Bloom Magazine (Jan 15 online)

EAST BELFASTISSUE 35JANUARY 2015

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Bloom Magazine Belfast

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WINTER TYRESAdvice on selecting your tyres for winter from local experts Roundabout Tyres, Ballygowan Road

During such harsh winters, driving conditions become extremely challenging and making sure you are safe on the road is important. Cold weather tyres or Winter tyres as they are also now commonly known, are one of the key factors in ensuring you, and your family, are safe during the winter months.

WHAT ARE WINTER TYRES?What makes a winter tyre different from a ‘summer’ tyre is the tread compound and tread pattern. The tread compound of a winter tyre contains more natural rubber so that it does not harden when it’s cold. This ensures that the tyre stays flexible in low winter temperatures (below +7C) which helps to reduce the stopping distance and maintain excellent grip on snow and ice as well as on wet roads in cold conditions.The design of the tread on a winter tyre allows the tread to bite in to snow and ice to give interlock-ing grip, which is critical in the centre of the tread where the tyre carries the highest load. The most common way to identify a winter tyre is to check the sidewall as this will be marked with a symbol showing a snowflake or snow-topped mountains. It is important to note that winter tyres are not suitable for all year round use – summer tyres will provide better performance when temperatures are higher and roads are dry.

does, now on average, have many days that are cold with a surprising number of them with ice and snow. Recent winters have resulted in chaos on the UK roads with many people struggling to get out of their road or driveway. In the UK there is currently no legal requirement to use winter tyres but with drivers being six times more likely to have an accident from October to March (Source: driving.org), there is a strong argument for fitting them to your vehicle and winter tyres make sense if you live in a high altitude or remote area of the UK where winter conditions are likely to be worse for longer. It is recommended Winter tyres be fitted in sets of four. Fitting only one pair may affect the balance and stability of the car.

Shorter Stopping Distances, improved safety, reduced aquaplaning

Although the UK does not consistently suffer from extreme winters like many parts of Europe, it

WHY FIT WINTER TYRES?

In comparison to summer tyres, winter tyres not only reduce braking distance significantly in snow and ice but also in cold and wet weather and due to the specially developed compound which contains more natural rubber and in-creased groove ratio a winter tyre can maintain excellent grip in snow/ice and wet conditions. The specific tread pattern design of winter tyres can also disperse a greater amount of water, ef-fectively, reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

For more info about winter tyre options available to you, contact Roundabout Tyres:1D Ballygowan Rd. Tel: 028 9079 6552

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Contents

Welcome to a very exciting issue of Bloom Magazine. Exciting firstly because it's the very first issue of 2015. Secondly as it's the first magazine of me flying solo! At this point I'd just like to say a huge thank you to all of you who have supported me in taking on full ownership of Bloom. Exciting times ahead for the new look Bloom!

Anyway, as usual we are packed full with all the local news and goings on in East Belfast. Obviously it's the time of year for making (& breaking) the usual new years resolutions, so we have enlisted the help of some local experts to steer us in the right direction to focus on looking after ourselves better in 2015. I write this with a mince pie in my hand full of great intentions of a healthier, better version of me!!

So, enjoy the read and if when you are out and about and you think there is something we should know about please let me know.

Enjoy,

Happy New Year!

Angela ^

Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Welcome LOCAL NEWS

ASK THE EXPERT WITH ERIC MERCER OPTICIAN

GET FIT FOR 2015

COMPETITION TIME WITH FERGUSON FLOWERS

NEW YEAR BEAUTY TIPS FROM THE SECRET DAY SPA

UPDATE ON CONNSWATER COMMUNITY GREENWAY

COOK BOOK

PROPERTY EXPERTS

STAY HEALTHY IN 2015

WHATS ON?

RSPB NEED YOUR HELP.

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Find us:City East Business Centre 68-72 Newtownards RoadBelfast BT4 1GW www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Contact:Angela Campbell | [email protected] | 07719 104862

Designed by: Stephen Sharpe & Barry McGovernPrinted by: Nicholson BassDistributed by: Speedpost NI

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[email protected]

@bloommag Bloom Magazine Belfast

ANY NEWS? GET IN TOUCH! JANUARY 2015

News

REJUVALASE BEAUTY and Laser Clinic is a brand new, relaxed and stress free salon opened in October 2014, located at 448 Newtownards Road. At Rejuvalase our aim is to relax you with a therapy or treatment of your choice. Beauty treatments such as waxing, tinting, nails to luxury facials using Dermalogica products. Holistic treatments such as reflexology, hopi ear candling and full body massage as well as tattoo removal and carbon laser peels. We also provide our clients with specialist massage such as fertility and pregnancy massage. We also cater for children by hosting princess parties for any occasion. If it's the unique experience of a joint treatment you are after we can provide a calming treatment room to unwind with that special person.

Regardless of your treatment with us our friendly and experienced staff will ensure you want to return again and again.

We are also proud to facilitate ourselves with the Northern Ireland Hospice, by offering complimentary treatments to those families who find themselves in very stressful situations.

www.rejuvalasebeauty.co.uk | Tel: 028 9046 9447

KARATE WORLD CHAMPIONS RECOGNISED AT STORMONTClub members bring home six gold medals from Argentine event.

South Belfast MP Dr Alasdair McDonnell has acknowledged the success of the NI Karate Academy following their recent success at the World Championships in Argentina. The team, including members aged nine to adult, emerged with six gold medals and a number of silver and bronze, and were ranked 4th overall.

Dr McDonnell hosted a reception at Stormont, where team members and their families were thanked for their dedication and strong showing representing Northern Ireland.

According to Ravenhill native Cathy McAleer “It was an exciting opportunity to represent Northern Ireland at the world championships in October. Our small team did us proud, and were ranked as the fourth Country overall, returning with six world champions. It’s a tremendous boost to Karate in Northern Ireland, and given the young age of many of our competitors, lays the groundwork for future success.

Dr McDonnell added: “I would like to acknowledge the hard work of all the club members and the tremendous efforts they put in to training and competing. Special praise is also due to their families and supporters including Cathy McAleer, herself a successful champion, who has given so much back to the sport she loves.

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LOCAL

NEWS EVENTS

VIEWS

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MIXED-MEDIA ANIMATORS SIXTEEN SOUTH NAMED FINALIST FOR MAJOR NATIONAL TV AWARDBelfast based Sixteen South is in the running for a major television industry award for its mixed-media animation series Lily’s Driftwood Bay whose cast includes stars Stephen Fry, Ardal O’Hanlon and Peter Mullan. Lily’s Driftwood Bay, already a hit show in the UK, US and Australia where it is currently entertaining viewers with new winter episodes, is a finalist in the Best Pre-School Programme at the Broadcast Awards 2015. Winners will be announced on 4 February 2015 at the twentieth anniversary of the awards in London. Colin Williams, Creative Director at Sixteen South, said: “To be shortlisted by our peers in the television industry for a Broadcast Award is simply fantastic. We love Lily’s Driftwood Bay and we’re so proud that she was created and brought to life in Belfast. We're up against stiff competition, but we’re excited that the judges loved the programme enough to name Sixteen South as a finalist for this prestigious award.”

Lily’s Driftwood Bay winter episodes sees Lily take part in Winter Games where Bull is determined to win a medal at Driftwood Bay winter games. In Snowy Sheep Chase, a stray sheep leads Lily and Salty deep into a snow storm and in Christmas Kerfuffle, everyone is preparing the Cockle Café for a celebration when disaster strikes! This awards shortlisting comes on the back of the recent announcement that Sixteen South has once again been named as one of the fastest growing companies in the Deloitte Ireland Fast 50, UK Fast 50 UK and EMEA Fast 500 with a growth rate of 639%. Lily’s Driftwood Bay is supported by Northern Ireland Screen.

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KEEP WARM AND SAFE DURING WINTER, URGES NEWTONROBIN Newton East Belfast DUP MLA said as we move deeper into what is predicted to be a very severe winter it is essential that people prepare for any extreme weather to avoid health problems. Robin Newton said,“Being prepared for the longer and colder winter nights can help individuals, especially older people, and young families to stay warm, safe and healthy. It’s important to Keep up to date with weather forecasts and ensure there is enough of the right food and medicines in the cupboards. A balanced diet with hot foods and hot drinks are essential. Flu, chest infections and other breathing problems are more likely during chilly periods and can lead to more serious health risks. Wearing layers of clothes will help keep heat in and above all important to keep the base of the back warm. One in every four pensioners is worried about keeping warm and is troubled about the high cost of the winter heating bill. This cost can be kept to a minimum if windows are kept closed, heating boilers are serviced regularly and by heating only the rooms that are being used. Older people and other high risk groups especially should keep in touch with family, friends and those they can trust in case they need assistance.”

LOCAL NEWSVIEWS EVENTS

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LOCAL STUDENTS ‘BRACED’ FOR A FUTURE IN THE MOVIES!Moving Image Arts students from Ashfield Girls’ High School and Aquinas Grammar School Belfast got an insight to the filmmaking business recently, participating in a bespoke film project for Belfast dental practice, Gentle Dental Care supported by Cinemagic and the Arts & Business Northern Ireland Investment Programme. The ten young people, aged 15-18, had just two days to develop a filmmaking brief from concept to screen under the guidance of Cinemagic and the film was premiered at

the closing night of the Cinemagic Film Festival in Odyssey Cinemas Belfast.

The film students had a challenging task to create the film ‘Brace Yourself’, focusing on the thoughts and concerns young teenagers have about getting braces, an issue that Gentle Dental wanted to examine in a creative environment to help communicate with their patients in a new and innovative way.

After a research morning involving 90 pupils from both schools,the dental practice was transformed into a film set for the project, with all of the staff taking on starring roles in the film! The initiative allowed the young film students to research an important youth issue, allowing them to work as a team and express their opinions as well as develop an understanding of the filmmaking process.

Heather Carr, Business Manager, Arts & Business NI said: “It is fantastic to see a local business working so well in partnership with an arts organisation to develop a really innovative solution to promote their business. We look forward to supporting them again in the future"

Adam Jaffa, Managing Partner, Gentle Dental, said: “Gentle Dental came on board as a first time sponsor of Cinemagic and our teams worked closely together to develop a mutually beneficial partnership. Cinemagic were able to reach out to the target market of young teenagers, the group that we wanted to engage with, in a fun and meaningful way. We were incredibly impressed with the enthusiasm and talent from the young students”.

Joan Burney Keatings, Chief Executive, Cinemagic said: “The project allowed Cinemagic to develop young people’s skills in filmmaking but also in areas such as team work, communication, decision making and working to a deadline, skills that are transferrable in the school environment and in the future when the young people enter the workplace. The initiative illustrated how business and the arts can successfully work together to achieve common goals”.

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East Belfast Community Development Agency are pleased to offer the following training:

2 Day ASIST Suicide Intervention TrainingTuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 February 2014 from 9am to 5pm both days(you must be able to attend both full days)

at Inverary Community Centre, Inverary Avenue, Belfast, BT4 1RN.Refreshments and lunches will be provided

To register please contactJean Higginson at EBCDA,

Email: [email protected] orTel: 028 9045 1512

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e interiorsRESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS109a BLOOMFIELD AVENUE, BELFAST TEL : 028 9046 6553 EMAIL : [email protected] : TUESDAY - SATURDAY 9.30am - 5pm

full interior design serviceOSBORNE & LITTLE • DESIGNERS GUILD • SANDERSON • HARLEQUIN • RALPH LAUREN • ZOFFANY COLEFAX & FOWLER • ANDREW MARTIN • LARSEN • CARLUCCI • SCION • ROMO • NINA CAMPBELL JANE CHURCHILL • JAB • BYRON & BYRON • DECORA BLINDS • FIBRE FLOORING • SILENT GLISS

FABRICS • WALLPAPER • BLINDS • CARPETS • PAINT • CURTAIN POLES • FURNITURE • LIGHTING

News

LOCAL NUTRITIONIST SCOOPS TOP AWARDJane McClenaghan, author of the Vital Nutrition Cookbook and a leading nutritionist in Northern Ireland, has been highly commended for her outstanding practice at the highly coveted CAM Awards.

The CAM Awards are the UK’s ‘Oscars’ of the complementary and alternative health industry, and recognise individuals who are making a real difference through their work. Jane has beaten stiff competition across the whole of the UK and Northern Ireland and has been acknowledged as a practitioner whose work has inspired and motivated through best practice.

Speaking at her delight of receiving such prestigious recognition, Jane said: “I am ecstatic with this wonderful acknowledgment of my hard work from an industry that I am proud to be a part of.”

“I feel genuine pleasure when I see people making real and positive changes to their everyday lives that will have a massive impact on their health and future wellbeing.”

From cookery classes, nutrition workshops, one-to-one consultations and workplace health, Jane strives to share her knowledge and expertise to give people the confidence to make better choices which will have a real positive effect on their lives.

Jane McClenaghan’s passion for good food started in childhood, as she helped her mother prepare delicious family meals using produce grown in her own family garden. After studying Food Science at the University of Reading, her hunger for healthy lifestyle choices lead her to work alongside some of the UK’s foremost nutrition experts – Patrick Holford, Marilyn Glenville and Ian Marber (Food Doctor) to name a few, before returning to Northern Ireland to set up her own consultancy.

In 2001 Vital Nutrition was born and Jane has successfully helped thousands of people make easy, manageable changes to their diets with a view to achieving a better state of health and wellbeing.

"Jane was put forward for a CAM Award because of her outstanding commitment and contribution to the natural health industry. Jane has become Northern Ireland's leading nutrition expert with an extensive knowledge base developed from over 15 years in clinical practice. Her endless enthusiasm has inspired, influenced and encouraged a vast number of individuals and workplaces to make healthier food choices and experience the benefits of better health."

With her many years of successful clinical practice, Jane supports people with a variety of health issues, but has a special interest in hormone balance and adrenal support (stress and exhaustion). She practices from Framar Health, Belfast (www.framarhealth.com).

Jane’s practice has met the strict criteria required for registration with the Nutritional Therapy Council (NTC) and Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) — the Professional Standards Council for regulation of Nutritional Therapists. Jane is also bound by a strict code of ethics in clinical practice, governed by the British Association of Nutritional Therapy and Applied Nutrition (BANT). Jane is also a member of the Guild of Health Writers.

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LOCALEXPERT ERIC MERCER OPTINIANS

Local optometrist Eric Mercer answers your questions and gives advice on common eye problems. It’s a new year, and many of us will be looking to diet and exercise to help shake off the Christmas excesses. It’s well-known that having a balanced diet and active lifestyle is great for your general health. But did you know it can also help protect your eyesight? Research shows that a diet low in fat and rich in fruit, vegetables and oily fish provides a wealth of vitamins, pigments and omega 3s, all of which are good for your eye health.

Vitamins Vitamins have powerful anti-oxidant properties that help protect your eyes from conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Look for vitamins A, C and E, in particular. These are found in many different fruits and vegetables – including oranges, kiwis, green leafy vegetables and tomatoes. They are also found in nuts, seeds and eggs.

Macular pigments Certain carotenoid pigments - called lutein and zeaxanthin - have also been shown to reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration. Like vitamins, these pigments are strong antioxidants that mop up potentially damaging free radicals. They also absorb ultraviolet light which helps protect the delicate cells of the macula at the back of your eyes. Dark green leafy vegetables, such as kale, cabbage, lettuce, spinach and broccoli, are particularly rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. Other good sources include peas, sweetcorn, celery and onions.

SupplementsThere are a wide variety of nutritional supplements on the market targeted at eye health. However, there is some debate about their potential benefits. Most specialists agree that if you eat a healthy, balanced diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables, there is probably no need to use supplements. However, they can be a useful top-up if there is a shortfall in your diet or you already have macular degeneration.

ExerciseRecent studies show that having an active lifestyle can also reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Exercise increases blood-flow to the tissues inside your eyes, which helps eliminate toxins and prevent cell damage.

So, to summarize: if you are watching the calories this New Year - keep active, eat “five a day” of fruit and veg and include plenty of “greens” and oily fish. It will not only help you lose weight – it will improve your general health and help protect your eyesight too.

ASK THE OPTICIAN

Omega 3 oilsOmega 3 is an essential fatty acid that has been shown to ease the irritating symptoms of dry eyes. Foods high in omega 3 include oily fish and fresh seeds. If you aren’t keen on the taste of fish, fish-oil capsules and omega 3 supplements are a good alternative.

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Eric can be contacted at his practice at:

448 Woodstock Road, Belfast, BT6 9DR. Tel: 028 9058 3030.

For more information, check out the practice website at:www.ericmerceropticians.com.

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News

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‘QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE’ 2014Congratulations to Grosvenor Grammar School’s Senior Mathematics team which achieved first place in the highly prestigious ‘Queen’s University Mathematics Challenge’ competition 2014, held in The Great Hall on Wednesday 3rd December. The team, comprising sixth formers Christopher Purdy, Paul Pruzina, Ryan Simpson and David Thompson, defeated around thirty opposing teams with the assistance of their teacher Dr. Sam Stevenson. Concentration within the venue was palpable as brains steamed whilst tackling this year’s challenging problems, cunningly devised by lecturers of the Q.U.B. Mathematics Department. Tension quickly rose in the Grosvenor camp as they took an early lead and, whilst they entered the final round with all to lose, pressure succumbed to elation when they were finally announced as the overall winners.

At the victory presentation Dr. Dundas, Mathematics Lecturer at Queen’s and event organiser, gave credit to Grosvenor, declaring that “the team won by a considerable margin”. The presentation was made by Michelle O’Hagan of ‘First Derivatives plc’, sponsors of the event.

‘First Derivatives plc’ is a leading employer of Mathematics graduates which wishes to make links with leading students from across the region. Each member of Grosvenor’s winning team took away a cash prize while an additional bounty will be presented to them at the company’s Headquarters in Newry when they attend on an educational visit later in the year.

Well done to all four of Grosvenor’s talented students on their victory, as well as Dr. Stevenson - whose input was instrumental to the team’s overall success. We wish Christopher, Paul, Ryan and David the best of luck in their Mathematics and Further Mathematics A Level studies and look forward to hearing about their visit to ‘First Derivatives’ Headquarters in the new year.

Stevenson - whose input was instrumental to the team’s overall success. We wish Christopher, Paul, Ryan and David the best of luck in their Mathematics and Further Mathematics A Level studies and look forward to hearing about their visit to ‘First Derivatives’ Headquarters in the new year.

Belfast City Council’s Sports Development Conference ‘Game Changer!’ proved a knock out hit with delegates not just the speakers. Representatives from 32 clubs across the city attended the event which offered information sessions on development, nutrition, under-represented groups, and first aid. Lord Mayor Nichola Mallon also attended the event where Paralympian Gold Medallist, Michael McKillop and Phil Lane, who was named among ‘100 Most Influential People in Sport’ by The Times in 2009, 2010 and 2011 shared their experiences and looked forward to the future of sport in Belfast.

Being knocked sideways at the Game Changer! Sports Development Conference by trainee boxer, Ashton Blair from Eastside Boxing Club, are speakers (l-r) Adam Newton, Chairman of the council’s Parks and Leisure Committee, Phil Lane and Michael McKillop. More information available at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/sportsdevelopment


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We sell houses.Phone us or call in.

Milk Flier new kid.indd 10 17/12/14 15:19:31

December is a tough time and we all like to cut loose and enjoy lots of down time and socialising with our friends and family, but avoid the January fear by keeping your goals in your mind.

If you have thought about improving your exercise or diet then there is no time like the present! Make small changes like making sure your snacks and meals are filled with healthy and nutritious food, or accompany a friend to their gym or swim class. Instead of doing it in "January" just go for it!

This takes the pressure off and mean your changes happen over a steadier period of time rather than all at once come the new year, and any changes that are implemented slowly are more likely to stick than anything drastic.

Tips for Gettingback on the Health Train

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Belmont Road’s Ferguson Flowers is recognising teachers who go above and beyond with ‘Say it with Flowers’ campaign

In an effort to recognise a number of outstanding teachers in our local community, East Belfast’s very own family-run florist, Ferguson Flowers, has teamed up with Bloom Magazine to extend their ‘Say it with Flowers’ campaign to our local schools. Throughout the month of January, students, fellow teachers, faculty and parents are asked to submit an online entry nominating their favourite teacher to receive a surprise bouquet of flowers as a thank you for their tireless work with young people.

Speaking on behalf of Ferguson Flowers, owner Michael Ferguson said, “Flowers have a language all their own and are a perfect and versatile way to say thank you or let someone know they’re appreciated. As a community florist, we recognise the hard work put in my hundreds of local teachers and coaches in our schools to help the next generation succeed.”

“Our ‘Say it with Flowers’ campaign this autumn / winter has seen a number of winners across Northern Ireland awarded with bouquets. As teachers hold a special place in our hearts here at Fergusons, we have decided to extend the campaign to find deserving mentors in our own local community.”

Fergusons are encouraging readers to ‘Say it with Flowers’ and nominate their favourite teachers to win one of four surprise bouquets from Belfast’s leading florist. Winning entries will be surprised at school with a seasonal bouquet delivered by the Ferguson Flowers team.

To enter a deserving teacher to win, submit a letter, video, or original artwork of no more than 500 words describing why he or she deserves to be recognised to: [email protected]. Closing Date is Monday 19th January. Winners will be surprised at the end of January with surprise bouquets.

To explore the full range of arrangements and hand-ties available at Ferguson Flowers this winter, visit their shop at 45 Belmont Road, Belfast, or logon to www.fergusonflowers.co.uk or www.facebook.com/fergusonflowers.co.uk.

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Our staff have over 40 years experience, providing friendly & helpful advice on all car related matters.

WINTER IS ON ITS WAY! GET YOUR CAR PREPARED:ANTIFREEZE, WIPERS, DE-ICER, BATTERIES ALL AVAILABLE HERE. PLUS FREE WIPER FITTTING!

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Overindulged during the festive season?Don’t worry; our experts are at the rescue with their

quick-fix beauty tips.

Too many late nights at Christmas parties has made my skin dull and my eyes look puffy.

Revive tired winter skin on your face by using Dermalogica gentle cream exfoliant, £38.80. It is as important to exfolitate in winter as it is in summer. To get a healthy glow it is vital to rid your skin of dead skin cells. It is mild and gentle to use, so ideal if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Apply a small amount of [comfort zone] sacred nature eye cream gel to the contour of your eye. . The caffeine in this product will reduce any puffiness and swelling and leave the skin soft and nourished.

Change to a heavier weight moisturizer for more nourishment and protection like Super Rich Repair for day and night - £62.60

Add a light reflecting concealer. We love Youngblood ultimate concealer,£23,available in 5 different shades is the simple most effective way to brighten your eyes. Hydrating the area first will prevent the eye makeup looking too heavy and will give a youthful sheen to the skin.

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News

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CONNSWATER COMMUNITY GREENWAY CONSTRUCTION UPDATEConstruction will begin this month on the second phase of the £40 million Connswater Community Greenway, in east Belfast. This carries on from the recently completed phase 1 greenway works at Victoria and Orangefield Park’s.

Exciting plans for phase 2 of the Connswater Community Greenway include:

• A C.S. Lewis themed civic square at Holywood Arches• Public art at Holywood Arches and gateways• New play areas at Avoniel and Loop River Park • 16kms of new paths for walking and cycling• New bridges, crossings and signage• Improvements to the rivers • Flood defences• Lighting, benches, landscaping and planting

The phase 2 contractor, Farrans will begin constructionin the following areas this month:

• Orangefield Park to the Knock Dual Carriageway • Ladas Drive to Montgomery Road • Holywood Arches • Connswater Retail Park

The remaining sections will follow later this year, with all work to be completed by late 2016. Households will be notified in advance about work in their area. Look out for posters and leaflets too, and if you have any questions about the construction works you can call the 24/7 freephone Farrans Customer Care Line on 0800 083 8160. You can view a draft programme of the greenway works schedule visiting www.communitygreenway.co.uk.

Don’t forget you can already visit the newly regenerated Victoria and Orangefield Park’s to see all the improvements as part of the Connswater Community Greenway. These parks’s have also had lighting installed and are open 24/7 so there’s no excuse!

Later this month the Connswater Community Greenway will be holding an event in Orangefield Park for dog walkers – Orangefield Bark Walk. This is a great opportunity to maybe meet a walking partner, experience the park in the evening and encourage people to get to know their local park community. Join the Bark Walk on Thursday 15th January at 8pm with you pooch. Pre register by emailing [email protected] or telephoning 028 9046 7925 – first 40 registered will receive a dog collar light.

The Connswater Community Greenway has been developed by the East Belfast Partnership and is being delivered with Belfast City Council. Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, Belfast City Council and the Department for Social Development. You can find out more about the project online at www.communitygreenway.co.uk.

Join the conversation online by liking on facebook.com/ConnswaterCommunityGreenway or Tweeting @ConnswaterCG


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MONDAYMOUNTPOTTINGERMountpottinger Methodist Church,188 Albertbridge Road,BT5 4GU

9.30am, 11.30am,5.30pm & 7.30pm

Tel: Michelle07857 131766

TUESDAYBALLYHACKAMOREBloomfield Collegiate School, Astoria Gardens BT5 6HW

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Tel: Sally07738 713436

WEDNESDAYBLOOMFIELDBloomfield Presbyterian Church, 447 Beersbridge Road, BT5 5DW

9.30am, 3.30pm5.30pm & 7.30pm

Tel: Deborah07708 373567

CONNSBROOKStrand Church161 Connsbrook Avenue, BT4 1JT

5.30pm & 7.30pm

Tel: Michelle07857 131766

GLENBURNGlenburn Methodist Church Hall, Glensharragh Gardens,Castlereagh, BT6 9PE

5.30pm & 7.30pm

Tel: Ash07733 264751

Dundela Pharmacy

17-19 Belmont Road Belfast BT4 2AATelephone: 028 9065 7853

FOR ALL YOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY NEEDS

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-5pmwww.dundela.co.uk

448 Woodstock RoadTel: 028 9058 3030

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cookbook

Ingredients (Serves 2)

150-200g white fish (choose sustainable fish like coley or pollock)

- 4 spring onions, chopped- 1 inch fresh root ginger, grated- 1 tsp Thai green curry paste- 2 tsp nam pla (fish sauce)- 1 egg, beaten- 2 tblsp chopped coriander- 1 tblsp flour (I use buckwheat flour, but- whatever you have in the cupboard)- Juice and zest of a lime- Black pepper- 1 tsp coconut oil

Method

Finely chop the fish and place in a large bowl with the spring onions, ginger, curry paste, fish sauce, egg and coriander. Mix well and then stir in the flour, lime juice and zest and season with black pepper.

The mixture may be a bit wet at this stage. You can add a bit more flour if you like.

Divide into 4 generous portions. Put a little flour on your hands and form each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly and fry in the coconut oil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Thai Fishcakes

ABOUT JANEAward winning Jane McClenaghan, author of the Vital Nutrition Cookbook and a leading nutritionist in Northern Ireland, shares some delicious healthy recipes with us to kick start

our healthy eating habits for 2015.

| 24

Asian Beef Salad

Ingredients (Serves 2)

150-200g white fish (choose sustainable fish like coley or pollock)

- 1-2 tblsp oyster sauce- 1 clove garlic, chopped- ½ to 1 chilli (depending on how hot you like- it), chopped- 200g fillet steak, thinly sliced- 1 tsp coconut oil- For the salad:- 3 or 4 spring onions, chopped- 100g beansprouts- 1 red pepper, sliced- ¼ cucumber- Bunch of coriander, chopped- A few strips of preserved ginger- 2 tblsp sesame seeds

Method

Mix the oyster sauce, garlic and chilli together in a bowl and add the sliced steak. Allow to marinate while you make the salad.

In a salad bowl, combine the spring onions, beansprouts and red pepper. Use a vegetable peeler to finely slice the cucumber into strips.

Add to the other salad ingredients. Add the chopped coriander and preserved ginger.

Put the sesame seeds into a heavy based pan and heat gently until lightly toasted. Add to the salad.

Heat the coconut oil in a wok, then add the marinated beef and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until cooked.

Serve the beef along with the salad and add dressing to taste.

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BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

268 Belvoir Drive, Belfast BT8 7DU • Tel: 028 9081 7899 / 028 9081 7901

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LOCALEXPERT CENTURY21 BELFAST

CENTURY21 BELFAST, the estate and letting agency experts, is urging all potential house purchasers and sellers to make sure they clearly understand the new stamp duty system and what it will mean for them.

The new system for stamp duty was announced by Chancellor George Osborne in December’s Autumn Statement and means the old ‘slab’ method has been abolished in favour of a new ‘progressive’ approach.

CENTURY21 BELFAST believes purchasers will now need to factor in the stamp duty changes as they could either provide significant savings on the previous system, or for those purchasing £1m homes, will mean an increase in overall house purchase cost.

The local agents are also urging buyers to contact their office in order to discuss how this might impact their plans, and is also stressing to sellers that revaluation of properties may also be appropriate given the fact many homes were priced in line with the previous, artificial stamp duty thresholds.

CENTURY21 BELFAST believe the stamp duty changes may significantly alter the local housing market and are therefore urging anyone considering buying or selling property to seek their expert advice before proceeding.

MARK DUGGAN, SALES DIRECTOR of CENTURY21 BELFAST commented:

To review all properties available to purchase or rent via CENTURY21 BELFAST please visit:www.century21uk.com/belfast

FIND US ONLINE:

The changes to the stamp duty taxation system were certainly a ‘rabbit out of the hat’ from Chancellor George Osborne in his recent Autumn Statement. They appear to have taken the entire property market by surprise however we believe the changes are long overdue and the more progressive system should be a lot fairer for many of our clients. The new rules mean different things to different buyers but the rule of thumb is that anyone purchasing a property under £937k will be paying less stamp duty under this new system than the old one.

“For sellers too, there are issues to consider as the previous thresholds did often distort the price at which properties were marketed in order to bring them within a certain band. This should no longer be the case and therefore we may well see some significant revaluation of properties because of this. The advice has to be for both buyers and sellers to take expert advice from CENTURY21 BELFAST so we are able to tailor their plans to the new local housing market.

| 28

93 Bloomfield Road Belfast

BT5 [email protected]

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LOCALEXPERT DUNDELA PHARMACY

At this time of year we are all thinking about the New Year ahead and perhaps have made New Year resolutions. Some we will stick to and others perhaps have already been broken! No matter what age we are, it is imperative that we pay close attention to our health. Now is a perfect time to start thinking about the little changes we can make to help improve our health.

It is important to enjoy a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, based on starchy wholegrains and low in saturated fat. This means that potatoes and wholegrain cereals, brown rice and wholewheat pasta should make up a third of what we eat. Some people think that starchy foods are fattening but gram for gram they contain half the calories of fat. Saturated fats are found in meat products, butter, cheeses and cream, the average man should eat no more than 30g, women 20g, of these foods. Try and include good heart healthy foods such as oily fish, oats, pulses and nuts. It is important to not deny yourself little treats. Small changes can make all the difference, consider swapping the can of fizzy drink for a bottle of water or the milk chocolate bar for a few squares of dark chocolate.

Aim for a healthy weight and shape. The more apple shaped you are the greater the risk of heart disease. For men this means you’re aiming for a waist measurement of 37in or less and women 32in or less.

Try building exercise into your everyday routine, take the stairs instead of the lift or make it a brisk walk to work or the shops instead of a stroll. Aim to do twenty minutes of exercise four times per week. If you are not used to physical activity, you should speak to your pharmacist or another healthcare professional before beginning any exercise programme, and remember it is important to increase the level of physical activity gradually.

Consider having a health check, at Dundela pharmacy we offer blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol screening for a small fee. A quick and easy test now may motivate you to make changes to your lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing diabetes or heart disease before the need for medication. Anyone from the age of 30 onwards will benefit from screening as you can have risk factors you may not be aware of, even when symptom free.

You can call into Dundela Pharmacy anytime to speak to one of our highly trained healthcare team.

Have a Happy & Healthy New Year!

New Year, New You?

| 32

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EVENTS EtcCalvary Mums & Toddlers.10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Little StarsThe Salvation Army 110 Cregagh RoadToys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 years. 028 9045 4466. Sydenham Parent & Toddler Mon 10-11.30 £1 per familyInverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456St Finnians10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.Wandsworth Mums & Chums10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £126a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698

Albertbridge Congregational10.30-12.15Woodstock Link. Donation £1CFC Mops & Tots9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total for more. Tea/coffee/juice/snacks.CFC Mops9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £3.50 per mum. Breakfast and creche provided. 10 Belmont Rd. 028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.comMersey Street Presb.10-11.45am term time. £1.Mersey St Presbyterian 028 90 657025St Donards Church

Tel: 028 9065 2321£1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juiceStrandtown Baptist Tots10.00- 11.30am (term time)Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2ABTel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adultTots & Co

10.15- 11.45am (term time)Cregagh Methodist Church£1.50 per family (incl juice/snack & tea. 28-30 Cregagh Rd. 028 9045 7564

Busy Bees 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road. Tel: 028 9065 3413

10.30-12 37 North Road, BT5 5NE

Community, 464 Castlereagh Road

St Colmcille’s Parent & Toddler10am term time St Colmcille’s Parish Hall (opposite Tesco’s) in Ballyhackamore. Men looking after young children welcome. 191a Upper Newtownards Rd

10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654

10-11.30am £1 per familyGrand Parade 028 9065 8946.Cregagh Mums & Tots10-12pm Cregagh CC. Mount Merrion Avenue. Tel: 028 9040 1444Gilnahirk PresbyterianThursdays 10-11.30am. £1 per family. 161 Gilnahirk Rd. Laura 07708 000025Kirkpatrick Memorial PresbParents & Toddlers. 10-11.30amUpper Newtownards Rd £1 donationKnock Parent & Toddler10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian53 Kings Road, Gillian 07803 117619.

Tots ‘R’ Us10.30am House of Worship127a Orby Drive

Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506St Columba’s Mums & Tots9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road

Ballyhackamore Library1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204Books R Us 9-11 yr olds reading group (third Mon of month) 3.30-4.30Knit & Natter 2-4pmBedtime Stories 7pm. Me Time (Last Mon of the month) For busy women 7-8.Bean Blessed

Tea/ coffee, scones, pastries. 10.30-12 Harding MemorialRainbows girls 4-7yrs Monday 6pm Brownies girls 7-10yrs Monday 7pm Guides 10-14yrs Mondays 7pm. Contact Clare 07905 556825.

Ladies Coffee Morning 1st Mon of month 10.30am 37 North Rd 028 9065 7876Skainos Building skainos.orgBadminton 2-3pm. Crosslinks - Cross Community Arts 7-9pm 14-21 yr olds. Contact Andy Hill.Strand Cinema & NI StarsHolywood Road, BT4 .nistars.comSinging & dancing 7-8pm Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668. Children’s Drama Academy 5-6pm. Children & Teens carnival drumming 6.30pm-7.30pm. Aerobics 7-8pm. Combat 8.15-9.30pm

Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Pregnancy Yoga 7.30-8.30pmEast Belfast Wine MakersSkainos Building skainos.orgCompass Womens Group 7-9pm

MondaysTODDLER GROUPS

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Calvary Mums & Toddlers.10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Little StarsThe Salvation Army 110 Cregagh RoadToys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 years. 028 9045 4466. Sydenham Parent & Toddler Mon 10-11.30 £1 per familyInverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456St Finnians10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.Wandsworth Mums & Chums10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £126a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698








10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654








Mondays

TODDLER GROUPS

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Thursdays

Fridays

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EVENTS Etc

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34

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EVENTS EtcCalvary Mums & Toddlers.10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Little StarsThe Salvation Army 110 Cregagh RoadToys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 years. 028 9045 4466. Sydenham Parent & Toddler Mon 10-11.30 £1 per familyInverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456St Finnians10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.Wandsworth Mums & Chums10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £126a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698








10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654








MondaysTODDLER GROUPS

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Fridays

Mondays

Tuesdays

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what’s on

Skainos Building skainos.orgFusion - Weekly programme of games, crafts & fun for p1-p7’s. 6.30-8pm £1 per person. Contact Tanita Robinson.The AcademyLego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Ages 3-6 years. £5 p/wk. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818Wandsworth CommunityPainting for Pleasure 11am-1pmChildrens Ju Jitsu 6-8pm Fitness & Boxing Class 8.30-9.30pmShiloh Hall 07712 299206, 76 The Mount, NDCoffee Morning 10:30-12.

37 North Road, BT5 5NESearchlight Club p1-p7. 10.30-12.Skainos Building skainos.orgWalking Trips from 10amStrand Cinema & NI StarsHolywood Road, BT4 Stage school 10-1pm www.nistars.comThe Academy10am Lego Club. 11am Claycrazy Club. £5 per session. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818Yoga BelfastPregnancy Yoga @ Physioworks Gilnahirk. 10.30-11.45am @ Com-munity drop in class 10.30-11.45am @ Gilnahirk Primary. yogabelfast.com Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668STX/Kickboxing 10am-11.30am

Strand Cinema & NI StarsHolywood Road, BT4Singling & dancing 1.30-3.30pm www.nistars.com

Ballyhackamore Library1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204Rhythm & Rhyme (1st & 3rd Thurs of the month) 11.15am. Book Pack (1st Thur) Adult reading group. Scrabble Night (adults) 6-8pm.Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukArt classes 10am-1pm. Baby Sensory Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6-8pmMindfulness Courses 6.30-8.30pmSenior Citizens Luncheon ClubMidday @ Ballymac Centre. Hot lunch & social time. [email protected] Building skainos.orgVibe Academy - Weekly streetdance. p1-p4 3.30-4.30pm P5-P7 4.30-5.30pm 1st yr+ 6.45-8pm. £6 per class. Lisa 07736 315420. Compass Mens Group 7-9pm. 50+ Gardening & Crafts Thurs 1-2.30pmThe AcademyLego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Age 7+£5p/wk. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668. Needlework 10am-12pm. Spanish mums & tots 11am-12pm. Spanish for preschoolers 2.15-3pm. Spanish for children 3.15-4pm. Boot Camp 7-8pm. Core Combat 8.30-10pm.

Albertbridge Congregational6 Woodstock Link 028 9045 7434Friday Friendship. 10.30am-12.30pm. Ballyhackamore Library1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204Chill Out Family Story Time. 3.30pm. Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Singing 10-1pm

Zumba 12.30-1.30pmWandsworth CommunityPlayclub 3-4 yr olds 10am-12. Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pmKids Irish dancing 5-6.30pm, Aerobics 7-8pm. Appreciation of Art 7-9pm. Wasps seniors group last Tues of month 2-3.30pm

29th NI Girls BrigadeCregagh Congregational. Explorers (3-7) 6:45-8:15pm. Company Section (8-18) 6:45-10pm. Helen 07938 521823.Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukBaby massage 10am-1pm. Yoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm. Body Rolling 7.30-8.30pm. 39th Old Boys 7-9pmOver 60’s Lunch Club

12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade. Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book.Gilnahirk Men’s GroupJack Britton Hall. Tea/coffee/chat & a speaker. 10.30-12 until 29th April.Girls Brigade

3 yrs - P4 6.15pm. P5 upwards 7.30pm Luncheon ClubFor senior citizens. Cregagh Methodist.12 noon. £1.50. Pre book meals at the

Skainos Bulding skainos.orgCompass Kidz Gap - Parents, guard-ians, toddlers - crafts, games, stories 10am-12. Going Green Gardening 2-4pm. Yoga 5.30-7pmStrand Arts Centre“Wacky Wednesdays” All shows, all day for £3. strandartscentre.comWandsworth CommunitySewing Group 10am-12noon. Flower Ar-ranging 1.30-3.30pm. Yoga 7-8.30pmYoga BelfastPregnancy Yoga @ Gilnahirk Primary. 6.45-7.45pm. Community drop in class @ Ice Bowl 7-8pm. yogabelfast.com

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email your event details to:[email protected]

36

BookkeepingAccountsTax Planning Self Assessment

KEY SERVICESPayrollVATBusiness PlanningRaising Finance

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|

Christmas might be over for another year but the folks at RSPB NI haven’t got the January blues because one of their favourite weekends is just around the corner!

The Big Garden Birdwatch is a simple concept – the charity asks people to spend one hour counting the birds which visit their garden over the weekend of 24/25 January 2015 and then report what they see.

The survey, now in its 36th year, provides information about the changes in numbers of birds using our gardens in winter and helps alert conservationists to species in decline.Last year more than 12,000 people in Northern Ireland took part and, of the 127,700 birds counted, house sparrows were the most commonly seen here.

Despite the wet and windy conditions during the two-day Birdwatch, these cheeky little birds were spotted in 66 per cent of gardens.

Starlings and chaffinches were the second and third most spotted birds, but overall sightings fell by six and 20 per cent respectively since 2013.

Don’t worry if it’s too chilly to venture outdoors – this citizen science works just as well if you’re cosily watching from indoors with a cup of tea in hand!

If you’d like to get involved this year, it couldn’t be easier - you can even take part in your local park if you don't have a garden.

When the Birdwatch kicks off you'll be able to use the online bird counting tool to record the birds as you see them directly on your laptop, tablet or smartphone. You can, of course, still take part with pen and paper and then enter your results on your computer or by filling in a paper survey form and posting it to the charity.

The survey is part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their own gardens and outside spaces – whether it by planting pollen-rich plants to attract bees and butterflies, putting up a nestbox for a house sparrow, or creating a pond that will support a number of different species. To find out how you can give nature a home where you live visit www.rspb.org.uk/homes.

You can register to take part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2015 at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

Get ready for the

world’s biggestwildlife survey!

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