Heavy rainfall over a prolonged period brings the risk of flooding in Downpatrick, but don’t panic just yet
Dunleath Park is badly flooded as the Quoile waters back up following storms and heavy rain. However, residents at the Hunters Mill estate are very concerned about what could happen over the next few days if the water continues to rise.
Liam Quinn, Chair of the Hunters Mill Community Association has been watching as the water encroaches the estate.
“Residents in Russell Park, Cathedral View and Hunters Mill are affected by this constant flooding.
He said: “On Wednesday morning from 4.30am there was a marked increase in the water levels in Dunleath Park showing that the flood water was NOT draining away.
“The ground is just saturated and it will take some time for the Council playing pitches to be operational again.
“This is all pretty much a health and safety scenario. At its deepest, the water is around eight feet deep in Dunleath Park. It would just take a child to slip off a makeshift raft without a lifebelt to drown. This is a clear danger to anyone who falls into the water.
“And last time it flloded in early Novermebr 2023, a big sewer pipe at the edge of the estate overflowed contaminating the area. Pressure from within the sewer forced its contents up. It was appalling.
Walking paths in Dunleath Park adjacent to the Hunters Mill estate in Downpatrick that were recent laid are under flood water.
“And to add to all of this, with the floods comes the risk of vermin coming into local homes. At this time of year rats and mice do tend to seek shelter in warm places. This has happned before and it is all just a perfect storm.
“I hate to be scare-mongering but the River Quoile is absolutely full of water and it does not seem to be draining away very quickly.”
Liam explained that a few homes were affected by the 2023 flood, included the home of a disabled pensioner.
Screenshot
“If you look at the BBC weather forecasts for the next week, it is giving high winds and continuous rain. People in Hunters Mill are living on their nerves again. And there’s not even a sandbag in sight yet which would be re-assuring.
“It will be a nail-biting few days but hopefully that will be the end of it for this year.
No football this weekend lads. Dunleath Park is a sea of water.
“The Department of Infrastructure is set to release its plans for flood alleviation on the Quoile in April. Let’s hope this all moves ahead quickly and the Assembly approve the money needed to complete the job. And let’s hope this doesn’t turn into another Ballynahinch by-pass scenario and get kicked up the road.
“It will take time to complete the works on flood alleviation. The sooner the better for Downpatrick!”
The old generator house in Newcastle harbour is to be converted into a community hub says Cllr Truesdale
Alliance Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale has said she is delighted to see the lease of the old generator house extended to 33 years, subject to Departmental consent at Thursday night’s SPR Council committee.
She said: “The Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association group are an excellent example of community empowerment.
Alliance Councillor Jill Truesdale welcomes move to create a small community hun at Newcastle Harbour.
“They have gained skills, resources, and control to improve their lives and the lives of many in the area.
“Through participation, dedication and many volunteering hours they’ve built capacity as a voluntary community group to address local needs.
“This is an old generator house and it was used to power the sewage plant, plans were laid to convert it into a community hub.
“At the time of the idea it was decided to put in showers, toilets, a community multi-purpose room and a small kitchenette, and through the scale of scrap metal and the kindness of local businesses their plans are firmly coming together.”
Jill added: “Newcastle harbour and Annalong harbour are vastly under utilised resources.
“They are both in slow decline yet hold so much shared history and culture for the Mourne community.
“It has been great to see the initiative taken by a group of ordinary people to not let Newcastle Harbour decline and show how old buildings can be repurposed and utilised for good.”
Members Of The 4 Corners Festival get blessing from Pope Leo XIV in Rome
Members of a Belfast-based interfaith festival met Pope Leo XIV in Rome last week during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
The 4 Corners Festival committee, board and wider community travelled to Italy ahead of the opening of their 2026 series of events later this week.
Each year the International Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is observed by churches across the world. The week focuses on prayer and action for unity rather than division among Christian traditions.
During their meeting with Pope Leo XIV, members of the delegation introduced him to the work of the 4 Corners Festival and its commitment to peace and reconciliation in Belfast.
They presented him with the 4 Corners Festival 2026 programme along with artwork inspired by the city, and spoke about their efforts to encourage connection, understanding and hope across communities.
Pope Leo X1V met with representatives of the Belfast-based Corner Festival and he gave them a blessing. (Photo courtesy of the 4 Corners Festival.)
Pope Leo XIV offered the group a blessing and encouraged them in their work, saying: “Work all together for peace.”
The significance of the encounter and the wider Rome visit for the festival was reflected on by Father Martin Magill of St John’s Parish, Falls Road and Rev Steve Stockman of Fitzroy Presbyterian, University Street.
Father Martin said: “As well as meeting some inspirational speakers many of those who took part in our Rome visit spoke of the conversations they had with one another.
“Again and again I heard comments on the opportunity they had to build relationships and to get to know one another”.
Rev Steve Stockman explained the visit to Rome and meeting with Pope Leo XIV is a great example of the importance of the work of the 4 Corners Festival in bringing people from across the city and from a range of faith communities together.
He added: “To be able to share with Pope Leo the work of the Festival with a group of 26 people who cross our Belfast corners in faith and geography was a powerful witness on a world stage of the importance of grassroots peace building.
“Even more powerful that we were living out the Week Of Prayer For Christian Unity as we did so.”
The Rome visit comes as the 4 Corners Festival prepares to open in Belfast, running from 30 January to 8 February with the theme of ‘Journey’. The annual festival, which has been running for 14 years, was conceived as a way to inspire people from across Belfast to transform the city for the peace and wellbeing of all.
The festival encourages people to step beyond the physical and psychological corners of the city through events that bring new places, new perspectives and new connections.
The delegation travelling to Rome reflected the diversity that underpins the festival. Participants came from a range of Christian denominations and backgrounds, with different spiritual journeys and experiences, united by a shared commitment to listening, learning and continuing the journey together.
While in Rome, the delegation was welcomed at the Irish Embassy and met both the Irish and British Ambassadors to the Holy See.
Discussions centred on unity, shared stories and working together across differences, including reflections on peacebuilding experiences in a global context, including time spent in South Sudan.
Another highlight of the visit was a meeting with Irish priest Fr Martin Browne OSB, from the Dicastery for the Promotion of Christian Unity. During the meeting, Fr Browne shared his experience of ecumenical work in Rome and his involvement in King Charles’ recent visit to the Vatican, where the King prayed with Pope Leo XIV.
Fr Browne also arranged for the delegation to attend ecumenical Vespers with Pope Leo XIV at St Paul’s Outside the Walls.
Speaking about how the experience in Rome connects to the festival’s ongoing work in Belfast and its focus on reconciliation, Shannon Goodwin, committee member of the festival, said: “Being in Rome during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was a powerful reminder that the work we do in Belfast is part of a much bigger journey.
“Meeting Pope Leo and sharing the story of the 4 Corners Festival affirmed the importance of creating spaces where people can listen deeply to one another, cross boundaries and walk together with hope.
“What we experienced in Rome strengthens our commitment to continue this work of reconciliation at home, one conversation and one connection at a time.”
The 4 Corners Festival opens on 30 January with a full programme of public events across the city, concluding on Sunday 8 February.
All events are free to attend, though booking is required. Full programme details and tickets are available at:
Proposed redundancies a major blow for Newry says Hughes
Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes has called on the management of Glen Electric to change course following news that the company plans to cut 51 jobs from its Newry operation.
Newry and Armagh MP Dáire Hughes is concerned at the 51 redundancies announcement at Glen Electric.
The Newry and Armagh MP said: “These proposed redundancies are devastating news for workers in Glen Electric. Working families are already struggling and the threat of redundancy is catastrophic.
“These job losses would be a major blow for Newry. Local staff have worked hard at the Newry site for decades and deserve much better than this.
“Glen Electric was established in Newry in 1973 and has grown, thanks to the efforts of its workers, into a major and profitable international company.
“Local staff worked to facilitate the transfer of products to eastern Europe on the basis that new investment in renewable energy products would follow.
“This did not happen and management must now change course to avoid these devastating job losses.
“The company is profitable and the Newry site is viable. Every effort must be made to avoid redundancies.
“I have been speaking to workers and their representatives and we will continue to support them at this time.”
Glen Electric is an interational company, reaching out to 20 different countries with around 8000 workers providing services in low carbon solutions to heating and ventilation, flame and consumer appliances, and precision cooling.
The company is privately owned by the Naughton family. After just four years in business setting up in 1972, the company acquired the Dimplex heating brand and has grown from strength to strength.
NMDCouncil Joins forces with HSENI to Help Tackle Work-Related Ill Health
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is working alongside the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) to promote the importance of tackling major causes of work-related ill health.
The initiative, aimed at protecting workers’ health and wellbeing, is part of HSENI’s year-long Workplace Health Campaign addressing occupational diseases such as cancers, chronic lung conditions, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and work-related mental wellbeing.
It urges everyone to become aware of occupational diseases that can arise out of workplace activities if hazards are not properly controlled.
The initiative challenges all involved to find out if they have the information, they need to remove the risk or reduce workplace health risks to an acceptable level. In 2023/24, an estimated 640,000 days were lost due to work-related illnesses.
During a visit to the Downshire Civic Centre on 22 January, hosted by Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, the HSENI revealed that work-related ill health is estimated as having a societal cost to Northern Ireland of over £390 million each year, with average figures indicating that there could be over 300 deaths per year and thousands more suffering health problems due to work-related illnesses.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council and the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) have joined forces to promote the importance of tackling major causes of work-related ill health including occupational diseases such as cancers, chronic lung conditions, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and work-related mental wellbeing. Council Chairperson Philip Campbell (second right) is with (from left) HSENI Chief Executive Robert Kidd, Sinead Murphy (Director of Sustainability and Environment NMDDC) and HSENI Deputy Chief Executive Nikki Monson.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Campbell welcomed the opportunity to support the campaign and said: “highlighting that safeguarding workplace health remains a key regulatory responsibility for all employers across the council area.
“Our support for this campaign reinforces that workplace health is not solely about meeting compliance standards — it is fundamentally about valuing people.
“A healthy workforce is essential for productivity, stronger community engagement and a thriving local economy. Through this joint effort to promote the campaign across the district, we aim to foster safer, healthier working environments and reduce the risk of occupational illness.”
Chief Executive of HSENI, Robert Kidd said the Council’s support with the campaign would enable wider engagement with employers, help get the vital messages out and promote healthier and safer workplaces.
He added: “These figures tell a stark story about the impact work-related ill-health is having on our society, our workforce and our health service.
“We need to take urgent action now to ensure every workplace is one where the health risks are properly managed.
“No one should lose their life or develop ill health simply because of the job they do. Yet, it is estimated that over 300 people die each year due to work-related disease and thousands more left living with serious and debilitating health conditions, with an estimated cost of over £390 million per year to society.
“But these aren’t just statistics, they represent real people and real loss.”
Mr Kidd said the HSENI was delighted the Council has joined with the organisation to help address the problem by supporting its Workplace Health Campaign, promoting its key messages and encouraging employers to take practical steps to protect workers’ health.
He added: “Everyone deserves to return home with their health protected as well as their safety. By working collaboratively with the Council we can reach more employers, share practical guidance and support healthier, more productive workplaces.”
Key findings from HSENI’s ‘Workplace Health Statistics and Analysis for Northern Ireland 2025’ publication:
Occupational Lung Disease
* 110 deaths estimated from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) due to work in 2023
* 6,400 people estimated to have suffered from work-related COPD in 2023
* 15 Asbestosis-related deaths registered in 2022
Occupational Cancer
Average per year figures indicate:
* Around 200 deaths could be attributable to occupational cancers
* 47 deaths from Mesothelioma with the same number of deaths (47) estimated from Asbestos-related lung cancers
* 20 lung cancer deaths estimated due to exposure to Silica dust at work
* 80 other work-related cancer deaths estimated, such as bladder, lung, and other cancers, due to exposure to cancer-causing agents, for example, diesel engine exhaust emissions (15), mineral oils (15), and other (50).
Other work-related illnesses (caused or made worse by work in 2023-24):
Estimated number of cases:
* 18,000 people suffered from musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)
* 15,000 people suffered from stress, depression, or anxiety
* 4,000 people suffered from illnesses other than stress, depression, or anxiety such as skin conditions and hearing loss
Days lost:
* 640,000 days lost estimated in 2023/24 due to work-related illnesses.
The very best of rural businesses from across Northern Ireland have been shortlisted for prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards. Thousands of public nominations have been whittled down to a final twenty-four.
Last year 2025 Duffy’s in Killough won the Best Shop/Post Office category.
Customers and patrons can now take part in a public vote to support their favourites. The champions will then be announced at Stormont on 27th April.
The successful businesses will then go forward to the next round, competing against winners from across the country in the grand final. National winners will be announced 8th July, at the House of Lords.
The businesses are judged on a range of criteria, including their passion and commitment, sense of community, championing local produce, and the energy and diversity of their business.
The ‘Rural Oscars’ are now in their 19th year, and are a vital way of celebrating rural businesses that go the extra mile and support their local economy.
Duffy’s Shop in Killough won the Best Shop/Post Office category in 2025. Pictured are Thomas and Alanna Duffy with Brenda and Ailish Duffy with Gary McCartney, Director of Countryside Alliance at the awards held in The Titanic Centre. (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews).
Being nominated for the Countryside Alliance Awards can have a real impact on rural businesses. The businesses which go on to become finalists or champions will receive regional and national recognition, strengthening the reputation of their brand.
There are five categories: ‘best pub’, ‘best village shop/ post office’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best for local food a drink’ and the ‘rural enterprise award’.
It’s your chance to cast your vote for your favourite rural businesses – you can do this here. You can vote for one business in each category, and in as few or as many of the categories as you would like.
Countryside Alliance Northern Ireland Director Gary McCartney said: “Once more, we have been blown away by the number of nominations this year.
“So many amazing businesses have been sent in by the public. Every business has an important story to tell – it’s so important that they are recognised.
“The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses, and not just their produce or services.
“At this critical time for so many rural businesses, it is vital we all show our support in whatever way we can. We encourage as many people as possible to get voting.
“When you have voted, please share the link with friends and families.”
Butler Warns NI Businesses Being Squeezed from Every Angle as Business Confidence Falls
Ulster Unionist Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson Robbie Butler MLA has warned that businesses across Northern Ireland are being squeezed by weak growth, rising costs and political dysfunction, with confidence being steadily eroded by instability, planning paralysis and the growing burden of rates.
His comments follow the publication today (Wednesday 28 January 2026) of the NI Chamber and Queen’s University Belfast Quarterly Economic Survey, which shows that while 59% of firms expect their own business to grow in 2026, just 23% expect the wider Northern Ireland economy to grow.
Mr Butler said the findings strongly reflect what he has heard repeatedly through direct engagement with many business owners across Lagan Valley and beyond, whose experiences mirror pressures being felt right across the economy.
Robbie Butler MLA: concerned
He said: “Business owners are telling me the same thing again and again: that they are resilient, they’re working flat out, but the environment they’re operating in is making growth harder, riskier and, in some cases, impossible. That is not a failure of enterprise, it is a failure of the system around them.”
The survey shows that 80% of firms are trading well or reasonably, yet only 32% say they are trading well, with 13% just covering costs and 6% struggling. Nearly half of all businesses reported a slowdown in demand in Q4 2025, pointing to an economy stuck in low gear rather than moving towards recovery.
Mr Butler warned that the non-domestic rates revaluation, combined with imminent local rate-setting decisions, risks inflicting serious damage on already stretched businesses.
He added: “Businesses are being hit from every angle wages, energy, insurance, inputs and now rates. The revaluation followed by local rate setting is landing at the worst possible time. If this is handled badly, councils and ministers risk pushing viable businesses over the edge.”
He said hospitality, retail and locally rooted service businesses are particularly exposed, with knock-on consequences for jobs and town centres.
“Higher rates don’t just hit balance sheets, they reduce hours, stall investment and cost jobs. Once businesses close, they don’t simply reappear.”
He also raised serious concerns about planning paralysis, particularly in the agri-food sector, which remains one of Northern Ireland’s most important economic pillars.
Robbie Butler said: “I am hearing growing frustration from agri-food producers who fully support higher animal welfare and environmental standards, but are being strangled by a planning system that has failed to keep pace. The result is reduced productivity, stalled expansion and, in some cases, significant drops in output.”
He added that welcome animal welfare regulatory improvements have not been matched by common-sense, timely planning decisions, leaving producers trapped between rising standards and an unworkable system.
“When major food producers cannot secure planning decisions in a reasonable timeframe, the entire supply chain suffers. That is not protecting the environment or animal welfare, it is choking growth and undermining food security.”
Mr Butler said business owners are also deeply concerned by the impact of political instability, with confidence being damaged by what many describe as performative politics.
“There is a consistent and growing message from businesses that political instability, sham fights and point-scoring are actively harming confidence. Many have lost faith in parties who put narrow party interest ahead of Northern Ireland’s economic well being.”
He warned that this lack of confidence is now feeding directly into decisions on investment and recruitment.
“When politics looks chaotic and unserious, businesses pause. When they pause, growth stalls.”
Mr Butler concluded by calling for an end to day-to-day trench warfare politics and urgent agreement on a credible multi-year budget.
“Northern Ireland cannot be governed on a ‘battle-a-day’ basis. Businesses and constituents are sick of it. What is needed now is stability, long-term thinking and agreement on a multi-year budget that champions beneficial planning, investment and reform.
“Without that, we risk locking ourselves into permanent low growth and that would be a profound failure of leadership.”
‘Come in Houston’ … County Down’s online newspaper Down News still on upward trajectory
Down News, which was set up in October 2009 as a FREE, hyperlocal newspaper, is continuing its upward trajectory and the sky is the limit. Many people now access free apps etc for the local, regional national and international news.
Down News was the first online newspaper website in Northern Ireland that used social media apps, mainly X (Twitter) and Facebook.
Within the first year on being on social media platform Facebook, the annual performance revealed 540,000 page views in 2011 and this was a contributory factor for Down News as an innovative local media business in County Down winning the Best Use of Social Media category in the legacy Down District Council awards.
A lot of water has run under the bridge in the past 15 years, some of it dark, dirty and turbulent, but Down News has continued to reach out to the local community and write articles, features, provide photographic cover of events in news and sport. Down News IS part of the local community.
Towards the end of 2025 having just gained over a million page views on Facebook a month this figure has grown considerably to well over a million each month into 2026. Currently Down News has already reached its 2025-26 target of 10 million page views on Facebook.
Photographer/Journalist Jim Masson is looking forward to 2026 and covering news and sport in County Down. Keep the news’ flow going folks. (Photo: Selfie!)
Jim Masson owner of Down News, said: “I wasn’t quite expecting to hit this figure so early over the holidays. In the last two quarters of 2025 in particular, my viewing figures increased dramatically but they had been increasing through the whole year progressively.
“I am delighted with this and it is a testament to the people in our local area seeing Down News as part of the complex and ever-changing news media now on offer.
“To this end I have committed myself on an endless journey of education in all things on media matters.
“I can remember from my first days, having completed my marketing research then doing a business plan at the Down Business Centre, everything looked promising. But just after the launch date in 2009, the recession really took off and businesses largely pulled back their advertising on print media which has struggled since. And the promised digital advertising boom blew up in mid air. But it was not technically ‘mission aborted.’ Plan B kicked in.
“‘Every strategy is just a means to action and I revised my business plan and it still works. Occasionally I tweak it. I survive year on year because of the strong support I have in the Down community and from my family, and I just always have been a dogged worker.
“As I clear the gravity of the earth this year and head out into the voids of news’ outer space, I know I am not the only space traveller looking for fortune in a universe torn with conflict but beautiful in its creation. But the difficulty in any space flight, is not getting into outer space but getting back again safely to ground. There’s many a slip twixt cup and lip!
“So keep the information and articles flowing folks. It’s very much appreciated. The modern 21st century ethos of Down News speaks for itself.
“It is fair, open, honest, empathetic, and not aligned to any particular segment of the community or party within. It is apolitical and non-sectarian. All parties are treated equally. That is the best I can offer… treating everyone with respect and dignity. And I also expect in return to be treated likewise.
“Recently, I have slowed down using Twitter (X) because of the Grok dispute re sexualised image creation and Elon Musk dragging his heels on the use of these sordid images. Thankfully, the government put its foot down on this issue firmly.
“And I will be looking into some key aspects around advertising this year with interest. And all businesses and organisations are welcome to contact me at Down News for an advertising quotation to help promote their business.
“So I’ll continue my wee campaigns and hope that everyone enjoys the offerings on Down News. I mean to grow a team going forward and I will not be standing still. My booster rockets are ready to ignite!”.
If you have any stories, articles, leads, photos, reports for news or sports, dock in to Down News at:
Have you a holiday in the sun planned this winter ? Do you intend to thaw out on some beach in Spain or farther afield ? If so, check out this article on your skin care. It is virtually impossible to turn the clock back once your skin has been sun damaged. And it could lead to nasty cancers!
The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding people not to forget to pack their sunscreen when getting ready for their winter getaway, whether it’s to the beach or the ski slopes.
But the risks too are still at home as well as in sunnier climes, and outdoor workers be they farmers or fishermen also need to take every protection.
Frances Dowds, Health and Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: “UV rays can be every bit as damaging for winter holidaymakers.
“Therefore, it is extremely important to take steps to protect your skin and stay safe in the sun, whether you are heading to the ski slopes or jetting off for some winter sun.
“Sunlight helps provide our bodies with vitamin D, supports bone health, lowers blood pressure, helps prevent disease and promotes good mental health.
“However, over-exposure to UV radiation can cause damage to the skin, and lead to skin cancer.
“The majority of all skin cancers are preventable by taking simple sun protection measures such as using the right sunscreen and applying it properly.”
The Solar UV Index shows how much solar radiation is reaching us from the sun and how careful we need to be.
UV levels vary with the seasons and time of day, but when the UV index is three or above we need to protect our skin and eyes, so it is important to know what the UV index is going to be throughout the day.
When choosing sunscreen, it is important to get one that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays which can speed up skin ageing, cause sunburn and increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
To reduce your exposure to UVB rays, your sunscreen should be at least SPF 30, and make sure it has a UVA rating of 4 or 5 stars.
How you apply your sunscreen also affects how well it protects you, but a lot of people do not apply enough sunscreen.
To maximise protection against UV damage, at least six full teaspoonfuls of sunscreen lotion are needed for an all over body application for an average adult.
You should use:
more than half a teaspoon of sunscreen to each arm;
over half a teaspoon for the face and neck, including the ears;
just over one teaspoon for the front of your body;
just over one teaspoon for the back of your body;
just over one teaspoon for each leg.
To give a good level of protection, sunscreen needs to be applied generously 30 minutes before you go outdoors, then reapplied every two hours, or more frequently after swimming, sweating, or towelling the skin.
Doreen Regan, Skin Cancer Prevention Coordinator at Cancer Focus NI, added: “Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Northern Ireland, with over 4,000 people diagnosed each year.
“Many cases are preventable, which is why protecting your skin is so important.
“You don’t need to be sunbathing to be at risk. Over-exposure to UV radiation can cause damage over time, and avoiding sunburn is vital- especially for children.
“UV rays can harm skin even on cloudy days, and snow and high altitudes increase exposure.
“Taking simple precautions, like using high protection, broad spectrum sunscreen can help people enjoy winter sun and ski holidays safely while protecting their skin and eyes.”
Other ways you can reduce your risk of skin cancer include:
Know the UV index and when it is 3 or more, protect your skin and eyes.
Seek shade when the UV rays are strongest between 11am and 3pm.
Cover up in the sun with a long-sleeved t-shirt and a broad brim hat.
Wear sunglasses that have CE or EN Standard Marks, which carry a UV 400 label and offer 100% UV protection. This will ensure they provide adequate protection from both UVA and UVB.
Avoid using sunbeds.
Check regularly for changes to your skin. If you notice any changes, you should contact your GP as soon as possible. Early detection of skin cancer saves lives.
Where to get more information:
You can find out what the daily UV index is for your area through the weather app on your smartphone or by downloading the Met Office app.
To find out more about taking care in the sun, visit:
If you are concerned about any aspect of cancer, you can call Cancer Focus NI’s Nurseline on 0800 783 3339 (Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9am–1pm) to talk about any cancer-related issue or to find out more about the charity’s cancer support services.
Banbridge trainer Natalia Lupini looks to hit the jackpot with Dundalk duo on Wednesday
Banbridge trainer Natalia Lupini is not in her busiest time of the season at the moment but she does have two live chances on Wednesday 28th January (2026) at Dundalk.
Natalía Lupini, Banbrdge trainer who hails from Italy, could find a winner at Dundalk.
Lupini sends a couple of runners to the all-weather surface this afternoon to attempt to break a winless streak of 49 days and seven runners.
Pass Me If You Can looks to have the best chance of her duo at Dundalk in midweek in the five furlong maiden contest for horses aged three and older at 2.32.
Jockey Wayne Lordan is booked for the ride, who has attracted a little bit of support in the market having opened up at 8/1 but is now 6-1 in the latest horse racing oddsmarket for the Dundalk meeting.
Pass Me If You Can has run at Dundalk twice, finishing sixth and fourth on his first two starts so will be looking to build on that here. A noteworthy opponent is Spring Is Here for the Joseph O’Brien yard.
Lupini’s other runner on the Dundalk card is Thaloria, who will take their place in the seven furlong handicap at 3.32.
Jockey Lordan has been called upon again by Lupini for this contest, but the market doesn’t fancy their chances too much as a 16/1 shot.
Thaloria has trailed home ninth of ten runners in their last two starts so will have to find a fair bit of improvement if she is to make a visit to the winners’ enclosure this afternoon.
RACE UPDATE:
Natalie Lupini scooed a brace of winner at Dundalk on Wednesday. She said: “It was a lovely double, a nice start to the year for everybody.
“Her [Thaloria’s] work has been good at home, she is a filly that is still developing, we were hoping for a nice run or at least a bit better than last time.
“Thaloria was only a 1000 guineas purchase so no big expectations, but I am very happy with her and she can improve a little bit more. Maybe she could go a mile as well.
“Pass Me If You Can, the drop down in trip helped and we thought he could run a nice race.
“There were two well-fancied runners and we would have been happy with a nice run but again, he put in a good performance, hopefully he can improve.
“He is big, strong and travels well. I think five furlongs is his trip. He could stay six furlongs on nice ground in the summer but we will keep him at five furlongs for now.
“We are starting to get a few of the two year olds in from the pre-trainers.
“Hopefully we will have a couple of early ones, some of them are shaping like they could be towards the end of the year. We have a nice team of horses, hopefully it is onwards and upwards.”
