Local police are investigating a number of reported thefts from shops across the district
With shops across County Down fully stocked and looking for a good festive turnover, shopkeepers are being advised by the police to be on their guard as the retail sector is being targetted by thieves.
Inspector Taylor said: “In investigating the recent reported thefts we have determined that many of the incidents are very similar in the ‘modus operandi’ used by the suspects.
“We believe that by raising awareness of these apparent techniques we can help business owners be alert to this risk.
Police warn of gangs of shop thieves active in the County Down area.
“In the reported thefts we are investigating, the suspects, who typically operate in groups of four-to-six individuals appear to target high value items including health and beauty products and alcohol such as brandy or champagne.
“These are mainly taken from smaller community shops rather than large supermarket chains. Some of the suspects appear to dress in long flowing clothes like maxi-skirts and long dresses.
“These dresses are often layered with other long cardigans and coats that allow them to conceal stolen items on their person. They have also been known to carry rucksacks and large bags.
“We’re urging all business owners, employees and members of the public, to report any concerns to police as soon as possible and we will use all of the tools at our disposal to identify and arrest offenders in this series of thefts.
“We also encourage business owners to install CCTV if not already in place.
“Footage from previous thefts has been invaluable in helping us build a profile of the offenders we are looking for.
“Also consider adding anti-theft devices to your higher value items, including premium alcohol brands.
“Information provided by businesses and the community is vital in helping us form a picture of what is happening for retailers and develop a police response to tackle it head on, so please get in touch if you have any information or see anything in your local shop that causes you concern.”
To speak to police, please call 101. Alternatively, you can submit a report online via:
Leading up to Christmas East Down AC held its annual 5k predicted time trial. On a cold Thursday evening EDAC members gathered at the Downshire estate to test their pacing skills over 5k writes Martin Willcox.
The aim of the evening is for each athlete to say what time they will complete the 5k distance without the aid of a stop watch or any timing aids.
Congratulations to East Down ACs Anna Gardiner who competed for Irelands U20 womens team at the European Cross Country Championships in Lagoa, Portugal, Anna placed 6th place in a very strong field.
East Down Coach Paul Burns keeping an eye on proceedings at the annual 5k Predicted time trial at the Downshire.
24 keen runners toed the start line to complete the three laps of the Downshire Hospital, and with coach Paul Burns and his team keeping a sharp eye that there is no cheating.
Once all the athletes completed the trial there was tea and buns laid on as the results were worked out. This year’s winner was Paddy Smith who had his pacing spot on to take the top prize.
All the East Down runners at the 5k predicted time trial.
Castlewellan Christmas Cracker.
EDACs two little piggies Suzy Smith and Roisin Gaffney with their winnings at the finish of the Castlewellan Christmas Cracker.
East Down ACs Lisa Laird (324A) and running Buddy Frances Peel after the Castlewellan Christmas Cracker.
Saturday saw the very popular Castlewellan Christmas Cracker Race hosted by Newcastle AC, this great event challenges teams of two runners over a course that covers 8.2 miles of roads, muddy fields and forest tracks and many hills.
The race starts in the centre of Castlewellan and finishes in the forest park. EDAC had 20 athletes entered, some with partners for other sporting clubs or family and friends.
East Down AC runners (l-r) Suzy Smith, Tom McClean, Maureen Kelly and Roisin Gaffney ready to party at the finish of the Christmas Cracker.
With cool but dry conditions, and over 600 pairs of runners on the start line the race was on. EDACS Aaron McGrady and his partner Newcastle ACs Zak Hanna made their intentions clear from the start and did battle with the eventual winners Jared Martin and Thomas Renshaw with Aaron and Zak finishing a strong second.
Another East Down / Newcastle AC pairing was Gordy Graham and Neil McGeough, they will be pleased with their 11th position against some very strong pairings.
EDACs Conaill McNabb and running Buddy Niall Quinn on the start line at this year’s Castlewellan run.
The next East Down AC team member across the line was Conaill McNabb and partner Niall Quinn in 68th spot. In 134th position was the dream team of Niamh Kellett and Barrie Atkinson and just one second behind them was another EDAC team of Eamon Kelly and James Cuffey.
The next mixed team was East Downs’ Kieran Keown and Carryduff’s Steven Cray in 153rd place. Old Hands James Magennis and Dermott Cahill came in 386th position with EDACs Ashley McGrady and running buddy Rachel Frew having a great run crossing the line in 425 spot.
James Magennis and Dermott Cahill ready for the off at this year’s Castlewellan Christmas Cracker.
Not too far behind Ashley was East Downs Lisa Laird and partner Frances Peel who enjoyed their runner coming home in 476th position.
20 seconds behind them was EDACs Declan Hampton and friend Aoife Burke in 488th spot. Maureen Kelly and Tom McClean who are no strangers to the Cracker will be happy with their 550th position, EDACs two little piggies Suzy Smith and Roisin Gaffney were not far behind in 552nd place.
East Downs Lesley Keown and partner Jenny Gray were next in breaking the tape in 627th place. Well done to all at this great annual event.
East Down ACs Dream Team of Niamh Kellett and Barrie Atkinson at the start of the Christmas Cracker.
Christmas burglaries at two Newtownhamilton churches
Police are appealing for information following the reports of two burglaries at churches in Newtownhamilton on Christmas Day, Thursday, 25th December.
It was reported to police that sometime between 3.00pm on December 25th and 9.00 am on Friday, 26th December entry was gained to churches on Dundalk Street and Castleblayney Street in the town.
Damage has been caused to both churches and a number of items have been taken including electronic speakers and a wall clock.
Sergeant Nelson said: “We are appealing to anyone that may have noted suspicious activity in the area of these places of Worship in particularly around Dundalk Road, Newtownhamilton and Castleblaney Street, Newtownhamilton during this time frame.
“Slieve Gullion Neighbourhood Policing Team are also aware of these incidents and have increased patrols in these areas.
“I would ask that members of the public continue to be vigilant and report to police any suspicious activity around places of worship.
“We would appeal to anyone who may have noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area; or who may have CCTV, dashcam or other footage which could assist our investigation; to contact us on 101, quoting reference 801 – 27/12/2025.”
A report can be made using the online reporting form via:
Derriaghy CC took control in the second half and East Belfast could not crack their defence
The NAFL,
The Border Cup Final,
Venue: Seaview, 26 12 25,
Final Score: Derriaghy CC 2 0 East Belfast.
Former Border Cup winners in 2021-22, Derriaghy CC who beat Rathfriland in a tight match 1-0 to lift the coveted amateur cup, faced East Belfast on trhis occasion, regular finalists, were in no mood for giving way to their opponents Derriaghyy CC writes Jim Masson.
From the whistle East Belfast attacked hard and it took Derriaghy 15 minutes to contain them until Lewis Higginson tried his first volley on target from 40 yards but it was well held by keeper Christopher Carson.
In a reply Rhys Kelly fired just over the Derriaghy top bar. The East Belfast won a corner and pressed the Derriaghy goal once again.
Minutes later Deriaghy’s Nick Beta was inches away from scoring with a solid strike.
Then on the 24th minute, a cross into the East Belfast box found Higginson who had the space to hammer the ball home in a crowded box to open the scoring for the blues.
Derriaghy were playing more confidently having weathered the early East Belfast storm and then Beta made a strong solo run past three defenders but eventually hit wide.
As the first half progressed, East Belfast progressively became more physical in their approach and the match stopped and started with fouls and injuries as both sides collided.
There was a moment of danger when East Belfast’s winger Brandon Lindsay whipped an excellent cross to the Derriaghy goalmouth but it was cleared after several efforts.
Derriaghy CC No 8 Lewis Higginson receives his Player of the Match award from the NAFL general secretary, David McCarthy.
An attack again from Lindsay to Kyle Woods to Jadyn Withers almost paid off for East Belfast but the ball was cleared to safety as they battled for the equaliser just before half-time.
Referee Jimmy Joihnstone gave 3 extra minutes in the first half due to injuries then blew for half-time.
As expected East Belfast came out fighting and attacked right away with a cross from Woods to Noah MItchel but Derriaghy keeper Nicholl was on form and sailed high to grab the ball and minutes later made a great diving save when Lindsay hit to the right hand post.
Derriaghy could feel the pressure from East Belfast pulling out all the stops, but Derriaghy fought back and a cross from Beta to Curtis Brown almost paid off for the leaders.
Beta was playing a key role in attacks and again a cross from the left to Beta in the box saw him quickly slam the ball into the East Belfast net in the 66th minute to make a comeback for East Belfast all the more difficult.
The Derriaghy scorers: Lewis Higginson and Nick Beta.
Derriaghy were forced to defend well and make occasional attacks as East Belfast increased the pressure on Derriaghy and the game did get a lot more physical and substitions were made.
On one break Derriaghy sub Kyle Flynn was just wide inches of the target.
As the game was coming to an end and East Belfast were pushing their players forward, they left their rear unguarded and sub Stephen Shearer made a good run at their goal forcing keeper to run out of his box but eventually an offside was given against Derriaghy.
And Derriaghy player Joseph Reid minutes later headed home but again the linesman raised his flag for offside.
The became had become scrappy with fouls, and the odd scuffle, but a frustrated East Belfast could not score which was a tribute to the Derriaghy defence to took quite a battering particularly in the dyng minutes of the game.
East Belfast player Daryl Evans received a red card just before the final whistle.
But there was no doubt about who the winners were who held on to their 2-0 lead well. Derriaghy CC were disciplined and certainly well tested by their opponents.
The Player of the Match was Derriaghy’s No 8 Lewis Higginson who opened the scoring.
East Belfast have made five appearances in the Border Cup over the years, losing twice and Derriaghy CC apearing twice, winning twice.
Derriaghy CC: 25 Jonah Nicholl (GK) 2 Gareth Henderson (C) 3 Curtis Brown 4 Barry Moore 5 Ben Hamill 6 Jordan Malone 7 Nick Beta 8 Lewis Higginson 10 Keegan Rice 11 Nicholas Napier 15 Jospeh Reid. Subs: 9 Stephen Shearer 12 Ethan Taggart 16 Andrew Foster.
East Belfast: 1 Christopher Carson (GK) 2 Jack Kinner 3 Taylor Evans 4 Ross McCaughan 5 Paul Waite 6 Rhys Kelly 7 Noah Mitchel 8 Daryl Evan (C) 9 Jadyn Withers 10 Kyle Woods 11 Brandon Lindsay. Subs: Kyle Flynn 14 Nathan Clarke 15 Bradley Porter
The Police Service of Northern Ireland can confirm that a woman has sadly died following a road traffic collision on the Ardglass Road, Downpatrick, on Friday 26th December.
Chief Inspector Simpson from the Collision Investigation Unit said: “Police received a report of a two vehicle collision, involving a Black Seat Arona and a white Vauxhall Insignia, at approximately 5.40pm on Friday evening.
“Officers attended alongside emergency services partners, however the driver of the Seat, 73 year old Angela Feenan from the Downpatrick area, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Angela Feenan (73) who died in a traffic collision on the Ardglass Road on Boxing Day.
The driver of the Vauxhall, a man in his 40’s, was taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.
“Ardglass Road was closed for some time but has since re-opened.
“Our enquiries are continuing, and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have digital footage which could assist with our investigation, to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 844 26/12/25.”
Forest dominate second half and produce four goals to topple Downpatrick
The Newcastle and District Amateur Football League,
The Bobby Dalzell Cup Final,
Venue: Robert Adams Park: 26 12 25,
Final Score: Castlewellan Forest 4 Downpatrick 0.
Christmas came a day late for Castlewellan Forest as they beat Downpatrick to claim the Bobby Dalzell Cup at Robert Adams Park on Boxing Day.
While there was not much to write home about in the first half, with the two sides locked together at the break with no score, Castlewellan Forest made the second half their own.
Goals from Sean Fitzsimmons, man of the match Ryan Morgan, substitute Colm Flanagan and Thomas Beckett proved to be the difference for the Forest, who secured the first silverware of the season in style.
The eventual champions showed their intent from the off, embarking on their first attack from kick-off, but Fitzsimmons fired wide of the mark and Beckett’s effort was stopped by a heroic Connor Campbell block.
Similarly, Downpatrick had early chances to gain the upper hand, with Tony Carson volleying over and Josh Montgomery’s shot blocked on the line.
Castlewellan Forest captain Conall Burns receives the Bobby Dalzell Cup from Bobby’s grandson Alfie Campbell. Included is Frank McLean, chair of the Newcastle and District Amateur League.
However, as the first period developed, the opportunities dried up and chances came at a premium, culminating in deadlock at the change of ends.
The second 45 minutes offered a complete contrast in terms of the action, albeit one-sided, as Castlewellan stamped their authority on the game.
Player of the Match Ryan Morgan received his awards from Conrad Kirton.
They opened their account in the 58th minute, when a counter-attack ended with Sean Fitzsimmons striding away from his man, cutting inside and firing past goalkeeper Ruairi Murphy.
A mere four minutes would pass before the Forest doubled their advantage, with Morgan completing a fine team move courtesy of an unstoppable strike.
Downpatrick, appearing to be out of ideas by that point, suffered a killer blow when Murphy misjudged the flight of the ball and Campbell’s goal-line clearance failed to stop Flanagan from applying the finishing touch.
The result may have already been beyond all doubt at 3-0, but there was still time for the Castlewellan men to put the icing on the cake ahead of the celebrations.
In the 90th minute, the ball dropped kindly, at the edge of the box for Beckett, who took one touch to set himself and arrowed into the top corner.
The victory marks a historic day for the Forest, as they became the first seconds’ team to win both Harry Clarke and Bobby Dalzell Cup honours, and manager Jack Murnin was full of praise for his players.
Castlewellan Forest managers Joe O’Neill (assistant manager) and Jack Murnin delighted with their teams win over Downpatrick FC.
JACK said: “I could not be happier with this team. The boys were unbelievable today and I thought they would have been a wee bit nervous, but we dominated and I couldn’t ask for more,” he said.
“We just need to kick on in the second half of the season. It’s great to be the first seconds’ team to win the Harry Clarke and Bobby Dalzell, and I wouldn’t mind doing it in one season.”
ANew Year Message For UFU President William Irvine
UFU President William Irvine said: “As another year draws to a close, it is a natural time to pause, reflect, and take stock. The past twelve months have tested Northern Ireland’s farming community like few others in recent memory.
“From policy uncertainty and votes of no confidence to disease risks and difficult market conditions, the challenges have come thick and fast. Yet, through it all, what continues to shine is the resilience, determination, and quiet strength of our farm families.
“For our members, Agricultural Property Relief (APR) is not a technical detail or a tax break; it is fundamental to the survival of the family farm and the successful transition of land from one generation to the next. Any move to weaken it risks undermining succession, rural communities, and long-term food security.
“When added to the weight of TB, environmental legislation, and regulatory hurdles, it is understandable that morale has been tested. What keeps our industry going is a deep pride in producing safe, high-quality food, a commitment to the land, and a firm belief that farming has a bright future in Northern Ireland.
UFU president William Irvine sets out his table for 2026. (Photo courtesy of UFU.)
“Following the Government’s announcement to raise the inheritance tax individual threshold from £1million to £2.5million, we acknowledge this as a positive and meaningful step forward for many Northern Ireland families.
“This change will provide welcome relief and greater certainty for some succession plans and reflects the strength of feeling consistently expressed by the community.
“However, while this progress is welcomed, it must not be seen as the final destination. More work will be done to deliver a long term, fair outcome that fully recognises the unique structure of family farms and supports generational renewal within Northern Ireland agriculture.
“Farm families remain the backbone of Northern Ireland’s £6 billion agri-food industry, feeding over 10 million people and producing 20% of the UK’s indigenous food. We need genuine government recognition that food security is national security; this rhetoric must be backed by investment.
“The UK’s self-sufficiency remains stagnant at around 60%. This is simply not good enough. We must reverse the decline in domestic production and ensure government policy supports farmers in delivering nutritious, home-grown food. A country that values food must value the people who produce it.
Education remains a cornerstone of our mission. Through initiatives like the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, our schools’ competitions, and Twinkl NI resources, we are inspiring the next generation.
“Every child should understand the journey from farm to fork, and we intend to expand this engagement even further in 2026.
“The confirmation of Bluetongue virus, alongside the ongoing threats of Avian Influenza and Bovine TB, reminds us how vulnerable our sector is. These threats reinforce the need for science-led decisions that protect animal health without ignoring the practical realities of farming.
“Furthermore, we remain vigilant regarding trade standards. The recent recall of Brazilian beef containing banned hormones highlights the risks of undercutting local producers.
“Northern Ireland farmers operate to the highest safety and welfare standards in the world; we will continue to lobby against any policy that allows lower-standard imports to compromise consumer trust.
“There is progress to build upon. The ring-fencing of the farm support budget has provided stability, and we look forward to the 2026 capital grant programme to help farms invest in efficiency.
“As we look ahead, the UFU begins a new chapter. In March, we bid a grateful farewell to CEO Wesley Aston after 34 years of dedicated service, and we welcome Conall Donnelly to the role.
“The UFU is proud to stand alongside you and work with you. We stood as a united force on the UK Government’s Inheritance tax changes, determined to make a difference and showed the government that they need to support you, for this we thank you for your efforts and how you represented us and yourselves.
“By working together we achieved greater certainty. To every farm family reading this, thank you. Thank you for the early mornings, the long days, and the commitment you show not just to your businesses, but to your communities and to feeding the nation.
“Farming here is more than a livelihood; it is a way of life. As we move into the New Year, we do so together, proud of what we do and hopeful for what lies ahead.”
Galbraith calls for progress in removing Meadowlands fencing
SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith has called for the quick removal of fencing in the Meadowlands area.
The contractor said the temporary compound in the area would be removed in November.
They have now said the public realm project will take at least another six weeks.
Councillor Galbraith said: “This fencing has caused significant disruption for residents in the Meadowlands area and I have been working to update them on this project.
Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith is pressing to have fencing removed at Meadowlands.
“Despite assurances that it would be removed in November, we have now reached Christmas and this fencing and compound is still up.
“This fencing limits access to green space and carparking which is having an impact on the lives of people living in this area.
“Parking is already at a premium and people of all ages are being prevented from utilising green spaces during the festive period.
“I understand the importance of public realm works and welcome them being carried out, but it’s important that they are completed in a timely manner and the effect on residents is as minimal as possible.
“The embargo on minor works from the Department for Infrastructure during December has led to further delays.”
Aggravated burglary in Killyleagh sparks police appeal
Detectives are appealing for witnesses following an aggravated burglary in the Killyleagh area in the early hours of Wednesday, 24th December.
Detective Sergeant Johnston said: “We received a report just after 12.25am that the resident of a property in the Sloane Crescent area had been awoken by a noise. When he went downstairs, he was attacked by two masked men who hit him to the head with an unknown weapon before making off.
“At this stage it isn’t known if anything was stolen.
“The man remains in hospital this morning but thankfully, although serious, the injuries aren’t believed to be life-threatening at this time.
“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area. We would also like to hear from anyone who may have relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage. The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 38 24/12/25.”
A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via:
Down Royal Racecourse: Preview and Tips for Boxing Day’s Meeting
Racing is back at Down Royal Racecourse on Boxing Day with an exciting seven-race card, which features three races over hurdles, three over fences and concluded with a bumper.
Read on for a full preview of and tips for the Down Royal card, courtesy of BOYLE Sports, who provide all the latest horse racing odds.
Our first race is a two and a half mile maiden hurdle (11.40). The newcomers are Hellfire Hathaway, Dunsy Rock, Bracken’s Jet, Areema Dreamer and Albus. They will have their work cut out for them to beat the promising Miss Doyenne, though, who is already a bumper and point-to-point winner, given five pounds by her rider and running for Henry De Bromhead.
Race two is a maiden hurdle run over two miles and a furlong (12.15). The first-timers here are Live Your Dreams and Large Steps, but Henry De Bromhead looks to have another live chance here with Los Blanco, who has been close on his latest two starts. Gavin Cromwell’s Champagne Jury, though, brings some high class form to the table, having finished close behind Honesty Policy, who has since become a Grade One winner.
The third race is a handicap hurdle run over the same trip (12.48). David Budds’ The Toothpicker should have a chance on this mark, having run well for fifth of 24 last time out, while Back To Cali looks competitive too and might run to a place. Down the bottom of the handicap, though, is Esticky End who, given weight by his rider, could go well too.
A beginners’ chase, run over two and a half miles, follows (1.23). This is quite an open affair, but Gordon Elliott’s Clodders Dream is an interesting addition. The seven-year-old has been pulled up on his latest three starts over further and now back down to his last winning distance, he could have something of a chance if taking to fences, especially given five pounds by his rider.
Race five is a two and a half mile handicap chase (1.58). Baltinglass Hill should be at a more than winnable mark now, but is a low-rated horse who struggles to win. At the top end of the handicap, Tell Nobody Nothin should have a good chance, now down a pound from his latest start, and is given seven pounds by his rider.
Our penultimate race is a three-mile hunters chase (2.33). My Life Be Like is extremely consistent on the point-to-point field, winning all of his most recent completed starts, and he should be involved again, having had time to freshen up. Its On The Line is back, and always shows up in top end hunter chases, so cannot be ignored. The Goffer looks dangerous, though, given seven pounds by his rider. Having finished second of 15 last time out.
Finally, we wrap up with a bumper (3.08). There are lots of newcomers here and this race could go any way, but Boycetown looks worth considering for Gavin Cromwell after a second on Rules debut. Making a start for Simon Munir and Isaac Souede in the famous Double Green colours is Blue Du Neuf, who could be smart, given his nice pedigree.
