Work has officially began on clearing the way for five exciting new play facilities in Gosford Forest Park.

The diggers and dumpers officially rolled in this week to begin paving the way for the unique facilities which will be part of a five-star tourist facility in Markethill.

The five play areas, dotted across the ranging forest area will all be linked by an adventure play trail – a trail It billed as being ‘Ireland’s greatest forest adventure play trail’.

The iconic trail development – which will stretch to 1.7 kms – was given the thumbs up by Council in November.

Welcoming the start of the works local DUP representative Alderman Gareth Wilson stated: “It is great to see a start to this exciting project in Gosford and I understand the initial phase of works will see the five sites cleared and made ready ahead of the nesting season so as not to unduly disturb the wildlife in the locations.”

He added: “This will be a great addition to the forest experience and there are other improvements planned for the park to enhance the caravan and camping provision and improvements to the meeting room area also.

“I look forward to seeing the park continuing to progress.”

It is hoped that the trail will be officially launched when fully in place by September.

The iconic adventure trail alone will cost £850,000, with £500,000 of this being awarded under the Rural Development Programme Tourism scheme and the remainder from ABC Council.

The council is also carrying forward other major proposals for the site after agreeing to spend over £5.1 million to transform Gosford into the jewel in the district’s tourism crown.

Already, 30kms of mixed use trails for walking and cycling were opened in January last year.

Other elements of the plans include landscaping, a new forest brand and signage and increased car parking.

One of the key components will be a new state-of-the-art visitor centre complete with cafe.

Each adventure area will be constructed of predominantly natural materials such as timber and rope.

The five play structures will be based on Nature Detectives, Woodpecker Play, Squirrel Rope Play, The Giant and finally The Castle Tower – with Zip Wires!

They will, according to the report, be “bigger in scale and size than any other play structure in the north or south of Ireland”.

Nature Detectives will be aimed at toddlers. It will comprise a combination of traditional play equipment – swings, slide and trampoline – alongside “more natural and sensory play”, in the form of a hollow tree log, a dry river bed which transforms water play, sand used for surfacing and a play space, grassy mounds and natural planting and living willow pods.

Woodpecker Play is in direct response to consultation feedback and follows the sighting of a woodpecker in Gosford. It will consist of interconnecting bird nests at varying levels, from ground level to in excess of four metres! They will be connected either via a wooden ‘V’ bridge or ‘timber tangle’, providing additional play value and challenge. There will be giant eggs to provide a ‘sense of space’ and to serve as seating.

The Squirrel Rope Play feature is aimed at age seven to 11 and takes the form of a challenging rope course. It will be up to a maximum of one-and-a-half metres tall and the space designed to mimic being in a squirrel’s world.

The Giant is one of the most iconic features – a 6.2 metre tall character with a giant tube slide inspired by Gulliver’s Travels, the author of which, Dean Jonathan Swift, has closed links to Gosford. The Giant will be a three-tiered structure with a tube slide at the top and various methods of climbing up and down from the first two levels – ladders, climbing holds on the back of his legs and a rope net!

The huge Castle Tower will emulate Gosford Castle itself with round and square towers and with a double zip wire. The internal structure will safely allow children to run up and down. There will be a ‘crumbled fort’ to the rear to allow younger children to enjoy the same play space.

There will be signposting to the trail from the main car park and visitor hub.

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Never judge a book by its cover! It’s a motto which could easily be applied to this beautiful home just a few minutes from Markethill.

On first glance, it appears this three-bedroom home could possibly be just out of your budget but alas, it’s on the market at offers over a very reasonable £180,000.

It’s a beautifully presented country residence set on a tranquil and elevated site with astounding views of the surrounding countryside, Mourne Mountains and undulating hills.

This property boasts three generous bedrooms, kitchen/diner and reception room.

The home is approached via a private driveway and offers an excellent degree of privacy with mature trees and shrubs.

The tarmac driveway provides ample car parking for numerous vehicles along with an adjacent garage and various out houses all with power and light. With so many great attributes, viewing is essential to truly appreciate everything on offer.

For more details on this property, visit Maison Real Estate here.

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Markethill-founded betting chain BoyleSports has secured a major expansion deal to its family of shops.

It has acquired 33 outlets across Northern Ireland for an undisclosed sum.

The deal also includes two further units in the Isle of Man.

BoyleSports now has 39 shops in Northern Ireland and a further 259 in the Republic.

Chief Executive Conor Gray criticised the doubling of betting duty in the Republic in 2018, which is the main reason for the shift in emphasis to Northern Ireland.

He confirmed the news to Racing Post: “BoyleSports are delighted to realise its long-held ambition to develop a meaningful retail presence across Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

“This acquisition complements our existing retail network in Northern Ireland and our retail network in the Republic of Ireland while also representing a significant step in our long-stated ambition to develop our retail footprint across the UK.”

The acquisition of the new Northern Ireland outlets is immediate, but BoyleSports will take over operational duties at the new outlets from next month.

The new units employ in the region of 220 staff.

BoyleSports was founded by Markethill man John Boyle (pictured) and is one of the biggest betting chains on the island.

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Campaigners demanding a safe crossing between Markethill and Gosford have accused the powers-that-be of trying to “fob us off”.

It comes after two letters received in relation to calls for safe passage between the town and forest park across the busy main road.

And neither has given a commitment to have anything done.

The council says it is not its responsibility

And the Department of Infrastructure says it will respond to a letter penned by a 12-year-old schoolboy – which kickstarted the campaign – before the end of the month.

Markethill High School pupil Rhys Ryans had written to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and his letter was forwarded to the Department.

Rhys had called on the powers-that-be to provide a safe crossing for the kids of Markethill to enjoy the new facilities at Gosford.

A petition has also been established which is available to sign online and in businesses around the town.

The intention is to present this to ABC Council chief executive Roger Wilson.

Rhys’ original letter has now warranted responses from both the council and Department.

The council has informed the Markethill High School pupil that the provision of a crossing is outside its control.

The letter, from the customer services manager, adds: “I have sent a copy of your letter to the manager of the Forest Park and he will pass it on to the Department of Infrastructure on your behalf as we would like to help you and your friends get safely to the Forest Park.

“We hope that you will visit us in the Forest Park as much as you can as we have the mountain bike trail and a new adventure play trail opening in September 2020.”

The Department’s Southern Division in Craigavon has also issued a brief response to acknowledge receipt of the letter.

It states: “We hope to issue a reply by 31 Jan 2020.”

Rhys’ mum Simone has said both are trying to pass the buck.

She told Armagh I : “They are just palming it off – it’s not the council that has a say but yet DFI will say it’s not up to them.

“Well then, how about the council and DFI both take responsibility for a passage and both pay half each? Problem solved!

“They should be doing something instead of playing games and messing about before a child or someone is killed on the road.

“Unfortunately for the council and DfI this isn’t good enough and these letters will be getting a response.

“Too many people have signed the petition for them not to listen.”

Simone urged both to take theh lead and added: “Stand up ABC council and DfI and take responsibility and stop with the childish games. After all you can pump lots of money into Gosford so give us a safe way across!”

People can lend their voices to the campaign by signing the petitions available throughout the town. You can also show your support by signing on line. Simply click on the petition link here and add your name.

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A judge has refused jurisdiction on a case involving a Markethill woman accused of stealing nearly £9,000 from Women’s Loyal Orange Lodge after deeming she did not have the sentencing power.

The 71-year-old is alleged to abused her power as a treasurer of the Anne Sinton Memorial WLOL 105 and stolen £8893.83.

Josephine Trimble, of Keady Street, appeared charged with fraud by abuse of position and theft at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

The offences are alleged to have occurred between January 1, of 1993 and January 2, of 2019.

The defendant is accused of abusing her power s a treasurer of the Anne Sinton Memorial WLOL 105 in Markethill and stealing £8893.83.

Defence barrister John McCann stated that his client was ready to be put on election and indicate her plea for the offence.

District Judge Josephine Watters interrupted stating: “That is a lot of money in a breach of trust case to be dealt with in this court.

“I think that I only have the power to order compensation of £5,000 but this is for £8893.83”.

Prosecution confirmed this was the maximum compensation the judge could order.

They said that the directing officer in the case believed that there was “sufficient sentencing power” in the Magistrates.

Judge Watters stated: “It’s not purely a theft it does also involve a breach of trust, I think that little by little the PPS have raised the bar of what in cases of theft, fraud and money laundering must be to be dealt with in the Crown.

“I am going to refuse jurisdiction, I will take it for eight weeks for a PE date to be identified”.

Trimble was released on continuing bail to appear on March 10.

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A Loughgall man who drove off after reversing into a car was in a hurry to collect his wife from a flight home from Scotland, court has heard.

The 54-year-old’s solicitor said the defendant “was on somewhat of a mission of mercy as he was delivering clothes for a charitable purpose which were to be transported to Romania”.

Joseph Hughes, of Drumilly Road, pleaded guilty to failing to stop and failing to report an accident at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Prosecution outlined that on September 30, at 4.15pm police received a report from the injured party that their car had been struck by a van on the Seaboughan Road, Markethill.

The following day, officers viewed CCTV which showed a Ford Transit van reverse into the side of the injured party’s car.

A male driver was seen to get out of the van and pull at the wheel arch of the Ford Galaxy, before returning to his vehicle and leaving.

Police then contacted the last registered owner of the van, which was Joseph Hughes.

He attended a voluntary interview, where he admitted to being the driver and reversing into the injured party’s car.

Defence solicitor Oisin Toner stated: “Mr Hughes has been driving some 34 years without being involved in any collision. He also acts as a carer for his wife.

“On the day in question, he was on somewhat of a mission of mercy as he was delivering clothes for a charitable purpose which were to be transported to Romania.”

He continued: “After colliding with the car he knocked on doors but got no answer. He left but had every intention of returning as he was regularly in the area.

“The reason he was in a rush was that his wife was returning on a flight from Scotland. Before he had a chance to return he was contacted by police.”

Mr Toner stated: “He was very candid with police. This is a man who has never been before a court before.”

Hughes was handed five penalty points and was ordered to pay a fine of £100, along with the offender’s levy of £15.

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The former Deputy First Minister for Northern Ireland, Seamus Mallon, has died, aged 83.

Mr Mallon passed away peacefully at his Markethill home on Friday afternoon.

The former Deputy Leader of the SDLP was born and raised in the Co. Armagh town, where he spent most of his life.

The news was confirmed this evening by the party he was aligned to for most of his adult life.

SDLP Leader Colm Eastwood said that Ireland has lost one of its most fierce champions for justice, equality and peace following the passing of former deputy First Minister and SDLP Deputy Leader Seamus Mallon.

Mr Eastwood said that Seamus Mallon’s life’s work carved a pathway beyond our troubled past and gave us all the opportunity to build a shared home on our island.

He said: “Seamus Mallon was a force of nature.

Mr Mallon was educated at the Abbey Christian Brothers Grammar School in Newry and St. Patrick’s Grammar School, Armagh.

As a career he chose teaching – like his father – becoming headmaster of St. James’s Primary School in Markethill.

Mallon was also involved in the GAA, playing Gaelic football for Armagh. He first played club football for Middletown during the 1950s, then with Keady Dwyers, Queen’s University and Crossmaglen Rangers.

The post Former Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon passes away, aged 83 appeared first on Armagh I.

Tributes have been flooding in following the death of Seamus Mallon – one of this country’s “greatest leaders”.

The former Deputy First Minister to Northern Ireland has been hailed as a true peacemaker, whose contribution to the Peace Process and the development of the Ireland we know is beyond measure.

Mr Mallon was born and raised in Markethill and he represented the area with distinction; his impact and influence on his successor for the local DEA, Sharon Haughey-Grimley, was boundless.

Paying tribute to Mr Mallon on Friday night, Ms Haughey-Grimley, who served as a councillor for the Cusher area for 14 years, said: “I am so very sad to lose our beloved Seamus. He was many things to many people and to me he was always a leader, a mentor, a confidant and above all friend.

“The people of this area will greatly miss him. Despite his age, Seamus continued right up to his dying days to contribute positively to our country.

“His intellect, his judgement, his steadfastness and his closeness to the grassroots meant he was one of Ireland’s greatest leaders.

“In some of our darkest days Seamus was the voice of hope and reason. Always knowing the right thing to say and to powerfully articulate his feelings was a gift that Seamus used for the good of all.

“In the midst of our sadness it is right for us to celebrate Seamus’ contribution and legacy.

Seamus Mallon with Sharon Haughey

“He was a proud Irish Man, he was a peacekaker, he was a friend to many people from many different backgrounds, he was a poet and a storyteller, a teacher and advisor.

“He was a man who sacrificed much but who continued to give his whole self is pursuit of a better future for us all.

“This place of ours, home as he called it, will never again be the same without him but by God it is such a better, happier, more peaceful and hopeful place because he was here and he left his mark.

“My thoughts and prayers at this time are with his daughter Orla, son in law Mark, beloved granddaughter Lara and entire family circle. We have all lost a giant of a man, a giant of a politician but they have lost their hero, Orla’s daddy and Lara’s granda. Seamus’ work here is now done, May he rest in peace.”

The Mid Armagh Branch of the SDLP which was founded by Seamus Mallon and of which he was a lifelong member have also expressed their deep sadness at the death of their esteemed member and friend.

Chairperson and lifelong friend Sean Lenagh commented: “Seamus was our leader always; and was the heart of our branch.

“He worked tirelessly for peace in our country and for the rights of local people. No matter what your background, if you came to Seamus Mallon for help you were never turned away.

“Seamus leaves behind a proud legacy, along with John Hume he brought Peace to our land and showed how nationalists and unionists can work together in government despite their differences.

Seamus Mallon. Photo by Emma McAnallen

“We are deeply saddened to have lost our friend and for this country to have lost a true peacemaker. We will ensure his legacy shines bright for future generations.

“This is a very sad day for Ireland and especially for our branch and for the SDLP but our deepest sympathies are with his daughter Orla, son in law Mark and granddaughter Lara and entire family circle.

“The next few days will be very hard for us all saying farewell to our friend Seamus.”

SDLP MLA Justin McNulty described Mr Mallon as a “great Irishman”.

“Séamus was a proud Irishman whose contribution to the Peace Process and the development of the Ireland we know is beyond measure,” he said.

“Séamus Mallon was a brave man. He met the challenges of a 40 year political maelstrom with a quiet unfaltering determination and fearlessness.

Seamus Mallon with Justin McNulty looking on. Photo by Emma McAnallen

“With an unyielding integrity Séamus was truthful and trustworthy and that probity was respected whether in Whitecoss, Westminster or the Whitehouse.

“As a GAA man Séamus Mallon was a talented midfielder who then stepped into the game of his life and played centre field alongside the great John Hume.

“The two of them colossuses of the Peace Process who held fast and true to the central tenet of their shared political credos – a peaceful Ireland achieved through agreement.

“Séamus Mallon understood and had a genuine empathy with the Unionist community who were his lifelong neighbours.

“From my boyhood days I have known and revered Séamus Mallon. I admired his way with words from his witty banter in his Mill Street office in Newry to his compelling maiden speech in Westminster.

“I marvelled at his strength and powerful words and I admired what he stood for. I knew him to be a great Gael and passionate Armagh man.

“One of my fondest memories is shaking his hand on the steps of the Hogan Stand in Croke Park when Kieran McGeeney lifted the Sam Maguire in September 2002. Séamus was glowing with pride.

“It is Séamus who encouraged me to take up the challenge of peaceful politics on the pathway towards an Ireland that is a shared homeplace for us all. Thank you Séamus.”

SDLP councillor Thomas O’Hanlon said: “A statesman, a mentor and friend has gone. A fearless advocate for truth and justice, he spoke against all violence, injustice and discrimination no matter the perpetrator!

Seamus Mallon with Thomas O’Hanlon looking on. Photo by Emma McAnallen

“He was one of the greatest politicians Ireland has ever had. He was respected across the globe for his work on the Good Friday Agreement and whilst he met Presidents, Prime Ministers and even the Pope, he was never more comfortable in the company of friends with a drink!

“He taught me many tricks of the political trade, he predicted my first election tally to within 40 votes, he dished out sound advice and loved to hear what was going on. He was the greatest mentor anyone could ask for.

“If you stepped out of line, he didn’t have to speak all he had to do was pause and look at you as the eyebrows moved – he didn’t have to say a word.

“As he recalled story after story of his political life you could listen to him for hours. The story he told of a Unionist councillor from the 70’s telling him no Catholic pig or his litter will get a house in Markethill as long as I live.’

“Seamus stood for Council after that and that’s where the story of Seamus Mallon in politics began.

“Above all else, he taught me not to ask a question in public you don’t already know the answer to.

“Oh and he thought me there’s nothing that can’t be solved over a wee glass of Jameson!

“Rest in Peace Seamus, you truly were a proud son of Ireland!”

Seamus Mallon. Photo by Emma McAnallen

SDLP Newry councillor Michael Savage added: “So sad to hear of the passing of Seamus Mallon. A giant of a man in so many ways. A friend, mentor, leader, and family man.

“His legacy in Newry and Armagh and across Ireland will never be forgotten. The peace we now all enjoy is a result of his vision, authority and determination. We owe him so much. My deepest sympathies to his daughter Orla and the entire family circle. Rest in Peace Seamus.

SDLP councillor for south Armagh Pete Byrne, commented: “Today the SDLP has lost one of its leaders. A true statesman and man of peace, Seamus Mallon dedicated his life to unifying the people of this island.

“A life spent carving out and securing the peace that is so precious to all of us today. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Independent Unionist councillor for Cusher, Pauld Berry stated: “i wish to offer my sincerest sympathy to Seamus Mallon’s family and friends on the sad passing of him today.

“I had the pleasure of working with him when I was MLA for Newry & Armagh and whilst we differed on constitutional matters we agreed on many other things which affected our constituents on many occasions.

“He was a very capable and hard working MP for many years and I know many Unionists who he worked for over the years and when he was Deputy First Minister he still remained a humble and hard working representative.

“He was totally opposed to violence and was a strong advocate for respecting our different traditions and indeed I believe his leadership style and conviction is missing today.

“Like many of our country men, we had more to unite us than divide us and for that I respect his legacy and assure his family of my thoughts and prayers at this time of sorrow.”

Very sad to hear of the death of Seamus Mallon. He was a tough character but with a big heart and a deep thinker about our future. pic.twitter.com/r5tAwJbfIj

— Mike Nesbitt (@mikenesbittni) January 24, 2020

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald expressed condolences.

Ms McDonald said: “I’m saddened to learn of the death of former deputy First Minister and SDLP deputy leader, Seamus Mallon.

“Seamus will be remembered for his contribution to Irish politics over many decades as the SDLP deputy leader and the key role he played in achieving the Good Friday Agreement.

“My thoughts and condolences are with his family and colleagues at this sad and difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Newry & Armagh MP Mickey Brady added: “I am saddened to learn of the death of Seamus Mallon, a formidable and highly respected politician, whose contribution to peace on this island is recognised and appreciated by all.

“My deepest sympathies to his family, friends and political colleagues”

Joint First Minister Michelle O’Neill said Mr Mallon was “a significant political figure who made a huge contribution to the politics of peace and the Good Friday Agreement”.

“His mark on our history is indelible. I send my sympathy to his family, friends and political colleagues who will feel his loss deeply at this very sad time.”

The post Seamus Mallon: Tributes flood in for ‘true peacemaker’ and one of this country’s ‘greatest leaders’ appeared first on Armagh I.

The Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Irish President Michael D. Higgins are expected to attend the funeral of Seamus Mallon in Mullaghbrack on Monday.

Mr Mallon, who passed away on Friday, aged 83, was one of the key players in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement – and served as a member of Seanad Éireann (the Irish Senate) during his long career in politics.

His funeral is due to take place at noon in St James Church, Mullaghbrack, just outside Markethill, where he lived most of his life.

Police are advising mourners and the wider public to expect traffic disruption from 9.30am until 3pm tomorrow.

A stretch of the Mullaghbrack Road, from Gosford Road to Mullurg Road, will have traffic restrictions in place to facilitate the funeral.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “We would advise anyone attending the funeral to arrive early and to approach St James Church from the Markethill side.

“We thank the public for their co-operation in advance.”

Parking arrangements

Meanwhile, Lord Mayor councillor Mealla Campbell has opened up a book of condolence in Mr Mallon’s memory.

The book of condolence will open at 10am on Monday morning at the Palace in Armagh and will also be opened by close of business on Monday in Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre and Banbridge Civic Building.

Lord Mayor Campbell, an SDLP councillor, said: “Seamus Mallon served this community for over three decades as Councillor, MP, MLA and as Deputy First Minister.

“He served everyone with distinction but without favour. He inspired many of us to get involved in public life and set the bar very high for the standards he expected.

“He was respected right across this community and indeed the globe for his work for peace on this island.

“Whilst Seamus went on to hold many offices during a very successful political career his first role was as a Councillor on Armagh District Council. It is only fitting therefore that we open a book of condolence to allow members of the public to pay tribute to one of our most dedicated public servants.

“On behalf of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and the communities we all represent I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his daughter Orla, son-in-law Mark, granddaughter Lara and the entire family circle on the loss of a wonderful family, a great public servant and proud local man.

“May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

The post Taoiseach and Irish President to attend funeral of Seamus Mallon appeared first on Armagh I.

Mourners at the funeral of Seamus Mallon heard how the Co. Armagh man was a peacemaker, bridge builder and people person who a “made a real difference to the world”

Government ministers past and present were among the mourners at St James’ Church in Mullaghbrack on Monday afternoon.

Archbishop Eamon Martin said Mr Mallon was a “shining example of someone who gives their life in a vocation of service”.

First and Deputy First Ministers Arlene Foster and Michelle O’Neill, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and NI Secretary Julian Smith were also in attendance.

As too were former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and former Northern Ireland First Minister Lord Trimble.

Seamus Mallon’s parish priest, Father Michael Woods, began by welcoming family, including Mr Mallon’s daughter Orla.

He said: “We are deeply conscious that for you, Orla, and the entire family this is an occasion of great personal sadness as you say farewell not so much to a man of high stature in public life on the island, but rather your own dear father, grand-father, father-in-law, brother, uncle and somebody hugely special and significant in your family lives”.

Remains of the late Seamus Mallon RIP being carried in to the Church of St James of Jerusalem #Armagh for his Funeral Mass pic.twitter.com/htPtjGaiYE

— CatholicBishops (@CatholicBishops) January 27, 2020

Welcoming all the politicians and public representatives in attendance, Father Woods said: “Your presence in such huge numbers is testament in itself to the impact of Seamus on the life of this island.”

Dear brothers and sisters, Seamus will be so pleased to see all of us gathered here this morning this afternoon. So many of his loved one friends and colleagues and people of all persuasions gathered here in Mullaghbrack.

In his Eulogy, Archbishop Eamon Martin made reference to people of all persuasions gathered here in Mullaghbrack, “sharing the place that he was proud to call his home”.

The Archbishop spoke of Mr Mallon spoke “lyrically” about his home place in opening of his latest book.

He quoted the book which read: “Every day of the week, I am fortunate to be within touching distance of places and moments that have helped to shape our country’s history. And indeed, about the shape me both as a person and as a politician.

“Each of my kitchen windows looks at the symbols of four centuries of divided history, the fears, the prejudices, the ethnic hatred, the lack of understanding.

“Seamus Mallon was determined to help put these things right to make a real difference, and to leave the world a better place than it was when he entered it and was baptised in this parish back in 1936.

“People sometimes speak of the noble vocation of politics, and Seamus Mallon was a shining example of someone who gives their life in a vocation of service.”

He commented how many knew Seamus as a tough negotiator and astute leader, whilst others would have know him on a personal level.

“Seamus enjoyed good company wherever he could find it, whether it was fishing on Lough Inagh, or golfing at Rosapenna or watching a match, or putting on plays and shows are pottering around the garden are playing with his faithful dog companion Jesse or savouring a creamy pint or a glass of whiskey with his fans. Seamus was a people person through and through.”

Speaking on Mr Mallon’s role as a peacemaker, the Archbishop continued: “Seamus Mallon we all know, was unequivocally anit-violence and like Heaney, the poet he loved. He saw the ongoing bloodshed of the past as a waste of life, a waste of spirit and he empathised from his heart with all those who were suffering.

“His condemnation of violence from whatever source was consistent and often left them open to insult and unfair criticism. But its principles which were rooted in a strong faith and in an unstinting commitment to a culture of life. They remain steadfast in face of any opposition.”

He shared another passage from Mr Mallon’s book, in which he wrote: “As I walk or drive on my weekly roans I’m haunted by the places that have been violated.

“Too many places violated in my Parish, my country, my country, violated by murder and massacre, places I used to know and love as I passed by them on my boyhood bicycle.

“A fitting tribute to the legacy of this great man would be a renewed commitment and a renewed effort by all of our political leaders and indeed by all of us to build that shared home place, which was Seamus version and lifelong project.”

The Archbishop said: “[Seamus] was a loving father, husband and brother and grandfather.

“Here was a dedicated Catholic school teacher and principal, a kindly and attentive neighbour, a man of many talents who wasted none of them.

“Here was a wholesome human being, who spent himself selfishly for his family, his local community, and for the common good. Here was a peacemaker, a bridge builder, a leader, a statesman, and a faithful worker for the kingdom of God.”

The post Seamus Mallon funeral: Tributes paid to a ‘peacemaker’ and ‘bridge builder’ appeared first on Armagh I.

A road on the outskirts of Hamiltonsbawn is set to be closed for the month of February.

The closures on the Mullurg Road will facilitate a £187,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme extending a distance of 750 metres between the Mullabrack Road and the Marlacoo Beg Road junction.

Work on the scheme will commence on Monday, February 3.

Minister Nichola Mallon said: “I have made clear my intent to tackle regional imbalance.

“I want any investment in road maintenance to reflect the need across our entire network. I am pleased to announce that the road improvement scheme on the Mullurg Road represents an investment of £187,000 in the Hamiltonsbawn area.

“This work will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of road for the benefit of all who use it.

“It will also better connect communities and businesses to the Markethill and Portadown areas for many years to come.

“We are working with our stakeholders to co-ordinate these essential roadworks and are publishing details in advance to help people plan alternate routes and manage disruption.”

To help ensure the safety of those using the roads, it will be necessary to operate a weekday road closure (Monday – Friday) between 8am and 6pm from Monday, February 3 until Friday, February 28.

A diversion will be in place via Mullabrack Road, Hamiltonsbawn and Marlacoo Road and vice versa.

The road will be open to traffic in the evenings during the week and all day Saturday and Sunday.

The Department has programmed the work and traffic management arrangements to minimise any inconvenience, however, drivers should expect some delays and are advised to leave additional time when planning any journeys.

Completion of the work by February 28 is dependent on favourable weather conditions.

For traffic information about this and other improvement schemes visit: www.trafficwatchni.com

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How is this for lazy?

Rubbish blatantly dumped in Markethill with no thought or concern for local residents or business people.

But what is incredible about this is that the perpetrators could not even bring themselves to travel the short distance it would have taken to dispose of it properly.

The dumping in question happened at Keady Street.

Furniture, cushions, carpet and more have simply been turfed out.

One local resident who sent Armagh I this photograph found it hard to believe just how brazen they were.

He said: “This is a stream that runs under Keady Street and behind the businesses in Geddis Square.

“Someone – instead of driving to the recycling centre in Faigreen 500 yards away – has dumped their household clearance items into the stream.”

Ulster Unionist Alderman Jim Speers condemned those responsible for the dumping.

He said: “This must be a sick lazy person to do this within yards of the council waste disposal site.”

Anyone who has any information on this or any other incident of fly-tipping can report it to the ABC Council, which is actively working towards reducing such activities which cost ratepayers thousands every year.

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A mountain bike hire facility has been given the go-ahead at Gosford as part of the plans to create a five-star tourist attraction on our doorstep.

The scheme was given the blessing of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council which has been pumping millions of pounds into the development of the forest park near Markethill.

Trails have featured prominently as part of the overall plans.

And now the council – at its leisure committee meeting this week – agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding with Disability Sport NI to run the mountain bike hire scheme.

It will people to make best use of the net network of trails mapped out across the park.

It comes as part of the ‘All Out Trekking’ project, a new initiative between Disability Sport NI and ABC Council designed to improve the health and wellbeing of people with disabilities by giving they and their family and friends the opportunity to access the
extensive range of mountain bike and walking trails at Gosford, through the use of a range of specialist outdoor wheelchairs and all-terrain electric vehicles.

During the initial pilot phase, DSNI tested the best way to operate the programme and looked at the best model to provide the opportunities for people with disabilities and others at an affordable price.

As a result, DSNI realised that to run All Out Trekking in an affordable manner, they need to operate a mountain bike hire scheme alongside the trekking buggy programme, with the bikes effectively subsidising the buggies.

DSNI plan to start up the All Out Trekking programme in April and sought agreement and permission from council to operate mountain bike hire at Gosford.

The plan is that DSNI will access funding to buy up to 30 high quality mountain bikes – for both adults and children – and will insure and maintain them.

Initially from April through to September this year, the scheme would operate Friday to Sunday – as well as Bank Holidays – from 9.30am to  5pm daily, with a review to take place towards the end of this period.

Up to five members of part-time staff would be involved in facilitating the mountain bike scheme.

The costs have been set at £15 for adult and £5 for a child for a three-hour hire, and there will also be a family rate of £30 – covering up to two adults and two children – available too.

For its part of the deal, council will provide an additional storage area for the new equipment free of charge at an agreed location within Gosford and support the development and promotion of the bike hire scheme.

Council has agreed to spent £1,500 to refurbish the new storage area and extend the alarm system in the building.

It will now sign the memorandum of understanding with Disability Sport NI to ensure the new mountain bike hire can be in place for April.

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Here’s a sneak peak of ‘The Woodpecker’ – the final design of one of five thrilling new giant play features which will be central to the Adventure Trails to be built at Gosford Forest Park.

And work has now started, with Lord Mayor Mealla Campbell cutting the first sod for the trails, just one element of the £5 million+ redevelopment of the site near Markethill.

The creation of five unique ‘super-structures’ this year will form part of a giant-sized outdoor adventure play experience.

Set in 240 hectares of stunning woodland and green spaces – and the setting for the iconic Gosford Castle – Gosford Forest Park is the location for a multi-million tourism investment which will create one of the largest adventure play trails in the UK and Ireland.

Uniquely designed to complement the location’s natural beauty and heritage, and using mostly natural materials including wood, rope, sand and bark, work to create the series of exciting giant-sized play structures gets underway.

Complete with towers, ziplines, ropes, ladders and climbing frames and larger in scale and size than any other play structure on the island of Ireland, these five new attractions will each be naturally located along a specially designed 1.7-kilometre play trail – creating an exciting journey which will appeal to children’s real sense of discovery, fun and enjoyment.

From toddlers to early teens, the new adventure trail and play structures will reflect a series of play themes and characters, including woodpeckers and squirrels.

Packed with tubes, slides and ladders, the ‘Giant’ – at 6.2 metres tall and inspired by Gosford’s link to Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels – will challenge the more adventurous, while a Gosford Castle imitation ‘Castle Tower’ – complete with double zip lines – will thrill children of every age.

Lord Mayor Mealla Campbell, said: “Stunningly beautiful and steeped in history and heritage, Gosford Forest Park is a unique, expansive and unrivalled resource and I’m delighted that this new investment will even further enhance its appeal to new generations.

“Gosford Forest Park is a special, treasured place and I’m delighted that these amazing new play structures respect, reflect and protect its natural allure but which promise an unrivalled and memorable experience for the growing number of local, national and international visitors.”

Around £850,000 is being directly invested in the new ‘Adventure Play Trail’ which is being funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under the Rural Tourism Scheme of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020 and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

DAERA Director of Rural Affairs, Paul Donnelly, said: “It is great that DAERA has been able to support the Rural Tourism Fund application from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to invest in Gosford Forest Park.

“These exciting new adventure trails will offer rural families world class play facilities on their doorstep and boost the rural tourism product in the area.  It will also hopefully act as a catalyst for further investment to this beautiful part of Northern Ireland.”

Outdoor Recreation NI led in the delivery of the design concepts and the creation of a wider masterplan for Gosford Forest Park which is already earmarked for a wider, transformational £5 million investment which will secure its future as a world class destination.

The adventure play trails were designed by award winning Davies White Landscape Architects who have expertise in playful landscapes and innovative design. Since winning their first RHS Gold Medal and BBC People’s Choice Award, the company have gone on to win over 15 national awards for innovative play space projects.

Following extensive community consultations and feedback from park users, the new structures have also been carefully designed not detract from the park’s impressive woodland setting and will sit naturally amid Northern Ireland’s first conservation park.

The new play trail will also complement 30 kilometres of new and established walking, cycling and horse riding trails.

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A well-known Markethill business has seen its rates rise a staggering £36,000 in 12 months.

The business will now have to fork out £50,000 to remain in operation – a rise that has been described as “unsustainable”.

Newry and Armagh MLA William Irwin raised the issue with Finance Minister Conor Murphy saying that it was important for him to be aware of the concerns within the small and medium sized business sector.

Tabling the question to Mr Murphy, the DUP representative asked: “Does the Minister accept that, for some businesses, the rates have become intolerable? I know of one business in a small town in the Newry and Armagh constituency that had a rates bill of £36,000, which was increased, in the new proposal, to £50,000 a year.”

Mr Murphy replied: “That seems very substantial, but I would need to know the details of the business involved to make any further comment on that.

“I would say that, where people feel that the increase is unwarranted, they should engage with LPS and should provide whatever information they can to challenge that.

“I will encourage LPS to engage with all businesses to make sure that people can attempt to make their case to LPS to try to get the fairest possible rating liability assessment.”

Speaking on the issue Mr Irwin added: “There has been a concern in recent times that revaluations for some small and medium sized business owners, are meaning a significant rise in rates and this is despite the fact those same businesses are already paying significant sums each year.

“Small businesses especially are the core and life blood of our towns and villages and this surely must be recognised by Minister Murphy and he must take on board the significant burden that is being placed on our small business sector.

“I have spoken to some local businesses who are seeing significant rises in their rates and it is making their businesses unsustainable.

“I challenge Minister Murphy to look at these concerns and move quickly with his departmental officials to lessen this heavy burden on our small and medium sized businesses.

“Competition with online retail is having a major impact on town centres and therefore for those businesses operating in our towns and villages, rating levels must be calculated based on real world trading conditions.

“Going forward, a rating system must be shaped appropriately to firstly help sustain local businesses and then to also encourage local businesses, this would only be good for our local economy.”

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A schoolboy’s plea for a safe crossing from Markethill to Gosford has been rejected by roads officials on what essentially boils down to money.

It was in January that 12-year-old Rhys Ryans wrote to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in the hope that his plea – and that of other young folk in the Co Armagh town – could be heard.

The letter – publicised on Armagh I – led to the launch of a petition too which has amassed 1,300 signatures.

Councillors threw their weight behind Rhys’ calls, as did local businesses.

The matter was also taken up with roads officials in the hope that a crossing could be provided.

An overhead bridge had been favoured, although campaigners would have been pleased to see anything in place.

As Rhys – a pupil at Markethill High School – wrote at the time: “This main road is very scary trying to cross it and my mates and I would love to go over to the forest park to get the benefits out of it on our bikes but we can’t because of the continuous traffic on this main road.

“As anyone knows the Gosford Forest Park is a big temptation for us kids and nobody wants to hear of any kids being killed by traffic trying to get some recreational use going to Gosford Forest Park or coming from it.”

This week it was revealed that work had started on the new adventure trails at Gosford.

Five ‘super-structures’ will be in place as part of Ireland’s biggest adventure themed play trail.

Lord Mayor Mealla Campbell and other councillors were present for the symbolic cutting of the first sod.

But while that was happing on one side of the Gosford Road, on the other a letter was landing on a doormat basically saying there was not sufficient money to provide a safe crossing.

In fact, the correspondence, from TransportNI Southern Division, said it would be “inappropriate” to provide such a crossing at this location.

So how did the Department arise at such a conclusion?

Well, the letter addressed to Rhys explains how and it’s not happy reading for he and his friends.

It states: here’s how: “The Department receives many request for potential improvement schemes, including crossings, and the funding available for such work is limited. Each request has to be carefully assessed in line with our published policies and, where a scheme is merited, prioritised in order to ensure the most urgent and value for money schemes are progressed.

“Factors such as scheme cost, number of personal injury collisions, current traffic volumes and speed of traffic are considered in order to establish the priority of each request compared to the priority of the many other potential schemes.

“We have assessed this location and it would be inappropriate to provide a crossing on this busy road which currently has no footways on either side of the road.

“Since the hard shoulder is not regarded as a safe place to walk it would therefore require the construction of a substantial length of footway on either side to ensure safe access from Main Street in Markethill to the entrance to Gosford Forest Park.

“Unfortunately as a result of the assessment the scheme did not score sufficiently highly to warrant inclusion on our minor works programme at this time and therefore the Department is not planning any such works at this time.

“I can assure you that your request will remain on our records and will continue to be monitored and if circumstances should change then it will be reconsidered for possible consideration in future reviews.”

Rhys’ mum Simone has been angered by the response.

She told Armagh I : “It’s not good enough for the people of Markethill.

“It is time to step this up. Rhys will bring all the signatures to the council.

“This is where a feasibility study will be useful as it gets past all the individual bodies saying ‘not viable’ and widens it out more collectively across all the departments.

“Something needs to be done and we’re not giving up.”

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A Newtownhamilton man accused of causing grievously bodily injury to a man by driving dangerously is to face the Crown Court next month.

Court heard the charge faced by the 39-year-old is alleged to have occurred on June 3, 2018, on the Coolmillish Road in Markethill.

Slavi Stoyanov Slavov, of Dundalk Street, appeared charged with causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving at Armagh Magistrates Court.

Standing in the dock, the defendant made no objection to the holding of a preliminary enquiry.

Prosecution submitted that based on the papers before the court there was a prima facie case to answer.

Defence barrister Kevin O’Hare made no contrary submissions.

Slavov was released on his own bail of £300 to appear at Newry Crown Court on March 19.

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A Markethill woman who grabbed one officer by the testicles and tried to bite another will have to wait until later this month to learn her fate.

Court heard that the 27-year-old reacted aggressively to police after they responded to a report that she had assaulted a pub landlady, pulling a clump of hair from her head.

Lesley Ann Trimble, of Coolmillish Way, pleaded guilty to common assault, two counts of assault on police, disorderly behaviour in a licensed premises and resisting police at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Prosecution outlined that on February 8, at 8.25pm, police received a report from The Victoria Bar in Markethill that the landlady had been assaulted by a patron.

Officers arrived to find the defendant sitting on the floor of the bar shouting. They spoke to the injured party who showed them a clump of hair Trimble had pulled from her head.

She explained to police that the defendant had assaulted her after she had asked her to leave the premises.

Officers then decided to remove Trimble for her own safety, due to the feeling of the other people in the bar towards her.

However, the defendant reacted aggressively towards the officers and began pushing them away.

Trimble then grabbed one officer by the testicles and was taken to the ground, where she then attempted to bite another on the leg.

When interviewed, the defendant said she could not remember being in the bar or assaulting the landlady but admitted to the attacks on the officers.

Deputy District Judge Austin Kennedy stated: “This is clearly a case for a pre-sentence report. She is almost certainly on the cusp of a custodial sentence.”

He told the defendant: “This was a very nasty incident and I am sure you are not enamoured about your behaviour.”

The case was adjourned until March 31 for sentencing.

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Work has begun on the brand new camping facilities at Gosford as part of the major multi-million pound overhaul at the Forest Park.

Set to be one of the largest adventure play trails in the UK and Ireland, camping facilities have long been an issue at the soon-to-be ‘five-star’ attraction.

And from images shared by councillor Jim Speers (above), the work is progressing well.

“This really is super news and a big boost for a top class tourist attraction in the borough,” he said.

The Ulster Unionist councillor commented on his delight at seeing the fruits of his labour, going back years on the legacy Armagh council.

“I am absolutely delighted to see that it has come about, sometimes you have to work away, lobby away and that is what I have managed to do,” councillor Speers told Armagh I.

“I am particularly pleased personally; this is an exciting day as Gosford Forest Park is something I have been involved in since day one.”

He explained: “About 10 years ago, someone spoke to me about the antiquated nature of the facilities there and I had a look and I subsequently raised it at Armagh Council.

“As a consequence we, as a council, got into conversation with the Department of Agriculture and the Forest service and hence, we embarked into a partnership in relation to the development and running of Gosford.

“This is the culmination of that and I very much welcome that as it is another step forward for the development of the area and it one of the big venues in that part of the country. It is home to the Armagh Show as well as a number of other big events.

He added: “No doubt it will be a signature visitor attraction within the southern region of the province.

“These new facilities will see a lot of people coming with caravans where they wouldn’t have done before. and they would have loved to have stayed in it, but the place really was antiquated so this is certainly a massive step forward”.

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A Markethill man who assaulted two officers after they conveyed him to hospital over health concerns has been sentenced to five months in prison.

Court heard the 31-year-old was arrested after he was found hiding in a wardrobe at a property whilst on bail.

Sean Anthony Taylor, of Bunker Hill, appeared for sentencing on two counts of assault on police, criminal damage and disorderly behaviour at Newry Magistrates’ Court.

Defence barrister Bobbie Rea stated that the defendant was currently serving a six month sentence and was due to be released in May.

Prosecution outlined that on November 6, police received a 999 call to an address in Newry, and when officers arrived there was no answer at the door of the property.

Police were about to force their way in, when they were granted entry by an occupant.

During a search of the house, Taylor was discovered hiding in a cupboard and was subsequently arrested as he was on bail.

Due to the defendant having breathing problems police conveyed him to Daisy Hill hospital and whilst there Taylor became loud and began shouting.

He then injured the hand of one officer and lunged at another, before spitting on a wall at the hospital.

Mr Rea stated: “To say this is a troubled young man would be an understatement.

“I would ask your worship, at best, not to interfere with his current sentence.”

He added: “The applicant knows all too well, this is not a community disposal case as it has clearly crossed the custody threshold.”

District Judge Mark McGarrity stated: “I give him credit for his guilty plea but unfortunately he has a very bad record for this type of offence.

“I am also taking into account the health issues noted in the probation report.”

Taylor was sentenced to five months in prison for the offence.

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