Dearly beloved husband of Brenda and much loved father of Colette Will be lovingly remembered by his entire family circle neighbours and friends.Remains will arrive at St Patrick's church Ballynahinch on Tuesday evening at 7:30pm Private burial afterwards in adjoining cemetery.House strictly privateFamily flowers only Donations in lieu if desired to Thompson House Relatives Support group c/o G.R Further enquiries phone 07773338824.Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul Share this sad news with friends and loved ones [email protected] Link Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced the next steps for the progression of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass Scheme The proposed scheme will provide a single carriageway bypass approximately 3.1 kilometres in length around the eastern periphery of Ballynahinch.  Minister Kimmins has confirmed that the scheme will be moving forward to business case and procurement stage.  “I am delighted to announce this positive step forward for the long-awaited A24 Ballynahinch Bypass scheme.  I know that for the local community businesses and commuters through the area this will be a welcome development.   “This important project will help to significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the centre of Ballynahinch road safety and air quality on the busy A24 Belfast to Newcastle Road.  As part of my commitment to increase opportunities for active and sustainable travel I am also pleased that the scheme will include the provision of a new footway/cycleway and a park and share facility.   “This will all serve to enhance the town centre environment and provide a more positive experience for locals and visitors alike.” “Major projects take years to develop and complete the necessary statutory orders so we do need to prioritise the development and delivery of our schemes accordingly On that basis and having already committed to take the A1 Junctions Phase 2 project to construction I can confirm that in order to minimise the budget impact on future years the Ballynahinch Bypass will be managed sequentially to the A1 Junctions project these strategic road improvement schemes will deliver for communities and road users for generations to come.” The Department will now commence the work to review and update the necessary documents to bring this scheme to procurement including the finalising of the Business Case.  This process is likely to take in the region of two years.  With a procurement start planned in 2027/28 works could commence in 2028/29 and take 2 years to complete.  Delivery of the scheme will be dependent on the successful completion of the statutory processes and the future availability of finance A Co Down man who runs a farm specialising in donkey-assisted therapy has told of the “powerful impact” the animals can have on mental and emotional wellbeing Equine facilitator Robert Wallace runs Kinedale Donkeys in Ballynahinch a farm which offers unique hands-on animal interactions aimed at promoting wellness Robert explains that he and his family have always been donkey lovers dating back to when his grandfather used a donkey and cart to get about instead of a wheelchair in his later years “We’ve always been big animal lovers in general,” he says while giving the farm’s springer spaniel and resident greeter her family had a farm with donkeys — and when my grandad lost his legs he used to drive Mickey Finn the donkey around so he could still do farm work “I got my first donkey when I was year old and then when I was six I got Denis who kind of started the complete obsession with them “But it wasn’t really until lockdown that I started to fully appreciate how lucky I am to live here with the donkeys I’ve had since I was a child — especially as we were looking at potentially selling some of them." The fear of losing some of his donkeys, combined with his desire to prove that “they still have a purpose today’s society”, inspired 35-year-old Robert to open the farm to the public in 2020. “When it comes to donkeys people have this preconceived notion that they all bite, kick and that they’re stubborn,” he says. “But they have been so integral to human history for the last 7,000 years since they were domesticated. “They’ve moved from northern Africa to ancient Greece to the ancient Romans, then the Roman Empire brought them worldwide, they hit Britain around 43AD, but they didn’t come to this island until the 1500s. “But in that very short space of time they made such an impact in terms of helping people and now, 500 years later, everyone knows what a donkey is, but they don’t think they have anything to offer. “And I just think it’s really sad that we keep seeing more of them with no purpose and no drive and they live far too long to be ignored.” Kinedale, which is now home to 26 donkeys, specialises in anxiety treatment, working alongside mental health practitioners to make difficult topics surrounding mental health, self-care and emotions easier to handle, particularly among children and teenagers. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lewis Mason (@lewiismason) “During Covid, which was a really stressful and anxious time, the donkeys were always my solace,” Robert recalls. “I thought it was something worth sharing with other people. “When we originally opened, we offered scheduled cuddle sessions and donkey treks for people just to come and spend time with them. “The therapeutic side of it didn’t really come into play until I was contacted by a child psychologist. “They were working very hard during Covid to keep up with the number of young kids struggling with the idea of going back into school. “She asked if my donkeys would be able to come out to a school and help children with things like emotional regulation and self-care techniques. “We did our first project with a school in Drumaness and the feedback was phenomenal - the kids got so much out of it and I think the donkeys did too.” Since then, Robert has secured contracts with both the NHS and Education Authority to use his donkeys for therapeutic work, taking them into schools, care homes and hospitals. He believes a big part of their universal appeal is down to the fact “there’s absolutely no judgment”. “Working with animals is scientifically proven to release serotonin, oxytocin and dopamine – all those feel-good hormones - but also there’s no judgment with animals, especially the donkeys," he says. “They have nothing but kindness for people and I think because of that it’s sometimes easier to speak to them than trying to speak to another person. We might give you an opinion or say something back whereas the donkeys just listen. In addition to their wellbeing work the donkeys are also involved in Kinedale’s own speed dating event, Donkey Date Night. “I realised that adults, no matter how old they get, still want to cuddle animals and play on a farm – I think that’s a little idea and dream we all have sometimes," explains Robert. “I wanted to do something that catered to that, so I decided to set up a wholesome evening called Donkey Date Nights.” As the name suggests, visitors (either in groups or couples) get to ‘speed date’ the donkeys, spending two minutes with each fuzzy suitor, feeding them carrots while listening to Robert explain each of their back stories. “It’s really just to give people a bit of an insight into their various personalities and it really worked, people loved it,” he says. “I just think it’s a lovely way of bringing people together.” Practising what he preaches the donkeys even played a key role during Robert’s wedding in 2023. Working with animals is scientifically proven to release feel-good hormones - but also there’s no judgment with animals, especially the donkeys. They have nothing but kindness for people. We might give you an opinion or say something back whereas the donkeys just listen... Rescue donkey ‘Big Meg’ pulled the carriage while miniature donkey Turlough distributed the floral petals to well-wishers and Denis, who has been at Robert’s side since he was six, delivered the rings. “My wife jokes that it was only for content,” he laughs. “It was very relaxed, we just wanted people to come and have funm and what was really nice was that if it was getting overwhelming at any point we could just step away and chat to the donkeys for a bit and come back in feeling refreshed. “But even before we started properly planning the wedding we knew the donkeys would be there because they’re part of the family.” However, despite the evident success of Kinedale, Robert admits running the business does have difficulties. “Working with animals always comes with challenges, but the big thing for me is the stress of disease, sickness, illness and getting themselves hurt. “Animals, particularly large livestock, are always going round getting themselves hurt whether they get their foot caught in a hole or getting their head stuck through a gate, or they could just trip or sleep wrong - just like ourselves - but with their added weight they’re so much more at risk. “It’s just about trying to think from their point of view and being mindful.” He also expresses concern over the fact animal therapy currently isn’t licensed and therefore not widely regulated. “I’m seeing a lot of people buying donkeys and offering animal therapy after completing a certificate that takes a week to do online,” Robert explains. “That puts people at risk because how well do they know those donkeys? I’ve known mine their entire life, I can read them and understand them, I’ve done a degree in equine management. “So, I feel like I am qualified to ‘talk donkey’ and understand that side of it but I don’t do therapy, I’m an equine facilitator - I provide the animal and work with a therapist, psychiatrist or counsellor. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kinedale Donkeys (@kinedaledonkeys) “I think that’s the perfect bridge and I think people who buy two donkeys and do a crash course in animal therapy are dangerous. “I just want to see it done properly because my big fear is there’ll be a big fall out and there will just be a big ban on animal therapy and that’s the donkeys out of a job.” But not letting these fears discourage him, Robert says he would love to do more therapeutic work and build on the business’s solid foundations. “I can’t believe on the August 3 it’ll be five years since we opened. “I get a bit emotional when I think about where we were at five years ago at this time of year with the fear of Covid and the sudden fear of losing the donkeys. “Now we have more donkeys than ever, more goats and I’m getting to do wonderful things, the opportunities have been crazy. “We’re heading to Scotland in July for a wedding, we’re going to Tipperary in September with them, we’re doing film work, we’re getting interviews – it’s mad. “It’s just amazing to see that the humble donkey, who gets left behind is now at the head of everything and is involved in every industry I can get them in to.” Facebook pageTwitter feedRSS feed@2025 The Irish News Ltd View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lewis Mason (@lewiismason) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kinedale Donkeys (@kinedaledonkeys) Take a break from the craziness of city life by heading to the country estate of Ballynahinch Castle on the west coast of Ireland enjoy a pint of Guinness in the pub and try the much-vaunted restaurant by an award-winning Irish chef If you're looking a place to stay that has that definitive lord of the manor vibe Set in 450 glorious acres of Irish countryside in its own estate it manages to be both super luxurious and very down to earth We were here because their chef Danni Barry is doing amazing things at the hotel's Owenmore restaurant But the fact that it felt like a million miles from central London despite taking barely six hours door to door to get there The house dates back to the late 18th century but the castle on which it stands is a lot older This was the home of the famous pirate queen Grace O'Malley in 1546 and later Richard 'Humanity Dick' Martin it became the home of world-class cricketer His Highness the Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanger Now it's a very fine place to stay and part of the Relais & Chateaux group of hotels It's very well known for its fishing (there's a river packed with salmon and sea trout running through the grounds) and it's a particularly good place for walks and hiking trails Set on the edge of the Connemara National Park Ballynahinch is in a heartbreakingly beautiful part of the world The castle is set right beside the glorious expanse of the Connemara National Park featuring the kind of mountain and lake combo that makes you want to stop the car every 10 feet just to gawp at your surroundings Getting here is pretty easy - Ryanair and Aer Lingus both fly to nearby Shannon from various London airports You can get a bus from the airport into Galway another bus out to Clifden and then taxis will take you out to the hotel Pints of Guinness with some cheesy chips are the perfect treat following a hike through one of the hotel's many trails There are two options for eating here at Ballynahinch If you're after a more laid-back affair then head to The Fisherman's Pub and Ranji Room This is the place to go for a pint of Guinness by the fire along with some Connemara oysters or a burger made with award-winning beef from Roscommon But you really shouldn't leave before having at least one meal in the Owenmore Restaurant The main dining room at the hotel has amazing views out over the river and even in the middle of the week on a dark autumn night Chef Danni Barry presides over the menu here Having trained up at L'enclume she became the only female chef in Ireland to hold a Michelin star for her restaurant Eipic The Owenmore restaurant at Ballynahinch - definitely a room with a view she takes her responsibility as an ambassador for Relais & Châteaux's annual Food For Change campaign very seriously with a seasonally changing menu that makes the most of the superb produce she has on her doorstep here There's a huge walled garden not far from the house that you can wander through and see what might end up on your table that night.  "The estate's kitchen gardens dictate the menu for the vast majority of the year," she says seasonality has never been more important to me I love working with our gardeners to inspire the menu." Dinner in the Owenmore restaurant is definitely more of a linen tablecloth smoked bacon jam and a brown butter hollandaise - "The mushrooms in this tart are foraged from several areas around the estate," Danni told us "We are lucky to have a lot of forestry close to the river which allows for a carpet of chanterelles to appear at certain times of the year.  It is important to be ethical when foraging and we are careful only to take one third of what we actually find." Rabbit 'vol au vent' with carrots grown in the hotel's walled garden Dry aged beef fillet and short rib with smoked bone marrow Lemon verbena cheesecake with lemon curd and a lemon verbena sorbet The highlight of breakfast here is the huge marmalade-baked ham on their breakfast buffet table that you can carve yourself (a new ham cooked for breakfast every day) It's very easy to consider just loading up a plate of this but there's also a whole buffet to go with this there's a very good and extensive cooked-to-order section whether you fancy oatmeal porridge with an apple raising and Connemara whiskey compote or smoked trout royale A superior room at Ballynahinch - set up to gaze over the river running past The castle has 48 rooms and they all have amazing views over the scenic countryside We stayed in a luxury room which had a particularly great view of the river racing through the grounds along with a separate dressing room and mammoth bathroom stocked with Voya toiletries made with Irish seaweed It's also worth mentioning that we were staying at the hotel along with someone with mobility issues and staff couldn't have been more helpful with the room or access One of the hotel's brand-new woodland saunas We arrived just one week after the fly fishing season was over so we missed the chance for a lesson from one of the hotel's ghillies But the one thing you absolutely must do is check out the brand-new woodland saunas They'd only been open a few weeks when we visited having been shipped all the way over from Estonia They are quite a draw with each hobbit-like structure having its own wood-fired sauna and a glass one-way mirrored window so you can gaze out over the lake while being gently broiled To cool off there's a Heath Robinson-like cold pull bucket system or you could A tip though - bring along swimming shoes for that dip in the lake Your view from inside the sauna (rainbow not always provided) We'd heard a lot about Ballynahinch from other restaurant folk we know in London and the hotel more than lived up to its reputation It's a delicate balance providing all the luxury a demanding guest could want or need without losing sight of the heart of a place How much? €305 per night for two people on a B&B basis Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @ballynahinchcastle Book this hotel Hot Dinners stayed as guests of Ballynahinch Subscribe to be the first to get the news from Hot Dinners Please enable the javascript to submit this form By signing up you agree to our privacy policy View on Google maps About us  |  Contact Us  |  RSS Feed  |  Site directory  |  Privacy policy  |  Log in/out Join 50,000 other Londoners getting exclusive news and restaurant offers from Hot Dinners. Please enable the javascript to submit this form By signing up you agree to our privacy policy See our previous newsletters here Mourne and Down District Council has commenced a significant refurbishment project at Ballynahinch Community Centre which represents an investment of £905,000 will include both internal and external modifications as well as essential structural enhancements to ensure that Ballynahinch Community Centre remains accessible and fully operational for residents of Ballynahinch and the surrounding areas for years to come staff and centre users helped shape a new internal layout designed to increase the centre’s usage and meet the evolving needs of the local community Key upgrades and enhancements include a new 100 square metre multi-purpose room which will provide additional space for activities such as aerobics This new space is expected to increase the centre’s capacity to accommodate additional bookings A meeting room will be added to accommodate smaller meetings one-to-one sessions or group gatherings for up to 20 people A new Changing Places facility will be installed and this larger fully accessible toilet will be equipped with specialist features such as hoists adult-sized changing benches and ample space for carers making it suitable for use by people with severe disabilities the renovation will include an increase in parking capacity from the current 13 spaces (including 2 disabled spaces) to a total of 33 spaces providing more convenient access for users The project is expected to be completed by March 2025 offering an improved experience for all users Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson “This substantial investment in Ballynahinch Community Centre highlights the Council’s commitment not only to the present but also to ensuring a well-maintained accessible community facility for the future The centre will remain a key resource for the people of Ballynahinch and surrounding areas for many years to come.” For current enquiries or to book rooms at the centre, please email ccbookings@nmandd.org Wednesday 12 March 2025 at 9:30pmYou can read more about the project here Catch up with the latest UTV Live on ITVX Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know By 2024-11-07T09:48:00+00:00 has been given Yodel’s Store of the Quarter award for ‘outstanding’ customer support and service to its local community Yodel’s network comprises over 7,000 newsagents serving UK customers with its Store-to-Store and Store-to-Door parcel delivery options Donard View Service Station has been an essential hub in Ballynahinch since it opened in 1963 Today it handles over 1,500 parcels a quarter for Yodel and achieved an impressive customer rating of 5.00 in Yodel’s in-house Have Your Say customer feedback survey from June to September this year With Yodel recently becoming Vinted’s sole carrier in Northern Ireland Donard View Service Station has seen its parcel volumes double in the past 12 months all while maintaining an average five-star rating says: “Joining the Deliver to Yodel Store network has been great for our business allowing us to provide a convenient and incredibly popular service to our local community The store has been within my family for over 50 years and we are proud to be recognised with a Store of the Quarter award and are very thankful to all our loyal customers who have positively reviewed their experience with us and made this possible.” says: “Donard View Service Station sets a great example for us all proving their importance to the local community and their commitment to ensuring thousands of people can receive their parcels we’re proud to celebrate the success of our partners who have played their part in providing secure and convenient parcel collection services for our millions of customers across the UK We’re thrilled to be awarding Donard View Service Station with the Store of the Quarter award for their outstanding work and are excited to follow their continued success.” who drops and collects parcels from the store and the wider area was also commended by Yodel as part of the accompanying Driver of the Quarter award The award is given to drivers in conjunction with recognised stores for providing high-quality service and showcasing their commitment to deliveries and customers in the area Register now Site powered by Webvision Cloud The Official website of Glentoran Football Club / Pride of East Belfast  Friday night was a big night at the BetMcLean Oval for the Ballynahinch Glentoran Supporters Club Club members presented a cheque to Keith Pyper Fundraising & Events Officer AutismNI The £1000 donated to AutismNI was raised at a Glentoran Legends match v Ballynahinch United Over 40s and through club member Ricky Tate’s head shave in Jordy’s Bar in the town Glentoran Manager Declan Devine joined the Ballynahinch crew for the presentation Also the Ballynahinch Club presented their 2023-2024 Player of the Year Award to Jonny Russell Yet another award for Jonny and how fitting he should receive it on the night of his return to first team action after a tough time with injuries Well done Jonny and well done Ballynahinch GSC Site funded by the Glentoran 'Our Club, Our Community' programme and developed by Avec Solutions Funeral service in Edengrove Presbyterian Church on Wednesday 5th March at 1.30pm afterwards to Lough Inch Cemetery Donations if desired for Friends of the Cancer Centre via online at www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheque c/o 20 Dromore Road Will be loved and remembered always by her sorrowing husband 2nd Timothy 4 v7FAKE FUNERAL SCAMS PLEASE NOTE YOU MAY RECEIVE UNSOLICITED MESSAGES FROM INDIVIDUALS POSING AS THE FAMILY WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO NOT ACCEPT THESE ‘FRIEND REQUESTS’ AND REMEMBER DONATIONS TO THE NOMINATED CHARITY CAN ONLY BE SENT VIA www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com Donate Visit Website [email protected] Helen Anna Isobel (Nee Martin) 21st April 2025 Dearly beloved wife of the late Robert Rea David and Sharon and proud grandmother and great-grandmother Ballynahinch on Thursday 24th at 2.15pm (family service in the home at 2pm) to 1st Presbyterian Church afterwards to the adjoining graveyard.Immediate family flowers only please Donations if desired online via www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or cheques payable to NI Air Ambulance c/o 20 Douglas Funeral Directors Will be loved and remembered always by her sorrowing daughters family circle and friends.Safe in the arms of Jesus Donate [email protected] Loving brother to David and brother-in-law to Shirley Dear uncle to Jonathan and Peter.House strictly private.A service celebrating Uel’s life will be held in Douglas Funeral Church Ballynahinch on Thursday 6th March at 2.30pm and afterwards to Edengrove Presbyterian graveyard Donations in lieu if desired via online at www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheque payable to Cancer Focus N.I Will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his family and circle of friends [email protected] Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her sister Kathleen nephews and wider family circle and by her religious family the Missionary Sisters of the Assumption Ballynahinch and South Africa.Her remains will repose in the Convent Chapel until the removal at 11.30am to St Ballynahinch for 12 noon Requiem Mass on Tuesday 11th March followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.Our Lady of the Assumption pray for her [email protected] Conor Rankin knows maintaining top form for Ballynahinch is crucial to his prospects of featuring for Ulster and Ireland It was a fairly one-sided game in Lisbon earlier this month Ireland Clubs beating Portugal A by the rather lopsided scoreline of 50-0 but it was far from just a fun hit-out for all of the tourists That was particularly true for former Ulster Academy full-back Conor Rankin One of the eight try scorers for the Clubs selected due to his stand-out performances for Ballynahinch it was both an honour and more tangible evidence that his rugby career is still on the right path even if it has been one of the less travelled ones MURPHY (nee Noade) Ballynahinch Died 21st February 2025 peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family Beloved wife of the late Paddy Murphy and loving mother of Clare Regan and Casey and great granny of Georgia 48 Croob Park.Funeral on Monday from her residence at 10.15am to St Burial afterwards in adjoining cemetery.Deeply regretted by her sons brothers and family circle.Donations in lieu of flowers to Marie Curie c/o Gerard McMullan Funeral Director Donations in lieu of flowers to Marie Curie c/o Gerard McMullan Funeral Directors [email protected] Funeral Service in Ballynahinch Free Presbyterian Church on Monday 10th February at 11 am Donations if desired online via www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or cheques payable Ballynahinch Free Presbyterian Church c/o Douglas Funeral Directors Will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family [email protected] James Humphreys will start at out-half for Ballynahinch against UCD Ballynahinch are determined to get their bid to make the Play-Offs back on an even keel again starting on Saturday at struggling UCD Hinch now find themselves fifth in Division 1A and needing to bank a result at Belfield when they meet the side they previously tasted victory against back in November James Humphreys is at out-half again for Hinch who also have Reuben Crothers Matthew Booth and Paul Kerr are at midfield for Hinch in the absence of the sidelined Mark Best and George Pringle are at home to Young Munster with Chris Parker’s squad seeking to secure a victory while also hoping that Hinch do a job on one from bottom UCD who are three points behind the Palace Grounds outfit Queen’s University travel to Old Belvedere a week on from their annihilation of Highfield though the task against the 1B leaders will be rather more formidable leaders Instonians are on the road at Barnhall in the wake of their last-gasp win at home to Cashel while Banbridge host Navan and relegation-battling Ballymena take on Old Crescent at Eaton Park Promotion-chasing Dungannon journey to Galwegians for their 2B fixture while third-placed Clogher Valley are at home to Sligo ninth-placed Malone go to UL Bohemians and Rainey entertain Skerries seven days after the Magherafelt club put Malone to the sword Belfast Harlequins clash with Monkstown at Deramore with the second-placed home team bidding to stay in the chase with leaders Midleton Omagh’s battle to avoid slipping out of the senior ranks continues but at Midleton Fixtures: Division 1A: City of Armagh v Young Munster Division 1B: Old Belvedere v Queen’s University Ballynahinch.Beloved husband of the late Susan Loving brother to Maisie and the late Jim and Robert.Funeral service in 1st Ballynahinch Presbyterian Church on Tuesday 21st January at 1.30pm and afterwards to Edengrove Presbyterian graveyard Donations if desired for Cancer Research via online at www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheque c/o 20 Dromore Road Will be forever loved and sadly missed by his sorrowing children and the entire family circle FAKE FUNERAL SCAMSPLEASE NOTE YOU MAY RECEIVE UNSOLICITED MESSAGES FROM INDIVIDUALS POSING AS THE FAMILY.WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO NOT ACCEPT THESE ‘FRIEND REQUESTS’ AND REMEMBER [email protected] peacefully in Marie Curie Hospice surrounded by her loving family beloved wife of Eugene and loving Mother of Bernadette Sister-in-law to Daphne and Aunt of Paula and Karen Ballynahinch for 1.00pm mass followed by burial in adjoining cemetery.The service can be followed on Belltron Streaming via the link: https://www.belltron.com/en/belltron-streaming House strictly private Donations in lieu of flowers to Marie Curie Hospice c/o Gerard McMullan Funeral Director Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on her soul [email protected] James Humphreys will feature for Ballynahinch against UCD League leaders Ballynahinch will have Ulster squad member James Humphreys making his debut for the club on Saturday as they chase a fifth straight win when hosting UCD The Division 1A pacesetters also have regular release Conor McKee who will link up at half-back with Humphreys — in for Jake Flannery Ethan Graham and Ben Moxham are featuring instead of Zac Ward and Aaron Sexton his place kicking being the difference last weekend when Hinch were victorious at Lansdowne “There has been a lot of player-driven stuff this year that seems to be paying off for us,” said coach Adam Craig “That nucleus of players being together for a couple of years and the coaching team being together for a couple of years seventh-placed City of Armagh go to Young Munster in need of points Queen’s University also need to pick things up as they have won just twice in Division 1B but face leaders Old Belvedere at the Dub host a Barnhall side two places behind them Dungannon can keep the pressure on leaders Wanderers as they host struggling Galwegians in 2B and seventh-placed Malone will look to follow up their victory at Skerries when UL Bohemians run out at Gibson Park the Magherafelt side still have Ryan Davies Tommy O’Hagan and Mark Lee all fighting fit aim to follow up their trouncing of Malahide when they journey to Sligo Ballyclare are on their travels and make the long trip to Dolphin seven days after achieving a dramatic result over Clonmel which moved Mike Orchin-McKeever’s squad up to second Belfast Harlequins are a place beneath Ballyclare in the table and the Deramore team are also on the road but to Dublin situated in eighth with one win from six rounds Division 1B: Queen’s University v Old Belvedere Family and friends welcome at Douglas Funeral Home Ballynahinch on Tuesday 28th Jan between 6pm and 8pm Funeral service in Magheradroll Parish Church on Wednesday 29th January at 2.30pm (family only at graveside for a private burial).No Flowers please via online at www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheques payable to Marie Curie c/o Douglas Funeral Directors Will be loved and remembered always by his grieving wife family circle and friends.FAKE FUNERAL SCAMS PLEASE NOTE YOU MAY RECEIVE UNSOLICITED MESSAGES FROM INDIVIDUALS POSING AS THE FAMILY Donate [email protected] Win HappyPremiumSearch Rayocool fmlocalnewsBallynahinch: bypass scheme will be "transformational" - Minister Work set to begin on the £60m plan in 2028 A new A24 bypass scheme for Ballynahinch in Co Down will be "transformational". That is according to Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins who visited the site today (Wednesday) to announce the scheme's next steps. Speaking to Downtown Radio & Cool FM, the minister said she was confident the funding - estimated between £50 and £60m would be secured. The proposed scheme will provide a single carriageway bypass, around 3.1 kilometres in length around the eastern periphery of Ballynahinch. Minister Kimmins has confirmed that the scheme will be moving forward to business case and procurement stage. During a visit to the town, Minister Kimmins said: “I am delighted to announce this positive step forward for the long-awaited A24 Ballynahinch Bypass scheme. I know that for the local community, businesses and commuters through the area this will be a welcome development. “This important project will help to significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the centre of Ballynahinch, improving journey time reliability, road safety and air quality on the busy A24 Belfast to Newcastle Road. "As part of my commitment to increase opportunities for active and sustainable travel I am also pleased that the scheme will include the provision of a new footway/cycleway and a park and share facility. “This will all serve to enhance the town centre environment and provide a more positive experience for locals and visitors alike.” Continuing the Minister said: “Major projects take years to develop and complete the necessary statutory orders, so we do need to prioritise the development and delivery of our schemes accordingly. On that basis and having already committed to take the A1 Junctions Phase 2 project to construction I can confirm that, in order to minimise the budget impact on future years, the Ballynahinch Bypass will be managed sequentially to the A1 Junctions project. “When completed, these strategic road improvement schemes will deliver for communities and road users for generations to come.” The Department will now commence the work to review and update the necessary documents to bring this scheme to procurement, including the finalising of the Business Case. This process is likely to take in the region of two years. With a procurement start planned in 2027/28, works could commence in 2028/29 and take 2 years to complete. Delivery of the scheme will be dependent on the successful completion of the statutory processes and the future availability of finance. Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) Jake Flannery will start for Ballynahinch against Terenure College Ulster out-half Jake Flannery gets a rare outing today as he starts for Ballynahinch when they host Terenure College for the return leg of the back-to-back rounds Flannery has had an injury-disrupted season and will be aiming to get through the game unscathed while assisting fourth-placed Hinch make an ideal start to 2025 and overcome losing at Terenure prior to Christmas Also togging out for the 1A side from Ulster are Reuben Crothers Conor McKee and Bryn Ward while club player Conor Rankin moves to the wing eighth-placed City of Armagh have Callum Reid and Cameron Doak on board for their back-to-back encounter with high-flying Clontarf at the Palace Grounds “It is making sure that we get our house in order so we can pick up as many points as we can each week,” said Armagh coach Chris Parker Queen’s University are at Old Wesley hoping to follow up their victory over the same opposition at The Dub Instonians go to Banbridge (2.00pm kick-off) for an Ulster derby a week after the 2A side were beaten in the Bateman All-Ireland Cup Final at Lansdowne “Our big emphasis is just making sure that we bounce back from Lansdowne,” said Inst coach Paul Pritchard “We have a tough block coming up here and it is really important for us that we start as strongly as possible.” Rainey travel to Clogher Valley for their concluding back-to-back round and hope to have Tommy O’Hagan Mark Lee and Jack Hardy all starting as they bid for a second straight result in 2B There is another Ulster derby at Gibson Park where Malone and Dungannon cross swords Belfast Harlequins have Thomas Armstrong starting for their 2C Ulster derby at Ballyclare Bradley Luney of Ballynahinch during his side's win over Malone A first half blitz of points ensured that Ballynahinch have progressed to the Semi-Finals of the Ulster Senior Cup after they defeated Malone 24-0 at a weather-hit Gibson Park And it turned out to be a fruitful afternoon for the other Ulster club in the AIL’s top flight as City of Armagh visited Shaws Bridge and knocked Senior Cup holders Instonians out of the competition as they prevailed 20-10 Receive today's headlines directly to your inbox every morning and evening Please check your inbox to verify your details Police responded to the accident in Co Down Adrian RutherfordWed 25 Dec 2024 at 13:21There is “shock” after a man was killed in a Christmas Eve road crash in Co Down died following the single vehicle collision on the Downpatrick Road in Ballynahinch on Tuesday afternoon It is the sixth fatality on Northern Ireland’s roads in as many days Three men died in separate accidents in Co Tyrone The victim of Tuesday afternoon’s crash has not yet been named Inspector Cherith Adair said: “Police received a report at approximately 4.45pm that a car had been involved in a collision alongside our colleagues from partner emergency services Local DUP councillor Alan Lewis said: “The community is shocked My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this very difficult time.” It follows a series of fatal accidents on local roads in the days before Christmas Amy Stokes (20) died in a single-vehicle accident near Derrylin in Fermanagh She was from the Ballyconnell area of Co Cavan A police spokesperson said: “Amy’s family have asked the Police Service to pass on that they are devastated by her loss and that she will be sorely missed by her family and friends.” said the young woman was “taken way too soon” and had her “whole life ahead of her” Local DUP MLA Deborah Erskine said the area was in shock “My heart absolutely breaks for the family of the young woman killed,” she said "Any time of the year is a devastating time to lose a loved one but to lose someone in such a tragic way at Christmas is utterly heartbreaking.” Sinn Fein councillor Declan McArdle said: “The news that a young woman has lost her life on the roads in Derrylin a lorry driver died after a collision near Beragh The accident happened shortly before 8am on the Moylagh Road area pedestrian Edmund Hughes was struck by a vehicle on Friday night He was taken to hospital but later died from his injuries Requiem Mass will take place at St Patrick’s Church in Dungannon on Friday followed by cremation in Lakeland’s Crematorium a man in his 70s died following a collision in Co Antrim on Friday night The accident happened when a black Porsche Cayenne mounted a roundabout on the Belfast Road in Ballynure and collided with a lorry A woman was taken to hospital for treatment of her injuries Garrick Wood died after the car in which he was travelling was involved in a collision near Victoria Bridge Watch: Firefighters battle blaze in north Belfast Peacefully at hospital surrounded by her family and his wife Aery and Christine and her fiancé Lee Dear sister to Harold and Robert.A Service to celebrate Laura’s life will be held in Douglas Funeral Church BT24 8HP on Tuesday 14th January at 11.30am A private cremation later.No flowers please Donations if desired via online www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheques payable to Marie Curie c/o Douglas Funeral Directors (address as above).Laura will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all the family.FAKE FUNERAL SCAMSPLEASE NOTE YOU MAY RECEIVE UNSOLICITED MESSAGES FROM INDIVIDUALS POSING AS THE FAMILY.WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO NOT ACCEPT THESE ‘FRIEND REQUESTS’ AND REMEMBER Donations if desired via online www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheques payable to Marie Curie c/o Douglas Funeral Directors (address as above) [email protected] A man who died in a Christmas Eve road crash in Co Down has been named by police as 34-year-old John Hanna Mr Hanna – who was from Downpatrick – died following the single-vehicle collision on the Downpatrick Road in Ballynahinch on Tuesday afternoon A PSNI spokesperson said: “Thirty four-year old John Hanna died following the single-vehicle collision on the Downpatrick Road just before 4.45pm “Collision Investigation Unit detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of the tragic collision and would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist with our enquiries local DUP councillor Alan Lewis said: “The community is shocked It was the sixth fatality on Northern Ireland’s roads in as many days Died peacefully surrounded by her loving family loving wife of the late James and devoted mother of Jim beloved sister of Belle and Peggy and the late Mary Pat and Dolway and the late Willy (Harte) and Xavier (Boyle) Dearly loved by all her 23 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.Our Lady of Lourdes pray for her.Sheila's remains will repose in her late residence 34 Ballylone Road Ballynahinch BT24 8XU on Saturday from 11.00am to 9.00pm and Sunday from 12noon to 4.00pm.Her remains will be removed on Sunday evening arriving at St Ballynahinch BT24 8AF at 6.30pm.Requiem Mass will be held on Monday 25th November at 11.30am Carrickmannon.Very deeply regretted by her sorrowing daughters great grandchildren and the wider family circle.Sheila's Requiem Mass may be viewed online https://streaming.belltron.comAll enquiries to Gerard McMullan Funeral Director [email protected] Much loved son of the late Alex and Sadie Reid Thanksgiving service will be held on Wednesday 5th March at 12 noon in Ballynahinch Methodist Church Donations in lieu if desired via online at www.douglasfuneraldirectors.com or by cheque payable to Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI Will be remembered fondly by the family circle and his many friends and colleagues [email protected]