Clanmil Housing Opens New Homes In Newry

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Clanmil Housing Opens New Homes In Newry

Festive Celebration Marks Official Opening of New £6.2m Newry Homes

• Chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council officially opens Clanmil’s new homes at Merchants Quay, Newry

Clanmil Housing has officially opened its new Merchants Quay development in the heart of Newry.

Councillor Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, joined residents at a Christmas themed celebration event marking the official opening of the new homes.

Residents and guests enjoyed festive treats, a visit to Santa’s grotto, and fresh wood fired pizza, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere as the community came together.

Cutting the ribbon to open the Clanmil Housing new accommodation block at Merchant’s Quay in Newry are Cllr Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council; Jan Sloan, Executive Director of Development and New Business at Clanmil, and Santa Claus and his little helpers. (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews).

Located within the Newry Conservation Area and overlooking the canal, Merchants Quay delivers 38 new apartments, including 29 social homes and 9 private rental home.

The total cost of the new homes was £6.2m including grant funding of £2.9m from the Department for Communities through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

The development brings much needed regeneration and new housing to the city. More than 3,300 people across the district are currently in need of affordable housing, and the scheme represents an important addition to local supply.

Built in partnership with Kelly Brothers and MDF Architecture, the homes meet Lifetime Homes and Secure by Design standards, supporting accessibility, safety and long-term adaptability.

The development includes an attractive first floor outdoor communal area designed to encourage connection and community among residents.

Councillor Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: “I am delighted to officially open Merchants Quay and to meet the residents who are now calling this beautiful development their home.

“This scheme brings high quality housing right into the heart of Newry and represents a real investment in our people. It is wonderful to celebrate this milestone with such a festive community event today.

(l-r) Cllr Aidan Mathers: Barry Trainor, Kelly Bros., Jan Sloan, Executive Director of Development, Clanmil Housing; Aidan Fearon, resident; Cllr Philip Campbell, Chair of Newry Mourne and Downe District Council; Ronan Kelly, Kelly Bros.; and Dáire Hughes, MP, Newry and Armagh.

“I wish all the residents many happy years here and I commend Clanmil and all involved for delivering such an impressive development.”

Jan Sloan, Executive Director of Development and New Business at Clanmil, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Councillor Campbell and so many of our new customers to celebrate the opening of Merchants Quay.

“This development reflects Clanmil’s commitment to providing high quality homes for people to live well, while helping to meet the significant housing need in the Newry area.

“The design and location of Merchants Quay make it a very special place. Our teams have been working closely with residents as they settle in, and it has been lovely to bring everyone together today for a Christmas celebration that reflects the warm, welcoming community that is already growing here.”

Resident Aidan Fearon added: “Moving to Merchants Quay has been a huge step forward for me. After five years on the waiting list and staying with my elderly mum, having a place of my own feels amazing.

“The apartment is modern, warm and really well designed, and the community here is already so welcoming.

“Today’s Christmas event was a great chance to meet neighbours, and I’m looking forward to building my independence with the help of tenancy support. I already feel at home here.”

Merchants Quay was completed in May 2025 and provides a mix of one and two bedroom apartments, each designed with energy efficiency, comfort and longevity in mind.

The scheme brings back to life a key site in the city centre and demonstrates the impact of partnerships between housing associations, local authorities and the wider construction and design team.

Clanmil Housing is one of Northern Ireland’s leading housing associations and currently owns and manages over 6,000 homes throughout Northern Ireland including family homes, homes for single people, independent living schemes for older people, housing with care for frail older people and supported housing for older people with dementia.

Farmers Fear The Worst As Bluetongue Spreads

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Farmers Fear The Worst As Bluetongue Spreads

Fourth suspected case of Bluetongue virus under investigation

DAERA has announced that two further suspected Bluetongue cases have emerged on a fourth County Down farm.

Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) surveillance has indicated suspect cases in two cattle on a second farm near Greyabbey. This takes the total number of suspected infected premises to four.

Andrew Muir MLA, DAERA Minister

The discovery came as the National Reference Laboratory confirmed the Bluetongue virus (BTV) in the first Greyabbey case (initially reported on 6 December) and the case on a farm near the site of the original outbreak near Bangor (initially reported on 11 December).

Following veterinary assessment of the latest suspect case, a decision has been taken that further extension of the TCZ is not required.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “The emergence of a fourth suspect case during surveillance testing is disappointing, but will not come as a surprise given the scale of the testing undertaken by the Department.

“Bluetongue is an unpredictable virus that can be spread rapidly by midges through and between flocks and herds.

“It is important to reiterate that BTV poses no human health risk or food safety concern but it does impact cloven hoofed animals like cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas.

“While we are now in the vector inactive period with the winter weather limiting the ability of midges to spread the virus, it is vital farmers and vets familiarise themselves with the symptoms and remain on their guard over the coming months for clinical signs of the disease. 

“Herd keepers and flock owners who suspect an outbreak should report any symptoms immediately to their vet, local Divisional Veterinary Office or to the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.”

Farmers are on the alert as bluetongue disease has spread to the fourth case in County Down so far.

Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher added: “Following the decision to relax restrictions on the movement of animals to Saintfield Market from today, veterinary officials are continuing to work with industry and with our counterparts in other jurisdictions to relieve the restrictions on non-infected premises in the TCZ, while also working with those who have had infections.

“That is where our focus is right now and we hope to be in a position in the coming days to make further progress.”

***

DAERA’S Disease Control Framework for Northern Ireland (NI) for Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) can be accessed at: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/bluetongue-disease-control-framework. 

The General Licence for the movement of animals into the Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) can be accessed at: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/bluetongue-general-licences.

The TCZ declaration in Co Down issued by DAERA can be accessed at: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/declaration

This contains maps of both 20km TCZs to enable farmers to confirm whether they are impacted.

All General Licences available in relation to the Bluetongue incursion in Northern Ireland can be viewed and downloaded for use at: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/bluetongue-general-licences

Information and advice on BTV-3, including the clinical signs can be accessed at: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/bluetongue.

    Belfast Giants Sign Carsen Twarynski

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    Belfast Giants Sign Carsen Twarynski

    Belfast Giants have confirmed the signing of former NHL forward Carsen Twarynski

    The Belfast Giants are pleased to confirm the signing of 28-year-old forward Carsen Twarynski for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

    From Calgary, Twarynski arrives in Belfast from HC Dynamo Pardubice having joined the Extraliga side at the start of the 2025/26 season.

    Drafted 82nd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in round three of the 2016 NHL entry draft, Twarynski’s senior career began in the WHL, where he iced for the Calgary Hitmen and Kelowna Rockets, before spending time with the Leigh Valley Phantoms, Charlotte Checkers, and Coachella Valley Firebirds of the AHL.

    Twarynski made his NHL debut in October 2019 as part of the NHL Global Series in Prague, Czech Republic. 

    Carsen Twarynski, former NHL player, has joined the Belfast Giants for the 25/26 season from Calgary in Canada.

    Adam Keefe, Head Coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “Carsen’s addition adds much-needed scoring depth and size to our forward group. He has been playing at a very high level and is excited to help us win.”

    Ahead of the 2023/24 season, Twarynski signed his first contract abroad, agreeing to join the Vienna Capitals of the Austrian ICE Hockey League. Having notched 13 points (six goals and seven assists) in 23 games, Twarynski returned to the AHL, registering a total of 65 regular season appearances for the Bridgeport Islanders, Abbotsford Canucks, and San Diego Gulls.

    Belfast Giants Carsen Twarynski said: “I’m very excited to be joining the Belfast Giants. The winning culture and high standards that have been built here in Belfast really stood out to me.

    “I’m a competitive player who wants to win championships, and I believe this organisation has everything in place to achieve that goal. I can’t wait to suit up for the Giants and play in front of the passionate Belfast fans.”

    The Giants return to Elite League action on Sunday 21 December, taking on the Dundee Stars at The SSE Arena, Belfast. Tickets are on sale now and available to purchase here. 

    (Courtesy of Belfast Giants.)

    Quagga Mussels Threat To Down Waterways

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    Quagga Mussels Threat To Down Waterways

    DAERA urges greater vigilance as Quagga mussel confirmed in Lower Lough Erne – a first confirmed record in Northern Ireland

    The first confirmed case of the highly invasive Quagga Mussel in Northern Ireland has been reported in Lower Lough Erne, but there are fears that it may spread farther afield across Northern Ireland including to waterways in Down.

    Scientists from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) collected samples suspected to be quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) while carrying out routine surveys in Lower Lough Erne. 

    This was confirmed on 10 December following DNA analysis at Queen’s University Belfast.

    The quagga mussel is a small bivalve mollusc similar to the invasive non-native zebra mussel. Like the now widespread zebra mussel, the species originates from the Ponto-Caspian region – an area around the Black and Caspian Seas.

    Waterways in County Down such as Strangford Lough, and the many loughs, rivers, canals and reservoirs, will likely be in the long-term affected by the invasion of quagga mussels that can clog up drains and completely cover the beds of waterways impacting on biodiversity and affecting water quality.

    Quagga mussels are an invasive species and can block drains, cover the keels of vessels, attach to man made structures and cover the waterway bed impacting on local biodiversity. (Photo: Jan-Robert Baars).

    It is highly invasive and has spread rapidly from its native region in Ukraine during the last few decades through Western Europe and to North America and Mexico.

    It was first recorded in Britain in 2014 and in Loughs Ree and Derg (Ireland) and in the main River Shannon system, in 2021.

    Compared with zebra mussels, quagga occupy a wider range of depths, they colonise softer substrates and have higher filtration rates. It is expected they will survive in some places that zebra mussel can’t and will eventually outcompete and displace them.

    Possible vectors include recreational boating, angling traffic, trailered craft travelling overland and inter-catchment transfer of equipment such as paddle boards/canoes.

    DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “This confirmation that the highly invasive Quagga mussel has arrived in  Northern Ireland represents another significant pressure to our already beleaguered freshwater system.

    “Increased vigilance and surveillance is critical.  My officials are engaging with stakeholders and public agencies to alert them to this arrival and the need for enhanced biosecurity measures. 

    “Cross-border engagement also continues through the Shared Island Biosecurity and Invasive Species Initiative.” 

    Rose Muir, NIEA Invasive Non Native Species team added: “There is no effective control or eradication method for quagga mussel once it has established in a water body. 

    “The best method of slowing the spread and reducing the risk to other water bodies is by applying better biosecurity through the Check, Clean, Dry approach.

    “We are urging all water users to follow this protocol strictly when moving between water bodies.”

    Dr Kevin Gallagher, Senior Scientific Officer at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) said: “The confirmation of quagga mussel in Lower Lough Erne is significant given the connectivity of major water bodies.

    “Once established, this species can spread rapidly and cause substantial ecological and economic impacts, including altered food webs and infrastructure fouling.

    “This underlines the need for enhanced surveillance across connected systems, including Lough Neagh, and strict biosecurity to limit further spread.”

    With quagga now confirmed in both the Shannon system and Lower Lough Erne, the most likely scenario is that there has been a connected invasion along the Shannon–Erne corridor.  It is therefore plausible that quagga are already present but undetected in intermediate waterbodies, including Upper Lough Erne.

    The Department has contacted relevant stakeholders to make them aware of the new arrival and our response to it and will initiate extra monitoring to investigate the extent of the population.

    Officials are planning to identify those waters that should also be sampled by assessing the potential pathways for the spread of quagga mussels into other water bodies.

    Archibald Announces Childcare Training Places

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    Archibald Announces Childcare Training Places

    Mason Welcomes Childcare and Early Years Skills Academy Extension

    Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has welcomed the extension of the Childcare and Early Years Skills Academy

    The party’s spokesperson on Childcare and Early Years said: “The Skills Academy announced by the Minister will help create highly skilled childcare and early years practitioners that will deliver high-quality care to our children and young people.

    South Down MLA Cathy Mason welcomes the opportunities for childcare training through the Childcare and Early Skills Academy.

    “This commitment from Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald will aid in addressing the workforce shortage facing the sector.

    “The Education Minister must now bring forward the long overdue Childcare and Early Learning strategy. One that works for parents, staff, providers, and, most importantly, our children.”

    Archibald Announces Third Assured Skills Academy in Early Learning and Childcare

    Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced 16 high quality training places on an Early Learning and Childcare Assured Skills Academy.

    This Academy, fully funded by the Department for the Economy, is an opportunity to obtain supervised childcare experience and gain industry recognised qualifications and skills to take up potential Early Learning and Childcare roles with companies in Belfast and outlying areas plus counties Antrim, Armagh and Down.

    Successful applicants will study accredited training modules covering safeguarding, first aid, fire safety, food hygiene and manual handling during a ten-week intensive training course delivered by Belfast Met at their Castlereagh campus.

    Delivery will primarily be in-person, supported through e-learning resource and facilitated visits to childcare settings.

    Encouraging applications the Minister said: “The provision of good quality childcare is hugely important to the local economy and people with industry recognised qualifications are in high demand and have a vital role to play.

    “With no previous experience required and a £180 weekly training allowance for the duration of the Academy, as well as help with travelling and childcare costs, I would urge all who are eligible and interested to apply for a role in this sector.”

    Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Ministedr,
    Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA , Economy Minister, has announced placements for the Third Assured Skills Academy in Early Learning and Childcare.

    Interim Principal and Chief Executive of Belfast Met, Damian Duffy said: “We are proud to be working with our network of childcare providers to deliver the third Department for the Economy-funded Early Learning and Childcare Academy.

    “With demand for skilled early years professionals continuing to grow and a workforce shortage putting pressure on services, this initiative will help create the qualified practitioners needed to support children’s development and strengthen the sector for the future.”

    The Academy will be delivered from Monday 16 February to Friday 1 May 2026.

    Upon successful completion of the Academy participants will be offered an interview with one of the supporting companies. Offers of employment will be solely at the discretion of the companies following the interview. 

    Eligible applicants will be invited to an information session and interview which will be held week commencing Monday 26 January 2026.

    All applicants must be at least 18 years old and be eligible to work in the UK at the time of application.

    Whilst there are no minimum level of qualifications required to apply for the Academy, preference will be given to applicants with Level 1 or higher English and Maths (equivalent to GCSE D-G).

    The online application form must be completed by 12.00 noon on Friday 16 January 2026.

    More details and to how to apply can be found on the nidirect website at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/early-learning-and-childcare-academy

    For further information please email your enquiry to:

    [email protected]

    UFU Backs NFU Meeting With Prime Minister

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    UFU Backs NFU Meeting With Prime Minister

    UFU encouraged by high-level engagement on inheritance tax

    The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has noted the recent high-level engagement between NFU president, Tom Bradshaw and UK Government officials regarding the issue of inheritance tax.

    While this dialogue is a necessary step, the UFU cautions that significant uncertainty remains regarding any potential positive outcomes for farming families.

    Following Mr Bradshaw’s notable meetings with Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, and senior Treasury Minister, Dan Tomlinson, UFU president William Irvine has provided members with an update on the current position regarding inheritance tax discussions as the Christmas period approaches.

    UFU President William Irvine is supporting the NFU in its discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer over inheritance tax.

    UFU President Wiliam Irvine said: “At the outset, I would like to thank all those who wrote to their MPs and supported that part of the campaign.”

    He then turned to discuss the NFU-organised meetings themselves.

    “Both the NFU president’s meetings were focused on inheritance tax and, while we welcome the fact that they took place, there is still no certainty at this stage on what the potential outcomes may be.

    “As for what happens next, today will see the second reading of the Finance Bill. This is a broad approach to supporting the overall aims of the Budget and is not the moment for amendments or rebellions.

    “That moment will come in the new year, and that is when we need to move forward with our proposed amendments to the Finance Bill.”

    The Ulster Farmers’ Union remains focused on securing amendments to the Finance Bill in line with the other three UK farming unions, all of whom are united in this approach.

    “Our position as the Ulster Farmers’ Union remains rock solid,” Mr Irvine stated.

    “This bill is unworkable, it will wreck Northern Ireland farms, and we need significant changes made to it.”

    Down Shoppers Fundraise In Lidl Trolley Dash

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    Down Shoppers Fundraise In Lidl Trolley Dash

    Lidl shoppers across Down raise more than £15,900 for Age NI in Lidl Northern Ireland’s annual festive ‘Trolley Dash’ fundraiser 

    * And 10 lucky Trolley Dash winners also bagged a trolley full of festive goodies for free to enjoy this Christmas

    Every penny raised from ticket sales, including those purchased in Down stores, will go directly to the charity to support older people throughout Northern Ireland this winter.

    Down Trolley Dash winner Naomi Fowler took home over £200 worth of Lidl’s award-winning Deluxe festive food and treats to enjoy over the Christmas season after taking part in the Lidl fundraiser to support Age NI.

    On Saturday 13th December, the thrill of a two-minute supermarket sweep came to the county as a lucky Down shopper, along with 43 others across the region, enjoyed the unique opportunity to fill a trolley with their favourite festive items for free at their local Lidl store.

    The Down dash was a moment of excitement and festive cheer, joining the 44 dashes that took place across Northern Ireland.

    This thoughtful addition invited Age NI service users to take part in specially adapted dashes across selected Lidl stores.

    Participants were offered an additional three minutes in the aisles and assistance where needed, ensuring they could take part safely, comfortably, and with the same sense of enjoyment and excitement as the traditional dash.

    Pictured going wild in the aisles at the Newtownards Lidl store in County Down is Naomi Fowler who took home over £200 worth of Lidl’s award-winning Deluxe festive food and treats to enjoy over the Christmas season.

    Down Trolley Dash winner Naomi Fowler coming through the checkout at her Lidl store with over £200 worth of festive foodstuffs.

    Commenting on the success of this year’s campaign, Gordon Cruikshanks, Regional Managing Director at Lidl Northern Ireland, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have raised £73,433 for Age NI this year.

    “Every ticket purchased has helped make a real difference, and we are incredibly grateful for the generosity and enthusiasm shown by Lidl customers and colleagues across Northern Ireland.

    “Introducing the Age Friendly Trolley Dash has been a very meaningful step for us.

    “Watching older participants take part was a highlight of the campaign this year, and we are proud to support Age NI in championing older people in our communities.”

    Speaking about the support from Lidl shoppers, Linda Robinson BEM, Chief Executive of Age NI, added: “We are so thankful for the exceptional support received through this year’s Trolley Dash.

    “The funds raised will allow Age NI to continue delivering vital service for older people right across Northern Ireland, especially at a time of year when many feel isolated.

    “The Age Friendly Trolley Dashes were a wonderful addition. Seeing older participants feel included, supported and part of the excitement was truly uplifting, and we are delighted to work with Lidl Northern Ireland to help drive equity, and create these moments for the people we support.”

    Fast Broadband To Reach Over 9000 Homes

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    Fast Broadband To Reach Over 9000 Homes

    Changing times: Fast broadband to reach over 9,000 rural premises across Northern Ireland

    Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced that Fibrus Networks Ltd have been appointed to deliver Project Gigabit.

    The £34.6milion contract, funded by the UK government, begins immediately and will bring gigabit-capable broadband to over 9,000 rural premises across Northern Ireland.

    Project Gigabit is the UK government’s programme to enable hard-to-reach communities to access gigabit-capable broadband and builds on the success of Project Stratum, which brought high speed broadband access to 81,000 premises in Northern Ireland.

    At 94% gigabit capable coverage, the North now has the best coverage across these islands. England has 85%, Scotland has 78%, Wales has 76%, while the South has 88%.

    Fibrus, Viberoptix and Hyperfast staff at a fibre installation site. (Photo by Harry Atkinson.)

    Economy Minister Archibald said: “High quality internet access is vital for our economy and wider society.  It is transformative for many households and businesses, enabling access to digital services, remote learning and work, and economic participation. 

    “At 94% gigabit capable coverage, the north is now the best connected part of these islands. 

    “Building on this, Project Gigabit will extend this level of digital capacity to over 9,000 premises, further improving broadband infrastructure in predominantly rural areas.

    “Digital connectivity is a vital enabler in building an inclusive, regional balanced economy. This investment further positions the north as a leader in the availability of fixed-line fibre optic services, underpinning our digital transformation, competitiveness, and innovation.”

    Telecoms Minister, Liz Lloyd said: “Access to gigabit-capable broadband is so important to modern life, whether that’s running a business, accessing digital public services, or staying connected with loved ones.

    “That’s why we’re making crucial investments into digital infrastructure across Northern Ireland, to unlock economic opportunities, support Northern Irish communities, and ensure everyone can fully participate in the digital economy from wherever they live.”

    Dominic Kearns, CEO and Co Founder of Fibrus: “Delivering for rural communities is at the heart of what we do at Fibrus and this contract allows us to continue to provide more homes and businesses with the opportunities proper connectivity brings.  

    “We have a short history in Fibrus, but one that shows we can deliver on time and within budget like with Project Stratum.

    “We are delighted to have been awarded another contract by the Government who have entrusted us once again with its delivery.”

    More details of the deployment plans are available at:

    www.online.economy-ni.gov.uk/ProjectGigabit/.

    This includes a premises checker to enable homeowners and businesses to check if their premises will benefit from Project Gigabit.

    When Down News, an online newspaper covering County Down started in October 2009, it was the first fully online newspaper in the North using social media apps.

    Initially broadband coverage was poor but it was destined to grow and now 16 years on in the North Project Gigabit can now reach many of those homes that were previously unaccessible.

    Project Gigabit will improve access to broadband to rural premises across the North says Mason

    Project Gigabit will help build regional balance and a more inclusive economy Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said.

    The South Down MLA was commenting after the Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald announced that Fibrus Networks Ltd are to deliver Project Gigabit.

    “Project Gigabit will bring high-quality internet access to thousands of rural homes and businesses across the north,” Ms. Mason said.

    “From accessing digital services to learning and working from home, digital connectivity is vital for growing our economy and keeping society connected while also delivering further regional balance.

    “The North is already the best-connected part of these islands and Project Gigabit will further extend and improve broadband infrastructure in mainly rural areas.

    “Sinn Féin is committed to delivering regional balance and ensuring communities in the north see real and positive change through projects like this.”

    Soccer Round-Up For 13th December 2025

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    Soccer Round-Up For 13th December 2025

    A soccer review of selected matches across the district

    Ballynahinch Olympic 3 Dundonald 1.

    Amateur League Division 1B

    Ballynahinch Olympic made it four wins on the trot as they continued to revive their season with a home victory over high-flying Dundonald.

    Olympic’s Nathan Jones and Dundonald’s David Long traded goals in the early exchanges, but it was the home side who led at the break, regaining an advantage thanks to captain Jason Noade.

    The hosts knew they were going to need an extra goal for security and although it did not arrive until the 91st minute, Jones made it a double for himself and sealed all three points.

    Carryduff Colts 6 St Teresa’s 1

    Amateur League Division 2B

    Carryduff Colts returned to winning ways in style when they hit St Teresa’s for six at the Lough Moss Centre.

    Tiernan McCullough and Jack Moore’s goals had the two sides level at the end of a fairly even first half, however, the second period could not have been more contrasting.

    The Colts’ Rory Timoney and Lorcan Swail ran the Teresa’s defence ragged from start to finish after the change of ends, netting a brace and a hat-trick respectively.

    Clarence Mayes Cup Round One.

    Kilmore Rec 2 Dromara Village 1

    Kilmore Rec scraped through the R1 of the Clarence Mayes Cup at Robert Adams Park. They went a goal down from one minute by Dromara’s Callum Bradley. Joshua Smyth equalised in the 54th minute and it went to extra nail-biting time when Christopher Magee scored on 90+12 saving the day for Kilmore Rec to move to the next round. (Photos: JimMasson/DownNews©).

    Realta naCromoige 2 Saintfield United 1

    Clarence Mayes Cup Round 1

    Saintfield United fell at the first hurdle in the Clarence Mayes Cup, losing out to lower-league opponents Realta naCromoige.

    There was very little to split the sides in the first half and while they looked certain to enter the break locked together at 0-0, a Ben Roper own goal gifted the hosts a narrow lead on the stroke of half-time.

    Ryan Sofley appeared to have forced extra-time when he levelled 10 minutes from time, but United were dealt a cruel blow, conceding with virtually the last kick of the game.

    Killyleagh YC 13 Clonduff 1

    Clarence Mayes Cup Round 1

    Killyleagh YC made light work of lower-league opponents Clonduff as they stormed into the second round of the Clarence Mayes Cup.

    The goals came thick and fast, with Cameron Howard (4), Kodi Carson (2) and Nathan Leckey firing Killyleagh home and dry by half-time, while Jordan Robinson managed a consolation for Clonduff.

    The Whites showed no mercy in the second half either, as Gary Morrison came off the bench to net a hat-trick and Conor Hamilton, Sam Kirk and Toby Carinduff joined in on the act.

    Castlewellan Town 3 Barn United 0

    Clarence Mayes Cup Round 1

    Castlewellan Town continued their strong season with a comfortable victory over Barn United, sailing through to the second round of the Clarence Mayes Cup.

    The Town only needed two minutes to get off the mark, with Matthew Stratton opening the scoring and setting the tone for the afternoon, and while they had to be patient to increase their advantage, there was only ever one winner.

    Ruairi Croskery doubled the hosts’ lead in the 72nd minute, before Caolan Teer followed up, just three minutes later, putting the tie to bed.

    Newhill 4 Newcastle 2

    Clarence Mayes Cup Round 1

    Newcastle were left stunned when underdogs Newhill sprung a surprise to knock them out of the Clarence Mayes Cup in the opening round.

    The hosts got the majority of their work done in the early stages, establishing a three-goal lead by the 23rd minute, courtesy of Caolan McAvoy and a Leo Donaghy double.

    They made it four just nine minutes into the second half and although Leigh Moore and Jonathan Scannell pulled two back for Newcastle, the damage was already done.

    22nd Old Boys 2 Celtic Bhoys 4

    ToalsBet.com Junior Shield

    Celtic Bhoys advanced to the last 16 of the Junior Shield with a hard-fought, extra-time victory over 22nd Old Boys.

    The Hoops found themselves trailing after just 11 minutes and despite Shaun Megahey’s equaliser and an OB red card appearing to give them the upper hand, the hosts regained the lead through Tyler McKee.

    Caoimhin Groves forced extra-time with a 75th-minute equaliser, and it was one-way traffic from there, with Cameron O’Donnell and Sean McMahon firing Celtic through.

    Newcastle Town Swifts 1 Castlewellan Forest 2

    McCalls Newcastle League Premier Division

    Castlewellan Forest kept themselves ticking over with a derby victory over Newcastle Town Swifts as they prepare for the Bobby Dalzell Cup final on Boxing Day.

    Shane Kearney opened Castlewellan’s account in the 21st minute, while Sean Fitzsimmons strengthened their claim shortly after the interval.

    The Swifts fought back in the second half, eventually reducing the deficit with 15 minutes remaining, yet Forest had enough left in the tank to get over the line.

    Strangford 1 Ardglass 4

    McCalls Newcastle League Premier Division

    Reigning champions Ardglass piled pressure on league leaders Killough when they cruised to a convincing win against last season’s foes, Strangford.

    Although goals from Ardglass’ Caolan O’Shea and Strangford’s Luc Tolan had the teams level approaching half-time, Dara O’Shea was on hand to give the visitors the edge in the 44th minute.

    The home side remained in with a chance of causing an upset as the clock began to wind down, but Jamie McDarby and Dara O’Shea had other ideas, each netting in the final 10 minutes.

    Rossglass County 1 Downpatrick 3

    McCalls Newcastle League Premier Division

    Downpatrick came from behind to beat Rossglass County and move to within six points of the league leaders, with two games in hand.

    Christopher Hamilton’s finish was enough for Rossglass to take a slim lead into the break, however, just eight minutes after the change of ends, a Barry Mageean own goal brought Downpatrick level.

    Tony Carson launched the visitors in front for the first time, after 62 minutes, before Barry Treacy put the contest to bed five minutes from time.

    Davina’s Ark Wins All-Island Pride Of Place

    Staff Reporter
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    Davina’s Ark Wins All-Island Pride Of Place

    Council Honours Davina’s Ark Following All-Island Pride of Place Win

    Davina’s Ark, winners of the Community Wellbeing Initiative Award at the All-Island IPB Pride of Place Awards were honoured at a special reception by Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

    Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, hosted the civic reception on Wednesday 10 December to celebrate the win.

    The group was nominated through the Council’s Newry DEA Forum. The reception recognised the organisation’s outstanding work supporting individuals and families affected by addiction across the district, as well as the dedication of its staff, volunteers and supporters.

    NMDDC Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell with Rosemary Rooney, CEO Davina’s Ark and Newry DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor Aidan Mathers at a reception for Davina’s Ark, who won the Community Group Wellbeing Initiative category at the All Ireland Pride of Place Awards.
    (Photos courtesy of NMDDC).

    Speaking at the event, Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell reflected on his experience of the Co-Operation Ireland judging visit, organisers of the IPB Pride of Place Awards, and the profound impact of what he witnessed.

    He said: “It wasn’t just the programmes or services that impressed me – it was the atmosphere. The warmth the moment you walk through the door.

    “The sense of safety and acceptance that surrounds every person who seeks help. A genuine belief that every individual, no matter their struggle or story, is worthy of care, dignity and hope.”

    Acknowledging the significant challenge addiction poses to individuals, families and communities, Chairperson Cllr Campbell said: “At Davina’s Ark, I saw hope being restored. I saw lives being rebuilt. I saw families finding strength again, and I saw a team who refuse to let anyone walk their journey alone.”

    The Pride of Place judges commended Davina’s Ark as “an organisation serving a deeply traumatised sector of the community with extraordinary love, compassion and empathy,” recognising its provision of 24/7 support to individuals and families.

    NMDDC Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell celebrates with Rosemary Rooney (centre), CEO Davina’s Ark and her team members, along with Councillors Geraldine Kearns and Aidan Mathers, Chairperson of Newry Dea Forum, at a reception to celebrate their award at the All- Ireland Pride of Place Community Awards in Limerick.

    Councillor Philip Campbell added that while the organisation’s work is often carried out quietly and without recognition, its impact is felt across the district.

    He added: “Your work is not loud or boastful but its impact is felt in every corner of our community. You are not simply delivering a service – you are saving lives.”

    The Chairperson concluded by congratulating everyone involved with Davina’s Ark on their All-Island recognition, describing the organisation as “a true lifeline and a beacon of hope” within Newry, Mourne and Down and thanking them for the compassion, courage and commitment they show every day.

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