East Belfast Life Autumn 2015

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WHYI LOVE... AidAn CAmpbell,kAtie WAddell,& RyAn A tell usWhy they love eAst belfAst

CYPRUSAVENUEeXClusive CoveRAGe of vAn moRRison’s iConiC ConCeRt, And moRe fRomthe eAstside ARts festivAl

DININg IN tHE EAStessentiAl Guide to eAtinG out in eAst belfAst

An ulsteR tAtleR GRoup publiCAtion LifeEASTBelfast

Autumn 2015 | £2.00 where soLd

east belfastlife

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East Belfast Life 01

introduction

02 Why I Love East Belfast - Aidan Campbell

16 Why I Love East Belfast - Ryan A

20 Gelston’s Corner - A History

26 Ulster Footballer of The Year Award - A History

49 Eating Out In the East

56 New Kids on the Block - New Restaurants in the East

58 Why I Love East Belfast - Katie Waddell

60 EastSide Arts Festival

67 East Belfast Motoring

74 Celebrating C.S. Lewis

80 What’s Happening in the East

12 Green Flag Award for Knocknagoney Park

12 Disney comes to Specsavers at Connswater

14 Freshen Up Your Wardrobe for Autumn

24 East Belfast Community Watch

25 Remembering VJ Day

25 Glentoran Win Again

28 Harland Youth take to The Lagan

29 East Belfast Runners Support Local Charity

34 Remembering Ruth Barnett Baker

40 The Perfect Accessories for Autumn

44 The Gaelic League in East Belfast

52 The Elk - A Review

54 Oliver’s Deli

66 The Flying Ulster Men

68 Craigantlet Hill Climb

77 Five of the Best - The Best Parks in East Belfast

ContentsAn Ulster tAtler GrOUP PUblicAtiOn

04 Van Morrison Cyprus Avenue Concert

06 Marie Curie Celebrates 50 Years

10 Orangefield Park Family Fun Day

18 Crossroads for Carers 21st Anniversary

19 Museum of Orange Heritage Opens

30 Tim McGarry Stand Up Evening

36 Ulster Rugby Kit Launch

42 East Belfast Writers Remembered

48 Celebrating Van Morrison’s

70th Birthday

55 Jenny Bristow Masterclass

65 Harland & Wolff Welders

Awards Evening

74 Engine Room Gallery Exhibition

76 Glenn Patterson Book Reading

78 Peel Fashion Evening

Welcome...

contActEAST Belfast Life ISSN

39 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6UTT: 028 9066 3311F: 028 9038 1915E: [email protected]

Ulster Tatler Group accepts no responsibility for loss, damage or the return of unsolicited material.

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EEL FASHION STORETel: 028 9045 2665 www.peelfashionstore.com

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WHYI LOVE... COLIN RUSSELLMATT MUNRO& MORE TELL USWHY THEY LOVE SOUTH BELFAST

SPORTINGLIFEWHAT’S GOING ON INSOUTH BELFAST’S BUSY SPORTING WORLD

DINING IN THE CITY ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO EATING OUT IN SOUTH BELFAST

AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION LifeEAST

AN ULSTER TATLER GROUP PUBLICATION EASTBelfast

AUTUMN 2015 | £2.00 WHERE SOLD

Welcome to the Autumn/Winter issue of East Belfast Life! In this edition we chat to Katie Waddell, who has helped bring a taste of the USA to east Belfast in the form of Spoon Street in Ballyhackamore. We also catch up with local historian Aidan Campbell. Aidan has provided us with many great articles on the history of east Belfast, but in this issue he tells us exactly what he loves about the area.

The EastSide Arts Festival was a tremendous success and we have a fantastic range of coverage from a host of different events inside. Of course we were there as musical legend Van Morrison returned to his roots to play an iconic concert on Cyprus Avenue.

Both locals and visitors to east Belfast are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. In this issue we feature a number of the areas most popular eateries, as well as some new kids on the block. If you are not hungry now, you soon will be!

We hope you enjoy our latest issue, and if you know of a story or event in the area that you think should be covered, please feel free to get in touch.

We hope you enjoy this issue!

our coVErPeel Fashion Store107 Bloomfield AvenueBelfast BT5 5ABTel: 028 9045 2665

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02 East Belfast Life

East Belfast : PeoPLe in ProfiLe

Aidan Campbell, a retired business consultant and local historian tell us….

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE?I retired due to ill-health in 2008 following surgery on a brain tumour. Part of my recovery has been to write local history books about areas of east Belfast to raise funds for a range of local charities including Marie Curie Cancer Care, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Multiple Sclerosis, Missions to Seafarers and Cancer Research. My books are on sale at Hillmount Garden Centre, Marie Curie Hospice, Hamilton News Cregagh, The Wingrove at Ballyhackamore and online at Amazon.

Before that I was a self-employed business consultant for about 15 years, focusing on communication and customer care skills. I previously worked in corporate life for large business organisations.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK?Since I retired I don’t have the routine of a regular working day and

lack the energy and resilience that I used to have. But I set myself the objective of publishing at least one local history book annually. So a good portion of my time is carrying out research, conducting interviews and following up on leads (so if anybody out there has old photos or other historical materials about east Belfast – please make contact). I also deliver talks on my books with a powerpoint presentation to local groups and I write a local history column for the local press and occasionally act as a tour guide on bus tours.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME?I spend a lot of my relaxation time with my wife Christine and get a lot of pleasure from family get-togethers and going to the theatre. I became a grandparent a few years ago and it is difficult to believe that my grandson Samuel will be starting school this September. We have maintained our contact with a walking club and although I don’t walk

“WHY I LOVE... East BELFast”

The Sam Thompson Memorial Bridge has added new life to Victoria Park.



with them now I entertain them with a quiz at our monthly gathering. I also spend time as a volunteer at Marie Curie Cancer Care and recently received an award for 15 years of service.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST?I have good neighbours where I live in the Knock area and we have great friends at Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church. I attend Gilnahirk Men’s Group (new members welcome) which is a weekly get together of retired gentleman where we have a cuppa, a chat and an interesting visiting speaker. I have just received the programme and am looking forward to the monthly meetings of the East Belfast Historical Society which are held in the Belmont Tower. So there is a lot of social activity happening in east Belfast.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GET OUT & ABOUT IN EAST BELFAST? The Stormont Estate and the Comber Greenway are great places for a dander and Hillmount Garden Centre is a great place for a coffee.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? I like Victoria Park which has been recently renovated. It is a very lively place, especially during the good weather. There is a great range of bird life including swans, geese, ducks, moorhens and herons, a new walkway, the Sam Thompson Bridge and lots of life and fun and games at the children’s play park. As it is close to Belfast City Airport, it is also a great place for plane spotting.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY?I like Horatio Todd’s at Ballyhackamore. They did a great job a while back when establishing the restaurant under the theme of a well-known east Belfast dispensing chemist who lived in the area years ago. Lots of old memorabilia in display cabinets and on menus and great service and food too. Worth a visit.

Stormont Estate - “A great place for a dander.”

Aidan loves the coffee at Hillmount Garden Centre (above).

“

”

There is alot of socialactivityhappeningin eastBelfast.


East Belfast : SociaL

Vantastic DayVan Morrison returned to Cyprus Avenue, the quiet, leafy street which inspired one of his most iconic songs, to play two gigs to mark his 70th birthday. The double concert brought the EastSide Arts Festival to a close in spectacular fashion, as Van wowed the crowd that had travelled from all over the world to be there on this most special of occasions. Among those in attendance were A-List stars Robert Pattinson, Kim Cattrall and Chrissie Hynde. Van was on great form as he belted out his hits and other fan favourite songs during a never to be forgotten day in east Belfast.

01. Chrissie Hynde at the famous Cyprus Avenue sign. 02. Van Morrison performs on Cyprus Avenue. 03. Stuart Bailie and Colin Carberry. 04. Judith Johnston, Stephen Martin, Richard Sproule and Debra Castles.05. Patrick Hart, Fergus McIlwaine, Paul Acheson, Andrew McClure and Daniel Acheson.06. Arlene Foster MLA with Lily Dawe, Jenny Atchinson and Laura Scoffield07. Stephen and Joanne McCarthy.08. Jayne McFall, Erica McClure and Des McFall.

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Marie Curie Celebrates 50 YearsMarie Curie, Northern Ireland’s leading charity for people with any terminal illness, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of hospice care in Northern Ireland. One of the many events held throughout the year was a gala dinner at The Stormont Hotel (pictured). Marie Curie nurses work across Northern Ireland, providing care in the community and at its Hospice facility here in east Belfast. Anne Hannan, Sales and Partnership Manager, Marie Curie said: “2015 marks a special year for Marie Curie for two reasons. Firstly, the charity will be celebrating 50 years of Hospice care in Northern Ireland, and secondly it will be providing care for people living with any terminal illness irrespective of diagnoses.”

01. Diane and Kylie Atkinson.02. Christine Lindsay, Nikki Hamilton, Claire Sloan, Linda Cobain, Jenni Morrison, Lee Harris, Tracy King and Sharon Boyd.03. Paula Heneghan, Keith Scott and Miriam McKeown.04. Miriam McKeown, Marie Morrissey, Ann Rea, Janet Leitch, Joanne Gallagher, Ruth Hamblin, Meta Halliday and Angela McAleer.05. Paula Heneghan, Miriam McKeown and Berni Hardman.06. Janine Nesbitt, Andrea Henry and Kim Surginor.07. Berni Hardman, Jennifer Doherty, Miriam McKeown and Paula Heneghan.

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08. Anne Close and Colin Innis.09. Miriam McKeown, Charlotte Drejmyr and Kerry McGrillen.10. Allan Cooley and Ken Dickson.11. Catherine Blakely and Brendan O’Hara.12. Trudy Getgood, Joy Spreadborough, Janis McCulla and Alice McCrory.13. Christine Lindsay and Nikki Hamilton.14. Tracy King, Emma Darragh and Sharon Boyd.15. Lucille Cullen, Roseanna Comiskey and Alice McCrory.16. Jennifer Doherty and Stephen Patton.

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Continued from page 06

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Family Fun DayThe sun shone bright in the east as crowds gathered at Orangefield Park to join in the celebrations of the EastSide Arts Festival. During a fun filled day for all the family there was wildlife, music, street theatre, tree carving, reading, craft workshops, outdoor activi-ties, an outdoor art gallery ,football, face painting, circuis acts and much, much more.

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01. Holly Knox and Jemima Owen-Brown.02. Julia Cross and DJ Venus.03. The Sutton family.04. Mandy Dallas, Sam Fitzpatrick and Sara Lyons.05. Victor Rainey, Margaret Rodgers and Leonard Copeland. 06. Robert Clarke, Michael McCorry and Andy Ross. 07. Mohammed Odeh and family pictured with the ‘Orangefield mountain gorilla’ and ‘keeper’ Sara Edward.08. Matt Curry, Sean Brannigan, Wendy Langham, Stephanie Meenagh, Sammy Douglas MLA and Elliott Nixon.

09. Orangefield Fun Day. 10. Ashley Ewing, Marc Ewing and Jo Herbert with Philip Montgomery.11. Elliott Nixon with Laura McFall, Jackie Johnston, Rachel, Matt and Matilda and Melissa.12. Tabitha Smyth, Rebecca Atkinson, Ashlene Nickell and Emma Dallas.13. The Connswater Duck with family bowlers.14. Edna, Lucy, Courtney and Shannon Burton with Jamie and Danielle Graham.15. Ian Simpson and son Ryan.16. Avoniel community gardeners.17. Conor, Ruth and Patsy Fitzpatrick, Kier Monro, Cathy Fitzpatrick, Thomas Monro, Sharyn Ruseckas, Charlotte Nixon and Hannah and David Nixon.



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East Belfast : Social

12 East Belfast life

Award Winning ParkKnocknagoney Park was recently announced as the latest Belfast park to receive the Green Flag Award which recognises the best green spaces in the UK.

Knocknagoney is the 15th park to receive the award in Belfast, with the 14 other parks retaining their awards from previous years.

The Green Flag Awards are judged by volunteer expert judges who visit sites and assess against eight set criteria, including cleanliness, sustainability and conservation.

Councillor Julie Anne Corr Johnston, Chair of the People and Communities Committee, congratulated staff and the community who supported them in their achievement: “Parks are first and foremost community spaces to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike and the fact that our standards have been recognised as among the best is a big boost for Belfast,” said Councillor Corr Johnston.

“It is an achievement for staff who work hard every day to maintain these standards. It is also a signal to local communities of just how much of an asset their local park can be –

offering space for everything from exercise to fun, free family events, to learning about our environment.

“Many of these awards have been achieved by local parks, not just the bigger ones which host major events such as Rose Week or Féile an Phobaíl. It is because local communities are working with us to make them the best they can be for everyone in the community that parks are prospering.”

The Belfast parks that have retained their awards are Botanic Gardens; Barnett Demesne; Belmont Grove; Cavehill Country Park; Dunville; Lagan Meadows; Musgrave; Ormeau; Falls; Roselawn Cemetery; Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park; Woodvale and Waterworks Park.

Minister of the Environment Mark H. Durkan said:“Parks enhance the quality of life for so many of us, particularly those living in urban areas.”

Knocknagoney Park, just off the Holywood Road, was recently awarded Green Flag status.

Specsavers launches fabulousDisney Frozen frames

Fans of Disney’s Frozen in east Belfast can channel their inner Elsa, Anna or Olaf with Specsavers’ new range of children’s glasses featuring the iconic characters. The opticians has teamed up with Disney UK to launch the collection of four styles, which will be available in Specsavers stores nationwide from Wednesday 2 September.

Priced at £64 and free for under-16s with an NHS optical voucher, your child can also choose an additional free pair of frames in Specsavers’ kids get two free pairs offer. So whether your little one wants to ‘Let It Go’ or ‘Build a Snowman’ there is a pair of specs for every occasion. Paula Cunningham, store director at Connswater Specsavers, said: “We’re so excited to be launching these new glasses. Frozen is a Disney classic and there is no doubt that children in east Belfast will be thrilled to show off their favourite characters on their specs.”

The Frozen glasses join the existing Disney range at Specsavers, featuring such iconic characters as Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, The Little Mermaid’s Ariel and Cinderella. At Specsavers all under-16s get a free NHS eye test. All glasses in Specsavers’ kids’ £64 and teens’ £85 ranges are free with under-16s’ NHS funding.

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East Belfast : FASHION

Sleeveless blouse, RRP £125 now £40 (L.K.Bennett at The OUTLET, Banbridge).

Loose shirt, £45 (Phase Eight, Victoria Square).

Suede pocket shirt by Boutique, £55 (Topshop at Rushmere Shopping Centre).

Tempest white shirt, £25 (Menarys).

White top, £25 (Olsen at The OUTLET, Banbridge).

White patterned shirt, £99

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Q Radio Presenter & Club DJ Ryan A tells us...

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE?I have always loved music and I remember starting out in my career very young and soon realised how hard it is to knock on doors for a job. I had a passion for DJ-ing from the age of 13 but it wasn’t until I was 19 that I took small steps into the radio industry. I started working with community stations helping out on radio shows and finding my voice as a presenter.

On Saturday nights, I was the club warm up for Cool FM DJ Paul Kennedy (PK); he knew how keen I was to work in radio and he gave me the best advice on demo making. I then started working in Cool FM for a few years and the doors started opening and I started getting recognised - it became real! Throughout my 15 years in radio, I have played music in front of thousands but becoming a mainline presenter on Q Radio recently has been a big highlight in my career to date. I am looking forward to what the future holds.

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK?Currently there isn’t a typical day at work for me– in Radio no day is ever the same! There may be a typical week but it’s far from a normal 9-5 working day. Most of my days are spent in the office, I will start

off with prep for my radio show and research the local news, celebrity gossip and check social media to find the latest news to talk about on my show. After this, I will then music prep for the nightclub where I will be DJing that evening. Then grab dinner and hit gym at some point!

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME?I can’t remember the last time I said, “Ahhh I’ve nothing to do today, let’s get some beers!” Spare time is hard to find when you work in radio all day and then playing music in a nightclub. I live with my girlfriend Jenny and our wee pup Harvey, so we like to try and get out as much as possible. We love to take Harvey to my mum and stepdads holiday home, out for lunch or sometimes i’ll get trailed around the shops. On the nights I do manage to get off we stick on a movie or recently we have been playing cards (it has turned out to be a great idea).

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN EAST BELFAST?I’ve always found east Belfast a very friendly and welcoming place - especially where I live in Dundonald - it’s not a huge village but it is very popular. When I walk down the road, I will always bump into someone that I know. I also love the fact that I am surrounded by family and friends who are either within walking distance or a five minute drive away.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO SOCIALISE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? When I manage to get some spare time, my girlfriend and I like to get a few mates together and play mini golf at Pirates Adventure Golf or head to Ten Pin Bowling at Dundonald Icebowl. We will then head out afterwards for a few drinks or grab some food. This is always a good night out with friends.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? I’m a huge fan of heading out with a mate for a coffee and getting a catch up. I will meet up with my good friend Steven once a week for a chat and we will head to Cream Café Bistro in Dundonald. Good spot!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY?My favourite restaurant has to be Wolfe’s restaurant in Dundonald. I love American style food (big portions) and a good feed. Me and my mates Aaron and Steven go regularly and their food hits the spot every time.


In his rare free time Ryan A enjoys Adventure Golf and Ten Pin Bowling with friends at Dundonald Ice Bowl.

Ryan loves catching up with friends over a good coffee at Cream Cafe Bistro, Dundonald.



A Cause for CelebrationCrossroads Caring for Carers, Upper Newtownards Road, recently celebratted its 21st Anniversary with a family BBQ day. Crossroads is a Northern Ireland based charity that provided respite care for carers, who provide care for elderly, frail, ill or disabled friend or relative. Crossroads aim to meet the needs of carers by providing them with a much-needed break whilst providing peace of mind that their loved one is well taken care of by a Crossroads care attendant.

01. Evelyn Sutthakoran, Marian Traynor, David and Mandy McCreight and Esther Stewart. 02. Shari Michael and Marleen Davison.03. Ben, David and Kara McCreight.04. Anne Gallagher, Esther Stewart, Rachael Gallagher, Lorna Martin and Marian Traynor.05. Bob, Lorna, Hannah and Katie Trotter.06. Brian and Christine Best with James Warnock, Richard Best, Catherine Bell and Tim Warnock.07. Allison Campbell and Marian Traynor with helpers cut the Crossroads for Carers 21st birthday cake.08. Janette Whitehouse, Lyndsay Graham, Gail Hayes, Richard Best, Christine Best, Allison Campbell and Rachel Creighton.

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Museum of Orange Heritage OpensA museum dedicated to the history of the Orange Order has opened on the Cregagh Road. The Museum of Orange Heritage features interactive exhibitions and visitors will also be able to view a range of items and artifacts which tell the history of Orangeism. The museum forms a part of the REACH project (Reaching out through Education and Cultural Heritage) which received funding from the EU’s PEACE III Programme, and aims to promote shared space and greater levels of reconciliation through education.

01. The Museum of Orange Heritage. 02. Mike Nesbitt MLA with Martin McAleese and former Irish President Mary McAleese.03. PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton at the opening ceremony.04. Williamite and Jacobite soldiers Paul Breen and James Adair05. Belfast Boys Model band welcome guests06. Mervyn Storey MLA officially opens the Orange Heritage Museum.

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East Belfast life 19


East Belfast : HISTORY

Gelston’s Corner East Belfast – At the CrossroadsGelston’s Corner is a well-known junction in east Belfast. The Holywood Road is the main arterial route through the area but several other roads meet there including Belmont Road, Dundela Crescent and Pim’s Avenue. Some landmarks are Dundela FC, Park Avenue Hotel, Strand Arts Centre and St Mark’s, Dundela. But how has the locality changed over the years?

The townland of Strandtown straddles the Belmont and Holywood Roads and originally reached the sandy beach, or strand, at Belfast Lough. No traders were recorded in 1859 when the village is named Sydenham and Strandtown was first recognised as a village in the Belfast and Ulster Street Directory of 1861. Records show that James Gelston is listed in this vicinity as a ‘grocer and spirit dealer’. By 1877 Mrs Gelston is listed with the description of ‘inn keeper, grocery and provision store’ and by 1880 Hugh Gelston is described as ‘grocer and publican’ with premises called ‘The Corner’. So the name has survived.

relay raceAn interesting occasion at Gelston’s Corner (below) in 1924 has drawn a few spectators in the days when outdoor events were

more common than they are today. Scouts from various troops, including the local 10th, based at Oakland Avenue, line up for the Belfast Open Senior Relay Race from Belfast to Bangor.

These are the first runners from each of the competing Troops. Each boy ran a mile before passing the dispatch to the next boy in his team. The winner was the first team to deliver the message to the


East Belfast : HISTORY

mayor or local dignitary at the final destination which was usually Bangor, but sometimes it could be as far away as Carrickfergus.

picture perfectA view from Gelston’s Corner (inset Pg 20) looking along Holywood Road in 1930 towards Belfast on the left and Pim’s Avenue on the right. The small castellated building is the gatelodge of ‘Strandtown House’, home of James Alexander Morrison Heyn well-known for being owner of the Ulster Steamship Company also known as the ‘Head Line’. The site was chosen for the construction of the new Strand Cinema in 1936.

the changing faceA fairly quiet scene at Gelston’s Corner (top of page), probably during the First World Years. The grand pillars at the doorway to the Balmer premises at 2 Belmont Road are nicely captured, as is

the old Strandtown National School, which moved to spacious new premises on North Road in 1931.

The school building had been constructed in 1863 as a ‘Chapel of Ease’ for the local Church of Ireland congregation before St. Mark’s Dundela was consecrated in 1878. The three gentlemen sitting on the kerbside seem relatively untroubled by passing traffic. The same view of Gelston’s Corner (above inset) in the 1980s, with Dundela Crescent to the right. The old Strandtown National School site is now occupied by Stewarts Supermarkets.

The premises have been remodelled although part of the rear of the old school building remains. The single car looks like an Austin Allegro, which was a small family car manufactured by British Leyland under the Austin name from 1973 until 1983, and often suffered from a poor reputation.

Aidan Campbell has

previously published 9 East

Belfast local history books,

including one on Belmont

(above). Profits are donated

to various local charities. He

regularly gives illustrated

talks to groups and societies.

The books retail at £10.00

each and are on sale at

Hillmount Garden Centre,

Gilnahirk and Marie Curie

Hospice.

www.eastbelfasthistory.com

LefT: Looking along Belmont Road in 1930 and the tram approaching the camera is a ‘Chamberlain’ model which was known as a very durable type and introduced by eponymous and newly appointed tramway General Manager, William Chamberlain. The shop on the corner of Ranfurley Drive (to the far right) is occupied by Belmont Boot Repairs, proprietor W.H. Legge. A close look with a magnifying glass at the shop window and gable wall reveals that the premises were also a ‘receiving office’ for the Glen Laundry back in the days before washing machines were widely

LefT: By 2006 Legge Brothers was closed and the premises were available for rental as the signage declares. It had survived for nearly 90 years and had been a very successful boot and shoe business at the hub of the Strandtown retailing network, which was largely composed of independent retailers. Many people in the area remember going to Legge’s every year to get new school shoes during the back-to-school period for the Autumn term. But retail patterns were changing with the development of large shopping centres and national chains. Legge’s was demolished and Café Smart now occupies the site. It is one of many great restaurants, coffee shops and eateries at Strandtown today.

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East Belfast : Community WatCh

Awards Night Honours Dundonald Sea CadetsThe Lloyds Bank Foundation recently announced the six charities from Northern Ireland which have been shortlisted for the UK Final of the Charity Achievement Awards and will be travelling to London for a prestigious awards ceremony on 8th October 2015. The Charity Achievement Awards have been created to recognise the amazing, life changing work of small and medium sized charities.

Amonst those representing Northern Ireland will be the Dundonald Sea Cadets, who won the ‘Against The Odds’ category. In 2011 this group, which aims to support young people towards responsible adulthood, faced closure. With just £82 in the bank, Hector Wanliss, a retired naval Commanding Officer came on board. He got a team together to revive the unit, and managed to turn the charity around. Lloyds Bank Foundation was one of the first grants they received, giving them the boost they needed and they now have a turnover of £50,000 and £40,000 in assets.

Dundonald Sea Cadets will now compete against charities from across England, Wales and the Channel Islands, with 6 overall winners to be announced at Banking Hall, the historic London Headquarters of Lloyds Bank. Speaking after the NI Awards Ceremony April Dalzell from Dundonald Sea Cadets said:

“We are over the moon to have won our category, Against the Odds. The Lloyds Foundation helped get us back on our feet and gave our unit a real boost when we needed

it most. It’s great seeing our volunteers’ efforts being recognised in this way.It would be fantastic if we were able to bring home the National Award from London!”

Lloyds Bank Foundation NI Executive Director Sandara Kelso-Robb (left) with April Dalzell from Dundonald Sea Cadets, which won the Against the Odds category at the first ever Lloyds Bank Foundation Charity Achievement Awards for NI .

In September 2012, Ashfield Girls’ High School set out to raise £10,000 to build an Education and Livelihood Centre in the Philippines as part of a three year project with TEN Foundation.

he new centre will educate local children who have not had the privilege of attending school and will also provide employment skills to adults, helping them find work and support their families.

Over the past three years, Ian Campbell, CEO of TEN Foundation, has been a frequent visitor to Ashfield Girls’ regularly updating

pupils on the living conditions in the Philippines and in particular the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan in December 2014.

Having participated in a wide range of fundraising events including bun sales, sponsored walks, non-uniform days and talent competitions, pupils and staff of Ashfield were delighted to present Ian and TEN Foundation with £10,000 in a recent special ceremony. Having surpassed their first target, the school has now committed to help support TEN Foundation with a scholarship programme, by raising £1,000 per year to support TEN Foundation and educate a young person at the Education and Livelihood Centre.

Ashfield Girls’ Giving Globally

Miss J Rees (Charity Co-Ordinator), Katie Armstrong (Belfast), Kym

Mitchell (Bangor), Sophie Lemon (Dundonald), Mia Green (Holywood),

Chloe Hunston (Bangor), Ian Campbell (CEO TEN Foundation) and Mrs A

Mungavin (Principal).


East Belfast : Community WatCh

Awards Night Honours Dundonald Sea Cadets Remembering VJ DayWorld War II veterans from east Belfast were VIP guests at a civic lunch held at Belfast City Hall on 2nd September. The special event marked the 70th anniversary of the ending of the Second World War.

East Belfast veterans, and relatives and friends acting on their behalf, were urged to contact Belfast City Council in the run up to the celebration with details of their wartime service so they could be invited along to the special event. Although VJ Day was marked on 15 August with a national commemoration in London, Belfast City Council - in consultation with the Royal British Legion - agreed to delay commemorations in Belfast to allow key local veterans to be part of the London event.

The date of 2 September was chosen for the Belfast Civic Lunch as it marks the signing of the surrender document which formalised the end of World War II. This signing took place on the deck of USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.Residents of Somme Nursing Home in east Belfast with their invitation for the Civic Lunch at Belfast City Hall

on 2 September to commemorate VJ Day.

The team from the Glentoran Gazettee and members of the Glentoran supporters Committee (1923) receiving the award from NIFPCC Chairman, David Hand.

Another Award for the Glentoran GazetteThe Glentoran Gazette once again picked up the NIFPCC Programme of the Year Award. The achievement marks an incredible 15 victories in a row for the untouchable Gazette. The award was particulary poignant as long term designer Clifford Logan stepped down at the end of the season, with the April issue being his last to design.

The continued success has not gone to the heads of those involved, as the statement below suggests: “It is with great delight that we can now announce that the Glentoran Gazette has been chosen as the NIFPCC Programme of the Year for 2014/2015, making it a phenomenal 15 years in a row. On behalf of the Glentoran Supporters Committee (1923) may we extend our congratulations to our Editor Chris Holt and his team. The many long hours put in by them and in particular Clifford Logan, the Gazette designer, have been worth it.

We would also congratulate our sales team for their efforts all year and of course a big thank you to the many fans who continue to purchase the Gazette every week in great numbers. Plans are

already on board for next season, when it is hoped that we can add to what has proved such a winning formula. Once again, well done Chris, Clifford and the Gazette team.”


East Belfast : SOCIAL

Good SportsInspired by the performance of a rival player the Castlereagh Glentoran Supporters Club set up an annual award for the most outstanding player of each season in Irish League Football.

In 1949 a group of Glentoran supporters from the Castlereagh area, who had recently formed a new club, travelled to the Brandywell for a match with Derry City. The group were so impressed with the performance of Derry winger Jimmy Delaney that they somehow acquired the match ball and presented it to Delaney as a token of their esteem. Inspired by this act of sportsmanship they decided to commission a trophy and present it on an annual basis to the outstanding Irish League player each season – and so the Castlereagh Glentoran Supporters Club Ulster Footballer of the Year award was born.

To avoid any accusation of bias they sought an independent panel to choose the winner – legendary figures from the local press, former players, referees and other footballing dignitaries. The late, great football journalist Dr Malcolm Brodie could see what the club were trying to achieve in terms of looking beyond their own club and the environs of east Belfast and he helped them to promote the award every season.

In his column in the Belfast Telegraph, Malcolm championed the trophy, becoming the club’s patron and giving it the gravitas that would have been sorely lacking without his support. The club were also fortunate in the selection of football legend Billy

Neill as chairman of the selection panel. Under his stewardship the award gained further credibility and a reputation for genuine sportsmanship.

That mantle was taken up some years ago by Bobby Carlisle who has proven to be a true friend to the club, an outstanding advocate for the award and enthusiastic supporter of local football. The initial winner in 1951 was Dr Kevin McGarry, a G.P. from North Belfast who played for Cliftonville and just happens to be the uncle of local comedian Tim McGarry, who has become a good friend to the club.

Castlereagh Glentoran Supporters Club have gained a reputation for promoting their award in a non-partisan and non-sectarian manner and that continued as such throughout all the years of N Ireland’s “Troubles”.

Now in it’s 65th year the award bears the names of the all-time ‘greats’ of Irish League football. The club are to be commended for the manner in which they continue to promote the trophy. Under the Chairmanship of David Stewart, they are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to keep the award at the forefront of the local game.

David Stewart, Jordan Stewart (Glentoran Player of the Year), Paul Heatley (Crusaders - Ulster Footballer of the Year), Gary Campbell and Darren Flanagan.

Malcolm Brodie, a great friend of the Castlereagh Supporters Club presents an article of his to the board of Glentoran, prior to the team’s legendary tour of North America in 1967.



The Ultimate Player AwardThe La Mon Hotel was the venue for the recent 65th Ulster Footballer of the Year Awards Dinner. Paul Heatley of Crusaders FC won the annual award, organised by Castlereagh Glentoran Supporters Club and sponsored this year by Piacetto Espresso Coffee. Heatley was the outstanding candidate and the 27-year old was instrumental in Crusaders clinching the Irish League trophy. He joins an illustrious list of former winners and was congratulated on his success by Irish Football Association President, Jim Shaw, who was the principal guest. David Stewart, Castlereagh GSC Chairman, commented that: “this was another significant night in the history of the ultimate player award”.

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01. Jim Shaw (IFA President), Ruth Gorman, Paul Heatley and Bobby Carlisle.02. Mr and Mrs Jim Gracey, Mr and Mrs Lindsay McKeown and Mr and Mrs Alan Snoddy.03. Mr & Mrs Stephen Baxter. 04. Rose North and David Jeffrey.05. Paul Allen and Edwin Addison06. John McCoy, Elaine Niblock, Ken Moody, June McCoy, Ann McClinton and Terry McClinton.


East Belfast : Spotlight

harland Youth FC have found the perfect way to relax after a tough season. players and staff from the club got together on the River lagan to enjoy an evening of fun water activities thanks to Bryson lagan Sports. Coach at harland Youth, William Sale said: “it was a great way for the kids to enjoy themselves after all the hard work they have put in this year. they really enjoyed it, and so did the adults. it was a perfect team building exercise and something we would absolutely do again.”

“Cyprus Avenue is our Penny Lane, our Strawberry Fields, our Waterloo Sunset. And Van Morrison is our Paul McCartney, our John Lennon, our Ray Davies. Iconic artist in his inspirational location. On his birthday. Magical.” Stuart Bailie, music writer and broadcaster.

up the lagan in a bubble


East Belfast : Spotlight

Action on hearing loss Northern ireland (formerly known as RNiD) recently held its third annual Divis Mountain 10k run/walk, and was lucky to have a group of enthusiastic east Belfast runners from orangegrove Athletics Club taking on the challenge! the runners had a very special reason for competing in the Divis Mountain 10k run this year, to support their friend lynn Coles, who has a hearing loss and wears two hearing aids to enhance her hearing. lynn also attended a lip reading course (a vital skill for people with acquired hearing loss) at Action on hearing loss which benefitted her in terms of improved communication skills, and also enhanced her self-confidence. the group wanted to help lynn and people like her, because they know someone who is affected by a hearing loss. lynn and her husband also recently travelled to Yorkshire to visit hearing Dogs for Deaf people to do the 5 day intensive training with her hearing Dog, Edna, a black labrador. Edna also “competed” on the day with lynn to support her on her Divis 10k adventure. Sian Devlin, Fundraising Executive at Action on hearing loss said: “We are delighted with how successful our Divis Mountain 10k event was this year, to date we have raised £2500 and are expecting around £3000 in total. it will help us continue to raise awareness and much needed funds for the charity. i think the support the orangegrove AC runners are showing to their team mate lynn this year is an inspiration to us all, and will hopefully encourage others to sign up for further events in future.” For more information on the Divis Mountain 10k run/walk, or for other ways to get involved in fundraising or for information on Action on hearing loss in Northern ireland, please visit: www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk.For more more information on orangegrove AC please visit orangegroveac.co.uk.

EAST BELFAST runners come out in force to support their friend and local charity

keep on running



Having a LaughTim McGarry from Give My Head Peace turned a very satirical eye on Irish history for his solo stand up show as part of the East-Side Arts Festival. Tim’s ‘Irish History Lesson’ staged at the Park Avenue Hotel was an irreverent look at everything we think we know about history. He covered every event from the English invasion to the Welfare Reform and everyone from Saint Patrick to Jamie Dornan. Nobody escaped Tim’s comic wrath, on this laughter filled evening.

01. Helen Parry and Grace Doig. 02. Stewart and Jenna Robinson. 03. Clare and Jane Boyd. 04. Tim McGarry has the audience in stitches. 05. Robert and Sharon Robinson.06. Stephen and Joy McMaster. 07. Ross Gregg, Rhonda and Jacqueline Wightman and Paul Waters. 08. Norma McQuitty with Chris and Gail Mack.

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Prize Day at Lagan CollegeThe Lagan College Senior and Junior Prize Days were held recently. The two ceremonies celebrated the achievements of all students within the school. Guest speakers at the respective ceremonies were Dr. David Dobbin (CEO United Dairy Farmers, Chairman Ulster Rugby Management Committee) and Olympic sailor, Matthew McGovern.

01. Principal Amanda McNamee, Carter Wickham and Matthew McGovern.02. Patricia Talens with her mother and Matthew McGovern03. Richard Sherry, Amy Sherry and Matthew McGovern.04. Ben McKeown, who opened the senior ceremony playing his own composition with his award winning band05. Dr David Dobbin CBE, Keeva Herink and Principal Amanda McNamee. 06. Kirstie Morrow – winner of the All Children Together Millennium Award.

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iPad Launch DayLagan College recently launched one:one iPad deployment to all Year 9 students – the first step in a whole school rollout which will encompass over 1200 pupils. Year 9 students now have their own individual iPads for completing assignments, browsing educational websites, doing independent research, reading eBooks and interactive textbooks, not to mention the huge possibilities afforded to art, media and music classes.Introduced as part of an evolving, blended approach to learning, Principal Amanda McNamee said: “This is an exciting occasion for staff and students alike. We fully appreciate the investment made by our parents in their child’s life long learning in the technological age. iPads will not replace traditional teaching and learning methods but serve to enhance a students’ capacity to learn in a more independent way”. The move follows significant research and investment in infrastructure, staff training and technology throughout Lagan College, particularly since moving into a new state of the art facility in June 2013. As Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school, Lagan College has a proven history of adapting and progressing within a changing environment.

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Ulster Rugby Kit LaunchThe sun was shining at the Kingspan Stadium for the recent unveiling of the new Ulster Rugby kit for the 2015/2016 season.DJ Stephen Clements entertained the large crowd of fans who turned out and ten of Ulster’s international players were present including Tommy Bowe, Rory Best and Paddy Jackson.

01. Ulster Rugby stars Tommy Bowe, Rory Best and Andrew Trimble in the new 2015-17 home kit.02. Dad Darren Grant with boys Charlie, Harry and Ollie.03. David and Ruth Shivers.04. Wesley Cull, Karen Patterson, Stephen McDowell, Elizabeth Patterson and William Patterson.05. Claire Rutherford, Geoff Angus, Margaret and Melissa Ramm.

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East Belfast : REMEMBERS

A Service of Thanksgiving for the life of Ruth Barnett Baker was held at St. Molua’s Church in the Parish of Stormont on Friday 8th May. Ruth, who penned many articles for Ulster Tatler and also made contributions to the ‘Literary Miscellany’ section of the magazine, died peacefully in hospital on 2nd May 2015.

Born in north Wales in 1926, Ruth and her family moved back to Northern Ireland in 1930 for her father to take up a medical position at the Royal Victoria Hospital. She lived with her family in University Square until the outbreak of World War 2, when she was sent to Hillcourt School, near Dublin, as a boarder.

With her father a member of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Ruth and her family eventually moved to Bristol (where her father was based), and at aged 17 she passed her Senior Certificate at Clifton High School.

Ruth would return to Dublin to continue her education at Trinity College, where she undertook a 4 year course in Modern Languages (French and English). After obtaining her B.A., Ruth taught for a term at Princess Gardens School, Belfast.

Deciding that teaching was not for her Ruth applied for and was accepted to the Cours de Civilisation Fracaise at the Sorbonne in Paris in 1949. A year later she met her future husband, Brian Baker, who was spending a fortnight in Paris during time off as a teacher at Cabin Hill Prep, Belfast. Ruth passed her certificate and moved back to Belfast later in 1950, where she obtained a job as a reporter for the Belfast News Letter.

In 1951 Ruth married Brian Baker in Knockbreda Parish Church and in June that year they moved into their newly bought house in Earlswood Road, east Belfast, where they would live for 7 years.

The couple had their first child, Allison Jane, in 1954. Earlier that year Ruth had given up her job at the New Letter and had began to write a monthly social column in the Irish Tatler. In 1958 Ruth and her family moved across east Belfast to Castlehill Road and in 1960 her youngest daughter, Susan Denise, was born.

By 1967 Ruth was writing regularly for Ulster Tatler and was a contributor to Sam Hanna Bell’s ‘Literary Miscellany’. On her

husband Brian’s retirement in 1983 the couple joined the Bronte Society and both gave talks on the Brontes to local organisations. Ruth’s interest in the Brontes lead to her writing the foreword to ‘The Brontes in Ireland’ which was published by the Irish section of the Bronte Society in 2004.

Sadly this came just after her husband Brian passed away, after 52 years of wonderfully happy married life. Ruth enriched the lives of readers through her writing for many years, and contribution to the Ulster Tatler will never be forgotten.

An article by Ruth Barnett Baker that appeared in Ulster Tatler in June 1969.

EAST BELFAST Life remembers Ulster Tatler Columnist and former east Belfast resident Ruth Barnett Baker

A Life in words


East Belfast : NEWS

EAST BELFAST SOCIALENTERPRISE HUB - HELPING TO GROW THRIVING COMMUNITY BUSINESSESEast Belfast Social Enterprise Hub offers free business support to groups and individuals who need help to turn their business idea into reality! The Social Enterprise Hub is based at 14-16 Castlereagh Road and has a fully equipped training suite, meeting rooms and a trading unit for clients who are ready to start test trading. It aims to support individuals and local groups who are interested in developing their social enterprise idea.

The hub is managed by East Belfast Mission who has a track record of running successful social enterprises. Lesley Johnston, Social Enterprise Hub Manager said: “I am keen to meet local groups and individuals throughout east Belfast to promote the Hub and the free support on offer. Experienced business advisors are available to offer mentoring support on various aspects of starting a social enterprise. There are opportunities for best practice visits, peer to peer support, training and networking with other groups – it’s a great time to sign up and receive expert advice at the Hub!” The East Belfast Social Enterprise Hub is one of eleven Hubs established across the nine Social Investment Fund zones under the Northern Ireland Executive’s Delivering Social Change framework. With £4million of funding from the Executive’s Delivering Social Change fund, the Social Enterprise Hub Signature Programme will address poverty, dereliction and unemployment by encouraging social enterprise business start-up within local communities.

The Hub is open Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 5pm.For more information ring 028 9045 5835 or email [email protected]

Lesley Johnston, East Belfast Social Enterprise Hub Manager, welcomes visitors to the hub.

ACAdEMIC SUCCESS AddS TO ExTRA-CURRICULAR ACHIEVEMENT AT RBAIRBAI has had an exceptionally successful year academically and in extra-curricular activities, with numerous individual and collective successes. Year 14 leavers Thomas Donaldson and Chris Hogg each achieved 3 A*s and 1 A while Ted Mackey and Deputy Head of School Louis Magowan attained 2 A* and 2 As each. Best wishes to all leavers as they embark upon their respective, diverse pathways, from taking up positions at Cambridge University to travelling on gap years. The AS results were also impressive with 11 boys achieving A grades in 4 subjects. Congratulations also to Year 12 on their excellent examination results; they have raised standards even further at RBAI. With over 75%

of all grades A*-B, and 15 departments at 100% A*- C, including Biology, History, Media Studies and, within Science, Astronomy, we have a lot to celebrate.

Royal Belfast academical institutioncollege squaRe east,Belfast, Bt1 6dltel: 028 9024 0461www.RBai.oRg.uk

Theo Millar performed extremely well in his GCSE exams achieving 10Astar and 2 A grades. Picture courtesy of Stephen Davison at Pacemaker Press.

Thomas Donaldson achieved 3 Astars and an A. Picture courtesyofKevin Scott.

Daniel Penney-Gallagher, Ross Macleod, Aaron Devine and Ben Sloan celebrate excellent GCSE results. Picture courtesy of Stephen Davison at Pacemaker Press.

Ted Mackey achieved 2A star grades and 2As he now looks forward to taking up his place at Cambridge University to read Music. Picture courtesy ofKevin Scott.


East Belfast : FASHION

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The Imagining MediumIn the mid twentieth century the radio was a tool through which Sam Hanna Bell (former editor of Ulster Tatler’s ‘Literary Miscellany’), Sam Thompson, W R Rodgers, and other writers with a strong east Belfast connection, imagined Northern Ireland. A talk and evening of listening to their programs, hosted by Philip Hanna Bell and held at Belmont Tower during the EastSide Arts Festival, revealed the enduring value of their work.

01. Andrew Dougal and Jack McCullough.02. Annette Lynall, Roger Courtney and Mathild Stevens.03. Dorothy Dunlop and Margaret Munro.04. Anthony Toner, Gaynor Kane, Anne Johnston and Roger Courtney.05. Brian and Evelyn Walker.06. Brian Garrett, Linda Hutchinson and Richard Robinson.07. Jane Cassidy and Maurice Layden.08. Philip Hanna-Bell, Angelique Day and Fergus Hanna-Bell.

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Margey to return to Culloden with Stunning new exhibition

After a phenomenally successful summer season at his pop-up gallery and studio space in Portrush, artist Adrian Margey is returning to the Culloden Estate & Spa Belfast with his annual exhibition and sale of work from Thursday 29th October – Sunday 1st November. Margey’s constant experimentation with colour and application of paint on canvas in recent years has made him one of the most collected young artists on the island

of Ireland today. His inventive approach to capturing Ireland’s landscapes, landmarks and musical traditions has set him apart from the crowd. This latest exhibition will not disappoint with over forty originals on sale. From depictions of North Down and Ards to the North Coast, Donegal and Belfast City, this eclectic exhibition is one not to be missed. The artist will be available throughout the exhibition to discuss commissions ahead of Christmas.

Opening Times: Thursday 29th October: 6pm – 9pm / Friday 30th & Saturday 31st October: 11am – 8pm / Sunday 1st November: 11am – 6pm. Visit www.adrianmargey.com or telephone 07841593762 for more information.

1. ‘Belfast City Hall’ by Adrian Margey. 2. ‘Midnight Dunluce’ by Adrian Margey.3. Artist Adrian Margey. 4. ‘Moonlit Ballintoy Tower’. 5. ‘Mournes Cottage’. 6. ‘Scrabo’.

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The first branch of Conradh na Gaeilge in Belfast (formerly known as The Gaelic League) was founded on 19 August 1895, and Irish language groups across the city recently celebrated this shared history. It was in 32 Upper Beersbridge Road that Dr John St Clair Boyd founded the city’s first branch of the League. Boyd, who was a prominent paediatric surgeon, and a member of the Church of Ireland, also provided the premises for the inaugural meeting; he was also appointed as the first chairperson of this branch. A bus tour, organised by TURAS, East Belfast Mission (under the direction of Gordon McCoy and East Belfast Life contributor and historian, Aidan Campbell), visited the main sites of these events as part of the celebration.

A display was then organised by Conradh na Gaeilge in the Skainos Centre, Newtownards Road, focusing on archival material and membership documents of Conradh na Gaeilge from Ulster during this period. Forbairt Feirste also held a celebration in the west of the city to mark 120 years of the Gaelic Revival in Belfast. The group convened at the gates of the City Graveyard, before moving towards the grave of Boyd, to commemorate the events of 1895.

Niall Comer (President of Comhaltas Uladh) said: “It is vitally important that the shared, cross-community history of Conradh na Gaeilge is recognised. We are very happy that this historic event will be celebrated across Belfast. Events like these illustrate the developments the Irish language has made in recent times, not only in Belfast, but across the north. It is no coincidence, looking at this history, that there is pioneering work ongoing today in east Belfast, and TURAS, and Linda Ervine, deserve great commendation for recognising and celebrating this shared heritage as it should be.” Dr John St Clair Boyd provided this building on Queen Street

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Into the MusicBBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean recently hosted a 70th birthday tribute to Van Morrison at The Park Avenue Hotel. The event, which was attended by Van fans from across the world, featured the likes of The 4 Of Us, Ken Haddock, The Clameens, Kaz Hawkins and others performing some iconic Van Morrison tunes.

01. Linley Hamilton, Ralph McLean and Anthony Toner.02. Performers at the Van Morrison tribute night. 03. Joseph Pond and Sinead Morrissey.04. Carol Brown and Shirley Gault.05. ‘Wookalilly’ band members.06. International Van fans visiting east Belfast; Bob Croll from Montreal, Tennessee boy Donnie Bell, Canadian Fred Durette, Lynn Bodkin, Gary ‘Boom’ Baker, singer Amanda St John, Al Bodkin and Rhiannah Warm.07. Maurice Kincaid and Sean Brannigan.08. Amanda St John and Kaz Hawkins.

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East Belfast is bursting with culinary delights,

so why not check out our guide and treat yourself

to gourmet heaven, east of the city.

East Belfast is bursting with choice

when it comes to food. Whether it’s a

quick coffee and sweet mid afternoon

treat you’re craving, a fantastic

sandwich to brighten up your lunch hour,

or a full three course meal with a bottle

of wine;

you’re sure to have a difficult choice on

your hands. To ease the agony, we’ve

carefully examined the best that

east Belfast has to offer. Our reviews

and summaries are sure to guide you

towards a pleasing taste and a satisfied

stomach.

EATING OUT:

EAST OF THE CITY


East Belfast : DINING OUT

East Belfast is bursting with culinary delights, so check out our guide and treat yourself to some delicious food, in the east of the city.

EATING OUT:EAST OF THE CITY

Arc cAfe(Orangefield Presbyterian church)Arc is a purpose built café run by the members of the church at Orangefield. It has fast become a popular eating spot in east Belfast during the day and on Thursday and Friday evenings it takes on a very different atmosphere often with live music events. Arc is a registered charity and surplus income goes to good causes both at home and overseas

464 Castlereagh RoadT: 028 9079 9391www.orangefield.org.uk

BennettsBennetts is a bright airy café serving great food and drink seven days a week. During the day it serves as a pleasant place for a quick lunch and a coffee and in the evenings it becomes an ambient cosy restaurant for a nice meal.

4 Belmont RoadT: 028 9065 6590

BUBs exPress BIsTrO cAfeA convenient cosy cafe situated beside Arches Library and East Belfast Health Centre, freshly baked scones and coffees combine with amazing local produce for a memorable Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner or snack on the go from Juicy Burgers and Pulled Pork to Mexican Fajitas and Tacos, available to dine in or take away, open Mon to Sat 8 AM– 8 PM.

18 Holywood RoadT: 028 9067 3549www.bubsbistrocafe.co.uk

BLUe chIcAGO GrILLBoasting a unique Blues Jazz Cafe environment with intimate cosy booths, Blue Chicago Grill offers simple traditional food with an American influence.

EastPoint Entertainment Village, Old Dundonald RoadT: 028 9048 2771www.bluechicagogrill.co.uk

cAfe smArTWith its attractive, eye catching interior displaying the work of some of the country’s most prominent artists, Cafe Smart is not just a coffee shop, it is an experience.

56 Belmont RoadT: 028 9047 1670www.cafesmart.co.uk

The four WindsSituated on the top floor, Grill at The Four Winds offers a panorama of Belfast City and beyond. Serving great food in excellent surrounding the Grill will ensure you enjoy your visit.

111 Newton ParkT: 028 9070 7970www.thefourwinds.co.uk

GAzeGaze restaurant serves a wide selection of Chinese dishes including both traditional favourites and modern specials. With a sumptuous decor and well priced food, this is a wonderful dining destination whatever the occasion.

EastPoint Entertainment Village, Old Dundonald Road T: 028 9048 1288

If you are looking for somewhere to eat out, check out our guide to some of the eateries available in east Belfast. With east Belfast being firmly established on the culinary map you couldn’t be more spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. Whether your are looking for a family friendly establishment, an intimate restaurant for a romantic meal, a catch-up with friends, or a quick cup of cof-

fee and a tasty delight, east Belfast is the place to be with its wide range of choice from cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and bars available to suit everyone and every pocket.

so why not pay a visit to east Belfast and discovera world of choice?

General merchantsA brand new Australian themed community café, specialising in coffee and seasonal food.

481 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9065 2708

EATING OUT:EAST OF THE CITY


East Belfast : DINING OUT

GrAzeNominated for best restaurant at the Ulster Tatler Awards, Graze is located in Ballyhackamore, at the heart of east Belfast. Graze serves seasonally-inspired cuisine and has a commitment to using local and sustainable foods.

8 Library Court, Newtownards Road, T: 028 9065 8658

hOrATIO TODDsThis firm favourite in the heart of east Belfast is the epitome of affordable quality. Tempting menus, delicious food, excellent service and comfortable retro surroundings - what more can you ask for!

406 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9065 3090www.horatiotodds.com

IL PIrATAWith its cool, trendy interior, Il Pirata offers simple rustic and Italian food. It is already a hit with the many visitors who come to Ballyhackamore seeking culinary delights

279-281, Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9067 3421

JAsmINe INDIAN resTAUrANTSituated in Ballyhackamore, Jasmine has established itself as a firm favourite with locals in east Belfast. With an extensive range of dishes on offer, the restaurant brings a real slice of authentic Indian flavour to the city. Also with a takeaway service, why not take a taste of India home?

334 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9065 4280www.jasminerestaurant.co.uk

LITTLe WING Little Wing offers a large variety of mouth watering pizzas, coupled with tempting desserts, which should definitely satisfy the palates of its hungry customers.

201 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9065 1555www.littlewingspizzeria.com

The mANDArIN cITyThe Mandarin City is a very popular Chinese restaurant which draws people from far and wide due to its excellent reputation. With an extensive menu, The Mandarin City offers just about every Chinese dish you can think of.

269-275 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9080 2888

NeILL’s hILLSituated at the heart of the local community in Ballyhackamore Neills Hill Brasserie is a place where you can enjoy good eating and drinking, locally and informally.

229 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9065 0079www.neillshill.com

The POeTThis hidden gem offers something for everyone! Warm and welcoming with a varied and delicious menu The Lonely Poet is worth a visit. You can enjoy fresh local produce served creatively accompanied with a good wine or inventive cocktail!

Kings Square, Kings RoadT: 028 9040 1248www.lonelypoetbelfast.com

The POINTEstablished for over 10 years, this eatery offers dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. Serving freshly cooked food with a local character all day while the bar offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a drink.

195-199 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9092 1920www.thepointbar.co.uk

The resTAUrANT, PArk AveNUe hOTeLThe Restaurant at Park Avenue offers you a charming, elegant and relaxed atmosphere where you can indulge in good food and fine wines. The menu offers a mix of classic and contemporary dishes using fresh, seasonal produce from local suppliers.

158 Holywood Road T: 028 9065 6520 www.parkavenuehotel.co.uk

sD BeLLsThe always busy and very popular SD Bells cafe has a highly respected reputation for serving the best teas and coffees from around the world. Pop in for a gourmet coffee and giant scone or sit down to a hearty, traditional fry.

516 Upper Newtownards Road T: 028 9047 1774www.sdbellsteacoffee.com

TrUffLesSituated in the heart of east Belfast, Truffles has become somewhat of an institution in the area. With a tantalising menu, this cafe has proved to be a hit with locals and visitors alike.

63 Belmont RoadT: 028 9047 1405

WOLfe’sTaking gourmet burgers to a whole new level, Wolfe’s only use freshly baked buns from an award winning bakery, whilst its char-grilled burgers are handmade on the premises fresh everyday with 100% prime cuts of Northern Irish Beef.

EastPoint Entertainment VillageT: 028 9048 0377www.wolfesburgers.co.uk

spoon streetThe unique self serve frozen yogurt (‘Fro-Yo’) store has been a roaring success since it opened in Ballyhackamore. With 16 rotating flavours and over 40 toppings there is ample selection and something different to try on every visit.

261 Upper Newtownards RoadT: 028 9543 5255

Thirty sixBased in the heart of east Belfast on the busy Belmont Road, Thirty Six offers delicious homemade food made from the freshest local ingredients. Open daily this cosy cafe is the perfect place to stop for a hearty breakfast, tasty lunch or an afternoon sweet treat made in the kitchen.

36 Belmont RoadT: 028 9065 7476

With the country enjoying some unexpected, but much welcome, late summer sunshine, I was delighted to be given the opportunity to enjoy a day out doors followed by a visit to Ye Olde Elk Inn, Dundonald, for an evening meal.

The bar and restaurant is situated on the Upper Newtownards Road and in the heart of Dundonald Village. The building’s exterior is reminiscent of an English Country Pub, with a modern edge. When my partner and I turned up on this beautiful May evening, we felt like we’d found the perfect spot to enjoy a wonderful meal and ice cold drinks.

We weren’t the only people to think so - the place was brimming with life; families, couples, groups of friends all enjoying the wonderful surroundings and fabulous weather. Despite the crowds we were quickly shown straight to our table by the friendly waiter and indeed throughout our stay the entire waiting staff were extremely pleasant and helpful. We also took the fact that the bar and kitchen were so busy as a good sign - it meant that the food was obviously in demand.

While we were sat at the table we took time to admire the modern decor, which helps give Ye Olde Elk Inn a warm and homely feeling.

Perusing the menu, it wasn’t hard to see why it is so popular. The starter menu was full of many tempting choices including, soup of the day, nachos and honey mustard pulled pork. After much debate I opted for the salted chilli chicken, and my partner decided on the cheesy garlic ciabatta.

The main course selection was even more impressive, with bang bang chicken, salmon, sirloin steak and BBQ pulled pork to name but a few. I decided to go with The Elk Burger- a chargrilled 6oz steak burger topped with

smoked bacon, cheddar cheese and tobacco onions in a glazed bun with chunky chips. My partner opted for the sirloin steak - a 10oz chargrilled Sirloin with chunky chips, roasted cherry tomatoes and peppered sauce.

Even though the restaurant was busy and full of life we did not have to wait long for our starters to arrive. My salted chilli chicken was just fantastic. A huge portion of tender spiced chicken was the perfect way to whet my appetite for the main course. My partner could not fault her starter of cheesy garlic ciabatta - fresh, crispy and tasty was the description from the other end of the table.

My main course, ‘The Elk Burger’ was beautiful and plentiful. The quality of chips and meat was exactly what you would expect from a bar/restaurant that prides itself as one of the finest pub food outlets in the country. The burger was filling and tasty, and perfectly complemented by the thick chips. My partner was equally happy with her main course, in fact I think it exceeded her expectations. She found the sirloin steak cooked to her exact specification, tasty and juicy - and perfectly topped off by the chunky chips.

Both the starters and main courses came in very healthy sized portions and we had to push ourselves to go for dessert, but since the food was so delicious we decided to go the extra mile. We went for the ‘Taster Dessert’, a fantastic offer which allows you to have a large sample of a main dessert and a tea or coffee of your choice for just £3.95. We shared the homemade cheesecake but had to fight over the last bite as it was incredibly delicious, the perfect way to end the perfect meal.

The Elk is an excellent place to go for a great value meal and we found it difficult to fault

anything from our visit. Despite the fact that the restaurant was busy the service was fast and the staff pleasant and most importantly of all, the food was delicious and the portions were incredibly generous.

Before heading on, we couldn’t resist one last drink in the downstairs bar, we settled into our seats to soak up the wonderful atmosphere. Relaxed, full and feeling great we both agreed our evening was perfect. The Elk is one restaurant that we will be returning to.

793 Upper Newtownards Road, BT16 0YE

T: 028 9032 3713

Fantastic Food EasT BELFasT LIFE’sphILIp mcLaUghLIN vIsITs YE oLdE ELk INN, dUNdoNaLd


East Belfast : REVIEW

2306110108 Cutters East Belfast Life Ad sized 215x300mm.indd 1 24/06/2015 14:50


East Belfast : SPOTLIGHT

Olivers Deli is a very welcome addition to the bustling Italian-inspired scene in Belfast. Situated at the heart of the Belmont Road, it has upped the breakfast-time, lunch-time, and dinner-time ante. The establishment looks the part too: with exposed brick meeting modern class, it knows how to meet the tastes of those who are already regulars to this new foodie space.

You get your first flavour just as you approach the curtilage: instantly hit by the aroma of freshly brewed Ecuadorian coffee; cured meats permeating spices of every hue; and freshly baked Ciabatta that hits the smell receptors like something mistaken for an analgesic.

The real consummation, however, is when you get in the door. Delicious salads dressed in a number of differently infused rapeseed oils and Burren Balsamic vinaigrettes sit alongside the most wonderful array of cheeses.

The ‘Young Buck’ blue variety is Northern Ireland’s first raw milk blue cheese and is made by local man Michael Thompson, directly from a single herd in Newtownards. Besides their large range of cooked meats the Deli offers cured meats also which can be seen hanging from the traditional hooks – like those near the Dolomite Mountains. The flavour is unrivalled and is testament to the labour-intensive processes involved. These meats have the Veroni seal of quality.

Olivers Deli also ranges their homemade Granola and all-UK ‘Cold Breakfast of the Year 2015’ awarded scones. It would be remiss to forgo one of their raspberry and white chocolate ones accompanied with locally made Abernathy butter, which they also stock.

If for whatever reason you happen to see their lights on in the silly hours of the morning, it is because their award-winning Master Baker Stephen Chisholm is supervising production of their speciality breads infused with Kalamata olives. The vista alone would transport you to the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

The Deli hasn’t said much in respect of their coffee; save to say that with its rich, dark chocolattey undertones, you don’t know what your missing.

oliver’s deliis on its way

A Master ClassJenny Bristow recently presented a Masterclass cookery demonstrations at St Molua’s Church, Stormont in association with Alwood Kitchens. The event helped raise funds for the Church Mission for 2015, with Jenny delivering her Master Class to over 300 guests. Jenny cooked a range of local seasonal produce provided by Corries Farm Butchers, Mash Direct, Burren Balsamics, with other sponsors including, Bottlegreen, Minprint, Ulster Weavers, S.D. Bells, Supervalu and AXA Insurance. A range of fantastic prizes were also raffled off, with star prize being a £400 home makeover from Homestyle Interiors.

01. Peter Lowe and Diane Stevenson.02. Alison Beck and Katie McCann.03. Susie Hamilton and Julie Cloughan.04. Stephen Thompson, Helen Poots, Elaine Hamilton and Tommy Carmichael.05. Pauline Clarke, Carrie Beck, Jill Clarke, Jacky Cully and Cherith Bell.06. Jenny Bristow with Daniel McClelland, Will Corrie, Will Corrie Jnr and John Henderson.07. Melanie Carmichael, Frances Hastings, Alfie Briggs, Jenny Bristow, Elaine Hamilton, Jenny Black, Jean Hill and Sharon Beck.08. Jenny Bristow.

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NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK...

CS Lewis, one of east Belfast’s most famous sons, has inspired generations of children and adults with his Chronicles of Narnia series. This inspiration has now taken the form of The Lamppost Café on the Upper Newtownards Road. The Lamppost of course was a major landmark in the country of Narnia. Resembling a London streetlamp, it stood in the middle of the forest and shone day and night. It was at the lamppost that Lucy Pevensie first met Mr. Tumnus, who told her that it marked the beginning of Narnia. This sense of wonder has been brought to life at The Lamppost Café, entrance is of course through a wardrobe and inside is decorated with all the wonder and charm of Lewis’ magical land.

19 Upper Newtownards RoadTel: 028 9067 1687

Just opened in June, General Merchants Cafe is located in a great spot on the Upper Newtownards Road (just over on the Stormont side of the Knock Dual Carriageway), with convenient street parking, bike racks and pram parking bay. When East Belfast Life visited the funky Australian themed cafe it was filled with a variety of customers; mummies, business men, ladies who lunch, young couples and pensioners. The ambiance was low key and relaxed, very Australian, and the food was fantastic. Belfast Telegraph food critic Joris Minne has also given General Merchants his coveted seal of approval, saying: “The place is not just very good, it’s a triumph and I hope to be back asap.” We couldn’t agree more.

481 Upper Newtownards RoadTel: 028 9065 2708

Narnia Awaits

Aussie RULES

We look at the latest eateries to hit East Belfast

The Ballyhackamore Business Association recently announced the launch of an Artisan Market at St. Colmcille’s Church.

The first market was held on 22nd August and will continue on the third Saturday of each month after that.

Ballyhackamore has become a centre of food and craft culture, not just in east Belfast but for the whole of the city, and the market proved to be a wonderful success.

Stalls at the Artisan market sold out fast, and visitors on the day were treated to an incredible selecion of the best of local crafts, gifts and specialist foods.

For more information please visit the Ballyhackamore Business Association Facebook Page.

Gone to Market

69 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 3BUTel: 028 9065 4994www.oliverscoffeebar.com



Katie Waddell, co-owner of Spoon Street, the self-serve frozen yogurt bar and Ulster Tatler Awards Start-Up Business of the Year in Ballyhackamores tells us...

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE?After completing a first class honours degree in Marketing at University of Ulster, my American partner and I decided to bring the first ever self-serve frozen yogurt bar to Northern Ireland. The idea stemmed from a year’s internship where I worked in New Jersey. This is where I discovered just how popular the concept was. Spoon Street has now been open for over 10 months with the flagship city centre store set to open in the next few weeks!

HOW DO YOU SPEND A TYPICAL DAY AT WORK?There’s no such thing as a typical day, particularly at the moment with the organisation and planning of the new store. I am always finding a happy medium between that and the day to day running of Spoon Street in Ballyhackamore.

HOW DO YOU RELAX IN YOUR SPARE TIME?Running a new business doesn’t allow for a lot of free time. When I get the chance my fiancé Harry and I love to hike around the Mournes. I am also guilty of the occasional Netflix binge!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WORKING IN EAST BELFAST?We were warmly welcomed into the area when we opened Spoon Street. East Belfast has a lot to shout about and we are very happy

to be a part of the now infamous ‘Ballysnackamore’, with its array of restaurants and cafes. After just a few weeks we were welcoming familiar Spoon Street visitors on a regular basis.

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO SOCIALISE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Socalise! What’s that? Spoon Street is open 7 days a week with late nights every night and we are very hands-on owners as we like to ensure our high-standards are maintained. When I do get a chance I love to grab a bite to eat in the many, many restaurants on my doorstep. We are spoiled for choice so we find ourselves working our way around them all.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HIDDEN GEM IN EAST BELFAST? WHY? Jellybean Café in Ballyhackamore is great. The menu is vast and delicious. As a Sushi lover it is my go-to place for my wasabi fix!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT/CAFE IN EAST BELFAST? WHY?I always loved Greens Pizza on the Lisburn Road and am delighted that the east Belfast branch is just a few yards down from Spoon Street. The pizzas are hard to beat and the dragons tongue bread is to die for!


Hard to beat: Katie loves the pizza at Greens.

Katie and her partner Harry were warmly welcomed into the Ballyhackamore family.

9am - 4pm

Breakfast brunch and lunch and of course our homemade speciality scones.


www.cafesmart.co.uk

sundaypiano brunch



The EastSide Arts Festival, delivered by East Belfast Partnership with support from Department of Culture Arts and Leisure and Arts Council for Northern Ireland ran from 19th – 31st August across numerous east Belfast locations.

Festival FeverThe festival showcased a varied arts programme with something for everyone from across the east of the city and beyond. Earlier this year, ex-Orangefield boys’ pupil and legendary east Belfast singer Van Morrison announced a gig to be played on Cyprus Avenue, a street immortalised in song by Van himself.

With an overwhelming response from local fans and fans across the world Van then announced a second performance, all of which went off smoothly - excellent shows to sell out crowds. Other local musicians who featured at the festival included Duke Special, David C Clements, Brian Houston and The 4 Of Us.

Heather Chesney, Stephanie Meenagh,Michelle Bryans and Jacqueline O’Hagan.

Cllr Deirdre Hargey, Cllr Niall O’Donnghaile and Roisin McDonough.

Cllr Deirdre Hargey, David Alderdice, Sam McCready, Anthony Toner and Roisin McDonough.



A whole range of free events were staged in Orangefield Park in association with Connswater Community Greenway and included wildlife, music, street theatre, tree carving, an outdoor art gallery and craft workshops. Anthony Toner, EastSide Arts Manager, said: “It has been a whirlwind few months, pulling together a programme that we believe deepens and extends the vision laid out in our Arts Strategy for East Belfast. But we also wanted to have fun, with a festival that would make the east of this city feel good about itself – feel good about being a constant wellspring of imagination, inspiration and talent; feel good about being a community that is renewing.”

Roísín McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: “The quality of this year’s festival programme is confirmation of the impact that EastSide Arts is having on the development of the arts in the east of the city.

It has quickly established itself as a creative highpoint and, in tandem with EastSide’s other stand-out events, including the CS Lewis and the Woodstock R&B festivals, is making a marked contribution to the ongoing transformation of arts provision in, and the creative reputation of, east Belfast.”

The festival was staged in a number of east Belfast locations including The Strand Arts Centre, Park Avenue Hotel, Orangefield Park and Shorts Recreation Club. The official charity for the festival was Action Cancer.

Myles Milliken and Kirstin Aston who starred in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ at the Strand Arts Centre.

Dugald McCullough with daughter Alice McCullough who performed her ‘Earth to Alice’ poetry show at the Strand Arts Centre.

David Thompson and Rebecca Scott.

This issue of East Belfast Life featuresfull coverage of the fantastic festival.

Page 08 Van Morrison on Cyprus AvenuePage 10/11 The EastSide Arts Family Fun DayPage 30 Comedy Evening withTim McGarryPage 42 Sam Hanna Bell Page 76 An Evening with Glenn Patterson

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Subway Sponsor Local Football TeamSubway, Holywood Road & Ballyhackamore has become the official away kit sponsor for the Under 17’s of local side Harland Youth Football Club. William Sale, Chairman of Harland Youth, said: “We are really excited to welcome Subway on board as our under 17’s away kit sponsor and we look forward to the next season with great confidence and a shared ambition of success. It is great that such a well known brand and major local employer wants to get involved and sponsor youngsters in the area.” Subway currently employs over 650 staff in their 92 locally owned and operated franchises, providing a wide range of convenient, tasty and healthier food choices. Harland Youth FC cater for all-abilities (Boys & Girls), with teams from Under - 8 upwards.

Subway store manager Ania Pietraszkiewicz and players from Harland Youth FC, celebrate the official sponsorship announcement.

Celebrity Chef OpensNew RestaurantInternationally renowned chef Marco Pierre White is opening a restaurant in east Belfast. The celebrity chef will launch his first ever restaurant in Northern Ireland at the Park Avenue Hotel, Holywood Road. The Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill will open at the four star hotel later this month (October 2015). Mandy Patrick, Managing Director of the Park Avenue Hotel, welcomed the news, saying: “Attracting internationally acknowledged brands like Marco Pierre White means Belfast and the Park Avenue Hotel are directly linked into a global marketing network which drives the tourism and hospitality sector. It’s a huge expression of confidence in Belfast as a place to do business.”

Marco Pierre White will open his first restaurant in Northern Ireland at the Park Avenue Hotel.

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What a Night for the WeldersThe Harland & Wolff Welders club recently held their Annual Awards at their Dee Street home. All sports sections within the club, including; football, mens darts, ladies darts, angling and a golfing society, were represented on the evening. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the club and it was felt that former players and managers from the football side who had graced the Welders colours should be invited along to join in. A little piece of history was made when all four footballing trophies were won for the first time by the same person, Michael McLellan. He lifted the Player of the year, Young Player of the Year, Player’s Player of the year and Leading goal scorer. All in all it was a memorable evening for the club, who are looking forward to the next fifty years.

01. Michael McLellan, Fred Magee and Jim Wilson. 02. Former managers of H&W Welders with Club Treasurer JT Davidson.03. R Fitzsimons, Scott Brannigan and Michael McLellan.

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L2L500 team members Neil Parker and Mark McKeown

from First Trust Bank, Stephen Wray from ECIT/NISP and

Darren Toombs from Carson McDowell Solicitors near the

start point of their epic cycling challenge in east Belfast.

THE FLYING ULSTERMENA group of cyclists from an east belfast club are getting ready for gruelling challenge - all in aid of some great local charities

A group of six friends with strong links in the Northern Ireland business community are planning to channel their inner Bradley Wiggins to complete a gruelling 3-day cycling challenge around Ulster next month. The riders are part of the 0745 Rouleurs cycling club based in east Belfast, who meet regularly at General Merchants on the Upper Newtownards Road.

The group have created the Lough-to-Lough 500, an energy sapping bike ride of more than 500 km which they will take over the first weekend in October to raise money for charities dear to their hearts, including The Brain Tumour Charity, SUNI, Alzheimer’s Society and MS Society.

Part of the inspiration behind the L2L500 is fellow club member and L2L participant Gideon Burrows.

In his late 30’s and with a young family Gideon has a rare inoperable brain tumour

which will eventually turn malignant. Gideon commented: “Cycling continues to be a central part of my life and an outlet for my frustrations.

“Because of what we have come through as a family I am passionate about raising awareness for organisations like The Brain Tumour Charity and so I’m really excited about this event. Many people aren’t aware that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40.” The group will depart from the shores of Belfast Lough, through the hills of Armagh and Monaghan, past Lough Erne to the wild Atlantic coast in Donegal. They’ll then travel back via Derry and onwards along the world famous Causeway Coast back to Belfast.

To find out more go to www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/L2L500 Follow them on Twitter @L2L500 or check out the website www.L2L500.com

LifeEASTBelfastMOTORING


East Belfast : MOTORING

kings of the hillThe Craigantlet Hillclimb, a popular speed event organised by the Ulster Automobile Club, was staged recently. Despite the unfortunate weather conditions big crowds gathered to see the host of fantastic vintage and modern cars race around the roads of east Belfast.

The only Northern Ireland date in the UK wide British Hillclimb Championships, the event twists up an incline near Holywood, with racers hitting speeds of 150mph.

There was no better place for motoring enthusiasts to be, with the opportunity to see the fastest cars competing anywhere, on public roads, in Ireland this year.

Photos courtesy of Bill Swann – i2i photography and Raymond Brown Photography.

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East Belfast : MOTORING

easy ON The eyeThe Swift has been around for 15 years or more but it still feels fresh. Easy on the eye, with a pert upright look, it has a little bit more character than most superminis. You need to drive the Swift to appreciate its road-going flair. Mainstream models come with an eager 1.2-litre petrol engine and various trims offering a surprising array of equipment. Even the entry level SZ2 model runs to seven airbags and stability control, making it one of the safest small cars out there.

The flagship Sport model really lives up to the Swift name with a rev-loving 1.6-litre petrol engine that offers driving entertainment akin to a hot hatch. There is a four-wheel drive model with a new Dualjet 1.2 petrol engine that offers casual off-roading.

All models share the Swift’s character on the road with sharp steering, good handling and decent ride comfort for a small car. The manual gearbox is slick in operation - five-speed on most models and six on the Sport. Braking is

effective with higher level models featuring disc brakes on the rear as well has the front wheels. Performance from the starter 1.2-litre petrol engine is enough for everyday driving and you have to admire its willingness. It returns 56mpg on the Com-bined Cycle with emissions of 116g/km.

The new optional Dualjet 1.2 petrol engine with similar performance does better still with 65mpg and just 99g/km - it has replaced the diesel Swift in the line-up. At the moment it is available only with the higher SZ3 or SZ4 trim and the 4x4.

The flagship Sport model gives a rewarding drive with its 132bhp, 1.6-litre engine that can zip up to 62mph in 8.7 seconds and on to a 121mph top speed. It returns 44mpg combined and has emissions of 147g/km.

There are four trim levels - SZ2, SZ3, SZ-L and SZ4 which collect more gear as you move up the scale. The starter model has electric front windows, split-folding rear seats, USB connection and heated door mirrors. SZ3 adds 16-inch alloys, air con and Bluetooth while SZ-L has cruise control and rear privacy glass. The top SZ4 has auto air con, front fogs, auto headlamps and keyless entry.

The Suzuki Swift Sport is the hot hatch of the range, and is identified by its racy bodykit, 17-inch alloys, twin exit exhaust and bright HID headlamps. The 4x4 model comes in SZ3 or SZ4 trim only, with the latter getting front and rear

protector plates and plastic wheel arches, for extra style.

Prices range from £8,999 for a starter three-door 1.2 SZ2 and from £9,499 for a five-door. The 4x4 comes as a 1.2 SZ3 from £12,099 while the Sport offers an entertaining drive from a reasonable £13,999. Automatic is available on the 1.2 SZ4 five door for £13,099.

There has always been a lot to like about the Suzuki Swift - well built, fun to drive, affordable and available with three or five doors it still stands up well to the opposition.

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A new installation composed of four artworks has been launched in East Belfast to celebrate the area as the birthplace of CS Lewis. Created by Co.Down artist Alan Burke, ‘Of the River’ is an art installation composed which portrays the rich cultural and industrial heritage of east Belfast.

Located in the shadow of the shipyard cranes, on building facades at Townsley and Manderson Street at Holywood Arches, the artwork shows how the Connswater River shaped the history and culture of the people on its banks. East Belfast Partnership successfully secured National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland to create a piece of art to improve the appearance of the area ahead of the construction of the C.S. Lewis Civic Square.

The artist, Alan Burke, wanted to represent a timeline of the local area, from past to present and he used the Connswater River as the focal point. The river was once an artery that powered the mills and rope works and it is now to be celebrated as a place of leisure and recreation through the Connswater Community Greenway.

The industrial past is represented in the artwork through the inclusion of flax flowers, ropes, chains, a shipyard worker and a Harland & Wolff crane. Amidst this industrial past the artwork also celebrates east Belfast as the birthplace of C.S. Lewis with the inclusion of the artist’s representation of Aslan. Young people from Walkway Community Association and East Belfast Area Youth Project participated in workshops to help create the art installation. They chose images, symbols or words that represented east Belfast to them; they then used their new copper work skills to imprint their representations onto unique copper pieces. Some of these copper plate pieces form part of the final artwork

Residents of Oaklee Housing Association’s Tamar Court also took part in workshops. They created an east Belfast themed stained glass window to display in their communal area. Their memories of east Belfast inspired the design for the window which includes H&W crane, flax flowers, chains and ropes. Speaking at the event Deirdre Robb, Visual Arts Officer at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: “We are delighted that we were able to support the making of this artwork with National Lottery funds through our Public Art Programme.

“It’s been inspired by the input of local people and it celebrates the historic achievements of the community, so I’m sure this striking artwork will be a very welcome addition to the area and will be enjoyed for many years to come.”

“It is so exciting to see the artwork installed on these buildings with the support of the local community and businesses.”

“ ‘Of the River’ will kick-start the development of the Holywood Arches area alongside the new EastSide Visitor Centre and C.S. Lewis Civic Square, providing benefits for local businesses, visitors and the entire community,” said Heather Chesney, East Belfast Partnership.

Speaking on the importance of art in the area, the artist Alan Burke commented: “Sculpture and art in general enhances one’s environment; not only in the obvious as something to look at, but also as a piece of a much larger jigsaw of community and shared spaces, that in time creates a history and a resonance to a building, town or street. ‘Of the River’ portrays the rich cultural and industrial heritage using the Connswater River as the storyteller. Working on this project and watching it develop has been extremely rewarding.”

SHaPInG Our HISTOry



Degrees of SeparationThe Engine Room Gallery pop-up at Portview Trade Centre recently the ‘Degrees of Separation exhibition. The content of the exhibition was a play on the theory that everyone and everything can be connected in six or fewer steps. In curating the exhibition, artist Deirdre Robb asked the artists to respond to this concept through their own practice, with the resulting show encompassing video, painting, photography, installation and projections.

01. The Creative Exchange artists; Lesley Cherry, George Robb, Deirdre Robb, Stephen Millar, Ruth Gonsalves-Moore and Paul Moore.02. Maurice Kincaid with Siobhan McGuckian and Sammy Douglas MLA. 03. Phil Griffiths and Lesley Cherry.04. Paul Kane and Bernard Jackson.05. Johanna Leec and Kathi Schmid.06. Tara and Marina McCann.07. The Engine Room Gallery exhibition.

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Here’s Me HereGlenn Patterson read from his new book ‘Here’s Me Here’, a collection of his writing for print and broadcast, at Strand Arts Centre as part of this year’s EastSide Arts Festival. The event was hosted by BBCs Northern Ireland’s Marie-Louise Muir and in a tasty twist, all guests received a bowl of Dal, prepared by Mr. Patterson. As Glenn said himself: ‘I have a sentimental attachment to the stuff, a long story that I have boiled down to a more digestible three minutes.” The event was hosted In association with No Alibis Bookstore.

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01. Roger Courtney with Glenn Patterson.02. Sam Fitzsimmons and Scott Morrison.03. Andrew Neill and David Coulter. 04. Glenn Patterson with Catherine Hunter and Anne McKee.


ofthe beStPaRKSIn each issue we take a look at five of our favourite things in east Belfast - this time its the great outdoors.

5Orangefield Park

Where is it?Orangefield Lane, Bloomfield Road, BT5

Why we love it? With £4 million worth of construction work completed in the last year, Orangefield Park has been transformed

into one of the finest in Belfast. The alignment of Knock River from the edge to the heart of the park to protect against flooding has

made the river a real feature of the park. New lighting, paths, street furniture and extra bridges has massively increased footfall with in the park, and the bike trails along the river and greenway making it a proper

haven for cyclists.

When can I visit?Orangefield Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Where can I find out more? www.belfastcity.gov.uk/leisure/parks

Victoria ParkWhere is it?

Park Avenue, BT4 1JT

Why we love it?One of Belfast’s oldest parks, Victoria has had

a huge makeover in the last few years turning it into a fantastic outdoor space. Full of wildlife (both aqauatic and aerial), great facilities for children and

some of the best cycling routes in Belfast - there is something for everyone.

When can I visit?Victoria Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Where can I find out more?www.belfastcity.gov.uk/leisure/parks

Cregagh GlenWhere is it?Entrance to the glen is on Upper Knockbreda Road A55, north of the Cregagh Road junction, with parking in adjacent streets.

Why we love it?The Cregagh Glen route explores a shady glen up into the Castlereagh hills on surfaced and unsurfaced paths. There are some steep climbs, but you will be rewarded at the summit with magnificent views over Belfast.

When can I visit?Cregagh Glen is open from dawn to dusk for the rest of the year. Closed on Sunday

Where can I find out more?www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Knocknagoney ParkWhere is it?Holywood Road, BT4 2PU

Why we love it? Knocknagoney Linear Park includes soccer pitches and a children’s playground, which has recently been updated as part of

the council’s £649,000 investment to upgrade and redesign ten playgrounds. The park was also awarded the Green Flag Award, which recognises the best open spaces in the UK.

When can I visit? Knocknagoney Park is opens from 7.30am, closing times vary depending on time of year.

Where can I find out more?www.belfastcity.gov.uk/leisure/parks

Stormont EstateWhere is it?Upper Newtownards Road, BT4

Why we love it? From the majestic lawns and flowerbeds that envelope the main avenues to the winding forest paths mapped out for

walkers and joggers there is an atmosphere of tranquillity and a freshness in the air. Families come with children to picnic at the play park and others avail of the nearby restaurant for a spot of lunch after a long walk.

When can I visit?Opening hours are seasonal.

Where can I find out more?For information on opening hours and more visitwww.niassembly.gov.uk/visit-and-learning/stormont-estate/





An Evening of FashionPeel Fashion Store on Bloomfield Avenue recently hosted an evening of fine fashion catwalk displays. Peel, known as one of the leading ladies designer clothes shops in Belfast, welcomed guests with drinks and nibbles before treating them to a fantastic fashion show, which showed off some of the latest trends for this season.

01. Nuala Meenehan, Annabelle Millar, Toria Fraser and Sophie Dalm.02. Christine Mooney, Katrina Dowling, Sarah O’Hagan and Shauna McCullough.03. Marysia Borland and Suzanne McDonough.04. Laura Russell, Sian Brown, Leza Royal, Kali Rodgers, Jenny Meadows and Jo Tunnah.05. Suzanne Millar and Margaret Fraser.06. Mary McTaggart and Stephanie Wethers.07. Olivia Danielli, Jane Jennings and Mandy Dalm.

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08. Amie McAllister and Neil Curran.09. Diana Press and Joyce Fraser.10. Nuala Meenehan with Michelle McDonald.11. Peel Fashion Show. 12. Gillian Hool, Francesca Hool and Leza Royal.13. The show is about to start. 14. Jacqueline Baker, Sarah Pinkerton and Grainne McKendry.15. Peel Fashion Show..

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What?The third C.S. Lewis Festival marks the 52nd anniversary of the death of the renowned author, theologian, academic and creator of the incredible Chronicles of Narnia series. Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast in 1898.

The C.S. Lewis Festival will recognise and celebrate both his life and his legacy to the world. Across 4 days of Lewis-related events will be reflections and assessments of the cultural significance of Lewis’ rich legacy, the impact he had on Belfast, as well as the strong influence his native city had on his vast body of work. There will be something for everyone with many magical and free events offered; it’s definitely worth checking out.

When? 19th - 22nd November 2015

Where? Across east Belfast.

For further information www.eastsidearts.net


What? Ulster Rugby participates in the European Cup and Guinness PRO12, and provides the biggest regular supporter numbers for a true ‘sport for all’ in Northern Ireland. Ulster Rugby, with its playing and administrative staff based at Ravenhill in Belfast, is the only sport running a full-time professional team based in Northern Ireland.

When? Upcoming Home Fixtures: 02/10/15 v Treviso23/10/15 v Cardiff Blues20/11/15 v Saracens04/12/15 v Edinburgh11/12/15 v Stade Toulousain02/01/16 v Munster08/01/16 v Newport Gwent Dragons

Where? Kingspan Stadium

For further informationTickets available for season matches fromwww.ulsterrugby.com or Ticket Office 028 9049 3222.

What? Premiere of ‘Spectre’ at Strand Arts Centre. Thanks to the huge global success of ‘Skyfall’, there’s never been a more eagerly anticipated Bond film in the history of the franchise. This special Spectre premiere is a fundraiser in aid of the not-for-profit Strand Arts Centre, and your chance to see it in style! Expect a Bond-themed evening with plenty of glamour and gadgets galore.

When? 7pm, 29th October 2015

Where? Strand Arts Centre,Holywood Road.

For tickets and further informationwww.strandartscentre.com/strand-spectre-premiere

We take a look at some of the major events and attractions coming soon to East Belfast.

WHAT’S HAPPENING -IN THE EAST

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East Belfast Life Autumn 2015