Lecale Trinity Grammar pupil Violet McLaughlin completes work placement at Down News
As a Year 13 student at Lecale Trinity Grammar School in Downpatrick, I recently completed a week of work experience at Down News, a hyperlocal newspaper in County Down covering news and sport, where I gained valuable insights into the world of journalism writes Violet McLaughlin.
Journalism has always interested me because it allows people to explore different perspectives of our local society, understand important issues, and engage with a wide range of opinions and debates.
I believe that listening to different viewpoints is essential in today’s society, and journalism plays a key role in helping people stay informed and connected.
My week at Down News provided me with a practical and theoretical understanding of how news stories are researched, written, and presented to readers.
One of the most valuable skills I developed was learning how to write articles using a structure that helps to keep readers engaged.
Throughout the week, I also learned how photography contributes to how strong images can enhance a news article.
I had the opportunity too to improve my photography skills by taking photographs on a visit to Downpatrick Racecourse on their annual Schools’ Day where 10 primary schools’ P7 classes attended.
In addition to photography, I gained experience using Photoshop and learned how it can be used to prepare photographs and make them look better.
These technical skills helped me understand the many different tasks involved in producing a newspaper beyond writing articles using WordPress.
A particularly enjoyable aspect of my work experience was conducting interviews with local public representatives and community figures, Colin McGrath, Cathy Mason, and Eamonn McGrady.
Conducting these interviews allowed me to develop my communication skills and gain confidence when speaking with people in professional settings.
The experience also taught me the importance of researching and preparing questions, listening carefully, and accurately representing peoples’ views.
My studies at school complement my interest in journalism and have helped me develop skills that are useful within the field.
I currently study English Literature, Media Studies, and Business Studies at AS-Level at Lecale Trinity Grammar School. I will then progress on to A-Level courses for my last year.
English Literature has strengthened my analytical and writing abilities, while Media Studies has given me a deeper understanding of how information is communicated to audiences.
Business Studies has helped me understand organisations, decision-making processes, and the wider economic environment that often influences news stories.
The placement at Down News strengthened my interest in journalism and gave me a clearer understanding of the skills required for a future career in the industry.
A quality wristwatch provides more than just a convenient means of telling the time. It’s also a way to store wealth, pass it on, and signal to the world at large that you are a reasonably well-off individual with great taste.
Let’s consider the image that a good wristwatch can help go generate, and the factors that go into shaping the influence that a watch can have on the way that you’re perceived by others.
Why Quiet Luxury Has Changed the Modern Watch Market
Not so long ago, it was common to see high-net-worth individuals flaunt their wealth with the help of gaudy, oversized wristwatches. Modern buyers, however, tend to be a little more discerning. Just as a whisper can be louder than a shout, a refined, low-profile watch can suggest the kind of wealth that a showy one seeks to signal.
The Watches That Signal Old Money Rather Than New Money
We should make a distinction between ‘old money’ watches and ‘new-money’ ones. The latter tend to feature gimmicks and striking design choices, while the former tend to adhere more closely to tradition. Think leather straps, uncluttered dials, and a small amount of precious metal (with minimal gemstones).
Patek Philippe, Cartier and Vacheron Constantin all tend to appeal to collectors, because their value holds more reliably over years and decades. This contrasts with modern sports models, which fall out of favour as fashions change. The Rolex Datejust, with its iconic date window built into the face, is a fantastic case in point.
How Watch Enthusiasts Spot Wealth Through Details Most Men Miss
The more you learn about watches, the more you’ll be able to pick out subtle details that signal quality engineering and manufacturing methods. The way that the hands move, the quality of the bracelet, and the patina that might build over silver and leather can all help an item to carry prestige. Smaller, independent watchmakers might also carry the sort of prestige that larger names can only aspire towards – but only among a knowledgeable few.
What British Buyers Are Looking For in 2026
So, what is the watch-buying public looking for this year? As we’ve suggested, there has been a distinct softening in demand for sports watches, and an uptick in demand for pre-owned ones. This suggests an increased interest in older, classic models.
Despite the broader economic picture, demand for watches and other luxury goods has proven quite resilient, with even smaller, niche manufacturers thriving. If you want somewhere to store your wealth, and you’re unconvinced by the appeal of gold and other assets, then watches might be worth looking at. If you have a particular passion for these items, then you might be able to distinguish a good investment from a bad one!
Many clothes work against summer weather, locking in warmth or leaving skin exposed to the sun and leaving us feeling hot and uncomfortable. However, crafting compatible outfits that will actually keep you cool isn’t the distant dream it may seem when you know how to approach putting together summer looks. Here’s how to ensure comfort and style when you’re out and about this season – even in the hottest spells.
Choose breathable fabrics
All summer outfits should be built from breathable garments. This will have the biggest cooling effect. That’s because allowing air to circulate beneath clothing helps to regulate temperature, stopping you from overheating.
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are most breathable. Choose materials blended with synthetic fibres to minimise water absorption and keep you feeling dry but avoid those with a very high percentage of polyester unless they’re specifically designed for moisture management. Special sweat-wicking blends, found in activewear, are the best for outdoor activities.
Consider colour as well as the material. Lighter colours reflect sunlight and don’t show sweat patches so clearly, while darker colours will absorb the heat.
Even the best quality fabric will struggle to keep you comfortable if a garment fits too tightly. T-shirts that sit close to the armpit or shorts or trousers with tight waistbands will rub, causing painful chafing, and restrict airflow, worsening the discomforts of the climate. Choosing flowing garments like maxi dresses rather than clothing that clings is essential to a successful summer wardrobe.
Popular summer styles reflect this. Think about wide-leg trousers like palazzo pants and loose linen skirts, oversized white shirts and elegant shift dresses that skim over the waist and thighs. Remember that a relaxed fit creates space between your skin and the fabric, allowing heat to escape more easily.
Build outfit formulas
The best way to ensure you’re prepared for every eventuality in the season is to put together a capsule wardrobe of coordinating pieces that can be mixed and matched to suit different situations, rather than relying on a collection of individual pieces. It can support better personal style by improving consistency and speed up daily dressing, too.
Consider routine summer activities to identify and create reliable formulas. For example, dresses work best for leisurely experiences like lunches with the girls, while shorts and tops provide more flexibility and comfort for walking. Over-sized trouser suits are a great alternative to tight dresses for garden parties, weddings and other seasonal special occasions.
Keeping a consistent colour palette will help ensure your pieces are easily interchanged, although don’t be afraid of embracing dopamine dressing with some bright colours – summer is the season to bloom, after all! Neutral shades such as stone, white, tan, navy and olive mix easily and together create an appropriate Mediterranean feel.
Accessorise for protection
Accessories should contribute to comfort as much as appearance. The right additions can help you manage heat and sun exposure throughout the day without complicating your outfit.
A wide-brimmed hat provides shade for your face and neck while reducing the need to squint in bright sunlight. Sunglasses protect your eyes during long periods outdoors and often make outdoor activities more comfortable. Lightweight canvas and raffia bags make a statement and feel easier to carry in warm weather than heavier leather alternatives.
Add one protective accessory to every summer outfit. A practical hat for a weekend market visit or a pair of quality sunglasses for a city walk can make several hours outdoors feel significantly more comfortable while complementing the rest of your look.
DUP Minister must get to grips with housing and homelessness crisis says Mason
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said that Communities Minister Gordon Lyons must get to grips with the housing and homelessness crisis.
Speaking after new figures released showed the number of households waiting for social housing has passed 50,000, the deputy chair of the Communities Committee said: “The figures released this week showing that over 50,000 households are now waiting for a social home are extremely concerning.
South Down MLA Cathy Mason has said Housing Minister Gordon Lyons needs to address the housing shortage and homelessness.
“Almost 4,000 of which are in the Newry Mourne and Down area alone. That’s 4,000 families who are left without the security, stability, or dignity of a permanent home.
“No community should be expected to tolerate levels of need on this scale.
“These figures reveal a worsening housing crisis, and so far, DUP Housing Minister Gordon Lyons has completely failed to get to grips with the issue.
“The minister’s scheme to purchase 600 homes for temporary accommodation has not yet delivered one single home in the North.
“This is unacceptable.
“The statistics should act as a wakeup call to Minister Lyons who urgently needs to get to grips with the crisis in housing.”
Council Elects New Chair and Deputy Chair at Annual Meeting
Newry Mourne and Down District Council elected a new Chair and Deputy Chair at its annual meeting on Monday 1st June 2026.
Councillor Glyn Hanna (DUP) has been appointed Chairperson, with Councillor Doire Finn (SDLP) elected as Deputy Chairperson.
In his inaugural speech as Chairperson, Cllr Hanna said it was an honour to take up the role and he was “proud and humbled” to serve as the first Unionist Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council since its creation in 2015.
“I have lived and worked in the Mournes all my life, running my own business and valuing the importance of supporting local skills.
“My family has lived in this area for many generations, with a long connection to farming and fishing. That strong sense of place is what inspired me to stand for election to serve the people of the Mournes and the wider district,” he said.
The new chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, DUP Councillor Glynn Hanna says he wants to see councillors working together for the Council to deliver for the district.
“As a councillor I firmly believe that councillors should work together to ensure the Council delivers for the people of this district and provide the best services possible.”
Cllr Hanna added: “During my time as Chairperson, I will do my utmost to promote and support businesses across our Council area and champion opportunities for growth and prosperity.
“I will continue to offer support for local healthcare facilities and services, while pursuing better roads and essential services for rural communities.
“Throughout my year in office, I am committed to recognising and respecting the diversity of our district, ensuring that everyone feels valued and represented.
“I will make a conscious effort to acknowledge and celebrate minority traditions, including Ulster-Scots culture, as an important part of our shared heritage. I am dedicated to carrying out the duties of Council Chairperson with integrity, fairness, and respect for every resident in our district.”
The new Chairperson has chosen two charities to support during his year in office, both of which are close to his heart and provide vital services in the community; they are Mourne Stimulus Day Centre, which supports adults with physical and learning disabilities, and Heartbeat NI, which supports children living with heart disease.
Cllr Doire Finn (SDLP) has been elected as deputy Chairperson of Newry Mourne and Down District Council.
The new Deputy Chairperson Cllr Doire Finn, is looking forward to championing local communities, supporting the arts and cultural sector and showcasing the very best of Newry, Mourne and Down and said: “It is an incredible honour to be nominated as Deputy Chairperson.
“I have always tried to use my voice to stand up for local people and for the issues that matter most to our communities.
“Whether that is supporting local businesses and community groups, promoting opportunities for young people or championing our arts and cultural sector, I have always believed politics should be about improving people’s everyday lives and helping our communities reach their full potential.”
She continued, “Our district has an incredible creative and community spirit. From local artists and musicians to volunteers and grassroots organisations, there are so many people giving their time and talent, working tirelessly to make this place better every day.
“I want to use my role to champion those people and ensure their contribution gets the recognition it deserves, and I’m determined to continue speaking up for young people and ensuring they feel supported and optimistic about building a future for themselves here at home.
“Too many people still feel they have to leave to build a career or afford a future and I want to keep pushing for investment, quality jobs and thriving communities where people can put down roots.”
Reflecting on his year in office, outgoing Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said it had been the “experience of a lifetime” with one of the greatest privileges of the role recognising the contribution that young people make across the district.
“It has been an honour to meet and work alongside them through the many events, projects and programmes delivered by our Council and partner organisations.
“A particular highlight was my Local Democracy Week initiative, a competitive programme that gave secondary and grammar schools the opportunity to draft and present a Council motion.
Cllr Campbell said another highlight was the evolution of the Chairperson’s Awards, explaining that by opening nominations to the public, his aim was to make them more inclusive and representative of the people of Newry, Mourne and Down, with the awards shining a spotlight on the many unsung heroes who dedicate their time, energy and talents to improving life in communities across the district.
Cllr Campbell paid tribute to all Council staff for the outstanding work they carry out across the district every day, “From environmental initiatives and ambitious capital investment and regeneration projects to the hugely important work being undertaken through the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls programme.
“Their commitment and professionalism continue to make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Outgoing Deputy Chairperson, Cllr Geraldine Kearns, said it was her privilege to hold the position and represent the district.
“Serving in this role has been both a humbling and deeply rewarding experience, meeting and listening to concerns of residents, individuals or groups, or cutting ribbons of new community initiatives.
“I have always strived to make Newry Mourne and Down a better place to live and work,” said Cllr Kearns.
“I have met some wonderful groups and individuals which shows that our Council does reach out and respects and acknowledges the contribution made by them. It has been a sometimes-hectic schedule with three to four events each week, but it has been a learning curve for me also.
“Thanks also to Council staff who worked tirelessly helping me through the year and I wish the incoming Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson all the best for their term in office.”
Other business conducted at the meeting included the appointment of Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Council’s standing committees:
Active and Healthy Communities Committee
Chair – Councillor Tierna Howie
Vice Chair – Councillor Aidan Mathers
Economy, Regeneration and Tourism Committee
Chair – Councillor Killian Feehan
Vice Chair – Councillor Selena Murphy
Sustainability and Environment Committee
Chair – Councillor Mickey Ruane
Vice Chair – Councillor Terry Andrews
Planning Committee
Chair – Councillor Mickey Larkin
Vice Chair – Councillor Michael Rice
Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee
Chair – Councillor Callum Bowsie
Vice Chair – Councillor Oonagh Hanlon
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s newly elected Chair, Councillor Glyn Hanna, and Deputy Chair, Councillor Doire Finn, pictured following their election at the Council’s Annual Meeting held in Downpatrick Civic Centre on Monday 1 June 2026.
400 adult competitors ready to lock horns in the Beyond The Wall National Series Triathlon at Castleward
Hillyard House Announced as Title Sponsor of Beyond The Wall Triathlon & Aquathlon 2026
Down Triathlon Club (DTC) is proud to announce Hillyard House, Castlewellan, as the Title Sponsor of the 2026 Beyond The Wall Triathlon and Beyond The Wall Youth Aquathlon, taking place on Saturday 13 June 2026 at Castle Ward Estate, Strangford.
Now firmly established as one of Northern Ireland’s premier sporting events, the Beyond The Wall National Series Triathlon will welcome 400 adult competitors, while the Youth Aquathlon, part of the Triathlon Ireland Youth Series, will host 100 young athletes from across Ireland and beyond.
The Down Triathlon Club has built a strong partnership with Hillyard House in Castlewellan.
Down Triathlon Club’s Chairperson, Michael Morrissey and Mark & Martin O’Higgins from Hillyard House pictured at Castle Ward Estate, Strangford ahead of the 2026 event with the club’s Junior “Tigers” showing us how it should be done
Located in the heart of Castlewellan, Hillyard House Hotel is a stylish boutique destination renowned for its warm hospitality, high-quality food offering, and strong connection to the local community. Positioned at the gateway to the Mourne Mountains, it is a natural partner for an event celebrating outdoor sport and active lifestyles.
Mark & Martin O’Higgins of Hillyard House commented: “We are absolutely delighted to support Down Triathlon Club as Title Sponsor of the Beyond The Wall events. These races showcase everything that is great about this area – community spirit, the outdoors, and people coming together to challenge themselves.”
Celebrating Junior Talent and Creativity
Maurice Massey, right, Chair of the Down Triathalon Club, pictured with some young competitors.
Down Triathlon Club’s medal design winners Sophia and Yvaine with runner-up Robyn pictured at Castle Ward Estate with Brian Corry, Beyond The wall Race Director and Michael Morrissey, Down Triathlon Club Chairperson
The club held a medal design competition, with the winning designs by Sophia and Yvaine featuring on the official medals. The winners received vouchers and personalised mugs featuring their designs in recognition of their creativity and contribution.
Brian Corry, Down Triathlon Club’s Beyond The Wall Race Director said: “We are thrilled to welcome Hillyard House as our Title Sponsor for 2026.
“This collaboration allows us to continue growing the event while delivering a top-class experience for athletes, volunteers and spectators.”
Event Schedule & Spectator Information
Saturday 13 June 2026
Youth Aquathlon Start: 10:00am. Triathlon Start: 11:00am Limited places for both events are available on the Triathlon Ireland website. Entries close this Friday (5 June 2026) at midnight
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early. Castle Ward Estate and the main Strangford Road will be closed from 10:45am to 2:00pm.
Castlewellan Agricultural Show set to return for a packed celebration of farming, food and family fun
Following its official launch last week, organisers have confirmed details for the 2026 Castlewellan Agricultural Show, which will return to the stunning surroundings of Castlewellan Forest Park on Saturday 18th July 2026.
Running from 9am to 5pm, the much-loved annual show will once again bring together the very best of farming, food, rural life and family entertainment for a full day out in the heart of County Down.
This year’s event will feature thousands of animals competing across a wide range of livestock classes, including beef and dairy cattle, sheep, horses and ponies, donkeys, pigs, poultry, rabbits and cavies.
The Sheep Committee is ready for a big entry this year at the Castlewellan Show.
Visitors can also look forward to a lively programme of displays and competitions, including show jumping, pony games, dog agility and the always-popular family pet show.
New for 2026, the show will welcome an exciting Sheep Speed Shearing competition, adding another fast-paced attraction to the day’s agricultural showcase.
Younger visitors will be well entertained with bouncy castles, inflatable slides, bumping cars, face painting and a variety of interactive activities, while adults can enjoy browsing the trade stands, craft marquee, Eco Village and Home Industries marquee.
Food and drink will also play a major role in this year’s show, with a dedicated Food Tent shining a spotlight on some of the best of Northern Ireland’s local producers.
The Young Farmers will be on hand during the show. Call in to their stand for a chat!
Live cookery demonstrations will take place throughout the day, with chefs from Killeavy Castle, Hillyard House Hotel, Burrendale Hotel and Dundrum Inn showcasing local ingredients and culinary talent.
Entertainment will continue across the site with a bar, live music from Country Harmony, Box Car Brian and Lauren McCrory, as well as the return of the popular Jiving Competition with JivinGym.
Castlewellan Agricultural Show Secretary Mary Valentine said: “Castlewellan Show is always a fantastic day for the whole community, bringing together farming, food, local talent and family entertainment in one of the most beautiful settings in Northern Ireland.
Looking forward to the cavies competitions.
“This year’s programme is packed with something for everyone, from livestock competitions and food demonstrations to children’s activities, live music and our new Sheep Speed Shearing competition.
“We are delighted to be welcoming visitors back to Castlewellan Forest Park for what promises to be another memorable show day.
“We are also incredibly grateful to our sponsors for their continued support, and to the dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy each year. Quite simply, the Show would not be possible without them.”
Guest speaker, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council outgoing Chairman PhilipCampbell, said: “Castlewellan Agricultural Show has been part of the fabric of this area for generations and continues to make a hugely positive contribution to the local economy and tourism offering.
“It brings thousands of people into Castlewellan and the surrounding area, supporting local businesses while showcasing the very best of rural life, agriculture and community spirit.”
The Castlewellan Agricultural Show remains a family-friendly event, with free admission for primary school-aged children and complimentary car parking available on the day.
Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to save.
MP welcomes progress on Kilkeel Road scheme as works continue
Works on the Kilkeel Road scheme are progressing well despite challenging conditions, according to local MP Chris Hazzard.
The Sinn Féin MP said additional safety issues identified during the works have required some extra remedial work, which may see the scheme extend into late June.
The MP confirmed that DfI Roads and the contractor are discussing opening one lane to traffic while completing the remaining works, though stressed that any decision must prioritise the safety of both workers and road users.
South Down MP CHris Hazard pictured with Cllr Selina Murphy has welcomed progress on the KIlkeel Road at Hilltown.
Chris Hazzard MP said: “I want to reassure everyone affected by these works that despite the challenging conditions, the scheme is moving forward and good progress is being made.
“Additional safety issues identified during the works required extra remedial work. While this may mean the scheme runs into late June, it’s crucial that the work is done right.
“The preferred outcome would be to open one lane to traffic while the remaining works are finished, but only if that can be done safely for the workers on site and for road users. That conversation is ongoing between DfI Roads and the contractor and I will keep a close eye on developments.
“The safety of workers and road users will always be the top priority, and I fully support that position.
“I will continue to update the local community as this progresses and would encourage anyone with concerns to contact my constituency office directly.”
The Chief Constable has spoken to the injured policeman who is in hospital following the Downpatrick incident
Speaking after an attempt was made to kill a police officer in Downpatrick at the weekend, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said: “Firstly my thoughts are with the young officer who was struck by the vehicle, and with his colleague who was forced to witness what they believed at the time to be the murder of their colleague and friend.
“I spoke with the injured officer this morning and am heartened to hear that he is recovering well despite some horrible injuries and I wish him a full and speedy recovery.
“Policing is without question a career filled with risk and challenge, and sometimes danger. What it is not, is an acceptable target for those who want to unleash violence and chaos on society.
“This attack didn’t arise from terrorism or a violent altercation involving weapons. This began with a car which failed to stop.
“It is further evidence, if any was needed, of the danger facing our officers every time they put on their uniform. How within a split second almost any situation can escalate into violence or the threat of violence towards them.
“PSNI officers put themselves on the front line everyday to keep communities safe. They serve with professionalism, courage and a deep commitment to the people of Northern Ireland and they do not deserve to be faced with what I see as increasing levels of abuse and hostility simply for doing their job.
“Our recent statistics tell us that there have been more than 2,600 assaults on officers and staff in a 12 month period to the end of 2025, as well as over 100 incidents where police vehicles have been rammed.
“Now we are seeing vehicles weaponised as part of efforts to murder police. Nowhere in a civilised society can this be considered ‘normal’ or ‘part of the job’.
“Police officers no longer face only the continuing threat from dissident republican groupings but they now also have to contend with a chaotic surge in routine violence.
“Abuse and aggression directed at those who have chosen service and making a difference as their career have somehow become an accepted daily norm in Northern Ireland. This pervasive apathy towards such attacks has to be universally called out, challenged and eradicated.
“Support for policing – and for our police officers – must be unequivocal.
“Our officers and staff are from the same communities as everyone else living and working in Northern Ireland.
“And they are the ones who step forward to serve those very same communities. So, these attacks are not just attacks on individuals, or attacks on ‘the police’ as an entity, they are – and should be unanimously viewed as – attacks on all of us.
“I continue to work closely with the Department of Justice and other criminal justice partners to ensure these crimes are met with the strongest possible action.
“I will ensure those who attack police officers and staff are pursued and prosecuted for their actions, and do all I can to ensure they are in the best possible place for them and for society – prison.
“Both the District Commander for Newry Mourne and Down, Superintendent Lynne Corbett, and I have been inundated with messages of support from the public and from across the political spectrum, for which we are both very grateful.” The investigation into the incident by detectives from PSNI Serious Crime Branch is continuing. One man (27) has been charged with a number of driving offences and appeared in court this morning while two others, a man aged 36 and a woman aged 27, remain in police custody.
Detectives continue to ask the public for information and any recorded footage the may have. You can call police on 101 or submit information online at:
Update on investigation into attempted murder of a police officer in Downpatrick on Sunday, 31st May.
A 27-year-old woman, arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police, has been bailed to allow for further enquiries.
A 36-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder and aggravated vehicle taking causing injury.
Police Update: 26 26 4pm.
Detectives investigating the attempted murder of a police officer in Downpatrick have been granted a court extension.
The court extension of an additional 36 hours was granted on Tuesday morning, 2nd June, in relation to a 36-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Vibrant New Public Mural Painted by Students Unveiled in Downpatrick
Work on a vibrant new public mural in Downpatrick town centre has been completed by students from two schools working with a local artist.
The Newry, Mourne and Down District Council funded initiative has transformed a gable wall in Market Street adjacent to a supermarket into a welcoming sight for residents and visitors, providing a distinguishable new landmark.
The mural is located at part of the town which was impacted by major flooding in November in 2023, with the devastating event reflected in the completed artwork.
Students from Lecale Trinity Grammar and Down High schools were involved in the cross-community arts initiative, with the project led by local artist Kieron Black, in partnership with the Down Arts Centre, supported by the Council through its Outreach Programme.
Killough artist Kieron Black facilitated the mural in Market Street in Downpatrick with the aid of students from the Lecale Trinity Grammar and Down High School. Included are Newry Mourne and Down outgoing chair, Cllr Philip Campbell with the school’s Shared Education Co-ordinators Keith Williamson and Celeste McEvoy with mural coordinator Leontia Haldenby and members of the wider project team.
The idea for the mural emerged from exploratory discussions during the Artist in Residence programme at the Arts Centre, with the project developed into a standalone initiative in recognition of its potential to deliver meaningful engagement across school communities.
A structured programme of workshops enabled sustained participation, allowing students to progress from early-stage creative exploration to the development of a resolved, collaborative public artwork.
The methodology underpinning the project placed emphasis on process-led learning, with students encouraged to explore concepts of identity, place and belonging through visual language, before situating their ideas within the context of a shared public space.
Over the course of the workshops, students engaged with key artistic considerations including composition, materiality, symbolism and audience interpretation, while also developing confidence in creative decision-making and collaborative practice.
Those involved in the project say the mural is not only a visual enhancement to the built environment, but a symbolic marker of resilience, reflecting both the lived experiences of the community and a forward-looking sense of renewal.
The project has delivered measurable benefits across multiple areas, with students demonstrating increased confidence, improved communication and teamwork skills, and a greater understanding of the role of art within civic space.
For the wider community, the mural provides a permanent and accessible cultural asset, contributing to local identity, placemaking and civic pride. It also highlights the value of creative outreach as a mechanism for meaningful youth engagement.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council outgoing Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “This project demonstrates the impact of sustained creative engagement through outreach delivery.
“By providing young people with the opportunity to collaborate on a shared public artwork, it supports both artistic development and positive community connection.
“The completed mural is a strong visual statement for Downpatrick and a testament to the creativity and resilience of its young people.
“A lot of hard work went into this project and I commend everyone involved. The mural makes an important contribution to the streetscape at this part of the town.”
Councillor Campbell said the arts initiative underscores the importance of continued investment in structured, artist-led outreach programmes, particularly those that facilitate cross-community collaboration and result in lasting public outcomes.
