McGrath Concerned At Cancer Waiting Times

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McGrath Concerned At Cancer Waiting Times

McGrath Says Cancer Waiting Times Show Executive Has Lost Focus

SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said the latest cancer waiting time statistics show an Executive that is failing to prioritise one of its most fundamental responsibilities.

Commenting on figures published today by the Department of Health, Mr McGrath said that while the Minister continues to present a picture of steady progress, the reality for too many patients is one of unacceptable delay, anxiety and uncertainty.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath is concerned at the latest cancer waiting figures.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “Behind every statistic is a person who has heard the word ‘cancer’ and is now waiting, often far too long, for treatment to begin.

“For those patients and their families, reassurance and spin mean nothing… they need outcomes.

“While 88% of patients began treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat, performance against the more critical 62-day target following an urgent GP referral continues to deteriorate.

“Only 30% of patients were treated within that timeframe, a fall on the previous quarter and a clear indication that early diagnosis and rapid access to care are not being delivered.

“Cancer care is a stated Programme for Government priority, yet these figures show it is slipping down the Executive’s list.

“The Minister is heavily focused on selling structural reform and the neighbourhood model of care, but reform without a grip on performance simply leaves patients behind.

“Cancer does not wait for system change to bed in. The Executive must stop pretending that everything is broadly okay and start taking responsibility for outcomes that are clearly going in the wrong direction.”

Statement from Health Minister on Cancer Waiting Times

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has released detailsb around the cancer waiting time figures released today saying “they reflect an early stage in the transition to our new regional breast assessment service.

“While there is still more to do, the progress since then shows that reform was necessary, that it was the right decision, and that it is already delivering results.

“The figures published today relate to July to September 2025, the first quarter in which all five Trusts moved onto the new regional system. This early transition period had a short-term impact on performance, including the 6.8% of urgent breast patients seen within 14 days. That figure does not reflect the improvements that have followed, nor the reasons why change was required.

“The 14-day breast target has never been consistently met in Northern Ireland and performance was deteriorating before the regional move. Without intervention, the service was becoming less equitable and less sustainable.

Health MInister Mike Nesbitt sets out his table on cancer waiting times.

“Since the end of the reporting period there has been very real progress. In October I introduced a regional waiting list initiative to fund additional evening and weekend clinics.

“Between October and December, 928 extra red-flag slots were delivered. The regional breast assessment waiting list reduced from 12 weeks in September to just over 7 weeks in mid-December.

“Further additional clinics have also already been delivered this month to offset the impact of a brief late December reduction in capacity.  

“Whilst I absolutely acknowledge that too many women are still waiting for too long, I want to reassure the public that the latest position is much improved compared to where it was last year.

“I also expect it to continue to improve in the time ahead with the current average waiting times falling further.  

“The regional booking system was introduced to address serious inequity of access. Previously, the likelihood of being seen within 14 days depended on where you lived. Before reform, one Trust was achieving 92.9% while another was at 3.8%.

“That postcode lottery was not acceptable and it was not equitable. The regional model now ensures patients are offered the earliest available appointment anywhere in Northern Ireland, which is the right approach for cancer care.

The review also identified a structural shortfall of around 3,900 patients per year driven by rising referrals and workforce pressures, including in radiology.

“No Trust could meet demand on its own. Regional working allows capacity to be pooled and investment targeted where it makes the most difference. We are now working with NHS Scotland to implement a modern consultant-led model supported by a maximised skill mix. I have allocated £5m recurrent funding to support this work.

“I acknowledge that 14-day and 62-day performance dipped during the transition period. This reflects the early implementation of the regional model and the roll-out of the Encompass digital system. These were expected short-term effects. The benefits of reform are long-term.

“Improving cancer performance remains a top priority.

“Through the Elective Care Framework we are investing in red-flag and time-critical capacity, expanding Rapid Diagnosis Centres, increasing imaging capacity, and exploring targeted insourcing including support from NHS Forth Valley. This is backed by the 2022 Cancer Strategy, which sets the pathway for long-term improvement.

“I can assure everyone that collectively we are doing everything we can to address this situation with straight to test pathways and learning from colleagues throughout the UK in the delivery of a red flag triple assessment service.  

“I recognise the anxiety that delays cause for patients and families. While today’s figures cover an early transitional period, the progress since then shows that reform was necessary,” added Minister Nesbitt.

Publication of Northern Ireland Cancer Waiting Time Statistics: July to September 2025

A Department of Health spokesperson said that today published Accredited Official Statistics on cancer waiting times for the quarter ending September 2025.

This release gives details of the waiting times for patients accessing cancer services at hospitals in Northern Ireland during July, August, and September 2025.

On 9 November 2023, ‘encompass’ – a new electronic patient record system, was launched in the South Eastern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust.

The system went live in Belfast HSC Trust on 6 June 2024, in Northern HSC Trust on 7 November 2024, and in Southern and Western HSC Trusts on 8 May 2025. Due to the rollout of encompass, validated data for Belfast Trust for quarter ending June 2024, and breast cancer referrals data for this Trust for quarter ending September 2024, are not available.

Validated breast cancer referrals data for Southern and Western Trusts for quarter ending June 2025 are also not available.

Data sourced from encompass are not directly comparable with legacy (pre-encompass) data sources. These figures, sourced from encompass, are considered to be ‘official statistics in development’, which are a subset of Official Statistics in line with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

While caution must be exercised when using these figures, they are a meaningful representation of what they measure and are of sufficient quality for publication and use.

Key Facts:

Waiting times for first definitive treatment following a decision to treat (31-day target)

  • In the quarter ending September 2025, 2,841 patients started treatment following a decision to treat, of which 88.0% (2,499) started treatment within 31 days. The number of patients starting treatment increased by 9.0% (234) since last quarter.
  • The percentage of patients starting treatment within 31 days increased from 87.9% (2,291) in the previous quarter.

Waiting times for first definitive treatment following an urgent GP referral for suspect cancer (62-day target)

  • In the quarter ending September 2025, 1,430 patients started treatment following an urgent GP referral for suspect cancer, of which 30.1% (430) started treatment within 62 days. The number of patients treated increased by 15.4% (191) since last quarter.
  • The percentage of patients starting treatment within 62 days decreased from 32.5% (403) in the previous quarter.

Patients first seen following an urgent referral for suspect breast cancer (14-day target)

  • In the quarter ending September 2025, 2,699 patients were seen by a breast cancer specialist following an urgent referral across all five HSC Trusts, of which 6.8% (183) were seen within 14 days. This is the first quarter for which data for all five Trusts have been available since the transition to a regional service.

Referrals for suspect breast cancer

  • During the quarter ending September 2025, 6,194 referrals were received by HSC Trusts for suspect breast cancer, of which 85.7% (5,309) were classified as urgent.
  • During the quarter ending June 2025, 3,803 referrals were received by Belfast, Northern and South Eastern HSC Trusts for suspect breast cancer, of which 85.2% (3,240) were classified as urgent.

All statistical publications relating to cancer waiting times are available online at: 

https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/cancer-waiting-times

Apply To Lidl Kickstart Programme Now Open

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Apply To Lidl Kickstart Programme Now Open

Lidl calls on Down suppliers to apply for a ‘kickstart’ following the success of previous local participants Pizzado, Steeper Culture, Sleepsound andThe Doggie Pawtisserie 

Lidl Ireland is calling on Down’s food and drink producers to apply for a ‘kickstart’ as it launches its 2026 Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, designed to support small and medium-sized suppliers into the industry. 

With applications now open for the 2026 intake, Lidl Northern Ireland is keen to hear from up-and-coming Down suppliers looking to grow their business, enhance their brand and supply one of the region’s largest retailers.

Last year’s intake saw 46 artisan products from 17 producers across five counties, including Down’s Pizzado, Steeper Culture, Sleepsound and The Doggie Pawtisserie.

Now in its ninth year, the Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, backed by Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) offers artisan producers a crucial opportunity to enter the highly competitive supermarket retail sector.

Last year’s 2025 Lidl Kickstart participants.

Successful applicants undergo a bespoke six-month development programme, receiving dedicated business support from Lidl Northern Ireland’s in-house experts, and culminating in a promotional listing of Lidl Kickstart supplier products across the retailer’s 44 stores throughout the region. 

The six-month supplier development programme provides successful applicants with dedicated business support from Lidl Northern Ireland’s in-house experts, focusing on practical aspects such as production efficiency, product development, packaging, social media guidance, administration support and strategies for successful scaling. 

Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, said: “Lidl Northern Ireland’s Kickstart Supplier Development programme champions Northern Irish producers.

“It’s not just about getting products on our shelves; it enables these businesses to grow significantly, offering our customers a fantastic, vibrant selection of innovative new products directly from Northern Ireland. 

“We are incredibly proud of the programme’s long-term success. Over the past nine years, we’ve seen phenomenal achievements from participants like Holmes Bakery in Portadown securing a full permanent listing and becoming an everyday fixture in our stores. 

“And what’s more, we’ve leveraged our massive international store network to help products go global, opening up exciting new markets across the UK, Europe, and the USA, including products from Hellbent, a South African inspired food brand co-founded by Ulster rugby players LouisLudik and Schalk van der Merwe.

“Since securing a place on the programme four years ago, they’ve not only earned a permanent listing but have also tripled their Lidl contract value to over£1 million.

“We’re incredibly proud of their success and want to encourage a new crop of agri-food suppliers to apply this year and get the kickstart they need in 2026 with Lidl NorthernIreland.” 

Commenting on the partnership, Michael Bell OBE, Executive Director at NIFDA said: “Lidl’s Kickstart Supplier Development Programme is an invaluable opportunity for new food and drink businesses right across Northern Ireland.

“After nearly a decade, the programme has a strong history of helping local suppliers gain the skills they need to grow their businesses successfully.

“It’s a fantastic chance for smaller companies to get their products in front of a major retailer, with the potential to significantly increase their output and secure a listing in all 44 of their stores here in Northern Ireland.

Also, participants get priceless advice and mentorship directly from the expert teams at Lidl. It really is a premier supplier development programme and I’d encourage all food and drink producers to get their applications in before the end of January.” 

Applications for the 2026 Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme are now open until January 31st, 2026. Interested producers can visit:

lidl-ni.co.uk/kickstart 

PSNI Lauches Drive For Student Officers

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PSNI Lauches Drive For Student Officers

The Police Service of Northern Ireland launches a new drive for student officers and police staff who ‘want to make a difference’

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has today, Wednesday 14th January 2026 launched a recruitment campaign for both new student officers and Custody Detention Officers calling on people from all backgrounds and communities to step forward and help build a safer, more connected Northern Ireland.

Over the next three weeks, the public will see a multi-faceted advertising campaign that includes broadcast and print media, across social and digital platforms. It is aimed at attracting new student officer recruits for the 22-week training programme.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said he wants the Police Service of Northern Ireland to be seen as an “employer of choice” and be “representative of the community we serve”.

“Policing is more than a job, it is a chance to work with and for communities across Northern Ireland and make a meaningful difference every single day.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher says the recruitment for student police officers is now open.

“We’re looking for individuals who care about their communities, who want to work with them to help others, and who are ready to step into roles that truly matter.

“New recruits will receive comprehensive training, and ongoing professional development, with a starting salary of £35k.

“There is no other job like it and we want people from all walks of life, from all communities, to join us.”

The application process for student officer recruitment which is now open will close on Wednesday 4th February 2026 and Custody Detention Officers on Monday 9th February 2026.

“These are fantastic opportunities for anyone who is interested in joining the Police Service and, over the next few weeks, you will see and hear our advertisements,” added Mr Boutcher.

“We’ll be undertaking a range of outreach and engagement activities in the coming weeks to encourage people from all communities, particularly those currently under-represented within the Service, to apply for a career in policing.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland is encouraging applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, reinforcing its commitment to a police service that reflects the diversity of Northern Ireland.

Chief Constable Boutcher said: “If you have integrity, compassion, and a willingness to learn, and if you want to make positive change for your community and across Northern Ireland, apply to join the Police Service, which is, having been a police officer for over 40 years, the best police service in the world.

“Our officers listen, support, protect, and they build relationships with communities that can change lives. If you want a career with purpose, where every day is different and every action counts, we encourage you to apply.”

Welcoming the launch of the Student Officer recruitment campaign, Justice Minister Naomi Long said: “The PSNI workforce recovery has been one of my key priorities and I welcome the PSNI’s recruitment campaign.

“Today’s launch, and the funding that has been delivered on a commitment to increase police officer numbers, provides a rewarding opportunity for a career in policing.

“If you want to make a positive difference in your community, policing could be for you and I would encourage you to apply.”

Supporting the latest recruitment drive, Northern Ireland Policing Board Chair Mukesh Sharma said: “Policing offers an attractive and rewarding career choice with opportunities for ongoing professional qualifications, training and development, as well as promotion and progression. 

“It is an exciting career and one where no two days will ever be the same. It is a career that has the ability to make a really positive difference to the safety of our community.

“As a Board we want policing to be fully reflective and representative of the diversity of the community it serves. We encourage and support people from all walks of life and backgrounds to apply for this latest campaign, and make policing their career of choice.”

To find out more information and apply, go to:

https://www.joinpsni.co.uk/police-officer 

where each step of the process is outlined alongside information about the roles. You’ll also be able to read testimonials from officers about their careers.

Downpatrick Primary School Swimming Success

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Downpatrick Primary School Swimming Success

Swimming Success For Downpatrick Primary School

The P6 and Foxes children from Downpatrick Primary School pictured who received their swimming distance and water skills certificates recently with P6 teacher, Mrs Alison Alexander during the school’s assembly.

The children attend Down Leisure Centre each week for swimming lessons from the experienced coaches as part of the school’s PE Curriculum.

All children from P5 -P7 have a programme of swimming lessons throughout the school year learning valuable skills that could save their lives in an emergency.

Congratulations to all the young swimmers at Downpatrick Primary School who received their certificates for swimming distances and learning water skills. Included is their teacher Mrs Alison Alexander.

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UUP Says DfI Must Up Avoid Winter Chaos

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UUP Says DfI Must Up Avoid Winter Chaos

Minister Kimmins Must Act After ‘Winter Chaos‘ says UUP Infrastructure Spokesperson

Ulster Unionist Infrastructure Spokesperson John Stewart MLA has urged Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to take immediate action following severe disruption caused by last week’s snow and ice.

Ulster Unionist Infrastructure Spokesperson John Stewart MLA said: “At my request, the Infrastructure Committee has agreed to write to Minister Liz Kimmins regarding the severe disruption caused by last week’s snow and ice across Northern Ireland.

Beware of the difficult road conditions as the winter spell continues.

“It is essential that core winter services are delivered effectively and that robust plans are in place when adverse weather hits.

“I want to pay tribute to the gritters and staff who worked in extremely challenging conditions to keep roads open.

“However, there were ample warnings issued in good time that should have allowed the Minister to act decisively.

“Instead, what we witnessed was a poorly thought out strategy. Roads were not adequately or routinely gritted, and many alternative routes were simply missed, leaving motorists in peril.

“The delays in refilling grit boxes and the absence of coordinated emergency planning with local councils left many residents without adequate grit supplies on critical days.

“There must be better planning and coordination between the Department for Infrastructure and local councils. The current setup is disconnected, and emergency planning is clearly lacking in places.

“We need to face the reality that worsening winters may become the norm, and Minister Kimmins must step up and learn from this experience to ensure Northern Ireland is better prepared in the future.”

Newry Petrol Bomb Attack Being Investigated

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Newry Petrol Bomb Attack Being Investigated

Police are investigating a petrol bomb attack in Newry

Detectives are investigating a petrol bomb attack on a house in Newry in the early hours of today, Wednesday 14th January, which injured residents.

It was reported around 2.20am that a suspected petrol bomb had been thrown through the living room window of a house in Clonmore in the Armagh Road area of the city. 

Officers attended the scene, along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service who extinguished the fire.

Detective Inspector Moffett said: “In the living room at the time was a man in his 50s who sustained a serious burn injury.

A home was attacked by a petrol bomb. The occupants escaped but the family dog died in the fire.

“Three people, including a teenager, were upstairs at the time and were able to make their way out of the burning property. However, the family’s pet dog died in the house fire.


“The man remains in hospital at this time and the other three occupants have been treated for smoke inhalation.

“This was a very serious incident when a property was deliberately set on fire with clear intent to risk life and destroy someone’s home.

“A neighbouring home was also smoke damaged as a result of this attack which we are investigating as arson with intent to endanger life.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who saw anything or who has any information, including dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 93 14/01/26.

“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via:

www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ 

or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at: 

www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

Kearns condemns petrol bomb attack in Newry

Sinn Féin Newry Councillor Geraldine Kearns has condemned a petrol bomb attack on a house in Newry. 

Councillor Kearns said:  “This petrol bomb attack on a house in Clonmore was wrong. 

“Three people were able to make their way out of the burning property but unfortunately the family’s pet dog died in the incident.

“I want to wish the man who remains in hospital a speedy recovery.

“I would urge anyone with information on this incident that they should bring it forward to the PSNI.” 

Iod Says Time To Rewire Non-Exec Board Roles

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Iod Says Time To Rewire Non-Exec Board Roles

Rewiring the boardroom: IoD calls for a bold new approach to non-executive leadership

Many boards in companies and social enterprises have non-executive directors (NEDs) in place making useful contributions, but the Institute of Directors (IoD) has today published a report calling for a fundamental rethink of what makes a board effective.

A landmard report from the IoD’s independent commission chaired by The Rt Hon. Baroness Evans of Bowes Park sets out the criteria today required for a board member in:

NEDs Reimagined: A post-Higgs review of the role and contribution of non-executive directors.

In today’s complex business environment – more than two decades after the influential 2003 Higgs Report first set the blueprint for non-executive leadership in the UK, the principles of the Higgs Review remain vital, BUT the IoD Commission argues that the time has come for boards to evolve from a model of periodic oversight to one of active, informed, and adaptive stewardship.

Embracing strategic insight and long-term value creation

The report highlights how the environment for boards has changed profoundly – shaped by digital transformation, sustainability imperatives, cyber risk, geopolitical uncertainty, and public scrutiny.

NEDs today are expected not only to provide independent oversight but also to shape strategy, culture, and long-term value creation.

Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the IoD, said: “Recent corporate failures have prompted fresh questions about how boards and directors’ function, and whether current approaches to non-executive leadership remain fit for purpose.

“That is why the IoD convened this Commission to evaluate if NEDs are adding value and identify how they might be better supported to navigate an uncertain, changing, and unpredictable climate.

“The contribution of NEDs remains vital across all types of organisations. In a time of uncertainty and rapid change, boards need directors who are bold, engaged, and forward-looking.

“This report provides a practical roadmap to help businesses strengthen governance and build more effective boards.”

The Iod is calling on a re-wiring of non-executive directors’ roles to suit a changing business environment.
(Image Ai generated/JimMasson/DownNews©).

Four priorities for modern boards:

The Commission identified twelve core findings to enhance board effectiveness and the role of NEDs, with four emerging as top priorities:

  1. NED independence should be conceived less narrowly, focusing on independence of mind, cognitive diversity as well as criteria avoiding potential conflicts of interest.
  2. Boards should be less conservative in their approach to NED recruitment, moving beyond the traditional pipeline of former executives.
  3. NEDs must bring greater energy and curiosity to the role.
  4. Boards should spend more time within the business to better understand and support its operations.

Baroness (Natalie) Evans, Chair of the IoD Commission, said: “Given today’s complex business environment, what made for a good board in 2003 is not necessarily what makes for a good board in 2026. It’s time to rewire the boardroom.

“Boards must evolve from a model of periodic oversight to one of informed, adaptive leadership.

“However, improved NED effectiveness cannot be solely mandated by government. It depends on a change in mindset – where curiosity, courage and commitment define the boardroom of the future.

“It is our hope that this report encourages boards to reflect, challenge assumptions and take practical steps to ensure their NEDs are as effective and impactful as possible.”

The report also recommends that boards:

  • Provide clearer expectations, feedback, and professional development for all directors.
  • Equip NEDs with independent resources, digital literacy, and a working understanding of AI and emerging technologies.
  • Align NED remuneration with the increasing demands and responsibilities of the role, particularly in unlisted and smaller companies.

The full report – ‘NEDs Reimagined: A post-Higgs review of the role and contribution of non-executive directors’ – is available for download here.

How Winter Travel Can Lift Your Mood and Beat the Seasonal Blues 

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How Winter Travel Can Lift Your Mood and Beat the Seasonal Blues 

British winters can feel like an endless stretch of cold, grey days, leading to low energy and reduced motivation. Travelling during the colder months, however, can offer a powerful mental reset. A change of scenery, even for a short break, can lift your mood and provide a welcome sense of perspective.

Whether it’s escaping to snow-covered mountains or exploring a vibrant winter city, thoughtful winter travel can play a meaningful role in supporting well-being during the darker months.

Photo by Dino Reichmuth on Unsplash

Understanding Why Winter Affects Your Mood

Winter can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours, icy roads, cold temperatures, and reduced sunlight. These changes can disrupt sleep patterns and affect the body’s natural production of mood-regulating chemicals such as serotonin. It’s no surprise that many people report feeling less motivated or more withdrawn during winter.

One effective way to counter this is to have something positive to look forward to. Planning time away gives you a clear focus beyond day-to-day routines and provides a psychological boost long before the trip begins. Looking forward to a change of environment can help break the mental monotony that often accompanies the winter months.

Travel as a Well-Being Boost

Travel is associated with improved emotional well-being, and this effect can be especially valuable in winter. Stepping away from familiar surroundings allows your mind to reset, offering space to recharge mentally and physically. New experiences stimulate curiosity and engagement, helping shift focus away from stress or seasonal fatigue.

Well-being has become a central topic of discussion over the past decade, with workplaces and organisations increasingly recognising how winter can affect mental health. Taking a short break during this period isn’t indulgent; it can be a proactive way to support emotional balance. Even a few days away can provide clarity and renewed enthusiasm when you return.

Staying Active and Embracing Winter Adventures

Winter travel also encourages movement at a time of year when people are often less active. Walking through festive city streets or spending time in the mountains skiing doesn’t feel like forcing yourself to go to the gym after work, but it offers real physical and mental health benefits.

For some, planning ski weekends as a quick getaway offers an energising mix of fresh air, physical activity and social connection. Being outdoors, even in colder temperatures, can improve mood and help counteract the sluggishness that often sets in during winter. The sense of achievement from activity, whether skiing or simply exploring, can significantly boost confidence and overall well-being.

Planning Well to Reduce Stress and Travel Confidently

Winter conditions and changing travel advice can create uncertainty if you’re unprepared. Taking time to research destinations, accommodation and transport options can reduce anxiety and help you travel with confidence.

It’s also wise to check official travel guidance, health advice, airline websites, and weather conditions before booking or departing. Knowing what to expect lets you focus on enjoyment rather than potential disruptions.

Register Now For Jimmy’s 10K On 15th March

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Register Now For Jimmy’s 10K On 15th March

On your marks! Get set for the Jimmy’s 10K. Entries are now open for 15th March 2026

• Entries are open for the 26th annual Jimmy’s 10K road race – proudly sponsored by Finnebrogue, the largest private employer in the Downpatrick area.

The countdown is on as entries officially open for the 26th annual Jimmy’s 10K, taking place on Sunday 15 March 2026, hosted by East Down Athletics club, with valued support from returning sponsor Finnebrogue.

Entries are now open and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. The measured 10K course starts close to Ballydugan Industrial Estate runs past the War Memorial and takes runners on two scenic loops along the Quoile Road, before finishing beside Down Leisure Centre.

With a largely flat profile and a few gentle inclines, the route is perfectly suited to all abilities — from those chasing PBs or the £200 winner’s prize to those tackling their very first 10K.

For runners seeking a team challenge, the popular relay option returns, allowing pairs to split the distance and complete approximately 5K each.

East Down AC Chairman Wayne Giles; East Down AC members Tom McClean, Sharon Madine, Declan Hampton, Róisín Gaffney, Leaghann Jervis (Finnebrogue); and Stephen Heasley East Down AC. 

Anthea McAuley, Communications Manager at Finnebrogue, said: “Finnebrogue is absolutely delighted to sponsor the Jimmy’s 10K road race for the fourth consecutive year.

“It’s a well-established community event that brings people together of all ages and abilities and we’re proud to be associated with it.”

Chair of East Down AC, Wayne Giles, said: “We are delighted to host the 26th annual Jimmy’s 10K on St Patrick’s weekend and help kick-start the celebrations in the heart of St. Patrick’s homeland.

“Jimmy’s 10K is one of the first major running events in the calendar and we hope to see a record number of participants taking to the streets of Downpatrick in March 2026.”

This year’s entry package includes a 2026 race t-shirt for the first 700 entrants, chip timing, on-course and finish water, pacers and post-race refreshments.

The Early Bird rate runs until mid-January 2026, with the first 100 registrants receiving a Finnebrogue goodie bag.

Registration will close on Wednesday 11 March at 9:00pm.

To enter or find out more details, click the link:
https://in.njuko.com/jimmys-10k-20261760648669588

About the Sponsor, Finnebrogue:

Finnebrogue is part of the Sofina Foods Group, a privately owned company with European headquarters in Malton, North Yorkshire, dedicated to providing great-tasting, high-quality food product and generating more than £3.8 billion in revenue.

Globally, the company and its wholly owned subsidiaries operate more than 40 sites and have over 14,000 employees in Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany and France.

Finnebrogue made its name producing premium sausages for leading supermarkets, before launching its revolutionary Naked Bacon in 2017.

From its four sites in Downpatrick, including a state-of-the-art vegetarian facility, Finnebrogue produces numerous own-label bacon, sausage, burger and vegetarian products to leading supermarkets, alongside its own Naked range, made without nitrites.

Finnebrogue’s mantra remains unchanged in 34 years: we make food the best it can be without being bound by the way it has always been done.

Shrigley Village Green

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Shrigley Village Green

Residents in Shrigley are celebrating that their village green will no longer be sold off by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

At a Full Council meeting on Monday (12th Jan) evening, councillors unanimously agreed to no longer progress with disposing of the land in Shrigley after objections were made by Rowallane DUP councillor, Callum Bowsie.

Cllr Bowsie said: “After a year-long fight, the Council’s plan to sell off this vital community space in Shrigley has finally been scrapped this evening (Monday 12th January 2026).”

The land was first identified as ‘surplus to requirements’ by the council in 2020. However, Cllr Bowsie insists this land should never have been considered as surplus.

He said: “It is hard to believe that a village green would be stuck on a ‘surplus assets’ list and the land disposed of without any community consultation.

DUP Councillor Callum Bowsie gives a thumbs up after securing the Shrigley Green for the community.

“This one-acre grass area is used for recreation throughout the year, such as the recent ‘Shrigley 200’ festival for the village’s bi-centenary.

“The area also has historical importance as it is where the old Shrigley village once stood until 1970 with much of its rubble still buried beneath the grass.

“When I joined the Council’s Resources Committee in 2024, I was horrified to see this important parcel of land on the ‘surplus assets’ list and had been in the process of being disposed of since 2020.

“And when I spoke up and opposed this, I was labelled ‘difficult’ by other parties and voted down.

“Unsurprisingly I had the full support of Shrigley Community Group, and along with Michelle McIlveen MLA, we met with council management to highlight the importance of this public green to the people of Shrigley.

“There is also a deed of covenant stating this land must be retained as an open recreational space which would have limited the revenue raising by the council anyway.

Main Street, Shrigley, which was demolished between 1966-1970 and is now the site of the public green.

“Even if a well-intentioned body bought the land and allowed public use of it, there was no guarantee that person or organisation would have the money or interest in 5, 10 or 20 years’ time to regularly maintain this space and accept any liabilities that may arise.

“Why would residents agree to ditch a secure council maintenance schedule for an unknown arrangement by a private unaccountable body?

“I therefore argued that not only were the council’s plans to dispose of the land not thought-through, but the modest four-figure sum of ratepayers’ money that was annually used to maintain Shrigley’s only public green, was money well spent in its ongoing effort to enhance community cohesion and health.

“Credit must go to Shrigley Community Group who made clear ‘Shrigley’s green is not for sale!’ I am pleased the other political parties have (eventually) supported me in objecting to these plans.

“It’s a small win, but there is still a lot to do in Shrigley to improve community facilities in this once thriving village.”

Cllr Bowsie added: “I would like to thank council staff and other political parties for latterly working with me on this and supporting my proposal for the council to retain this cherished green space.

“Thanks also go to local residents Kathleen Stockton, Amy Breen, and Chris and Michelle Hagan for their invaluable support in this campaign.”

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