Promenade, Newcastle.

The memorial will honour the memory of the 73 fishermen who tragically lost their lives on 13 January 1843, in what remains the greatest maritime disaster to impact our local coastal communities.

Councillor Clarke said the beginning of construction is a deeply significant and emotional moment for the community, offering a place of reflection not only for those lost in 1843, but for all who have lost their lives at sea along our coastline, and for the families and dependents who were left to endure profound hardship and loss.

Cllr Willie Clarke has welcomed work commencing at Newcastle Harbour for a memorial garden for the 1843 fishing disaster that claimed the lives of local fishermen.

“This memorial garden is about remembrance, respect and compassion,” said Cllr Clarke. “It recognises the immense sacrifice made by those men, the dangers faced daily by fishing communities, and the enduring pain carried by families who lost loved ones at sea.”

Cllr Clarke recalled that in 2013, he ensured that Down District Council erected an interpretive plaque to mark the 170th anniversary of the disaster, commemorating the 73 lives lost in Newcastle, Annalong and across Mourne. He added: “It was always my intention to continue pursuing a more permanent and fitting memorial in recognition of this tremendous loss to our community.

“In 2023, I brought a motion to Newry Mourne and Down District Council calling for the creation of a memorial garden, to honour the lives lost in the 1843 fishing disaster.

“While the process to reach the construction stage has taken three years, he expressed relief and gratitude that work has now begun. I am delighted that works have finally commenced and that we are delivering a space worthy of those who were lost.

“I would also acknowledge the importance of partnership working, highlighting collaboration between the Council, the Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association, and the local community.

“This memorial garden will stand as a place of quiet reflection, honouring the 73 men lost in 1843 and the many others who have perished at sea from this locality.

“It will also recognise the resilience of the families and communities who carried on through immense hardship.

“The memorial garden will serve as a lasting tribute to Newcastle’s maritime heritage, ensuring that those lost are never forgotten and that future generations understand the human cost of life at sea.”

Local Residents Discover Hidden Gems

Staff Reporter
-
0
Local Residents Discover Hidden Gems

Local Residents In Newry Mourne And Down Are Invited to Discover Hidden Gems At Home

Local residents are invited to rediscover the exceptional experiences on their own doorstep at Newry Mourne and Down District Council’s Hidden Gemsat Home event, a dedicated tourism showcase taking place on :

Saturday 14 March 2026, from 12noon to 4.30pm, at Down County Museum.

Designed to inspire people across the district to explore and support local tourism, Hidden Gems at Home celebrates the people, places and lesser-known experiences that make Mourne Gullion Strangford so special.

Whether planning a staycation, seeking a new outdoor adventure, or simply looking for fresh ideas close to home, visitors can enjoy a welcoming day out and meet a wide range of local tourism providers.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson (NMDDC), Councillor Philip Campbell is photographed with L-R (back) Stephen Magorrian, Denvirs of Downpatrick; Michelle Boyle, Head of Tourism Product Development and Visitor Experience NMDDC; Orla Hayes, Canal Court Hotel and Amanda Smyth, Assistant Director – Economy, Growth & Tourism NMDDC.

The showcase will highlight the district’s diverse tourism offering, including outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink producers, accommodation providers and wellness experiences.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said, “Hidden Gems at Home forms part of the Council’s wider tourism marketing programme.

“It is about celebrating the incredible tourism experiences available right across our district. From outdoor adventures in dramatic landscapes to heritage, culture and local food, this event brings together the people and places that define Mourne Gullion Strangford.”

The event also brings the Council’s refreshed tourism brand to life and will see the new branding officially launched to the public. Shaped through local engagement, the brand positions Mourne Gullion Strangford as a distinctive geographic destination, underpinned by its sub brand, Ireland’s True Nature as its unifying essence.

It reflects the district’s three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough & Lecale, while supporting its UNESCO Global Geopark designation and reinforcing a strong, unified destination identity.

Speaking about the redefined tourism branding, Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said: “Our refreshed branding showcases the area’s breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, welcoming communities and memorable experiences.

“Hidden Gems atHome brings this brand to life, showcasing the experiences, stories and local businesses that make our area so special, and inspiring residents to explore and take pride in what’s right on their doorstep.”

NMD Council Agrees 2.8% Rates Increase

Staff Reporter
-
0
NMD Council Agrees 2.8% Rates Increase

District Rate 2026/2027 Agreed for Newry Mourne and Down

Newry Mourne and Down District Council has struck a new district rate of 2.8%.

At the Council meeting on Monday 2 February 2026, a new domestic rate of 0.4999 pence for 2026/2027 was agreed. The new Non-Domestic Rate for 2026/27 is 31.0337 which represents an increase of 2.8%.

For a property valued at £133,000, the 2.8% increase would lead to an annual rise of £18.11 per year or £1.51 per month, allowing the Council to continue providing the services it is responsible for, while investing in projects across the district to stimulate growth and investment, boost the economy and create new job opportunities.

The total amount of rates residents pay is made up of the District Rate (which is agreed by the Council), and the Regional Rate, set by the Northern Ireland Executive.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell said: “The district rate not only pays for services, but helps us invest for the future.

“Our investment is a vote of confidence in the district, its people and future potential, paving the way for new opportunities. We are going to invest in new sports and leisure facilities, develop exciting new recreational amenities and assist with the economic regeneration of our town centres.”

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Cllr Philip Campbell has welcomed the new rate struck at tonight’s council meeting of Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

The Council Chairperson said an exciting year lies ahead adding: “We are investing £7.4m in a new Warrenpoint health and wellbeing hub and have appointed an Integrated Consultancy Team for the redevelopment of the Newcastle Centre, with community engagement due to take place over the coming months for this highly significant facility in the heart of the resort,” said Councillor Campbell.

“At Castlewellan Forest Park, £5.5 million is being invested by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Council on a major revitalisation project. Following recent consultation events, we are also progressing plans to create an exciting and unique Treetop Walk at the park.

“In Downpatrick, work is continuing to revitalise the town centre with the redevelopment of the former police station in Irish Street and a number of empty adjacent buildings, while a public realm scheme is set to revitalise Church Street and DeCourcy Place, with new high-quality paving, landscaping, improved street lighting and utility upgrades,” he said.

“One million pounds has been earmarked to assist with new hotel development, with plans advancing for three new Greenways along the Newry Canal Towpath route from Newry City to Poyntzpass and others linking Downpatrick and Ardglass and the Ballynahinch Spur between Saintfield and Ballynahinch,” Cllr Campbell continued.

“Additionally, we are continuing to work with cross border partners on the Narrow Water Bridge plans for Carlingford Lough, which would enhance our district’s rich tourism offering.”

Cllr Campbell said the Council’s commitment to developing its towns and villages continued.

“There are also plans to upgrade CCTV systems in a number of towns and assist owners of vacant and derelict buildings to redevelop them, paving the way for new investment and job creation opportunities across the district.”

Turning to the district’s leisure and community facilities, Cllr Campbell said, “Work is continuing on the refurbishment of Kilkeel Leisure Centre to enhance and modernise the facility for users, we are continuing to progress Camlough Lake, a key recreational facility providing access to a range of water-based activities, and at Jennings Park in Newry we are looking forward to advancing plans for a new 3G pitch.

“We are partnering with St Mark’s High School in Warrenpoint to provide a new community multi-sports hub, with a major play park improvement scheme continuing across the district.”

Reinforcing its commitment to community facilities for residents, Councillor Campbell said the Council is continuing to invest across the district. One of the latest schemes is upgrading Annalong Community Centre, with the work including the installation of a new heating system.

The Council Chairperson said the Newry City Centre Regeneration Project is entering the delivery phase, with building works on course to begin later this year for the Theatre and Conference Centre and Newry City Park.

Councillor Campbell said £3.5 million of a £4.7 million leisure VAT rebate from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will be shared across the Council’s seven District Electoral Areas to allow them to expand the excellent work they carry out across their respective communities.

He continued: “We have also maintained financial support for external bodies via Service Level Agreements and have not reduced our continuing financial assistance for communities and organisations across the district.

“Our combined investment in service delivery and future development represents a strong vote of confidence in the district.

“Work has already been completed on a number of exciting projects with more to come, helping lay the foundations for a vibrant district where people want to live and work.

“We are committed to build for the present and the future, delivering benefits, creating new employment opportunities, enhancing skills development and ensuring economic resilience.”

The Council Chairperson added: “It’s essential that we keep moving forward with our plans, secure new investment, regenerate our towns, care for our environment and support our local businesses and tourism sectors to help make the district a better place for everyone.

“We will continue to focus on securing new investment and job opportunities and maintain high quality service delivery.”

The following figures are representative for the district rate increase only.

When the ratepayer receives their Rates Bill from LPS it will include the Regional Rate which has not yet been disclosed by the NI Secretary of State.

Rate IncreaseCapital Value of DwellingDomestic Rate (pence)Average Annual IncreaseAverage Monthly Increase
2.8%£133,000*0.4999£18.11£1.51

*The monetary impact on Households, assuming the average capital value of a dwelling in NMDDC district amounting to £133,000 (figures provided by LPS, November 2022).

Sports Museum In NI Could Be A Winner

Jim Masson
-
0
Sports Museum In NI Could Be A Winner

NI sports museum being discussed at the Assembly brought forward by Alan Chambers MLA

Across many sports including soccer, rugby, golf, athletics, gaelic sports, horse racing and equestrian sports martial arts, motor sports, swimming, snooker, gymnastics and indeed special olympics are other sporting areas, there are many household names that could grace a Northern Ireland sports’ museum.

Ulster Unionist MLA Alan Chambers is bringing forward a motion to the Assembly today calling on the Ministers for Economy and Communities to establish a working group, comprised of key sporting stakeholders to explore the feasibility and appetite for a Northern Ireland sporting museum.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Alan Chambers MLA said: “Northern Ireland is long overdue a sporting museum, one that champions our sporting heroes and medallists over the years and in the years to come.

The proposal to examine the viability of a sports’ museum for Northern Ireland has been brought to the Assembly by UUP MLA Alan Chambers for consideration. (Ai generated image – Jim Masson/DownNews©).

“That is why I’m bringing forward a motion calling on the Ministers for Economy and Communities to establish a working group, comprised of key sporting stakeholders, to explore the feasibility and appetite for such a museum.

“It is intended to add support to the efforts of Dame Mary Peters and others who have worked for many years to establish such a facility. It is a long‑held passion that I share with them.

“I recall the doubts expressed by many about the sustainability of the Titanic Centre being built in Belfast, and the requirement for 290,000 annual visitors for it to break even.

“From the moment it opened its doors in 2012, attendance figures have grown year on year, and the figure for 2024 was an amazing 900,000 visitors.

“I firmly believe that the rich sporting history we have in Northern Ireland will ensure that a sports museum becomes a major tourist attraction, with the added value of creating employment.

“The efforts of all our sporting icons, including our para‑athletes, have enhanced the worldwide reputation of where we call home. Their successes have given our population a major lift in spirit when we sometimes needed it most.

“A museum that honours their achievements would be a lasting legacy to our local sporting heroes and would serve to motivate future generations to take up a sport and perhaps emulate our champions.

“In the words of that popular movie, Field of Dreams, ‘Build it and they will come.”

RSV Vax On Way For Older Adults

Staff Reporter
-
0
RSV Vax On Way For Older Adults

Older adults in NI to be offered vaccination against RSV

The Department of Health has approved plans to expand the vaccination programme to protect more people against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and its complications.

From April, all adults over 80 years of age will be eligible for the RSV vaccination. Vaccinations will also be offered to all residents of care homes for older adults, starting later this month. This is an expansion of the RSV programme for older adults launched in 2024, which was initially available to those aged 75 to 79 years of age. 

This is a one-off vaccination that does not need to be repeated each year. The decision follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) in June 2025, which recommended expanding the RSV vaccination programme.

Chief Medical Officer Michael McBride pictured getting his double flu/Covid jab in 2022. He recommends getting the one-off vaccination for RSV in you are an elderly person.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “RSV is a common virus which usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, we know that in older adults, it can cause severe complications which can lead to hospitalisation, adding pressure to our already stretched Health and Social Care system.

“I would encourage all those eligible, to avail of the vaccination when offered in order to help protect yourself from illness.

“I have approved the expansion of the RSV vaccination programme, which builds on the adult programme in place since 2024.  There is also a maternal RSV vaccination programme available for all pregnant women aimed at protecting their newborn babies until they are old enough to receive the vaccine.”

Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride said: “RSV has the potential to lead to serious health complications, particularly in older people who are more likely to have underlying chronic health conditions, such as lung and heart disorders.

“Vaccination programmes are an essential public health measure that can help protect the most vulnerable members of our society.

“Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, and I would urge anyone who is eligible for the RSV vaccination to take it.

“The RSV vaccine for older adults and residents of care homes for older adults can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, and many eligible individuals are likely to be offered both vaccines at the same time during April, May and June this year. 

“If older people are not vaccinated, quite simple, they are not protected.”

Celtic Bhoys Win In Clarence Round 2 Thriller

Jim Masson
-
0
Celtic Bhoys Win In Clarence Round 2 Thriller

Celtic Bhoys topple Crumlin Utd in round two of Clarence Cup

The NAFL,

All Sport Insurance Ireland Clarence Cup Round 2,

Venue: Ballyhornan 3G, Saturday 31st January 2026,

Final Score: Celtic Bhoys 3 1 Crumlin Utd.

NAFL First Division side Crumlin Utd came to Ballyhornan to face Celtic Bhoys positioned in Division 2B in Round Two of the Clarence Cup, and on paper the match looked one-sided writes Jim Masson ©).

However, Celtic Bhoys proved once again to be giant killers and enjoyed a clear win over their rivals with Sean Mahon claiming two goals and Eamon Gargan the third.

The Celtic Bhoys team get some last minute advice from head coach Neill Teggart.

The home team were a number of players short in their squad including Michael Rice, Kevin Groves, Jarleth Brannigan and Gerdie Collins. Assistant coach Chris Teggart said that a key issue for the team was players involved in shift work and finding time to play on Saturday and attend training, but despite that, the squad were producing results and are eyeing the 2A league table again this season.

The game got off to a brisk pace on a cold day at Ballyhornan with both teams testing each others defences. Crumlin started well hoping for an early goal but Celtic had other plans. Nathan Curran was solid in the nets and stopped a couple of early efforts by the visitors.

Eamon Gargan, left, scored a second half goal for Celtic Bhoys against Crumlin Utd.

On 15 minutes, McMahon made an excellently-timed cross to Jordan Curran whose shot shaved the top bar.

Gradually Celtic started to get an upper hand and pressed into the Crumlin half more.

Celtic defender Eamon Gargan was making occasional breaks forward into the Crumlin back line. Then Crumlin fought back once more but the Celtic defence were working hard and hold Crumlin back.

Crumlin’s Daire McMenamin was pressing early and had a couple of shots at goal, one a low volley but keeper Nathan Curran held it well. Johnnie Bell too was in form and challenging the Crumlin defence early on.

Double scorer Sean McMahon, left, threads the ball to his from line past the Crumlin Utd defenders.

Again Crumlin pressed and Matthew Donnelly volleyed on target but keeper Curran did well to get the ball under control.

Then on 34 minutes Sean McMahon scored from just outside the Crumlin box with a low volley to the left hand post putting Celtic a goal ahead, giving them some comfort room to settle into the game.

Then just on the half-time whistle Eamonn Gargan scored increasing the Celtic the lead once again at a crucial psychological juncture. Gargan headed the ball in from a corner kick just outside the 6-yard box.

Jay Gibney crossed to Connaill Kerr attacking on the left.

The second half started and again play was competitive with both sides looking for an edge.

The Celtic bench made some important substitutions to refresh the team. Jordan Curran had received a yellow card and was replaced by Ryan Doran. Then at 60 minutes Bell came off and Peter Casey stepped into the action. And Patrick Ferris came on replacing Niall Morrison.

Celtic were holding on to their 2-0 lead well and in the final throes of the game, Crumlin pressed hard and eventually pulled off a goal by Ryan Lambe.

Midfielder Niall Morrison in action against Crumlin Utd.

But Crumlin had no choice but to throw everything forward in the closing phase of the game and in doing so left Sean McMahon to score his second goal just before the final whistle at 90+4 minutes. Positioned in the Crumlin box, McMahon unleashed a shot which came off a defender and goalkeeper to put Celtic clearly into round 3.

This was a good performance by Celtic Bhoys against Crumlin Utd, but going into Round 3 the competition will be tougher. Still in the running into round 3 are NAFL first division teams such as Kilmore Rec, Rosario, Dunmurry YM, Derriaghy CC and Ards Rangers. Drumaness bowed out but have their focus on their Glentoran match this coming Saturday.

Nathan Curran had a good game agaionst Crumlin United making some excellent saves.
The Crumlin Utd team.

Celtic Bhoys: 1 Nathan Curran (GK) 2 Shaun Megahey 3 Eamon Gargan 4 Blaine Connolly 5 Jordan Deegans 6 Niall Morrison 7 Jordan Curran 8 Johnnie Bell 9 Jay Gibney 10 Sean McMahon 11 Conaill Kerr. Subs: 12 Patrick Ferris 14 Ryan Doran 15 Peter Casey.

Crumlin Utd: 1 Ruairi Murray 2 Ryan Gorman 3 Liam Cullen 4 Gerald Mallon (C) 5 Niall Burns 6 Eoin Gough 7 Matthew Donnelly 8 Conal Delaney 9 Ryan Lambe 10 Daire McMenamin 11 Odhran Ferry. Subs: 12 Niall Crawford 14 Christopher Campbell 15 Luke Delaney.

Downpatrick Chess Club Continues To Grow

Jim Masson
-
0
Downpatrick Chess Club Continues To Grow

Downpatrick Chess Club Continues To Thrive With Around 200 Active Members

In the Downpatrick area, chess is a very popular past-time and the Downpatrick Chess Club has around 200 young and adult members who love to play the game under competition rules.

The game of chess originated in India in the 6th century and was called ‘chaturanga’ which referred to the four divisions of the army. These were the infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots. It started as a dice game and evolved into a game of strategy between two players.

Eventually it spread to Persia where it further modified and spread across the Arab world. In the more modern era it moved into Europe and became the game many people enjoy playing today with 32 pieces on a 64-black and quite squared chess board.

For many this is the ultimate strategy game revolving around raw thinking.

Áine Doxey is secratery of the Downpatrick Chess Club and her family are very much involved in it. She said: “We are running a chess competition on in St Colmcille’s Primary School in Downpatrick on March 21st 2026. . The schools have been very supportive of our club and we tend to rotate round the halls each month.

“Some children have joined at 4-years old. But the key point is that they need to be able to hold their attention for 20 minutes which can be quite difficult for some to begin with. Altogether we have around 200 regular players which shows the level of interest in the game. And it’s growing.

“We like to see the young ones having fun and enjoying their chess when they are at the club.

“We actually go out into schools and teach chess in Downpatrick and Crossgar. Many children love it. They develop friendships and learn respect. At the end of each match players shake hands.

“Our club is family oriented and we welcome new members. The club started on the back of the Covid lockdown. My husband Mark started teaching ouyr son Thomas and it all just took off from there.

Two of our adult members act as chess arbiters (referees) and clubs can only hold events if the have arbiters qulaified through FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs). This is the official international governing body for chess based in Switzerland which was established in 1924.

Áine explained that players fall into four categories. The top flight players are called ‘Kings’, and the ‘Queens are the girls sections. The ‘Knights are players who are very improved, and the ‘Bishops’ are the novices who are less experienced.

“In a competition we therefore have a first and second – a winner and runner-up – for each category, and whether they are adult or younger members, respect is always shown through the game and with the handshake at the end and this way players grow in confidence.

“We were fortunate to get a National Lottery Community Fund grant and purchased chess sets, boards, clocks etc so we have the necessary equipment and our insurance is also covered.

“I act as the child protection office and we are fully compliant.

“We work with our supporters and sponsors closely. McDonalds Downpatrick has been great and the kids get a free ice-cream while the parents have a coffee at their McChess sessions. So it’s all a win-win situation.

“On Saturday afternoon each week we meet in a room upstairs in the St Patrick Centre which is free courtesy of the management.

“The ASDA Foundation has been supportive too.

“And we meet in Denvir’s Hotel every other Wednesday evening and we have a comfortable room there also courtesy of the owners. People have been so generous and we are very grateful for all these gestures of support.

“We have some excellent players in the club who have played in FIDE tournaments and gained FIDE ratings in classical, rapid and blitz formats. For example, Paul Reaney has a standard rating of 1818 and a rapid rate of 1703.

“And Jonathan Boyd is a standard 1770 and rapid 1637. Also Finn Davey is a standard 1478 and rapid 1534 while Dermot Maquire is a standard 1669 and a rapid 1557.

“We also have some very young talented players coming through who still have to be assessed.

“We would dearly love to get chess out into the open air with large chess pieces with a and a couple of gazebos so people can enjoy a game when the weather is warmer. That is something we are looking at at the minute.

“Chess is a great game. It helps lower children’s use of mobile phones, tablets and computers and helps develop some thinking critical and social skills building confidence along the way.”

After chatting to ÁINE, I discovered that the Downpatrick Chess Club is actually FREE to members which is astonishing. To date the club has existed on the tremendous goodwill of its patrons.

“So far we have managed to be sustainable and that is great. On behalf of the club I’d just like to thank everyone who has helped us on our chess journey so far. We really appreciate these gestures of support.”

Check out the Downpatrick Chess Club news here.

And on Facebook at:

Mathison Meets Heads At Schools’ Conference

Staff Reporter
-
0
Mathison Meets Heads At Schools’ Conference

Mathison Meets Local School Leaders at South Eastern Secondary Heads Association Conference in Newcastle

Alliance MLA Nick Mathison has met with school leaders from across the South Eastern area today at the South Eastern Secondary Heads Association Conference in Newcastle, where he addressed delegates on the challenges facing local education.

Alliance MLA Nick Mathison addresses secondary school principals at a conference in Newcastle.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Mathison said: “I am delighted to have been invited to speak to the principals today in Newcastle.

“Our school leaders are carrying enormous responsibilities, and it is clear they are operating under unprecedented pressure.

“School remain chronically underfunded, building maintenance needs continue to grow, workloads are intensifying, and the rising complexity of Special Educational Needs is stretching resources further still.

“All of this is happening alongside significant changes to curriculum and assessment frameworks.

“I am committed to engaging with local educators, ensuring their experiences and expertise shape the discussions and decisions that affect them.

“Our principals and teachers deserve support, certainty, and investment, and I will continue to advocate for that at every opportunity.”

Mr Mathison said he welcomed the opportunity to listen directly to school leaders and will be following up on specific issues raised during the conference.

1...565758...1,877Page 57 of 1,877