East Down Advertiser

10/07/2026

09/07/2026

SHEAR BRILLIANCE: Agri-Consultancy sponsors Castlewellan Show

Local agricultural consultancy E-MAC Agri Consultancy is dedicated to helping farmers and agri-food businesses thrive by providing expert guidance and support. The team works hard to optimise operations and help clients achieve their specific business goals.
Community backing remains a core value for the local company. This summer E-MAC Agri Consultancy is proud to announce its standing as a main sponsor for the upcoming Castlewellan Show, 2026! E-MAC is owned by Ellen Moorehead, married to Joe, who owns a car body repair Centre. Joe's AutoBody Centre is also supporting the event as a sponsor. Together, these local businesses are backing the highly anticipated, first ever speed shear competition at the show. This exciting event highlights rural heritage and will be a new attraction and exciting spectacle for showgoers to enjoy!
Founded by Ellen Moorehead, E-MAC was born from a passion to support local farming enterprises navigating today’s shifting agricultural landscape.
"Our local beef and sheep farmers face unprecedented policy changes and input costs," says Ellen. "Our unique focus is taking the administrative burden off the kitchen table so farmers can focus on their stock."
Expert advice is vital for modern farming businesses navigating the current agricultural landscape. E-MAC Agri Consultancy offers specialised knowledge to help farmers improve efficiency. Their participation in the local show emphasizes their commitment to the agricultural sector.

06/07/2026

History for the present day: County Museum, Dundalk

At its heart the key idea behind the County Museum, Dundalk is that of curiosity where the visitor is presented with an exciting, unfolding story that excites a curiosity in the past; something that fuels the imagination.
This is a museum and collection that presents the past in a way that is accessible – one that highlights Louth’s rich industrial history, a story that is unique. These are the tales of Arctic explorer, Sir Francis Leopopld McClintock (who mapped most of the Canadian coastline); engineer Peter Rice (who was involved in the construction of the Sydney Opera House, the Lloyd’s Building and the glass pyramid at the Louvre) and Beatrice Hill-Lowe (the first Irishwoman to win a medal at the Olympics).
This is a Museum like no other, one that engages both the heart and the brain creating a curiosity about the past. It is a museum that invites conversations between family members about what life was like in the past and how it has changed. It creates connection and conversation that is deeply interesting and rewarding.
This is a Museum with a collection of more than 80,000 items where there is something for everyone, be it the three-wheeled, Ferrari-red Heinkel motor car, William of Orange’s leather jacket, Oliver Cromwell’s shaving mirror or a selection of St. Brigid crosses. With the recent opening of a temporary exhibition on one of Dundalk’s greatest bands, The Corrs, this story is brought up to the present day.
This is a Museum for you.

03/07/2026

Editorial – Big Summer Sale

Bowman Windows start their BIG Summer Sale on Monday 20th July 2026. We are now celebrating 56 years in business – so you can be confident you are dealing with a well-established local family business who care.
With up to 30% discount across many of our products, it’s the perfect time to undertake some home improvements. Why not upgrade to new ‘A’ Rated PVC windows, install new fascia, soffit & guttering or design your stunning new Apeer composite door. You could also eliminate all that unsightly cement mortar along your gables with our attractive PVC dry verge edging system. Replace your old Velux roof window and get a bright new white PVC finish inside with optional black out blinds.

Our Story – Our Team
It all began in 1970 with a small van, a few pieces of glass, some tools and a very big dream. 56 Years on Bowman Windows are still one of the leading window and door suppliers throughout Ireland.

David Waddell started his career with Bowman Windows in September 1991, managing our busy stores department and making sure that all materials are ready on time for all our jobs. For the past 10 years David has also priced and organised all our fascia, soffit and guttering requirements. At 81 years young, Davids’ wealth of knowledge, experience and drive is a great example to us all.

Our Offer

• Up to 30% Summer Sale starts Monday 20th July 2026
• Low upfront costs – only a 50% deposit secures any order
• Easy payment via card, bank transfer or cash
• 10 Year guarantee
• Our own sales, survey, showroom and fitting teams
• Showroom visits can be arranged by appointment

Our Service

When you place an order with us you can be sure you’re in trusted hands. From our first survey until your job is completed our dedicated sales team will look after you. To help other customers we welcome your ‘before and after’ photographs for our social media platforms.

Bowman Windows sales office and showroom is located at 50a Newry Street, Banbridge BT32 3HA
Opening Hours Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 4.30pm and Fridays 8.30 am – 1.30pm Saturday – Closed

Don’t Forget! We can install your windows if you have a grant from the Affordable Warmth Scheme or the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Please contact us for more information.

Don’t Forget! We supply and fit roller, insulated roller and insulated sectional garage doors. Manual or Automatic.

Don’t Forget! Our BIG Summer Sale starts Monday 20th July 2026

Bowman Windows can be contacted –

028 40662000
[email protected]
www.bowmanwindowsni.co.uk

Or find us on Facebook & Instagram

03/07/2026

Jump into summer with the National Trust’s Summer of Play supported by Pokémon

This summer, the National Trust’s much-loved Summer of Play returns, inviting families to enjoy outdoor adventures across Northern Ireland - with all new experiences supported by Pokémon.

Taking place in some of the National Trust’s most inspiring locations, from nature reserves alive with bug hunting and wild exploring, shady woodlands made for den building and imaginative play, to wide open lawns perfect for team games, races and a kickabout, Summer of Play is designed to help families connect with nature and the outdoors through shared experiences.

Rowallane Garden and Mount Stewart will host Pokémon activities, where families can tackle challenges and trails inspired by their favourite Pokémon and collect stickers at each visit, while Pokémon GO fans will enjoy new National Trust Pokéstops and Gyms, plus exclusive gameplay experiences.

Here’s just a small selection of the events on offer this summer:

At Rowallane Garden in County Down from 13 June, get active outdoors on our Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete your own challenges. Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day. Normal admission also applies (free for National Trust members).

From 11 July to 31 August at Rowallane Garden, families can enjoy a colourful Summer of Play across the garden, from active games in the Pleasure Ground to creative crafts in the Stableyard and hands-on building with natural materials throughout the wider garden. At the bandstand, performance play brings opportunities for storytelling, puppetry and dance.

At Mount Mount Stewart from 11 July to 6 September, Summer of Play means you can share the magic of Pokémon as a family! Ready to unleash your energy? On top of an already jam-packed Summer of Play, discover our all-new Pokémon zone. Get stuck into the Pokémon trading, take part in mega games, flex your skills and collect stickers! Don’t forget your imagination! Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day.

Castle Ward will host a vibrant summer programme from 11 July to 24 August 2026, inviting families to explore imaginative play zones across its grounds. Activities include tractor races and hobby horse fun in the Farmyard Zone, as well as climbing and balance challenges in the Adventure Play area. The Courtyard offers traditional games, creative building, performance opportunities, and a calming book nook for quiet moments. On the front lawn, visitors can enjoy classic summer games like badminton and egg-and-spoon races. Overall, the experience blends adventure, creativity and relaxation in a scenic historic setting.

To find your nearest Summer of Play experience visit:
nationaltrust.org.uk/summer-of-play

26/06/2026

Cossum Swim School is celebrating 30 years sharing water safety and swimming skills!

Cossum Swim School is a family business celebrating 30 years teaching swimming skills across Northern Ireland. The school delivers lessons in six venues throughout Northern Ireland and is a recognised STA Approved Training Centre. Cossum Swim School was founded by the late Des Cossum and today the business is owned and managed by his daughter Claire. Claire’s Sister, Maeve, is also an STA Approved Tutor in the business.
When enjoying the water this summer, understanding basic safety is just as important as knowing how to swim. Cossum Swim School proudly highlights the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) "Float to Live" campaign—a simple, proven technique that saves lives by fighting the instinct to panic or thrash in cold water.
If you or someone you are with gets into trouble in water, remember these five steps:
Tilt your head back to keep your airway clear,
Stay calm and control your breathing,
Use gentle sculling movements to stay afloat,
Don’t worry if your legs sink as everyone floats differently,
And once steady, signal for help or swim to safety.
The RNLI strongly recommends practising floating in a safe, supervised environment.

Enrolment is now open for summer swim camps that your child will love over their school holiday. Cossum Swim School also offer lessons for babies, beginners and competitive athletes. You can also sign up for junior lifeguard training, advanced swimming, teacher courses or adult-only sessions. Visit their website to register your family for the upcoming sunny season. Make this summer both fun and safe.
To buy tickets for Summer Swimming camps or to secure your place for our September term, visit www.cossumswimschools.co.uk

Summer Camp Dates are 6th - 10th July & 20th to 25th July - first come first served basis

26/06/2026

Big Summer Sale

Bowman Windows start their BIG Summer Sale on Monday 20th July 2026. We are now celebrating 56 years in business – so you can be confident you are dealing with a well-established local family business who care.
With up to 30% discount across many of our products, it’s the perfect time to undertake some home improvements. Why not upgrade to new ‘A’ Rated PVC windows, install new fascia, soffit & guttering or design your stunning new Apeer composite door. You could also eliminate all that unsightly cement mortar along your gables with our attractive PVC dry verge edging system. Replace your old Velux roof window and get a bright new white PVC finish inside with optional black out blinds.

Our Story – Our Team
It all began in 1970 with a small van, a few pieces of glass, some tools and a very big dream. 56 Years on Bowman Windows are still one of the leading window and door suppliers throughout Ireland.

David Waddell started his career with Bowman Windows in September 1991, managing our busy stores department and making sure that all materials are ready on time for all our jobs. For the past 10 years David has also priced and organised all our fascia, soffit and guttering requirements. At 81 years young, Davids’ wealth of knowledge, experience and drive is a great example to us all.

Our Offer

• Up to 30% Summer Sale starts Monday 20th July 2026
• Low upfront costs – only a 50% deposit secures any order
• Easy payment via card, bank transfer or cash
• 10 Year guarantee
• Our own sales, survey, showroom and fitting teams
• Showroom visits can be arranged by appointment

Our Service

When you place an order with us you can be sure you’re in trusted hands. From our first survey until your job is completed our dedicated sales team will look after you. To help other customers we welcome your ‘before and after’ photographs for our social media platforms.

Bowman Windows sales office and showroom is located at 50a Newry Street, Banbridge BT32 3HA
Opening Hours Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 4.30pm and Fridays 8.30 am – 1.30pm Saturday – Closed

Don’t Forget! We can install your windows if you have a grant from the Affordable Warmth Scheme or the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Please contact us for more information.

Don’t Forget! We supply and fit roller, insulated roller and insulated sectional garage doors. Manual or Automatic.

Don’t Forget! Our BIG Summer Sale starts Monday 20th July 2026

Bowman Windows can be contacted –

028 40662000
[email protected]
www.bowmanwindowsni.co.uk

Or find us on Facebook & Instagram

06/05/2026

It’s a must try 💫 support local 🥘 🍷 with Maggies Wine Bar

Small plates this Thursday + Friday! Make sure to get booked in as Saturday is our Pop-Up Mexican night 🍋‍🟩🌮

Remember £5 corkage on any bottle over £15 from our shop on Thursdays! And 2 for 1 Spritz on Friday between 5-6pm 🤌🏼

Call 02844830281 or click the link in our bio to book your table.

11/04/2026

NEW PODIATRY CLINIC NOW OPEN IN HOLYWOOD

Claire Badger is the fully qualified Podiatrist at The Foot Doc. Claire has over six years of clinical experience in foot health and lower limb care, She graduated in 2019 and spent the first five years of her career working within the Northern Health & Social Care Trust. This time in the NHS provided her with extensive exposure to complex cases and high-risk foot conditions, giving her a solid foundation in medical-grade podiatry. Claire opened The Foot Doc earlier this month with a new clinic on High Street and also offering a mobile service!

Says Claire, “I established The Foot Doc to bring that same level of professional
rigour to a local, community-focused clinic. My goal is simple: to help people maintain their independence and live pain-free lives through expert care.
Every set of feet is unique. Whether you are visiting for a routine check-up or a complex injury, I ensure every treatment plan is evidence-based and fully personalised to your lifestyle. I take the time to listen to your concerns, diagnose the root cause, and explain your treatment options clearly.”

Whether you are managing the daily wear and tear of life or navigating a specific injury, the clinic’s philosophy centres on a patient-focused, tailored approach within a supportive and discreet environment. Their General Podiatry services address common but often painful issues such as nail cutting, ingrown toenails, hard skin, callus, and verruca removal. For patients suffering from more complex conditions like persistent heel pain, flat feet, or sports-related injuries, the clinic provides in-depth Biomechanical Assessments. These evaluations allow the podiatrist to diagnose the root cause of discomfort and implement long-term solutions that go beyond surface-level symptoms. The Foot Doc also provides a dedicated mobile service every Tuesday, offering house visits to patients across East Belfast, Dundonald, Holywood, and the surrounding areas.
Taking the first step toward better foot health is designed to be as seamless as possible. Patients can easily book an appointment by visiting the official website, emailing the clinic, or calling their Holywood office.
53B High Street, Holywood, BT18 9AB, Tel: 07923 068 528; Email: [email protected]

Expert Podiatrist in Holywood. The Foot Doc provides professional foot care, nail surgery, and biomechanical assessments to keep you mobile. Book online today. Ingrown Toenail Surgery & Removal, foot pain, sore feet, sore toes.