Expert's View

July is on record as being one of the dullest and wettest ever. With this in mind, Heather McGarrigleand Emily Maree have come up with 20 ways to cheer yourself up during the remainder of our so-called summer

The 'eat goes on' in Belfast with A The Festival of Fools team will ter. Call 028 9094 1342 or visit £4-£6. Visit www.belfastarthunt. venture and take in poetry readings 1the annual Taste and Music Fes- ""tperk you up every Sunday expert's view www.belfastcityblues.com. co.uk or call 079 2176 9270. and storytelling for two to four- tival in Botanic Gardens between throughout August in Belfast with year-olds at The Island Arts Centre, August 4 and 8. Delicious food and street theatre including aerial Professor Cary Cooper is ·gTake part in t'ai chi sessions on A bunch of flowers can make Lisburn on August 20. Admission great music will shake off the sum- shows from Barren Carousel and Professor of Psychology and the Mall in Armagh every Tues- 13. someone's day, so imagine is £7. Ring 028 9250 9509. mer blues. Tickets are available on cookery with a difference from the Health at Lancaster Univer- day and Thursday until the end of what a whole room can do. Carrick- the gate and include daily admis- Half Naked Chef. Free shows are ar sity. He says: "Seasonal Affec- August. As part of the city's Planet fergus Garden Society's annual Take in some fresh air on sion tickets (£5/£10), 'flexi-day' 2pm and 4pm. Phone 028 9023 tive Disorder can occur in Earth festival, everyone is welcome Flower Show returns on Saturday 17Wilderness Day at Lagan Val- passes (£12.50) and the Five for 6007 or visit wwwJoolsfestival.com. people who don't receive the to take part in this graceful prac- August 14 with flowers, fruit, veg- ley Regional Park, August 21.Take Five lunchtime special (£5). Phone full spectrum of light from tice. Phone 028 3752 9600. etables, floral art and handicrafts. part in the many activities planned 028 9045 7700 or visit www. West Belfast's Feile an Phobail the sun in the winter, or Phone Carrickfergus Council events to include the whole family. Check belfasttasteandmusicfest.com 5continues until Sunday with when the weather is gloomy. The Crescent in Portstewart team on 028 9336 6666. www.laganvalley.co.uk/events drama, comedy and music. Sure A poor winter and expecta- 1. Ois hosting its annual Junior closer to the event for details. Get the whole family out and en- to bring a smile to your face is tions of a good summer Stars in Your Eyes competition at ..iIEnjoy face-painting, /fancy 2joying Northern Ireland togeth- Lenny Henry tomorrow at 8pm in which doesn't arrive can 2.30pm today with performances 1'tdress and family fun on Ti- ·1 8' Experience some culture at er. The National Trust admits kids Andersonstown Leisure Centre. combine to make people from mini versions of singing stars. tanic Vintage Day 2010 on August Irish Walled Towns Day at for free to selected properties For tickets and the programme, mildly depressed. People are Phone the Coleraine Borough 14 at the Titanic Dock and Pump various venues around Derry City throughout the summer provided visit www.feilebelfast.com. getting depressed by what events team on 028 7034 7234. House on Queen's Island. Entrance on August 22. Visit www.derry they are accompanied by a paying they are expecting not being is free and dressing up is encour- city.gov.uk or call 028 71261916. adult. Phone the National Trust Br'.itain's Got Talent champions achieved." Lift your spirits with a day aged. Visit www.titanicvintageday. on 028 9751 2332 for details. 6Diversity will wow the Earhart 11 with man's best friend. The co.uk for more details. RUnning until September Festival in Derry from August 8-15. Dog's Trust and Ballymena Coun- 19 5, the Wallace and Gromit Sunflowerfest 2010 is running The dance troupe headline on Au- urday between llam and 3pm cil have teamed up for 'Bark in the sport, arts, drama, debates Exhibition at W5 is for all ages, 3from August 20-22 at Thbbys gust 15 but before that enjoy live throughout August and Septem- Park' at the Ballymena Ecos Centre 15 and music are in store at the free after admission to W5 (£7.50 ~Farm, Hillsborough, in aid of music, dance, face-painting and ber, Lisburn artists will sell their this Saturday, 12-3pm. Entrance is Feile Chamlocha from August 11to adult/£5.50 child). Visit F UNICEF disaster relief for Haiti. more. Visit www.facebook.com/ work on the rails outside Castle free. Phone Ballymena Council on 16 in Camlough near Newry - per- wwwwsonline.co.uk to see more. With live music, art and great food, TheEarhartFestival for more de- Gardens. Phone the Island Arts 08456 581 581. feet for an eventful day for children there is no doubt that Sunflower- tails. Visit www.millenniumforum. Centre on 028 9250 9509. and adults. Admission to be con- EnjOY the Newtownabbey fest will leave you feeling content co.uk or www.joegallagher ·1··2. Join the Great Belfast Art firmed or ring 028 3083 7056 for 20Shoreline Festival,August and camping is just £5, payable entertainments.com for tickets. Escape the grey weather as the Hunt on August 28 to meet details 28-30, with fireworks and activi- on arrival. There are also day and 8. Belfast City Blues Festival 2010 artists and curators, have a chance ties for everyone beside the sea. weekend tickets available from Cheer up one of your walls with (August 27) hosts international to win prizes and visit up to 10 art CBring your favourite teddies Visit www.newtownabbey.gov.uk \ ticketmaster.co. uk 7an original paintigg. Every Sat- musicians in the Cathedral Quar- galleries in one day. Admission is 1Uto Baby Elephant's Big Ad- or call 028 9024 6609. ,

nAugust last year the world held its breath and prayed for the 33 miners trapped underground in Chile. Jose Hen- riquez was in Craigavon last I Inight to tell how the power of the miners' shared prayers transformed the hell of a col- lapsed mine shaft into a place where miracles could really happen. More than 650 people packed into the main auditorium of Craigavon's Civic Centre to hear Jose share his inspirational story. A guest speaker at the South American Mission Society (SAMS) Ireland's Friday Night .Live event, his message was simple: faith can overcome any- Clockwise, from above: Jose in Craigavon; minutes after he was. rescued from the Chilean mine, and greeting an unidentified woman after his rescue thing. In those first bleak days before contact was made, the rest of the world was beginning to lose hope. But 2,300 feetbelow ground, the man dubbed the 'Pastor' by his workmates was leading the group in prayer. His unwavering strength of belief rallied the men and those who had begun writing wills and goodbye fetters instead threw themselves into Jose's twice daily prayer circles. After 17 long days a small tunnel finally reached the safety shaft where the men were living and we learned that all 33 had defied the odds and survived the disaster. Speaking to the Belfast Tele- graph before the event, Jose he had told them about. everything. Avote of 50% plus to know the people of Northern produced a tiny, leather-bound Mr Henriquez said: "The one was needed for every deci- Ireland. Bible, no bigger than a block of whole world knows what hap- background sion!' In a divided society such as butter, with 'Santa Biblia' in- pened in that mine from the On August 5 last year a rockfall in the San Jose gold mine Northern Ireland is a world .ours, Jose has a powerful mes- scribed in gold lettering on the outside, but nobody knows what caused a tunnel to collapse, trapping 33 workers 2,300ft away from Mr Henriquez's sage: ''Whatever your beliefs, God front. was happening on this inside. underground. They were feared dead, but after 17 days a homeland, but he has only is understanding. We all know about the food, "I am going to talk about the borehole reached their shelter and the men sent up a note to warm words. "He accepts all people and does water and essential supplies power offaith and the impor- say they were all alive. One by one they were brought to the "The people have been so not marginalise," that were passed down the tance of democracy. surface in a capsule in October, watched by the world's media, warm and welcoming!' chute to sustain the men before "But there were also some after a 69-day ordeal. He will be speaking to crowds Jose will visit Willowfield Parish their eventual rescue, but Jose miracles." gathered at churches in Belfast, Church in Belfast tonight at maintains this tiny battered lit- In such a distressing situa- Lurgan and Dollingstown over 7.30pm,St Saviour's in tle book was the real lifeline to tion, anarchy could easily have which a democracy of sorts was about food and water, what to the next couple of days and he Dollingstown tomorrow at 8.30am, the men, allowing them to gain taken over, but Jose describes created. do next, how to organise'spaces hopes his busy weekend will and Shankill Parish Church in comfort reading the Scriptures the remarkable process by ''We ad to ake decisions; to sleep and so we voted on give him an opportunity to get Lurgan tomorrow at 10.30am. FRIDAY AUGUST 20 2010 . It's murder in the kitchen of .Orient Expressfor Dick

BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE This time there was a cleaver in [email protected] his hand as he got to grips with story so far butchering the goat carcass. DICK Strawbridge is no stranger TV presenter Dick Straw- He carefully chopped it into to high-pressure situations after 21 bridge is going up against five different parts and set about years of military service. Lisa Faulkner and Christine braising the shoulder. But few will have prepared him Hamilton for the title of The gnocchi and four other for wielding an enormous kitchen Celebrity Masterchef cham- parts of the kid had to be pre- knife while on a high-speed train. pion. The Iong-running se- pared at the last minute. The 100-year-old Orient Ex- ries will reach its climax Strawbridge's military timing press, famed for luxury travel and when the champion is served him well as h brou h fine dining, was the setting for last crowned tonight. The show the elements of th om 11 night's BBC Celebrity Masterchef. is on BBCl at spm, main cours tog th . The Northern Ireland celebrity Five top chefs were W ltln Cl displayed characteristic cool as pass their xpert judgement 011 he prepared wafer-thin slivers of emulsion was up-popular with din- the efforts of the celebrity cooks. meat as the train hurtled through ers. The next challenge saw the They found fault with the tough the English countryside. former Lieutenant-Colonel receiv- meat but declared the sauce "wor- He created a complicated ing his orders from a Michelin- thy ofthree Michelin stars': starter of beef carpaccio, accom- starred chef. An exhausted-looking Straw- panied by oyster emulsion, fennel A strict, detailed set of instruc- bridge said he was delighted with and celeriac salad and champagne tions guided Dick through the the comments. caviar. preparation and cooking of kid Ahead of the final 'cook-off' Whilst his presentation was de- goat assiette with aubergine and tonight, presenter Greg WaIlace scribed by judge Gregg Wallace as basil puree and potato and parme- said the competition was "still a -first class, the "too fishy'" oyster san gnocchi. three-horse race': swarm north, but foreign tourists give Ulster a miss

BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE providing unique experiences for [email protected] factfile all of our visitors!' The weak pound hasn't had a DOMESTICholidaymakers make '.49% of our tourism earn- similar pull on the rest of the eu- up nearly 60% of our tourism ings come from domestic rozone, with total overseas visits numbers, a new report has re" and Republic ofIreland falling by 8% on the figures for vealed. ' tourists. 2008. But the number oftourists vis- The worldwide recession, un- iting Northern Ireland from over- • Visitors from Britain fell employment and poor consumer seas declined by 8% between by 15%last year. confidence are all cited by the 2008 and 2009. NITB as possible reasons for the As the Belfast Telegraph re- • There were 475,000 trips decline in foreign visitors and ported last week, the 'staycation' here from the Republic last those from Britain. ST is becoming a fashionable trend. year, the highest recorded. Tourism Ireland is responsible Figures released by the North- for promoting Northern Ireland 2 Night Midweek Deals em Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) .47% of visits to Northern and the Republic in Britain. (Sunday to Thursday) show 56%ofthe 3.3 million trips Ireland are to see friends Lawrence Bate of Tourism Ire- Two nights B&B & One Dinner taken in the province in 2009 and family. land said: "Great Britain is the were taken by Northern Ireland Figures from the NI Tourist largest and most important mar- Any 2 Nights 22nd to 26th August from £119pps residents and visitors from the Board for 2009 ket for tourism to the island ofIre- Any 2 Nights 29th Aug to 2nd Sept from £109pps Republic. land and, in this difficult year for Trips to Northern Ireland from overseas tourism, all our ener- One Night Breaks the Republic hit an all-time high and heritage and, of course, our gies are fully focused on the of475,000last year, with a strong excellent food and drink. restoration of growth from GB. from £69pps (lnc Dinner) euro encouraging Southern visi- "This positively impacts on the "Tourism Ireland has an ex- Selected Dates: 12th, 15th, 27th & 31 st August tors to stay longer and spend wider hospitality industry. ceptionally strong promotional more. In total, they stayed for Throughout tourism, we need to programme under way. All offers subject to availability and selected dates 1,273,000nights andspent£66m , keep the momentum going by "Ourlargest ever mid-yearcam- Call 028 6862 2211 for more details or visit w~bs1te while they were here. paign is tapping into the later- A spokesperson for the NITB than-ever booking trend. • Family & Interconnecting Rooms. Full Leisure Facilities inc. said:"The economic climate was ''Weare placing significant em- 20m Pool • Jacuzzi, Steam Room, Sauna'Out Door Hot Tub clearlya contributing factor,how- phasis on value-for-money offers, • Beautifullakeside Setting. _lakeview SuiIeS Available ever visitors are now realising lB pictures:Memories to drive home to British con- • Golf & Tennis on Site the great range of things to see of summer 2010 sumers our message abo Manor House Country Hotel and do throughout Northern Ire- -. e fastte egraph; superb rCl-Q,geofoffers av ..~:, EnniskiJlen, BT94 1NY ~ . land' from ourworld-class visitor ~- tiglit around the island _.manorhousecountryhotel.com I_~~'''""-'.. .&.~ ."_,","9"Io';_"'''':'ID ro111bl1'!~,"","".-u.dol.IL'Ll.. __ ~"""::"- -1.!m(L.:"=--- _ ;.... rn,. .." I">. •••••••• • e don't money was in could have been a I 's a real setback." __ lcholl is also counting • cost to her business. "Things are hard enough at the minute without having things stolen;' she said. deathin "The till itself is worth over . to build a me- £1,000 and they took quite a bit of =SEof him:," the jewellery. We're heading over . -. said: "Joey has one, so to clean up and then we'll open = . right that Robert has one. again tomorrow. - . parents helped set up a "We_can't afford to close, so it'll sculpture committee and have be business as usual. But for some- been working with the family to thing like this to happen is just so emoralislnz.; _ Belfast' NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR FNAL EDITI N

TUESDAY OaOBER 26 2010 www.belfastteleqraph.co.uk 65p (ROI €1)

NEWS 1- Expert's warning over NI economy

AN economics expert today warned the Northern Ireland economy was still likely to shrink despitethe announcement that the UK's GDP has grown. Mike Smyth, of the Uni- versity of Ulster said: "I believe the UK economy will continue to grow and that is good news. However, Northern Ireland's economy is likely to shrink because of our dependence on the public sector:' LIFE BELFAST TELEGRAPH 2 NEWS Expert in warm•ngon 'shrinking' economy

AN economics expert has today BY HEATHERMcGARRIGL E warned the Northern Ireland economy was still likely to shrink quarter following the bad weath- despite the announcement that er at the start ofthe year, the un- the UK's GDP has grown. derlying growth between July and Mike Smyth, head of economics September was actually similar at the University of Ulster, was to that of the second quarter. commenting on today's news that Year-on-year growth has recov- 'lMEATRE: Alan Bennett's play the UK economy had grown by a ered to levels seen before the re- The Habit Of Art (above) reflects on better-than expected 0.8% dur- cession, reaching 2.8% in the third growing old. on creativity and inspi- ing the third quarter. quarter - the highest annual rate ration and the unsettling desires of Mr Smyth said: "I believe the of expansion since 2007. two difficult men - WH Auden and UK economy will continue to grow While the figures are only a Benjamin Britten. Performed in the in 2011 and that is good news. It preliminary estimate and may be Grand Opera House in Belfast until reflectssuccess in the private sec- subject to change, the initial Saturday. 7.45pm (matinees tor, particularly with exports. growth figures are likely to give a Thursday 2pm & Saturday 2.30pm). "However, Northern Ireland's boost to Government deficit- Tickets: £13-£28. Tel: 02890 241919. economy is likely to shrink be- busting plans. cause we are heavily dependent on Labour leader Ed Miliband yes- MUSIC; Vladimir Jablol

DHlBITIOII: The annual Royal~ Ulster Academy exhibition at the NEWS LIFE tlJster Museum, Belfast. highlights ANDREW'S FINAL COUNTDOWN 'the best in (ontempora"y and t..ra:d:i~--.JL .•• ;n. GRANDKIDS ARE PAUN'S WORLD tinD;). ui';lI;::a .::t.d:!lLbu: lor..;:t,Gdic.f:C-J Li~=tbb..c="--~_~ .•••• .;u.,,..,..=.X....,••.•... •••...__ =oj BELFAST TELEGBAPH FRIDAY MAY 7 2010 "

: '> 'El,ECT'fO,N 20\10\ '> THE VERDfCT ,

Om ~ • '" .•• > ~ Smilesfrom .llaphne .•. "but it's easy forJeffrey

DAPHNE Thimble's smile in defeat couldn't hide her disappointment Lagan YaJJ1ev at UCUNF's disappointing showing in Lagan Valley. She graciously shook DUP vic- tor Jeffrey Donaldson's hand but was keen to give an explanation for the massive difference in votes between the two unionist parties. He was heckled as he spoke out "I was selected at the end of against "rumour mills" and de- Taking the salute: victorious Lagan Valley candidate Jeffrey Donaldson raises his arms after the result is declared COlMO'RElllY/PACEMAKER J February and did not have months clared that democracy was about and years to prepare this cam- giving the truth to the people. hind Alliance. family's support. He paid tribute paign': He said he was "committed to He said the TUV contest for the to campaign work by his daughter, However, she declared the re- working hard for all the people of seat was always going to be a who joined him on the election the statistics sult had built on her party's 2005 this constituency': and pledged "massive mountain to climb" but trail with his young grandson, lagan valley votes representing an appetite for to work towards gaining invest- that the party was happy to have He declared the Lagan Valley the Ulster Unionist alliance with ment, securing jobs and "giving fought a campaign based on prin- race a "good clean fight': DUPHOLD the ConservativeParty, which she hope to young people': cipled policy. A chorus of jeers met Paul But- said would bring Northern Ire- The DUP man spoke passion- Trevor Lunn joked that he ler as he blamed boundary Paul Butler SF 1,465 land into mainstream politics. ately about division in unionism "would have preferred another changes f6r the reduced Sinn Fein But the size of the DUPvictory and said the voters he spoke to 10,000 votes': but was delighted vote in constituency. Jeffrey Donaldson DUP 18,199 was evident that the voters had had echoed his views. with the Alliance result, made all The TUV supporters were vocal Keith Harbinson TUV 3,154 shown little appetite for the Ulster He insisted that the unionist the sweeter by reports of Naomi throughout his speech; Mr Butler Unionist/Tory alliance. parties should now be united and Long's shock win in East Belfast. retorted that the party would need Brian Heading SDLP 1,835 Mr Donaldson's victory speech that working together they would He said: "It makes this the best to embrace partnership politics if was drowned out by the cheers of "win seats back for unionism". night ever, we can move forward they had hopes of gaining assem- Trevor Lunn Alliance 4,174 his supporters, who took to their He concluded by thanking the with confidence and good spirits blyseats. Daphne Trimble UCUNF 7,713 feet as his result was announced. voters for their endorsement. and look forward to next year's as- All in all a night which brought He said it was a "fairly fought With just over 3000 votes the sembly elections" few surprises, disappointment to and well-won campaign" which TUV's Keith Harbinson took The SDLP's Brian Heading was some, but high emotions through- Majority 10,486 . Turnout 56.23% WItS "the essence of democracy". fourth place, over 1000 votes be- also upbeat and focused on his out. i'RIDAY AUGUST 13 2010

The fasltlioll e:J:tra'!;ag2WlQ; .cks off on October underground car ow in Victoria Square. A steel runway snaking Iround the car park will show- ease the latest looks from House )f Fraser, Urban Outfitters and red Baker, among others. October 14 sees the start of .he catwalk shows, with a night Stores such as Dorothy Perkins )f designer collections from and Exhibit. The masterclass se- lames such as Una Rodden and ries is being expanded this year, !\lan Beattie, with a model industry master- Top boutiques joining the class taking place for the first ~lamour at the Europa Fashion- time on Saturday. The full-day veek centre in Glengall Street event begins at 8.30am, with a .nclude Silk in Newry and Hills- host of industry experts provid- )orough's Candy Plum. ing guidance. The best ofthe high street Participants will leave with a will be on display the following portfolio of shots by top night, with an eclectic mix of photographer Kara Pringle and stores bringing their latest lines get the opportunity to soak up ro the catwalk. invaluable advice from Britain's French Connection and Lipsy Next Top Model judge Grace Willbe there, as well as Karen Woodward. Millen, Wonderbra and Liberty The top wannabe model on Blue. the day will be chosen to model Saturday night's catwalk fi- in the finale show and all book- nale brings the runway shows to ings include a ticket to the show, 1fitting close. Highlights of the so nobody misses the fun. [light will include the student Rounding off the week is the design competition 'Love it ever-popular Style Sunday Light', sponsored by Diet Coke, event. This year, it takes place in and a selection from Westfield James Street South. factfile: fashionweek dates

October 13: Designers and retail- week centre, begins 8pm. £12. ers; underground show at Victoria October 16: Full day model mas- Square car park, begins 8pm. Tick- terclass;begins 8.30am. For de- ets £12. -tails, 02890324437. Finale; October 14: Designers and design- Catwalk show at Europa Fashion- er boutiques; Catwalk show at Eu- week centre, b~gins 8pm. £12. . ropa Fashionweek centre, begins October 17:Vodafon"eStyleSun- Bpm. £12. day; ILuncheon at James Street October 1S: High Street Heaven; South, begins 1pm. Tickets £45. Catwalk show at Europa Fashion- Phone 028 9043 4310. e- Pizza Hut inn bosses try to defuse 'racerow

BY NEIL LANCEFIELD

A RESTAURANT chain today ordered its staff not to ask for payment before a meal after all incident involving a group ofblad< footballers. The AFC Bournemouth player> were angered after being told tc are pay the bill before being servec with their food at Pizza Hut. Midfielder Anton Robinson was reportedly told by the restaurant manager that the request was made because of their appear, ance. He told the Daily Echo: "W{ had a good idea what he was get ting at. A group of white kids came in straight after us and the) weren't asked to pay before the) had their food. "The only thing that was differ ent was the colour of our skins:' Immediately following the inci dent three weeks ago, Pizza Hu said the request had not beer racially motivated, but done 01 the advice of police to stop cus tomers leaving without paying. But the restaurant giant ha: now ordered staff not to ask fo: money in advance. It said in a statement: "Follow ing a recent incident, we want t( reiterate that we strongly OpPOs( any form of stereotyping and w( have reminded staff at all of ou restaurants to use our standarr policy of asking for payment afte is month the judge struck the meal:' case as O'Neill Fuels had Graeme McDowell holds aloft his RYESports Person of the Year award, which he lifted last night Simon Woolley, director of cam red a defence. The court paign group Operation Black Vote rd O'Neill's had ceased said: "Pizza Hut have demonstrat and may have limited as- McDowell SCOOpStop RTE sports prize ed that a good employer can dea with these problems witl n Monday the company GOLFER Graeme McDowell has BYHEAYHERMcGARRIGLE Ireland BBC Sports Personality honesty and integrity. d guilty of supplying con- been crowned RTE Sports Person _ of the Year, but missed out on the "Moreover, they learn fron ed products and was or- of the Year. The gong capped off an astonish- the BBC's main Sports Personali- their mistakes and come out evei pay damages. He picked up his award at the ing year for McDowell who, in ty. Although shortlisted and tipped stronger:' ing after the damages glittering RTE Sports Awards 2010 June, became the first European by many as the favourite, the The incident occurred whei arded, Millstream direc- last night, in front of sporting stars winner of the US Open for 40 years. golfer missed out to jockey, anoth- five Bournemouth players - fou een Hogg said her family from across the island of Ireland. The 31-year-old sank the win- er Ulsterman, Tony McCoy. black and one white - went fo eved that they had been The Portrush man beat off stiff ning putt to claim the Ryder Cup for Dennis Taylor, meanwhile, cel- lunch at the town's Castle Lan ed. competition from eight other Europe at Celtic Manor, won the ebrated the 25th anniversary of West Pizza Hut outlet. re delighted with the out- finalists, including three fellow_ Andalucia ValderramaMasters and his World Snooker Championship. The restaurant chain has nov d the judgment after what Ulstermen - Grand National beat Tiger Woods to win the win over Steve Davis by being apologised to the players and wil n two very difficult years;' winner Tony McCoy, golfer Rory Chevron World Challenge. inducted into the RTE/Irish make a contribution to a charit McIlroy and boxer Paddy Barnes. He was also voted Northern Sports Council Hall of Fame. oftheir choice. lye: Edward Little from Annahilt tackles a fence and Iht) glamorous Angela Byrne from Co Louth

he RDS Arena in Dublin was transformed y.ester- . day into a sea of peacock feathers, polka dots and parasols. TABthe Blossom Hill Ladies Day got under way, it was clear many of the glamorous hopefuls were aiming for the new prize of 'Most Colourful Outfit'. From flirty Forties frocks to floor-skimming ballgowns, the palette encompassed hot pinks, canary yellows, deep purples Heather McGarrigle and lipstick reds. More than 650 well-heeled women queued up for their jeans and T-shirt!" A few funny chance to be crowned Best glances from fellow air trav- Dressed Lady, making this the ellers were all worth it, as she biggest ever Ladies' Day. Not was awarded the Most Creative surprising, given that the win- Hat prize. ner walks away with a €10,000 Northern Ireland was well- holiday. represented, according to or- Michelle Foley from Notting- ganiser Joanne Byrne. "We had ham made the trip over from a couple of girls who arrived in England to showcase her ele- gant peacock-feather headpiece. The 20-year-old said: "I had to INSIDE 0 wear it over on the plane be- Results and all the action cause it was too delicate to put in hand luggage. I looked a bit from the main arena strange wearing it with my Sport, Page 69

'e: Noelle Bolan cheeses an oriental theme for her t while (right) Linda Ferris, Betsy Dunn, Graham and Joyce Long from Donaghadee enioy the show all their finery in the morning to enter, then promptly got changed to compete in the horse competitions in the evening. Christina Duddy from Londonderry with her horse. Mullaghbane ''Northern Ireland girls are well capable of double-jobbing!" Sadly, there were no Northern Ireland winners, however, Joyce Christina boxes Long (59) from Donaghadee said the competition was a spectacle worth travelling for. "Ladies' Day is definitely a clever with Irish highlight of the show. It's great to see all the girls making such an effort and to enjoy the sight of all the fashions on show:' Army equine job Best Dressed Lady: Yvonne EI- lard, Donnybrook; €10,000 trip to San Francisco and LA' BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE Most Colourful Outfit: Laoise Hughes, Kilcullen; €2,000 CHRISTINA Duddy's brother may factfile Longines watch be The Derry Destroyer but he • Competitors: 1,400. Highly Commended: Miriam can't bear to see his little sister in • Trade stands: 300. Keane, Terenure and Searon the ring.That ring is usually in a • Total prize money: McGrattan, Donnybrook; each showground where she faces op- €920,000. win €500 Arnott's vouchers ponents on horseback, but John • International jumping Best Dressed Male: Paul Mor- Duddy still gets brotherly nerves competitions: 15. rissey, Castletroy; €500 when he sees her compete. • National jumping compe- Arnott's vouchers The former IBA World and titions: 30. Most Creative Hat: Michelle WEC Continental Americas mid- • Competition rings: six. Foley, Nottingham; €500 dleweight title holder is fiercely • Since it was first held in Arnott's vouchers. proud of Londonderry girl Christi- 1864 the Horse Show - a cel- na, now a full-time member of ebration of Ireland's affinity the Irish Army Equitation School. with the horse - has become She said: "The school promotes a Dublin institution. Ireland and Irish horses; all our horses are Irish-bred and we take them to compete all over the tacking up the animals in prepa- world." ration for competition. She told of a life-long love of She hasn't had much time to horses as she prepared stallion enjoy the show she's working at, Mullaghbane for Captain David but says there is huge interest O'Brien's upcoming competition from Northern Ireland. at the Dublin Horse Show. "I'm based in barracks in Dublin . "I got my first pony when I was permanently, but I know there 17and used to compete as part of are loads of people coming down Glenamore Stables, back home in from round our way back home. Derry. I joined the pony club and It's not surprising, it is the best took part in triathlons and compe- show of the year:' titions. Mum always told John John may not share his little sis- she couldn't bear to watch him in ter's love of all things equine, but the ring. When I started compet- they share a mutual respect for ing, John told her he could relate each other's achievements. to that, because he got so stressed "He's a brilliant fighter,I'm so every time I was in the ring!" proud of him. I didn't realise how The pretty 20-year-old has been big he was until I was sitting in a full-time member of the Irish de- Madison Square Gardens and fence forces for two years, and heard the crowd chanting his was able to combine this with her name! He's always been into his love of horses over a year ago. boxing, he's never had an interest She assists with the welfare of in horses. But he's really proud of the orses. often brushing and me." RAIN fell intermittently until exactly 2.52pm, when the sun broke through the clouds and welcomed the brass band on to the grass of the main arena on the third day of Ireland's biggest horse show. The pomp and circumstance was fitting for a showjumping contest originally devised in 1909 for military teams. The band's immaculate uni- forms and stirring music denot- ed the importance of the occasion as the chatter of more than 12,000 excited spectators 'subsided to an expectant hush. The prize, the prestigious Aga Banbridge man Dermot Khan Challenge trophy, has Lennon must have been able to been won outright five times hear his own pulse as he waited and was presented by the Aga to lead Hallmark Elite into com- Khan in 1980 following Ireland's petition. 1979 triumph. The Meydan FEI Nations' Cup Speaking before the Cup, Der- has been the event on everyone's mot said: "The Dublin Horse lips for the past three days, Show is more important than all drawing the biggest crowds the the others. The home show, competition has seen this week, home crowd, so we want to do including hundreds from Der- well. mot's home. He must have felt "With Nations' Cups in gener- that every eye from both sides of al, you will always try to do your best, so it's not a case of trying - harder here. But you are con- scious that you want to give the home fans something to cheer All the action and results about. Or watch in replay, as you from the Dublin Horse fall off:' he joked. Show He continued: "The whole Sport, Page 47 squad is really up for it here. It wouldn't matter if we were win- the border was on him. As the ning the league or were last, we only Northern Ireland competi- approach each competition the tor, and one of the lucky four se- same. You want to do well, be- lected from the five-strong Irish cause you want to do well:' team to compete, the pressure Ireland didn't repeat their was intensified. 1979 glory, but came fourth Add to that his fall in the overall with France in first British National Cup only a place, followed by the USA and week before, when he fell from Great Britain in second and the gelding at the water, and third. Dermot must have had doubts The Dublin leg brings to an about getting back into the sad- end the overall Nations' Cup, dle. which saw heats in France, Italy, Speaking in the Irish Examin- Switzerland, the Netherlands, er Dermot said: "We are both Germany, Sweden and the UK. fine, thank God. We had a lucky Lennon is still the hero of the escape. hour for the Northern Ireland "Mentally he is sound too. He crowd. Erica Viking from Lis- jumps fine. I was happy enough burn said: "Dermot did us with him." . proud today." The trials of a winning trainer

RICHARD Iggluden 59-year-old. With three knows the meaning of wins and three second- the word pressure. place results so far, With the hopes of there's much for Richard nearly a dozen people in Iggluden to celebrate. his hands, it hasn't been But he is taking noth- an easy week. ing for granted."One of He is the owner of Or- our best horses ended chard Cottage stables, up in fifth place yester- just outside Comber, day, so you just can't call and has spent this week it sometimes. preparing 11horses for a "You do your best, variety of competitions. working with the horses ''We ride and compete and preparing them, but the horses for our clients. sometimes it's all down When you're riding for to how they feel and how other people; who have they behave on the day:' money and hopes invest- This doesn't take away ed in you, expectations from the excitement of are pretty high:' competition though, es- He has needed all pecially an Irish one. .hands oIl deck. "Dublin Horse show is The hard wo.rk has the creme de la creme:' hnUTPVp.rn;;t.irl off for the he said:' THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 9 2010

N~tasha Spence from Ballymoney who will lie c.ompe,ing in n;4's country music talent sho~ GlorTire , ~~-' . ~ - • > Natasha hopes tQ.gQ down a/strum on TV

A PERFORMING arts graduate BY HEATHER MCG~ The Ballymoney girl is busy ,is swapping the classroom for practising ahead ofthe show, centre stage. which begins next week. The former student of North- -,-'Natas a Spence recent1y com- . She will compete against -:- ern Regional College's Bally- pleted a National Diploma in ».other performers; hoping to money campus is representing performing arts at NRC and gain the support of the public, -, the Indian Showband in TG4's while studying also recorded who will have the final say as country music talent show, Glor her album, Everything That they vote for their favourite rue. , Glitters. country music star. The Belfast Telegraph Tell Us About It Roadshow visited Portaferry BY HEATHERMcGARRIGLE ing out about the ups and downs Joe Boyle, Ards mayor David yesterday, where our reporters Heather McGarrigle and Lesley-Anne AND LESLEY-ANNE HENRY of daily life. Smyth and chairman of Portafer- enry spoke to many residents including Caroline Nolan (below) Later, in the Exploris Aquarium, ry Regeneration, Doug Edmond- and Maurice O'Connor (bottom) about issues in the town THE Belfast Telegraph Tell Us Belfast Telegraph editor. Mike son. About It Roadshow took the boat Gilson and the newspaper's polit- The people we talked to in to Portaferryyesterdayto find out ical editor David Gordon joined Portaferry displayed huge pride in what issues matter to the people politicians and public figures for their town. of the picturesque harbour loca- a Question Time-style debate. "Friendly" and "community tion. Answering questions and lis- spirit" were the words we heard Reporters Lesley-Anne Henry tening to opinions were Strang- time and again, as residents paint- and Heather McGatrigle spent ford MP Jim Shannon from the ed a picture of a peaceful place to the day in the heart of the town, DUP,Alliance councillor and MU live,with a cross-community ethos speaking to residents and find- Kieran McCarthy, SDLPcouncillor at its heart. what you said

MARCELLA DOHERTY ZOE DOYLE- MOTHER-OF-TWO MOTHER-OF-TWO

"Nobody has any jobs in Porta- "I think more attention needs ferry. There are no businesses to be drawn to the things apart from pubs and a couple there are to see and do around of wee shops. A lot have closed Portaferry. There's an amaz- down and it has got worse in ing shipwreck off the Shore the last year. When the bank Road and Windmill Hill has a closed down that did a lot of fantastic history. It's such a damage. People don't seem to friendly town and during Gala come to Portaferry anymore," Week we get to show it off."

ANGElA FITZMAURICE CAROLlNE NOLAN CREDIT UNION EMPLOYEE STRANGFORD LOUGH & LECALE PARTNERSHIP MANAGER "I was born and bred in Porta- ferry. We are really spoilt with "I came to Portaferry from the scenery. It's a beautiful London in 1993. I had intend- place to live and the Portafer- ed to spend two years here but ry Sailing Club brings a lot of it's such a beautiful place, I people to the town at week- never left. The people are ends and over the holidays. great, they have a strong sense . --~The Ex ~dplorisl-'" centre'- is also_ of community support. I love the landscape and wildlife!' BELFAST TELEGRAPH NEWS 21 on crest of a wave Remote location a plus and minus for local people

THEY are isolated and their BY LESLEY-ANNE HENRY town needs a bit of a spruce-up, AND HEATHER McGARRIGLE but in general people from [email protected] Portaferry are pretty happy with their lot. Bus service provision is also "There's no politics down an issue. here. You'd rarely see a flag," Zoe Doyle (22), a mother-of- said a shopkeeper, whose prem- two, said: "The bus service is ises are in the main square. terrible here. ' "There is a great cross-com- "On Sunday there are only a munity spirit - but it's not few buses. forced - it's just the way of life. ''A while ago I had to take the People seem to get on with each bus to Belfast to visit a friend in other." hospital and the bus wasn't Situated at the southern tip of pram-friendly, so it was tough the Ards Peninsula, Portaferry is for a woman on her own." one of the most picturesque Portaferry is home to two of towns anywhere in Northern Northern Ireland's most popu- Ireland. lar tourist attractions - the Ex- And the locals, who enjoy a ploris Aquarium and the laidback, outdoors lifestyle are Strangford ferry; understandably proud of their Queen's University also has a surroundings - an Area of Out- marine laboratory research fa- standing Natural Beauty and cility overlooking the lough and Special Scientific Interest. Unfortunately, however, it is Portaferry's stunning but re- INSIDE. ., mote location that is the cause of some of the town's main Secret high-level talks problems. with Taliban leaders A number of premises in the have begun town centre have been forced to close and much of the main News, Page 26-27 re of the town's only This drain on shoppers was pair and were worried this would square now lies. derelict, while cing people to travel to having a knock-on effect on jobs, put tourists off coming back. the rest of the small, family-run Seagen recently installed the as foot-fall in the town centre Tourism is an important indus- businesses are struggling for first marine energy turbine in owner Col m McCarthy dried up. try for the town, with its famous survival in the tough economic the mouth of the lough. was having an adverse ef- Several buildings looked neg- ferry and aquarium, but people climate. Tony Reid (28) was among the de. lected and some were derelict. think the area needs work. Like many small towns in dozens' of passengers who trav-

d: "People used to go to Mr McCarthy added: "The con- Some said that having more to Northern Ireland, unemploy- elled across on the Strangford I in Portaferry to cash struction industry would have do in Portaferry would keep visi- ment is a big issue. ferry yesterday. e cheques and would been a big employer down here tors coming back. Patricia Breen, an 85-year-old "I'm from Downpatrick but their weekly shop in the too, so a lot of skilled people are Zoe Doyle said: "There's not grandmother-of-30, said: "I take my son Eoin (2) down to re. Now they have to go out of work in Portaferry." much entertainment. Severalbars .Iiave never lived anywhere else, the Exploris Aquarium on a reg- bin and they're buying Many people we spoke to re- have closed. We would go to so I can't compare Portaferry. ular basis. ries there instead:' ferred to buildings being in disre- Belfast or Bangor for a night out:' But I think it's great. "He just loves it. It is a bril- "The' only thing that's bad is liant facility and it's pretty the closure of the bank. handy for me. ''We have to go out of town ''We got the ferry over, which now if we want to do ourbank- was only £1 each way - you ing, and it's a bit of a drive for a couldn't be bad to it at all, it's PAULSMYTH woman of my age:' terrific value:' UNEMPLOYED

sound like a wee "Jobs around here are very I think dog dirt in hard to come by. We really See tomorrow's is getting out of could do with having a bank e harbour front is a here as well. Ever since the Telegraph for in the summer. Northern Bank was closed, the full debate first daughter was only bank we have is in Kir- to walk, I didn't let cubbin, which is seven miles coverage from of the pram in case away. It's especially hard for ...rud~.f>Sid~nts,,-," _ Portaferry MONDAY AUGUST9 2010

Writeback: Main losers in Maze wrangle are real sports fans PAGE 2& C

Rescue: A brother and sister are brought ashore at Ballycastle by the Red Bay lifeboat crew KEVIN McAULEY RNLI saves pair stranded on rocks

AN RNLI volunteer carried out a BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE and swam over to the pair on the He said: "Although people like dramatic solo rescue by swim- [email protected] rocks. to walk in this scenic area of north ming from a lifeboat to the aid of One by one, they were rescued Antrim, it can be a very dangerous a brother and sister stranded upon for help at 6.25pm on Saturday, using a rope and recovered onto spot. rocks. prompting the first callout for the lifeboat before landing at Bal- And Mr McLaughlin comment- The stricken young man, be- Red Bay RNU's new lifeboat. lycastle. ed on the successful first call out lieved to be 23, and his 14-year-old The Atlantic 85 lifeboat Geof- The relieved brother and sister for the new lifeboat. sister got into difficulty while frey Charles was launched and escaped injury and required no "The two people are recover- walking in the boulder field at . battled rough waters to make it to further medical attention. ing well from their ordeal;' Fair Head rocks on the north the rocks. Red Bay RNLI helm Paddy He added: "The new lifeboat Antrim coast. A volunteer crew member then McLaughlin warned of the dan- was only put on station less than The RNLI received their call donned a drysuit and lifejacket gers of coastal walks. a fortnight ago;' p forward: More Northern Ireland people are staying at home to visit attractions such as the Giant's Causeway, our only world heritage site £50m boost to economy as we shun sunny Spain for'staycations'

NORTHERN Ireland holidaymak- BY HEATHERMcGARRIGLE Belfast and there's definitely more doing things to attract the locals. rs are shunning the sun in favour [email protected] ofthem coming now:' It's a place of huge cultural signif- of 'stay cations'. factfile NITB described the economic icance and we should be proud of The Office of National Statistics This meant an additional £48m NORTHERN IRELAND 'STAYCATION' STATISTICS* climate as "a contributing factor" our heritage. If tourists come from released a report that stated of holiday spending stayed in the • Total holiday trips: Up from 218,000 to 399,000 to the rise in domestic tourism. around the. world to see these Britons are expected to take five province. • Total holiday spend: Up from £49m !o £73m A spokesman continued: "How- million more holidays at home NITB believes the trend is set to • Short trips (1-3 nights): Up 201,000 to 392,000 ever, visitors are now realising this year. continue. A spokesman said: • Short trip spend: Up from £44m to £72m the great range of things to see ONLINE 0 Statistics released by the ONS "Data for January to April indi- *8ased on figures for the period Jan-Apr 2009 compared to the and do throughout Northern Ire- howed that overseas trips from cates that the significant growth period Jan-Apr 2010 land; from our world class visitor Out and about: things to Britain fell by 15% last year with in domestic tourism realised in attractions to our unique culture do in Northern Ireland visits to once-popular Spain down 2009 continued into the first four and heritage and of course our ex- www.belfasttelegrapb. by 19%. months of 2010." hotels and tourist attractions have which offers long treks across the cellent food and drink:' Northern Ireland Tourism Neighbouring areas are also noticed a rise in the number of beaches of the beauty spot. Caroline Redmond, manager co.ukjentertainment Board figures tell a similar story. seeing the benefits of this new Northern Ireland visitors through ''We get quite a lot of clients ofthe famous Carrick-a-Rede rope Between 2008 and 2009, the holiday habit. their doors. from Northern Ireland but I bridge in Ballintoy, agreed. things every year, it's about time number of people enjoying a break Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal, is a Helen McDaid is eo-owner of would say there have been extra "We have seen an increase in we had some pride in 'Northern at home in Northern Ireland shot picturesque town on the north- Dunfanaghy Stables, a popular numbers coming over the past local people coming to the bridge, Ireland and came to visit these upby 351,000, an increase of 34%. west coast. Owners of some of its centre based at Arnold's Hotel, year or so. A lot would be from but purely because we have been places ourselves:' US li,__ boosted by ATGplan for 50 jobs

BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE [email protected]

ENTERPRISE Minister Arlene Foster today announced that US- owned company ATG is planning to create 50 new high quality software development jobs, with £500,000 of support from Invest Northern Ireland. The company currently employs 62 people at its Gloucester Street offices. With a client base of over 1,200 companies that conduct business in more than 50 countries, ATG Chris Martin. Fivemiletown Creamery key account manager and Nicola Getty of the regiC! (Art Technology Group) is a lead- team at Sainsbury's. show off the newest big cheese to go on the shelves throughout thl ing global player in the development of e-commerce software and cross-channel commerce solutions. Visit: Bill Clinton Local creamery is the big eh Its clients include brands such as Tesco, B&Q, Tommy Hilfiger, further indication of strengthen- Bol.com and JC Penney. ing bonds between Northern Ire- A CO TYRONE cheese maker is BY MARGARET CANNING "Earlier this ye land and the US. celebrating after it won a new [email protected] commenced a maj The investment announcement contract with supermarket giant its speciality chee and ice hockey match have both Sainsbury's worth £500,000. "Oakwood Grated offers con- "Fivemiletown 1200 helped to create optimism in Fivemiletown Creamery will sumers a new twist on convention- presented with the The client base of Northern Ireland ahead of this supply its Oakwood smoked grat- al. grated products. It has been vamping the Taste month's US NI Economic confer- ed cheddar to 250 UK stores. extremely popular in Northern product to aid grc firms that do business ence. Sales manager Kevin McManus Ireland Sainsbury's stores and we category. with ATG Taking place on October 19 in said the product was developed to hope this success will continue "This has beer Washington, the conference will meet changing consumer tastes in the new Great Britain stores exercise and a rea be chaired by US Secretary of and the need for convenience. where it is now being listed." The creamery The minister said: "Generating State Hillary Clinton. "Consumers' tastes have ma- Last year the co-op won a con- into own-brand sJ upwards of £2m in salaries annu- Her husband, former President tured considerably in the last tract to supply its smoked brie and cheddar.It I ally, this is great news for the local Bill Clinton visited Londonderry three years and shoppers are con- for Sainsbury's Taste the Differ- for other compan economy and underscores North- this week and spoke of Northern stantly seeking products which ence range. Mr McManus said Cheese Strings p: ern Ireland's position as a highly Ireland's potential to attract for- not alone offers a stronger taste sales ofthe brie product had gone Group and also p regarded investment location. eign investment. profile, but which can be used as up by 75% following a revamp of product whey to 1 '~TG has operations across the Ken Volpe, senior vice presi- part of convenient cooking. the range. the Republic. world but has chosen to locate dent of products and technology these new jobs in Belfast because at ATG, said: "Our experience in of the quality of the workforce it Belfast has been excellent, and can access here and the support our continued investment here Software firm eyes three new m; offered by Invest NI." reflects our confidence in our ex- The investment announcement isting team and the calibre oflocal comes on the eve of the Boston technology professionals we are A LONDONDERRY-based soft- BY HEATHER MCGARRIGLE tion surroundin Bruins clash with the Belfast Gi- looking to recruit. ware business has announced a and informatioi ants Selects in the Odyssey, which "We consider our Northern Ire- £127,000 expansion programme. GRC) solutions it says enables or- Assistance 01 will be attended by the minister land office to be an integral. part The growth will see MetaCom- ganisations to automate, enforce fered by Invest s and a number of investors, in- of our worldwide research and pliance expand into the UK, Re- and manage user activity to aid in- costs of the expa eluding ATG senior company rep- development operations, which public of Ireland and European formation assurance. which will alsc ___ ...... ,r~e<2s~en!i:ta~~t~-iv~:.:e-~~::::s::... .~-.-~~I?!~~:;~:~~~~in our overall markets. The firm offers IT gover- MetaCompliance helps company's workforce nance, risk and compliance (IT nies comply with complex legisla- 12by the end 0 IS en] her strong online presence

BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE [email protected]

A BELFAST artist is encouraging other art entrepreneurs to think creatively about business during the recession. Jolie Dennison has been a pro- fessional artist since moving here a decade ago from the US. She is a mixed media artist, working in acrylic paints, inks, gesso and col- lage and she also works as anarts facilitator, specialising in children's workshops. . She has harnessed the power ofthe internet to sell and market her work and feels that creating a strong online presence is the best way for the creative industries to thrive in today's economic climate. She said: "As recently as a few years ago, the best way to sell art was through traditional art galleries. The shift in the economy changed all that and luxury goods, such as art, really suffered. Gal- leries are having trouble moving even the most well-known artists:' . Ms Dennison has worked since 2001 to build an identity for her work using social media. She has found Facebook to be particularly useful. Lending itself well to image sharing and conver- sations, the networking site has enabled her to build relationships, Jolie Dennison is encouraging other artists to sell and market their work through the internet after being successful with some of her own creations something she says has proved lucrative. demonstration videos and pro- thinking creatively in the real "It's a fantastic marketing tool She advises writing down goals - indeed all businesses - cannot ''When people were looking for motional material, a .Flickr ac- world too. "Cooperating with .that clients love, because it's not and starting slowly. '~ artist who avoid for long. ''The more an artist Christmas gifts, they remembered count displaying photographs of other businesses allows us both to a heavy handed sales pitch. It ini- wants to make a living from their or business engages with people me and I had a very busy fourth her work, a Twitter account keep- share a customer base. tially took place in Michael's salon work has to wear a lot of hats. We online, the more far-reaching they quarter last year;' said Jolie. ing followers updated on her ac- "For example, J am beginning to but the in-home events will follow are producing the work and then can be. "In addition to art sales tivities and several' online shops work with Michael Quinn Hair- a similar format with the hostess we also have to get it out there;' . "Most of my sales at Christmas and commissions, I've been con- from which her creations are dressing on a project involving earning credit to spend on our she said. "If you aren't naturally were from people overseas," she tacted by several arts organisa- available to purchase. in-home 'diva soirees' that will products and services." business savvy, do your research said. tions to facilitate art workshops Ms Dennison believes that the combine hairdressing and cre- Business and marketing do not: - there is a wealth of information "Anyone who wants to stay for kids." key to succeeding in the creative ative demos with the ability to always come naturally to an artist, online." relevant needs to realise this The artist also has a YouTube industry is accessibility. As well as purchase our products, including but Ms Dennison insists it is a Embracing online interaction is is how people are interacting channel, featuring her own art using the worldwide web, she is my painted jewellery. skill which can be learned. something Jolie believes all artists now." s us ness or e Investment arguably among the most signif- banking market. icant on an all-Ireland basis. In 2002 it floated with a dual And the fact that a Northern listing in Dublin and London Irish company carried of the and around two years ago biggest title at the Ernst & it began developing and selling Young Entrepreneur of the Year its own award last night makes it all the So, in 1996, he started Fir!!!; more worth celebrating. Derivatives as a consultancy Brian Conlon followed in the and services business, aimed at foo\.st PR of former Northern the investment banking market. (1'1Nh wlun I' Peter Fitzgeraldof The company grew organically Rnndox to win the award for his from there. In 2002 it floated, ' work In setting up and making a taking a dual listing in Dublin huge success of First Derivatives and London. Just over two years in Newry. 11 set up the compa- ago, it began developing and ny in 1996 and It now trades on the London Stock Exchange and the Irish Stock Exchange. 'His clients It has chosen Newry for the include nine of location of its research and development centre, its capital markets competency centre and the 10 largest its near-shore support facilities. Th ornpany also has premises US investment In four continents to look after banks' a c Its clients around the world. y Those clients include nine of th 10 largest US investment banks, including Barclays, selling its own software. Merrill Lynch, Fidelity and And it's ever since it began Goldman Sachs, 30 of the developing and selling software Il ohs world's top hedge funds, two that First Derivatives has made of the world's largest Stock Ex- . headlines. changes and three of the largest Its acquisitions have also 11 J In It BY MARGARET CANNING an excellent long-term future. and planned to relaunch the retail banks in South East Asia. earned it exposure, including haln have bUltel~belrasttelegraph,co,uk "However, we need to restruc- Clockwork Orange website He was a Co DownGaelic US company LakeFront Data r IL business ture costs to match current in Belfast. football player in the mid-1980s. and Irish company Cognotec trueturlng, It has emerged. has since closed down. trading conditions and the steps He operates two stores in He learned his trade as an and further purchases could be SVM 'Iextlles, headed up by A spokesman said: "SVM we have taken today give us the Victoria Square, one a Clockwork accountant with KPMG and on the cards. Sarn Morrlson, went into admin- Textiles Ltd was placed in admin- opportunity to do that. Orange and the other a -went to work for Morgan Stan- But first, there's some Istration but its assets have now istration on Wednesday but its "I'm delighted we have been Tommy Hilfiger. ley. In his London years, he was champagne to be uncorked as been bought by sister company assets were immediately acquired able to secure a positive outcome Mr Morrison's father, also called famously treated for his knee Mr Conlon celebrates his Hire Class. by a sister company, Hire Class both for our loyal customer base Sam Morrison, is the chairman of injury by the same surgeon who well-deserved win. The company, which was set Ltd, headed by Mr Morrison," and particularly for the 99 staff property company Corbo which up in 1987, operates nine fashion It is understood high rents whose jobs will transfer across to owns retail parks around North- • • • • • ••• .. '", . shops in Northern Ireland includ- for the shops have forced the the new company." ern Ireland. Ing Clockwork Orange stores and restructuring. He said the business would con- News of SYM's restructuring franchise outlets selling the In a statement, Mr Morrison tinue to focus on popular brands comes after figures showed retail Burger King'S arch Tommy Hilfiger brand. said: "Our business has built a such as Diesel, G-STAR, Ugg and sales volumes were weaker than It also operated the Miss Sixty very strong reputation fOJ;young Paul's Boutique. He also said he expected in September due to franchise through a store in men's and women's fashion 'had identified further sites for anxiety over the government's enemy in profit leap Belfast's Wellington Place, which brands and we're confident it has Tommy Hilfiger franchise stores deficit-busting cuts. ast food giant McDon- rival Burger King, which was ald's continued to make. sold for £2.6bn last month mince meat of its rivals to 3G Capital, made up of Bombardier programme running ,on schedule from July to September. some well-known Brazilian Punters were enticed to businessmen. THE first phase of Bombardier's BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE area, a low contamination 'clean facility, and I am delighted that the golden arches by new menu One analyst said:"McDon- £520m aircraft manufacturing bustel@belfasttelegraph,co.uk room' area and an area for tool the first phase of this major invest- items in the US, such as one ald's is full-steam ahead, and programme in Belfast has been storage.The main equipment is ment - the largest ever in North- dollar breakfasts, and longer they'll continue to take market completed on schedule. investment in Northern Ireland. It currently being installed in the ern Ireland - is now complete. opening hours in Europe. share domestically and interna- The 600,000 sq ft facility will follows a difficult business period, new facility. ''We are also progressing with McD's made £883m, 10% up tionally." Continued servings of house the manufacture and as- during which the company Michael Ryan, vice-president the composite wing development on the same period last year. Happy Meals at McDonald's, sembly of the advanced compos- lost 900 subcontractors and and general manager of Bom- and test programme as planned, Those healthy figures copper- then, but aficionados of Burger ite wings for the CSeries aircraft. 300 employees. bardier Aerospace, said: '~ year and look forward to starting fastened its recession-proof sta- King will wait and see what The CSeries wing programme The first phase of the new build- ago, we celebrated the start of production of the CSeries aircraft tus but also contrasted sharply menu changes come their way represents the largest-ever single ing incorporates a production construction of this brand new wing early next year:' with the fortunes of its closest with BK's new owners. Harbour outlines £250mCity Quays plan

BELFAST Harbour has confirmed BY HEATHERMCGARRIGLE plans for a £250m 'City Quays' [email protected] development in the heart of the city's maritime district. Science Park, and Belfast The 20-acre scheme, centred Metropolitan College. around Clarendon Dock, is It would link them to the city planned to link the 185-acre centre through a new cycle and Titanic Quarter development to pedestrian bridge. the city centre. Mr O'Hagan said: "The scheme Anita Donnelly, branch manager of Ulster Bank in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, (rig As part of the ongoing has generated significant inter- Ardboe workshop of ceramic artist Diane McCormick to see her design for transformation of Belfast's wa- . est and support from a wide range Festival at Queen's Audience Award. The festival has commissioned the awa terfront area, the project is de- of stakeholders who have been best show as voted for by audiences. The award is supported by a Reach inv signed to provide commercial consulted as part of the master- Business Northern Ireland. Cast your vote at www.ulsterbank.com/arts· offices, shops, cafes, restaurants, planning process. hotel space and residential ace ''We will continue to involve commodation. and engage with these groups as Both residents and visitors the scheme develops in terms of would be able to benefit from layout and uses:' Telecoms giant to d educational, arts and cultural The proposed bridge would also facilities. integrate City Quays with the first Sir Nick Grimshaw, the award- phase of Belfast's new bus-based winning architect behind rapid transit system. intake of new appre Cornwall's Eden Project, is Most of the scheme has been set creating the master-plan for City aside for commercial office space, TELECOMS giant ET is to double BYALAN JONES Quays which is to showcase the with a further 14% allocated for its intake of apprentices this au- [email protected] latest advances in 'green' architec- leisure/hotel uses, 6% for local tumn after being swamped with ture. retail and 12% for residential use. thousands of applications for firm announced, as it marked the Len O'Hagan, Belfast Harbour's Work on site will begin once the training posts. 50th anniversary of its apprentice- chairman, said: "City Quays is an planning process· has been Around 24,000 people regis- ship scheme. investor-led project to provide completed and initial occupiers tered an interest in 221 positions ET apprentices start on salaries high-quality waterfront landscape have been secured. earlier this year compared with of between £12,000 and £15,000, for business, leisure, tourism and Belfast Harbour has recently 9,000 applications last year. with successful candidates spe- the arts. been discussed as a saleable BT said it decided to double cialising in either IT, telecoms, "The aim is to help regenerate publicly owned asset in the the number of places as a result of electrical systems or customer and reinvigorate the heart of his- wake of the comprehensive the response and because it want- service and studying for a BTec or toric Belfast, providing an spending review. ed to train young people to help foundation degree. attractive setting for potential Gordon Brown first made deliver fibre optic broadband over The new wave of apprentices overseas investors:' the suggestion over 10 years ago the next few years. will be focused on helping BT He said that-the development and the idea surfaced again The second wave of recruit- with its multi-million pound fibre would complement the Titanic two years ago in a Treasury ment will see BT's Openreach di- optic broadband roll-out which is Quarter's well-known buildings, report on Northern Ireland's vision recruit more than 200 one of the fastest in the world. including the Northern Ireland economy. further people by Christmas, the More than two million premis- Household expenditure plummets over job secur

HOUSEHOLD spending fell at its BY NICKY BURRIDGE of people said their household fi- tober.with 24% of people saying fastest rate for nine months dur- [email protected] nances had worsened during Oc- they thought their job was now ing October as consumers worried - tober, while 45% expected them to less safe than it was in September. about job security, research indi- the first time since the start of the continue to deteriorate in the Public sector workers reported cated today. year, as well as a decline in income coming months. the sharpest fall in job security The fall in spending came as levels, according to financial infor- Job security remained a major ahead of the Government's Com- people reported a rise in debt for mation group Markit. Around 27% worry for households during Oc- prehensive Spending Review. JONES ca or 11410.3 40.3 'ISEQ tax cut

2860.7 28.8 BY HEATHERMcGARRIGLE THE heads of Northern Ireland's [email protected] leading businesses have joined ·C~L1J)E the call for a reduction in the significant structural challenges province's corporation tax. and offers insufficient job oppor- In a letter published in today's tunities for our young people:' IL Belfast Telegraph, 16 of the coun- They said a reduced rate of bus i- Around 150 schoolchildren set up stalls at The Outlet in Banbridge as part of the Young Enterprise try's top business leaders say ness tax would attract "substantial Northern Ireland (YEN!) trade fair. The programme enables schoolchildren to manufadure and sell Northern Ireland would be "a additional foreign direct invest- products or services so they can learn about running a business first-hand. Enjoying the fair were (l-r) $85.2 0.4 much more competitive location ment" and encourage firms to Education Minister Caitriona Ruane with Conor Darcy from St Mark's School. Warrenpoint, and Carol for both international and local in- reinvest as they keep more capital. Fitzsimons, chief executive of YENI vestment" if corporation tax For this reason, the company C1JRPE~~CIESwas lowered to match the Repub- leaders believe lowering the rate lic's 12.5% rate. provides the ''best opportunity to Managing director of FG Wil- help transform the economy and 'son, Mark Sweeney, BT's chief create a significant increase in Northern Bank report eases 00 executive officer Graham Suther- jobs across the private sector". £1=$1.5732 €1 = £0.8402 land, Sir William Hastings, the They are the latest prominent down from 1.5784 up from 0.8379 chairman of Hastings Hotels, Northern Ireland figures to call for Adrian Toner, chief operator the tax adjustment. fear of double-dip recession At the end oflast month, a coali- OURIST tion of business figures sent an NORTHERN Bank has said that BY CLARE WEIR had improved, she said the Euro- open letter to Chancellor George global growth should pick up in [email protected] pean debt crisis had triggered I Osborne asking him to allow 2011,easing fears of a double-dip new risks .. rES recovery in growth. Private con- "The European debt crisis has, Australia 1.52 dollars The current rate of Northern Ireland to set its own recession. The bank's latest global scenar- sumption in the US was up, rising without doubt, taken a turn for Brazil 2.41 reals corporation tax in the corporation tax rate. Representatives from CBI, Insti- ios report shows an improvement close to 3% in the third quarter of the worst and we see worrying Canada 1.52 dollars Republic tute of Directors, Northern Ireland in economic data for the last quar- 2010 while GDP for the fourth signs of contagion to debt markets China 9.40 yuan quarter is now around 2.6%. in Spain and Italy." Czech Republic 27.64 korunas Chamber of Commerce and ter after signs over the summer officer of First Derivatives, Mark Northern Ireland Independent that global recovery was slipping. Northern Bank chief economist "So far, the effect on equity and Denmark 8.48 krone It said fears of a double-dip Angela McGowan said that earli- corporate credit markets has been Euro 1.14 euro Nodder, managing director of Retail Trade were among those WrightBus and Michael Ryan, who came together to urge recession could be lifted by news er fears of a double-dip have not very limited;' said Ms McGowan. Hong Kong 11.65 dollars vice-president and general manag- the government to introduce that global growth forecasts been realised. "The debt crisis last spring Hungary 298.15 forints "The US has performed much' brought about a 15%fall in equi- India 62.84 rupees er of Bombardier Aerospace are the measure. for 2011 and 2012 are now among those who put their names The letter cited a claim from the approximately 4.4% and 4.5% better than expected with private ty markets, whilst this latest Japan 126.49 yen to the letter in support of devolv- Northern Ireland Economic Re- respectively. consumption more upbeat, im- crisis has only had a 3% impact. In Mexico 17.52 pesos The report shows that the US proved business confidence and Europe, economic activity has New Zealand 1.96 dollars ing corporation tax powers form Group that reform would some positive momentum in continued to grow above trend Norway 9.05 krone to Stormont. create 90,000 jobs over 20 years. economy has performed better than expected in the last quarter business investment growth." with an average of 2.8% annu- Pakistan 127.46 rupees The business chiefs said:"The with economic data pointing to a But while the global outlook alised quarterly growth." Philippines 59.33 pesos Northern Ireland economy faces Letters: Page 30 South Africa 10.08 rand South Korea 1575.00 won Sri Lanka 165.08 rupees Sweden 10.43 krona Bleak outlook as companies report drop in new orders Switzerland 1.48 francs Taiwan 41.35 dollars ULSTER Bank's latest private sec- HEATHER MCGARRIGLE despite inflation pushing up their chief economist at Ulster Bank in five months. Furthermore, man- Turkey 2.24 new lira tor survey paints a grim picture of costs. said that although the manufac- ufacturing new orders, a leading USA 1.51 dollars [email protected] Northern Ireland's current busi- Businesses reported a swift de- turing sector had defied the reces- indicator of future manufacturing ness position. April 2009. The Ulster Bank's fig- cline in new orders, with 44% of sion in recent months, November's activity, posted its sharpest rate of According to the bank's month- ures for November show business firms surveyed reporting a drop in figures suggested it was no longer decline since July 2009;' ly Purchasing Manager's Index activity in general fell, unemploy- this type of business. Construction bucking the trend. The survey reported Northern All the latest news in (PMI), private sector activity has ment rose and companies and service industries were the He said: "Manufacturing output Ireland firms had been cutting Business Telezranh fl>11"n l>tth" inint_f",rrp.<:t Tlltp <:inr.p wprp continuinz to slash nrices worst affected. Richard Ramsey, fell in November for the first time prices for 26 consecutive months. BElfAST TElEGRAPH TUESDAY 26 OCTOBER 2010 Exporter scores a sa success at the ballot

A DERRY-BASED election BY HEATHER McGARRIGLE equipment manufacturer has [email protected] received a vote of confidence from the us with a lucrative our final assembly line at new order. Springtown," Pakflatt has secured an order Mr McGonagle is a chartered for around 350 of its Beniamin engineer who has been involved Franklin voting booths, bringing in the election industry since its total export sales to $1.3111. 1986. These will be supplied to 30 He does business with world- counties in the US state of wide electoral commissions and Kansas. The company has also with national and local election recently confirmed an order authorities, including those in worth $500,000, from Westch- the UK, Ireland, Europe, the US ester in New York state, in a and Canada. deal which it says has doubled, He visited America in the late Paldlatt's global sales in the past 1980s as part of the Derry- two years. Boston Ventures trade mission. Over the past 12 months, Pak- flatt has agreed supply deals to approximately 140 counties across 24 states in the United States. The total amount Of The deals equate to a total of export sales achieved 164 individual orders for the Franklin Booth. by Pakflatt company The latest batch of orders in Kansas mean its total sales outside the UKnow stand at 45%. He said: "While it didn't lead Managing director and to any immediate success, it founder Patrick McGonagle paid made me realise that the Amer- tribute to the "exceptional na- iean e ections industry had ture" of the company's 2O-5trong many similarities to our own," team of employees at their base Hollister Bundy is president in Springtown. of Inclusion Solutions, who are He said other factors for Pakflatt's principal distributor in the firm's export success includ- the US. He said Paldlatt's "inno- ed their growing national re- vative and revolutionary prod- seller network and a recently uct" was the secret to its export established national distribu- success. tion centre in Virginia, opened Mr Bundy said: "Election ad- a year ago. ministrators love the durability, Mr McGonagle said: "Our pol- -storage ease and reliability of icy of selective resourcing using the product. my own Global OS3 model - "Responses from voters have own specification, outsourcing likewise been positive and the offshore - provides us with a disability community has strong supply chain and spread embraced the 'universal design' of risk, as we consider any coun- of the product - voters with try in the world a potential and without disabilities now source of supply for the parts vote at the same booth for the and components that we need in first time." Pakflatt's 'Benjamin Franklin' voting booth has been described as 'innovative and revollllli~ Ryobi experiences fall in output as recession continues to bite

UNT.IL 2008, Ryobi had en- cilities. It also acknowledges joyed a long period of stable the continued _ - ~ leve~ of output from .its'p~ant ~ • ga PitcH for Ijigpriz Fiveentrepreneurs take to stage for place in national fe

N exactly one week's time, five HEATHER McGARRIGLE Dan Martin, founder of The iforthern- Ireland entrepreneurs bustel@belfasttelegraph,CQ,uk Pitch and editor of BusinessZone. vill be preparing to pitch for co.uk, said: ''We've selected our ,50,000 of business support. Next Wednesday the fiye busi- j winners in England, Wales and The finalists of small business ness owners will pitch to judges Scotland; so now it's time for ritching contest The Pitch 2011 Carl Hopkins, one of Channel4's Northern Irish entrepreneurs to tre Anthony Kieran of online file Secret Millionaires, successful UK shine. . nanagement firm Media Light- entrepreneur Karen Darby and Those attending the free event )ox:.~ James Moran of web Will McKee, one of Ireland's most at the Grand Opera House will lppr~~ti~n Mobile Report; Bar- experienced board directors. be able to watch the pitches live on rara Hughes from Boozeberries; The winner will go through to stage and hear from speakers, in- \1aria· McGee from Marble Hill the London final at Pacha night- eluding successful entrepreneur skincare and Jason Paul of water club on November 18. . Lara Morgan, who sold her hotel Ievice maker Floe. The winner will receive £50,000 toiletries business, Pacific Direct, Taking place at Belfast's Grand of business support and year's for £20m. )pera House on September 21, it free mentoring from Karen Darby; Attendees can also take part in .s the last regional heat of this . • an interactive question and an- zear's contest. swer session with a panel, which It is also the first time The Pitch will include David Malone, divi- has come to Northern Ireland. £SO.OOOd sional telesales manager at First held three years ago, 2011is The amount of business Yell, Ron Immink, eo-founder of the first year The Pitch is holding support the overall Small Business Can and Adam regional heats in each ofthe four . winner will receive Ewart, founder of Karacha and UK countries./- sendmybag.com. Karen Darby will provide mentoring to winners of the com

Ulst I r shopfitter has designs on retaining prestigious interiors awa

[email protected],uk

A SHOPFITIING firm, Carrickfergus, is hopi come the first company a prestigious UK interio McCue Fit-Out recei Shopfitting Excellence the 2010 Retail Week Awards for its work on t Outfitters store in Live This year, the compan ing its work on Urban 0 Cardiff store will see it gong home for a second Other locations on the include M&M's World in as well as Nike's house 0 in South Africa and Lo ton's new store "inLond Les McCracken, man rector of McCue Fit-O "The Retail Week I Awards represent the standards of our indus are proud to have gain on the shortlist of the specialists. "Recognition for you always satisfying, but . much more when it eo industry peers who set est of standards and an aspect of your work:' The firm has also c fit-outs for White Stuff, and Wagamama; The Retail Interiors 2011will be held on Sep McCue Fit·OuQvon the award for shopfitting excellence la~tyear and will want to repeat this for the;r work on the Urban Outfitters in Cardiff at the Hilton, Park Lane, Shoppingmall is smash hit with Boris as it opens to pu

PEOPLE queued up to get their BY.LEANNE RINNE The mayor had a lucky escape Centre, which is on sale for a re- for Westfield Stratfor first glimpse inside Europe's when a glass ceiling tile dropped ported £170m.· 2005, we knew it wo largest urban shopping centre screen cinema, three hotels, a 30ft and smashed in front of him. • It's understood Westfield and the borough. and gateway to the new Olympic bowling alley and the UK's largest Mr Johnson brushed off the in- eo-owner Hermes have narrowed "Westfield represe ~ark as ~!offi:i}!:!lYop.~~~~ its casino. cident,saying: "They have worked offers down to three bids. than just bricks, mo ~~ •••..••.•.• -+. ..::I~~Y'"r"O ")...,""'•••••••••••••• """-a...~ha+O-~~'I'!' ~~r"'jt'~~~,~]"~d~p»=u...o.d.iho""'-'L...lll.cn",,--<:hn,n':c::::IInn ~ BELFAST TELEGRAPH NEWS 3 An engaging

performance ; from sultry Ms O'Sullivan

A BOX of tricks, the Wizard Of Oz and a real-life marriage proposal. All par for the course REVIEW when you're at a Camille O'Sulli- CAMILLE O'SULLlVAN van show. Cathedral Quarter Arts With its black draped interior Festival Marquee and twinkling electronic stars, the Festival Marquee was the ideal venue for Camille O'Sulli- **fIt** van's smoky, sultry take on clas- girl-innocent and she sang and sic songs by artists including tapped on a xylophone, while Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, fixing the audience all the time Johnny Cash and Nick Cave. with a coquettish dark stare. Described by the Irish Times Her version of Hurt was also as "one of the most gifted inter- spectacular, beginning with a preters of narrative songs yet to near whisper and building to a appear'; it's said that O'Sullivan spine-tingling" crescendo which dislikes descriptions of herself truly showcased her voice. as a 'burlesque' performer. Camille said she had happy However, as an original cast memories of acting in a play a member of La Clique, Camille is few years ago at a previous also a successful actress - and Cathedral Quarter Arts" Festival. her show certainly contains She brought the show to a re- J more than a nod to the German sounding climax with Nick cabaret she has previously de- Cave's The Ship Song, walking scribed as an inspiration. through the crowd as she ended She "invoked more than a hint the song and going straight over of Dita von Teese with her al- to a table to sign autographs for abaster skin and dark pin curls, fans. as she 'miaowed' at the crowd However, one of the show's and performed a cheeky highlights had to be the audi- striptease throughout the ence member who had arranged course of the show. for Camille to read some words She began in a black dress, out for his partner in prepara- whipping it off halfway through tion for a proposal. To the de- to reveal a strapless red number light of O'Sullivan and the to whoops of delight, and finish- audience, the lady said yes. ing up in a black basque and Her show was certainly more black sparkly leggings. an enchanting piece oftheatre The cabaret was beautifully than a gig, delivered with the and chaotically brought to the . aplomb of a seasoned stand-up fore with her interpretation of "comedian during and between God's Away On Business that songs. saw Camille cackling through- But behind the theatre and out the musical build-up as she the cabaret is a talented singer plucked various items from a who has the rare ability to make box of tricks, including a bowler other people's songs truly her hat, handbells and a glitter ball. own. O'Sullivan's Dresden Dolls- HEATHER McGARRIGLE esque, nightmarish interpretation of All The World Is Green was one the musical highlights INSIDE 0 of the show. Bathed in emerald light with film excerpts from Our daily roundup from The Wizard Of Oz played over the Cathedral Arts the music, Camille was school- Festival News, Page 12 ~ "c • - T

MIDST the gloom Michael Noble, of ICT trade of recession, one in- In response to a skills shortage the leT association Momentum NI, dustry in Northern sector is working hard at shedding its insists the apparent boom in Ireland has been Northern Ireland's information lauded as having 'geeky' image. Heather McGarrigle technology sector is not a Athe potential to generate 'bubble' that will burst. £800m for our economy over reports on how smartphone apps and He told Business Month: "This the next decade. industry has been growing since With most aspects of life now social network is helping the campaign the 1980s and employment in reliant on some form of tech- the sector has grown by more nology, it's perhaps not surpris- Nearly a fifth (18%) of compa- intensive training programme than 10% every year for the past ing that our ICT sector is nies forsaw difficulty in recruit- in October and are due to begin three decades. It's Northern Ire- growing rapidly. ing IT professionals in 2011. work placements this month. land's secret success story;' The sector is broad, encom- This has prompted the Execu- Employers supporting the He describes a technology- passing a wide range of servic- tive and the private sector to scheme include multinational based job as "recession proof" es, products and markets, and join forces and take action. firms, such as Openwave, De- as smartphones, tablets, com- houses an equally varied mix of In July of this year, a group of loitte, Allstate, NYSE and Liber- puters and digital communica- companies. ICT employers, supported by ty IT, as well as leading local tion become an increasingly However, from incorporated DEL, the Department of Enter- employers including Almac, important part of daily life. giants to the smallest opera- prise Trade and Investment First Derivatives and Replify. Mr Noble said a change in tions, organisations across (DETI) and Invest NI created A DEL spokesperson said: attitudes towards careers in ICT Northern Ireland are finding the Software Testing Academy. "We anticipate that most, if not was needed.The industry suffers their success being choked off The initiative was designed to all, of the trainees will secure from a poor reputation; parents by a lack of skilled staff. address a shortfall in software permanent employment in soft- tend to push their kids towards The Future Skills Action Plan testers, previously a less popu- ware testing. If this proves to be more 'traditional' occupations.In for ICT was drawn up and pub- lar career path within the field. the case, and there is a contin- schools, pupils are taught user lished in July 2008 to address Around 700 applications were ued demand for software skills, but not computer skills, the sector's skills deficit, a prob- received for the 20 places avail- testers in NI, then we will such as programming;' lem first identified in 2005. able at the new academy. Suc- look to recruit a further cohort DEL says ICT plays a "central It was produced by the De- cessful applicants began the of trainees in March 2012." role" in its revised curriculum. partment of Employment and Learning (DEL), Invest NI, trade association Momentum Northern Ireland leT companies currently headhunting NI and e-skills UK. The lack of young people en- KAINOS 30. The firm has grown rapidly PROJECT ZEBRA rolling in ICT higher education Contracts won this year have in the past 12 months follow- The Belfast-based app and courses was identified as a seen the Belfast based busi- ing new business wins across game developer has enjoyed major contributing factor. ness systems specialist launch the UK and Ireland.The rapid growth after successfully The report forecast the indus- several recruitment drives. company is also developing creating an app for Paramount try was set to grow at 2.4% per There are currently around new products in the education Pictures based on the Trans- year between 2006 and 2021 - 82 vacancies and the company sector. Positions include formers movies. more than three times the rate took on more than 100 people social media consultants, QT They are currently recruiting of overall employment growth last year. It describes its programmers, lead and junior for game developers across a in the province. Belfast base as a "centre of programmers, copywriters, range of platforms. The latest Northern Ireland IT excellence" and runs games developer, graphic Founder and chief executive ICT labour market snapshot, schemes to engage with local designers, an illustrator, Barry Scott says he has published bye-skills in January students, but says it may be multi media videographer and been forced to recruit 2011, showed an 85% increase forced to '100k elsewhere" even a key stage two teacher. specialised ICT professionals in new recruits over the last six to expand if NI's skills short- from other parts of the months of 2010, compared to age continues. UK to fulfil the firm's staffing the same period in 2009. "'\ needs. More than a quarter of com- OMNISOFT SERVICES However, he believes skills panies (28%) in the industry The Banger-based social shortages are common when had recruited over the period, media and web experts are emerging technologies first with 23% expecting to recruit seeking to double their staff of come to market. in the following six months.

m BUSINESS MONTH 9 January 2012 ''At this time there are no plans to make computer programming mandatory. Howev- er, should schools feel it meets the needs of their pupils, there is sufficientflexibility in the curriculum to allow them to teach it," a spokesperson said. Andrew Ross, chief executive of Belfast-based Northgate Managed Services, agrees the industry has suffered from "an image problem': "Parents don't understand it's a white-collar profession. It's still seen as a bit 'geeky'." Northgate offers apprentice- ships at entry level as well as graduate schemes and says it also works hard to retain staff. Despite recruiting around 200 staff over the past two years, Mr Ross says demand for skilled employees is still out- stripping supply. ' However, there is evidence the sector is beginning to shed its nerdy image. Emerging technologies such as smartphone apps, the growing importance of social networking and the film industry's continuing love affair with corn- puter animation and 3D effects are just some examples of 'fashionable' areas ofICT work ' beginning to attract attention. ' The Future Skills Action Plan Progress Report for zon reports success in its press cam- paigns, education outreach events and the Bring IT On programme, aimed at attracting teenagers to IT careers. In the report, e-skills chairman David Mawhinney says the sector now has the "potential to generate an additional £0.8bl;l of Gross Value Added within the Northern Irish economy during the next decade': Increasing the number of skilled ICT professionals is key he says, to "helping NI become a recognised hub for IeI excellence throughout the world".

9 January 2012 BUSINESS MONT:{ m "" NEWS ANALYSIS Why a Lidlgoes a long way Heather McGarrigle hears how one of Europe's largest supermarkets is reinventing itself by highlighting its growing range of NI suppliers and its work in the community

IDL first planted its Frank, points to the success of red, yellow and blue Lidl's long-established brand flag in Northern image across Europe, built on Ireland soil in 1999 low cost and choice. and before long, its He believes there could be Lcatchy jingle, "Brand quality is truth in the old adage: 'If it cheaper'; featured regularly in ain't broke, don't fix it'. our TV ad breaks. Mr Cranney said the Lidl The no-frills supermarket brand reflected a degree of began life in Germany in the "Germanness'' 1930s as a grocery wholesaler He said: "There are virtues in and has grown to be one of that - it stands for precision, Europe's largest retailers, with detail, efficiency. The business stores across 27 countries. model is cash rich, with a low Northern Ireland shoppers cost base. seemed bemused at first by the "There's a risk of diluting and unfamiliar European brands sanitising the brand. I'm and sparsely decorated, wide- cynical about the longevity of aisled stores, but they soon got this - I don't see a massive on board with the knock-down strategic shift." prices and weekly specials. However, Hugh Adams, With affordable groceries, creative director of Belfast cheap booze and grab-it-while- branding agency Asitis you-can bargains, Lidl has held Creative, describes Lidl NI's its own in the Northern Ireland rebrand as "a well conceived market ever since. campaign". There are now 35 Lidl stores He said: "It promotes Lidl in Northern Ireland and from its 'not quite a cash 'n' between its outlets and carry' status, to a more regional distribution centre in personal and caring, even Crumlin, the company now Lidl has worked hard to develop a range of suppliers in Northern Ireland ethical level - not bad employs around 600 people in for a supermarket. this country. growing range of suppliers in phenomenon, with a Facebook "It doesn't do what it says on However, 12 years after its Northern Ireland. "Throughout page and Twitter account. the perceived Lidl tin, but it arrival,Lidl NI is beginning to our 12 years of trading in The Lidl Northern Ireland does what good branding look a bit different. The Northern Ireland we have website has also been revamped should do; promotes the bargains and foreign foods are developed close working part- and features a 'social responsi- ethos and integrity ofthe still there, but the ads now nerships with local suppliers, bility' section, detailing its links company, its products and its feature local celebs, with pride particularly with key regional with the Ulster Cancer service." and service at the heart of the producers such as Irwins Foundation (UCF). Since 2008, Lidl wants to be known as a operation. Bakery, Glens of Antrim and it has supported the charity in socially responsible company ''Northern Ireland. Proud to Strathroy Dairies. what it describes as "a winning stocking high-quality, local serve you" is the new message. "Our range is, therefore, also partnership that achieves a produce, but it also wants to Country green has joined the centred on bringing the best of common goal". retain the loyalty of thrifty red, blue and yellow on promo- Northern Ireland to our The company points to shoppers and bargain tional materials, along with a customer." research into the cancer-pre- hunters. It's a pan-European Giants Causeway-inspired The 'proud to serve you' venting qualities of a balanced chain, but is marketing its hexagon/heart logo to denote initiative is based, Lidl says, on diet and recommends its "ever- Northern Ireland presence the locally sourced meat, dairy its company manifesto. expanding" range of fruit and as a local supermarket for and vegetables stocked in its The principal points ofthis veg as a good way to 'five a day'. local people. supermarkets. manifesto are described as Lidl has raised more than Time will tell if Lidl NI will be A period of market research, 'Sourced Locally','Freshness £75,000 for the charity since able to have its cake and eat it, carried out over the past two Guaranteed','Quality Own the two joined forces. In May of but it certainly seems confident years for Lidl by marketing Brands', 'Responsibility' and this year, Lidl awarded about its future. agency AV Browne, discovered 'Seriously Cheaper'. thousands of pounds worth of Regarding growth prospects, that consumers were largely Ms Clarke says: "The campaign sports equipment vouchers to Aoife Clarke said:"Lidl is very unaware that its Northern focuses on our relationship with Northern Ireland primary much committed to further Ireland stores carried local suppliers, our customers and the schools as part of the Fit Factor investment in new stores in produce. community, and is delivered competition to raise awareness Northern Ireland and in our Aoife Clarke of Lidl says the with the help of people from of healthy eating and exercise, existing network of stores, as company prides itself "on being those respective groups:' in partnership with UCF. demonstrated with the intro- able to bring the best from A new TV advertising cam- Brand experts are divided on duction of in-store bakeries and Europe to Northern Ireland': paign features the aforemen- Lidl's efforts to rebrand. Damian the recent modernisation of She added: ''We are especially tioned groups and the company Cranney, eo-director of Belfast- stores in Derry, Downpatrick proud, however, of our ever- has embraced the social media based branding and design firm and Castlereagh Road, Belfast:'

BUSINESS MONTH 6 Februar 2012 Specialist knowledge means running start for Jenkins team

By Heather McGarrigle ~ USBAND-and-wife . team Michael and Sharon Jenkins . , . have always been ToLigh.·le:ssons passionate about Hrunning, but it wasn't until to be learned ' March 2005 'that they left their retail management using students jobs.and turned their love of sport into a lucrative business By JiII Culbertson , - Up and Running NI, the Nav.ajoTalk.corn running specialist shop based on the corner of Belfast's USINGsocial media is ·often Wellington Place. considered a: simple task, Having been frustrated by the because it is the newbie on sports retail experience in the marketing block, and Northern Ireland, the germ of because everyone is on an idea took seed in Michael's Facebook ~ so it must be mind in 2002. simple; right? ' "Runners don't just want the Since I began using social cheapest product available; media for marketing my they need value for money and clients; brands three years knowledgeable staff;' he says, ago, inore companies have' Expertise and empathy are Born out of frustration, Michael Jenkins' business is 0 runaway success felt under pressure to have a what Michael believes set the social media presence - but shop apart from other retailers. gait analysis and advice on 2007 was the first step in the it's a:heavy pullon resource, "Our business is hard to repli- nutrition. Events partnerships goal of becoming an all-island As a result, many SMEs cate, Our staff range in age have also formed a crucial part operation. who want to.undertake from 18to 73,but they are all of the Up and Running market- The euro-friendly store sees a social media often consider running enthusiasts, from ing strategy, bringing valuable quarter of its business coming hiring a student on work beginners to top triathletes, exposure, as well as comple- from the Republic, allowing Up placement. as a solution. "When a customer comes in menting the core business, and Running to dip a toe into Would you consider hiring to the shop because they're The company has been an the all-Ireland market while a student to market your training for a specific event, official partner of the Belfast retaining the Nl-based reputa- business? I didn't thirik so. chances are, one of us will be City Marathon since the tion they are proud of. Social media is ·amedium training for the same event, so shop opened in 2005 and four With TVprojects, adventure which facilitates and expects we truly can advise." years ago, it teamed up with sports events and a relaunch on two-way communication He cites ambition and inno- the Belfast Telegraph to the cards for this year for Up between customers 'and vation as the other key factors bring the bi-annual Belfast and Running, there is a lot of companies=- how you deal in Up and Running continuing Telegraph Runner 5k and 10k truth in Michael's unintentional with, interact and service ' to thrive. The company offers fundraising events to Stormont, pun when he says: "Wejust your customers is recorded training programmes, running Opening their Newry store in don't want to stand still:' on the webfor others to see. While great customer . service online can attract AMONG the students to new customers, immature complete the Belfast or incapable responses can Enterprise Academy do the opposite. ' Programme were Raisin , A huge,multi-national Murphy from St Mory's brand employed a student to Teaching College and Harry do just this; and in an effort Davis from Queen's University to "grow" followers oh Belfast. The students were Twitter, the,student began presented with certificates at making reference to an a cerembny. The programme atrocity that was occurring gave students the experience, at that time in order to get contacts and motivation to the brand in front of more get involved with the many people: Needless to sa)" a full business support programmes apology had to be issued, . available to them as well as .Administratio~ of a Face- . the support to start their own book business page is far businesses. The academy was more complexthan just 'being developed by Belfast City on Facebook' So'beware of Council in partnership with having a student look after Queen's University, the your customer interaction .. University of Ulster and Belfast Metropolitan College BUSINESS MONTH 6 June 2011 Did you ever consider earning a crust by little bit different? Over the next four weeks, H will talk to four very different people with one thing in common, each make a living doing what they love - and none of it in 0 any kind of nine to five routine. Today we delve into the life of Belfast burlesque performerSpank

THANKS to stars like Dita von Teese, burlesque dancing and Vaudeville shows have now become more accessible to a mainstream audience. Spank (25) has been combin- ing her circus skills with burlesque performance for the past sixyears and here she describes how it all began with a twirl!

STARTING OUT "Ever since I was very small I've been involved in performing in some way. "I did dance and gymnastics classes and I was about six years old when I joined the Coleraine Twirl Stars majorette troupe. "I learned skills like baton twirling, but more important- ly 1became comfortable performing in front of an audience. "At college 1 studied for a GNVQ in advanced performing arts and also a Btec in performing arts. "One of the modules was , community arts, which was taught by Mike Maloney and Donal McKendry, eo-founders of the Belfast Circus School. "They saw me twirling a devil stick like a baton and thought 1would be good at performing L.:..:.._--'-=-_-'---'---''-- .:c..2'--= with a staff. "So on their advice I began with fans and striptease, for that some months you'll be attending adult circus classes at example - but 1also perform busy and some months the Belfast Circus School. with a bed of nails and fire, so might have no gigs. "I quickly picked up the ba- 1love to merge the two togeth- "I've had to learn to m sics in everything, but my real er. my money so that the mo love turned out to be fire per- "For a typical gig I get a make when I'm busy keep- fonnance, particularly staff and phone call for the booking and going in the months poi. decide whether I'm available, there's less work." "This is where you have two "I find out what kind of act large chains, at the end of which they need, but always try to you have wick, offer more than one idea. ADVICE FOR OTHERS "You dip the wick into paraf- "Then I practice my act and . "Students should che . fin, light it and then spin to make sure my music's perfect the Queen's Juggling Cl .make pretty circles. and on cue. the Morton Community "I did a few acrobalance per- "I always take a spare cos- in Belfast on Thesday eve fonnances with a girl whose tume and props because I've "And anyone over 18 '- stage name is Smack. got to be flexible. come at adult circus cl "She's probably one of the "They may have booked me Wednesday evenings at ,premier burlesque performers for an outdoor 'fire perform- Circus School. in Ireland. ance and then it pours with ''You can learn the b "I saw one of her shows, rain. all types of circus skills ar loved what she did and told "If! bring my UV poi (which "Or you could simply _ her I was interested. glow under UV light) then I burlesque night and chat "She showed me the tricks of can take the show indoors." performers. the trade - costumes, props, "It's enjoyable to recef movement and the best way to EARN-ING POTENTIAL back from your audien take off a glove, for example. performers will all have "Last Halloween I lay on a "If you operate through an ent stories and advice bed of nails while Smack did a agency such as Belfast Circus how they got into the' fan' dance standing on top of me School or Streetwise Communi- "The Black Box in - quite a spectacle!" ty Circus, there's a flat fee each always hosting great b performer receives. and circus shows." SPEOACLE: ''You can earn a lot of money •Contact Sp Burlesque WORKING LIFE in this industry - the better www.myspace.comj . performer "My act is a mixture of circus your reputation, the more pank. Spank and burlesque. money you'll earn. NEXT WEEK: We "I do' classical burlesque - ''You have to accept the fact Tai Chi teacher, Jane '.

Do spa works out fine LISBURN pet lover Catherine Porter HEATHER McGARRIGLE runs the Aquatherapy Centre, which In the latest in our series on alternative careers, uses a specially designed pool and spa finds out what it takes to work'as'a dog aquatherapist to help dogs with injuries and conditions like arthritis to build up muscle strength. provide a current andswimming needs to be checked at least three or work experience. I've had plenty of This water-based therapy is also against this resistance helps to further times a day. people contact me about work experi- popular for owners, who simply want build the strength ofthe dog. "I usuallyhave about three or four ence and I have a girl at the minute to maintain the fitness and weight of "However, it took hours to get to customers in the morning, test the who helps me out on Wednesdays. their pet pooch. Garvagh and back and Molly hated the water again and have three customers "You need a lot of money to start up travelling, so Idecided to set up on my in the afternoon. this type of business. own business, something I always "Then the water gets tested again "I have a pool, which I designed STARTING OUT wanted to do. and I'll have maybe three more dogs in myself, a spa, different sized life jack- "I've loved animals since I was a "I'm quite head-strong and inde- the evening and perhaps check the ets for the dogs, a shower, a hoist and child and I've always wanted to work pendent!" water again. all the fixtures and fittings. with dogs. "Wednesday's a paperwork day. I'll "I spent all my savings just on the "My husband promised me one as a fill in pet insurance claim forms for equipment to get started!" wedding present when we got married, WORKING LIFE clients and send them off. so when we came back from honey- "I'm a member of the Canine Hy- "On Thursdays Itake my own dogs moon we went to the pound and got drotherapy Association, which regu- to dog training with Michael McCart- EARNING POTENTIAL our first dog, Molly. lates the industry. ney - it's good socialisation for them "If you're mainly motivated by ''A year later she injured herself. "That means people can come to and good networking for me." money, you could run a hydrotherapy "The vet suspected a ligament prob- me knowing that I have achieved cer- pool and swim maybe 14 dogs a day at lem and my sister, who breeds dogs in tain standards. ' £20 each. England, suggested we try hydrother- "I have all the qualifications you ADVICETO OTHERS "That would make the earning po- apy. can have in this industry - canine ''You need to love dogs! tential quite attractive. "The vet agreed it would be the best first aid which I refresh every two "But you also need to be physically "However, at the very least, 50pc 0 r thing for her so I travelled up to Gar- years, six days' shadowed training at _ strong, because lifting the animals is that is going to be swallowed by over vagh twice a week. three different hydrotherapy centres, back-breaking work. heads. "Hydrotherapy works so well be- pool water management, muscu-"There's a harnesses you can use "Personally, I'm not motivated hy cause the heat of the water relaxes loskeletal conditions, introduction to but the dogs don't really like it and you the money - I just want to se tlu: (iu!\', muscles and the buoyancy takes the hydrotherapy and hydrotherapy. have to put them first." get better:' dog's weight. ' "My day begins at Sam when I get "Join the Canine Hydrotherapy As- "The animal is then able to build up, walk my own three dogs and test sociation. It's there for backup and ad- • You can contact Cath rlm h muscle and extend limbs, without put- the pool water. vice and because you're regulated, pet phoning 028 92672193/07790 0:11H' ting any weight on an injury or a weak "It's crucial that the alkalinity and insurance companies will pay for dogs orbyemallon infogsaquatlu r p limb. The jets in a hydrotherapy pool chlorine levels are just right, so it to go to you. Do some shadow training tre.co.uk . . NEXTWEEK:Wepaint a picture of what it's like to be a tattooist and draw on thl 8xp"rl""n~sof Caroth Eardlry TAl Chi (Tai Ji Quan in Mandarin) is also been fascinated to learn about Qi, well as promoting strength, moral grit a martial art, often referred to as a or our 'life force; an integral aspect of and the ability to defend oneself. 'soft' or 'internal' discipline. this discipline. "Tai Chi, and the other internal It involves slow movements com- ''Ayear into my studies of Tai Chi, I martial arts concentrate on building bined with exercises, aimed at build- met a Chinese teacher, went to all of health from the inside out." ing and expressing strength and his classes and before long he was balance in the body. asking me to assist in teaching. EARNING POTENTIAL Jane Burke (30) takes us through "I continued to study with him for "I guess there isn't huge security to her journey, which began with a prom- eight years and then with his permis- my job. ising ballet career cut short by ill- sion began teaching my own classes." "I rely on student attendance and al- ness. though I do my best to deliver a high WORKING LIFE . quality of teaching, any number of STARnNG OUT "In a typical class, Ifirst assess the circumstances out of my control may "I started ballet when I was about needs and ability level of the group. _ cause my numbers to drop. three and became serious about pur- "Then I lead them in a warm-up, "I agree with whoever said, 'Find suing it as a career by the age of eight. stretches and standing practice, which something that you love and you will "I attended ballet school in Eng- is a form of meditation called Qi Gong. never have to work a day in your life'. land and went on to take part in an In- "We continue with.a type of foot That's how I feel. ternational Elite competition through work called walking practice and "On a good day, I can make much London's Royal Academy of Dance upper body/arm work called silk reel- more money in a couple of hours than when I was 16. ing. Icould working nine-to-five in a min- "That summer, I was hospitalised "In time, these techniques are com- imum wage job." with chicken pox and suffered de- bined to form steps. pression afterwards. ''And over a course of months, I'll ADVICE FOR OTHERS "I eventually got back on track with lead the class in putting these steps "For anyone thinking of becoming . dance, only to be hit by glandular into a sequence or 'form'. a Tai Chi teacher I would encourage fever. "Classes end in a warm down and them, but tell them to do it the right "I was desperate to find something sometimes I demonstrate the 'form; to way. with the discipline and grace of ballet, help understanding of what we are "There are teaching qualifications but with a focus on holistic health working towards. for Tai Chi within the Wushu Duan and was lucky enough to discover Tai ''A big part of my job is to educate Wei grading system and I have Chi. people in what Tai Chi is all about. achieved my Fourth Duan (the first "It helps promote flexibility, "The discipline of any martial art is teaching level) but not all teachers go strength and coordination .. But I've considered to be a healthy activity, as this way. "I would also advise that you fall in love with the subject itself and enjoy learning and practising the moves until you truly understand the princi pals of internal practice. ''Make sure your knowledge is sound by learning from a good teacher and wait for their approval - that they GIVE LOOD recognise you are at a sufficient level - before attempting to teach oth I yourself. ''Also, regular work isn't always given and be prepared to work in IIt Save Lives evenings." • Jane can be contacted throu jademaidenrglive.co.uk or hy pilOl Call 0500 534 666 or nibts.org - NOW! ~ 028 9076 02a:l. WITH high profile celebrities like David Beckham and Angelina Jolie In the final part of our series on alterna- showing off heavily-tattooed bodies, it's becoming rriore acceptable and tive careers, HEATHER McGARRIGLE less of a rebellion against mainstream culture. finds out from tattoo artist Gareth Gareth (26) tells us where his love of body art came from and how he Eardley what his job is really like turned it into a full time career.

volves scrubbing the floors, -cleaning which is used to transfer the ink STARTING OUT the equipment, taking appointments into the skin). "I developed a love of tattoos at a and drawing up stencils for the tat- "Once the client is comfortable I young age. too artists. stretch the skin and begin - stretch- "I would see my uncles with their "When it came to the actual tattoo- ing the skin is vital to achieving a arms covered in this artwork and 1- ing, it was a case of watch and learn. clean tattoo. remember thinking it was beautiful "The first tattoo I ever did was on "One client asked me for a tribal to look at - I was fascinated by myself, a silhouette of a woman's design to cover half of their.torso, these pictures that wouldn't rub off. face on my calf:' front and back, and gave me free "I would draw tattoos with biro on rein to do as I pleased - alot offun. anyone who'd let me! "Another asked me to freehand "I've always been good at art and WORKING LIFE (pick up the needle and go, no trans- went on to study fine art at college. "Most clients come to you with fer or drawings) a set of black and "However, it soon became appar- an idea already. grey angel wings onto his back. ' ent that the teachers had a pre-deter- ''Youhelp them settle on a final de- "It was hard work but hugely en- mined idea of what 'art' was and the sign and discuss with them where it joyable and a piece of art I'm really course stifled, rather than encour- should go on the body. proud of." aged, creativity. "This normally involves a number "Se I left, took all the fine art skills of sessions and I'll draw up a few ver- a _rnamic as- I'd acquired and poured them into sions for them to look at and make EARNING POTENTIAL ",_lIIicati· ons on all practising as a tattoo artist. any changes or add ideas. "The price of a tattoo depends on to progress so "This meant drawing for hours "The next stage is placing the de- a lot of factors - size, amount of •,,.... •• lLQ; down long on end and trying to learn as much sign on the body, normally using colour and detail, the number of ses- _.wonn'while. as possible. carbon paper to make a transfer sions taken to choose a final design "I started out by getting tattooed which can be placed directly onto the and, of course, the skill and reputa- ,.._rating moments myself, became friendly with the skin. tion of the tattoo artist. •• _m. It will take a artist and asked him for an appren- "Other designs will need to be ''You can make a very good liv- messenger to ticeship. drawn on freehand, using a surgical ing, but as with most self-employed ~:'liIZDl to slip into "I was knocked back several times pen to ensure it 'flows' properly on work, you have busy months and sttuggJing be- returning with piles of the wearer's body. slow ones:' 10look through and "Once the design is on the skin,I tIIIe DIeon. choose the needles, tu grips MUSlC is Pally's life and I was delighted she was taking a step towards using Talent show X Factor returned to our screens last night with that voice of hers to seek her fortune, My judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh, Dannii Minogue and second thought was "Urn, so, why GlaS- gow?' Cheryl (Die. When Sunday Life's HEATHER McGARRIGl£ Sadly, the jull);t:, have ilecided that Belfast -'., just hasn'tyielded enough talent in the past to discovered her little sister Polly was going to Glasgow to be worth a visit tor the 2008 show That was it, Now it was personal. No longer just a shot at audition, she decided to accompany her and today reveals stardom, now we were representing wee Nom what REALLY goes on behind the scenes of the hit show Iron! 1 made t11" trip to support my talented sib- ,which catapulted Leona Lewis and Shayne Ward to stardom ling, but I'll admit thejoumalist in me could- n't wait to get over there and tu he part in the Glasgow's Hampden Park football stadium ing. Ht~Y,r figured this \vns her gig and if a . TV circus I imagined the X Factor audition where the auditions were 1aking place, spooky Zen "like hypno-trance is what she shows to be, And I was not dlsappointed, In spite of playing host to around lO,()OO needed to prepare, then 1shall leave her to it. It was 7am on a gloriously sunny morning hopefuls, Hampden at 9.;30ani was eerily qrli~t. I amused myself by looking around to spot when we arrived at the audition, lVIysister and Polly hersel] hadn't spoken a word for about. the 'entertainment value', I exchanged nervous smiles as we paid thetaxi an hum and a half aud refused to eat, Mink 01' Firs; to catch my eye was a very large woman, driver and exited the cab to make our wav to- even go to the 100 fo1' fear ofbreaking concen- with very large, very Il!1S1111110l'led bosoms, ward, several thousand other people, jOiill ng tration, I held back from placing a mirror poured i111'O a decidedly not-large-enough black ~ huge, snaking 1\\1€\1€ ~Cl'O% the rar park of 11 rider her nose to ch<>ckshe was still breath- dress, Sh", was a cert fOl' the TV show and I found myself willing her to have a brilliant voice. Hut something told me she would eventually be told she was 'just not right for this competition', Next on my radar WO:1 n fella that lifted my spirits, Another person of ample proportions, laughing andjoking, surrounded by friends, his generous frame was covered in what is best described as a blight red bacofoil cape, Fahulou~, SlJlllellljll~ told we a TV appearance i~this guy's sole reason for being here; Cowell and eo wouldn't he crushing his dreams! M.' thoughts were suddenly interrupted by r. loud blast of familial' music _. the X l1;\ctor theme tune, Huge screens which were previously displaying text messages trom the crowd were all now ernblazoned with the show's logo, Everybody, mvscltand sis included, went nuts, One of the show's producers,u cheery Cock- ney. picked up a microphone, introducedhim- self and worked the crowd into et frmu;y. Every mention of TV cameras, Leon (last year's GIM" gcw-born winner), cl

got the X Factor!fWee Hamish overthere has over sixrows ofpeople, screaming like a lunatic No hassle. the X Factor!'.'etc etc. and hugged my sister with the tender touch of But when it came to Dermot recording links, a boa constrictor. it's time for 'silent cheering; which involvedhim The feeling of elation was indescribable, the speaking to camera and us all going bonkers in exhaustion of the day instantly replaced with the background - in mime. Which felt really giddy exhilaration. My sister's first ever singing silly. audition and a Sony producer liked what she Hassle free 2417 Business Bankinq" ~ After two hours of "that's great.guys.just one' heard! I said it then and still believe it now- more take!" in the baking heat, energy levels that in itself is a pretty neat achievement. were running 10\" and even the novelty of Der- Backthe next day to more queues and, would Business Direct gives you simple onlil1e ~ mot had worn off. you believe it, more cheering and clapping and banking that's fee-free (within transaction It was a huge reliefto get into the cool shade ~ general eejit-ness for the cameras once we limits') and not just for the introouctory period, of the stadium and take our seats. No rest for reached the waiting area inside the stadium the wannabes though as a further hour (or building. So it's ideal for businesses that don't often was it four?) of forced,seated excitement for the TIns bit looked more like the stuff you see on use cash and receive few cheques (fees cameras ensued, Exhausting, but a: fascinating TV - people waiting nervously in scattered may apply for paying in cash or cheques 'or ~ insight into how these programmes are 'put to- groups in a big room that looked like a cheap gether. ,' hotel lobby.Here we spottedformer X Factor fi- for withdrawing cash). Then our Cockney chappie explained how nalist PhillipMageefroni Lame sitting alone on ~ things were going to work. a windowsill. I couldn't help but admire him; Why not Gill! us today on the number below? Auditionees sang in frontof a producer from he made it through all this and got as far as the the record label, Sony BMG.lf successful, they finals before gettirig knocked out - and he was ~ See r were handed a golden ticket, their passport to willing to go through it all again?We heard into a second audition back at the stadium the fol- whispers later that he was told he wouldn't be lowingday. allowed to audition any fur- Open aBusiness Direct account today.' Here, they sang again, this ther because it wouldn't be time for a producer of the fait to ether contestants, given Click hsbc.co.uklbusinessdirect ~ show.Ared ticket at this stage thathe'd already made it to the Call 08007831181* annu put them through to a third finals once before. t audition later that same day After Polly's audition,I Text 'direct' to 64722 who with an executive producer knew the result the second I Or visit your local branch recei after which, if successful,they saw her face, bravely resigned were called back later for an to the knockback she had just interview with a researcher received. Then they were sent home In silence, we sat on the and two weeks later found steps outside, waited for a taxi out if they'd qualified to ap- and returned to the hotel. pear on the televised audi- After a long, hot shower and tions for the celeb judges. time to digest the surreal BUSINESS BANKiNG Remember that is when events ofthe past two days,she Simon's asking some hapless was philosophical rather than sod "who told you you could deflated. actually sing"? It would appear nerves fi- At4.30pm, nine-and-a-half nally got to her on day two hours after: our arrival, Polly and she couldn't recreate that auditioned. Line after line of 'zone' that had served her so her chosen song, Bette Mi- well on day one.

dlers The Rosedriftedback to 'Far from disheartened, Imponant Notes. Issued by HSBC Bank plc. If we receive any information that would . me, where I waited on the we've "experienced"the highs ~jghtto do so.Terms and conditions apply. Available 10 businesses with annual tum edge 'ofmy plastic seat. and survived the lows of X available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, apart from the scheduled-rneintenence What felt like a year later, Barn Sunday. The service may be unavailable for some or all of this maintenance p Factor ~ and we'll be back need to be longer or at different times. 'Paying in and withdrawing cash at branches she emerged looking next year. of prices are available in our Business ·Banking Price list. '*Textphone 18001 0800 drained ...clutching a golden Belfast has'no talent? We'll Thursday and 8arn to 6pm Friday (excluding public holidays).To help uscontinuallyi .i-: ••l_~.s.-' CO .••• __ ...••l-. •••.•..•• f •••.••• 1.•.•...••~ us:W t:ID'" "hand ,."IA we may monitor and/or record your comrnunlcaticns with us, "I1"extmessage call b ...