The three members of Irish rap band Kneecap are ‘ceasefire babies’: they grew up on the streets of Belfast around the time of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 But the similarities between me and the band end there Despite what some of Kneecap’s fans might think there was nothing glamorous about life as a ‘ceasefire baby’ one of the best cinemas at the time was in Yorkgate it was situated at what is known as a ‘flashpoint’ where the Catholic New Lodge estate abutted the fiercely Protestant Tigers Bay A thick steel fence was meant to keep cinemagoers safe but it failed to stop the petrol bomb that was lobbed in our direction I vividly remember the screams of those who were injured Already a subscriber? Log in Ed McGuinness is a former officer in the British army Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for £3 Already a subscriber? Log in you need to enable JavaScript in your browser VideoWatch: Belfast City Marathon 2025 LIVE Widespread tributes have been paid to the chair of the Belfast City Marathon after his passing was announced just a day after the event took place in the city marathon organisers announced the death of John Allen and described him as a “deeply respected figure in the athletics community and a cornerstone of the Belfast City Marathon” It’s understood Mr Allen had been undergoing treatment for cancer over recent years Tens of thousands of people across Northern Ireland took part in the annual marathon on Sunday Mr Allen had been a director of the organisation for over four decades and served as chair for six In a statement the marathon organisers added: “John dedicated much of his life to the advancement of athletics in Northern Ireland "He was instrumental in shaping the Belfast City Marathon serving as a Director since its inception in 1982 and more recently as chair for six impactful years and passion for sport helped elevate the event into one of the most anticipated fixtures in the city’s calendar “Known not only for his remarkable technical contributions but also for his mentorship John played a pivotal role in guiding the Marathon’s management team and unwavering commitment left a lasting legacy that will continue to influence the event — and its people — for years to come Other tributes in the athletics community came from east Belfast running club Willowfield Temperance Harriers who said Mr Allen had a 60 year association with the organisation "John has been associated with Willowfield for over 60 years,” they wrote "His many years of service into the club have been invaluable especially around the clubs race who without him the race wouldn't be the success it is today “His wisdom and unwavering commitment to the athletics community in NI will always be remembered and he has left a lasting legacy that will continue for years to come Belfast firefighter to run Belfast marathon wearing full gear in memory of his friend who died from a heart attack “We know he will be greatly missed by everyone at Willowfield UK Athletics and at the Belfast Marathon.” Alliance Party MLA Peter McReynolds added his own tribute writing on social media: “I’m very sorry to see this I was fortunate to have met John over the years “A huge loss but he’ll be fondly remembered and his hard work will live on with every event he helped shape.” Receive today's headlines directly to your inbox every morning and evening Please check your inbox to verify your details Eight police officers were injured after a group of people threw items at officers near the Broadway roundabout. In a statement, Cliftonville said a "small minority of those attending the game" were involved in the disorder. Adding that representatives from the club plan to meet with the "relevant authorities" in the coming days. The statement said that the club "condemns all those responsible for the disorderly behaviour that occurred". "We are conscious that our genuine supporters were inadvertently caught up in the post-match events through no fault of their own and that those involved were a small minority of those attending the game," it continued. A 52-year-old man has been charged with disorderly behaviour and is due in court on 30 May. Two teenagers who were arrested have been released to be reported to a Youth Diversion Officer. People who heat their homes with oil have been advised to buy now despite the upcoming summer months. Hundreds of people have lined the streets in Dungannon after the Swifts won their first ever Irish Cup. The fire service said two people were cut out of a car following the collision in the Mullaghbrack Road area. Three band members were killed when their bus was ambushed by loyalist paramilitaries near Newry in 1975. Police received a report of a stabbing in the grounds of Mourneview Park just after midnight on Sunday. A victim of millionaire fraudster Jay Cartmill has told of how being scammed by the criminal known as ‘King Con’ was one of the most traumatic experiences of her life a former investment banker who has a degree in maths from Oxford University was tricked into providing her Barclays account details to Cartmill Cliftonville Football Club wish to address the incidents reported pre and post the Clearer Water Irish Cup Final at Windsor Park on Saturday Cliftonville FC fully engaged with all the relevant authorities on several occasions and cooperated on matters over which the Club had control or responsibility The Club’s position was made clear in our statement of April 28 and this was communicated across all our social media platforms providing advice to those intending to attend the Final Our position was also reported widely by several news organisations the Club condemns all those responsible for the disorderly behaviour that occurred We are conscious that our genuine supporters were inadvertently caught up in the post-match events through no fault of their own and that those involved were a small minority of those attending the game We will be seeking to meet with the relevant authorities in the coming days to discuss all these events as well as reflecting our supporters’ concerns over the policing operation that took place on Saturday Full contact details HERE Watch: Riot police deal with disorder following Irish Cup final Cliftonville Football Club has condemned the ‘disorderly behaviour’ that surrounded Saturday’s Clearer Water Irish Cup Final. The north Belfast club also promised to ‘reflect our supporters’ concerns over the policing operation’ for the Windsor Park fixture. The head of the NI Civil Service (NICS) privately apologised to the Deputy First Minister after the civil service inadvertently exposed that the DUP’s claims to have got rid of the Irish Sea border are nonsense. WhatsApp messages obtained by the Belfast Telegraph show that Stormont’s top official, Jayne Brady, said sorry to Emma Little-Pengelly six months ago after civil servants advertised for a ‘head of regulatory divergence’ — a post which would only be necessary if NI and Britain are to go their separate ways in multiple areas of existing law. Suzanne Breen's newsletter with expert analysis of what's important at Stormont Award-winning teacher Fred Brown is supposed to be enjoying his retirement, but he loves the job so much he still works part-time. The Belfast man was honoured at last year’s Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards, in partnership with Ulster Bank, for his dedication in helping the next generation forge a better future through Include Youth. Shauna Parkes at McConnell's Whisky Distillery A Belfast distillery is committed to increase female representation in the male-dominated industry and driving positive change. McConnell’s Whisky Distillery, in Crumlin Road Gaol, is on a mission to shatter the idea that whiskey is a drink for men only. The UK Digital Twin Centre has officially opened in Belfast, marking a major milestone in the UK’s digital innovation landscape. Delivered by Digital Catapult and funded by the Belfast Region City Deal and Innovate UK, the project is set to drive the next wave of industrial transformation by accelerating the adoption of digital twin technology across the UK’s critical sectors. The centre is projected to generate £62 million in economic value for the UK, with Belfast at the centre of this transformation. It will create new pathways for employment in digital, engineering and advanced manufacturing, particularly for Northern Ireland SMEs. Local companies will be able to access national supply chains, deep tech infrastructure and collaborative innovation opportunities. A Digital Twin is a dynamic virtual representation (‘twin’) of a physical asset, process, or system, bridging the physical and digital worlds. They turn data into real-time insights that can optimise performance, reduce costs, and predict outcomes before they happen. Since funding for the project was announced, Digital Catapult has brought together industry and innovators to identify adoption barriers and strategic interventions. “This centre brings together our technical expertise, facilities, and networks to unlock the power of deep technologies,’ said Susan Bowen, chief executive of Digital Catapult. “By connecting industries with cutting-edge technology through our programmes, we are enabling businesses to harness the full potential of digital twins-driving operational efficiencies, advancing sustainability, and sharpening the competitive edge of businesses.” At the centre’s opening, the project’s co-investing industry partners – Artemis Technologies, Spirit AeroSystems, and Thales UK – utilised the cutting-edge facilities, including the 360-degree immersive space and advanced technology lab, to demonstrate how digital twins are helping to solve complex operational challenges. These early-stage use cases emphasise the power of cross-sector collaboration to create scalable, practical solutions while building expertise that can be shared across industries, ultimately improving product design, building supply chain resilience, and decarbonising operations. Programmes delivered by the UK Digital Twin Centre will help businesses across the UK to demystify, demonstrate, and deploy digital twins. The centre has convened capabilities across digital twins six enabling technology areas - intelligence, data services, immersive and UX, cyber-physical systems, integration, and security - to make this emerging technology more accessible and interoperable across sectors and suppliers. Facebook pageTwitter feedRSS feed@2025 The Irish News Ltd Bobby Sands ought to be remembered not just as a hunger striker but as a “multi-faceted” person who was a “loving father” with a passion for music those attending the unveiling of statue of the one-time MP have heard The unveiling of the statue came on the eve of the 44th anniversary of 27-year-old Sands’ death in the Maze prison hospital on May 5 1981 A month before his death, he won the Fermanagh-South Tyrone Westminster seat in a by-election triggered by the sudden death of sitting independent republican Frank Maguire carrying a flag during a republican parade prior to his arrest in 1976 the cost of the statue was covered by fundraising efforts on behalf of the Bobby Sands Committee Sinn Féin MLA and former hunger striker Pat Sheehan said more than four decades after his death in the H Blocks “When all of us standing here today are dead and gone and largely forgotten about Bobby Sands will still be remembered,” the West Belfast representative said “He will remain a beacon of light for freedom loving people everywhere.” He said his fellow inmate “should not be remembered as a hunger striker only” “He was the loving father of an eight-year old son particularly here in Twinbrook between his two periods of imprisonment Today I visited the new Bobby Sands statue in his home community of Twinbrook.I was honoured to speak with members of the community who helped make this powerful tribute a reality.Bobby’s life and sacrifice continues to inspire people here in Ireland and across the world in… pic.twitter.com/TKLBgS11FT The first minister said she was “honoured to speak with members of the community who helped make this powerful tribute a reality”. “Bobby’s life and sacrifice continues to inspire people here in Ireland and across the world in pursuit of freedom and justice,” she said in a post on X. “I will continue to work to build a new and united Ireland for everyone who calls this island home.” Bobby Sands Trust secretary Danny Morrison paid tribute to those who raised funds for the statue. “Although it is in Bobby Sands’ name it represents the eleven other hunger strikers who died in 1981, 1976 and 1974,” he said. “Over time the hunger strike, as symbolic of republican resistance and a turning point in history, grows in stature, never diminishes. The battle for political status was an instrumental part of the battle for Irish freedom.” Today I visited the new Bobby Sands statue in his home community of Twinbrook.I was honoured to speak with members of the community who helped make this powerful tribute a reality.Bobby’s life and sacrifice continues to inspire people here in Ireland and across the world in… pic.twitter.com/TKLBgS11FT HMS Belfast has marked VE Day celebrations with an impressive gun salute as Sir Keir Starmer hosts a tea party in Downing Street for veterans four inch and anti-aircraft WW2 cannons were fired although The same guns were central in fighting German soldiers along the beaches of Normandy on D-Day The celebrations continue after a parade of 1,300 people made its way from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace with personnel from the US Ukraine and Germany joining the military procession in London as part of four days of events A Red Arrows flypast in the skies over London followed with the display also featuring 23 current and historic military aircrafts Actor Timothy Spall opened the proceedings by delivering a rendition of Sir Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech with the Royal Family marking the occasion as he watched the parade pass by Enthusiasts have gathered along The Mall ready to see the procession in the build-up to Thursday which marks exactly 80 years since the Allies formally accepted Nazi Germany’s surrender King Charles pictured chuckling with veteran in Buckingham Palace His Majesty spoke with veterans in Buckingham Palace and was seen in a joyous mood laughing alongside them Prince George is 'interested' in learning about WW2 veterans During Buckingham Palace's afternoon tea Prince William said that Prince George was "interested in finding out about the veterans" said: "The Prince said George is very interested in finding out about the veterans "George even asked my grandfather how old he was during his service." Littlefield added that he was "very proud" Keir Starmer welcomed World War Two veterans to Downing Street Norman Brown showing Queen Camilla a magic trick this afternoon Another tea party is being held at Buckingham Palace this afternoon World War Two veteran Norman Brown has been pictured while he shows a magic trick to the Queen at the dining table GB News presenter Ben Leo has revealed he was moved to tears during Monday's VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations Ben shared his emotional reaction while reflecting on the day's events I had a tear in my eye," Leo told viewers on GB News READ THE FULL STORY HERE After this morning's procession and flypast Sir Keir Starmer is hosting a street party Union Jack bunting along with patriotic plates and mugs have been laid out for guests HMS Belfast is currently hosting a private VE Day afternoon tea for the 80th anniversary of Germany's surrender to the Allied Forces in 1945 Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Joe Mines Veterans have praised today's ceremony saying the flyover was "wonderful." Among those who saw the flypast from Buckingham Palace was Ruth Barnwell who joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service aged 17 when her brother’s friend was killed on HMS Hood which was sunk during the Battle of the Denmark Strait on May 24 1941 by the German battleship Bismarck The King and Queen appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony today to mark VE Day 80 celebrations They were joined by their grandchildren from the Prince and Princess of Wales Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis stood alongside Their Majesties to watch the spectacular flypast over central London The spectacular flypast roared over Buckingham Palace creating a memorable five-minute display over central London People gather on The Mall as the Red Arrows perform a fly past over Buckingham Palace The military fly past passes over The Mall and Buckingham Palace Princess Charlotte joined the Royal Family today at the 80th anniversary celebration of VE Day in central London The young princess was seen with her parents King Charles and Queen Camilla were also present for the commemorations marking the end of the Second World War in Europe READ THE FULL STORY HERE. Veterans and members of the armed forces on the West Terrace in the gardens of Buckingham Palace The King and Queen waved from the balcony and were then joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales clapped and waved flags as the Red Arrows flew over the palace Crowds along the Mall cheered as the Red Arrows flew over Buckingham Palace Many people held their phones high in the air to record the moment as the aircraft flew over the palace Members of the public enjoy a street party outside the Wilbraham Club Street parties are being held across Great Britain as Britons celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day Members of the public were spotted enjoying a street party outside the Wilbraham Club in Preston GB News will be up and down the country to mark the occasion Bernard Morgan and Albert Keir on the West Terrace in the gardens of Buckingham Palace Bernard Morgan and Albert Keir on the West Terrace in the gardens of Buckingham Palace saluting the flypast the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte Members of the royal family watched with tilted heads from Buckingham Palace’s balcony as the VE Day flypast soared over The King and Queen as well as the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children were on the balcony reached the palace at 1.45pm with more planes following behind Second World War veterans are escorted into Buckingham Palace following the military procession scotch eggs and scones at the tea party at Buckingham Palace Also on the menu are potted shrimps with brown bread and butter They will dine on large tables in the Marble Hall which has been decorated in bunting made from fabrics recycled from the Royal estate who was in the RAF with the Mustang Squadron and was in Celle near Belsen on VE Day formally started the VE Day procession in central London on Monday Garrison Sergeant Major Warrant Officer Class One Andrew Stokes who was sat on a chair in Parliament Square flanked by cadets He said: “Thank you and your generation for securing our freedom 80 years ago May I have your permission to start the parade please?” Kennett had earlier been presented with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Torch of Peace by one of the cadets The Princess of Wales speaks to veteran Bernard Morgan during the military procession for the 80th anniversary of VE Day Princess of Wales was seen speaking to Bernard Morgan who was the youngest RAF sergeant to land on D-Day who enlisted in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force aged 17 in 1944 and served as a wireless operator working at RAF Chicksands Priory in Bedfordshire a station taking morse code messages from stations in Germany Beside him was Camilla who had Royal British Legion veteran Jack Mortimer on her right King Charles at the start of the procession The King stood and saluted as the start of the procession reached the Queen Victoria Memorial cadets and scouts watching on cheered and waved to the royal family from the paths nearby Members of the Ukrainian military march past the Palace of Westminster in central London Crowds on Whitehall cheered and clapped as Ukraine’s marching detachment passed the Cenotaph Some spectators stood on walls and street furniture to get a better view of the procession There was a sea of colour down Whitehall as the Band of the Irish Guards closely followed by the flags of the Commonwealth nations Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were last seen together in public when they attended the Christmas Day church service on the Sandringham Estate William shook the hand of one veteran as he passed him to take his seat and his children followed his example with Kate the last to greet the old serviceman and she sat beside him He later appeared to show her some photographs and she took one to give it a closer look King Charles and Queen Camilla have joined Second World War veterans to watch a military procession at Buckingham Palace The royal couple were accompanied by other members of the Royal Family and the Prime Minister for the commemorative event They gathered on the Queen Victoria Memorial outside the palace to observe military units processing down The Mall from Whitehall READ THE FULL STORY HERE. Actor Timothy Spall performs his reading of Sir Winston Churchill's 1945 victory speech Actor Timothy Spall has read a segment of Winston Churchill's victory speech to launch VE Day celebrations Speaking in Parliament Square in front of a statue honouring the wartime Prime Minister after Big Ben struck midday "This is not victory of a party or of any class It’s a victory of the Great British nation as a whole woman and child in the country had no thought of quitting the struggle "When shall the reputation and faith of this generation of men and women fail "I say that in the long years to come not only will the people of this island wherever the bird of freedom chirps in human hearts look back to what we have done and they will say: 'Do not despair march straightforward and die if need be unconquered.'" King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive ahead of the military procession for the 80th anniversary of VE Day The Princess Royal arrives ahead ahead of a military procession marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day and in honour of those who served during the Second World War The Royal British Legion is preparing to honour 31 Second World War veterans aged 98-104 as part of the 80th anniversary celebrations of VE Day These veterans will be positioned alongside members of the Royal Family and Prime Minister Keir Starmer to watch a grand military procession from Parliament to Buckingham Palace launching four days of national reflection and celebration marking the surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8 READ THE FULL STORY HERE. Members of the Household Cavalry on The Mall near Buckingham Palace in central London Members of the Household Cavalry on The Mall near Buckingham Palace have started to gather on The Mall ahead of the procession Groups of cadets and scouts have gathered on the path closest to the Queen Victoria Memorial and have been posing for group photos with Buckingham Palace in the background Young people are chatting excitedly and watching on Watch as two Ukrainian soldiers who will be taking part in the Victory in Europe (VE) Day commemorations speak to Stephen Dixon and Ellie Costello on GB News They told the People’s Channel they hope to celebrate their own victory day soon as war with Russia continues to rage on "We are so happy to be here to celebrate 80 years victory in Europe" READ THE FULL STORY HERE. joins the crowds at The Mall outside Buckingham Palace ahead of a military procession marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day As Britain prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day GB News asks its members should the Government do more to help our armed forces veterans Celebrations kick off today to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with four days of commemorative events kicking off with a military procession and flypast and end with a concert at the Horse Guard Parade The Government has announced that a two-minute national silence will be held to remember and thank those who fought for our freedom during the Second World War GB NEWS MEMBERS CAN HAVE THEIR SAY HERE. a military royal engineer from 1960 to 1972 travelled from Lincolnshire on Sunday to honour the veterans at the parade The 79-year-old said: "It’s about patriotism Smith has marched at the Cenotaph for 26 years and will watch the parade on Monday from The Mall His wife Muriel said: "Where we live in Lincolnshire there is always a bomber base five miles from you There’s still air raid shelters where we live." the 77-year-old said: "I just love the songs Minister for Veterans Al Carns joined GB News ahead of VE Day 80 celebrations The MP for Selly Oak was speaking as Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute to British veterans saying: "As we approach the VE Day anniversary I want to salute your ongoing dedication to keeping our country safe we celebrate the greatest victory our armed forces ever secured And like so many families across the country my relatives served and fought in the Second World War it is the highest honour of my role to meet veterans of that conflict." Satvinder Cubb and Grace Gothard made their own dresses for today's celebration who made their own dresses for the occasion join the crowds at The Mall outside Buckingham Palace So anytime there’s any Royal occasion I make my own dresses The last one was the King’s coronation and that dress is in a museum now." wearing a dress which reads Lest We Forget I had a Union flag one before but this year I wanted something simple to represent all the soldiers that actually fought It took just a few hours to make because it’s actually two flags joined together And I don’t have a sewing machine so it was all by hand." The pair met at the Queen’s jubilee and have attended Royal events together in handmade dresses ever since They arrived at The Mall at 6am this morning will be flying over to participate in today's VE Day celebrations The flypast will showcase a diverse array of aircraft including a Voyager transport aircraft and a P8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft GB News has taken a look at which aircrafts will be taking place in the flyby including historic Second World War-era aircraft from the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight READ OUR ANALYSIS HERE. Princess Kate is set to pay a "moving tribute" with her jewellery when she arrives at Buckingham Palace today The Princess of Wales is joining her husband as well as King Charles and Queen Camilla in London for celebrations to mark VE Day the managing director and co-founder of 77 Diamonds spoke exclusively to GB News about what the royal women are expected to wear today READ OUR EXCLUSIVE ANALYSIS HERE. GB News star Ben Leo has been speaking to Royal fans on The Mall who have been queuing since the early hours of this morning Dressed head to toe in a Union flag suit Michael Burn said: "Obviously I’m very patriotic so I make the most of any of these events the coronation or anything like that I’ll be here "I think we’ve been very lucky that we’ve had 80 years of peace and these are very troubled times at the moment and we’ve got to think about all those that have the ultimate sacrifice and there’s very few of them left now because they’re all over 100 "This is the last time we will celebrate the day in this sort of scale." Timothy Spall will be reprising his role from the 2010 Actor Timothy Spall is set to deliver a rendition of Winston Churchill’s triumphant 1945 address Spall is reprising his role as the Wartime Prime Minister from the 2010 Oscar winning film The King’s Speech from Parliament Square ending with the line: "This is not ­victory of a party or of any class It’s a victory of the great British nation as a whole" the Red Arrows will soar overhead Sir Keir Starmer has said that “we owe a debt of gratitude to those prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country” The Prime Minister said: "Our victory was not just for Britain It was also a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred that our debt to those who achieved it can never fully be repaid "Yet as the nation falls silent on Thursday I know that my mind will also turn to those who carry the torch of their legacy in our armed forces today Britain is preparing for a grand celebration marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a large-scale military procession and a dramatic flypast scheduled to take place in London on Bank Holiday Monday More than 1,300 members of the Armed Forces youth organisations and uniformed services will march from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO TODAY'S CELEBRATIONS HERE THREE people have been arrested after the disorder occurred during the Irish Cup Final at the National Stadium in Belfast yesterday The Police Service of Northern Ireland revealed that "a small minority chose to engage in criminal activity" resulting in a public disorder near the Broadway Roundabout at around 5:30pm During the Cliftonville and Dungannon Swifts match it was reported that items were thrown at police officers Some eight officers were injured during the course of the policing operation Three arrests were made during the disorder with two for "disorderly behaviour" while the other was an arrest of a juvenile for "possession of a flare" Five cautions were also issued for the possession of fireworks which will be followed up with reports to the Public Prosecution Service Mark Conway, Belfast City Chief Inspector, said: "Whilst the majority of football fans attending yesterday’s Irish Cup Final behaved in a peaceful manner, a small minority chose to engage in criminal activity, resulting in public disorder in the vicinity of Broadway Roundabout at approximately 5.30pm. “Items were thrown at police and at least eight officers were injured during the course of the policing operation, although all remained on duty. "Police remained in the area to monitor the situation and prevent any further escalation. and one arrest of a juvenile for possession of a flare “Five cautions were also issued for possession of fireworks and will be followed up with reports to the Public Prosecution service “The vast majority of fans were there to enjoy the match however we will not tolerate disruption disorder or criminal behaviour of any kind "As always we will continue to work with  football clubs to address any criminal activity linked to people attending matches and ensure that supporters are kept safe." Separately, an urgent appeal has been issued for witnesses following a stabbing at the Glenavon Football and Athletic Club in Lurgan, Co Armagh The police received a report of the stabbing incident just after midnight this morning Arriving at the scene, the 18-year-old man was taken to the hospital for "treatment to serious head injuries" An 18-year-old man has been arrested and remains in custody Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "We know there were a lot of people in the Club around the time of the incident so are asking for anyone who might have information that could help us with our enquiries to call police on 101 A report can also be made online using their non-emergency reporting form on the PSNI website they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online on their official Crimestoppers website A STATUE of Bobby Sands was unveiled in Twinbrook this afternoon not far from the IRA hunger-striker's home The statue depicts the MP for Fermanagh South Tyrone from the iconic photograph of Bobby carrying a flag during a republican parade in Andersonstown in 1976, just months before he was arrested. Bobby Sands died in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh on May 5 1981 after 66 days on hunger-strike 100,000 people attended his funeral two days later The 27-year-old was the first of ten republicans to die between May and August of that year in the prisoners' campaign for political status The statue by artist Packy Adams was unveiled beside the Republican Garden on Gardenmore Road to applause from those gathered Hundreds of people attended the unveiling in bright sunshine and listened to speeches from former West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey current Sinn Fein MLA Danny Baker and Pat Sheehan MLA who took part in the 1980 and 1981 hunger-strikes Reflecting on the “heroism and sacrifice” of Bobby Sands and the other hunger strikers Pat Sheehan said: “Their bravery set in motion a series of events that makes the momentum for political and social change unstoppable and irreversible “That momentum will carry us forward to the realisation of an Irish national democracy A republic where the rights and identity of all our people of whatever persuasion or background will be accommodated and cherished.” Mr Sheehan said that "Unionist domination is gone" He added: “There are more republicans than ever before and Sinn Féin is the biggest political movement on this island the opposite of what was intended by the British has come to pass Not only was criminalisation defeated but the injustice of partition and the role of the British state in Ireland was exposed to international scrutiny as never before.” Pat Sheehan said: “Bobby Sands didn’t die just to prove he was right a belief and an idea that his suffering and death would lead to a better world for the rest of us We no longer need or expect our young men and women to risk their lives and liberty on active service “That’s not to say there isn’t work to be done We need to redouble our efforts and all of us put our shoulders to the wheel Sign up to the daily Belfastmedia briefing to stay up to date with everything Belfast Developed and maintained by Soundlining © Copyright 2025 Belfast Media All rights reserved Developed and maintained by Soundlining © Copyright 2025 Belfast Media All rights reserved. https://www.derrynow.com/section/1245/advertise-with-us Bringing you live local breaking news, sport, politics, weather & more in Derry and County Derry All the latest breaking local news from Derry and County Derry Keep up to date with the latest sports news Read all the latest crime & court news in Derry and County Derry Read all the latest Irish news and updates from around Ireland Catch up on all the latest business news in Derry and County Derry Find whats happening in and around Derry and County Derry Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Derry and County Derry Read about the latest properties available in Derry and County Derry Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Derry and County Derry Derry and County Derry Met Eireann Weather Forecast Recent death notices and obituaries from Derry and County Derry Latest environmental and climate change news in County Derry Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. 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BELFAST — Belfast Police reported the following activity April 8-25 An arrest or summons does not constitute a conviction and those charged are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law Juveniles aged 17-or-younger are not named was issued a summons for theft by unauthorized taking or transfer on Searsport Ave was issued a summons for criminal conspiracy on Mill Lane on April 8 and also issued a summons for theft on Mill Lane April 9 was issued summonses for unlawful possession of a schedule W drug and violating a condition of release on Poors Mill Road Thanks to our readers and especially our supporters who help to keep PenBayPilot.com an open and accessible community hub Your support is even more critical during rapidly changing times While we work hard to keep you informed about the Midcoast community We are grateful to those who already participate Join for as little as $2.99 per month and support local journalism on a community hub that serves everyone X The Ireland ice hockey team playing a match Ice-hockey teams have welcomed the news of a first ever winter sports arena in Dublin, as some still face up to 10-hour round trips for training on ice in Belfast. The proposed €190m development is planned for a site in Cherrywood, south Dublin, and would mark a major milestone for Irish winter sports. CommentKsenia Samotiy: Blaming immigration for all your problems is easy to do, but it doesn’t solve anythingThere was a big anti-immigration march in Dublin the weekend before last. There were chants of “whose streets? our streets”, calls for mass deportation, and Conor McGregor posting encouraging tweets for the protesters. Derivative sentiments about … Notifications can be managed in browser preferences. I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Music and laughter filled the air as young and old came together for a VE Day anniversary street party in east Belfast Part of the city’s Woodstock Road was closed off to facilitate the Bank Holiday Monday community gathering to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe. The cloudless skies added to the party atmosphere as pensioners enjoyed afternoon tea in the spring sunshine while children played on carnival rides and amusements further up the road. Jane Watterson, a former champion flute player, was one of the performers who took to the stage to entertain the crowds. The Scottish-born musician, who lives in Carrickfergus, congratulated the organisers of the event. “I love it – the fact that you’ve got all the wee dance troupes, you’ve got the Ulster Scots side of it, all different musicians, there’s something to suit everybody,” she said. “And they do so well with the pensioners as well. They all get their wee high tea and all their different things. They’re inclusive of everybody, regardless of age, colour, creed or religion.” Ms Watterson said it is important that the story of VE Day is passed on to the younger generations. “I think it’s important to mark it every year,” she added. “To me, personally, every day is Remembrance Day because of everything that has gone on over the years and is still ongoing. But I do think it’s important to mark it.” Janet Caldwell and her husband, William, joined her sisters-in-law, Rita and Edna, for the event. “I think it’s very good for the community,” she said. “It’s good for the kids, plenty of fun, everybody together. It’s a good day for it. “We’ve just come down for the afternoon tea at the Peppercorn (cafe) and my wee grandchild will come over to the funfair.” She added: “It’s about remembrance really, and it’s about fun and coming together and just having a good laugh, having a good day and the sun’s out.” The party was hosted by the Titanic Historical and Cultural Society with support from the National Lottery’s Community Fund. Event organiser Stephen Gough said planning work began 11 months ago. “Just behind us is Willowfield war memorial and the community are very proud of it,” he said. “But at the same time, as well as remembering, it’s about coming out, meeting people that you haven’t seen for a while, old friends, and the community coming out and having a good time, putting the smiles on their faces, seeing the children happy. “And that’s what it’s really all about – as well as remembering VE 80.” Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival was the brainchild of playwright Martin Lynch and developed by Sean Kelly (above) "We've survived all sorts of challenges.. From "spit and sawdust" beginnings to a major 10-day cultural celebration one of Northern Ireland's leading festivals is celebrating 25 years of showcasing the arts Conceived in the shadow of the Good Friday Agreement peace deal the first Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (CQAF) was staged in May 2000 in an attempt to regenerate Belfast's north inner city the city's cultural infrastructure has drastically improved but financial support for the arts is at an "all-time low" CQAF prides itself on being as accessible as possible with numerous free events and low-cost ticket pricing Now established as a limited company with charitable status the festival's income is evenly divided between self-generated and public funds we wanted to make the arts a bit more affordable for people," Mr Kelly said as he reflected on the festival's early days "We're trying to make sure that we don't price people out and make going to concerts and theatre just the preserve of people that have money that's very much a part of our ethos." The Department for Communities has acknowledged that funding to the Arts Council of Northern Ireland "has decreased The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.Skip X post by Cathedral1/4ArtsFestAllow X content This article contains content provided by X. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read X’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’ The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.End of X post by Cathedral1/4ArtsFestThis year's festival is taking place from 1 to 11 May and features more than 100 performances across dozens of venues CQAF presents a combination of renowned acts attracting more than 60,000 audience-goers to Belfast's cultural quarter "There's been many amazing moments," Mr Kelly told BBC News NI Standout performers have included Liam Clancy "who Bob Dylan regards as the greatest folk singer in the world" who played at the festival just a few months before his death in 2009 The same year attracted the likes of American soul singer Candi Staton "He was little more than a bedroom DJ he played in our marquee in Custom House Square," Mr Kelly said "He's one of the biggest music producers in the world but I can tell you we weren't paying him a big fee in those days!" Another highlight was Patti Smith's appearance at the 2003 festival The punk pioneer performed at a former Ulster University student union building "It was kind of spit and sawdust but it was probably one of the most mesmerising performances I've ever seen in my life," Mr Kelly said The Cathedral Quarter in Belfast is known for its creative and cultural scene Mr Kelly isn't chasing scale or status "We don't need to be the biggest festival in Ireland. If we do 100 shows and each of them are amazing Belfast's nightlife and arts epicentre has changed significantly in the last 25 years and a "spiritual need" for music comedy and theatre "is there and growing" "When we started there was no Black Box there was no real infrastructure in the area "We need to make sure that however successful the Cathedral Quarter becomes however great the bar and restaurant culture is Indie-folk musician AOIBHA is this year's Artist In Residence Artists like Belfast-born singer-songwriter AOIBHA who is stepping into a new role as the 2025 Artist in Residence at the festival - a moment she describes as both an honour and a full-circle experience The role sees AOIBHA deeply involved with the festival performing multiple support slots and culminating in her own headline show on 10 May It's a position she doesn't take lightly reflecting on how previous artists in residence inspired her "I've really looked up to them," she said "When I was offered the opportunity it was a no-brainer." A passionate advocate for Belfast's arts culture AOIBHA credits the city's small size for fostering creativity "The people are fantastic - welcoming and with the best sense of humour," she said "It's a city where you can quickly get to know other musicians in the scene There's a real ability to build community and build strong connections." As for her upcoming shows during the festival AOIBHA is especially excited about supporting acts like The Magic Numbers it's her own headline show at the Harrison Hotel that stands out "It's a unique space for a gig," she said "I don't think anything like this has happened in that room before so I'm really excited by the challenge." This moment is more than just a career milestone it's a reflection of years spent immersed in Belfast's music community "There were so many times I stood in the audience thinking: 'One day I want to play on that stage'," she said "It feels like a really important time for me now Some Belfast Cathedral Quarter bars to close early Stormont short-sighted on arts funding - Lightbody Top storiesRussia says all airports in Moscow shut after drone attack Live. ASAP Rocky, Shah Rukh Khan and Chappell Roan arrive at Met Gala for fashion's big night VE Day 80: Poignant thank you to a heroic generation Americans used to be steadfast in their support for Israel. Those days are gone Attenborough at 99 delivers 'greatest message he's ever told' 'A day to remember' and 'PM prepares' for Russia attack What impact might Trump's Hollywood tariffs plan have? What Canada's Mark Carney can expect when he meets Trump India worried about Chinese 'dumping' as trade tensions with Trump escalate VE Day moments so far - and what's still to come Politics Essential: Get the latest news and analysis delivered to your inbox every weekday The final series of Man Like Mobeen has arrived Louis Theroux visits the West Bank to meet Israeli settlers Not since the Sex Pistols delivered a volley of swear words on live television in 1976 has a band generated so much moral outrage for what it says rather than what it sings The Pistols became targets of cancel culture decades before the term was coined as venue after venue refused to host their Anarchy in the UK tour Now the Irish language rap trio Kneecap is facing a similar backlash after their “F*** Israel” graphics at the Coachella festival in California led to a trawl of social media that unearthed videos of a band member shouting “Up Hamas”, telling fans to “kill your local MP” and brandishing a Hezbollah flag Kneecap performing at Coachella last monthA gig at the Eden Project in Cornwall has been cancelled Watch: Statue of Bobby Sands unveiled in Twinbrook area of west Belfast A statue has been unveiled in memory of IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands in Belfast The statue of the hunger striker and former MP was revealed at the Republican Memorial Garden in Twinbrook. CloseIt is the UN's International Day of Happiness of the World Happiness Report which ranks the world's happiest countries by asking people to evaluate their lives Both the UK and the US slipped down the list to 23rd and 24th respectively - the lowest-ever position for the latter But it's not miserable for everyone in the UK - Belfast is the happiest place in the country according to the Office for National Statistics Because people in towns and cities that would return a lost wallet Mark Easton went to Belfast to test the theory Read more on which countries rank highest in the happiness report Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRead descriptionExplore moreWill happier people return your lost wallet 00:01:36Will happier people return your lost wallet 1:36Up Next Moment Nasa astronauts begin journey back to Earth 00:01:32Moment Nasa astronauts begin journey back to Earth 1:32Moment drink falls on man's lap leading to $50m settlement 00:00:44Moment drink falls on man's lap leading to $50m settlement 0:44Watch: First responders drive through brush fire cutting off Florida Keys 00:00:49Watch: First responders drive through brush fire cutting off Florida Keys 0:49Editor's recommendationsWatch: BBC reports from pier 33 - the gateway to Alcatraz 00:01:40Watch: BBC reports from pier 33 - the gateway to Alcatraz 1:40Watch: Prince Louis steals the show as royals mark VE Day 00:01:25Watch: Prince Louis steals the show as royals mark VE Day 1:25Watch: How Lady Gaga's record-breaking concert almost ended in disaster Video 00:01:21Watch: How Lady Gaga's record-breaking concert almost ended in disaster 1:21'Trump was the game-changer': Three things to know about the Australian election result 00:01:20'Trump was the game-changer': Three things to know about the Australian election result 1:20Prince Harry 'can't see a world' where his family will visit the UK 00:02:54Prince Harry 'can't see a world' where his family will visit the UK 2:54Watch: Key moments from the local elections.. 00:01:32Watch: Key moments from the local elections.. 1:32Watch: Reform by-election win raises questions for Labour and Tories 00:01:11Watch: Reform by-election win raises questions for Labour and Tories 1:11Russell Brand's court appearance explained.. 00:00:50Russell Brand's court appearance explained.. 0:50Ros Atkins on.. What's in the US-Ukraine resources deal 1:23Kamala Harris hits out at Trump in first major speech since losing election 00:01:18Kamala Harris hits out at Trump in first major speech since losing election 1:18Watch: Moment Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi is released 00:00:46Watch: Moment Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi is released hosting bus and train services within a bland and functional atmosphere which was presumably the intention of its designers when it opened eight months ago at a cost of £350m I have passed through it on a number of occasions in light of all the angry statements circulating in recent weeks I took the opportunity to have a slightly more detailed look around while heading to an engagement in Dublin and it remains baffling that Ireland’s largest integrated transport facility could be launched without proper arrangements for arriving and departing taxis as well as the basic amenity of a cycle rack The approach on foot from the main thoroughfare of Great Victoria Street still necessitates negotiating a sprawling building site before reaching a concourse which is largely devoid of internal characteristics which would identify it with the city of Belfast There was a small but well-presented photographic exhibition in one corner featuring present day transport staff cheerfully going about their duties while the slightly puzzling but inoffensive imagery on an exterior wall seemed like something of an afterthought A strong case remains for the provision of striking and appropriate public artwork although it is perhaps understandable that the authorities have so far avoided any related decisions which might attract further political commentary What has all the appearance of a contrived argument has surrounded the belated scheme for dual language signage of the kind which is commonplace in Scotland and Wales but apparently regarded as a threat to the union by some in Belfast It was noticeable that the initial Tannoy greeting on the Enterprise in Grand Central Station was in Irish and accidently or otherwise the opposite policy was followed in Connolly Station on the return journey Read more: DUP’s incoherent war on Irish at Grand Central Station is a petty distraction from the real battles Stormont should be fighting against ill health, poverty and deprivation - The Irish News view My trip to Dublin was unremarkable and precisely on time throughout giving me the opportunity to reflect on other journeys I made along part of the same line while working in Co Antrim more than four decades ago The 4.55pm from Ballymena passed through Antrim town and Lisburn on its way to Belfast back then although it follows a different route these days and I was on nodding terms with the other daily commuters on what was a small two-carriage train separated into smoking and non-smoking sections January 17 1980 turned out to be an unexpectedly quiet day in our weekly newspaper office with a couple of possible stories falling through with our latest edition already in the shops I should go home an hour earlier than normal While I returned to the city without incident two IRA members got on the next train at Dunmurry with the ludicrously risk-filled plan of leaving a bomb attached to a timer and a petrol can under a seat disembarking at the next stop and telephoning in a warning to The Samaritans placed between loyalist Sandy Row and the nationalist Grosvenor Road could in some ways come to symbolise our wider transformation but only if we concentrate on extending respect to all sections of our divided society The device exploded as soon as they attempted to prime it with devastating consequences for everyone present as what was effectively a huge fireball was blasted along the non-smoking section where I usually sat Three people were killed instantly - one of the IRA members and a 35-year-old Nigerian born accountant Max Olorunda - with five others in the carriage A friend who had been passing through Ballymena station subsequently told me that the 4.55 was already pulling out when Mr Olorunda ran in a few seconds late but he managed to attract the attention of the staff who stopped it further along the platform allowing him to jump on after he gratefully shook hands with the guard a conductor on the same train whispered that he had given my description as a regular passenger to police who were attempting to identify the charred remains of those caught in the inferno I often think about the dead on the 4.55 from Ballymena as well as considering all the others who lost their lives in the course of the Troubles of the last 50 years and beyond could in some ways come to symbolise our wider transformation since then Letters to the Editor are invited on any subject. They should be authenticated with a full name, address and a daytime telephone number. Pen names are not allowed. Emmet McGuigan is accused of damaging a PSNI car A Co Down man who allegedly evaded police for more than a decade has appeared in court charged with dangerous driving after he caused up to £15,000 worth of damage to a PSNI vehicle Emmet McGuigan appeared in the dock of Lisburn Magistrates Court where the 38-year-old confirmed he understood the seven charges against him all alleged to have been committed around Fatham Lane in Newry on Friday A 52-year-old man has been charged following disorder after the Irish Cup final in which eight PSNI officers were injured Three people were arrested during the disorder that followed Saturday’s Irish Cup Final between Cliftonville and Dungannon Swifts The 52-year-old man has been charged with disorderly behaviour and is due to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Friday May 30 the charge will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) Two teenagers who were also arrested have been released to be reported to the Youth Diversion Officer The disorder began as the PSNI were escorting Cliftonville FC supporters from the National Stadium on Boucher Road following their side’s penalty shootout defeat to Dungannon in the decider and other missiles were thrown at riot police by a small section of Cliftonville fans and a car window was also smashed as a result The disorder continued on the Donegal Road for a short time after with items being set alight by local youths who became embroiled in the trouble Bottles were thrown at police lines during the disorder Police also responded to reports of a brawl on the Falls Road at its junction with Donegall Road Belfast City Chief Inspector Mark Conway said: “Whilst the majority of football fans attending yesterday’s Irish Cup Final behaved in a peaceful manner a small minority chose to engage in criminal activity resulting in public disorder in the vicinity of Broadway Roundabout at approximately 5.30pm “Items were thrown at police and at least eight officers were injured during the course of the policing operation Police remained in the area to monitor the situation and prevent any further escalation “Five cautions were also issued for possession of fireworks and will be followed up with reports to the Public Prosecution service.” Inspector Conway added: “The vast majority of fans were there to enjoy the match we will continue to work with football clubs to address any criminal activity linked to people attending matches and ensure that supporters are kept safe.” East Belfast celebrates 80th anniversary of VE Day with sunny street party May 8 will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with people across the nation taking this week to commemorate an extraordinary milestone since the end of the Second World War Jane Watterson during VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Laurence Gorman and William Craig at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Jane Watterson and her grandson Elliot at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Cameron Lilley and Jenni Stanex at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Glyn & Jane Harbinson at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Niamh CampbellYesterday at 18:15The sun was shining down on May Day Monday as families and entertainers gathered for VE Day celebrations in east Belfast DUP leader Gavin Robinson remarked that “street parties across the UK and here at home reflect our shared history and our duty to never forget” the Titanic May Community Festival got underway on the Woodstock Road from 12pm on Monday Revellers young and old came out to enjoy the day who is a dedicated member of the East Belfast Community Committee He attended Monday’s festivities alongside the East Belfast Arch Committee who are fundraising for a Loyal Orders Arch to be installed at Templemore Avenue on July 1 John said that VE Day is important to him “because our young ones need to be educated by people like us as to what older ones — older than me — gave up so that we can remain in a free and democratic society today and I don’t think it is educated [as much] now “I was fortunate enough to go out to the Somme “I did a bit of research myself and I went on a couple of trips John previously travelled to the Suzanne Military Cemetery in Suzanne a village in the Department of the Somme where more than a hundred British war veterans are buried “I found a great-uncle of mine buried there,” John continued The words were from St John’s Gospel: “Greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.” There was an array of free entertainment during Monday’s event including Ulster Scots dancers and The Victory Rollers — a close harmony group Classical flautist Jane Watterson also played on the community stage wearing a Union flag dress and accompanied by her biggest fan originally from a town called Kilwinning in North Ayrshire because there’s always somebody who’s lost their life or whatever But I do think it’s really important to mark every milestone and not just the big ones,” she said “I was very privileged to take part in this wee thing today it’s family inclusive — the kids getting on the rides I think it’s really good that they can make it fun where they’re teaching children and adults who maybe don’t know the history everything through the wars and how commemorations are done properly.” Cameron Lilley (19) and Jenni Stanex (20) believe that as well as bringing a sense of cohesion and fun to the area it’s important that those attending recognise the reasons for the celebrations too “I think the day itself is just a good day for the community to bring us all together,” explained Cameron “VE in itself — Victory in Europe in 1945 — was just a very important day and I think the community itself recognises that and recognises the lives that were lost during the war “There are a lot of people around here who have connections to people who went and fought in the war [It’s great] just to remember that and recognise their sacrifice “I think it’s very important for young people today to recognise their own culture on both sides — embrace your culture and embrace your traditions “I think it’s extremely important for people to be educated on where they’re from and what their community is about.” A special service also took place at Belfast Cathedral on Sunday to mark the start of VE Day commemorations There will be many continued initiatives across NI throughout the week details of which can be found on individual council websites the replica Spitfire will be open for photographs and visiting Belfast City Hall will also be illuminated in red on both Wednesday and Thursday Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter Support our mission and join our community now you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism Music and laughter filled the air as young and old came together for a VE Day anniversary street party in east Belfast Part of the city’s Woodstock Road was closed off to facilitate the Bank Holiday Monday community gathering to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe The cloudless skies added to the party atmosphere as pensioners enjoyed afternoon tea in the spring sunshine while children played on carnival rides and amusements further up the road was one of the performers who took to the stage to entertain the crowds “I love it – the fact that you’ve got all the wee dance troupes there’s something to suit everybody,” she said “And they do so well with the pensioners as well They all get their wee high tea and all their different things Ms Watterson said it is important that the story of VE Day is passed on to the younger generations “I think it’s important to mark it every year,” she added every day is Remembrance Day because of everything that has gone on over the years and is still ongoing But I do think it’s important to mark it.” “I think it’s very good for the community,” she said and it’s about fun and coming together and just having a good laugh The party was hosted by the Titanic Historical and Cultural Society with support from the National Lottery’s Community Fund Event organiser Stephen Gough said planning work began 11 months ago “Just behind us is Willowfield war memorial and the community are very proud of it,” he said meeting people that you haven’t seen for a while and the community coming out and having a good time " + $(".testo_articolo").html().replace(//g please subscribe and support local journalism Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles To continue reading this article for FREE,please kindly register and/or log in Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news Derry BT redundancy payments capped at one year Derry - Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie A 45-year-old man allegedly tried to headbutt his elderly mother in a row over a games console Seamus Baker appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Monday accused of common assault and causing criminal damage to some household belongings The scene of the incident on the Glen Road Emergency services were at the scene of a serious two-vehicle crash in west Belfast on Sunday night The incident happened on the Glen Road shortly after 10:30pm The PSNI and three fire appliances attended the scene Former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard is a free agent after leaving his role as manager of Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia Liverpool’s iconic former captain Steven Gerrard will be coming to Belfast next month to mark the football club’s 20-year anniversary of their triumph in Istanbul May 25 marks the date Liverpool won their fifth European Cup following a dramatic comeback and penalty shootout victory against AC Milan in Turkey the man who led the victory and appeared more than 500 times across a glittering Liverpool career is meeting fans in Northern Ireland as part of an event at the Crowne Plaza in Belfast on June 28 The former Rangers and Aston Villa manager will also share his footballing insights and relive some of the most memorable moments from his illustrious career with Liverpool The 44-year-old will also head to Dublin for a similar event the day before Gerrard said he was “thrilled” to celebrate “the 20th anniversary of our incredible Champions League win” “It's a moment that will forever be etched in my memory and I'm looking forward to sharing some of my favourite stories and memories with the fans along with all things Liverpool FC and this season’s momentous 20th league title Among the packages fans can purchase include a ‘Gold VIP’ experience for £295pp which includes a drink on arrival a meet and greet with a professional photo alongside Gerrard a limited edition signed 2005 Istanbul jersey and a signed Champions League trophy image An Audience with Steven Gerrard will take place on Saturday June 28 at the Crowne Plaza Belfast by IHG on Milltown Road More details can be found here ​Paddy McKillen’s lawyers have accused members of the Qatari royal family of exploiting his services in a luxury hotel empire expansion citing “striking similarities” to other practices by the Qataris including claims that migrant construction workers were not paid during the World Cup The court complaint filed by McKillen’s lawyers in the Central District of California was put forward under America’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (Rico) Act McKillen’s legal team must establish a pattern of alleged racketeering activity meaning they must provide previous examples they claim show such actions – such as allegations that companies linked to the Qataris failed to pay workers in the past Margaret Canning's selection of business stories sent every Tuesday Tilahun Nigussie of Ethopia (centre) won the Belfast Marathon with a new event record of 2:13:37 Second was Aaron Hanlon with Stephen Connolly in third There were some quality local performances in Sunday’s Moy Park Belfast City Marathon but once again the top of the podium belonged to visitors from much further afield The women’s race was won by Kenya’s Millicent Kibet but the main headline-maker and record-breaker was Tilahun Nigussie from Ethiopia He put on arguably the most spectacular display ever in this the 43rd running of the event that boasted some 6,000 runners in the marathon plus 2,750 teams in the five-person relay making a total of over 20,000 participants Warm weather conditions and negligible wind facilitated good times and many runners fulfilled their expectations The quality of local talent was possibly the best yet with some 205 athletes breaking the magical three-hour barrier Kenya’s Millicent Kibet (centre) took victory in the women’s race ahead of runner-up Lalla Aziza Selsouli and Gladys Ganiel in third However pride of place must go to Nigussie with an eye-catching time of 2 hrs 13 mins 37 secs which took four seconds off the 2012 record set by fellow countryman Urga Negewo Yesterday’s run was even more special as Nigussie raced with no one for company throughout the race whereas the 2012 time was the result of the combined efforts of three different athletes There had was some doubt as to Nigussie’s fitness as he had recorded a classy PB time of just outside 2 hrs 13 mins in South Korea last October However the 28-year-old has talent to burn as shown by his record of five marathons under 2 hrs 16 mins since 2015 and afterwards revealed he could return to Belfast to defend his crown In the race itself Nigussie had opened a huge two minute gap on the field at the seven-mile mark in Ormeau Park Behind him Drogheda’s Aaron Hanlon was battling with surprise runner Millicent Kibet of Kenya Annadale’s Stephen Connolly in his first marathon Robbie Hagan and English athlete David Stewart These athletes remained in these positions for much of the race with the only development being Nigussie’s incredible change of pace in the second half of the race where he was timed some five minutes faster than in his first half officials had to wait over 13 minutes before Hanlon secured second in 2:27:06 Bronze and first NI finisher went to Connolly with 2:29:30 while Largy was fourth in 2:32:09 The top six was completed by Hallamshire’s David Stewart (2:33:58 ) and Daniel Squires (2:34:14) who had run 2hrs 31 mins in March in Barcelona Hanlon was naturally pleased with his first marathon time but faced a balancing act now over his future plans due to teaching responsibilities His plan in Belfast had been aiming at a 2 hrs 23 mins time but his legs cramped over the last three miles Connolly also experienced cramp at that stage but was nevertheless pleased by his top NI spot Kibet was lucky to finish as she had a grim experience in the second half which she ran almost 10 minute slower than her first She finished in 2:38:30 and was so exhausted after her race she had difficulty talking other than to simply say she was This was in contrast to a positive Lalla Aziza Selsouli in second place who said she found the course harder than a year ago when she set new record figures of 2:35:20 Selsouli said she was grateful to the organisers for inviting her back and was more than happy to return again next year to finally secure victory Local star Gladys Ganiel commented that she had never raced in a marathon before where she ran the entire event on her own She finished third in 2:45:46 and said she was pleased to again retain her NI title but the 48-year-old revealed she would take time to consider her future There were PBs for fourth-placed Judith Storm (2:48:28) Sarah McNutt of North Belfast (2:53:33) and Anna Donner (2:56:08) the west Belfast man who stalked a solicitor who represented a woman against him in court highlights the current gaps that exist when it comes to the protection of frontline professionals The harassment of those working at the coalface of our legal profession is something that doesn’t get enough attention or support Ex-Aston Villa player Peter McParland (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) Peter McParland of Aston Villa (and Northern Ireland) scores his team's second and winning goal in the 1957 FA Cup final against Manchester United at Wembley (Photo by Douglas Miller/Keystone/Getty Images) McParland was one of NI's stars at the 1958 World Cup finals in Sweden Liam TunneySun 4 May 2025 at 21:57Premier League club Aston Villa has paid tribute to former NI star Peter McParland The Newry-born man had been the last surviving member of the club’s 1957 FA Cup-winning side McParland netted both goals when Villa defeated Manchester United 2-1 in the showpiece and hit the winner four years later as the club lifted the League Cup In doing so he became the first footballer to score in the finals of both major English cup competitions The winger had been playing for Dundalk when he was brought to Villa Park by then-manager George Martin making his home debut in a September 1952 fixture against Wolves He won the first of 34 Northern Ireland caps while still a teenager in 1954 and became the first Aston Villa player to play at the World Cup finals for NI in 1958 The Newry man found the net five times at the 1958 World Cup as NI reached the quarter finals before suffering a 4-0 defeat to France He holds the record for being the highest-scoring NI player in World Cup finals history McParland scored 121 time sin 134 appearances for the Villans also helping them to a Second Division league title in 1959-60 he moved to cross-town rivals Wolves for £35,000 in January 1962 before going on to play for Plymouth Argyle Worcester City and Glentoran along with spells in Canada and the USA In a lengthy tribute posted to the club’s website Aston Villa FC said: “Aston Villa Football Club is profoundly saddened to learn that Peter McParland the last surviving member of the club’s 1957 FA Cup-winning team "Equally at home at centre-forward as on the left wing McParland boasted a powerful header of the ball as well as possessing a talented left foot "The last survivor of the 1957 FA Cup-winning team he was a guest of the club at the 2015 cup final against Arsenal “McParland also attended a special exhibition at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery in January this year to celebrate the club’s 150th anniversary “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Peter’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time Runners set off from Stormont for the Belfast City Marathon The streets were awash with colour as over 20,000 runners took part in the record-breaking 43rd Belfast CIty Marathon in blazing sunshine From fitness fanatics and fun runners to elite athletes and those doing shorter relays for charity the city was buzzing with energy from early on Sunday morning The sun ensured a pleasant day for spectators even if it did sap the energy of those pounding the streets As well as a new record time being set and the first female wheelchair participant competing the number of runners was the highest ever with 6,500 signed up to run the full distance 2,750 relay teams of between two and five people The annual event started at Stormont Estate and finished up in Ormeau Park where runners finally had a chance to catch their breath SDLP leader Claire Hanna became the first MP to finish the race with the added bonus of crossing the line in her own constituency Posting a photo of herself in Ormeau Park smiling and clutching her medal Belfast Marathon done — 26.2 miles of slog & inspiration jelly beans & funny signs make it all bearable North Belfast MLA Brian Kingston — with 15 marathons under his belt — finished in 3:32 as he raised funds for the NI Air Ambulance “The crowds along the route were the largest I’ve seen for the Belfast Marathon,” he posted on X thanking the church and community choirs and bands who sang and played to the runners MLA Brian Kingston who took part in the race others joined in a team relay or participated in the eight-mile walk Many took part to support various charities or accomplish personal goals Among the participants was Alannah Campbell (22) who ran a leg of the marathon in aid of Action Cancer just the atmosphere with everyone — it was a lot easier having encouragement,” she said There were also a number of running groups such as The Supported Living Scheme for Adults with Learning Disabilities Patricia Haughian explained: “We are a group of walkers and runners who are raising money for people living with learning disabilities “The hardest part of the walk was half-way Many said the atmosphere from the crowds lining the roads spurred them on when the going got tough Those not running for a charity wanted to challenge themselves or run for a bit of fun who ran for himself and for “a bit of craic” said it was “enjoyable and good support throughout” Barry has already run 21 marathons in his lifetime The atmosphere there was fantastic and it’s the hardest marathon to get into who completed the run in three hours and two minutes Jake Huston (22) was also “running for a bit of craic” “I did a relay of 37 minutes and it was good fun,” he said “It was very busy and I passed a lot of people Méabh Lowe ran with work colleagues at Murphy O’Rawe Solicitors in Belfast in aid of the NI Hospice “We just thought it would be a great charity because there’s very few families in Northern Ireland who haven’t been affected in some way by cancer,” she said we were thinking about her today and supporting all those families affected by cancer.” a 34-year-old immigration advisor raised more than £10,000 for a Palestinian aid charity Canadian woman Portia Larlee — who lives in Belfast — was running in her first ever marathon to raise funds for the Medical Aid for Palestinians charity Ms Larlee said the support from the Belfast public had helped her reach the finish line in her maiden race “The last three kilometres were super tough but there was a lot of support along the way for Medical Aid for Palestinians,” she said “I think the people of Belfast really support the cause “I’ve just tried to do what I could and give people an opportunity to spread the word about this important charity “I think I will do more; it’s been a really There were lots of friends and family and people from my office supporting me along the route This year’s men’s champions were Tilahun Nigussie who broke the Belfast Marathon record with a time of 2:13:37 The Ethiopian was followed by Aaron Hanlon of Drogheda and District Athletic Club In third place was Stephen Connolly of Annadale Striders with a time of 2:29:30 first place went to Kenya’s Millicent Kibet with a time of 2:38:30 Lalla Aziza Alaoui Selsoui finished in a time of 2:38:51 Gladys Ganiel of North Belfast Harriers finished at 2:45:46 Jayne Bleakley came home in a time of 2:29:28 to win the wheelchair race in her debut marathon She was the first female wheelchair participant to take part in the events history Runners in action on the starting straight during the Moy Park Belfast City Marathon Tilahun Nigussie celebrates his Belfast City Marathon victory alongside Aaron Hanlon (second) and Stephen Connolly (third) Kenya's Millicent Kibet toasts her victory in the women's race alongside alla Aziza Alaoui Selsouli and Gladys Ganiel Lewis BennettSun 4 May 2025 at 12:56A new men’s record was set in a sunny 2025 Moy Park Belfast City Marathon on Sunday morning Tilahun Nigussie crossed the finishing line in a time of 2:13.37 beating the record set by his fellow Ethiopian Newego Ararisa Urga in 2012 by four seconds A late hiccup as he turned onto the finishing straight in Ormeau Park didn’t thwart Nigussie who consistently set the pace in the Marathon and was consistently glancing at his watch as his sights were set on creating a new potential course record And participating in the Marathon for the very first time that’s exactly what the 26-year-old did having streaked well ahead of all other competitors from the first mile onwards Aaron Hanlon from the Drogheda and District Athletics Club secured second place almost a full 14 minutes back on 2:27.06 while Ulster Championship winner Stephen Connolly led the Northern Ireland-based runners as the Annadale Striders man completed the podium on 2:29.30 to wrap up the concurrent Northern Ireland title Connolly’s Annadale team-mate Daniel Squires came home in sixth on 2:34.14 while John Jackson of Lagan Valley Athletics Club finished one place behind him on 2:35.30 and there were also top-10 finishes for RoadRunners AC’s Niall Ward (in ninth) and Paul Finnegan of Armagh Athletic Club (10th) Connolly told BBC Sport NI it was “something special” coming down the home stretch and paid tribute to coach Michael McKnight and Annadale running mate and “great guy” Eskander Turki – who clocked 2:22.22 in the 2024 Marathon to finish ninth – as major inspirations Millicent Kibet led the female finishers on 2:38.30 but the Kenyan fell short of the women’s record by around three minutes as she came in 21 seconds ahead of second-placed Lalla Aziza Alaoui Selsouli from Morocco The 29-year-old Kibet likewise set a strong pace from the start but tired towards the end in her pursuit of that ultimate accolade with her countrywoman and 2024 winner Beatrice Jepkemei having set the women’s record in that run North Belfast Harriers' Gladys Ganiel was the best of the Northern Ireland-based female finishers as he posted a time of 2:45.48 to complete the podium Northern Ireland legend Steven Davis hails Liverpool ace Conor Bradley Aghadowey woman Jayne Bleakley managed to take top spot in the wheelchair race with a time of 2:28.27 clinching victory in her first marathon at the age of 44 having been diagnosed with a condition known as encephalitis as a child who revealed she had her mileage splits written on her forearm during the Marathon told BBC Sport NI she was “chuffed” with her result The Belfast City Marathon saw record participation levels in 2025 with organisers revealing that 6,500 full marathon runners had signed up as well as 2,750 relay teams and 1,200 walkers Sunday trading hours in Belfast are to be extended for a pilot period The Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster has maintained its ‘never on a Sunday’ stance describing plans by Belfast City Council to extend Sunday shopping in a pilot scheme later this year as “another attack on the Christian and family values of the nation” Belfast City Council agreed plans for the scheme which will allow shops to open from 10am on Sundays during the six-week pilot period An amendment to the plans asking for the issue to go back to committee The plans were backed by Sinn Fein and Alliance larger shops in Belfast can only open from 1pm to 6pm while smaller stores have more flexibility The Convenor of the Government and Morals Committee of the Free Presbyterian Church Rev Gordon Dane said: “It is another attack on the Christian and family values of the nation “Not only would it be a breaking of the fourth commandment but if this was to go ahead it would be another instance of the undermining of the family in our society “God gave the Sabbath not only as a time of worship but as a time of rest and it has been one time in the week when families can be together “The undermining of family has been of immense harm in our society God has set the family as the bedrock of society and it is no coincidence that it is family that has been a prime target of those who wish to undermine the Christian ethos of society But this undermining of family has done untold harm on many levels.” Proponents of the scheme claim that extended Sunday shopping in Belfast would be a boost for visitors and tourists as the city centre is ‘dead’ on Sunday mornings But the church founded by former DUP leader and first minister Ian Paisley pointed out that Liam English of shopworkers’ union USDAW has said that if this proposal goes ahead shop workers The Church – which last year opposed local football matches being played on Sundays – said that when Sunday shopping was originally brought in there were assurances that they would not be open when Church morning services were on Now the proposal is for shops to be open from 10am most retail stores are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays due to the Ladenschlussgesetz Stores in Poland can only open on a few Sundays in the year most shops are generally closed on Sundays with exceptions for small food stores and those in tourist areas.” They concluded: “The Free Presbyterian Church is calling on the Councillors of Belfast City Council to oppose this detrimental move There is plenty of time to shop from Monday to Saturday Do not forsake the commandment of God that has been given for man’s benefit for a few more hours of shopping.”