A Ballycastle man behind a campaign calling for lower speed limits in residential areas has said he is disappointed that no progress has been made on the issue. Philip Robinson decided to take action after his young daughter was almost knocked down by a motorist outside their home in the Leyland... Read More

THERE was dramatic scenes at a popular North coast tourist attraction on Sunday afternoon when an injured walker had to be airlifted to safety. The 66-year-old was rescued near the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge by the Irish Coastguard helicopter after she injured her leg in a fall at around 3pm. The... Read More

NEW uncertainty surrounds the future of residential care for older people after the Health Minister halted plans to close homes. Edwin Poots intervened after huge public outcry at proposals which would have seen all NHS care homes closed in some areas. The Northern Health and Social Care Trust had... Read More

BALLYMONEY Cycling Club's Biesty's Centra Racing Team riders took local and national cycling by the scruff of the neck with five wins, a second and a third place recently. The week started at the local Bann Wheelers 25 mile road race on the Collins circuit in Aghadowey where the BCC Biesty's Centra... Read More

THE Friends of the Roddens group have said that they are 'absolutely shattered and disappointed' by the news that the Ballymoney residential care home is to close and have promised to campaign vigorously against the move. Last Friday the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Board put their paper... Read More

HUNDREDS of people attended a candle lit anti-drugs vigil in Ballycastle on Sunday evening. The event was chaired by local Sinn Fein Councillor Cara McShane, and featured an emotional speech by Meghan O'Neill - younger sister of Kevin O'Neill who died just over a week ago after being stabbed in the... Read More

A NEW committee has been formed by members of the horse community who want to make local roads a safer place to hack. While horses and livestock are a regular occurrence on our roads, riders have said they are becoming a more and more hazardous place for them. “It's very upsetting when you... Read More

TWELVE pupils from St Patrick's and St Brigid's Primary School in Ballycastle teamed up with Ballycastle Cycling Club coaches Paul O'Neill and Peter McGrattan on Friday to take part in one of Cycling Ireland's foundation cycling skills programme, 'The Sprocket Rocket'. Sprocket Rocket is a cycling... Read More

The grieving parents of Kevin O'Neill have said his death has left a huge hole in their hearts which will never be filled. Danny and Mary Margaret spoke to The Chronicle on Monday, just 24 hours after their son was stabbed to death in a house in the Stroanshesk area of Ballycastle. It is believed... Read More

THREE north Antrim hurlers were presented with their Danske Bank Ulster Colleges' Hurling All-star awards at a gala ceremony in the Europa Hotel, Belfast last Friday night. Cross and Passion College duo Ryan McCambridge and Saul McCaughan and St Killian's College student Eamonn Kearns were among 15... Read More

BALLYCASTLE'S Cycling Club's One Mile Sprint TT League, proudly sponsored by The Bay Cafe, had 12 testers compete in the first of four rounds on the Whitepark Road circuit. Gary Maybin adapted well to the lumpy circuit and took the stiff headwind in his stride finishing in top spot in an impressive... Read More

A total of 20 buildings across Moyle have been transformed using funding from the Department of the Environment. It is hoped that the 'dereliction funding', which saw £100,000 allocated to the area, will kick-start a busy summer season. So far, the scheme has been widely welcomed and local... Read More

The Minister for the Environment has confirmed that a new hotel development in Ballycastle will not have to go through the full planning process again. There had been fears it would be subject to re-evaluation on the insistence of the local planning office, after the plans were altered to include a... Read More

BALLYCASTLE United U13s booked their place in the Coleraine and District Youth League Cup Final thanks to a penalty shootout win against Bertie Peacocks Coleraine on Saturday. Missing a number of regular key players, the Ballycastle team stepped up to the plate to record one of their greatest wins... Read More

Sinn Féin recently organised a Business Breakfast to bring together local businesses and Invest NI. The event in Ballycastle was well attended, with representation from a diverse range of businesses throughout the town and local area. North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay said: "The purpose of this... Read More

Shoppers and businesses across Moyle are getting used to the new carrier bag fee, which came into force this week. Retailers must now charge customers at least five pence for every single use carrier bag that they use. The levy, which applies to both plastic and paper bags, will go to the Department... Read More

Further jobs at The Marine in Ballycastle will be advertised in the coming weeks as its much anticipated reopening moves another step closer. The hotel will be run by Armoy business woman Claire Hunter and her business partners Colum McLornan and John O'Carroll. Together they have over 40 years of... Read More

DALRIADA'S Year 8 netball team have enjoyed recent success in the North East NEBSSA final which took place last week. To reach the final the girls had overcome a number of schools including Magherafelt High, Dunclug College and Cross and Passion, Ballycastle. On the day of the final, Dalriada were... Read More

ST. PATRICK'S Day saw the first trophy of the year on offer and 71 competitors battled it out for the Louis Sweeney Cup. After some superb scoring, it was the Belfast-based law man Jim McCann (25) who emerged as winner with a super 47 points and retained the trophy which he won for the first time... Read More

THE PJ McIlroy & Sons Winter League came to a close on a blustery cold weekend at Ballycastle and after nine weeks of changing fortunes it was Team Shangarry who finally secured the top spot. Team Captain Declan McCarry lead his troops by example and his team members Philip Cullen, Gerard Dowds,... Read More

It is now just a number of days until the King of the Castle winner is eventually revealed. After weeks of campaigning, there is very little left for the four candidates to do before the victor is crowned at the Camógie club's annual Green Party at Paírc MacUílin in Ballycastle on Saturday night... Read More

There has been new controversy surrounding Cardinal Keith O'Brien after he admitted there have been times when his 'sexual conduct' fell below the standards expected of him. In a statement released at the weekend, the Ballycastle born cleric, who until recently held the highest position in Britain's... Read More

MY return to work after nine months maternity leave wasn't a difficult decision. I always knew I would want my own wee piece of independence after becoming a mammy - allow me the opportunity to be Gemma and do what I love doing. Maternity leave, as many mothers will appreciate, is a reflective... Read More

A local computer science student has been awarded a place on a prestigious Scholarship Programme worth up to £25,000. Andrew Fletcher from Ballycastle is one of four top students selected for the programme by leading Belfast based IT software and telecoms services provider, Asidua. Launched in 2008... Read More

A veteran member of Ballycastle Scouts has issued an appeal for new leaders to join the organisation. The group, who are officially known as the 1st Antrim Scouts, has a rich history in the town dating back to 1929. Local postman Brian Hill has been involved with the movement for the past three... Read More

Ballycastle's first Winter Wonderland, held on December 21 - 23 in Brady's old supermarket on Castle Street was a huge success. The group starting working on the project from an idea that was discussed at one of the many meetings, held after the summer. The major headache for the group was how to... Read More

If you're up for the challenge and want to serve your community and help to save lives there are vacancies for volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officers in the Ballycastle Coastguard Rescue team. If you live or work in the area and would like to learn more then please come along to our recruitment... Read More

The Republican Network for Unity in North Antrim have announced their intention to lead local resistance to any plans by Providence Resources to exploit oil resources on or around Rathlin Island. Speaking at a meeting of local activists in Ballycastle on Saturday afternoon, Deaglan MacGualraic... Read More

Sledging and snow drifts were enjoyed and endured in Moyle over the weekend thanks to the first snowfall of winter. While the white stuff has been along awaited by many, especially after an usually mild Christmas, for others it was an unwelcome sight. On Friday night, some drivers on the Hill Side... Read More

SATURDAY fixtures were severely hit by the weather conditions however the 2nd XI were able to travel to North Down and achieved a 1:1 draw giving them another valuable point. Generally the club is doing well at this mid way point in the season. The 1st XI have a sound mid table position and with... Read More

Ballymoney United boss John Fall praised his team's spirit after they came from behind to grab a 1-1 draw with Moyola Park at Riada Stadium on Saturday. After falling behind after just a quarter of an hour, Gerd Gillan slotted home after an excellent team move to draw Fall's men level just 10... Read More

The members of the Causeway Judo club and AVT MMA got back on the mats with a vengeance as the New Year brought the opportunity to get back into training both to compete and get fit again after the Christmas break. With MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and Judo offered in Ballycastle, Benvardin and... Read More

Requests for traffic calming measures near Leyland Farm in Ballycastle have been turned down by Roads Service. Local Councillors had asked for the issue to be looked at following a campaign by residents living in the area. They argued that the straight stretch of road did not nothing to deter... Read More

A number of clubs are looking forward to take part in a first-of-its-kind 9-a-side U14 Speed Camogie League in Ballycastle later this month. McQuillans Ballycastle, Loughgiel, Dunloy, Bridini Oga, Ruairi Og Cushendall, Portglenone Geraldines, Eoghan Rua Coleraine and Swatragh have all signed up for... Read More

Ballycastle girl Sarah Maguire is about to say goodbye to North Antrim and 'Namaste' to what will be her new temporary home in Rajasthan, India. On Friday, January 4 Sarah's friends and family gathered in Bakewell's Bar (Tessies) to give Sarah a surprise farewell send off and to wish her good luck... Read More

BALLYMENA United captain Allan Jenkins says his side owes the Showgrounds fans a winning favour when they tackle 'derby' rivals Coleraine at home on Boxing Day (3pm). Jenkins has very bad memories of the last time they tangled at Ballycastle Road back on September 22 - the result, and the serious... Read More

ST KILLIAN'S Garron Tower, Cross and Passion and St Louis Ballymena took part in a Year 8 hurling blitz on Monday 17th December in Dunloy Sports Academy. With St Louis and Cross and Passion both entering two teams, it meant plenty of game time for all players with 4 group matches each. St Louis 1... Read More

From Suffragettes to the Spice Girls and burning braziers to bold ballads, the empowerment of women has long been a cause as emotive as it has been worthy. For three local ladies however, the idea of being in chains is definitely not perceived as being a backwards step, particularly when the chains... Read More

The sound of hooves clattering through the streets is something of a novelty in this day and age, but that's what people in Ballycastle would have heard last week when a troop of horses and riders made their way to the beach for the first ever Big Beach Ride. Eight horses and riders gathered at... Read More

A good turnout attended a public meeting recently to hear proposed regeneration plans for Ballycastle town centre, and in particular the conservation areas of Castle Street and Clare Street. Councillor Donal Cunningham, who is the Chairperson of the 'Revitalise Ballycastle' steering group, welcomed... Read More

The Moyle Base 'Drop In' Centre at Castle Street in Ballycastle has officially opened its doors. The new building offers adults with a learning disability a bright, spacious and homely place to meet, make friends and more importantly use community facilities within their local area. The Moyle Base... Read More

CAUSEWAY Judo Club received a visit from one of its biggest supporters last week, Ballymoney Independent councillor, Roma McAfee. She was there to congratulate the club on their recent successes during what has been a memorable year for Causeway Judo Club. Cllr McAfee is a fervent supporter of the... Read More

BALLYCASTLE Ladies Golf Club held their annual awards ceremony last week. Winners on the night were: Golfer of the Year - MT McKiernan, Dolphin Cup - Ettaline Wasson Merriel Knight Trophy - K McGowan Bladud Cup - MT McKiernan Bladud Challenge Bowl - B Hegerty Kenmara Cup - B McNeill Shangarry Bowl... Read More

ONE of North Antrim's most distinguished hurlers has been honoured by Moyle Sports Advisory Committee at the annual awards event on Saturday night. Daniel McNaughton, who passed away while playing for his beloved club Ruairi Og, Cushendall, in July 1996, was posthumously awarded the Outstanding... Read More

Dominic McCurdy sailed on his final voyage as Skipper last Tuesday afternoon on the MV Canna. Dominic was born on Rathlin almost 65 years ago. His birthday is New Year's Day so his birth must have been a celebration for Rathlin since it was at the end of the war and the world was looking hopefully... Read More

St Patrick's and St Brigid's Primary School and Nursery Unit in Ballycastle is the first school in the North Eastern Education & Library Board to be awarded the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Award. The school secured the award thanks to the welcoming approach from staff, pupils, parents, and all... Read More

It was standing room only in Sheskburn last Wednesday night as hundreds of people turned up at a National Park public meeting. The only spare seat was at the top table - which organisers had hoped would be filled by the Environment Minister Alex Attwood. His absence did not deter the general... Read More

Pressure is mounting on the Environment Minister to drop plans for a National Park along the Causeway Coast and Glens. A record crowd attended a public meeting on the issue in Ballycastle last week, which the organisers have said is a clear sign that a Park is not wanted in the area. Mr Attwood was... Read More

IT'S time to start getting your nominations in for the 17th Moyle Sports Advisory Annual Awards Dinner 2012 which will take place on Saturday, December 1. After an absence in 2011, the awards are back again and former Ireland Rugby International Trevor Ringland will be the evening's special guest... Read More

Ballycastle has done the double when it comes to looking its best after winning a 'Best Kept' title for the second year in a row. The 'capital of Moyle' has been named Best Kept Small Town in the prestigious scheme, which follows on from success in the same category last year. The awards are... Read More

The Auld Lammas Fair Photographs, the long awaited new book from Portrush photographer Alastair McCook, will be launched in Ballycastle Library this Thursday, November 1, from 6pm - 7.30pm. The book contains over 120 pages of black and white photographs covering over 25 years in the history of the... Read More

THIS year's Armoy Road Race looks set to be bigger and better than ever with the announcement that RiverRidge Recycling are back on board as title sponsor for the July event. The Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club (AMRRC) has worked steadily over the past four years to put on one of the country's... Read More

If a picture is worth a thousand words - then these pictures of Armoy man Eddie Mc Lean could be big news around Armoy! Eddie does great work in Armoy. And with the grass cutting just about to start, it would be terrible if Eddie were to move to pastures new! Eddie has worked for the Armoy... Read More

A DELEGATION from the Isle of Sky were in Ballymoney last week for a business meeting to explore the further development of the Clan Donald Tourism Trail in the North Antrim Area. The meeting was hosted by Ballymoney and Moyle Council at Riada house on Tuesday February 18 after the delegation opened... Read More

NORTH ANTRIM MLA Mervyn Storey has requested a meeting with the Environment Minister Alex Attwood after it emerged that Ballymoney has yet again been unsuccessful in a bid to secure a portion of a £1million funding package - just days after Ballymoney High School failed to get on the Education... Read More

A Ballintoy lady has appealed for information about the whereabouts of a missing 'wag on the wall' clock. The clock belongs to Kathleen McMullan and it is thought that it went missing during recent renovations at her home on Main Street in the village. Explaining the situation, Sinn Fein Councillor... Read More

THE IRFU (Ulster Branch) has teamed up with the Donnelly Motor Group to provide a platform for local rugby clubs to help themselves raise, potentially, over £350,000 for grassroots rugby. The 'Your Club Your Country' initiative will enable the 44 registered rugby clubs in Northern Ireland,... Read More

Coach John Andrews accepts Ballymena RFC First XV are favourites for First Trust Ulster Senior Cup glory on Wednesday at Ravenhill (7.30pm). But he makes it very clear he will not tolerate complacency against Rainey Old Boys. “Yes, we are favourites, but we must treat them with respect," Andrews... Read More

FANS of the world-wide TV hit, 'Game of Thrones' may soon be touring north coast locations where the epic fantasy adventure was filmed. The HBO series based on George RR Martin's books has attracted an audience of millions since it first hit the small screen two years ago. Production is based in... Read More

THERE was no luck for either of the Dalriada teams - either at Under-16 or Under-18 level - in the All Ireland finals which were held recently at Jordanstown. Their opponents in both finals was St. Mary's from Dublin After much anticipation of the day the girls had gathered a good degree of support... Read More

A LARGE crowd gathered at Ballymoney Town Hall on Friday night for an event like no other - it was the graduation of those involved in the Best Buddies Ambassadors training programme! One could be forgiven for thinking they were at the premier of a Hollywood movie with the likes of George Clooney as... Read More

HEALTH officials will spend the next six months considering the future of Causeway Hospital, according to Minister Edwin Poots. The Minister revealed he has asked officials to draw up "a detailed options appraisal" on management and services in response to an Assembly question tabled by East... Read More

The Showgrounds clear-out is underway - with two players listed, one released and one not having his contract renewed, writes Shaun O'Neill. Ballymena United manager Glenn Ferguson has put defenders Chris Rodgers and Richard Vauls on offer to other clubs. Young William Bingham, who made his first... Read More

Cargin remained the only unbeaten side in Division 1 of the Antrim football leagues after their sixth round midweek game against Parish rivals Kickham's Creggan in the local derby affair at Toome. The home side certainly have been impressive to date, although it must be noted that this, 0-11 to 0-8,... Read More

DOWNSHIRE School Hockey teams have had an amazing season this year winning leagues at every age group and lifting silverware in the Northern Ireland High Schools Cup competition. Pupils from each year group from Year 8 through to Year14 trained hard each week with the aim of producing their best... Read More

TO COMMEMORATE her maternal Grandfather's 100th birthday and to thank the Salvation Army for saving his life during the Easter Tuesday Belfast Blitz in 1941, local Whitehead artist Joanne Campbell has painted an acrylic painting entitled 'The Belfast Blitzes' to be presented to the Salvation Army at... Read More

KILBRIDE Cyclists held their annual charity cycle on Saturday, with over 115 riders in attendance. After waiting for the rain clearing Netwownabbey mayor Victor Robinson was there to see the cyclists off on their 56 miles challenge around some of Co. Antrim's most challenging roads. With a welcome... Read More

Larne - 1, Ballyclare - 6: THE last time these two teams met at the Valley it was stalemate at the final whistle so Ballyclare had something to prove this morning as so far they have only lost one game and drawn two in the whole season. In only the second minute Scott Wilson picked up a beautiful... Read More

WILL it be a case of third time lucky for Ballymoney Ladies? The 'Toon finally get to face old rivals Pegasus in the final of the Ulster Shield this Wednesday after the showpiece occasion has twice been postponed. The final was originally to have been played at the turn of the year but fell victim... Read More

THE MASSIVE changes planned for local government took a significant step forward last week with the publishing of the Provisional Recommendations for the make-up and naming of District Electoral Areas. The proposals, if implemented will impact greatly on local politics and on the way people in some... Read More

CLLR Paul Frew DUP MLA for North Antrim has praised the work and commitment of local football coaches who give up many hours in order to coach and train young people in the sport of football. Frew stated, "I have no doubts of the benefits of youth football and how it can change lives for the better... Read More

BALLYMONEY'S Michael Dunlop continued his preparation for next weekend's North West 200 by securing a Superbike double at Saturday's Tandragee 100 meeting. The Ballymoney rider cruised to a 26-second victory in the Open race before winning the feature Tandragee 100 race at the Co Armagh circuit. His... Read More

THE victim of a weekend road accident near Portrush was a 56-year-old grandfather from Ballerin. He died following a collision between a white Peugeot Expert van and a yellow Mercedes tow truck on the Ballybogey Road last Saturday at around 5.20pm. A second man was taken to hospital with injuries... Read More

Ballymena United Youth Under-11's are the newly crowned Northern Ireland champions! On Monday they scored a dramatic victory over Glentoran at the Showgrounds, the game having to go to a penalty shoot-out before being decided. ‘Keeper William Crockard was the hero of the day, saving two spot-kicks... Read More

Harryville Homers dreams of lifting the Coca Coca Junior Cup were shattered on Bank Holiday Monday with Strathroy Harps romping home to a 3-0 victory. The Saturday Morning League side, recently crowned Division 1 League champions, know they were guilty of a number of missed chances in the first half... Read More

Ballymena's Under 17 rugby team take another major step in their remarkable development when they run out in the Ulster Cup Final at Ravenhill on Saturday. The boys will play Dromore and will be hoping to bring their recent excellent form into the final. Coached by Matthew Banks, Tom Wiggins and... Read More

A police raid on a multi-million pound cannabis factory near Ahoghill last week has been described as a "massive blow" to organised crime gangs. Cannabis plants with an estimated street value of £450,000 were seized by officers from the PSNI's Organised Crime Branch last Tuesday. The find followed... Read More

Racing returns to Nutts Corner Raceway on Sunday (May 12) with the mighty 2L Saloon Stock Cars 2013 Irish Open Championship topping the bill. At the time of writing a very strong list of visiting drivers are booked into race for the prestigious title. The visiting challenge is headed by World... Read More

Local mountain bike riders turned out in force to pit their skills against a new course during the inaugural Davagh Enduro 2013. The race was the first event of its kind to be held at Davagh Forest, near Cookstown, and it was a sell out with 150 riders taking to the stages. Over the weekend there... Read More

And those concerns have been underlined once again this week with the release of the Provisional Recommendations by District Electoral Area Commissioner Richard Mackenzie. This side of the constituency may get top billing in the new 'Antrim and Newtownabbey Local Government District', but that's... Read More

An Antrim teenager, who was 'kicked in the head' in a vicious assault in August 2011 was 'very close to death' when paramedics reached him, Antrim Crown Court heard last week. Antrim men Colin Kingsbury, Kyle Samuel Taggart and Nathan Wilson, all 24, were bailed to addresses outside the town before... Read More

IN A week when some Larne AC members were resting after having completed the Virgin London Marathon, or are taking it easy in preparation for upcoming 26.2 mile events in Belfast and Cincinnati (USA); others were racing over roads, trails and mountains throughout the province. On Tuesday, the club... Read More

Carrick U13s 4, Oxford Sunnyside U13s 3: CARRICK Rangers U13s sponsored by Nambarrie Tea and RD Mechanical Services Ltd faced Oxford Sunnyside for their last league game this season. Carrick started with the wind against them but this didn't stop them from passing the ball, attacking and defending... Read More

MLA for East Antrim Alastair Ross has received notice from the Minister for Regional Development, Danny Kennedy, that a permanent footbridge will be installed at Jordanstown Station by 2016. Speaking after confirmation in an Assembly Question Mr Ross, who has pressed for the re-introduction of the... Read More

WHITEHEAD Primary school clinched the U10 Hiditch Shield in emphatic style at Carrickfergus Amphitheatre in style last Wednesday with impressive performances and victories over Victoria (3-0); Woodlawn (2-1); Greenisland (1-0) and Model ( 1-O). Whitehead Team was Joel Reid, Alex Norris, Scott Swann,... Read More

FAIRVIEW Primary School were celebrating this week after getting the stamp of approval from inspectors following a recent visit to the school. In March, experts from the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) visited Fairview to evaluate the quality of education with the school being awarded... Read More

IRATE parents and young people found themselves becoming break-in artists after turning up at Sixmilewater Park's play area last Bank Holiday Monday - only to find it locked up. The play park was a popular destination on a dry May Day, but people were startled to find the gates were padlocked, with... Read More

CONSERVATION enthusiasts have acted quickly to protect a yearly visitor to Ballyclare after the destruction of a town centre site threatened to leave annual migrating swifts homeless. Local bird watchers welcome the intrepid flyers every year, as they make their way to Northern Ireland - and... Read More

WORK is now underway on the new community facilities in Dervock. The £1m scheme will include a new community centre, plus adjacent new changing facilities and pitches to IFA Intermediate League standard at Dervock Recreation Grounds. Council has appointed Castlewellan Construction firm, Maghera... Read More

'BALLYMONEY is dying on its feet' and needs a new body 'prepared to be dangerous and courageous' - that is the opinion of one local architect disturbed at the heart health figures reported last week. One week on from the news that the town has the second worst heart disease rate in the UK,... Read More

BALLYMONEY'S Michael Dunlop clinched a Cookstown 100 double, with victories in the 10-lap feature race and the Open event at the county Tyrone venue at the weekend. Dunlop broke the course lap record on several occasions on the way to overhauling early leader Guy Martin in the main race of a... Read More

Care workers in Ballymena, looking after some of the Borough's most vulnerable citizens, have warned the service could be decimated unless planned "savage" cuts to their mileage allowances are stopped in their tracks. The warning comes as the community reels from the shock plan to close Pinewood... Read More

A former prisoner has praised the staff of the Simon Community at Millhouse in Harryville for helping him get his life back on track. Dessie McClements, who is 49, has been in and out of prison over the years and is also alcohol dependent. However along with staff from the Simon Community, the... Read More

Gary Blair's commanding run at Nutts Corner continues as the Antrim man recorded another two victories in the Brisca F2s. As the 14 cars took to the track for the opening heat of the evening rain showers were threatening to dampen proceedings. Trevor Moore was an early casualty, spinning out on... Read More

South Antrim Assemblyman David Ford may still be a Minister at Stormont, but as of this week he is no longer an Elder at his beloved Second Donegore Presbyterian Church. The congregation has been informed that the Alliance leader 'stepped aside' because of mounting unease about his Party's support... Read More

The dark shadow of paramilitary terror fell over Antrim's Steeple estate once again this week, when a major security alert drove scores of families from their homes. Police and army bomb disposal experts made the familiar journey to Mallusk Gardens following the discovery of a suspect device. It is... Read More

Waiting times at Antrim Area Hospital's A&E; Department have steadily deteriorated over the course of the past 12 months, the Antrim Guardian can reveal. The latest statistics released by the Department of Health for the last three months of the 2012-13 financial year saw the already struggling A&E;... Read More

THE last time the Knights played the Dublin Rhinos, the Knights escaped Dublin with a 2-0 win. Points have always been hard to come by when these teams collide, so when the Knights scored an early touchdown on Sunday at Carrick Rugby Club, they thought that they would cruise to a victory. It wasn't... Read More

A MILLION pound Carrickfergus mansion complete with indoor heated pool, a library and wine cellar is set to go under the hammer for just £100,000. The 10,000 sq ft luxury pad at Prince Andrew Way also boasts seven bedrooms, six bathrooms, a security perimiter and a stunning view of Belfast Lough.... Read More

A £769,751 project part financed by the European Union's European Regional Development Fund through the INTERREG IVA cross border Programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body and delivered by the North East Partnership and Údarás na Gaeltachta was launched in September 2012. The... Read More

NI Water is currently engaged in an on-going process of improving and upgrading the water supply infrastructure in the Carrickfergus area. The next phase of this work is scheduled to commence on the 13 May and the majority of work will take place in the Eden village area of Carrickfergus. Work will... Read More

PSNI 1, Ballyclare Comrades 5: PROLIFIC striker Chris Shimmon struck four times as Comrades took a big step towards sealing the second promotion spot in Championship 2 with a victory at PSNI, which was comfortable in the end, after a nervy first half hour when the home team looked dangerous. Eddie... Read More

BALLYCLARE R.F.C. 1st XV concluded their best season for several years on Saturday at the Cloughan in the final league game of Qualifying 2 when local rivals Larne were the visitors in need of at least a point to stave off a play off to prevent relegation. This game was also for the Annual Hall... Read More

BALLYCLARE Comrades are gearing up for a tense final day of the season, as the squad prepare for the visit of Wakehurst in the knowledge that a win or a draw will see the club ascend to Championship 1 for next season. Comrades are within touching distance of promotion out of Championship 2, after... Read More

MAJOR insurance company Legal & General have said they are working hard to settle the plight of the McVey family who were forced from their home in January following a sewage flood over four months ago. As reported in the Gazette over the past couple of weeks, Catherine McVey and her three sons are... Read More

BALLYMONEY Cycling Club's 'Biesty's Centra' Racing Team riders enjoyed a third, fourth and 10th placings in weekend action in the north and south of Ireland. At the Stamullen GP in Co. Meath, under 16 rider Ryan Orr, just back from riding in the Youth Tour of Scotland, secured third place in this... Read More

IT was a week of mixed results for Glebe Rangers who recorded a 2-1 win over Chimney Corner last Tuesday night but then fell to a 2-1 defeat to Lurgan Celtic on Saturday as their run-in to the end of the Championship Two season continues. While the victory over Chimney Corner put another three... Read More

BALLYMONEY motorcyling ace Michael Dunlop's inaugural Bol d'Or 24 hour race ended in disappointment when his Honda TT Legends team was forced to retire with just a few hours left at the Magny Cours circuit in France. It was the first time the team had to withdraw from a 24 hour race, breaking its... Read More

BALLYMONEY brothers Aaron and John McLean have both won their respective grades at this years Ulster Pipe Band Drumming Solo's held in Monkstown on Saturday April 20. Aaron a former two time Junior Ulster Champion won the Intermediate section and John the current Under 14 World Champion was... Read More

BILLY Coleman Award nominee Josh Moffett and local team-mate John Rowan narrowly missed out on the Production Class spoils at round two of the Dunlop National Rally Championship on Sunday. They finished the Hillgrove Hotel Monaghan Stages Rally just 3.4 seconds behind eventual Group N winners Martin... Read More

GLENRAVEL golfer Liam Reilly has just secured his Euro Pro Tour full ranking card! The 24-year-old Galgorm Castle Golf Club touring professional is thrilled at acquiring it. “It's really a case of third time lucky," he told Guardian Sport. “Unfortunately on both previous occasions I did not come... Read More

BALLYMENA United 'keeper Dwayne Nelson has signed at new two-year contract, writes Shaun O'Neill. The 28-year-old, who on Saturday night will collect the Seven Towers Supporters Club 'Player of the Year' award, put pen to paper at the weekend. Manager Glenn Ferguson is pleased to have the... Read More

FORMER World boxing champion Eamonn Loughran has relived the nightmare of the longest three hours of his life, thinking his wife Angela may have been caught up in the Boston Marathon bombing last week. “I honestly feared the worst," an emotional Eamonn told the Guardian. “It was three hours... Read More

A BALLYMENA man has spoken of the moment he knew something was "very wrong" on the streets of Boston last week as marathon runners crossed the finish line. Tom Mills, who travelled to the city with the Ballymena Runners club had finished the 26.2 miles and was back at his hotel getting cleaned up... Read More

PRESSURE is mounting on Justice Minister David Ford to stand down as an Elder of Second Donegore Presbyterian Church over his party's controversial support of gay marriage, the Antrim Guardian can reveal. The Presbyterian Church is vehemently opposed to the union of same sex couples, claiming that... Read More

A YOUNG kick-boxing enthusiast from Carrickfergus has been hitting the heights in recent weeks as he continues to pick up awards thanks to his efforts in the sport. On Sunday past, Bradley, a 12-year-old pupil at Downshire School travelled to Dublin where he competed in and won one of the... Read More

CARRICK RANGERS 0, LOUGHGALL 0: NOT ONE that will nestle too long in the memory, with any lingering hope that Carrick Rangers might gatecrash the race for that coveted playoff spot is surely over after this scoreless stalemate with Loughgall at Taylor's Avenue. Rangers were without Conor McCloskey,... Read More

LARNE AC athletes were in action last weekend, taking part in races spanning the length and breadth of the country and over various terrains. On Friday night, five club members took part in the NiRunning Mile at Antrim Stadium. Phelim McAllister was the fastest of the Larne based runners, clocking... Read More

KNOCKAGH Wrestling Club, based in Greenisland have won at total of five medals, including two gold, three silver and one bronze, at the British Novice Wrestling Championships Held in Stockton England last week. This is the next crop of young wrestlers coming through from the very successful... Read More

THE Mayor of Carrickfergus was confronted in the street by an angry businessman last week during a high profile visit to the town by two Stormont ministers. The incident happened in North Street last Thursday when Mayor Billy Ashe was showing ministers Danny Kennedy and Nelson McCausland the... Read More

THE Railway Preservation Society of Ireland has hosted a visit by the Chairman of the Northern Ireland Transport Holding Company to the Society's Whitehead steam train base. John Trethowan, chairman of the Holding Company, the parent company of Translink, was accompanied by board member James Brown... Read More

Ballysillan U14 2, Carrick Rangers Colts U14 9: CARRICK Rangers Colts U14 made the trip to Westland to take on Ballysillan. With Carrick and Carnmoney now level on points at the top of the league but Carnmoney having played all their games, this was the opportunity Carrick had been waiting for to... Read More

A STRAID woman appointed to head up the strategic efforts of a new Northern Irish philanthropy organisation says she is hoping it will be able to get people giving more. Sandara Kelso-Robb has been appointed strategic advisor to Giving Northern Ireland, which launched two weeks ago to coincide with... Read More

BALLYMONEY Show was officially launched last week at an Annual Sponsors Reception held at Lissanoure Castle, Loughguile. A warm welcome was gladly received as officials, sponsors and press representatives were greeted by the roaring fire in the reception area. A special word of thanks was dedicated... Read More

LAST Monday (April 8th) saw 'B Day' in Ballymoney with the introduction of the new 5p levy on every single use plastic bag. Widespread publicity ensured we all knew what was happening but this doesn't convey the whole story or how we can adapt to a life with fewer plastic bags. The figures speak... Read More

A ROW erupted during last night's (Monday's) council meeting over a decision to fly the Union flag half mast on Wednesday in honour of Lady Thatcher's funeral. The motion to erect the flag was proposed by Cllr Robinson, however it was announced devoid after Chief Executive John Dempsey confirmed... Read More

THE acting Principal of Dunluce School has led tributes to a Ballyrock pupil who passed away on Monday after losing his fight against cancer. 12-year-old Darren Moore, who was diagnosed with Leukaemia last Christmas, was a "kind" and "generous" person and someone who had made a lasting impression... Read More

Donegal Celtic 1 Ballymena U. 4 Ballymena delivered a decisive blow in DC's hopes of surviving in the Premiership. United fought back from conceding a goal inside two minutes, then nicked an own-goal before adding two more from strikers Gary Liggett and Shane Dolan and one from sub Alan... Read More

Ballymena is in line to host a prestigious national pre-season football tournament, which could bring some of the game's biggest stars to the Borough! The Showgrounds is on a shortlist of potential venues for the four team competition, which would held held in July shortly before the Milk Cup comes... Read More

Almost seven years after the brutal murder of Catholic schoolboy, Michael McIlveen, in Ballymena town centre, two of his killers have admitted their guilt and been jailed for life. On the third day of their Belfast Crown Court trial, barristers for 26-year-old Christopher Francis Kerr and Aaron... Read More

Nine Juniors took to the track at Nutts Corner for the first heat with the debut of 958 Shea Duff in his immaculate Vauxhall Corsa which was on display at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham back in January. It was not long before the red flags were out and flying, however, as young Duff... Read More

The Mayor of Antrim has spoken of his 'deep sadness' that ill health forced him to abandon plans to attend the funeral of a troubled woman whose life changed forever following the murderous attack on Massereene Barracks. Four years have now passed since Mark Quinsey and Patrick Azimkar died in a... Read More

Seven long years after he was battered to death, the family of a former Antrim schoolboy have finally got the justice they craved. Fifteen-year-old Michael McIlveen died in May 2006 following a brutal and nakedly sectarian attack. Two Ballymena men were convicted of the cold-blooded killing back in... Read More

Carrick Ladies 1, Randalstown Ladies 3: CARRICK Ladies 1sts suffered cup-final heartbreak as Randalstown maintained their increasingly strong hold on the McConnell Shield trophy on Saturday afternoon, defeating the Senior Two challengers by a 3-1 scoreline at Lisnagarvey. While the flow of the game... Read More

A CARRICKFERGUS school has topped the table for the highest A-Level success rate for post-primary schools across Northern Ireland. Ulidia Intergated College was ranked at number one spot after seeing 97.1% for its pupils secure three A-Levels grades A* to C - jumping 52 places from last year as well... Read More

Ballyclare 29-5 Bangor BALLYCLARE 1st XV inflicted the heaviest defeat of the year on major rivals Bangor on Saturday, but the significance of the 29-5 win was overshadowed by the fact that the North Down side had managed to wrap up the league title earlier in the week before arriving at The... Read More

BALLYCLARE enjoyed a resounding 29-5 win over promotion rivals Bangor on Saturday, avenging the defeat they had suffered last month, however the result was not enough to alter the direction of the league title. The side also fell victim to another key result elsewhere on Saturday, as Portadown's... Read More

REPAIRING potholes on the Ballycorr Road could lead to further complaints about heavy traffic use on the narrow country road, South Antrim MLA Danny Kinahan has said. Mr Kinahan said that he had been contacted by residents who are keen to see several potholes on a section of the road repaired, but... Read More

IT WAS a case of all change at the top as Ballyclare Chamber of Trade elected a new President at their AGM, held in Barnaby's in Ballyrobert on Monday night. Alison Thompson, proprietor of The Beautician in the town, was voted in as new President to replace the outgoing Darren Black, owner of the... Read More

THE Ballymoney Ladies Rugby Team, skippered by Gill Powell, suffered an agonising 13-5 defeat in the final of this year's Ulster Women's Development League Cup at Randalstown R.F.C. on Sunday, as a determined Carrick proved just a little too strong for the girls in blue. Before the game got... Read More

If the weekend prior to Easter belonged to the Duffin Transport North Antrim Racing Team's Bryan McKinney, Easter belonged to his fellow Aghadowey team-mate Devon McIlwaine. Along With Niall O'Hagan and Craig Crawford the three headed to Galway to race the Rás Chonamara three-day stage race. The... Read More

TWO soft goals helped Lurgan Celtic to all three points against Ballymoney United at Knockramer Park last Tuesday evening. The Championship Two promotion chasers held a 2-0 lead at the break and as Ballymoney pushed for the game's third goal, it came for the home side to effectively kill the tie.... Read More

THE RATES divide that emerged in Ballymoney DUP back in February has re-emerged as two DUP Councillors have supported a senior council officer's 'discontent' at losing funding as a result of an amendment originally proposed by another DUP Councillor. Back on February 11 a last minute amendment to... Read More

Ballymena United striker Gary Liggett has asked the fans to give him time - and he promises he will deliver, writes Shaun O'Neill. The former Lisburn Distillery hit-man got a confidence boost on Easter Tuesday with a double strike against Portadown at the Showgrounds. And he hopes to finish off the... Read More

The recently deposed minister of Cairnalbana Presbyterian Church, the Rev Stephen Dickinson, has said he will put his faith in the Lord to guide his future. As the Guardian exclusively revealed last week, the Presbyterian Church, has removed the Rev Dickinson and all of the elders of Cairnalbana... Read More

As the row deepens over the publication of 14 pictures of people the PSNI wish to question in relation to a Broughshane Union flag protest, TUV leader, Jim Allister, has said he will be making a police witness statement on the matter. The North Antrim MLA who was present at the protest on December... Read More

As the Easter snow and ice slowly thaw sporting thoughts turn away from winter games, to the longer and warmer days and to the arrival of the new cricket season. After the brilliant performances of last year, the preparations at Muckamore are well under way. Practice sessions have switched from... Read More

The season opener at Nutts Corner got off to a bang with the Nuttshaker National Bangers Championship - an event which proved to be a real thriller for Easter Sunday. With a good mix of Northern and Southern drivers there was plenty of heavy hits from both sides, although it was all in good sport.... Read More

A budget airline has vowed that it will not return to Belfast International until airport top brass address 'safety concerns' on its runways. Jet2, who fly to Ibiza, Lanzarote, Tenerife, Geneva, Pisa and a range of UK destinations, headed for the Departure Lounge last weekend stressing that it felt... Read More

THE world Famous Grand Prix Circuit hosted the opening round of the 2013 Ulster Motocross Championship on Easter Monday 1st April. Braving sub zero temperatures and surrounded by the snow capped Sperrin Mountains, the 204 2013 Ulster Motocross Championship contenders who entered put on a red hot... Read More

THE players and supporters of Carrick Ladies 1st XI, sponsored by Holmes Builders, are eagerly anticipating their long awaited appearance this coming weekend in the prestigious UHU McConnell Shield Final where they will meet Randalstown 2nds, the current holders of the Shield trophy. The McConnell... Read More

CARRICKFERGUS council have been urged to make a concerted effort in cleaning up the rubbish which gathers in the harbour. Members of the pubic have claimed that when the tide goes out, a lot of items are left scattered around, with pieces of broken wood and metal poles sticking out in the muck... Read More

COMRADES' unhappy Easter period continued when a late goal sent them home from the promotion battle at Armagh empty-handed. Having seen his side's winning run come to an end at Lurgan Celtic three days earlier, and with Kyle Agnew and Adam Gray unavailable, manager Eddie Hill made some changes to... Read More

AN infamous Ballyclare eyesore is set to be torn down by the end of the month it has been confirmed. Happy House, a former Chinese takeaway at the bottom of Main Street near the Ballynure Road roundabout, has been a long-term derelict site at a crucial entry to the town. However the vacant building... Read More

ANTRIM'S hurlers completed a bad day at the office for Saffron Gaels with a narrow defeat to Offaly at Casement Park on Sunday in the Allianz National Hurling League Division 1B leaving them with a crucial relegation play-off game against Carlow on Sunday, April 14. For spectators, this game was... Read More

TWO weeks ago we reported that St Patrick's Church of Ireland church in Ballymoney has just received a grant of £542,200 for a complete renovation of the Old School House' building on church grounds on Queen Street that has been lying derelict for 40 years. This week we take a closer look at this... Read More

WORK has resumed on the new Ballymoney care home - with an anticipated completion date of August 2013. Speaking exclusively to the Chronicle, owner of the nursing home confirmed he holds 'no animosity' towards original contractors Patton and said work on the new facility was 'full steam ahead.'... Read More

BALLYMONEY Museum is developing a new and exciting exhibition celebrating the history of the GAA. The unique display is scheduled for 2014 to coincide with the 130th anniversary of the first meeting of the GAA held at Hayes Hotel, Thurles in Tipperary and a major focus will be the story of Gaelic... Read More

The fear of relegation and the ignominy of dropping down to National League basement football weighed heavily on Antrim as they missed the chance to save themselves from the drop, when they faced Meath at Casement Park on Sunday going down to a heavy 11 point defeat to the Royals with yet another... Read More

Snow was still piled high in some parts of the Glens on Saturday - over a week after the recent blizzards first arrived. For farmers, there seemed to be some semblance of a return to normality as many could be seen out working with their stock and checking the land. While most routes have now been... Read More

SEVEN top fighters from Ballymena's Institute of Mixed Martial Arts (IMMA) make up the Ulster Select side which tangles with a UK Select side this weekend in Newcastle, England. The show is part of the Supremacy Challenge promotion which is hosting the event. The local competitors are - Ryan Boyd,... Read More

A leading doctor has warned that damp in the family home of a seriously ill Ahoghill toddler could worsen his condition. In a letter passed to the Guardian, consultant paediatrician, Dara O'Donoghue, says he has "significant concerns" three-year-old John Balmer's chest condition could get worse as a... Read More

PROPOSALS for state-of-the-art mountain biking trails at Tardree Forest ramped up a gear last week when Council's Development and Leisure Committee enjoyed a presentation from the Northern Ireland Mountain Biking Alliance (NIMBA). The organisation was represented by chairman Rick McKee who is from... Read More

DESPITE a stunning run of form to win the Haikou World Open in March, Antrim's Mark Allen failed in his bid for back-to-back glory in China when he met Australian Neil Robertson in Beijing last Thursday (March 28). The 27-year-old had enjoyed a comfortable 5-1 win over Scotsman Anthony McGill in... Read More

A PIONEERING Antrim company has won an all-Ireland business award at the Irish Times InterTradeIreland Innovation Awards, which were held in Belfast for the first time. Now in its fourth year, the Innovation Awards attracted 164 applications from across the island of Ireland with more companies... Read More

THE sixth and final round of the 10th Woodford Greys Winter League took place on Sunday 24th March in less than favourable conditions with a strong easterly wind and a biting -4 wind chill. Owen Murray was first to record a fish, netting one within minutes of the start using sinking line and lures.... Read More

TOP gardening talents in Carrickfergus and Whitehead were officially recognised last Thursday at the Translink Ulster in Bloom awards presentation. Amidst a backdrop of cold harsh weather more fitting for the depths of winter, representatives from Carrick railway station and Brighter Whitehead were... Read More

LOCAL veterinary surgeon Kerensa Scott and partner for Carrickfergus Vets4Pets is warning dog owners to be on the lookout for a potentially fatal disease caused by infection from the lungworm parasite (Angiostrongylus vasorum). Last year's damp summer and mild winter conditions have proved ideal for... Read More

Lurgan Celtic 2, B/clare Comrades 1: COMRADES' ten-match winning streak in Championship 2 came to an end when they fell to defeat at Lurgan Celtic, in a game where individual errors costs them dearly. Eddie Hill had to make a couple of changes to his side for this match. Evan Forsythe and Ricky... Read More

A SAMPLE of traders in Ballyclare are unanimously in favour of extending free car parking on Saturdays, after the first pilot scheme at the Square in the town ended at the weekend. The Ballyclare Gazette spoke to a selection of traders in Main Street and the Square, with all expressing hope that... Read More

BALLYCLARE Comrades' legal challenge to its own social club has ended with both parties effectively severing their relationship, it is understood. The football club's objection to the licence renewal was to be heard on Tuesday, March 5 at Belfast Magistrates Court. However sources indicate the... Read More

COMMUNITY spirit under adversity was evident in sleepy Straid village last week when resilient residents were left without power, water or road access during the unprecedented snowfall. Blizzard conditions on March 22 sealed off roads into the village in mere hours - preventing many from returning... Read More

BALLYMONEY Ladies First XI have little time to feel sorry for themselves following Saturday's heartbreaking defeat to UCD in the semi-finals of the Electric Ireland Senior Cup. The girls from the 'Toon took the star-studded UCD team to strokes after the match level but lost out in the cruellest way... Read More

AS we approach the 10th anniversary of blue bins arriving in Ballymoney, it's a good time to reflect on how blue bins have really helped people recycle much more at home and how they have raised awareness of recycling in general. The days of 'one container for everything' are well and truly over,... Read More

RUNNER Adam Creighton laced up his trainers to run a marathon 26 miles from Limavady to Coleraine to Ballymoney - all for a good cause. Adam decided to run between the Cancer Focus Northern Ireland charity shops in each of the towns to encourage people to sign up for the 2013 Deep RiverRock Belfast... Read More

ANTRIM hurlers gave themselves a great chance of retaining their Division 1B status in the National Hurling League when they travelled to and defeated Carlow by 0-13 to 3-14 at the weekend. The result owed everything to a tremendous first half performance by the Saffrons who started well and never... Read More

ANYONE visiting Greenlight Gateway on Wednesday, March 13 would have been forgiven for rubbing their eyes in disbelief as everyone was dressed in their finest pyjamas, onesies and dressing gowns, all to do 'Something Funny for Money' and Comic Relief. And what craic they all had as they celebrated... Read More

Ballymena Academy U14 Year 10 boys closed out a highly successful season with a comprehensive display of clinical rugby by the whole squad to win the home O'Kane Cup tournament on Saturday. Following on from their win at the recent Northern Ireland Schools Belfast Inst. Tournament, they were keen to... Read More

It's an Easter egg tale with a difference that would have grumpy Victor Meldrew exclaiming 'I don't believe it!' For, believe it or not, a little finch has built a nest in the front porch light of a Ballymena family's home just in time for Easter. Lesley Fleming, from the Straid Road, provided the... Read More

Police in Antrim are appealing for information following a series of criminal damage incidents last Monday evening (March 18) - just 36 hours after a separate spate of attacks which saw five vehicles torched across the town. Elected representatives and the local community reacted with anger to the... Read More

A host of film, television and entertainment industry professionals recently lent their support to the fourth annual LA Cinemagic International Film and Television Festival for Young People, including a budding film-maker from Templepatrick. Rachel McClure (19) was one of nine lucky participants who... Read More

This month marks four years since sappers Mark Quinsey and Patrick Azimkar were slain by a hail of IRA bullets at Massereene army barracks. But just 10 days after the sad anniversary the Quinsey family were dealt another devastating blow - the sudden death of Mark's mother Pamela. Ms Brankin, who... Read More

THE long awaited midweek East Antrim derby turned out to be something of a total mismatch as Carrick Rangers gave a six of the best caning to neighbours Larne at Inver Park. Unless some of your really 'older hands' out there can remember differently, it was Carrick's biggest victory over Larne in... Read More

BALLYCLARE Secondary School Pupil, 15 year old Adam Wilson, a forward with the under 16 Junior Belfast Goants Ice Hockey team, celebrated their sucess this weekend after their game against the Ayr Bruins at the Odyssey. On Saturday 2nd March Adam's team had a special treat in store thanks to the... Read More

Ballyclare 0, Lisnagarvey 2: ON WEDNESDAY March 20th under lights Ballyclare Ladies 1st XI met Lisnagarvey in the Senior Cup Semi final. This match was played at the neutral venue of Mossley Hockey Club, and was a fixture that had been postponed in December due to unfavourable weather conditions.... Read More

A BALLYCLARE woman has been sent to prison for three months after shouting and swearing in Antrim Area Hospital while only metres away from the bereaved relatives of another patient. Karen Maxwell, from Rashee Drive, was arrested last Tuesday morning just before she was due to appear at Antrim... Read More

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DALRIADA'S Under 18 football team have dedicated their first ever Senior League Cup title to former captain James Elliott. The Ballymoney school defeated Loreto College 3-0 in an emotionally charged final last Wednesday at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre. Coach Ian Getty described the victory as a... Read More

THE results are in for the first ever UK Youth Parliament elections held in Northern Ireland. The UKYP representative for North Antrim is Slemish College student Emma Dillon. Emma, aged 17, is in lower sixth currently studying media psychology and geography at A Level. Emma said: "When I was... Read More

AROUND 70 pensioners from across County Antrim gathered in the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre in Ballymoney on Friday for the third of seven highly anticipated Pensioners Parliaments due to take place across Northern Ireland in the coming weeks. All eager to make their voices heard on the problems they... Read More

BALLYMENA Rugby Club will host its Mini Rugby Festival - one of the biggest in Northern Ireland - at Eaton Park on April 6! Details were announced at Eaton Park on Saturday morning. The rugby day will feature lads aged 6 to 11 from eleven clubs from throughout the Province. Over 700 families are... Read More

NORTH Antrim MLA, David McIlveen, is shocked at the fuel poverty crisis which exists within the Borough! He acquired Keep Warm Packs from Ballymena Council - but has been left gravely concerned at the speed at which they were snapped up by constituents. “The unusually cold weather is hitting many... Read More

THE annual St Patrick's Day climb at Slemish had to be cancelled at the weekend due to adverse weather conditions. The mountain was assessed on Saturday, March 16 by the Mountain Rescue team who deemed it "unsafe to climb". As a result organisers decided it was best to cancel the event in the... Read More

ANTRIM snooker star, Mark Allen has lost out on a potential prize of £100,000 after he was knocked out of the quarter finals of the Players Tour Championship (PTC) Finals in Galway over the weekend. China's Ding Junhui made a maximum 147 break in the opening frame of his quarter-final against the... Read More

CRUFTS is the largest dog show in the world, attracting thousands of entries and visitors to the NEC in Birmingham every year. As four-legged friends of all shapes and sizes compete for rosettes the pressure on their owners and handlers is immense as they strive to be the best in their breed.... Read More

THE final of the Danske Bank Ulster Schools' Medallion Bowl took place at the Belfast Royal Academy playing fields at Roughfort. Carrickfergus Grammar School and Grosvenor Grammar School met in an exciting game which the Grosvenor team won by 17-10. In excellent conditions at Roughfort,... Read More

CARRICK Ladies 1st XI, sponsored by Holmes Builders, rounded off an immensely successful league season on Saturday afternoon with yet another impressive 4-2 win, this time at Raphoe. Carrick's goalscorers were Lois Passmore, Chloe Mitchell, Katie Houston, and Christine Waide. This victory... Read More

LAST WEEK marked the anniversary of the birth of former American President who roots lie in the Carrickfergus village of Boneybefore. Although Andrew Jackson's name is widely familiar with Carrickfergus residents, a quick ask around the town proves the majority know little more than his name and... Read More

THERE are plans to erect 12 new wind turbines in Carrickfergus, according to local councillor Andrew Wilson. The Knockagh councillor has said he is concerned about the number of turbines being erected and has called for more clarity about the plans. Mr Wilson attended a Northern Group... Read More

LLOYD Anderson, who is in Year 11 at Ballyclare Secondary School, was crowned the winner of PlayBall's Street Striker 2013. The talented footballer will be jetted off to Premiership side Swansea City FC for a week's trial in April. Lloyd, a GCSE PE student, was a key member of Ballyclare Secondary... Read More

DOG'S Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity has strongly backed the campaign for the introduction of compulsory since 2011. Its support has seen free microchipping offered to all dogs across Northern Ireland with many towns being visited by the charities chip van. The campaign has clearly been... Read More

IF YOU went down to a certain car park in Ballymoney on Monday you may have been forgiven for thinking you were in the middle of the wacky races - because despite brand new shiny white lines, motorists seemed to be parking wherever they wanted! Concerned members of the public popped into The... Read More

THE car Garry Jennings will roll out for the Easter Stages Rally later this month scored a comprehensive victory at the McGrady Insurance Bishopscourt Stages on Saturday. Jennings, who is originally from Coleraine, handed over the keys of his Subaru Impreza World Rally Car to Derek McGarrity - the... Read More

The Robert Quigg VC Commemoration Society has recently formed a committee which will undertake the development of a proposed statue in Bushmills to honour the actions of the famous World War One hero. The Society plans to have a sculpture of Quigg VC in place by July 1, 2016 and will shortly... Read More

A petition has been launched by the community in Cushendall as they continue their campaign for a new village fire station. Around 80 people attended a public meeting on the issue in The Glens Hotel last Thursday night, including representatives from the Fire Service. Local businessman Paddy... Read More

Ards First XV 0 Ballymena First XV 12 Ballymena 1st travelled to Ards 1st in the Ulster League at the weekend and came away with a 0-12 victory. On arrival it was doubtful if the game would go ahead a the pitch was water logged with some areas having a few inches of water lying. Ards wanted the... Read More

Peter Harrison, North Antrim MP Ian Paisley's parliamentary researcher, has won a major House of Commons award. Mr Harrison, whose grandparents live in the Oldpark Road area of the town, won the prestigious award of Westminster "Researcher of the year" for 2012/2013. The award is recognition of Mr... Read More

Sunday at Nutts Corner Market track saw the first round of the Supermoto NI club championship. The bitterly cold day did not put off the riders or the spectators who witnessed a tough day's racing with sleet and snow falling during some of the races. The first race of the day was the Prestige quad... Read More

It might have been a long time coming, but for one local soccer side this was one pitch battle worth winning! Crewe United Football Club officially launched their new sports pitch, Crewe Sports Zone, at their Glenavy base last Tuesday. The Mid Ulster League club has added to their impressive... Read More

Sentencing of a former Antrim Town DUP election candidate for an explosives charge was adjourned at Antrim Crown Court on Friday (March 8). Thirty-one year-old John Smyth has pleaded guilty to making explosives, namely a pipe bomb, with the intent to endanger life on a date unknown between April 13... Read More

NORTHERN Cricket Union Section One new boys Templepatrick Cricket Club have signed a highly-rated Australian all-rounder ahead of the 2013 season. The Ballyclare-based club's 1st XI, who won promotion last year after finishing runners-up in the Section Two, are hoping to carry on their winning form... Read More

ANOTHER resident in Whitehead has said the situation with dog fouling in the area isn't being taken seriously enough. The resident, who did not want to be named told us: "We live on the Islandmagee Road and go to Whitehead Primary School. “I am disgusted at the state of Whitehead footpaths, I've... Read More

CARRICKFERGUS' royal connection of Prince William and Kate Middleton's titles of Baron and Baroness of Carrickfergus has proved to be more than a tenuous link after her family tree has been traced to the town. The Duchess of Cambridge's ancestry highlights that the lineage on her father's side can... Read More

THE car parking scheme in the Square, offering free parking on Saturdays during the month of March, is to cost Newtownabbey Borough Council more than was originally envisaged, with councillors set to approve the increased total at a meeting of the Development Com-mittee this evening (Tuesday March... Read More

THE first ever incinerator facility in Northern Ireland, providing energy to around 30,000 homes annually and creating over 750 jobs at various stages, could be in operation close to the Hightown Road in Newtownabbey within five years, if the necessary planning approvals are granted. At a launch for... Read More

BALLYMONEY United put their recent heavy defeat to Moyola Park behind them and bounced back in emphatic fashion against Portstewart on Saturday in this derby game at Riada Stadium. Cahal Higgins and Gerard Gillan both grabbed a brace apiece as Ballymoney put another three points on the board as... Read More

BALLYMONEY 1st XI's hopes of a second Premier League title took a major step back with defeat to defending champions Pegasus on Saturday. In a game, where they had their backs to the wall for the most part, Ballymoney had their defence to thank for keeping the Pegasus score to just one goal. This... Read More

EUROPEAN Super-bantanweight champion boxer Carl Frampton will help Scorpion ABC celebrate their 30th anniversary as special guest at the club's gala night of boxing at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre this Friday (March 8). A very strong Antrim side will be taking on the Elite from the Isle of Man on... Read More

BALLYMONEY Museum Manager Keith Beattie narrowly missed out in winning the Employee of the Year category at the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) awards event held at the Everglades Hotel in Londonderry last Thursday night. Keith was shortlisted for the award because of his... Read More

A DALRIADA student has come runner up in the Annual Youth Award Public Speaking competition, supported by Progressive Building Society. Laura Abernethy from Ballymoney, a student of Dalriada School, represented the Ballymoney club on the topic: 'To frack or not to frack: That is the question.'... Read More

THE various race sponsors for this year's Vauxhall International North West 200 have been announced. Chief among the various sponsors of the event is Coleraine Borough Council, host council and one of the event's biggest supporters. “Last year, a new sign bearing the Borough of Coleraine's coat of... Read More

TITLE hopeful Connor McCloskey extended his advantage at the top of the BTRDA drivers' standings by seven points following his top-three finish on Saturday's Malcolm Wilson Rally. Navigated by Francis Regan, the Kilrea driver ended the seven-stage competition just over a minute behind eventual... Read More

Greg Loughran is the newly crowned Cage Contenders Light-weight champion! In Dublin, in front of a sell-out crowd of 3,500, he recently fought his way to victory over Liverpool-based Chris Stringer. Loughran, who trains at Ballymena's Institute of Mixed Martial Arts gym and at Davy Patterson's EFR... Read More

Education Minister, John O'Dowd, visited the Northern Regional College in Ballymena last week to see the work they are doing in support of the Entitlement Framework. NRC is part of the Ballymena Area Learning Community and is one of several establishments who are working together to deliver on the... Read More

Ballymena Deputy Mayor, councillor Beth Adger, has said the Borough must ensure it does not lose its care or respite homes. “We must keep an eye on this and make sure it does not happen," she said. “There are not that many (homes) but we should make certain that if elderly in the Borough need... Read More

An Antrim teenager is set to represent Northern Ireland at a UK wide talent competition in Glasgow. Jaymee Floyd was invited to Scotland by the TeenStar Talent Competition after being spotted on You Tube. The singing sensation auditioned with hundreds of other hopeful teens and the judges have since... Read More

An outspoken Antrim councillor has courted more controversy this week by vowing to fight new proposals which give members of the Travelling Community rights to live in the countryside denied to their 'settled' neighbours. Ulster Unionist Adrian Watson, who is no stranger to making occasional caustic... Read More

Chimney Corner 2, Ballyclare Comrades 6: COMRADES kept up the momentum of their growing promotion challenge with a comfortable victory at bottom of the table Chimney Corner. For this match Eddie Hill had to do without midfielder Gerard McAlea and striker Ricky Higgins. Into the starting line-up came... Read More

A CARRICKFERGUS woman has made sea angling history after becoming the first lady from Ulster to qualify for the Home Nations competition, were she will compete in the first ever Irish Ladies Shore team. Debbie Withers, who is a member of the Beach and Rockers Sea Angling Club in Carrick took up... Read More

WOMEN'S sport is seeing a massive boost in numbers thanks to the 2012 London Olympics and there has never been a better time to get involved, particularly in rugby where women are still massively underrepresented. The Irish ladies squad recently triumphed over Wales, Scotland and secured a historic... Read More

THE Maxoll-sponsored Carrick 1st XV were well beaten by title-chasing Bangor on Saturday 2nd March, going down by 34 points to 10 at Tom Simms Memorial Park. Carrick were out-muscled up front by the big Bangor pack and were under pressure, with the ball or without, for virtually the whole game.... Read More

A NEW entrance is to be constructed to the salt mine at Kilroot, Carrickfergus. The entrance will allow access to underground areas which are just being opened up after the decision was made two years ago to expand the operations of the mine. The Irish Salt Mining & Exploration Co (ISME) started... Read More

IT was another case of heartbreak at Ravenhill on Monday as Ballyclare High lost 18-9 to RBAI in the Schools Cup semi final, missing out on the chance to gain revenge for last year's final defeat to Methody, despite the school producing their "best performance" for seven years at the ground,... Read More

BALLYMONEY Ladies Rugby Team took to the road on Sunday as they travelled to City of Armagh Rugby Club to take part in the 2013 Ulster Women's Qualifying Cup Final. This was going to be a journey of unknowns for the girls in blue as their opponents, Sligo, were somewhat of a mystery team to them in... Read More

THE HEALTH Minister has written to reassure a Ballymoney community after they contacted him following the frightening realisation that every member of the local community association knew someone, either close family or a friend or neighbour who has cancer. Late last year Ballybogey Community... Read More

"I CAN'Twait to be barrelling down into Magherabouy on the R1 Yamaha superbike.' is William Dunlop's response when he is asked how much he is looking forward to this year's Vauxhall International North West 200. It will be the Ballymoney man's first road race outing on the Milwaukee Tools YZF-R1... Read More

Ballynahinch First XV 66 Ballymena First XV 5 Ballymena 1st travelled to AIL leaders Ballynahinch 1st and were beaten 66-5. From a 22 restart 'Hinch found some space and sent winger Aaron Ferris over for the opening try in the corner. Mike Lawton missed the conversion, 5-0 In the 19th minute... Read More

Glenavon 7 Ballymena United 0 Not for the first time this season Ballymena United turned in a horror showing - this time against Glenavon who had previously picked up just three points out of a possible 24! United's day of shambles began after just five minutes when Glenavon defender Brendan... Read More

Ballymena SDLP councillor, Declan O'Loan, has strongly criticised the Roads Service for its handling of a bridge closure over the River Bann at Portglenone, which has adversely affected local businesses. He is also outraged that the Service failed to notify Ballymena Borough Council. Councillor... Read More

Even before race 12 of the Antrim Boat Club Winter Series began last weekend there was a casualty, with Sunseeker making an early exit due to a broken mast. Gusty winds made conditions very difficult for the crews, who often found themselves at alarming angles as the wind swept across Antrim Bay.... Read More

It has been a year since 'The Pistol' shot to his first professional ranking tournament win in China, pocketing himself a tidy £75,000. But as fans awake this morning (Tuesday) they will have everything crossed that local snooker supremo Mark Allen has made it over the first hurdle in his bid to... Read More

Terrified residents are living at the mercy of a growing army of anti-social thugs who are 'hell bent on destruction', an irate community leader has claimed. Ulster Unionist Adrian Watson fears that Antrim has become a 'dumping ground for scumbags' from across Northern Ireland - adding that local... Read More

CAMPAIGNERS against plans to erect two new wind turbines in Carrickfergus have said they are determined to do everything in their power to stop the proposals. Last week a packed public meeting at Carrickfergus town hall heard objections from local residents to plans to erect wind turbines at... Read More

DISABLED people in Ballyclare are being urged to take part in the most comprehensive study into accessibility ever carried out in Northern Ireland. Adapt NI, the voluntary organisation committed to improving access for disabled people, is carrying out the province-wide survey, on behalf of the... Read More

LOUGHGIEL Shamrocks' reign as All-Ireland Senior Club Hurling champions came to an abrupt end in Saturday's replay at Clones as a superior St Thomas team were more than a match for the Antrim and Ulster representatives. The Shamrocks totally dominated the opening 10 minutes of this firey semi-final,... Read More

SENIOR judges have set out their reasons for dismissing Hazel Stewart's appeal against her conviction for murdering her ex-lover's wife. The 49-year-old former Sunday school teacher was jailed for a minimum term of 18 years in 2011 for her part in the killing of Lesley Howell and Trevor Buchanan.... Read More

THE NORTHERN Regional College is close to finalising the curriculum plan that will determine its future locations including the Ballymoney campus. The news was revealed by Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry in response to a question from North Antrim DUP MLA Mervyn Storey who... Read More

DALRIADA'S hopes of making the last eight of the Dankse Bank Schools' Cup ended with defeat to neighbours Limavady Grammar School last Wednesday afternoon. Dalriada did lead 7-0 at the break but a spirited second half performance saw Limavady snatch victory in very wet and windy playing conditions... Read More

A 'forwarder' machine used to extract logs has been burnt out at Slieveanorra Forest near Cushendun. The vehicle belonged to a private contractor and was burnt out between Thursday night and Friday morning. Cushendall Fire Service was tasked to the scene after the alarm was raised early on Friday.... Read More

A large number of sheep and calf carcasses have been found dumped at Straidbilly Wood in Liscolman. The grim discovery included approximately twelve dead sheep and the remains of three calves. Signs of fly-tipping have also been found in the area. It is believed that dumping has been taking place at... Read More

Long, hot Summer days may seem a long way off, but there is no doubt we are all still getting through thousands of large bottles of lemonade and soft drinks. You may be interested to hear that as well as recycling them in the 'blue bin', Greenlight Gateway have a novel and practical use for these... Read More

Ballymena United 0 Coleraine 1 The curse of Coleraine continues to haunt Ballymena United - with striker Curtis Allen playing the leading role! At the weekend the 25-year-old netted the winner - his seventh goal in his seventh 'derby' for the Bannsiders. This win was their second in... Read More

Broughshane teenager Rebecca Galbraith is in action with the Northern Ireland Ladies Under-19s football team today (Tuesday) in Spain - all part of the build up for the European Championship qualifiers later this year in Portugal. The Upper Sixth pupil at Ballymena Academy is manager Alfie Wylie's... Read More

As a professional sportsman Antrim's Mark Allen spends a lot of time away from his nearest and dearest. The 26-year-old is due to tie the knot with local woman Kyla McGuigan in a lavish ceremony surrounded by family and friends. The world number eight, who has a daughter Lauren from a previous... Read More

Antrim Borough Council has agreed the smallest increase on record for its portion of the household rates for 2013/14. The 0.49 per cent rise represents a three pence per week increase based on a property with a capital value of £85,000. Alderman Drew Ritchie, chairman of the Council's Resources... Read More

The Maxol-sponsored Carrick 1st XV lost by 17 points to 10 away to League leaders Ballyclare on Saturday 16th February. This was a much improved performance by Carrick compared with their last meeting with Ballyclare before Christmas. After a shaky start, Carrick settled well and were highly... Read More

CARRICKFERGUS residents have come out in force to strongly oppose the construction of wind turbines in two locations in the town which have been dubbed 'monstrosities'. A proposed planning application was lodged for the erection of a 30m high wind turbine with 30m rotor diameter with a maximum... Read More

THE long awaited demolition of the Woodsides building may have started last week, but it remains unclear what will replace the former town centre shopping centre. Planning permission currently exists for the construction of a development of three retail units, 38 apartments and an underground car... Read More

BALLYMONEY Ladies have given themselves a great chance of winning some silverware this season by defeating Carrick 10-0 in their latest outing at the weekend. The girls from the Toon were originally meant to travel to their opponents but their pitch was waterlogged, meaning that the match was... Read More

BALLYMONEY United moved up to seventh in the Championship Two table on Saturday with their third successive league win thanks to a hat-trick from Conleth McCaughan and a brace from Cahal Higgins. It was a scrappy start to the game at Riada Stadium with the home side dominating the opening quarter of... Read More

THE MAYOR of Ballymoney has said it is with 'great pride' that she represented the Borough at the recent ceremony in Ballymena where world famous Hollywood actor Liam Neeson was given the Freedom of the Borough. Speaking to The Chronicle the pride in Cllr Evelyne Robinson's voice was clear to hear... Read More

A LEADING member of the 'Friends of the Roddens' group has said that 'there is no room for complacency' with regard to the future of the Roddens Care Home in Ballymoney. Mrs Georgie Blair's comments come as rumours that the Northern Trust have reduced the number of services available at the Roddens... Read More

LOUGHGIEL Shamrocks will enter into battle once again with St Thomas' this Saturday as they aim to get over the end line and seal their place in the All-Ireland Senior Club Hurling Championship decider in Croke Park on St Patrick's Day. The two sides came through an epic battle in Dublin last... Read More