Marie Curie Cancer Care has launched its Great Daffodil Appeal 2012 encouraging people to don a daffodil pin in March to support the essential work of Marie Curie Nurses across Northern Ireland.

Pamela Ballantine helps Amy Dempster and Marie Curie nurse Kasia Patynowska launch Marie Curie Cancer Care¹s Great Daffodil Appeal 2012, encouraging people to don a daffodil pin in March to support the essential work of Marie Curie Nurses across Northern Ireland. This year¹s flagship appeal is being backed by Downpatrick race course and local award winning fashion designer MaryRose McGrath who has created a bespoke one of a kind daffodil fascinator to be won by the Best Dressed Lady¹ wearing a yellow garment at the Downpatrick race day on 25th March. Pamela Ballantine will take the role of celebrity tipster on the day as well as helping to judge the best dressed competition. Daffodil pins can be picked up from local stores, schools, street collectors, from Marie Curie Shops or online. To find where you can get a daffodil pin in your local community please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil. For more information on how to get involved in the Great Daffodil Appeal, please contact 028 90882060.

This year’s flagship appeal is being backed by Downpatrick race course and local award winning fashion designer MaryRose McGrath who has created a bespoke one of a kind daffodil fascinator to be won by the ‘Best Dressed Lady’ wearing a yellow garment at the Downpatrick race day on 25^th March.

The annual Great Daffodil Appeal aims to raise £140,000 in donations across Northern Ireland to help provide more free nursing care for people with a terminal illness in their own homes and at the local Marie Curie Hospice, Belfast.

Marie Curie nurse Kasia Patynowska said: “Support for the Great Daffodil Appeal helps Marie Curie Nurses like me to provide more free care to people with cancer and other illnesses in their own homes and at the local Marie Curie Hospice in Belfast.

“We are delighted to have the support of MaryRose McGrath, whose work has graced the pages of fashion’s elite magazines such as Vogue and Elle as well as Downpatrick race course to help us create awareness of our appeal. We would encourage all ladies to come down to the races wearing a yellow garment to be in with a chance winning this beautiful fascinator and help us make a difference by making a donation and wearing a daffodil throughout March.”

Commenting on her support for the campaign, local fashion designer MaryRose McGrath said: “I am proud to be supporting Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal. After working in the London fashion industry for a number of years it’s great to be back in Northern Ireland.

“As we are stepping into spring, yellow is the colour of the season and provides the perfect opportunity for the public to wear this colour in support of Marie Curie and also on the race day to be in with a chance of winning my one of a kind fascinator.”

Downpatrick race course manager Richard Lyttle said: “We are expecting the race day on 25^th March to be a great occasion and are looking forward to hosting the Marie Curie ‘Best Dressed Lady’ award – it’s sure to be a fantastic day and we look forward to welcoming all stylish ladies wearing yellow!”

Daffodil pins can be picked up from local stores, schools, street collectors, from Marie Curie Shops or online. To find where you can get a daffodil pin in your local community please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil.

For more information on how to get involved in the Great Daffodil Appeal, please contact 028 90882060 or visit: www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil

With the much anticipated opening of the Titanic Visitor Centre just around the corner, Northern Ireland based activity providers have launched three innovative ways of exploring Belfast’s historic shipyard by land and sea.

Speed boat sea safaris, bike tours and interactive clue-based mobile apps are each set to enjoy almost automatic ‘must do’ reputations during this year’s Centenary celebrations and Chris Scott, Activity Tourism Manager for OutdoorNI.com, believes that these activity tours will successfully compliment Belfast’s unique Titanic experience.

Speaking at the announcement of the Belfast Sea Safari, Mr Scott added “It’s great to see Northern Ireland’s activity providers flexing their entrepreneurial muscle and embracing the Titanic story. These tours add an entirely new dimension to Belfast’s tourism product and really set the city apart as an exciting visitor destination.”

The maiden voyage of the brand new Belfast Sea Safari sets off from the Belfast Harbour Marina on Saturday 31^st March and Director of the Peak Discovery Group, Andrew Porter, explains “This will be a city tour with a difference! There is so much to see from the waters of Belfast Lough and literally every corner in our Titanic Quarter is steeped in maritime heritage with endless stories to tell.”

These thrilling speed boat tours will follow the route of the Titanic as she left Belfast Harbour in 1912 as well as exploring HMS Caroline and the famous SS Nomadic up close. Mr Porter, who also runs a successful sea safari on Strangford Lough, continues, “We’ll be running these family-friendly tours all summer long and expect them to be popular with visitors to Belfast as well as those native to the capital. We’re confident that the sea safari will be the most exciting way to see the docks and learn a bit more about the fascinating history of where the Titanic tale all began.”

For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, Belfast City Bike Tours, have developed a Titanic tour exploring some unique parts of the shipyard only accessible on two wheels. Whilst, Treasure Trails NI have reacted to the Titanic buzz by integrating a clue-based walking route into an interactive mobile app, providing yet another dimension to the Belfast visitor experience in 2012 and beyond.

Visit OutdoorNI.com to find out more about these new activity opportunities taking place in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter this year.

This Mother’s Day, treat your mum to a special day that will really mean something.

Delight her with a delicious afternoon tea or take her to do something that she loves, whether it’s a walk in a glorious garden, an adventure on bikes or an afternoon discovering something new. Whatever you choose to do, give the gift of time this Mother’s Day and make it her special day.

Here’s the National Trust’s top ten places to visit:

Castle Ward

Enjoy a guided stroll around Castle Ward through the exotic Victorian sunken garden and the stunning demesne. Then relax in the Stableyard to the sounds of Vivaldi and other classical works – Walks: 11am to 12.15pm and 3pm to 4.15pm. Music: 1pm to 3.30pm.  Hire a bicycle and explore the miles of new trails or indulge in cream teas in Lord Bangor’s Sitting Room and enjoy a self guided tour of the house.  Mothers receive free entry when accompanied by two paying children under 16 years.

Mount Stewart

With a surprise around every corner the gardens of Mount Stewart are a must-see for garden loving mums. There’s the Spanish pavilion that looks like a theatre set, political planting in the Shamrock Garden and colour-driven beds in the Italian, Sunken and White gardens. Relax in the Bay Restaurant and visit the garden shop to take home a souvenir piece of Mount Stewart.

Rowallane Garden

Be inspired by this enchanting garden’s dazzling array of exotic species from the four corners of the globe. Created in the mid 1860s by the Reverend John Moore, and his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore from 1903, this informal plantsman’s garden reflects the beautiful natural landscape of the surrounding area.  Take a tranquil walk around the Rock Garden Wood or follow the farmland trail to the summit of trio Hill.

The Argory

Say thanks to mum with a day at The Argory.  Enjoy afternoon tea in the Octagon

Room, and live entertainment with craft activities for Mum and the children.  Built in the 1820s, this handsome Irish gentry house is surrounded by a wooded riverside estate with wonderful vistas and riverside walks. The former home of the MacGeough Bond family, a tour of this Neo-classical masterpiece reveals it is unchanged since 1900s – the eclectic interior still evoking the family’s Edwardian tastes and interests.

Springhill

Springhill has a beguiling spirit that captures the heart of every visitor.  Enjoy walks along the way marked paths and strolls around the walled garden overflowing with flowers and herbs.  Its welcoming charm reveals a family home that brings to life the many generations of Lenox-Conynghams who lived here from 1680.

Carrick-a-Rede

Take the exhilarating rope bridge challenge and enjoy a truly unique cliff top experience. Set on the North Antrim Coast Road, amid unrivalled coastal scenery, the 30m-deep and 20m-wide chasm is traversed by an amazing rope bridge that was traditionally erected by salmon fishermen.  Visitors bold enough to cross to the rocky island are rewarded with fantastic views.

Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House

Visit the stunning landscape of Downhill Demesne, and discover the striking 18^th century mansion of the eccentric Earl Bishop that now lies in ruins, then explore Mussenden Temple, perched on the cliff edge.  As an extra treat learn about the reality of life in the rural 17^th century cottage of Hezlett House.  Built in 1691, Hezlett House is one of the oldest thatched cottages left standing in Northern Ireland.

Patterson’s Spade Mill

See history literally forged in steel at the last working water-driven spade mill in daily use in the British Isles. Hear the hammers, smell the grit, feel the heat and witness the thrill of traditional spade-making. Guided tours vividly capture life during the Industrial Revolution and dig up the history and culture of the humble spade.

Castle Coole

Savour the exquisite stately grandeur of this stunning 18^th century mansion set in a historic wooded landscape park – ideal for family walks. As one of Ireland’s finest Neo-classical houses, the sumptuous Regency interior provides a rare treat for visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore.

Florence Court

This beautiful park, gardens and surrounding forest, offer fantastic opportunities for all the family to enjoy.  There are miles of walking and cycle trails, a playground for the children and the opportunity to discover more about nature with our adventure Tracker Packs.  Alternatively relax in the peaceful gardens and enjoy stunning views to mountain scenery.    At the centre of the demesne lies Florence Court house, one of the most charming and beautiful Georgian mansions in Ulster.

26 Extreme have announced that the Southern Area Hospice Services (SAHS) will be the charity of the year for the Mourne Way Marathon challenge event which will be held on 9^th June 2012.

The event caters for all abilities, whether you are an ‘ultra’ athlete and keen to run the 52 mile (85km) ultra marathon or just a beginner runner who would like to get involved in the 5k or 10k run, there are numerous events on the day that will cater for all.  Registration fees for each event applies and these vary depending on which event you are registering for.  The SAHS are asking all participants to raise a further £30 sponsorship to take part in the Mourne Way Challenge.  On the day the following events will take place in Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor: Ultra Marathon (52mile), Marathon (26miles), Challenge Walk (26miles), Half Marathon (13mile), 10k run/walk, 5k run/walk and a children’s race.  The Mourne Way Marathon event initially began in 2009 and was the first off road marathon in Ireland.  Since its inception the numbers have increased year upon year and 2012 is set to have the largest attendance to date.

Local radio host and personality ‘Big O’ will be participating in the 10k run on the day and is already getting into shape for the event. Big O added, ‘I’m very excited about this year’s Mourne Way Marathon and I’ve already started my training.  I hope there are plenty runners and walkers alike willing to get their runners on for a great day out and raise money for a fantastic cause!’

Leanne Rice (Regional Marketing Officer for Newry & Mourne) commented, ‘We are delighted to be involved with the event this year and we are very grateful to 26 Extreme for their support. It is fantastic to see a local event in the Mourne area appealing to athletes locally and internationally as far as New Zealand and Canada.  Last year the interest in the event was incredible with 712 participants and this year I hope that there will be even more interest as we celebrate the Olympic year.  It is fundamental this year, more so now than ever, that we get as much support as possible due to having our highest ever fundraising target on record of £2.23 million!  Unfortunately the cost of living and running costs have increased and as a result we have had to ultimately increase our fundraising target.’

In January it was announced that the SAHS 2012 fundraising target would increase from £2.1million in 2011 to £2.23million. This is a large hike and financially 2012 will be very testing the SAHS a charity.   For a registration pack or further details please contact Leanne or Rachel in the Fundraising office on (028) 30251333 or email quinnr@southernareahospiceservices.org.  A full list of the events on the day can also be found at www.26extreme.com

New Boutique Festival Takes Residency at T13 in the Titanic Quarter

Hydroponic Music – one of the most respected music collectives in Ireland – has launched Titanic Lockdown, a brand new boutique festival set to take place under the iconic Harland and Wolff cranes.   An all-day launch festival will take place on 31^st March whilst dates for a two day music festival have been confirmed as 1^st and 2^nd June.

The launch festival on 31^st March, the opening day of Titanic Belfast, will feature a day-long programme of activity culminating in a night time concert at T13 with cutting edge music performances from Roots Manuva, legendary DJ Gilles Peterson and London’s Soul Jazz Sound System.

Hydroponic founder and resident DJ Michael McKeown stated:  “Titanic Lockdown is unique to the music scene in Northern Ireland – a real music festival for real music lovers in an outstanding venue in unbelievable surroundings.  The all-day launch festival on the 31^st March will feature everything from top class artists, banging DJ sets and loads of local bands to continental food markets, live street art, urban sports demo’s, fashion workshops and firebreathers.  Titanic Lockdown is set to offer real music fans the chance to be part of the launch of Titanic Belfast.”

Titanic Lockdown will take place at T13, home to Ireland’s leading Urban Sports Park & Shared Cultural Space.  The venue will host the indoor concert on 31^st March and will be home to the two-day outdoor music festival on 1^st and 2^nd June.

Artists are currently being lined up for the two-day event in June with Hydroponic Music promoter Andrew McFeeters promising: “Music lovers will not be disappointed.  Titanic Lockdown is in the final stages of negotiations with artists and bands that will draw fans from all over Ireland.  Hydroponic Music and our partners Heineken and NITB are committed to making Titanic Lockdown a must-see event for music fans who appreciate real musical talent across every genre.  Titanic Lockdown will rip up the blueprint of formulaic music events, crossing genres from Rock ‘n’ Roll, Hip Hop, Dance, Soul, Reggae, Funk and World Rhythms.”

To celebrate the launch of Titanic Lockdown the daytime programme of activity on 31^st March between 12pm and 6.30pm is free to all comers.   Under 18’s are welcome to all daytime events if accompanied by an adult.  The evening concert is for over 18’s and will run from 7pm to late with tickets priced at £23 (+ Booking Fee).   Tickets for the launch festival on the 31^st March are available from www.titanic-lockdown.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

To find out more log onto www.titanic-lockdown.com, follow us on twitter @TitanicLockdown (#titaniclockdown) or like us on facebook at Titanic Lockdown.

Web Links:

www.titanic-lockdown.com

Twitter: @TitanicLockdown #titaniclockdown #nimusic

Facebook: Titanic Lockdown

www.hydroponicmusic.com

On Sunday the 28^th October 2012 The Civil Wars will play the Mandela Hall, Belfast as part of Open House Concerts.

Civil Wars’ Joy Williams and John Paul White had a chance meeting a year and a half ago and something magical started.  Since releasing their debut album ‘Barton Hollow’, the Indie-folk/Americana duo have won two Grammy awards (‘Best Folk Album’ and ‘Best Country Due/Group Performance’), sold out London’s Union Chapel (via word of mouth alone) and given a breathtaking debut performance on Later With Jools Holland.

Their music fuses elements of folk, country and bluegrass with songs exploring the conflicts that arise in relationships.  In it’s entirety ‘Barton Hollow’ flows, telling a story and you’re lifted up to join their journey.  Williams’ tone, likened to Alison Krauss, is perfectly complimented by White and the music very much feels like it has its roots, in the roots music sound.   The music is modest, minimalist, and their bare-bones live arrangements need no fleshing out.  It’s in their haunting harmonies that this duo transcend.

Along with their Europe and US tour, the duo have collaborated with T Bone Burnett on the soulful score for Finding North (a documentary investigating hunger experienced by millions of people across America)

‘…they make my heart hurt but make it a bit stronger at the same time too’ Adele

‘…through bands such as The Civil Wars, a new music industry is born’ Los Angeles Times

Tickets are £17 available from https://openhouseconcerts.ticketsolve.com/shows/126523454/events