NEWS

Lilianna McKeown and Mollie McCrea (Cliftonville), Ava Upritchard and Alice Shaw (Crusaders), Maci Davidson and Megan McCabe (Linfield), and Aleah Neill and Sophia Currie (Glentoran) are pictured at Coronation Garden, Hazelbank Park, as the Budget Energy SuperCupNI confirms its 2026 Girls’ Sections line-up. Liverpool will make a landmark first appearance in the Girls’ Premier section of this summer’s Budget Energy SuperCupNI, in what is shaping up to be one of the tournament’

Marks & Spencer has reaffirmed its long-standing support for Northern Ireland’s farming community, announcing its return as Platinum Sponsor of the Balmoral Show — a move that reinforces the retailer’s deep ties with local producers and the agri-food sector. With more than 25 years of backing behind it, the partnership signals continued investment in an event widely regarded as the heartbeat of rural life in Northern Ireland, bringing together farmers, food producers and thou

Communities across Northern Ireland are being urged to shine a spotlight on the people who quietly make a difference every day, as the BBC officially opens nominations for its 2026 Make a Difference Awards. From volunteers and young heroes to neighbours who go above and beyond, the awards celebrate the everyday acts of kindness that often go unnoticed — but shape communities in powerful ways. A UK-wide celebration of community spirit The awards bring together BBC radio statio

Waterstone’s Ballymena is gearing up for a busy Easter period, combining a fresh Top 10 bestselling list with family-friendly events, new releases and a packed programme designed to bring readers of all ages through its doors. From global bestsellers to children’s favourites and a major upcoming author visit, the latest update highlights the store’s growing role as a cultural hub in the local community. This week’s Top 10 bestselling books A diverse mix of genres dominates th

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, pictured with Winnie Mellet, President of Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce, alongside representatives from Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce, CAN (Compass Advocacy Network), Lislagan Farm and FUSE FM at the launch of the 2026 Ballymoney Spring Fair. Ballymoney is preparing to burst into life this April as a colourful carnival, live music, and a packed programme of family-friendly events transform the town for a three-d

Families across the Ballymena and wider Northern Trust area are being offered something rare — direct access to expert advice, practical support and inclusive activities, all in one place and completely free. A Community Kids Wellbeing Day will take place at Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre in Ballymoney on Thursday 9 April from 2pm to 4pm , bringing together health professionals and community organisations for an afternoon designed around the needs of children and their families.

Families across Antrim and Glengormley are set for a treat this Easter as Bluey — the global children’s TV sensation — arrives on the big screen with a special cinema event designed to delight audiences of all ages. Landing in local cinemas on Friday 27 March, Bluey at the Cinema: Playdates with Friends Collection offers an hour-long experience packed with laughter, imagination and heart, just in time for the school holidays. A big-screen celebration of play, friendship and f

Global superstar Niall Horan is set to return to Belfast for a major arena show in 2026, with the chart-topping singer confirming the final date of his UK and European tour will take place at the SSE Arena on Sunday 15 November. The highly anticipated performance will mark the closing night of his newly announced Dinner Party tour, named after his upcoming album, and is expected to draw huge demand from fans across Northern Ireland and beyond. Tickets and key details Tickets

Gillian Matthews marking 10 years in business with Willow Beauty A Ballymena beauty salon born out of uncertainty is now celebrating a decade of success, resilience, and community support. Willow Beauty marks its 10th anniversary this month, reflecting on a journey that began with a leap of faith and has grown into one of the town’s most recognised and award-winning salons. From uncertainty to opportunity Founded by local business owner Gillian Matthews , the salon first open

Inset: South Antrim UUP MP Robin Swann A move to reduce the impact of fireworks on communities and animals has been welcomed as a “step in the right direction” by South Antrim MP Robin Swann , following a positive response from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. The council has confirmed it will now consider using silent or low-noise fireworks at future public events, after adopting a motion on the issue and reviewing its approach to event planning. Council commits to r

12-year-old Ballymena fighter Lacey Stewart A 12-year-old Ballymena fighter is rapidly becoming one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting young combat sports prospects after claiming gold at one of the region’s top competitions. Lacey Stewart, a Year 8 pupil at Dunclug College , delivered a standout performance at the Battle of the North tournament at Templemore Sports Complex, securing a unanimous decision victory in the 11–12 years novice category. Her latest triumph builds o

On Your Marks… launching the 2026 Larne AC 10 Mile Race is Kathryn Douglas of headline sponsor Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions alongside Larne AC Co-Chairs Paul Tilson and Diane Hawthorne, and Larne AC athlete Jordan Heron. The much-loved Larne 10 Mile Race is set to make a powerful return this spring, with a new sponsor and growing momentum cementing its place as one of Northern Ireland’s standout road running events. Organised by Larne Athletic Club, the race will take plac

A major fundraising walk along Northern Ireland’s iconic Causeway Coast is set to return this summer, as AWARE NI launches its flagship Giant Steps event for 2026 — at a time when demand for mental health support has never been greater. Taking place on Saturday, 6 June, the popular event — now in its fifth year — has already raised more than £200,000 to sustain frontline services, with organisers hoping for another strong turnout from communities across the region. A walk wi

Patrick Connor (standing) with Musical Director Andrew Robinson. A Ballymena performer is set to shine under the spotlight next month as one of the standout voices in a major musical theatre showcase on the North Coast. Patrick Connor, from Buckna , will take centre stage in Ballywillan Drama Group’s upcoming production, The Best of Broadway and the West End 3 , running at Portrush Town Hall from April 14–18. The award-winning group is already deep in rehearsals for the hi

From Freida McFadden’s gripping psychological thrillers to Easter-themed children’s favourites, Waterstone’s Ballymena has unveiled its latest Top 10 bestselling books alongside half-price highlights, storytime fun and upcoming events for readers of all ages. This week’s Top 10 bestselling books Psychological suspense dominates this week’s chart, with Freida McFadden claiming both the top two spots as readers continue to devour her addictive thrillers. 1. The Tenant – Freida

A free two-day programme designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs take their first steps into business is returning to Cushendall next week, offering a rare opportunity for local people to turn ideas into action. Grow the Glens , in partnership with Catalyst Belfast , will host its second Hello Possible event at the Cushendall Innovation Centre on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 March. The initiative is aimed at anyone who has ever considered starting their own business — or simply

Football fans across Ballymena are set for a rare treat this summer as two of Celtic’s most iconic figures, John Hartson and Jackie McNamara , come together for a special live event at the Tullyglass House Hotel. Taking place in June, An Evening with Celtic Legends promises a night of stories, laughter and behind-the-scenes insight from two players who helped define a successful era for the Glasgow club. A night of stories, silverware and survival John Hartson, who joined Cel

Steam engines, vintage tractors, classic lorries and historic vehicles will gather at Raceview Mill this St Patrick’s Day as enthusiasts recreate a working display of “yesterday’s machines” in one of County Antrim’s most historic settings. Organised by the Traction Engine Club of Ulster, the special vintage showcase will take place on Tuesday 17 March 2026 from 11.00am until around 3.00pm , bringing together collectors and the public for a celebration of engineering heritage

From gripping crime novels to children’s favourites and bestselling thrillers, Waterstone’s Ballymena has revealed its latest Top 10 bestselling books alongside exciting new arrivals, children’s storytime and upcoming book club meetings. The weekly round-up from the Ballymena bookshop highlights the titles currently flying off the shelves, as well as the newest releases readers should keep an eye out for. This Week’s Top 10 Bestselling Books Leading the chart this week is And

A powerful night of remembrance, music and community spirit in Ballymena has raised more than £20,000 for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, with a special fundraising event held in memory of two young women whose lives were tragically cut short. The Bingo Music Bonanza, hosted at the Tullyglass Hotel, brought together hundreds of supporters for an emotional evening dedicated to Naomi Lynn and Lydia Ross , who both died in separate car accidents. Organised by Ritchie Entertainme