Dundonald International Ice Bowl is celebrating 40 incredible years with a spectacular birthday party on Saturday 26th September, bringing families and friends together for an action-packed day of skating, bowling, soft play, entertainment and more!

Since opening its doors in 1986, Dundonald International Ice Bowl has become a much-loved destination for generations of families across Northern Ireland, Ireland and beyond, creating countless memories on the ice, in the bowling centre and at Indiana Land.

To mark this milestone birthday, the Ice Bowl is pulling out all the stops with a special 40th Birthday Party celebration taking place from 1pm – 7pm on Saturday 26th September.

Visitors can expect a fantastic programme of entertainment throughout the day, from 1pm to 7pm.  There will be mesmerising performances from Circusful (Belfast Community Circus School), with acts including a magician, clowns and a juggler. 

Children can get in the birthday party spirit with face painting and balloon modellers, while visitors can enjoy plenty of prize giveaways, Spin the Wheel competitions and entertainment from Downtown Radio’s Glen Pavis. 

Ice skating exhibitions at 1.15pm, 3.15pm and 5.15pm will feature some of the region’s top skating talent, including former Olympic skater and Ice Bowl coach Kevin van der Perren, Dancing on Ice star and Ice Bowl coach Maria Filippov, alongside other local performers.

On Friday 25th September, Indiana Land will host a Sensory Friendly Silent Disco from 5.45pm – 7.00pm. The event is aimed at individuals aged 14 years and under on the autism spectrum.  On arrival, each child will receive a set of wireless headsets and can choose from sing-along party favourites for a fun and inclusive experience.

The 40th birthday celebrations will not only mark four decades of Dundonald International Ice Bowl, but will celebrate the generations of families, friends, schools, clubs and communities who have made it part of their lives since 1986.

Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry commented: “Turning 40 is a fantastic milestone for Dundonald International Ice Bowl, and we wanted to celebrate by bringing the community together for a special birthday party.

“The centre has welcomed so many people over the past four decades, each with their own memories of visiting, from learning to ice skate and enjoying family days out,  to celebrating birthdays or simply spending time with friends.

“Our 40th birthday celebration is our way of saying thank you and inviting everyone to come along, celebrate with us and make some new memories before we move into our new building in 2027 and welcome a new chapter in the Ice Bowl’s history.

“With an action-packed programme of events planned on 26th September, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”

The 40th birthday celebrations are expected to be a highlight of Dundonald International Ice Bowl’s anniversary year, celebrating its place as one of Northern Ireland’s best-known family leisure attractions.

For more information or to book, click here.

Pictured, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry with ice skater Madison Moore and performer from Circusful ahead of Dundonald International Ice Bowl’s 40th birthday celebrations which will take place on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th September.

On Friday 11 September at 3.30pm, the crew will take on the challenge of climbing 343 floors while wearing full fire kit and breathing apparatus, honouring the 343 brave FDNY firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty on 11 September 2001.

The challenge will raise funds for the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Higginson’s Mayoral Charity, Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

Come along to Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, bring your friends and family, and cheer on the crew as they take part in this remarkable challenge alongside firefighters across the world.

Event details:

•  Friday 11 September 2026
•  3.30pm – 5.00pm
•  Lagan Valley LeisurePlex

To support the fundraiser, please donate here

Eight walking football teams came together in the sunshine at Lough Moss Leisure Centre on Friday 28 August for the second annual ‘Saunter Shield’ tournament. This year’s event welcomed some new additions, making it bigger and better than before.

The event was organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in partnership with Community Sports Network and their Danderball Walking Football Programme and the NI Walking Football Federation. The aim of the tournament was to showcase the continued growth of walking football, encouraging people to stay active while enjoying the social and competitive side of the sport.

Hosts Carryduff Swifts were joined by walking football teams Ballymena, Bangor, Avoniel/Shankill, CALA (representing Carrickfergus and Larne), Hillsborough, Scrabo Strollers and Crusaders.

After a day of great matches, Scrabo Strollers were crowned champions for the second year in a row, securing a 1-0 victory over Hillsborough in the final.

Alongside the Saunter Shield, a ‘Player of the Tournament’ Trophy was also presented. The winner was chosen by referees from Northern Ireland Walking Football Federation (NIWFF), who recognised strong performances from various players throughout the day, however Ronnie Carleton from Ballymena was selected as the deserving winner.

Speaking at the event, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, said: “It was fantastic to see the Saunter Shield return for its second year and even better, to see more teams getting involved. The growth of walking football is a great example of how sport can bring local communities together, encouraging people to stay active while also providing opportunities to socialise and make new connections.

I’m delighted that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, in partnership with Community Sports Network and the NIWFF, has been able to organise another successful tournament.

Congratulations to Scrabo Strollers and to all the teams who participated. I hope the Saunter Shield continues to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.”

David Lemon, secretary of the Northern Ireland Walking Football Federation (NIWFF) added: “A big thank you to Lisburn & Castlereagh Council and the staff at Lough Moss Leisure Centre for hosting a fantastic tournament. The venue had everything needed, the weather was fine and it was great to see so many older people being active and having fun. Walking football continues to grow in popularity and in the past year three new clubs have affiliated to NIWFF, and we are keen to add some more over the next year."

Pictured: Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry with ‘Saunter Shield’ champions Scrabo Strollers, who have claimed the title for the second year running.

Anyone with information on walking football sessions taking place in their area can contact David at squeezy.lemon@btinternet.com and NIWFF will be happy to support the development of new clubs.

For anyone wishing to get involved with Carryduff Swifts, they meet and play every Friday morning from 11am to 12 noon on the 4G pitch at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. For more information contact Eamon Quinn on 07485163690.

The investment has helped clubs purchase specialised sports equipment, qualify coaches and train volunteers, host sporting events, develop new sporting programmes and create more opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in sport.

The latest funding reinforces the council's ongoing commitment to supporting grassroots sport and ensuring local clubs have the resources they need to grow, develop and thrive.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "Our sports clubs are the heartbeat of our local communities across Lisburn & Castlereagh. This investment of £104,810 will help clubs continue to grow and provide valuable opportunities for people of all ages to develop skills in their chosen sport.

Dundonald Football Club is just one of many clubs who has benefited from this funding, by using its grant to purchase sports analysis performance vests, match balls and training balls. This specialised equipment has already helped enhance player development and make a positive impact within the Castlereagh East community.

The council is delighted to support the many dedicated volunteers and coaches whose commitment makes sport possible. Their efforts play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of their club members and fostering strong, connected communities.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have as projects continue to be delivered across Lisburn & Castlereagh and hearing about the benefits it brings to local sports clubs.”

For further information on sports development programmes, click here.

Pictured - Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Michael Preston, President of Dundonald Football Club and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Community Sports Development Officer, Christine Cooke. 

The investment has helped clubs purchase specialised sports equipment, qualify coaches and train volunteers, host sporting events, develop new sporting programmes and create more opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in sport.

The latest funding reinforces the council's ongoing commitment to supporting grassroots sport and ensuring local clubs have the resources they need to grow, develop and thrive.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "Our sports clubs are the heartbeat of our local communities across Lisburn & Castlereagh. This investment of £104,810 will help clubs continue to grow and provide valuable opportunities for people of all ages to develop skills in their chosen sport.

Dundonald Football Club is just one of many clubs who has benefited from this funding, by using its grant to purchase sports analysis performance vests, match balls and training balls. This specialised equipment has already helped enhance player development and make a positive impact within the Castlereagh East community.

The council is delighted to support the many dedicated volunteers and coaches whose commitment makes sport possible. Their efforts play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of their club members and fostering strong, connected communities.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have as projects continue to be delivered across Lisburn & Castlereagh and hearing about the benefits it brings to local sports clubs.”

For further information on sports development programmes, click here.

Pictured - Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Michael Preston, President of Dundonald Football Club and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Community Sports Development Officer, Christine Cooke. 

The aim of the awards is to celebrate the outstanding sporting achievements of individuals and teams from across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a special ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 20 November. The event will highlight the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator.

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2026 Sports Awards, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is your chance to nominate an individual or club making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have many athletes who have achieved amazing results in their sport, so it is important to take the time to celebrate their success.

The evening will be a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on a diverse range of sports and hear about the achievements of many rising stars and experienced athletes over the past 12 months. I know their stories will inspire many others to focus on their personal goals to reach their potential in their sport.

I am particularly looking forward to meeting our special guest Sam Madden, who is Irish Freestyle Football Champion and seeing firsthand his amazing talent. Sam’s experience performing at major sporting tournaments and his coaching skills with young people will no doubt add to the evening’s accolades.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Drayne's Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards is Wednesday 30th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to visit the council website and apply online today!”, concluded Councillor Lowry

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I know the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week to excel in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Drayne's Farm for once again sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Owen Drayne, Managing Director, Drayne's Farm concluded, “Drayne's Farm is delighted to continue its sponsorship of these awards and support the recognition of sporting excellence across Lisburn & Castlereagh. The awards highlight not only athletic achievement but also the dedication, community spirit and teamwork that are at the heart of local sport.

We are proud to be associated with an event that celebrates the success of athletes, coaches, volunteers and clubs who inspire others through their commitment and achievements. We look forward to joining in the celebrations and congratulating this year's nominees and winners."

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

The closing date for applications is strictly Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 12 midnight.

Pictured L - R : John Drayne, Production Director at Drayne's Farm, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee and Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, launching the 2026 Sports Awards at La Mon Hotel & Country Club. 

The aim of the awards is to celebrate the outstanding sporting achievements of individuals and teams from across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a special ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 20 November. The event will highlight the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator.

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2026 Sports Awards, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is your chance to nominate an individual or club making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have many athletes who have achieved amazing results in their sport, so it is important to take the time to celebrate their success.

The evening will be a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on a diverse range of sports and hear about the achievements of many rising stars and experienced athletes over the past 12 months. I know their stories will inspire many others to focus on their personal goals to reach their potential in their sport.

I am particularly looking forward to meeting our special guest Sam Madden, who is Irish Freestyle Football Champion and seeing firsthand his amazing talent. Sam’s experience performing at major sporting tournaments and his coaching skills with young people will no doubt add to the evening’s accolades.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Drayne's Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards is Wednesday 30th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to visit the council website and apply online today!”, concluded Councillor Lowry

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I know the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week to excel in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Drayne's Farm for once again sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Owen Drayne, Managing Director, Drayne's Farm concluded, “Drayne's Farm is delighted to continue its sponsorship of these awards and support the recognition of sporting excellence across Lisburn & Castlereagh. The awards highlight not only athletic achievement but also the dedication, community spirit and teamwork that are at the heart of local sport.

We are proud to be associated with an event that celebrates the success of athletes, coaches, volunteers and clubs who inspire others through their commitment and achievements. We look forward to joining in the celebrations and congratulating this year's nominees and winners."

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

The closing date for applications is strictly Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 12 midnight.

Pictured L - R : John Drayne, Production Director at Drayne's Farm, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee and Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, launching the 2026 Sports Awards at La Mon Hotel & Country Club. 

May’s winner is archer Helen McCormick. Helen excelled in the Muckamore Company of Archers Summer Series WA720 and Mixed Team Head-to-Head competition. The Northern Ireland-level event attracted archers from clubs across the province and offered a high standard of regional competition under World Archery rules. Helen won gold in both the WA720 and Mixed Team Head-to-Head events. She is also ranked second overall in the Summer Series standings reflecting her sustained excellence throughout the series. Helen's achievements highlight her dedication, commitment to training, and ability to perform under pressure. Her success is a testament to her commitment to the sport and has brought great credit to both her club, Lisburn City Archery.

June’s winner is powerlifter Simon Luke. Simon proudly represented Team Ireland at the WPC/AWPC European Championships in Powerlifting and Single-Lift Bench Press and Deadlift, held in Limerick. In the lead-up to the competition, Simon showed exceptional discipline, commitment and resilience through a demanding training programme. His hard work paid off with an outstanding international performance. Simon achieved a 195kg squat, a 135kg bench press and a 250kg deadlift. His bench press and deadlift both set new Irish National Records for his age and weight category. These achievements saw Simon crowned M2 110kg European Champion and awarded a well-deserved gold medal. Simon’s hard work, consistency and elite-level are a testament to his dedication to the sport and his commitment to achieving excellence

Entries for July & Augusts Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Tuesday 1st September at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here. 

Pictured - May's Sports Personality of the Month winner, archer, Helen McCormick.

Pictured - June's Sports Personality of the Month winner,powerlifter, Simon Luke.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has once again supported local families throughout the summer holidays with the successful return of its popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme.

Organised by the council’s Sports Services Unit, the annual programme provided almost 2,000 places at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Glenmore Activity Centre.

Children aged 5 to 12 years enjoyed a jam-packed summer activity scheme delivered by a team of qualified staff. Activities included the Leisure Pool, ice skating, team sports, bouncy castles, and arts and crafts. Many of the schemes also included off-site trips, providing hours of endless fun and excellent value for families.

In addition, ‘Summer in the City’ offered an extensive choice of Summer Sports Camps to encourage children to try a new sport and get everyone moving throughout the school holidays.

Young golfers enjoyed sell-out Junior Golf Camps at both Castlereagh Hills Golf Course and Aberdelghy Golf Course while skating fans sharpened their skills during ice skating lessons at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

There was also a wide choice of multi-sports camps available across the council area, including Ballybeen Sports Hub, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

An impressive timetable of swim camps also took place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, with week-long courses to help adults, children and babies build their confidence and skills in the water.

The popular Disability Hub at Lough Moss Leisure Centre offered inclusive cycling sessions for families throughout August for young people aged 7 to 17 years.  The centre has also scheduled its very first inclusive play day which takes place on Saturday 22 August. 

Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, visited a number of the schemes and said: “The 2026 ‘Summer in the City’ programme reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local families and creating opportunities for people of all ages to come together and enjoy everything our council area has to offer.

I was delighted to visit some of our summer activity schemes and see first-hand the excitement and energy they bring. The enthusiasm of the children, alongside the fantastic work of our staff and partners, highlighted the positive impact these programmes have within our communities.

We know the summer holidays can be an expensive time for many households, which is why we are proud to deliver a programme that offers exceptional value, with a wide range of affordable and accessible activities taking place across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

From sports camps and swim camps to inclusive activities, there truly is something for everyone.

I hope all the children have thoroughly enjoyed their summer activities, and I look forward to welcoming families back to our centres, whether for future activity schemes or leisure visits throughout the year.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has once again supported local families throughout the summer holidays with the successful return of its popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme.

Organised by the council’s Sports Services Unit, the annual programme provided almost 2,000 places at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Glenmore Activity Centre.

Children aged 5 to 12 years enjoyed a jam-packed summer activity scheme delivered by a team of qualified staff. Activities included the Leisure Pool, ice skating, team sports, bouncy castles, and arts and crafts. Many of the schemes also included off-site trips, providing hours of endless fun and excellent value for families.

In addition, ‘Summer in the City’ offered an extensive choice of Summer Sports Camps to encourage children to try a new sport and get everyone moving throughout the school holidays.

Young golfers enjoyed sell-out Junior Golf Camps at both Castlereagh Hills Golf Course and Aberdelghy Golf Course while skating fans sharpened their skills during ice skating lessons at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

There was also a wide choice of multi-sports camps available across the council area, including Ballybeen Sports Hub, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

An impressive timetable of swim camps also took place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, with week-long courses to help adults, children and babies build their confidence and skills in the water.

The popular Disability Hub at Lough Moss Leisure Centre offered inclusive cycling sessions for families throughout August for young people aged 7 to 17 years.  The centre has also scheduled its very first inclusive play day which takes place on Saturday 22 August. 

Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, visited a number of the schemes and said: “The 2026 ‘Summer in the City’ programme reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local families and creating opportunities for people of all ages to come together and enjoy everything our council area has to offer.

I was delighted to visit some of our summer activity schemes and see first-hand the excitement and energy they bring. The enthusiasm of the children, alongside the fantastic work of our staff and partners, highlighted the positive impact these programmes have within our communities.

We know the summer holidays can be an expensive time for many households, which is why we are proud to deliver a programme that offers exceptional value, with a wide range of affordable and accessible activities taking place across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

From sports camps and swim camps to inclusive activities, there truly is something for everyone.

I hope all the children have thoroughly enjoyed their summer activities, and I look forward to welcoming families back to our centres, whether for future activity schemes or leisure visits throughout the year.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has once again supported local families throughout the summer holidays with the successful return of its popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme.

Organised by the council’s Sports Services Unit, the annual programme provided almost 2,000 places at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Glenmore Activity Centre.

Children aged 5 to 12 years enjoyed a jam-packed summer activity scheme delivered by a team of qualified staff. Activities included the Leisure Pool, ice skating, team sports, bouncy castles, and arts and crafts. Many of the schemes also included off-site trips, providing hours of endless fun and excellent value for families.

In addition, ‘Summer in the City’ offered an extensive choice of Summer Sports Camps to encourage children to try a new sport and get everyone moving throughout the school holidays.

Young golfers enjoyed sell-out Junior Golf Camps at both Castlereagh Hills Golf Course and Aberdelghy Golf Course while skating fans sharpened their skills during ice skating lessons at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

There was also a wide choice of multi-sports camps available across the council area, including Ballybeen Sports Hub, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

An impressive timetable of swim camps also took place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, with week-long courses to help adults, children and babies build their confidence and skills in the water.

The popular Disability Hub at Lough Moss Leisure Centre offered inclusive cycling sessions for families throughout August for young people aged 7 to 17 years.  The centre has also scheduled its very first inclusive play day which takes place on Saturday 22 August. 

Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, visited a number of the schemes and said: “The 2026 ‘Summer in the City’ programme reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local families and creating opportunities for people of all ages to come together and enjoy everything our council area has to offer.

I was delighted to visit some of our summer activity schemes and see first-hand the excitement and energy they bring. The enthusiasm of the children, alongside the fantastic work of our staff and partners, highlighted the positive impact these programmes have within our communities.

We know the summer holidays can be an expensive time for many households, which is why we are proud to deliver a programme that offers exceptional value, with a wide range of affordable and accessible activities taking place across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

From sports camps and swim camps to inclusive activities, there truly is something for everyone.

I hope all the children have thoroughly enjoyed their summer activities, and I look forward to welcoming families back to our centres, whether for future activity schemes or leisure visits throughout the year.”

Over forty young people have taken to the ice for an energy packed ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The camp is part of the highly successful HEROS cross-community programme that uses ice hockey to inspire and motivate participants. 

Now in its 19th year, the programme brings together young people from Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood, Swords & Finglas in Dublin. During the week, the group received international coaching from Canadian hockey players then had the opportunity to test their skills in a big game on the final evening.

The HEROS programme was developed by the youth partners; Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, along with the international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada.

This highly successful model was first established in Canada and has helped develop life skills and empower over 20,000 young people since it started in 2000. This success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the HEROS programme.

Dropping the puck at the final game, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “We are delighted to welcome back the HEROS programme to Dundonald International Ice Bowl for another successful year. This initiative continues to make a real difference in the lives of young people, providing opportunities to build confidence and learn new skills that extend beyond the ice rink.

It was fantastic to see so many girls taking part in the big game tonight, which shows how the programme can break down barriers which are often associated with playing ice hockey. Many of the participants have only started skating for the first time while others are returning to the programme in a leadership capacity.

HEROS shows how sport can bring people together and create positive experiences for young people from different backgrounds through greater understanding and teamwork. I would like to thank the youth partners, volunteers and Canadian coaches whose dedication helps make this inspiring programme possible."

On behalf of the youth partners, Natalie Trainor added, “The programme works towards giving young people a unique opportunity to learn and develop life skills in ice hockey while developing aspirations for themselves and building relationships between young people from different backgrounds. 

We are delighted to celebrate the talent, friendships and skills developed as a result of the programme.  We hope that every young person gains from the experience and takes away positive messages from this unique project.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is set to host its first BIG Inclusive Playday, offering a fun-filled day of activities for children and young people with additional needs. The free event will take place on Saturday 22 August, from 10am to 2pm, at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Designed to encourage wellbeing and inclusion, the event will give participants the opportunity to try new activities and enjoy a welcoming and supportive day out. Families are invited to come along and accompany their family member with additional needs.

The day will kick off with a fun dance session with Fitness Freddie and there will be a packed choice of inclusive sports and games throughout the day. Participants can take time out to relax and explore a sensory play bus with bubble lighting, musical instruments, ball pools and a range of interactive sensory experiences. Those with energy can showcase their best dance moves in a silent disco where each child can select their favourite sing-along hits through a set of wireless headphones, which will be provided.

The excitement will continue with a sensory walk along the trim trail, giving participants the chance to enjoy the fresh air while engaging with sensory activities along the way. Throughout the morning, there will be lots of opportunities to keep everyone entertained with face painting, balloon modelling and a special visit from Princess and Superhero characters. There will also be a special appearance from the council’s new mascot, Wallace the Lion who is sure to be a roaring hit with the crowd!

Those with green fingers can get hands-on in a fun planting and potting session at Lough Moss Community Garden, which is a great opportunity to learn a new interest and take something home. When it's time to recharge between activities, everyone can treat themselves to well-deserved break with ice cream and food vans.

Participants will have the chance to meet local sports clubs and organisations that are championing inclusive involvement across the council area. These groups will be showcasing a range of activities available throughout the year and providing information on how people can get involved.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "We are delighted to launch our first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. This event is about bringing children, young people and adults together in a relaxed and supportive space where everyone can enjoy themselves at their own pace.

We want every participant to feel welcomed and able to take part in all activities, whether they are trying something new or simply spending a day with family and friends. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate inclusion, promote wellbeing and show that sport and community activities can be accessible for all."

The BIG Inclusive Play Day is a drop-in event, giving families and organisations the flexibility to come and go throughout the day while enjoying the wide range of activities on offer.

For further information, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Photo Caption: Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing is joined by local children and Wallace the Lion to launch the first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is set to host its first BIG Inclusive Playday, offering a fun-filled day of activities for children and young people with additional needs. The free event will take place on Saturday 22 August, from 10am to 2pm, at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Designed to encourage wellbeing and inclusion, the event will give participants the opportunity to try new activities and enjoy a welcoming and supportive day out. Families are invited to come along and accompany their family member with additional needs.

The day will kick off with a fun dance session with Fitness Freddie and there will be a packed choice of inclusive sports and games throughout the day. Participants can take time out to relax and explore a sensory play bus with bubble lighting, musical instruments, ball pools and a range of interactive sensory experiences. Those with energy can showcase their best dance moves in a silent disco where each child can select their favourite sing-along hits through a set of wireless headphones, which will be provided.

The excitement will continue with a sensory walk along the trim trail, giving participants the chance to enjoy the fresh air while engaging with sensory activities along the way. Throughout the morning, there will be lots of opportunities to keep everyone entertained with face painting, balloon modelling and a special visit from Princess and Superhero characters. There will also be a special appearance from the council’s new mascot, Wallace the Lion who is sure to be a roaring hit with the crowd!

Those with green fingers can get hands-on in a fun planting and potting session at Lough Moss Community Garden, which is a great opportunity to learn a new interest and take something home. When it's time to recharge between activities, everyone can treat themselves to well-deserved break with ice cream and food vans.

Participants will have the chance to meet local sports clubs and organisations that are championing inclusive involvement across the council area. These groups will be showcasing a range of activities available throughout the year and providing information on how people can get involved.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "We are delighted to launch our first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. This event is about bringing children, young people and adults together in a relaxed and supportive space where everyone can enjoy themselves at their own pace.

We want every participant to feel welcomed and able to take part in all activities, whether they are trying something new or simply spending a day with family and friends. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate inclusion, promote wellbeing and show that sport and community activities can be accessible for all."

The BIG Inclusive Play Day is a drop-in event, giving families and organisations the flexibility to come and go throughout the day while enjoying the wide range of activities on offer.

For further information, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Photo Caption: Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing is joined by local children and Wallace the Lion to launch the first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Dundonald Touring Caravan Park has once again been recognised for its outstanding quality and visitor experience, having been re-awarded the AA Quality Standards rating of 4 Gold Stars.

Located just five miles from Belfast City Centre and only minutes from Dundonald International Ice Bowl, the popular site offers 22 caravan and motorhome pitches, as well as six tent pitches. The park operates as a fully serviced site from mid-March to the end of October, and as an Aire de Service facility from November to mid-March.

During the recent inspection, the AA inspector praised the ease of travel to and from the Caravan Park, highlighting its location on a main bus route to Belfast. The site offers visitors the best of both worlds, the vibrancy of a city break alongside the calm and tranquillity of a leafy suburban setting.

The park is also within walking distance of Dundonald International Ice Bowl, making it an ideal base for families and visitors of all ages. Nearby attractions include ice skating, tenpin bowling, Indiana Land soft play, Pirates Adventure Golf, Clip ‘n Climb and Escapade Escape Rooms.

Commenting on the achievement, the Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, said: “This is, once again, an excellent achievement for Dundonald Touring Caravan Park, which continues to go from strength to strength.

Considerable upgrades have taken place in the last year, including improvements to the shower block and kitchen area. The inspector’s report commended the level of housekeeping and cleanliness, both indoors and outdoors.

The AA Quality Standards rating of 4 Gold Stars not only recognise the quality of the facilities, but also the welcoming experience provided to visitors who choose Dundonald as a base to explore the wonderful array of sites and activities available throughout Lisburn and Castlereagh and further afield.

This prestigious award reflects the hard work, high standards and commitment that go into maintaining and operating the site. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all members of staff involved.”

Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, pictured alongside Derek and Jane Mills, campers staying at Dundonald Touring Caravan Park. 

Vitality members and customers can enjoy two weeks of themed classes starting Monday 27th July 2026.

Enjoy upbeat summer tunes, high-energy classes, exciting prize giveaways and plenty of feel-good fun with our Summer Vibes timetable, which will run from Monday 27th July to Sunday 2nd August 2026.  Join in the fun and dress up alongside our instructors. Think Hawaiian shirts, bucket hats, colourful outfits and tropical accessories, for a workout with a holiday feel.

Turn up the heat the following week and enjoy a Latin Beats themed timetable from Monday 3rd August to Sunday 9th August 2026. 

Expect Latin-inspired music, fiery rhythms, and dance-driven workouts that will lift your mood and bring the spirit of Latin dance straight into the studio.

So get your maracas at the ready, dust off your sombrero, bring your brightest summer style and join us for a week full of rhythm, colour, prize giveaways and good vibes.

Check out the timetables below and get yourself booked in today!

Adrenaline levels soared as 6,000 runners descended to the start line for 2026 MB Chicken Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The popular event returned to the streets of Lisburn for the 43rd year on Wednesday 17 June.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the sellout event saw the largest number of competitive runners, families and schools take on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

The ‘flat and fast’ course continued to provide a traffic free zone through the Eikon Centre and LMK site to help runners clock up a personal best time. There were also lots of prize giveaways along with entertainment from Cool Fm’s Pete Snodden to keep everyone’s spirits lifted.

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with Caitlyn Harvey taking top honours in the Women’s Half Marathon while Nicola Black took a well-deserved second spot and Gillian McCrory third. In the Men’s Half Marathon, Patrick McColl made it on to the podium in first place with Adam Smyth taking second place and Ronan O’Hara finishing a strong third.

In the Half Marathon Wheelchair race, Jayne Blakley finished in first place and Vincent & Meabh Bradley won the 10K Wheelchair event.

Kerry O’Flaherty crossed the finish line in first place in the Women’s 10K, followed by Harriet Buswell in second and Caroline MacNabb in third place. In the Men's 10K, Robbie Hagen clocked up a first place, closely followed by Noel McNally in second place and Eoin McCann in third.

In the Fun Run, first place was won Matthew Saberian, followed by Daniel Doherty in second place and Eloise McAuley in third.

Starting the Half Marathon event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Brian Higginson said, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for over four decades. This year we were delighted to record one of our largest entries which shows the popularity of the event with runners, families and schools.

We are proud that the event has now grown to become one of Northern Ireland’s largest running events. Many participants come back year on year, while there are some who have run tonight for the very first time.

“I was honoured to meet so many people as they crossed the finish line. You should be very proud of your achievement and hopefully it will be the start of many more runs to come!”

The Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry added “Congratulations to everyone who crossed the finish line tonight. It was inspiring to see first-hand the amazing determination and community spirit shown by every participant that makes the Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run so special.

We had people of all ages and levels of fitness taking part, which shows the important role the event plays in promoting health and wellbeing across the council area. I hope this experience encourages even more people to take up running, whether recreationally or as part of a club.

I would like to thank MB Chicken Lisburn for generously sponsoring the event and look forward to seeing you all next year.”

Rana Abhol from MB Chicken in Lisburn said, “Sponsoring the Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run is a fantastic way to give back to the local community. We were delighted to be involved again with an event which brings people of all ages together and promotes healthier, more active lifestyles.”

To view photographs from the event, please visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com or check out the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, Beactivestayactivelisburncastlereagh. 

Pictured - The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Higginson and Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry at the start line for the MB Chicken Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run.

Pictured - Lisburn Half Marathon runners crossing the start line.

Pictured - Fun runners at the start line. 

Pictured - Runners with the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Higginson and Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry.

Excitement filled Lagan Valley LeisurePlex as more than 400 local school children took part in the annual Lisburn & Castlereagh Primary Schools Swimming Gala on 5th June 2026.

Bringing together P4–P7 pupils, the event offered a day of friendly competition at one of Northern Ireland’s largest swimming galas.

Representing 21 schools, the young swimmers were cheered on as they dived into the pool to compete in backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, freestyle and relay races.

During the event, the P4–P5 Special Achievement Award was presented to Jemima Crawford of Wallace Prep, while the P6–P7 award was presented to Callum Corbett of Ballymacash Primary School.

Friends’ Prep won the P4–P5 freestyle relay, with Downshire Primary School taking a well-earned second place and St Joseph’s Primary School finishing third. In the afternoon session, Friends’ Prep also claimed first place in the P6 freestyle relay, followed by St Joseph’s Primary School in second and St Aloysius Primary School in third.

St Aloysius Primary School secured first place in the P6–P7 medley, followed by Friends’ Prep in second place and St Joseph’s Primary School securing third.

In the P7 freestyle relay, Riverdale Primary School took first place, with St Joseph’s Primary School finishing second and Friends’ Prep in third place.

Downshire Primary School secured first place in the overall schools event, taking home the prestigious champion’s title. Friends’ Prep finished in second place, with Riverdale Primary School claiming third.

Presenting the afternoon session medals, the Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, said, “The Primary Schools’ Swimming Gala is always such a great highlight of the school year. It’s a fantastic display of teamwork and determination, and it was brilliant to see so many children giving it their all in the pool while being cheered on by their classmates. Events like this really help build confidence and encourage a lifelong love of sport. Every participant should feel a real sense of achievement, especially those taking part for the very first time.  Your families and teachers are very proud of your effort and enthusiasm, and it has been wonderful to see the support and encouragement shown throughout the gala.”

Presenting the morning session medals, the Director of Leisure & Community Wellbeing at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Louise Moore commented, “Swimming is an essential life skill that plays a vital role in supporting children’s health, fitness and overall wellbeing. It helps to develop strength, stamina and coordination, while also building confidence and water safety skills from an early age.

Many of the 21 schools represented at this year’s gala already participate in our School Swim Programme, making this event the ideal opportunity for pupils to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment that is both familiar and encouraging.

We are incredibly proud of all the young swimmers who took part and demonstrated such talent, perseverance and sportsmanship throughout the day.

I would like to thank the schools for their continued support and the staff at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for their hard work in delivering another successful and enjoyable event.”

Pictured above: Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry presenting the P6 Freestyle Relay. In first place, Friends' Prep, in second place, St Joseph's Primary School and in third place, St Aloysius Primary School. 

Pictured above: Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry presenting the P6/P7 Medley Relay winners. In first place, St Aloysius Primary School, in second place Friends' Prep and in third place, St Joseph's Primary School Lisburn.

Pictured above: Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry presenting the P7 Freestyle relay.  In first place, Riverdale Primary School, in second place St Joseph's Primary School, and in third place in Friends' Prep. 

Pictured above, Louise Moore, Director of Leisure & Community Wellbeing presents the P4/P5 Freestyle Relay. In first place, Friends' Prep, in second place Downshire Primary School and in third place St Joseph's Primary School. 

Pictured above, Louise Moore, Director of Leisure & Community Wellbeing presents the P4–P5 Fiona Bates Memorial Special Achievement Award to Jemima Crawford of Wallace Prep. 

Pictured above: Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry presenting the P6–P7  Fiona Bates Memorial Special Achievement Award was presented to Callum Corbett of Ballymacash Primary School.

Pictured above, Overall Winners: 1ST Downshire Primary School with 234 points, 2nd Friends' Prep with 223 points and 3rd Riverdale Primary School with 153 points. 

Footballer Cecil Floyd was March’s winner. On 28th March, Cecil captained the Transplant Sport NI Football Team at the Tri-Nations Football Tournament in Dublin. The event was hosted by Transplant Team Ireland and featured Scotland Transplant Active Football Team. The matches were played in sunny but breezy conditions. Under Cecil’s leadership, Transplant Sport NI defeated Transplant Team Ireland 2-0. They then narrowly lost 2-1 to Scotland Transplant Active Football Team in a closely contested match.

April’s winner was bowler Raymond Stubbs. Raymond recently celebrated a major milestone after receiving his 100th cap at the British Isles Championship. Although achieved in November 2025, the presentation took place in March this year. Adding to his success, Raymond was also crowned outright winner of the I.I.B.A. National Triples Competition for the fifth time in April 2026. These two incredible achievements, within such a short period of time, mark a moment in history. No other short mat bowler from Lisburn has achieved this level of success, with colleagues and competitors from Lisburn Zone Bowling Club and the Lisburn Bowling League all extremely proud of his achievements.

Entries for May and Junes Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Monday 6th July at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured - March's Sports Personality of the Month winner, footballer, Cecil Floyd.

Pictured - April's Sports Personality of the Month winner, bowler, Raymond Stubbs.

Over 60 enthusiastic pupils from four special education schools across the Lisburn & Castlereagh area came together for Mayor Amanda’s Special Schools Sports Day at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Pupils from Tor Bank, Brookfield, Longstone and Parkview took part in the exciting day, which was organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and supported by placement volunteers from the Live Life Well-Being Centre.

The event got off to a lively start with an energetic warm-up led by Fitness Freddy, helping everyone stretch, move and get ready for the fun ahead. Pupils then enjoyed a Group Dance-a-Thon before finishing the day with a cool down session.

There was plenty of excitement throughout the event as pupils gave their all in a variety of activities including boccia, standing broad jump, chest push, speed bounce, sprint obstacle races and relay races.

Carers and teachers cheered proudly from the sidelines, creating a fantastic atmosphere of encouragement and support.

Presenting medals to the pupils, Mayor Amanda said, “It was wonderful to see so many young people taking part, having fun and supporting one another throughout the day. Events like this are so important in promoting inclusion, confidence and enjoyment through sport.

My mayoral theme is ‘Inclusivity for Disabilities – A City That Sees Everyone’ and this event truly reflected that message. I hope everyone had a fantastic day and made lots of happy memories.”

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Fitness Freddie with pupils from Parkview Special School.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Fitness Freddie with pupils from Brookfield Special School.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Fitness Freddie with pupils from Longstone Special School.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Fitness Freddie with pupils and staff from Tor Bank Special School.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda with placement volunteers from the Live Life Well-Being Centre.

Families across Lisburn & Castlereagh can look forward to another exciting summer as the popular Summer in the City programme returns with a wide range of activities, schemes and sports camps for children.

Designed for children aged 5–12 years, this year’s programme offers a fun-filled summer of sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Taking place at leisure and community centres across the council area, the summer schemes are the perfect opportunity for children to get active, make new friends and try something different this summer.

Children can also take part in a range of sports camps and courses, including golf, ice skating, swimming and multi-sports. Led by experienced coaches, the camps are designed to build confidence and develop new skills whilst staying active.

In addition to the summer schemes and sports camps, the programme includes a Disability Kids Club and access to the Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre, ensuring children of all abilities have opportunities to get involved.

Launching this year’s programme, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Summer in the City continues to be one of the highlights of the summer calendar for many local families. The programme gives children the chance to stay active, make new friends and enjoy a wide variety of activities in a safe and fun environment.

Programmes like this play an important role in supporting children’s physical and mental wellbeing during the school holidays. We look forward to welcoming children from across the council area for another fantastic summer.”

Bookings for the Summer in the City programme will open on a staggered basis from 1st–3rd June. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here. 

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee launches the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Summer in the City programme alongside local children. 

Families across Lisburn & Castlereagh can look forward to another exciting summer as the popular Summer in the City programme returns with a wide range of activities, schemes and sports camps for children.

Designed for children aged 5–12 years, this year’s programme offers a fun-filled summer of sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Taking place at leisure and community centres across the council area, the summer schemes are the perfect opportunity for children to get active, make new friends and try something different this summer.

Children can also take part in a range of sports camps and courses, including golf, ice skating, swimming and multi-sports. Led by experienced coaches, the camps are designed to build confidence and develop new skills whilst staying active.

In addition to the summer schemes and sports camps, the programme includes a Disability Kids Club and access to the Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre, ensuring children of all abilities have opportunities to get involved.

Launching this year’s programme, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Summer in the City continues to be one of the highlights of the summer calendar for many local families. The programme gives children the chance to stay active, make new friends and enjoy a wide variety of activities in a safe and fun environment.

Programmes like this play an important role in supporting children’s physical and mental wellbeing during the school holidays. We look forward to welcoming children from across the council area for another fantastic summer.”

Bookings for the Summer in the City programme will open on a staggered basis from 1st–3rd June. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here. 

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee launches the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Summer in the City programme alongside local children. 

Residents across Lisburn & Castlereagh are being encouraged to get active, meet new people and explore their local area through the ‘Walking for All’ programme, as May marks National Walking Month.

A project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and led by Outscape, Walking for All aims to create healthier and more connected rural communities through accessible, organised walking opportunities.

Local Walking for All Officer, Carla Adams, is currently recruiting Walk Leaders to help grow the programme across Lisburn & Castlereagh and encourage more people to enjoy walking within their communities.

The FREE Walk Leader Information Sessions are designed to provide attendees with the information, confidence and support needed to become a Walk Leader and make a positive impact in their local area.

Walking offers many benefits for both leaders and participants alike. From improving physical and mental wellbeing to reducing loneliness and social isolation, the programme aims to bring people together through simple and enjoyable activity.

The interactive sessions, led by Carla Adams, will also include hot drinks and light refreshments. A short optional walk will take place at each session, so attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear.

Upcoming sessions include:

• Wednesday 27th May, 6pm at Host Community Coffee, Moneyreagh
• Thursday 28th May, 6pm at Lough Moss Leisure Centre
• Saturday 30th May, 11am St Clare’s Hall, Glenavy

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Walking for All is a fantastic initiative that will bring real benefits to communities across Lisburn & Castlereagh. Not only does walking improve physical and mental wellbeing but it also helps people connect, reduce social isolation and build stronger communities.

We would encourage anyone with an interest in health, wellbeing and community engagement to consider becoming a Walk Leader. It’s a rewarding opportunity to support others, meet new people and help make walking more accessible for everyone.”

People interested in joining a walk or becoming a Walk Leader are encouraged to contact Carla Adams to find out more about upcoming training opportunities.

For more information, contact Carla on 07350422306 or click here.

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Walking for All Officer, Carla Adams and walkers Ann Morrison and Clarke Stevenson.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a funding package to provide much-needed financial support to sports clubs across the council area. Up to £3,000 is available to assist eligible clubs to meet costs associated with their ongoing development.

Previously known as the Sports Club Accelerator Fund, the new Sports Club Enhancement Fund demonstrates the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting affiliated sports clubs by helping them address key development priorities.

The fund will help cover costs including sports-related or specialised equipment, one-off sports events or new programmes, club development officer posts and upskilling for coaches and volunteers through coach education and training.

The Sports Club Enhancement Fund is open to constituted sports clubs based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area and affiliated with both their National Governing Body and the local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Clubs continue to face increasing financial pressures, as they deliver their sport and activities within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

In the past five years, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has awarded just under £515,000 to sports clubs. This demonstrates a strong commitment to grassroots sport, and I hope many more clubs will benefit through this latest round of funding.

I would encourage all eligible sports clubs across the Lisburn & Castlereagh area to take advantage of this funding opportunity.”

Applications must be submitted by Friday 12th June 2026, and clubs are encouraged to read the guidance notes carefully before applying online at https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/-sports-club-enhancement-fund  

For queries after reviewing the application process, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing christine.cooke@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk  or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a funding package to provide much-needed financial support to sports clubs across the council area. Up to £3,000 is available to assist eligible clubs to meet costs associated with their ongoing development.

Previously known as the Sports Club Accelerator Fund, the new Sports Club Enhancement Fund demonstrates the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting affiliated sports clubs by helping them address key development priorities.

The fund will help cover costs including sports-related or specialised equipment, one-off sports events or new programmes, club development officer posts and upskilling for coaches and volunteers through coach education and training.

The Sports Club Enhancement Fund is open to constituted sports clubs based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area and affiliated with both their National Governing Body and the local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Clubs continue to face increasing financial pressures, as they deliver their sport and activities within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

In the past five years, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has awarded just under £515,000 to sports clubs. This demonstrates a strong commitment to grassroots sport, and I hope many more clubs will benefit through this latest round of funding.

I would encourage all eligible sports clubs across the Lisburn & Castlereagh area to take advantage of this funding opportunity.”

Applications must be submitted by Friday 12th June 2026, and clubs are encouraged to read the guidance notes carefully before applying online at https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/-sports-club-enhancement-fund  

For queries after reviewing the application process, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing christine.cooke@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk  or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl

Saturday 11th July - Building closes at 6.00pm

Sunday 12th July - CLOSED

Monday 13th July - CLOSED

Tuesday 14th July - Normal Opening Hours

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July opening hours for Lagan Valley LeisurePlex:

Saturday 11th July -  Normal Opening Hours

Sunday 12th July - CLOSED

Monday 13th July - CLOSED

Tuesday 14th July - Building closes at 6.00pm

Wednesday 15th July - Normal Opening Hours

The popular event will take place on Wednesday 17 June, supported by an exciting new title sponsor.

All races start at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and runners can avail of an early-bird entry rate until 30th April 2026.  Early registration is highly recommended as the event is expected to sell out quickly.

The Half Marathon and 10K Road Race routes are the perfect choice for runners aiming to push themselves in terms of distance or chase a personal best time. The route will again take in the Eikon Centre and MLK site which will provide a ‘flat and fast’ route to suit both experienced and new runners.

The 3K Fun Run offers family and friends the opportunity to come together and complete a fitness journey of their own.   Schools and youth groups are encouraged to take part and avail of a group discount all whilst getting active.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Amanda Grehan said, “The council is delighted to open registrations for the 2026 Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The event has remained a popular fixture for over four decades with runners and the local community supporting the event year on year.

It is a great occasion for people of all ages to come together for a fun evening with friends and family. There is a choice of events to meet your fitness goal so there is no need to worry if this is your first time entering. The atmosphere promises to be amazing with a radio roadshow, music and prize competitions to help get you across the finish line.

I would encourage everyone to sign up today!  Proceeds from the event will support the Mayoral Charity so it’s also a great opportunity to support a worthwhile cause along the way.”

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, added, “We are delighted to welcome MB Chicken as the title sponsor for the 2026 event. It is fantastic to have the backing of a local business who is committed to supporting the community and promoting health and wellbeing opportunities for all.

This year we have also selected medals and t-shirts made from recyclable material, which helps meet the council’s sustainability objectives and make a positive contribution to the environment.

You can sign up online now and avail of an early-bird entry rate until 30th April. All events are inclusive and open to wheelchair and hand cycle participants, so it is a great opportunity to get everyone active together. As a keen runner myself, I am really looking forward to taking part in the 10K and seeing you all at the start line.”

Rana Abhol from MB Chicken in Lisburn said, “Sponsoring the Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run is a fantastic way to give back to the local community. We are delighted to be involved with an event which brings people of all ages together and promotes healthier, more active lifestyles.”

For further information or to register for the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race or Fun Run, visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com. Details can also be found on the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, ‘Be Active, Stay Active Lisburn Castlereagh.

Pictured - Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Amanda Grehan, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee and runners.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has marked another two months of sporting successes, recognising two athletes who excelled in their respective sports in January and February.

January’s winner was basketball player, Richard Berzins. Richard captained the Phoenix Senior Men to victory in the NICC National Cup, bringing the trophy back to Lisburn Racquets. In his role as a Cleveland Project Coach, he also mentors young players and promotes hard work and teamwork. His impact is recognised by local schools, some who praised him as a “wonderful basketball coach” and credited him as an inspiration to their pupils. Despite the demands of national competition, Richard remains deeply involved in coaching at the Phoenix Basketball Academy. After the National Cup win, he brought the trophy into an academy session, giving young players a motivating glimpse of what dedication can achieve. As a coach, captain and mentor, he continues to be an excellent role model both on and off the court.

15-year-old, Ed Marshall was awarded February winner. Ed represented Ireland at the 14th Qatar International Friendship Championships. He was the only team member from Northern Ireland selected for the four strong Team Ireland squad. This was Ed’s first international competition despite only taking up bowling two years ago through the Vitality Membership Tenpin Bowling Programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. He impressed by averaging 200.56 over 18 games, which saw him reach qualification for the Masters, an outstanding achievement for a first time international athlete. Ed’s dedication to his sport and professionalism is testimony to his success. He is seen as an excellent ambassador for young bowlers aiming for international level. Ed has a bright future ahead, and this championship marks an exciting step in his sporting journey.

Entries for March & Aprils Sports Personality of the Month are currently open.Nominations close on Monday 4th May at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured - January's Sports Personality of the Month winner, basketball player, Richard Berzins.

Pictured - February's Sports Personality of the Month winner, bowler, Ed Marshall.

Congratulations to skaters Mollie, Halle, Ebony, Fausta and Clare who have qualified for the British Solo Ice Dance Championships, taking place in Sheffield from 13th –17th April. 
The girls are coached by Maria Filippov, Phil Walsh and Stuart Angus.

Mollie Rainey and Halle Johnston will compete at Intermediate Novice level.

Ebony White, Fausta Girvyte and Clare Hayes will compete at Basic Novice level.

The girls will compete alongside some of the top solo ice dancers from across Britain, with their performances contributing towards a national ranking that identifies the country’s leading skaters.
Good luck girls!

Lisburn & Castlereagh Welcomes Walking for All Launch to Inspire Health, Inclusion and Community

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has welcomed the announcement of a brand new ‘Walking for All’ programme, a major cross-border initiative supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and led by Outscape.  Supported by €7.5 million from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), ‘Walking for All’ will aim to engage over 14,000 people across rural areas in Northern Ireland and the border counties to engage in accessible, led walking activities.

Designed to improve health and well-being in rural communities by making walking more accessible, enjoyable, and social for everyone to explore and participate in, Walking for All, will deliver short, regular walks in local community spaces. The programme is open to adults, regardless of age, background, or ability. By fostering a focus on connection, inclusion, and well-being, Walking for All will seek to build sustainable, healthy communities and address issues such as social isolation, wellbeing and inactivity.

The programme is being delivered by Outscape in partnership with 15 partner organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including 8 local authorities, the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and 6 Local Sports Partnerships. Sport Ireland, Mountaineering Ireland (Get Ireland Walking), and the Public Health Agency are associate partners. Locally this project is being led by Carla Adams a newly appointed Walking for All Officer for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council who will support the development of these walking groups across the council area, working closely with local communities.

Sixteen dedicated Walking for All Officers have already been recruited and will lead the programme as well as train Walk Leaders, supporting the creation of nearly 600 walking groups and engaging thousands in regular, social walks over the next three years.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir MLA said: ‘I’m delighted that my Department, working in partnership with DRCDG and SEUPB, is providing funding under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. WFA is not just about walking - it is about inspiring people to come together through shared, volunteer led experiences, strengthening bonds within our rural communities while enjoying the beauty of our countryside at its very best.

This project will create a lasting legacy of healthier, happier and more connected rural communities, demonstrating the remarkable impact of community-led initiatives to inspire long-term positive change and helping rural areas to thrive as places where people can live, work and prosper.’

The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, welcomed the announcement.

Minister Calleary said: "I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contributed to the Walking for All initiative. I am pleased that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will continue to support this outstanding project in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Department of Agriculture,

Environment, and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland. The area will reap long-term benefits from this project”.

Minister Buttimer added: "This significant funding will support social interaction, reduce isolation and encourage active lifestyles. The planned investment will enable communities to reach their full potential in terms of the economy, society, and environment.”

Welcoming the announcement, Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), said: “Walking for All reflects the purpose of PEACEPLUS by creating opportunities for people to come together in ways that strengthen health, confidence and connection. Many rural communities may not have easy access to sports facilities, and this programme offers a simple and inclusive way to address those challenges. By providing trained support, accessible routes and a welcoming structure, it will help thousands of people build new routines and deepen their sense of belonging together. We are pleased to support an initiative that encourages shared enjoyment of the outdoors and contributes to longterm wellbeing across our region.”

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation at Outscape added: “Walking for All will enable people of all ages and abilities across NI and the border counties to 'step out' in supported, inclusive and welcoming walking groups. Rooted in rural communities, this landmark participation programme seeks to increase levels of physical activity, while addressing social isolation and loneliness amongst some members of our community. 

The funding from PEACEPLUS will bring communities to the heart of their local landscapes, enabling them to explore, create friendships and support each other through walking and in shared appreciation of the outdoors.

Trained Walk Leaders will deliver local walks within their communities, supported by Officers engaged by local authorities and sports partnerships. This network of Walk Leaders will be responsible for delivering life-enhancing support to their communities in a fun and fulfilling role, leading a short, regular weekly walk near their home. Together with our partners, we're excited to offer everyone the opportunity to walk together, make new friends and improve their health through Walking for All.”

Walking for All is a key priority for both governments across the island, supporting public health, community wellbeing, and preventative action.  Research shows that structured walking is one of the most cost-effective and inclusive ways to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and deepen people’s connection with nature, whilst strengthening community participation and cross-sector collaboration.

Dawson Stelfox, Chair of Outscape and the first Irishman to summit Mount Everest speaking on the programme potential added;  “Walking for All is a vital investment in community health and wellbeing across NI and the border counties of Ireland, rooted in the evidence that simple, locally led walking programmes can deliver lasting benefits which improve physical and mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community ties.

Outscape is proud to be the lead delivery partner for Walking for All working in partnership with Councils, LSPs, health bodies and community organisations. The programme has the potential to reach people who might otherwise be left behind, as well as create sustainable, positive change in community wellbeing and social cohesion across the region.”

Visit www.walkingforall.com for more information on becoming a Walk Leader or to find local walks.

The very first Walking Netball Tournament hosted at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex has been hailed a resounding success, bringing together six teams for a fun-filled day of competition.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in partnership with Netball Northern Ireland, the tournament aimed to promote Walking Netball and encourage participation in a welcoming environment, with the emphasis firmly placed on enjoyment rather than competition.

Teams taking part included The Duffers, Lagan Ladies, Lecale Ladies, Forum Foxes and Crumlin Stars. After a series of round-robin games, The Duffers emerged victorious as overall winners.

Both the Lagan Ladies and The Duffers were formed through the council’s six-week walking netball programmes delivered at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

The event concluded with a fun shooting competition, with Deborah from Forum Foxes being crowned the overall winner.

Speaking at the event Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee said, “It’s fantastic to see so many people coming together to take part in our first Walking Netball Tournament.

Events like this highlight the importance of inclusive, accessible sport in our community. Walking netball provides a brilliant opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to stay active, meet new people and improve both their physical and mental wellbeing.

I would like to thank the Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Development Team and Netball Northern Ireland for organising the event and all the walking netball groups for taking part.”

It is hoped that the tournament will become an annual event in the Walking Netball calendar, continuing to promote the sport across the Lisburn & Castlereagh Council area.

For anyone who wishes to get involved, please click here for more information.

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee pictured with participating Walking Netball teams.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council was delighted to welcome over 120 energetic pupils from schools across the council area to compete in the 2026 Sports Hall Athletics Competition at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Hosted in partnership with Athletics NI, the event brought together young athletes to test their speed, strength and teamwork in an action-packed programme. The day was packed with challenges, from the Medicine Ball Chest Push, Standing Long Jump, to the fast-paced Speed Bounce, Soft Javelin Throw, and Relay Races.

In the lead-up to the competition, each school benefited from expert coaching sessions delivered by Athletics NI, helping pupils sharpen their techniques and build confidence.

St. Joseph’s Primary School, Lisburn emerged as the overall champions. Friends’ Preparatory Department gave a strong performance to finish just behind in second place, while Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School proudly secured third.

Presenting the trophies, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee said, “The Sports Hall Athletics Competition is a fantastic event that brings pupils together to enjoy new sports while representing their school. While the trophies recognise great performances, the real purpose of the day lies in participation, teamwork and encouraging one another throughout the competition”.

Sport helps young people develop confidence, resilience and teamwork. These are skills that benefit them both in sport and in everyday life.

I would like to thank the Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Development Team and Athletics NI for organising the event, and all the schools for taking part.”

The schools that took part were in the Sports Halls Athletics included: Anahilt Primary School, Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School, Ballymacash Primary School, Forthill Primary School, Knockmore Primary School, Largymore Primary School, Maghaberry Primary School, Old Warren Primary School, Rowandale Integrated Primary School, St. Joseph’s Primary School, Friends and Wallace Preparatory Departments.

Pictured, winners of the Sports Hall Athletics Competition, St Joseph’s Primary School with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.

Second place, Friends’ Preparatory Department with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.

Third place, Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School with Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is celebrating International Women’s Day with a packed timetable of classes and activities to support and empower women and girls. The free event will take place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex on Wednesday 4 March, from 10am–1pm.

The morning will kick off with a programme of energising exercise classes suitable for all ages and abilities, offering a fun and supportive way for everyone to get active together. Following the fitness sessions, attendees are encouraged to visit the Social Café, where a number of guest speakers will share inspiring advice over a cup of tea or coffee.

Information stands from Volunteer Now and Women’s Aid will also be available, providing an opportunity to learn more about the vital support services offered within the community.
In addition, representatives from the PSNI will be on hand to provide advice on women’s safety and ongoing initiatives to tackle violence against women and girls.

Speaking ahead of the event, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, said, “I’m excited for people to come along to this year’s International Women’s Day event, which promises to be an insightful and motivational event. I’m particularly looking forward to hearing from our guest speakers and celebrating the incredible women in our community.”

For more information and to book onto one of our fitness classes, click here.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is calling on local sports clubs to sign up for the very first Sports Club Games. The new initiative encourages clubs to step out of their comfort zone and compete across three new sports.

Designed to encourage friendly competition, the Sports Club Games will see clubs go head-to-head in Dodgeball, Pickleball and Tenpin Bowling. It’s a chance for clubs to try something different and show their competitive spirit in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

The Games will take place across three evenings between 24 February and 25 March, hosted at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl. Open to participants aged 16 and over, the events are suitable for all levels of fitness, regardless of experience.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for sports clubs to test their adaptability in an unfamiliar competitive context, while also bonding as a team and having fun. The Sports Club Games are about participation, enjoyment and bringing clubs together in a new and exciting way.”

Each evening promises plenty of action, with a number of trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The Games will then culminate in the crowning of the overall Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Club Champion at the final event.”

Sports clubs across the council area are encouraged to sign up and get involved. Whether you’ve tried the sports before or not, the focus is on taking part, working together and enjoying some friendly competition.

To register a team, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Grant Dugan from Tenpin Ireland, Michael Preston from Dundonald Football Club and Kim Scott from Dundonald Ice Skating Club.

Sports Lisburn & Castlereagh has kicked off the new year by recognising two athletes who excelled in their sport during November and December.

Runner Matt Shield was named November’s winner. After a 10-year break from international competition, Matt represented Northern Ireland at the British & Irish Masters International Cross Country Championships, held in November at Roundhay Park in Leeds. Competing across age categories, Matt finished behind 16 athletes in the men’s 65s but was a clear winner in the men’s 70s category. He secured gold in his age group and his performance also helped the Northern Ireland Men’s 70s team claim team gold.

The November winner was awarded to athlete, Jacob Dumigan. Jacob represented Wallace High School at the Ulster Schools Athletics Combined Events in September. He placed first overall, recording personal bests in all five events. For his age group, the combined event includes hurdles, 200m, long jump, shot put and 800m, all competed on the same day. This performance qualified Jacob for the Irish Schools Combined Games in Athlone in November. He placed fifth overall while competing against older athletes and achieved four personal bests. The top four athletes in the correct age group were selected to represent Ireland at the International Combined Events in Glasgow. Jacob led the Irish boys, finishing eighth overall in the individual event. He achieved a personal best total points score and a shot put personal best of 11.09 metres. His performance helped Ireland secure third place in the U16 boys’ team event. Jacob is currently ranked eighth in the UK and second in Ireland for the U15 boys Pentathlon.

Entries for January & February Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Monday 2nd March at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured - November's Sports Personality of the Month winner, runner, Matt Shield.

Pictured - December's Sports Personality of the Month winner, athelete, Jacob Dumigan.

Everyone is invited to discover an exciting blend of sports and fitness opportunities at the first ever Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Expo. Taking place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex on Saturday 7th February from 10am to 3pm, the free event celebrates active lifestyles across the community.

Attendees will have the chance to engage with LCCC affiliated sports clubs, alongside wellness organisations in our ‘information alley’ helping them take the next or indeed first step in their health and fitness journey.

With over 20 local sports clubs in attendance, visitors can engage directly with clubs and take part in fun fitness challenges. They can also enjoy live sports demonstrations from Lisburn BMX, Phoenix Basketball, Salto Gymnastics, Lisburn Taekwondo, Hillsborough Boys’ Football Club, Hillsborough Walking Football Club, St Patrick’s GAA and Lisburn Softball.

One of the main attractions will be a special appearance from Sam Madden, Ireland’s number one freestyle footballer. Sam will deliver a live demonstration followed by a freestyle football workshop for children aged 7 – 14 years, teaching the basics of the sport.

A full programme of fitness and activity sessions will also run throughout the day. A “Try” Duathlon will be delivered by Triathlon Ireland, offering participants the opportunity to experience multi-sport activities in a supportive environment.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee said, “The Sports Expo is a fantastic opportunity for people to come along and discover the wide range of sports clubs that are available across Lisburn and Castlereagh. Attendees can also take part in a timetable of additional Vitality Membership fitness classes and explore a variety of health and wellbeing information stands.

I would like to thank our local sports clubs and health and wellbeing organisations for their support, and I look forward to welcoming everyone on the day.”

For more information and to book click here.

Pictured - Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Emily Hassard from Salto Gymnastics Club and Peter Stewart for Lisburn Taekwondo Club.

Mollie Rainey has been ice skating at Dundonald International Ice Bowl for the past 11 years, from the age of 5. Mollie’s ice skating journey began with lessons from Dancing on Ice star and Dundonald International Ice Bowl skating coach Maria Filippov, and she continues to skate with Maria on a regular basis.

Mollie has qualified for British Championships for the past 4 years at various levels and most recently represented Dundonald International Ice Bowl in the Intermediate Novice Solo Ice Dancer in Sheffield where she placed 4th. This competition was a qualifier for the British Championships which will take place in April 2026 and sees the top 25 skaters from all over the United Kingdom compete at her level.  

Mollie also achieved podium success at the Blackburn International Solo Trophy and has recently been selected for the Solo Ice Dance Team GB Development Squad, a national-level training team for promising young skaters across Great Britain.

Benefiting from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Vitality Membership package, Mollie’s mum commented, “We joined Vitality Membership shortly after its launch which has been very convenient, as we use Dundonald International Ice Bowl so often. Mollie is now old enough to use the gym at nearby Billy Neill MBE Country Park too. Mollie trains with her coach Maria multiple mornings before school, after school and at the weekends, alongside studying for her GCSE’s. She also has a busy off-ice schedule in the evening where she works on keeping her core strength and fitness strong. 

Mollie is consistently improving her ability and performances, demonstrating that local talent from a country with just one ice rink and limited resources can compete with athletes based in Great Britain.  Mollie is a very humble, talented and hardworking 16-year-old and we are excited to see where her future will take her.”

We wish Mollie all the best in her upcoming trip to Poland later this month where she will compete at the International Edge Cup 2026 in Solo Ice Dance, representing Great Britain.   Mollie will then return to Blackburn and Slough to compete in a further two qualifiers for British Championships 2026.  

Mollie Rainey with coach Maria Filippov

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated another two months of sporting talent, recognising two athletes who excelled in their sport in September and October. Earlier this month, we also honoured local athletes at the annual Sports Awards supported by Drayne’s Farm.

Mountain runner, Karen Wilton was named September's winner. Karen kicked off the month at the Ben Nevis 10-mile race, which included a 1500m ascent, and finished 9th female overall. Karen was then selected for the third time this year by the NI Mountain Running Association to represent NI & Ulster to compete in the 30k Seven Sister Sky Challenge. The following day, Karen competed in the Armagh Cross Country, finishing 12th and winning her age category. At the end of September, she was the first veteran over-50 woman to complete the 35k Adventure Race in County Fermanagh, finishing 3rd in the women’s race. To round off a remarkable month, Karen was announced as the 1st lady in the NIMRA 2025 Championship.

October’s winner was awarded to climber, Hannah McNeice who has won the Under 11 Youth Climbing Series for the second year in a row. This prestigious competition included two challenging disciplines, top rope and bouldering and takes place across four events in Ireland: Belfast, Cork and two rounds in Dublin. The series began on 6th September and concluded on 18th October. Hannah finished in exceptional style, becoming the only competitor in her category to top all four routes. Hannah gives nothing less than 100% in both training and competition and her dedication shows in her results.

Entries for November & December’s Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Wednesday 31st December at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured – September's Sports Personality of the Month winner, mountain runner, Karen Wilton.

Pictured – October’s Sports Personality of the Month winner, climber, Hannah McNeice.

The magical Santa Dash will be making a sparkling return to Lough Moss Leisure Centre on Friday 12th December and this year it promises to be bigger, brighter and more festive than ever!

Participants can get into the Christmas spirit as they run, jog or walk around a spectacular glow lit trail. The event is the perfect activity for all ages as everyone simply completes as many laps as they can, up to a maximum of 5K.

This year, families can also enjoy a new winter wonderland experience with a choice of seasonal activities. Participants can step inside an enchanting giant snow globe or keep their toes defrosted with a bounce on a Rudolph themed bouncy castle and slide. There will also be Christmas face painting and DJ entertainment for a truly festive party.

Santa will then be taking time out of his busy schedule to welcome children to his grotto. This is the perfect time for families to capture their own photos or hand deliver their letters to Santa.  There will also be an inclusive neurodivergent friendly Santa experience from 6.30pm.

Mayor Amanda said, “I would like to encourage everyone to sign up for this year’s Santa Dash. You do not need to be an experienced runner to take part, you just need plenty of smiles and lots of Christmas spirit. It is the perfect event for families, groups of friends, or those looking to set themselves a festive challenge.

The entry fee includes your very own Santa hat, a medal and a hot chocolate for crossing the finish line. This year, I am especially excited to see all the free Christmas activities that families can enjoy as part of the event. It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together for a jolly evening of fun.

The proceeds from the Santa Dash will help raise funds for my chosen charity, Action Cancer, which highlights the importance of breast screening. Please spread the word and encourage as many participants as possible to run or walk in support of such a vital cause.”

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee added, “I am thrilled to see the return of the Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. The event has always been a popular activity on people’s Christmas calendars so it is fantastic that we can welcome back families and runners for a night of yuletide fun.

Participants can wear their Santa hat and start the evening with a festive warm up session to get everyone moving. You can then choose to complete as many laps as you can so there is no need to worry if this is your first event.

There are also lots of family events to fill the evening so it will be a great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit. Please sign up before 12 December and jingle all the way to Lough Moss Leisure Centre’s Santa Dash!”

To register for the Santa Dash click here.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Santa Claus.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has paid tribute to local sporting talent during the 2025 Sports Awards supported by Drayne’s Farm. The annual event took place on Friday 14 November at a prestigious ceremony at La Mon Hotel and Country Club.

The event shined a spotlight on inspirational young people with an interview from special guest CBBC and multi-talented star Cara Mailey.

Broadcaster, Lynette Fay hosted the evening and helped showcase the amazing achievements and motivational stories behind each award winner.

Athlete, Sean Lavery was named Senior Sports Personality of the Year. Sean represented Northern Ireland at the World Transplant Games in Dresden, competing in the male donor 40–49-year category. His exceptional performance secured him an astonishing five medals in the 5K road race, 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, long jump and 100m sprint. Gymnast Mollie Magennis was awarded second while James Nicholson from Carryduff Taekwondo Club collected third place.

Junior Sports Personality of the Year was won by boxer, Paige Nickels. Paige achieved historic success, becoming the first female from Northern Ireland to win both the UK National title and Irish National title simultaneously. Her exceptional season included 11 gold medals and one silver medal across several international competitions. Tennis player, Charlie McVeigh was placed second and athlete, Ben Sykes third.

Swimmer, Siomha Brady achieved Disability Sports Personality of the Year. Siomha represented Ireland at the 2025 World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore, competing in the S7/SM classification. Over 600 athletes from more than 60 nations took part in the Championships, with Siomha finishing an impressive sixth place across her three events. Second place was won by European Tour golfer Mark Clougherty with Boccia player Jayne Milligan picking up third place.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Alderman Amanda Grehan said, “The Sports Awards is a true celebration of the outstanding sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.

It has been fantastic to see so many sports represented which highlights the diversity of sport within our council area and the opportunity for the community to try a new activity. I was personally delighted to see award categories for Disability Sports Team and Sports Personality with a Disability, which champions my mayoral theme of inclusivity – a city that sees everyone.

“I would also like to thank our special guest Cara Mailey and I know her story of balancing successful interests and activities while faced with a number of challenges will provide great motivation to many of our young people.”

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee added “The Sports Award is an opportunity to celebrate the sporting success of individuals, teams and coaches in Lisburn & Castlereagh. There is a huge amount of talent on our doorstep with many World, Commonwealth, European and National medallists who continue to make us immensely proud.

“The Council also encourages people to take up sport recreationally by delivering programmes to help those wishing to progress in a specific sport or just take part for the fun and enjoyment.

“I would like to congratulate all the award winners for their achievements and to everyone behind the scenes for their commitment to sport. I would like to thank Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh for their continued partnership with the Council and also local company, Drayne’s Farm, for generously supporting the event and acknowledging the important role sport plays in our area.”

Carryduff Colts Inclusion Football Team proudly collected Disability Sports Team of the Year. The team participated in the IFA Junior Disability Cup and LCCC Mayor’s Inclusion Cup, while focusing on the self-esteem of players. Second place was jointly awarded to Lisburn 2gether Special Olympics Club Swimming and Bowling Teams.

Sports Club of the Year was won by St Patrick’s Lisburn GAC with Lisburn Taekwondo Club taking second place and Hillsborough Boys’ Junior Football Club third. Senior Sports Team of the Year was awarded to Lisburn Rugby Club Women’s 1st XV while Crewe United Senior Men’s Football Team collected second place and Hillsborough Walking Football Team third.

Lisburn Cricket Club U13 Boys’ Team picked up Junior Sports Club Team of the Year and Lisburn City Archery Club Junior Team was presented with second place and St Joseph’s Glenavy GAC U14 Girls’ Gaelic Football Team third place. The School Sports Team of the Year was won by Wallace High School Boys’ 1st XV Rugby Team while Ballymacash Primary School Girls’ Football Team took second and Laurelhill Community College U13 Girls’ Football Team third place.

John Kennedy from Lisburn Rugby Club 1st XV Women’s Team was honoured with the Sports Coach of the Year Award for his outstanding work as Head Coach. Second prize was awarded to Dawn Cromie from Kaleidoscope Gymnastics Club and third place went to Sean McCaffery from Carryduff Colts Inclusion Football Team.

The Merit Award was presented to individuals to recognise the essential and valuable service they provide to their clubs in the pursuit of success in their chosen sport. The Alison Slater Junior Merit Award was achieved by Mia Rooney from Lisburn Taekwondo Club.

The David Edwards Senior Merit Award was presented to Malachy Kearney from Phoenix Basketball Club, Adrian Williams of Lisburn Taekwondo Club, Jennifer McCormick from Lisburn City Archery Club and Sathish Kumar Manohar of Belfast Super Kings Cricket Club.

Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added his support for the event, “The Sports Awards is one of the highlights of the year for Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh as it gives us the opportunity to congratulate athletes, teams and coaches for their hard work and dedication in their chosen sport. We hope our nominees will inspire others to participate in sport and help develop sporting talent and healthier lifestyles in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Owen Drayne, Partner at Drayne’s Farm added, “We are always delighted to sponsor the Lisburn and Castlereagh Council Sports Awards and every year the wealth of sporting talent of both local individuals and teams never fails to impress. As a long-established Lisburn business, Drayne’s Farm is embedded in the community, and it is a pleasure to be involved in recognising the dedication and commitment of all these local winners.”

Over 100 women and men dressed in pink gathered at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex to take part in two fitness classes in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Participants enjoyed lively Zumba Gold and Pretty in Pink Aerobics sessions filled with energy, fun and a dash of pink clothing! The event aimed to raise awareness of breast screening as well promote the importance of staying active to enhance your health and wellbeing.

The morning also included a relaxed social café where attendees enjoyed home baked goods, tea and coffee, while hearing from guest speaker, Lucy McCusker, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Action Cancer.

Alongside Lucy, participants were moved by the stories of two inspiring breast cancer survivors, Sam and Geraldine, who shared their personal journey and experience of diagnosis and recovery from cancer.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Amanda said, “It’s wonderful to see so many people come together to show their support for my charity, Action Cancer. Cancer has touched many lives and I have seen the difference early detection can make. Events like today help to raise vital awareness but also bring our community together in such a positive and uplifting way.

Hearing Sam and Geraldine’s stories reminds us all just how important it is to prioritise our health and get screened. I hope the message to take away from the session is simple but life-saving – get yourself screened. Men get breast cancer too. Awareness is strength, check yourself.”

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee added, “It was truly inspiring to hear how Geraldine has benefited from our Cancer Rehabilitation Programme. Her story highlights the real impact these programmes can have helping people rebuild their confidence, improve their wellbeing and discover a love for fitness again.

I would like to thank our Health & Wellbeing team for organising such a fun and engaging morning that also highlighted the valuable work of Action Cancer in our communities.”

For more information on Action Cancer and the services they provide please click here.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, with Andrea Stanbridge, Health & Wellbeing Co-Ordinator and representatives from Action Cancer. 

Excitement levels have started to build as Santa Claus prepares to return to his official residence at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. Bookings are now open for a magical Christmas 2025 with a sleigh-load of seasonal activities for the whole family.

The countdown begins with the popular Breakfast or Supper with Santa! Children can enjoy a festive treat and book a seat at Santa’s table for a hearty breakfast or supper. Each child can then enjoy a special visit with Santa in his grotto for an unforgettable Christmas experience. After visiting Santa, the excitement continues for every child with an activity of their choice, including ice skating, tenpin bowling or Indiana Land.

A new ASD Friendly Breakfast with Santa has also been introduced to the programme to provide a calm, sensory friendly Christmas experience where every child can feel the magic their way.

Breakfast with Santa will take place on Saturday 13th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st December with the ASD Friendly Breakfast session on Sunday 14th December.  Supper with Santa will run on Friday 12th December. Pre-booking is essential.

The winter wonderland experience continues with Santa on the ice during public afternoon sessions on Saturday 13th and 20th December! The whole family can enjoy a yuletide skate and visit Santa on his famous red sleigh for the ultimate Christmas memory.  Glide along to a melody of festive hits with DJ entertainment and skating aids to help little elves take their first steps on the ice. Pre-booking is advisable and opens 7 days in advance.

Get ready to jingle all the way with a festive host of Christmas discos in Indiana Land. Choose from an ASD Silent Disco on 19th December for children aged 14 years and under who are on the autism spectrum. Every child will receive their own wireless headset so they can select their favourite sing-along songs to enjoy the disco at their own pace.

Rudolph’s Rockin Christmas Disco returns to Indiana Land on Tuesday 23rd December. Children aged 11 years and under can dance the night away with an evening of non-stop festive music and prize giveaways. Toddlers can also book into the Terrific Tots Christmas Disco on 19th December for a cracker morning of jiggles and wiggles!

Family and friends can grab their favourite Christmas PJs and book into the highly popular tenpin bowling Christmas Eve Pyjama Party. Sessions run from 2.00pm – 5.00pm on 24th December with festive DJ entertainment and sing along tunes to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Launching the Christmas programme, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Tim Mitchell said, “It is great to welcome Santa back to Dundonald International Ice Bowl once again this year.  I hear he’s especially excited to return to his grotto and is already counting down the days to meet the children and their families.

I am also delighted that we have added two ASD-friendly sessions to our programme to ensure more families can enjoy the magic of the season in a quieter, sensory friendly session time.

I also had the opportunity to join Santa on the ice and was very excited to sit on his famous red sleigh!  Ice skating is such a magical activity in the build up to Christmas so the opportunity to meet Santa on the ice will create lasting memories for children and adults too!

I would encourage everyone to check out the wide selection of Christmas activities at Dundonald International Ice Bowl as well as the fantastic festive themed Mission Inflatable sessions and Roller Disco also taking place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

For more information and to book, visit www.theicebowl.com

Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Tim Mitchell launches Christmas 2025 at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. Pictured with Santa Claus on his famous red sleigh and joined by Sienna and Ben.

Five football teams battled the elements of Storm Amy to compete in the first-ever ‘Saunter Shield’ tournament at Lough Moss Leisure Centre on Friday 3 October.

The event was organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in partnership with Community Sports Network and their Danderball Walking Football Programme. The aim was to promote walking football and give the newly formed Carryduff Swifts their first taste of tournament action.

The Swifts were joined by Hillsborough Walking Football Team, a select Avoniel & Shankill team, CALA (representing Carrickfergus and Larne) and Ards Strollers. After some great matches, Ards Strollers emerged victorious, becoming the first winners of the Saunter Shield.

Alongside the main trophy, there was also a ‘Player of the Tournament’ award, chosen by referees from Community Sports Network. With many strong performances throughout the day, Robert Campbell from Hillsborough Walking Football Team was selected as the winner.

Speaking at the tournament, David Lemon, Secretary of the NI Walking Football Federation said “Despite the atrocious weather, the event was very enjoyable. The games were played in the right spirit and as Secretary of the NI Walking Football Federation, it was great to see new teams and players getting involved.

“Walking football is a growing sport for over 55s and events like this help to promote it. Apart from the fun of the game, the benefits to physical and mental health are undeniable. It also opens opportunities for greater social inclusion.

Many thanks to Lisburn Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development team and the Community Sports Network for hosting us today.”

It is hoped that the ‘Saunter Shield’ will become an annual event in the NI Walking Football calendar, continuing to promote walking football across the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

For anyone who wishes to get involved, Carryduff Swifts meet and play every Friday morning from 11am to 12 noon on the 3G pitch at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. For more information contact Eamon Quinn on 07485163690.

Pictured Danny Magill, from Community Sports Network, Captain of the tournament winners team, Ards Strollers and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison. 

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner receives a £100 cheque in recognition of an outstanding achievement in their respective sport.

Sprinter Ben Sykes was named July’s winner. The talented sprinter made headlines on 21st July at the European Youth Olympics, winning bronze in the 100m sprint with a time of 10.57 seconds. This was Ireland’s first medal at the competition and saw Ben set a personal best of 10.56 seconds in the semi-finals, which was a tremendous accolade. During the final, Ben also stayed composed during multiple false starts which was testimony to his medal success. His next goal is now to represent Ireland at the U21 World Championships in August 2026, in Oregon, USA.

The August winner was awarded to athlete, Sean Lavery for his incredible medal success at the World Transplant Games in Dresden. Sean competed for Team Northern Ireland collecting an impressive gold in the 100m sprint and long jump, silver in the 50m freestyle and 50m backstroke and bronze in the 5K run. This was the first year that the Transplant Sport Northern Ireland team competed as a standalone member country of the World Transplant Games Federation and they managed to finish an outstanding 11th out of 53 countries.

Sean’s story reaches beyond the podium. An altruistic donor, he gave an organ to an unknown recipient just two years ago. Alongside his five medals, Sean was also presented with the Spirit of the Games Trophy by the Transplant Sport Northern Ireland Management Team, an honour that reflects both his sporting excellence and his character.

Entries for September & October’s Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Friday 31st October at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Sprinter, Ben Sykes, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Adrian Daye and Athlete, Sean Lavery.

Pictured – July's Sports Personality of the Month winner, Ben Sykes and August's Sports Personality of the Month winner, Sean Lavery.

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner receives a £100 cheque in recognition of an outstanding achievement in their respective sport.

Sprinter Ben Sykes was named July’s winner. The talented sprinter made headlines on 21st July at the European Youth Olympics, winning bronze in the 100m sprint with a time of 10.57 seconds. This was Ireland’s first medal at the competition and saw Ben set a personal best of 10.56 seconds in the semi-finals, which was a tremendous accolade. During the final, Ben also stayed composed during multiple false starts which was testimony to his medal success. His next goal is now to represent Ireland at the U21 World Championships in August 2026, in Oregon, USA.

The August winner was awarded to athlete, Sean Lavery for his incredible medal success at the World Transplant Games in Dresden. Sean competed for Team Northern Ireland collecting an impressive gold in the 100m sprint and long jump, silver in the 50m freestyle and 50m backstroke and bronze in the 5K run. This was the first year that the Transplant Sport Northern Ireland team competed as a standalone member country of the World Transplant Games Federation and they managed to finish an outstanding 11th out of 53 countries.

Sean’s story reaches beyond the podium. An altruistic donor, he gave an organ to an unknown recipient just two years ago. Alongside his five medals, Sean was also presented with the Spirit of the Games Trophy by the Transplant Sport Northern Ireland Management Team, an honour that reflects both his sporting excellence and his character.

Entries for September & October’s Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Friday 31st October at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here. 

Pictured – Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Sprinter, Ben Sykes, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Adrian Daye and Athlete, Sean Lavery.

Pictured – July's Sports Personality of the Month winner, Ben Sykes and August's Sports Personality of the Month winner, Sean Lavery.

Sports clubs and coaches are preparing for the new season by signing up to the council’s popular coach education programme. The specialised training courses offer a valuable opportunity for clubs to develop their skills and provide a safe and inclusive environment for their members.

The new timetable runs from October through to March and includes a range of courses, which are conveniently delivered across multiple locations and online. Course topics include First Aid in Sport, Safeguarding and for the first time, Autism and Sports Coaching Training.

Launching the programme, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “We have many growing and successful clubs in Lisburn & Castlereagh who are led by a team of dedicated and committed coaches and volunteers. The coach education courses will help these clubs to update their skills to ensure they meet essential training requirements.

Courses are available online and in person which makes it easy for everyone to access a programme to suit their schedule. We are also pleased to introduce a new Autism and Sports Coaching session, which will help clubs provide a welcoming and inclusive environment to get the best out of all participants.”

Councillor Mitchell added, “There is a calendar of courses to explore on the council website. I would encourage clubs to sign up to a course today and make a great start to the 2025/2026 season.”

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/sports-training-courses-and-events#training-courses-for-sports-clubs-and-coaches

The aim of the awards is to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a glittering ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 14 November. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2025 Sports Awards, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is your chance to nominate an individual or club making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have many athletes who have achieved amazing results in their sport, so it is important to take the time to celebrate their success.

The theme of this year’s awards is inspiring young people, which will showcase the fantastic achievements of many rising stars across a mix of sports. I know their success will inspire others from their generation to get involved in sport either recreationally or competitively.

I am particularly looking forward to hearing from our special guest Cara Mailey who is a star on CBBC, a published writer, fashion designer and actively involved in many sports in the local community.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Monday 29th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to visit the council website and apply online today!”, concluded Councillor Mitchell

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I know the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week to excel in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Draynes Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online by clicking here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

Pictured, L-R - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, CBBC star and published writer, Cara Mailey and Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

The aim of the awards is to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a glittering ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 14 November. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2025 Sports Awards, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is your chance to nominate an individual or club making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have many athletes who have achieved amazing results in their sport, so it is important to take the time to celebrate their success.

The theme of this year’s awards is inspiring young people, which will showcase the fantastic achievements of many rising stars across a mix of sports. I know their success will inspire others from their generation to get involved in sport either recreationally or competitively.

I am particularly looking forward to hearing from our special guest Cara Mailey who is a star on CBBC, a published writer, fashion designer and actively involved in many sports in the local community.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Monday 29th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to visit the council website and apply online today!”, concluded Councillor Mitchell

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I know the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week to excel in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Draynes Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online by clicking here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

Pictured, L-R - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, CBBC star and published writer, Cara Mailey and Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated another two months of sporting talent, recognising two athletes who excelled in their sport in May and June.

May’s winner was athlete, Madison Welby. The 15-year-old set a new course record in the Junior Girls 800m at the Ulster School Athletics Championships in May. Madison ran 2.10.14, breaking Elizabeth William’s 25-year-old record by more than five seconds and won the race with a margin of ten seconds to claim Gold. This performance also set a new Irish National Record for the Under-15 age group. Madison went on to win Gold in the Junior Irish Championships for the 800m, setting a new Championship record of 2:09.89. In addition to her outdoor track success, Madison is the NI & Ulster Indoor 1500m Champion as well as the NI & Ulster Schools Cross Country Champion and the All-Ireland Junior Schools Cross Country Champion

Badminton player Stephen Morrison was June’s winner. He represented Ireland in the +45 age group at the European Nations Cup in Ronda, Spain. Ireland finished 4th out of 11 countries, narrowly missing out on a European Bronze medal to the Netherlands. Stephen had fantastic performances throughout the event, competing against Spain, England, Denmark, Scotland and Sweden, before the agonising loss to the Netherlands.

Entries for July & August Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Monday 1st September at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured – Athlete, Madison Welby, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre and Badminton player Stephen Morrison. 

Pictured – May Sports Personality of the Month winner, Athlete, Madison Welby, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre.

Pictured – June Sports Personality of the Month winner, Badminton player Stephen Morrison with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated another two months of sporting talent, recognising two athletes who excelled in their sport in May and June.

May’s winner was athlete, Madison Welby. The 15-year-old set a new course record in the Junior Girls 800m at the Ulster School Athletics Championships in May. Madison ran 2.10.14, breaking Elizabeth William’s 25-year-old record by more than five seconds and won the race with a margin of ten seconds to claim Gold. This performance also set a new Irish National Record for the Under-15 age group. Madison went on to win Gold in the Junior Irish Championships for the 800m, setting a new Championship record of 2:09.89. In addition to her outdoor track success, Madison is the NI & Ulster Indoor 1500m Champion as well as the NI & Ulster Schools Cross Country Champion and the All-Ireland Junior Schools Cross Country Champion

Badminton player Stephen Morrison was June’s winner. He represented Ireland in the +45 age group at the European Nations Cup in Ronda, Spain. Ireland finished 4th out of 11 countries, narrowly missing out on a European Bronze medal to the Netherlands. Stephen had fantastic performances throughout the event, competing against Spain, England, Denmark, Scotland and Sweden, before the agonising loss to the Netherlands.

Entries for July & August Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Monday 1st September at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, click here.

Pictured – Athlete, Madison Welby, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre and Badminton player Stephen Morrison. 

Pictured – May Sports Personality of the Month winner, Athlete, Madison Welby, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre.

Pictured – June Sports Personality of the Month winner, Badminton player Stephen Morrison with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Alderman Aaron McIntyre.

Local children have been making the most of the school holidays with weeks of fun and excitement at the annual ‘Summer in the City’ programme delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

The action-packed summer schemes have taken place at venues including Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Glenmore Activity Centre.

Children have enjoyed a wide range of activities and sports tailored to different age groups. Many schemes also include two exciting off-site trips each week, offering great value for money and even more fun for children.

Sports courses are also delivered across the council area, giving young people the chance to try a new sport.

Visiting some of the summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, "We understand how important it is to keep children active for their health and wellbeing. Our schemes and sports camps not only encourage physical fitness, but also help young people form new friendships, build confidence and develop valuable social skills.

"There’s still time for families to get involved before the new school year begins. We have spaces remaining in some of our most popular sports camps, including Jag Tag and Racquet Camp. These courses are a great way for children to try something new, have fun and end the summer on a real high.”

For full details on the remaining Sports Camps and to enrol online, please click here.

Local children have been making the most of the school holidays with weeks of fun and excitement at the annual ‘Summer in the City’ programme delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

The action-packed summer schemes have taken place at venues including Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Glenmore Activity Centre.

Children have enjoyed a wide range of activities and sports tailored to different age groups. Many schemes also include two exciting off-site trips each week, offering great value for money and even more fun for children.

Sports courses are also delivered across the council area, giving young people the chance to try a new sport.

Visiting some of the summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, "We understand how important it is to keep children active for their health and wellbeing. Our schemes and sports camps not only encourage physical fitness, but also help young people form new friendships, build confidence and develop valuable social skills.

"There’s still time for families to get involved before the new school year begins. We have spaces remaining in some of our most popular sports camps, including Jag Tag and Racquet Camp. These courses are a great way for children to try something new, have fun and end the summer on a real high.”

For full details on the remaining Sports Camps and to enrol online, please click here.

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the August Bank Holiday Opening Hours for Lagan Valley LeisurePlex:

Monday 31st August: Building closes at 6.00pm

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the August Bank Holiday Opening Hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Monday 25th August: Building closes at 5.30pm

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the August Bank Holiday Opening Hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Monday 31st August: Building closes at 6.00pm

Energy levels soared as over forty young people slid into action for an energy packed ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The camp is part of the highly successful HEROS cross-community programme that uses ice hockey to inspire and motivate participants. 

Now in its 17h year, the programme brings together young people from Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood, Swords & Finglas in Dublin. During the week, the group received international coaching from Canadian hockey players then had the opportunity to test their skills in a big game on the final evening.

The HEROS programme was developed by the youth partners; Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, along with the international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada.

This highly successful model was first established in Canada and has helped develop life skills and empower over 17,000 young people since it started in 2000. This success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the HEROS programme.

Dropping the puck at the final game, Councillor Alan Givan, Vice Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “This is the 17th year, council has welcomed the HEROS programme to Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The initiative continues to be a tremendous success and is met with such enthusiasm and commitment from everyone involved.

It was fantastic to see so many young people taking part in the big game tonight to showcase their new skills in front of family and friends. Many of the participants have only started skating for the first time while others are returning to the programme in a leadership capacity.

“Sport plays an important role in bringing young people together to take part in positive activity which promotes a culture of teamwork and understanding for one another. I would like to thank the organisers and Canadian HEROS volunteers for delivering such an innovative programme which will hopefully have a major impact on the lives of participants as they apply their new skills and experiences off the ice.”

On behalf of the youth partners, Natalie Trainor added, “The programme works towards giving young people a unique opportunity to learn and develop life skills in ice hockey while developing aspirations for themselves and building relationships between young people from different backgrounds. 

“The programme has been running for 17 years and we are delighted to celebrate the talent, friendships and skills being developed as a result of the programme.  We hope that every young person gains from the experience and takes away positive messages from this unique project.”

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Friday 11 July:  Building closes at 5.30pm

Saturday 12 July: CLOSED

Sunday 13 July:  Normal Opening Hours

Monday 14 July: Normal Opening Hours

For Ice Skating session times, click here 

For Indiana Land session times, click here 

For Tenpin Bowling session times, click here

To pre-book Indiana Land, click here 

For tenpin bowling, please call the Bowling Centre on 028 9080 9102 or 028 9080 9104.

*Pre-booking is not currently required for ice skating.*

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9080 9100 or email icebowl@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Sports Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the winners of the latest Sports Personality of the Month for January, February, March and April.

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

Nova Telfer of Lisburn City Archery Club has been named Sports Personality of the Month for January. Nova represented Northern Ireland at the Archery GB National Championships, which was her very first time competing at that level. She exceeded all expectations by claiming three medals: Silver in the Home Nations Cup, Bronze in U18 Barebow Women, and Bronze in Team Barebow. Remarkably, Nova only picked up a bow less than two years ago, yet she continues to go from strength to strength with every competition.

Sports Personality of the Month for February has been awarded to Kurtis Cameron. A member of Lisburn Softball Club since just last year, Kurtis made an immediate impact and has quickly become one to watch. In February, he earned a coveted spot on the Ireland National Slowpitch Softball Team, one of only seven players selected from Northern Ireland and the youngest squad member! His season highlights also include being named Softball Ulster Division B Male MVP and playing a pivotal role in helping the Lisburn Hawks secure the Division B title and promotion to Division A, which demonstrates what can be achieved with talent and hard work.

Rio McDonagh has been named Sports Personality of the Month for March. Rio played a central role in Wallace High School’s historic Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup victory on 17th March 2025 at Kingspan Stadium, scoring two decisive tries in the final against Royal School Armagh. This triumph marks the first-ever outright Schools’ Cup win for Wallace, securing their legacy in Ulster rugby history.

Sports Personality of the Month for April has been awarded to Hannah Fletcher. Representing Lisnagarvey High School Archery Club, Hannah competed in the Archery NI Schools Cup, facing off against 90 archers from 35 schools. She impressed with a Bronze medal finish in the U16 Recurve Women category and was rewarded with a spot in the National Talent Development Programme. This achievement has led Hannah to be coached by Archery GB Pathway Coach Damien Lennon, which is a major step forward in her sporting journey.

Entries for May & June Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. Nominations close on Friday 4th July at 5pm. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthmayandjune25/

Pictured – January Sports Personality of the Month winner, Archer, Nova Telfer, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Thomas Beckett.

Pictured – February Sports Personality of the Month winner, Softballer, Kurtis Cameron, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Thomas Beckett.

Pictured – March Sports Personality of the Month winner, Rugby player, Rio McDonagh, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Thomas Beckett.

Pictured – April Sports Personality of the Month winner, Archer, Hannah Fletcher, with Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Elected Member Representative, Councillor Thomas Beckett.

Over 5,000 runners gathered at the start line to take part in the 2025 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and MB Chicken Fun Run. The event returned to the streets of Lisburn for the 42nd year on Wednesday 18 June.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the sellout event saw competitive runners, families and schools take on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

This year also heralded the introduction of an exciting new route for the Half Marathon and 10K which took in the Eikon Centre site. The ‘flat and fast’ course provided a traffic free zone to help runners clock up a personal best time.

The Fun Run was sponsored by MB Chicken with every fun runner also receiving a Big Mary Combo voucher. There were lots of prize giveaways along with entertainment from Cool Fm’s Pete Snodden and a special performance from the Rock Choir.

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with Gillian McCrory taking top honours in the Women’s Half Marathon with a time of 1:25:04 while Kate Mulholland took a well-deserved second spot and Naomi McGuckin third. In the Men’s Half Marathon, Patrick McCall made it onto the podium in first place in an impressive time of 1:11:22 with Adam Smyth taking second place and Shane Donnelly finishing a strong third.

In the Half Marathon Wheelchair race, Jayne Bleakley was placed highest finishing female with a time of 1:09:46 while the male event was picked up by Jim Corbett in 1:09:43. Team Kerr won the 10K Wheelchair event.

Hannah Gilliland crossed the finish line in first place in the Women’s 10K in 33:59, followed by Michelle Donnelly in second and Claire Whiteside in third place.

In the Men's 10K, Cameron Stewart clocked up a first place with a quick time of 31:53 closely followed by Brandon McKeown in second place and Noel McNally in third.

The Fun Run was keenly contended with Caitlyn Dickenson picking up first place in the female event, followed by Liv Douglas in second and Jessica Kennedy in third place. The Male Fun Run event was won by Connor McCrory who excelled to first place. Second place was won by Harry Moffitt and third place Matthew Fleming.

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Alderman Amanda Grehan said, “It was fantastic to cheer on the runners as they crossed the finishing line and see first-hand the amazing determination and community spirit of our participants.

There were people taking part for the first time, while others had run many events over the last four decades. I was also thrilled to see so many schools and organisations with a disability taking part as I am passionate about improving opportunities and inclusive for people with disabilities in the council area.

I was honoured to meet so many people around the course earlier when completing in the Fun Run with friends of Parkview Special School. There was such a great atmosphere and lots of fun along the way!”

The Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Tim Mitchell added “I was delighted to see so many runners gathering at the start line to take part in this great event. All three races were sold out, which shows its popularity with competitive runners and families over the last 42 years.

As a keen runner, I know the importance of offering an event of this scale which inspires people to come together to get active. I hope tonight will encourage more people to take up running either recreationally or with a club.

I would like to thank local business MB Chicken for kindly sponsoring this year’s Fun Run in partnership with title sponsor Vitality Membership. Your support and generosity were very much appreciated”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a funding package to provide much needed financial support to sports clubs across the council area. Up to £3,000 is available through the Sports Accelerator Fund to assist eligible clubs meet the costs associated with their ongoing development.

The fund will help cover costs towards sports related or specialised equipment, one off sports events or new programmes, club development officer posts or upskilling of coaches and volunteers through coach education and training.

The Sports Accelerator Fund is open to constituted sports clubs affiliated with both their National Governing Body and the local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh. The grant is exclusively aimed at sports clubs based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

Applications must be submitted by Friday 8th August 2025, and clubs are encouraged to read the guidance notes carefully before applying online at https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/-sports-club-accelerator-fund

For queries after reviewing the application process, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing christine.cooke@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

Pictured - Representatives from Phoenix Basketball Club, Lisburn.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a funding package to provide much needed financial support to sports clubs across the council area. Up to £3,000 is available through the Sports Accelerator Fund to assist eligible clubs meet the costs associated with their ongoing development.

The fund will help cover costs towards sports related or specialised equipment, one off sports events or new programmes, club development officer posts or upskilling of coaches and volunteers through coach education and training.

The Sports Accelerator Fund is open to constituted sports clubs affiliated with both their National Governing Body and the local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh. The grant is exclusively aimed at sports clubs based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

Applications must be submitted by Friday 8th August 2025, and clubs are encouraged to read the guidance notes carefully before applying online at https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/-sports-club-accelerator-fund

For queries after reviewing the application process, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing christine.cooke@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

Pictured - Beatrice, Camille and Elise from Phoenix Basketball Club. A club which has benefited from the Sports Accelerator Fund in the past and will be applying again this year. 

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex was filled with excitement as over 400 local school children made a splash at the annual Lisburn & Castlereagh Primary Schools Swimming Gala.

The event brought together P4 – P7 pupils for a day of friendly competition in what has become one of Northern Ireland’s largest swimming galas.

A total of 22 schools were cheered on as they dived into the pool to compete in the backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, freestyle and relay races.

During the event, the P4 – P5 Special Achievement Award was presented to Katie Glenn from Carr Primary School while the P6 – P7 award was presented to Robyn Gordon from Maghaberry Primary School.

The P4 – P5 freestyle relay was won by Downshire Primary School with Friends Prep achieving a well-deserved 2nd place and Harmony Hill Primary School achieving 3rd place. In the afternoon session, St Joseph’s Primary School picked up 1st place in the P6 freestyle relay with Riverdale Primary School securing 2nd place and Friends Prep claiming 3rd place.

Friends Prep secured a first place win in P6-P7 medley and the P7 free style relays. Downshire Primary School achieved 2nd place in the medley event followed closely by Wallace Prep in 3rd while Harmony Hill Primary School picked up a 2nd place in the free style relay with Downshire Primary School in 3rd place.

Success continued for Friends Prep after they secured first place in the overall schools event, taking home the prestigious champion’s title.  Second prize was closely contended by Downshire Primary School with Pond Park Primary School achieving 3rd place.

Presenting the morning session medals, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Kurtis Dickson, said, “The swimming gala is always a highlight in the school calendar. It is a wonderful opportunity for every child to take part, challenge themselves, and most importantly have fun. Many swimmers were representing their school for the first time, and it was fantastic to see every child supporting one another and cheering them across the finish line.

Congratulations to everyone who took part this year. You should all be very proud of your achievements!”

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee presented the medals in the afternoon session and added, “Swimming is a vital life skill and a fun way for children to stay active. The gala is a great event to help children try the sport and most importantly build their confidence in the water.

I would like to thank all the schools for supporting the event, the students at the South Eastern Regional College for volunteering on the lanes and the staff at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex organising such a successful event.”

Excitement was in the air as eighty pupils from primary schools across Lisburn & Castlereagh laced up their trainers for the 2025 Sports Hall Athletics Competition at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Hosted in partnership with Athletics NI, the event brought together young athletes to test their speed, strength and teamwork in an action-packed programme. The day was packed with challenges, from the Medicine Ball Chest Push, Standing Long Jump, to the fast-paced Speed Bounce, Soft Javelin Throw, and Relay Races.

In the lead-up to the competition, each school benefited from expert coaching sessions delivered by Athletics NI, helping pupils sharpen their techniques and build confidence.

St Joseph’s Primary School emerged as the overall champions. Maghaberry Primary School gave a strong performance to finish just behind in second place, while Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School proudly secured third.

Presenting the trophies, Councillor Brian Higginson, said “The Sports Hall Athletics Competition is a great opportunity for pupils to enjoy a new sport while representing their school. The event encourages every child to strive for a trophy but the overall message is very much about participation and cheering on everyone as they compete in each event.

I hope this experience will inspire more young people to get involved in sport either competitively or just for fun.

I would like to thank the Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Development Team and Athletics NI for organising the event, and all the schools for taking part.”

The schools that took part were in the Sports Halls Athletics included: Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School, Brooklands Primary School, Maghaberry Primary School, Old Warren Primary School, School, Rowandale Integrated Primary School, St. Joseph’s Primary School, Lisburn and Wallace High School Preparatory Department.

Pictured, winners of the Sports Hall Athletics Competition, St Joseph’s Primary School with Councillor Brian Higginson and Padraig Dornan, Athletics Development Officer from Athletics NI.

Second place, Maghaberry Primary School with Councillor Brian Higginson and Padraig Dornan, Athletics Development Officer from Athletics NI.

Third place, Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School with Councillor Brian Higginson and Padraig Dornan, Athletics Development Officer from Athletics NI.

The initiative is part of Men’s Mental Health Week, which is a national campaign that encourages men to seek help and support.

Throughout the week, men can enjoy a packed timetable of activities in a welcoming and relaxed setting. Participants can choose to try walking football, enjoy a guided walk in nature, hit some balls on the driving range, take part in a fitness class or even attend a workshop over a cuppa.

Speaking about the initiative, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said “Men’s Mental Health Week reminds men that it's okay to seek support and care for their health and wellbeing. Taking the first step to get involved is sometimes the biggest challenge but getting out of the house and socialising with others can have such a positive impact on your mental health.

During the week, men can find a wide choice of sessions to suit their availability and interests.  It is also a fantastic opportunity to get together with other men and chat about shared experiences or listen to a guest speaker over a coffee.

I would encourage anyone who has a family member or friend who could benefit from the programme to spread the word and get as many men as possible to come along.”

All events are free to attend and open to men of all ages across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

To view the full schedule and find out how to take part, click here.

Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig, pictured with participants from a men’s hydro session at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and features a mix of sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, swim camps, racquet sports, jag tag and pickleball. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to the Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “Summer in the City is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week. I know many parents look forward to the launch of the programme to help get their children out of the house and mixing with friends of a similar age.

Keeping active helps improve our health and wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many find a passion for a new sport or an interest in a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of staying active.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 2 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig launches the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Summer in the City programme alongside local children. The enrolment date for the programme opens on Monday 2 June at 12 noon

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and features a mix of sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, swim camps, racquet sports, jag tag and pickleball. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to the Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “Summer in the City is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week. I know many parents look forward to the launch of the programme to help get their children out of the house and mixing with friends of a similar age.

Keeping active helps improve our health and wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many find a passion for a new sport or an interest in a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of staying active.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 2 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

Pcitured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig launches the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Summer in the City programme alongside local children. The enrolment date for the programme opens on Monday 2 June at 12 noon

Due to a large third-party event taking place on Monday 21st April there will be general travel disruption in and around Lisburn City Centre from 10.30am onwards.

It is anticipated that traffic will be significantly impacted between 12.30pm and 3pm. Temporary road closures will include Governors Road at both ends, Warren Park and Warren Gardens.

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex will remain open as normal throughout the day; however, it is highly likely that vehicle access and egress will be challenging during these times. This means customers may be unable to leave the Leisure Park by vehicle while road closures are in place.

Customers are recommended to plan their journey to the centre in advance. Any enquiries relating to a booking, please email leisureplex.reception@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.  

For details on session times over Easter and to book, please visit www.theleisureplex.com/book-online

Entries are now open for the 2025 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run! The popular event will take place on Wednesday 18 June starting from Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Attracting over 5,000 participants from across Northern Ireland and beyond, the event remains a firm favourite with running clubs, recreational runners, schools and families.

This year will see the introduction of an exciting new Half Marathon and 10K route which takes in the Eikon Centre site. The ‘Flat & Fast’ course will be a fantastic choice for runners who are looking for a new challenge or striving to achieve a Personal Best time.

For those who just want to run for fun, then the 3K Fun Run is the perfect event to get involved and soak up the atmosphere. Families, schools and youth groups are encouraged to take part and get all ages active together!

All events are inclusive and open to wheelchair and hand cycle participants. Everyone can sign up online from today and avail of an early-bird entry rate until 31st March 2025. Last year’s event sold out so early registration is highly recommended.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Kurtis Dickson said, “The council is delighted to open registrations for the 2025 Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The event has remained a popular fixture for over four decades with runners and the local community supporting the event year on year.

It is a great occasion for people of all ages to come together for a fun evening with friends and family. There is a choice of events to meet your fitness goal so there is no need to worry if this is your first time entering. The atmosphere promises to be amazing with a radio roadshow, music and prize competitions to help get you across the finish line.

I would encourage everyone to sign up today!  Proceeds from the event will support the Mayoral Charity so it’s also a great opportunity to support a worthwhile cause along the way.”

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, added, “We are delighted to introduce changes to the 2025 route which will provide a new traffic free zone through the Eikon Centre and Maze Long Kesk site. This will be an exciting development for the Half Marathon and 10K, providing runners with fantastic conditions to achieve a great finishing time.

The council is delighted to once again sponsor the event through its Vitality Membership package, which highlights the importance of looking after our health and wellbeing through a wide range of activities and sessions.

Participants will also have the option to plant a tree instead of receiving a race t-shirt, through the ‘Ditch the Tee and Plant a Tree’ initiative. This allows those involved to help meet the council’s sustainability objectives and make a lasting contribution to the environment.

“I would like to encourage everyone to sign up today for the Half Marathon, 10K or Fun Run on 18 June and look forward to seeing many of you there on the night.”

For further information or to register for the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race or Fun Run, visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com.

The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 26 February – 26 March at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Events will include Dodgeball on Wednesday 26 February, Pickleball on Wednesday 12 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 26 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues.

Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “I am delighted to welcome the ‘Business Games Challenge’ back for another year of sporting activities. I am particularly pleased to see the introduction of Pickleball for the first time in the event’s history.

The three evenings promise to be great fun with a number of trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

I would encourage all businesses in the council area to sign up today! It is a great opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition and work together as a team. It doesn’t matter if you have never tried a particular sport before, it is more about taking part and having fun!

To register a team, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Fergus Curran and Kathy Tyndall from Design ID who have participated in the 'Business Games Challenge' for the past three years. 

The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 26 February – 26 March at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Events will include Dodgeball on Wednesday 26 February, Pickleball on Wednesday 12 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 26 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues.

Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “I am delighted to welcome the ‘Business Games Challenge’ back for another year of sporting activities. I am particularly pleased to see the introduction of Pickleball for the first time in the event’s history.

The three evenings promise to be great fun with a number of trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

I would encourage all businesses in the council area to sign up today! It is a great opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition and work together as a team. It doesn’t matter if you have never tried a particular sport before, it is more about taking part and having fun!

To register a team, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee with Fergus Curran and Kathy Tyndall from Design ID who have participated in the 'Business Games Challenge' for the past three years. 

The facility includes a full size G.A.A. pitch and two soccer pitches, providing clubs with a state-of-the-art venue for training and matches.

FP McCann commenced construction last year to upgrade the pitch following an investment of £1.7 million by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. Work included replacing the existing Astro Turf Hockey pitch and creating additional car parking - as well as providing floodlighting; fencing; ball catching netting; pedestrian and vehicle access gates; retaining walls and an access path.

The pitch has already attracted bookings from many clubs, in particular Carryduff Colts FC and Carryduff GAA who have supported the council throughout the duration of the project.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “The council is delighted to officially open this fantastic new facility, which will make a real difference to clubs in the Carryduff community. We recognise the importance of offering top quality sporting facilities to provide much needed pitches for training and league fixtures.

Taking part in physical activity has a positive impact on our heath and wellbeing so it is essential that we can support clubs who encourage young people to get involved in sport either competitively or just for fun.

I know that many clubs have been looking forward to playing on the pitch and seeing their dream become a reality. I would like to thank the Carryduff Colts and Carryduff GAC for their involvement with the project from the early days to the official opening today.  I look forward to watching some games over the coming weeks and seeing the pitch in full action!”

Pictured, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee pictured with representatives from Carryduff Colts FC and Carryduff GAA.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has paid tribute to local sporting talent during the 2024 Sports Awards sponsored by Draynes Farm. The annual event took place on Friday 15 November at a prestigious ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

This year’s event shined a light on disability sport with interviews from special guests visually impaired archer, Tony Barclay MBE and disability golfer, Mark Clougherty.

Broadcaster, Claire McCollum hosted the evening and helped showcase the amazing achievements and inspirational stories behind each award winner.

The Sports Awards celebrate the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams from Lisburn & Castlereagh. The event recognises the sporting achievements of both individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contribution as a coach or administrator.

Swimmer, Jessika Robson was named Senior Sports Personality of the Year. This year, Jessika became the youngest swimmer to undertake the North Channel Swim, setting a world record of 11 hours and 46 minutes. She also achieved the Irish Triple Crown and competed in her first year of ice swimming, winning selection to represent Team GB at the International Ice Swimming Championship. Amy Stewart from Lisburn Taekwondo Club was awarded second while Badminton player, Paige Woods collected third place.

Junior Sports Personality of the Year was won by swimmer, Eoghan McQuillan. Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championship where he won an amazing 12 medals, including 7 golds, 1 bronze and 4 relay golds. He was also selected for the Ulster Regional Squad and competed in the Irish Age Group Championship where he became four times Irish champion and nine times Irish medallist. Boxer, Paige Nickels was placed second and trampoline athlete, Jacob Dumigan third.

Skier, Sean McCartan achieved Sports Person with a Disability of the Year. Sean was a member of the Ulster Special Olympics squad that took part in the Irish Winter Games where he came home with a gold medal in the intermediate slalom and a bronze in the intermediate giant slalom. Second place was won by boccia player, Jayne Milligan.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Lisburn & Castlereagh has a proud history of sporting success producing many World, Olympic, Commonwealth, European and National Champions.

“The Council has endeavoured to support these teams and individuals who aspire to reach the highest levels of performance and competition. We have also encouraged greater physical activity in the wider community by delivering programmes to help those wishing to progress in a sport or just take part for the fun and enjoyment.

“Within the Council area, we offer first class facilities for visitors and athletes, including Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl. An exciting new 3G pitch at Lough Moss Leisure Centre will also open shortly followed by the 3G pitch at Laurelhill Sports Zone, which will be exciting development for local sport.

“I would like to congratulate all the award winners for their achievements and to everyone behind the scenes for their commitment to sport. I would like to thank Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh for their continued partnership with the Council and also local company, Draynes Farm, for generously sponsoring the event and acknowledging the important role sport plays in our area.”

Lisburn Distillery Warriors proudly collected Disability Sports Team of the Year. The team currently plays in the Irish FA Disability League 5 aside across two age groups, with the intermediate team proudly lifting the League Cup at the end of the season. Second place was presented to Carryduff GAC All Stars.

Sports Club of the Year was won by Lisburn Cricket Club with Lisburn City Swimming Club taking second place and Jog Moira Running Club third place. Senior Sports Club of the Year was awarded to Lisburn Rugby Club Men’s 1st XI Team with Lisburn Golf Club ‘Ulster Cup Team’ taking second and Rockmount Golf Club Ladies ‘Junior Cup’ Team third.

Pheonix Basketball Club Under 18 Boys’ Team picked up Junior Sports Club Team of the Year and Lisburn Cricket Club U15 Girls’ Team was presented with second place and the Junior Belfast Giants U14 Hockey Team third place. The School Sports Team of the Year was won by Wallace High School Boys’ XI Hockey Team while St Patrick’s Academy Year 11 Gaelic Football Team took second and Laurelhill Community College U15 Boys’ Football Team third place.

Peter Stewart from Lisburn Taekwondo Club was honoured with the Sports Coach of the Year Award for his hard work and dedication developing the club over the last 30 years. Second prize was awarded to Glen Ferguson from the Junior Belfast Giants and third place went to Rachel Irvine from City of Lisburn Salto Gymnastics Club.

The Merit Award was presented to individuals to recognise the essential and valuable service they provide to their clubs in the pursuit of success in their chosen sport. The Alison Slater Junior Merit Award was achieved by Elle Tennyson from Lisburn Rangers Football Club Boys’ Academy, Oscar Hall from the Gymnastics and Trampoline Network and Rheanna McGlinchey from the Carryduff Taekwondo Club.

The David Edwards Senior Merit Award was presented to Glen Culbert from Lisburn Taekwondo Club, Jennifer Thompson of Lisburn Rapid Table Tennis Club and Rob Giles from the Gymnastics and Trampoline Network.

Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added his support for the event, “The Sports Awards is definitely one of the highlights of the year for Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh as it gives us the opportunity to congratulate athletes, teams and coaches for their hard work and dedication in their chosen sport. We hope our nominees will inspire others to participate in sport and help develop sporting talent and healthier lifestyles in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Owen Drayne, Partner at Drayne’s Farm added, “We are always delighted to sponsor the Lisburn and Castlereagh Council Sports Awards and every year the wealth of sporting talent of both local individuals and teams never fails to impress.  As a long-established Lisburn business, Drayne’s Farm is embedded in the community, and it is a pleasure to be involved in recognising the dedication and commitment of all these local winners.”

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

August’s winner was triathlete, Suzanne McConnell. After a complicated kidney transplant that left her with less than 30% kidney function, Suzanne competed in her first British Transplant Games for Northern Ireland just 18 months into her recovery. She started her training this year through the "Introduction to Triathlon for Women" programme, organised by Lisburn Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Team and Triathlon Ireland. Although this was a significant challenge for Suzanne, it ignited her determination to be selected for the British Transplant Games. Suzanne achieved her goal and returned from the games with three medals, a bronze in the cycling time trial, silver in the cycling road race and bronze in the 50m backstroke. Her next goal is to compete in the World Transplant Games in Germany in August 2025.

Runner, Caleb Lewis was awarded September's Sports Personality of the month. At just 15 years old, Caleb represented Northern Ireland and Ulster in the U17 British and Irish Mountain Racing Championships in September 2024, where he placed 17th overall in a highly competitive field. That same month, he set a new course record at the Moira Junior parkrun with an impressive time of 6 minutes and 17 seconds. A dedicated member of Jog Lisburn, Caleb has represented his club at numerous events and regularly attends training. His fellow runners describe him as encouraging to everyone, regardless of their ability. The club is extremely proud of Caleb and thrilled to see his hard work and consistency leading to outstanding results.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please click here.

Pictured L - R: Septembers Sports Personality of the Month winner, Caleb Lewis, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison and Augusts Sports Personality of the Month winner, Suzanne McConnell. 

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

August’s winner was triathlete, Suzanne McConnell. After a complicated kidney transplant that left her with less than 30% kidney function, Suzanne competed in her first British Transplant Games for Northern Ireland just 18 months into her recovery. She started her training this year through the "Introduction to Triathlon for Women" programme, organised by Lisburn Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Team and Triathlon Ireland. Although this was a significant challenge for Suzanne, it ignited her determination to be selected for the British Transplant Games. Suzanne achieved her goal and returned from the games with three medals, a bronze in the cycling time trial, silver in the cycling road race and bronze in the 50m backstroke. Her next goal is to compete in the World Transplant Games in Germany in August 2025.

Runner, Caleb Lewis was awarded September's Sports Personality of the month. At just 15 years old, Caleb represented Northern Ireland and Ulster in the U17 British and Irish Mountain Racing Championships in September 2024, where he placed 17th overall in a highly competitive field. That same month, he set a new course record at the Moira Junior parkrun with an impressive time of 6 minutes and 17 seconds. A dedicated member of Jog Lisburn, Caleb has represented his club at numerous events and regularly attends training. His fellow runners describe him as encouraging to everyone, regardless of their ability. The club is extremely proud of Caleb and thrilled to see his hard work and consistency leading to outstanding results.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please click here.

Pictured L - R: Septembers Sports Personality of the Month winner, Caleb Lewis, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison and Augusts Sports Personality of the Month winner, Suzanne McConnell. 

Party fun will be in full flow next week as Lagan Valley LeisurePlex celebrates its 25th anniversary. The special milestone will see a 3-day extravaganza from Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th October.

Customers are invited to come along to the themed celebration, ‘Party like it’s 1999’, which will include a schedule of retro events and mega prize giveaways. There will also be DJ entertainment and a host of special guests for the ultimate party atmosphere.

The birthday celebrations will kick off on Thursday 10 October with an energy packed Leisure Pool Party between 6pm and 8.45pm. Customers can make a splash down the longest and fastest water slides while partying the session away with our resident DJ. There will also be prize giveaways, face painting and a special appearance from Moana, Stitch and Jack Sparrow.

Two exciting events will come to the main hall on Friday 11 October. Children can bounce into the family fun session from 6.30pm with energy packed inflatables, face painting and party balloon modelling. Party goers can also choose to get their skates on at a retro roller disco from 7.00-8.00pm.  90’s stars Barbie and Ken will make an appearance and might even join in the fun!

The final day culminates with a big Super Saturday event on 12th October. The fun packed day starts with a baby disco in the Lazy River where little ones can join a parent or guardian for baby themed songs and lots of splashes.  What’s more every baby taking part will receive their own rubber duck to take home.

The fun in the Leisure Pool continues from 11am where customers will have the chance to win a goody bag if they find a special hidden golden coin in the water! The Cool FM Roadshow will be whipping up party tracks live in the centre from 12.00 noon – 5.00pm for an amazing party experience   Popular 90’s Toy Story characters will be there from 11.00 – 4.00pm along with a fabulous selfie mirror, face painting, party balloons and much more!

Throughout Saturday, there will be lots of chances to spin a prize wheel and win a selection of fantastic prizes, from panto tickets to an overnight stay at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing said, “Lagan Valley LeisurePlex has proudly served customers from the Lisburn and Castlereagh area and across Northern Ireland over the last 25 years. The centre has made a real difference to people’s lives by helping them improve their health and fitness through a wide choice of classes, gym and pool facilities. It has also helped families looking for great value days out by offering the hugely popular Leisure Pool and Mission Inflatable sessions.

We are delighted to now celebrate the facilities 25th birthday with a massive 3-day event programme.  There is an amazing schedule of activities to get into the party spirit so there will be a real buzz across the centre.

Those who enjoy classes should check out our timetable of throwback retro classes for a classic 1990’s vibe. Families can also book a host of party sessions in the Leisure Pool along with a roller disco and inflatable party so you will certainly be spoilt for choice. What’s more customers can also come along in their favourite 90’s fashion to capture the era in style!”

“There is also some amazing prizes to be won on the Saturday and I would like to thank the many local businesses who have contributed to our spin the wheel competition. We really appreciate your support and look forward to celebrating our special birthday with our customers”, added Councillor Craig.

For further information on the 25th celebration event and to book a session, click here. 

Sports clubs and coaches are kicking off the new season by signing up to the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council coach education programme. The specialised training courses offer a valuable opportunity for clubs to develop their skills and get the best out of their athletes, players and administrators.

The new timetable runs from October through to March and includes 20 courses, which are conveniently delivered across multiple locations and online. Course topics include Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, First Aid in Sport and Safeguarding to name but a few of the courses available.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Alderman Hazel Legge, Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “We have many great clubs in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area whose continuing success is very much down to the ability and commitment of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.

The wide selection of courses available on the coach education programme will help these clubs increase their skills and knowledge in key areas throughout the sporting calendar. Courses are available online and in person making it easy for everyone to access a programme to suit their schedule.”

“I hope the Coach Education programme will inspire clubs to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment to get the best of of their players and athletes at grassroot level. Those interested can find out more by going online and having a look at the great value training courses on offer,” added Alderman Legge.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/sports-training-courses-and-events#training-courses-for-sports-clubs-and-coaches

Photo Caption- Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Alderman Hazel Legge launch the Council’s Coach Education Programme alongside Belfast Giants Assistant Coach, George Awada; NI Powerlifting Federation Coach, Jonathan Ferguson; Salto Gymnastic Coach, Eve McGibbon and the Council’s Sports Development Team, Kevin Madden and Owen Madine.

Sports clubs and coaches are kicking off the new season by signing up to the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council coach education programme. The specialised training courses offer a valuable opportunity for clubs to develop their skills and get the best out of their athletes, players and administrators.

The new timetable runs from October through to March and includes 20 courses, which are conveniently delivered across multiple locations and online. Course topics include Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, First Aid in Sport and Safeguarding to name but a few of the courses available.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Alderman Hazel Legge, Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “We have many great clubs in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area whose continuing success is very much down to the ability and commitment of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.

The wide selection of courses available on the coach education programme will help these clubs increase their skills and knowledge in key areas throughout the sporting calendar. Courses are available online and in person making it easy for everyone to access a programme to suit their schedule.”

“I hope the Coach Education programme will inspire clubs to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment to get the best of of their players and athletes at grassroot level. Those interested can find out more by going online and having a look at the great value training courses on offer,” added Alderman Legge.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/sports-training-courses-and-events#training-courses-for-sports-clubs-and-coaches

Photo Caption- Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Alderman Hazel Legge launch the Council’s Coach Education Programme alongside Belfast Giants Assistant Coach, George Awada; NI Powerlifting Federation Coach, Jonathan Ferguson; Salto Gymnastic Coach, Eve McGibbon and the Council’s Sports Development Team, Kevin Madden and Owen Madine.

Six nations will go head-to-head this weekend as Northern Ireland proudly hosts the prestigious Vitality Membership Adult Triple Crown Tenpin Bowling Tournament. The competition will be held from Friday 20th – 22nd September at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

This international competition will see teams from Northern Ireland, England, Gibraltar, Ireland, Scotland and Wales compete for the accolade of the Triple Crown title. Medals will be awarded across several major events, including Singles, Doubles, Trios, Mixed Doubles and Team competitions. Bowlers will earn valuable points across each discipline which will ultimately lead the winning nation to lift the eagerly contested Triple Crown Trophy.

Attending the opening ceremony, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Kurtis Dickson, said, “I am delighted to welcome teams and their supporters from across the six nations to our fantastic facilities here at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. It is very exciting to see the quality of the bowling taking place and I know we are in for a closely contended competition.

“I would encourage customers to come along and watch the action at some stage over the weekend. It is a great way to see the nation’s leading bowlers first hand and maybe pick up a few hints along the way.”

“I hope all the teams and supporters enjoy the competition and I look forward to meeting everyone over the course of the tournament,” concluded Mayor Dickson.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “It is a great honour to host the Vitality Membership Adult Triple Crown at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The facility has a proud history of staging prestigious events over the last 38 years so we are very excited to add another major bowling event to our sporting calendar.

I would like to thank the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation for organising the tournament as I know many months have gone into planning an event of this scale. I would also like to extend thanks to the staff at Dundonald International Ice Bowl for the work behind the scenes in preparation for the tournament.”

“I hope the teams enjoy visiting Northern Ireland and the superb leisure facilities we have here in Lisburn and Castlereagh,” added Councillor Craig.

Grant Dugan, President of the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation said, “We’ve been looking forward to once again hosting the Adult Triple Crown here at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and putting on a spectacle for both the competitors and supporters to enjoy. A great few days of exciting competition is instore, that I can promise you! 

On behalf of the Federation, I would like to express my thanks to Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council for agreeing to host and support the event. Thanks also go to all the staff involved within Dundonald International Ice Bowl in helping us with all the preparations over the last number of months. The facility is looking fantastic, and the lanes are in great condition for the tournament.

I encourage everyone to come along and watch the ‘striking’ action if you have some ‘spare’ time and cheer us on!”

The aim of the awards is to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

Sponsored by Draynes Farm, the awards evening will take place at a ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 15 November. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2024 Sports Awards, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is an opportunity to celebrate the diverse range of sports making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have a proud history of sporting success with athletes and teams representing the council area in local and international competitions.

“This year’s awards ceremony will focus on athletes with a disability, which showcases the fantastic achievements and dedication of our sportsmen and women across many disciplines. I know their success, along with the amazing 2024 Paralympic Games, will inspire the next generation to get involved in sport either recreationally or competitively.

I am particularly looking forward to hearing from our special guests visually impaired archer Tony Barclay MBE and disability golfer Mark Clougherty who have achieved great success in their sporting careers.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Monday 30th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to take the time to nominate an individual, club or school whose achievements might otherwise go unnoticed”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I am aware of the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week in pursuit of excellence in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Draynes Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online by clicking here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

The closing date for applications is strictly Monday 30th September 2024 at 5pm.

 Pictured L – R: Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Tony Barclay MBE, Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh and Mark Clougherty. 

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

The June Sports Personality of the Month was presented to Taekwondoin James Nicholson who had an outstanding performance at the Wales International Open and Welsh National Championships. James achieved a haul of medals by picking up a fantastic gold in the individual event, silver in the team event and a bronze in the pairs. Remarkably, James is the only person to hold all five national titles in Northern Ireland, including British, Scottish, Welsh, Irish and Northern Irish titles. His gold medal win has also put him in a strong position to gain selection for the Taekwondo World Championships in Hong Kong this November.

Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan was awarded July Sports Personality of the Month. Jacob competed in the FIG 13-14 boys’ category, which is the highest level for his age in both trampoline and double mini trampoline (DMT). In June, Jacob had a busy month, competing in the NI Championships and then placing 4th in trampoline and 3rd in DMT at the British National Age Group Qualifier. Jacob then represented Northern Ireland at the Scalabis Cup in Portugal, an international event with competitors from 28 countries. Jacob made it to the trampoline finals, finishing 8th and placing 13th in DMT. He is the first in his club to compete internationally in DMT, reach an international trampoline final and qualify for British Age Group competitions.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustandseptember24/

Pictured - Junes Sports Personality of the Month winner, Taekwondoin, James Nicholson

Pictured - Julys Sports Personality of the month winner, Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

The June Sports Personality of the Month was presented to Taekwondoin James Nicholson who had an outstanding performance at the Wales International Open and Welsh National Championships. James achieved a haul of medals by picking up a fantastic gold in the individual event, silver in the team event and a bronze in the pairs. Remarkably, James is the only person to hold all five national titles in Northern Ireland, including British, Scottish, Welsh, Irish and Northern Irish titles. His gold medal win has also put him in a strong position to gain selection for the Taekwondo World Championships in Hong Kong this November.

Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan was awarded July Sports Personality of the Month. Jacob competed in the FIG 13-14 boys’ category, which is the highest level for his age in both trampoline and double mini trampoline (DMT). In June, Jacob had a busy month, competing in the NI Championships and then placing 4th in trampoline and 3rd in DMT at the British National Age Group Qualifier. Jacob then represented Northern Ireland at the Scalabis Cup in Portugal, an international event with competitors from 28 countries. Jacob made it to the trampoline finals, finishing 8th and placing 13th in DMT. He is the first in his club to compete internationally in DMT, reach an international trampoline final and qualify for British Age Group competitions.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustandseptember24/

Pictured - Junes Sports Personality of the Month winner,Taekwondoin, James Nicholson

Pictured - Julys Sports Personality of the month winner, Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan

Delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the programme provided over 2,000 places to get children active over the holidays.

This year children had the opportunity to explore the exciting world of sports through an extensive range of camps and classes. Sports included golf, jag tag, racquets, basketball, goal keeping, swimming and Gaelic football to name but a few of the fantastic courses which were on offer.

In addition to the camps, children enjoyed a choice of fun filled summer activity schemes delivered across the council’s leisure facilities. Many of these schemes also offered outings each week, which provided excellent value for money.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “It is fantastic to see so many smiling children enjoying the wide range of activities available through our Summer in the City programme. 

“We recognise the valuable support that summer schemes and sports camps offer parents over the school holidays and the importance of getting children active for their health and wellbeing. Activity schemes also provide a fantastic opportunity for children to make new friendships, particularly during school holidays, which helps improve their confidence and social skills.

“The Council strives to assist as many families as possible by providing a wide range of summer activity options.  This year we also offered a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities were designed to ensure that all children, regardless of their ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.”

“I hope all the children enjoyed their summer and I look forward to welcoming them back to the centre again either visiting with their family or a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the programme provided over 2,000 places to get children active over the holidays.

This year children had the opportunity to explore the exciting world of sports through an extensive range of camps and classes. Sports included golf, jag tag, racquets, basketball, goal keeping, swimming and Gaelic football to name but a few of the fantastic courses which were on offer.

In addition to the camps, children enjoyed a choice of fun filled summer activity schemes delivered across the council’s leisure facilities. Many of these schemes also offered outings each week, which provided excellent value for money.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “It is fantastic to see so many smiling children enjoying the wide range of activities available through our Summer in the City programme. 

“We recognise the valuable support that summer schemes and sports camps offer parents over the school holidays and the importance of getting children active for their health and wellbeing. Activity schemes also provide a fantastic opportunity for children to make new friendships, particularly during school holidays, which helps improve their confidence and social skills.

“The Council strives to assist as many families as possible by providing a wide range of summer activity options.  This year we also offered a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities were designed to ensure that all children, regardless of their ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.”

“I hope all the children enjoyed their summer and I look forward to welcoming them back to the centre again either visiting with their family or a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Four young bowlers are enjoying their final training preparations before heading to the prestigious Youth Triple Crown Tenpin Bowling Championships.  The team will have the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the championships in Dublin this week.

The bowlers who are aged 12 – 15 years started their sporting journey on the popular ‘Learn to Bowl’ programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The six-week course was delivered by coaches from the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation (NITBF) and helped young people discover a passion and skill for tenpin bowling.

Meeting the Northern Ireland team, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Dundonald International Ice Bowl has a proud history of sporting success, so it is fantastic to support these young bowlers as they head off for their first competition.

Programmes like the Learn to Bowl sessions play an important role in nurturing home-grown talent. Many of these young people had only previously bowled with family and friends but thanks to the expert coaching from the NITBF they now have the skills and confidence to progress in the sport.

Sport plays such an important role bringing young people together to take part a positive activity which promotes teamwork and self-esteem. I would like to wish the team every success as they head off to the tournament today. Representing your country is a proud moment and I look forward to hearing about the experience on your return.”

NITBF President, Grant Dugan added, “We’re thrilled to be in a position to once again send a youth team to compete, after an absence of over 20 years. The Vitality Membership package has helped increase the interest and numbers in the sport especially amongst the youth members. This combined with our new development programme has seen these talented youth bowlers excel and we are excited to see the results they are capable of producing at this year’s Youth Triple Crown.

We wish them all the best for the tournament competing against other youth bowlers from England, Iceland, Ireland and Scotland this week.”

Adrenaline levels soared as over forty young people slid into action for an energy packed ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The camp is part of the highly successful HEROS cross-community programme that uses ice hockey to inspire and motivate participants. 

Now in its 16th year, the programme brings together young people from Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood, Swords & Finglas in Dublin. During the week, the group received international coaching from Canadian hockey players then had the opportunity to test their skills in a big game on the final evening.

The HEROS programme was developed by the youth partners; Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, along with the international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada.

This highly successful model was first established in Canada and has helped develop life skills and empower over 17,000 young people since it started in 2000. This success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the HEROS programme.

Dropping the puck at the final game, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “This is the 16th year, council has hosted the HEROS programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The initiative has always been a huge success and has been met with such enthusiasm and commitment.

It was fantastic to see so many young people taking part in the big game tonight to showcase their new skills in front of family and friends. Many of the participants have only started skating for the first time while others are returning to programme in a leadership capacity.

“Sport plays an important role in bringing young people together to take part in positive activity which promotes a culture of teamwork and understanding for one another. I would like to thank the organisers and Canadian HEROS volunteers for delivering such an innovative programme which will hopefully have a major impact on the lives of participants as they apply their new skills and experiences off the ice.”

On behalf of the youth partners, Natalie Trainor added, “The programme works towards giving young people a unique opportunity to learn and develop life skills in ice hockey while developing aspirations for themselves and building relationships between young people from different backgrounds. 

“The programme has been running for 16 years and we are delighted to celebrate the talent, friendships and skills being developed as a result of the programme.  We hope that every young person gains from the experience and takes away positive messages from this unique project.”

Work is underway to develop a new full size 3G soccer pitch at Laurelhill Sports Zone. The construction of the pitch has commenced, following £1.7 million investment from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2025 and will see the creation of one new 3G pitch and additional parking, which will complement the existing synthetic hockey pitch currently on site.

The improved facility will be used by both Laurelhill Community College and Killowen Primary School as part of their curriculum. The wider community can also book the pitch outside of term time as well as at evenings and weekends.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “The council is pleased to invest in another open space project to offer both local schools and the community access to quality sporting facilities.

The soccer pitch will provide valuable grounds for the schools to offer PE sessions and after school activities, which will hopefully inspire an interest in the sport at grassroots level.

Sports clubs, youth groups and friends can also access the pitch, outside of school hours, providing a fantastic community hub for everyone to enjoy.

Taking part in physical activity is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing therefore the new pitch will offer a fun way to get everyone moving together.

I look forward to visiting the facility once the project is completed to see many goals being scored.”

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh is celebrating the remarkable achievements of two young athletes who excelled in their sport in April and May.

With the generous support of new sponsor Vitality Membership, the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee select a winner each month to receive a £100 cheque as a token of recognition for their outstanding performance.

The Sports Personality of the Month award honours the hard work and dedication of local sports stars that reside in the Council area.

Judo player Kirsten Millar has been named Sports Personality of the Month for April. An international competitor and member of the NI Performance Programme, Kirsten trains three mornings a week in Jordanstown alongside her three weekly club sessions with Simply Judo. In April, she had the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Championships in Malta, where she delivered an outstanding performance, earning silver medals in both the Junior and Senior categories. Kirsten’s impressive achievements also include being the runner-up for Junior Sports Personality of the Year at the 2023 Draynes Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards.

Eoghan McQuillan has been named Sports Personality of the Month for May. Representing Lisburn City Swimming Club, Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championships held at Bangor Aurora Aquatic Centre. Over three days of intense competition, he swam 19 races, including heats and finals, and won an impressive 12 medals: 7 individual golds, 1 individual bronze and 4 relay team golds. His outstanding performance also earned him the prestigious Elizabeth Long Trophy, awarded to the best 12-year-old swimmer at the meet, an honour previously held by Northern Irish Olympians Danielle Hill and Syrecka McMahon. This award is a testament to Eoghan’s dedication and commitment to his training, which totals 12 hours each week.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthjuneandjuly24/

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Aprils Sports Personality of the month winner, Kirsten Millar.

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Mays Sports Personality of the month winner, Eoghan McQuillan.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh is celebrating the remarkable achievements of two young athletes who excelled in their sport in April and May.

With the generous support of new sponsor Vitality Membership, the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee select a winner each month to receive a £100 cheque as a token of recognition for their outstanding performance.

The Sports Personality of the Month award honours the hard work and dedication of local sports stars that reside in the Council area.

Judo player Kirsten Millar has been named Sports Personality of the Month for April. An international competitor and member of the NI Performance Programme, Kirsten trains three mornings a week in Jordanstown alongside her three weekly club sessions with Simply Judo. In April, she had the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Championships in Malta, where she delivered an outstanding performance, earning silver medals in both the Junior and Senior categories. Kirsten’s impressive achievements also include being the runner-up for Junior Sports Personality of the Year at the 2023 Draynes Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards.

Eoghan McQuillan has been named Sports Personality of the Month for May. Representing Lisburn City Swimming Club, Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championships held at Bangor Aurora Aquatic Centre. Over three days of intense competition, he swam 19 races, including heats and finals, and won an impressive 12 medals: 7 individual golds, 1 individual bronze and 4 relay team golds. His outstanding performance also earned him the prestigious Elizabeth Long Trophy, awarded to the best 12-year-old swimmer at the meet, an honour previously held by Northern Irish Olympians Danielle Hill and Syrecka McMahon. This award is a testament to Eoghan’s dedication and commitment to his training, which totals 12 hours each week.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthjuneandjuly24/

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Aprils Sports Personality of the month winner, Kirsten Millar.

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Mays Sports Personality of the month winner, Eoghan McQuillan.

Over 5000 runners descended to the start line to take part in the 2024 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The popular event returned to the streets of Lisburn on Wednesday 19 June.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the sellout event saw competitive runners, families and schools take on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

This year also heralded a new sponsorship area which attracted amazing giveaways from Coca-Cola, MB Chicken and Fulfil. There were also carnival games along with music from Cool FM for a superb atmosphere.

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with Gillian McCrory taking top honours in the women’s Half Marathon with a time of 1.25.08, while Sarah McNutt took a well-deserved second spot and Leann Gibson third. In the men’s Half Marathon, Eskander Turki made it on to the podium in first place in an impressive time of 1.09.31, with Conor Gallagher taking second place and Adam Smyth finishing a strong third.

In the 10K Wheelchair race, Jim Corbett finished in first place with a time of 33.48 and Jane Bleakley was placed highest finishing female.

Hannah Gilliland crossed the finish line in first place in the women’s 10K in 35.40, followed by Elisoa Crawford in second and Nicola Black in third place. In the men's 10K, Brandon McKeown clocked up a first place with a quick time of 34.09, closely followed by Ciaran McKendry in second place and Ronan McAree in third.

The Fun Run was keenly contended with Anna Kelly picking up first place in the female event, followed by Upe Speiskaite in second and Isla Wiltshire in third place. The male Fun Run event was proudly won by Caleb Lewis who excelled to first place. Second place was won by Ashton Cusick and third place Conall Kelly.

Starting the Half Marathon event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Kurtis Dickson said, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for over four decades. This year we were delighted to record one of our highest entry numbers which shows the popularity of the event with runners, families and schools.

We are proud that the event has now grown to become one of Northern Ireland’s largest running events. Many participants come back year on year, while there are some who have run tonight for the very first time.

“I was honoured to meet so many people around the course earlier when completing in the Fun Run, which was such a great atmosphere and lots of fun. You should be very proud of your achievement and hopefully it will be the start of many more runs to come!”

“I would like to thank everyone for supporting the event and helping to raise donations for my Mayoral Charity, Emerge Counselling Services”, concluded Mayor Dickson

The Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig added “The Council is pleased to once again organise this great event and inspire people to come together to get active.

We have a proud history of sporting success and I am delighted that we can continue to organise an event of this scale which is both accessible and enjoyable for everyone. 

I would like to thank the council for supporting the event in partnership with their Vitality Membership package which encourages people to get active through the many classes and activities on offer.

I would also like to thank Coca-Cola, MB Chicken and Fulfil for their support.  They have offered some amazing giveaways for runners to enjoy when they crossed the finish line. It was also fantastic to watch families taking on the challenge of the carnival games, which added to the atmosphere.”

To view photographs from the event, please visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com or check out the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, Beactivelisburncastlereagh. 

Moneyreagh Community Centre has launched a timetable of new fitness classes as part of the popular Vitality membership programme. Classes commence on 1st July and can be booked online up to 7 days in advance for members and 2 days for non-members.

The sessions will offer residents in the Moneyreagh area access to a choice of classes for adults and children. Customers can pay casually or become a Vitality member, which allows their household entry to seven fantastic leisure facilities.

Adult classes are the perfect opportunity for customers to try a new activity or set a new fitness goal. The initial timetable includes spin, circuits, Pilates, barre fusion and pickleball sessions. There are also classes specifically tailored for families with parent and baby circuits, parent & baby legs, bums & tums, and family fun sessions.

Launching the new timetable, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “The Vitality Membership package has been an overwhelming success with over 17,000 members currently enjoying the extensive range of gym, swimming and fitness sessions on offer across our leisure facilities. Households have also benefited from much valued family time with a choice of skating, bowling and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and the popular Leisure Pool, Mission Inflatable and kids classes at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

We are now delighted to extend the Vitality membership programme to Moneyreagh Community Centre to allow residents access to classes on their doorstep. There are sessions for families and individuals so it’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone active together.

We hope the community enjoy the timetable as it continues to roll out over the summer and that it will inspire people to try something new.”

To book a class at Moneyreagh Community Centre, please visit www.theicebowl.com or download the Vitality Member App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Classes are available to book from 24 June. Members can book up to 7 days in advance for members and non-members 2 days in advance.

Pictured, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig with local resident, Luke McCallum.

Moneyreagh Community Centre has launched a timetable of new fitness classes as part of the popular Vitality membership programme. Classes commence on 1st July and can be booked online up to 7 days in advance for members and 2 days for non-members.

The sessions will offer residents in the Moneyreagh area access to a choice of classes for adults and children. Customers can pay casually or become a Vitality member, which allows their household entry to seven fantastic leisure facilities.

Adult classes are the perfect opportunity for customers to try a new activity or set a new fitness goal. The initial timetable includes spin, circuits, Pilates, barre fusion and pickleball sessions. There are also classes specifically tailored for families with parent and baby circuits, parent & baby legs, bums & tums, and family fun sessions.

Launching the new timetable, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “The Vitality Membership package has been an overwhelming success with over 17,000 members currently enjoying the extensive range of gym, swimming and fitness sessions on offer across our leisure facilities. Households have also benefited from much valued family time with a choice of skating, bowling and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and the popular Leisure Pool, Mission Inflatable and kids classes at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

We are now delighted to extend the Vitality membership programme to Moneyreagh Community Centre to allow residents access to classes on their doorstep. There are sessions for families and individuals so it’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone active together.

We hope the community enjoy the timetable as it continues to roll out over the summer and that it will inspire people to try something new.”

To book a class at Moneyreagh Community Centre, please visit www.theicebowl.com or download the Vitality Member App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Classes are available to book from 24 June. Members can book up to 7 days in advance for members and non-members 2 days in advance.

Pictured, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig with local resident, Luke McCallum.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has opened applications for the second year of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund to provide much needed financial support to local sports clubs.  Up to £3,000 is available exclusively for sports organisations to help meet the costs associated with their development.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs with tangible benefits including sports equipment, small scale improvements to grounds, specialised equipment, club development officer funding, one off sports festival events and coach education training.

The fund is aimed at sports clubs located within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area who are affiliated to both a National Governing Body as well as their local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Launching the second phase of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the financial pressures sports clubs face as they deliver their programme of activities and events within the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. We are pleased again to have the opportunity to provide valuable support to eligible clubs through this scheme.

“Sport plays a crucial role in helping communities get active and has a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health. Clubs are located at the heart of our communities therefore they offer a lifeline to their members in terms of engagement in regular activity as well as forming a sense of belonging and resilience.”

The closing date for applications is Friday 23rd August. To apply online and read a copy of the guidance notes, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportsacceleratorfund2024/

If you have any queries after reading the online application, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden and representatives from local sports clubs. 

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has opened applications for the second year of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund to provide much needed financial support to local sports clubs.  Up to £3,000 is available exclusively for sports organisations to help meet the costs associated with their development.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs with tangible benefits including sports equipment, small scale improvements to grounds, specialised equipment, club development officer funding, one off sports festival events and coach education training.

The fund is aimed at sports clubs located within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area who are affiliated to both a National Governing Body as well as their local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Launching the second phase of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the financial pressures sports clubs face as they deliver their programme of activities and events within the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. We are pleased again to have the opportunity to provide valuable support to eligible clubs through this scheme.

“Sport plays a crucial role in helping communities get active and has a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health. Clubs are located at the heart of our communities therefore they offer a lifeline to their members in terms of engagement in regular activity as well as forming a sense of belonging and resilience.”

The closing date for applications is Friday 23rd August. To apply online and read a copy of the guidance notes, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportsacceleratorfund2024/

If you have any queries after reading the online application, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden and representatives from local sports clubs. 

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex was delighted to welcome 22 schools from across the council area to compete in the annual Lisburn & Castlereagh Primary Schools Swimming Gala on Friday 24th May 2024.

The long-established event was held over two sessions and saw over 300 children compete in P4 – P5 and P6 – P7 categories, continuing to make it one of the largest galas held in Northern Ireland. Swimming disciplines included backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle as well as the highly competitive relay races.

During the event, the P4 – P5 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Jack McCluskey from Meadowbridge Primary School while the P6 – P7 Award was presented to Molly Dowling from Brownlee Primary School.

The P4 – P5 freestyle relay was won by St Aloysius Primary School with Friends’ Prep achieving a well-deserved 2nd place and St Jospeh’s Primary School achieving 3rd place. In the afternoon session, Friends’ Prep picked up 1st place in the P6 freestyle relay with St Aloysuis Primary School securing 2nd place and St Joseph’s Primary School claiming 3rd place.

Downshire Primary School achieved 1st place in the P6-P7 medley relay, with Pond Park Primary School a close second followed by St Joseph’s Primary in 3rd place.

Friends Prep secured a successful first place in the overall schools event, taking home the prestigious champion’s title.  Second prize was closely contended by Pond Park Primary School with Downshire Primary School achieving 3rd place.

Presenting the morning session medals, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “It is encouraging to see so many children taking part in this year’s swimming gala. The event is a great opportunity to experience the fun of competitive swimming, while still enjoying being part of a school team.  It is fantastic to see the friendships and positive team spirit amongst all the children and I hope the event will encourage many more to take up the sport recreationally or competitively.”

The Mayor added, “I would like to thank the volunteers from SERC Lisburn for their amazing job helping with the timekeeping. Also thank you to all the teachers and children for supporting the gala and helping to maintain the wonderful tradition of Primary School swimming in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Children taking part in the afternoon session were presented their medals by Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee. Councillor Beckett commented, “The swimming gala provides a fantastic opportunity for children to develop their teamwork skills and stay active as part of their school week.

Swimming is a life skill, so it is important to encourage children to learn to swim, improve their technique and build their confidence in the water.  While the swimming gala encourages children to strive for a medal, the overall message is about participation and cheering on every pupil until they cross the finishing line.

I would like to thank the staff at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for organising such a successful event and look forward to building on the success again next year.”

The P4 – P5 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Jack McCluskey from Meadowbridge Primary School presented by Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Andrew Gowan.

The P6 – P7 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Molly Dowling from Brownlee Primary School, by Suzi Lee, winner of BBC’s Best Home Cook Show.

The P4 – P5 freestyle relay was won by St Aloysius Primary School with Friends’ Prep achieving a well-deserved 2nd place and St Jospeh’s Primary School achieving 3rd place.

Friends’ Prep picked up 1st place in the P6 freestyle relay with St Aloysuis Primary School securing 2nd place and St Joseph’s Primary School claiming 3rd place, presented by Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee. 

Downshire Primary School achieved 1st place in the medley relay, with Pond Park Primary School a close second followed by St Joseph’s Primary in 3rd place.

Children from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are preparing for a summer of fun as the council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme launches on Monday 3 June at 12 noon.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and includes sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, basketball, Gaelic football, swim camps, racquet sports, goalkeeping and jag tag. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having a fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, " The ‘Summer in the City’ programme is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week.  I know many parents eagerly look forward to the launch of the programme to ensure their children maintain a structured routine, while mixing with other children during July and August.

“Keeping active helps improve our health and mental wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many will find a love for a new sport or develop a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of physical activity.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 3 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

 Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with local children. 

Children from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are preparing for a summer of fun as the council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme launches on Monday 3 June at 12 noon.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and includes sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, basketball, Gaelic football, swim camps, racquet sports, goalkeeping and jag tag. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having a fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, " The ‘Summer in the City’ programme is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week.  I know many parents eagerly look forward to the launch of the programme to ensure their children maintain a structured routine, while mixing with other children during July and August.

“Keeping active helps improve our health and mental wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many will find a love for a new sport or develop a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of physical activity.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 3 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

 Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with local children. 

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award for February & March.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for February was Taekwondoin, Laura Burns. Laura has achieved a 4th Dan Kokkinos recognised Black Belt Dan Grade and has devoted 18 years to the Lisburn Taekwondo Club. Over a decade, she has progressed from provisional judge to class 1 by demonstrating her expertise at competitions across the UK and earning points to excel through the judging classes. Recognising her talent, the World Taekwondo Referee Department invited Laura to attend the International Poomsae Referee course in Manchester, England from 7th to 12th February. Laura has succeeded in the course and now proudly holds the title of a qualified International Referee for Great Britain, making her just the third female, and second in Northern Ireland, among the 17 UK international referees.

Triathlete, John Jackson was March Sports Personality of the Month. His recent success came at the Triathlon Ireland National Series Duathlon Race, held at Down Royal Racecourse on March 24th. Out of 63 competitors, John secured an impressive second place, completing the race in just 50 minutes and 11 seconds. This triumph adds to his accolades, as he previously represented Ireland at the European Sprint Triathlon Championships in 2023, held in Madrid, Spain.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaprilandmay24  Nominations close on Friday 31st May 2024 at 5pm

 Pictured L – R: Laura Burns, Lee Aston, Decathlon Belfast Sports Department Manager, John Jackson and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for December 2023 and January 2024 highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for December was female archer, Erin Lunney. At just 13 years old, Erin's talent in archery is nothing short of exceptional. Over the course of December and January, she left an indelible mark on the sport by setting three UK Records, duly recognised by Archery GB. Remarkably, Erin now holds the U18 & U21 Recurve Women Double Portsmouth titles, along with the U18 Recurve Women Portsmouth, showcasing her unparalleled skill and dedication. Her journey into archery commenced through the Vitality Leisure Programme at Kilmakee Activity Centre in 2022, where her talent was evident from the outset. Erin is part of a group of five budding archers, including one para-archer, who all found their passion for the sport at Kilmakee Activity Centre and have since been selected to the prestigious NI Archery Academy. Transitioning to Lisburn Archery Club in late 2022 marked another milestone for Erin, propelling her onto the national stage. Her inclusion in the Archery GB National Talent Development Programme speaks volumes about her potential, underscored by her current title as the U14 Northern Ireland Champion.

U18 Basketball player, Fiontan Rogers was Januarys Sports Personality of the Month. Standing tall at 6’5”, Fiontan commands the court as a forward for the Phoenix Basketball Club's U18 Boys team, based at Lisburn Racquets Club. His standout moment came on January 19th when he and his Phoenix teammates clinched victory in the Irish U18 National Cup, a prestigious achievement that solidified their status as the top junior basketball team in Ireland. Fiontan's impact was felt throughout the tournament, notably in the semi-final matchup against the pre-tournament favourites, Galway Titans, where he led the scoring with an impressive 20 points. In the final showdown at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin, Fiontan continued his stellar performance, contributing 17 crucial points to secure an exhilarating 82-80 win over the Dublin Lions. His exceptional play was instrumental in Phoenix's success, particularly noteworthy considering the rarity of Northern Irish teams competing at this level in the U18 National Cup. Fiontan's all-star performances did not go unnoticed, as he was selected as part of the 25-man U18 International Squad announced by Basketball Ireland.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, "The depth of sporting talent discovered within our council area remains truly remarkable. This month, we are proud to honour both an accomplished Archer champion and a standout Basketball Ireland player. Both teens should be extremely proud of their achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthfebmarch24/ Nominations close on Friday 5th April 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Roy Skillen, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee Member, Erin Lunney, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fiontan Rogers and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for December 2023 and January 2024 highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for December was female archer, Erin Lunney. At just 13 years old, Erin's talent in archery is nothing short of exceptional. Over the course of December and January, she left an indelible mark on the sport by setting three UK Records, duly recognised by Archery GB. Remarkably, Erin now holds the U18 & U21 Recurve Women Double Portsmouth titles, along with the U18 Recurve Women Portsmouth, showcasing her unparalleled skill and dedication. Her journey into archery commenced through the Vitality Leisure Programme at Kilmakee Activity Centre in 2022, where her talent was evident from the outset. Erin is part of a group of five budding archers, including one para-archer, who all found their passion for the sport at Kilmakee Activity Centre and have since been selected to the prestigious NI Archery Academy. Transitioning to Lisburn Archery Club in late 2022 marked another milestone for Erin, propelling her onto the national stage. Her inclusion in the Archery GB National Talent Development Programme speaks volumes about her potential, underscored by her current title as the U14 Northern Ireland Champion.

U18 Basketball player, Fiontan Rogers was Januarys Sports Personality of the Month. Standing tall at 6’5”, Fiontan commands the court as a forward for the Phoenix Basketball Club's U18 Boys team, based at Lisburn Racquets Club. His standout moment came on January 19th when he and his Phoenix teammates clinched victory in the Irish U18 National Cup, a prestigious achievement that solidified their status as the top junior basketball team in Ireland. Fiontan's impact was felt throughout the tournament, notably in the semi-final matchup against the pre-tournament favourites, Galway Titans, where he led the scoring with an impressive 20 points. In the final showdown at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin, Fiontan continued his stellar performance, contributing 17 crucial points to secure an exhilarating 82-80 win over the Dublin Lions. His exceptional play was instrumental in Phoenix's success, particularly noteworthy considering the rarity of Northern Irish teams competing at this level in the U18 National Cup. Fiontan's all-star performances did not go unnoticed, as he was selected as part of the 25-man U18 International Squad announced by Basketball Ireland.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, "The depth of sporting talent discovered within our council area remains truly remarkable. This month, we are proud to honour both an accomplished Archer champion and a standout Basketball Ireland player. Both teens should be extremely proud of their achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthfebmarch24/ Nominations close on Friday 5th April 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Roy Skillen, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee Member, Erin Lunney, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fiontan Rogers and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.