dungannon.gov

Big Companies Get Set for Gannonball....

2008-08-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

Some of Dungannon's top enterprises have come on board with exciting ideas and plans to enter the inaugural Gannonball Run event which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday 25th August. Powerscreen International and Dunbia Meats are racing to the finishing line to have their soapboxes ready for the big event which will feature a wide range of themed motorised carts race down a specially made track through the centre of Dungannon.
Also joining in on the fun are the staff of Dungannon Enterprise Centre. Manager Brian McAuley says:

"With only two weeks to go from the start of Dungannon’s first ever Gannonball Run, the Enterprise Centre has moved to warp speed to build its soapbox for the event.
The "Starship Dungannon Enterprise" will be ready for its maiden voyage within the next 2 weeks - well enough time for its crew to practice its manoevures."
Spread the word about the Bank Holiday event and the web site http://www.gannonballrun.com/
Enter your very own soapbox now online or by picking up a form at The Pixel Factory, Dungannon Enterprise Centre or at Ranfurly House, Market Square Dungannon.

GET SET FOR GANNONBALL RUN!

2008-07-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

‘Wacky Races’ Event Gets Set for Dungannon!

Breaking News! Dungannon is to host a brand new, breath taking, action packed town centre event on Bank Holiday Monday 25th August and DRP is looking for crazy, fun-loving businesses and individuals with big ideas to take part!

‘The Gannon Ball Run’ will see ‘soap box’ carts scuttle from Castle Hill down a specially made track through Market Square in a fun filled, fast paced family event!

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or just enjoy a bit of DIY – then you may be crazy enough to race down the centre of Dungannon in your own home-made soap box racer. The event will also feature motorbike stunts and demonstrations, including Auto-test and various vintage and classic car exhibitions.

Mayor The Lord Morrow MLA of Clogher Valley is looking forward to an exciting closure to Dungannon’s Summer events programme. He said:

“Dungannon has once again presented the community with a wide range of diverse and exciting summer events which include sporting and arts activities for all ages. With UTV Countryfest at the beginning of August, it is fitting to close the summer months with such an innovative and new event such as the Gannon Ball Run. I wish all of the organisers and participants the best of luck with this unique event.”

Councillor Walter Cuddy, Chairman of Dungannon Regeneration Partnership (DRP) and the organising commitee believes this event is perfectly suited to the geographic layout of Dungannon’s Market Square:

“Dungannon’s natural hilltop layout makes it an ideal arena for a race of this kind and we look forward to receiving a range of entries from both private groups and individuals and from the business sector."

The event is organised by Dungannon Regeneration Partnership (DRP) in association with Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, Dungannon Enterprise Centre, Dungannon Motor Club, Dungannon & District Motorcycling Club, The Pixel Factory, and BEAM.

Entry forms and a full list of terms and conditions are now available from all of the above organisations, plus at Ranfurly House, Dungannon Park, Dungannon Leisure Centre and online at http://www.blogger.com/www.gannonballrun.com or http://www.dungannon.gov.uk/ or http://www.dungannonlife.com/.

If you think you are up to the challenge, then get working on your own designer soap box and return your entry form to:

The “Gannonball Run” Committee
c/o Dungannon Regeneration Partnership
Ranfurly House
26 Market Square
Dungannon
Tel: (028) 8772 8600 / 8602

Summer at last?

2008-07-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

So, the sunshine is here (for one day only@ Hope not...) and what a good time to plan ahead for the Open Air Theatre on Castle Hill.
Chapterhouse Theatre Company will arrive in Dungannon to give theatre lovers a real treat - all on the picturesque setting of the majestic Castle Hill.
The group will perform 'The Tempest' on Saturday 19th July at 7.30pm and 'King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table' on Sunday 19th July at 7.30pm. Admission to each performance is £12 with £8 concessionary rate and group rates available. Book your tickets now at Ranfurly House 028 8772 8600.
Tomorrow, Saturday 5th July, Dungannon will host an outside broadcast live from The Fort in Scotch Street Dungannon so tune in to hear of all the happenings in South Tyrone over the summer months.
For children, we have a bumper programme of sports and arts activities including drama workshops (18/19 july at CRAIC Theatre) and digital music workshops at Dungannon Community Arts Studio from 4-7 August.
Check out our events section on the website for all the up to date listings as they are announced.
Have a great weekend!

Coming Up This Week...

2008-06-16T07:06:00.001-07:00

Anoter busy week here in Dungannon.....

Tomorrow night, Council will host an Information Evening on UTV Countryfest for local hospitality businesses in the South Tyrone - representatives from JW Promotions and Council's Tourism section will be on hand to answer any questions from local people who wish to 'jump on the bandwagon' and make the most of this huge opportunity!

For archaeology lovers, Castle Hill will be the venue for two unique tours (one at 1pm and then at 3pm) on Saturday 21st June. During the Time Team excavation in October 2007, the foundations of O'Neill Castle side by side with a military fort constructed in the early 17th century. Learn more about this by attending one of the tours this Saturday - booking essential on 028 8772 8600.

Dungannon Park Angling Notes

2008-06-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

Very changeable weather this week, but it is good to see a bit of rain to help freshen up our lakes and rivers and give the fish more vitality. There has been a great hatch of buzzers and the fish have really switched on to them, so if you’re ever in doubt tie on a buzzer imitation and you will have your fish in no time. Summertime has really started so a change to the floating line is inevitable, and there is some great sport to be had in the upper surface of the water. If you are using lures and having no luck, try speeding up your retrieve to entice the fish into biting, I have seen this work many times in the past. Now for something a little bit different; as you may already know, we have two resident Swans on our lake and they have nested very close to the waters edge, there were a lot of people quite concerned for their safety. Well, you may take a sigh of relief as the eggs have hatched to reveal seven perfectly healthy Signets, no doubt they will be a big hit with Dungannon Park patrons.
The Park Lake Summer Angling School starts this month from 30th to 4th July booking is essential and if you can’t book for July, we are having a repeat course in August. The event will be coordinated by Pakie Trotter and Pat Mulholland both very highly regarded game angling instructors, and assisted by Park Lake resident instructor, Neville Simpson. So book your child in today for a worthwhile experience and something a bit different to do this summer (telephone # and email address at the bottom of column).

Park Lake regular, Nelson Baillie from Castlecaufeild did well to land 3 fish for a decent weight of 6lb. Portadown angler, Thomas Lawless caught 4 fish in total for the week for a weight of 10 ¾ lb. Another of our regulars, John Chambers from Newry had a great day, catching and releasing 7 fish in total. Belfast angler, Billy Shannon managed to land 2 fish for 4lb. Another angler hailing from Belfast, Davy Thompson had a good session landing 3 fish for an outstanding weight of 8lb. Finally, Dennis McAlister lured 3 fish to his landing net for a weight of 3lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

Mayor's Monteith's Final Week in Office

2008-05-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

This week, Mayor Councillor Barry Monteith saw his duties as first citizen come to an end after a very hectic year!

On Monday, the Mayor's Showcase brought colour and talent to Market Square Dungannon. Special guests were the Bavarian Brass Band from Germany, led by local man Paddy Kelly, who are in the area on a whistle stop tour. The group called into the Council offices to a reception hosted by the Mayor on Thursday as their trip to Dungannon came to an end. Additional talent on show was by Footlights Drama Group, Dungannon; CRAIC Theatre, Coalisland and Bardic Theatre, Donaghmore as well as Beyond Skin.

On Tuesday, clients from the Beacon Centre visited the Council chamber, then on Wednesday we hosted an Anti Poverty Awareness Day whereby a range of representatives from the community and voluntary sector met to discuss the ongoing threat of poverty in modern day living.

Other recent initiatives include a Learning at Work day to encourage reading and the launch of an Anti Racism DVD which highlights how to report racist crimes

Tomorrow (Friday) a brand new heritage trail which takes you round the various historical monuments and buildings of Donaghmore and Castlecaulfield will be launched - a downloadable version is now available in the News section of the Council website.

Next week: A new Mayor will be elected at Monday night's AGM, A Plantation of Ulster conference will be held at the Bank House Hotel (4-6 June - tel 028 8772 8613 to register) and if you are interested in educating your child through the medium of the Irish language, an information evening will be held at Council offices on Thursday 5th June at 7.30pm. Contact Ursula on 028 8772 8611 for further information.

2008-05-27T05:02:00.001-07:00

COUNCIL TO HOST PLANTATION CONFERENCE AT BANK HOUSE HOTEL
Natives and Newcomers
The Plantation in Ulster.
Bank House Hotel, Dungannon
4-6 June 2008

There are few, if any, events or episodes in Irish history which can claim to have reshaped the landscape, traditions, population and language of Ireland in the manner in which the Plantation has.
The 17th Century gave birth to many of our towns, markets, courts and customs and witnessed the beginning of a process which some would argue is still unfolding today. The Plantation in, rather than of, Ulster was not an overnight occurrence nor was it the wholesale replacement of the Gaelic Irish with ‘Planters’ from England and Scotland.
The language used to describe this era has led to confusion and misconception and this has been compounded by a lack of serious re-evaluation of the early stages of that process by most scholars. The Plantation was never a certainty nor was its success.
Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council's Natives and Newcomers conference seeks to explore in more detail the texture and meaning of this crucial period of our shared historical experience. With Dungannon History Forum, the Council has brought together many of the leading authorities on this period to not only commemorate the central importance of the Plantation to Dungannon and Ulster in general , but also to reassess the role of the Plantation in building the society that we share in the twenty-first century.
To book your place at the Natives and Newcomers conference (admission free with small fee for lunch), contact Orla Hughes at Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council on 028 8772 8613

Park Lake Angling Notes

2008-05-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot going on at Park Lake over the past week, we have held our May Bank holiday weekend promotion and our Over 50’s League final, both with great success. It’s been a week of great weather and truly pleasant surroundings as the Park is in all its new summer colours, making life more comfortable for our anglers. Fish have been responding to the rise in temperature also, rising for flies and making themselves very visible, lures are still working, “Orange”, “Pink” and “Green” lures seem to be the most productive.
The highly anticipated “Over 50’s” league final was held on Wednesday with a good turnout and great weather, the winner of the competition on the day was Robert Allen from Portadown with 5 fish for a total weight of 10 ½ lb. The final league positions were as follows; in 3rd equal place were Hal Dawson from Armagh and Nelson Baillie from Castlecaufeild with 11pts each. First and second place were very close, in fact one point separated the two anglers and in second place was Michael McMullan from Poyntspass with 21pts and in first place was Lurgan angler, Bob Pinkerton with 22pts in total. I would like to thank all the anglers who took part in the league and let them know we will be running another league in the not too distant future.
Our May Bank Holiday promotion went well with a good number of anglers participating, but in the end young angler Thomas Armstrong from Newry bagged 3 fish for an outstanding weight of 12 ½ lb, and will deservedly receive an angling voucher to the value of £100.
Up and coming events include our fully supervised “Junior Angling Competition” which will be held on Saturday 24th May from 10am-2pm, all equipment is supplied free and kids from 11-18yrs can take part. Cost is £10 for entry and 1st prize is a £75 angling voucher from a retailer of your choice, 3 bag limit and heaviest bag rule applies.

Cookstown angler, Matthew Drum had a great days fishing, opting for the catch and release option he caught 9 fish in total, all good weights up to 6 ½ lb. Trevor Wylie of Markethill did well to land 3 good fish for a total weight of 9 ½ lb. Park Lake regular, Tommy McVeigh from Portadown caught and released 3 fish in total. Lisbellow angler, Jack Pincombe had a great day catching and releasing 14 fish in total. Lisburn angler, Dennis Chambers caught one fish for 2 ½ lb. Bangor angler, Scott Armstrong caught 2 cracking fish weighing a rod bending weight of 6lb 8oz and 6lb 9oz, best fish of the week. Visiting angler from England, Desmond Brown had a great weekend catching 3 fish for a total weight of 9lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

2008-05-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

Phew what a scorcher! Here in sunny Dungannon, we have had a hectic week of activity.....

On Monday 12th Council hosted a breastfeeding awareness day here in Council offices - local charity Uplift facilitated a very informative session on all the healthy reasons why breastfeeding is best.

On Wednesday our tourism representatives from Flavour of TYrone visited the Balmoral Show where they managed to convince TV chef Jenny Bristow to try her hand at cutting some Tyrone Crystal glass (see picture). Jenny also tasted some of the fine food taken from receipes in the latest edition of the Little Black Recipe Book. Entitled 'Tops and Tails', the book features a range of mouthwatering starters and desserts from Good Food Circle restaurants in Tyrone and Donegal.

Wednesday also saw a Council meeting with a difference, when St Patrick's Primary School Dungannon took over the Council chamber and told us just exactly how they would run local government. Led by their 'Mayor' Peter Dolan, the Primary 7 class certainly knew what they wanted and weren't afraid to air their views - most definitely the leaders of the future!

It was off to Dungannon Park on Thursday when country favourites Robert Mizzell, John McNicholl and Justin McGurk helped the Mayor launch a Guinness Book of Records attempt at the world's largest line dancing display. The challenge will take place when the UTV Countryfest comes to Dungannon on 2nd and 3rd August - tickets are now available locally at Dungannon Leisure Centre and all Ticketmaster outlets. Hospitality providers in town are taking calls from all Europe, so dont miss out on a great family day out this summer and remember, children under 12 go free.

Local Féis winners joined our Irish Language Development Officer and Mayor Barry Monteith on Thursday when they were honoured at a Council reception.

And on Friday, our Marketing team attended the Tri County Soccer 7s tournament in Cookstown where they promoted the large range of children's events arranged by Council this summer.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Getting Geared up for Summer...

2008-05-09T04:23:00.000-07:00

So the good weather has come and gone just in time for the weekend, but that won't stop us at Council getting ready for summer...

We've packaged all our events together and are delighted to offer our residents and visitors a packed schedule to suit all tastes. See your copy of Update magazine which will be delivered to your door week beginning 19th May.

The Mayor's Pageant is somewhat different this year - instead of the usual parade, Mayor Barry Monteith will host a staged event in Market Square on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May. THe fun includes performances from all our local theatre groups in a showcase of Dungannon and South Tyrone's finest talent. Watch this space for further details...

This Monday 12th May, Council will host a Breastfeeding Awareness Day from 12noon to 2.30pm. Last year, Council declared all its buildings and venues as breastfeeding friendly zones and we hope to further enforce this message.

We'll also be promoting life after smoke free legislation - remember drivers, you cannot smoke behind the wheel if your vehicle is used for business purposes!

We'll have our local launch for UTV Countryfest at Dungannon Park on Thursday from 11.30am where local line dancers will strut their stuff for the tv cameras to promote Ireland's biggest country and western festival which comes to town on 2nd and 3rd August. Tickets are now available locally at Dungannon Leisure Centre (Tel 028 8772 0370) or from any ticketmaster outlet. Visit http://www.jwpromos.com/ for a full line up for this fab event!

Its blue bin week from Monday 12th May -more news next Friday!

Lithuanian Cultural Day

2008-04-22T04:10:00.000-07:00

A community basketball challenge and world food market are just some of the components of Saturday's Lithuanian Cultural Day in Dungannon.

The Lithuanian Ambassador, Mr. Vygaudas Uoackas will attend a series of events including music and dance from both Irish and Lithuanian cultures.

Mayor Councillor Barry Monteith says:

“Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, through its Race Relations Project is delighted to promote such an exciting event for local people. It is also important to our local Lithuanian community to receive the visit from the Lithuanian Ambassador for the UK, Mr Vygaudas Uoackas, and his delegation and motivating to have their contribution in the event. I would like to thank the joint efforts from the Lithuanian Association, the St. Patrick’s College pupils, the Lithuanian Saturday school and of our local Council for putting together a celebration which reflects the true meaning of integration as a two ways process.”

Everyone is welcome to join in and experience Lithuanian culture this Saturday 26th April from 12 noon at Dungannon Leisure Centre. Programme is as follows:

12pm - 3pm - Community Basketball Challenge (Tyrone Towers v Lithuanian Select)
World Food Market - Free Tastings

3pm -Panel Discussion 'Local Hate Crimes'

5pm Lithuanian Weekend School

5.15pm Magic Act

5.40pm Coeomhaltas Group - Irish Traditional Music

6.10 Lithuanian Folk Band

For further information Ligia Parizzi on 028 8772 8603

Dungannon Park Angling Notes

2008-04-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

Dungannon Park Lake Angling Notes 11.4.08

Water temperature is definitely rising lately and more and more trout are making themselves visible on the surface of the lake, which is good news for the angler as he doesn’t have to guess where the fish are now. With the warm weather comes a change in tactics and methods, retrieving line should become faster and higher up in the water and various types of aquatic life come into season and can be matched with imitation flies. Green and yellow still seem to be the colour of choice and the “Montana Nymph” and “Dog Nobbler” seem to be catching a fair number of fish.
Up and coming events include the “Learn 2 Fly Fish” adult tuition for beginners and learners which will take place on Saturday 26th April with A.P.G.A.I instructor Patrick Trotter from 10am – 5pm. All equipment will be supplied and refreshments will be served, the cost is £20 for the day and there are a limited number of places so this is your last chance for interested in taking up fly fishing and receiving professional instruction. We are also running a “May Bank Holiday Promotion” which entails a £10 3 fish ticket and ½ price boat hire, the heaviest 3 fish bag will win a £100 angling voucher from a selected list of retailers. The Promotion commences on Saturday 3rd May – Monday 5th May. The first 3 fish caught will be recorded. If you have any queries on any of our events you may contact us on the details at the end of this feature.

Dungannon Angler, Thomas Beresford landed 2 good fish for a weight of 4lb. His Father, Thomas Beresford Snr caught 3 fish for a weight of 5 ½ lb. Park Lake regular, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan landed 1 fish for 4lb and released 7 fish in total. Dallingstown angler Andrew Miller caught 2 good fish for a total weight of 6 ¾ lb. Ian Mitchell of Londonderry landed 1 fish for 2 ½ lb. Noel Rutherford also of Londonderry caught 1 fish for 2 ½ lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

Weekly Fishing Update from Dungannon Park Lake

2008-04-04T02:13:00.000-07:00

It has been a great weeks fishing here at Park Lake with some great fish caught at the weekend and a successful “Over 50’s” competition. The competition was won by Park Lake regular, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan with 5 fish for a total weight of 14lb 12oz. The winter league has only one more competition to decide the overall winner, it’s very close at the top and no-ones position is set in stone. After May’s competition the “Over 50’s” will be as normal, and then we will start the summer league in July for a further 6 months.
Even though the weather has improved and water temperature has been steadily rising, the fish are still quite deep in the water so it is wise to keep a hold of your sinking line for the time being. “Orange” flies have started to become more productive lately but “Green” is still producing vast numbers of fish, but it is always wise to keep a variety of flies with you on the day.
Up and coming events include the “Learn 2 Fly-Fish” adult tuition which will be catering for beginners and learners, the course will be held by highly skilled A.P.G.A.I instructor, Patrick Trotter. It is a one day course which will take place on Saturday 26th April from 10am-5pm, all equipment will be supplied and refreshments will be served, it costs £20 per adult for the day. For more details on this and further information on the fishery you can contact us on the details at the end of this feature.

Portadown angler, Craig Henderson opted for the catch and release option and did well to catch 5 fish for an estimated weight of 15 ½ lb. Jurrison de Vriey also from Portadown caught and released 3 fish for an outstanding weight of 13lb. Armagh angler and Park Lake regular, Jimmy Corr landed 2 fish for a weight of 7lb. Another of our regulars, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan had a great session, luring 5 fish for 15 ½ lb to his landing net.

Park Lake regular, John Chambers from Newry caught and released an excellent 10 fish on the day. Another regular, Alan Brown of Glenanne caught and released 8 fish for an estimated weight of 20 ½ lb. Yet another regular, John McGookin from Carrick managed to catch and release 10 fish for an estimated weight of 28 ½ lb. Patrick McElkerney of Ballnahinch had a good day landing 3 fish for 10lb. Paul McElkerney from Saintfeild caught 3 fish for a decent weight of 8lb, one of which weighing a rod bending 4lb. Finally, Roland Bann from Bangor managed 2 fish for a weight of 4 ½ lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

Parklake Angling Notes

2008-03-21T04:10:00.000-07:00

Dungannon Park Lake Angling Notes 21.3.08

Definitely some better weather lately, even though the wind hasn’t seemed to go away the rain has died down a fraction and temperatures have risen slightly. All these signs and changes in weather can only mean the feeding habits of trout will also change. At this stage though the fish are still quite deep in the water and require a sinking line to reach, but a long leader with a sinking fly will suffice. There are some fish rising on occasion and the more skilled angler may wish to change over to a floating line with a dry fly or a line of emerging buzzers to entice these more adventurous fish.
This week we held our “Shamrock Bag” promotion, and the event proved to be very popular with 26 anglers in all taking part. The aim of the promotion was to land the heaviest bag of 3 fish to lift the 1st prize of £100 angling voucher, and there can only be one winner of course, and that was Sean Armstrong of Newry with a great bag of 3 fish for a weight of 11lb 9oz. Next week will be the results of the “Easter Monday” angling competition.

Portadown angler, Nigel McKinney had a great day landing 3 fish for a decent weight of 7 ½ lb. Armagh man, David Bradley managed to catch 3 fish for a weight of 6 ½ lb. B. Martin from Lurgan landed 3 good fish for a weight of 7 ¼ lb. Lurgan fisherman, Matthew Duff caught 2 fish for a weight of 5 ½ lb. Park lake regular, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan Landed 3 fish for 7lb and on his return visit he caught 2 good sized fish for 8lb. G. Wilson of Lurgan had a good session landing 3 fish for 8 ¼ lb.

Young Omagh angler, Terence Molloy caught 2 good fish for a weight of 5 ½ lb. Thomas Armstrong from Newry caught 3 fish for a weight of 7lb 7oz. Park Lake regular, Jimmy Brown from Newry landed 3 fish for a decent weight of 8lb. John Chambers, also from Newry landed 3 fish for 9 ¼ lb. Regular, Alan Brown from Glenanne caught 3 fish for a weight of 8lb 9oz. John McGookin from Carrick caught 3 fish for a weight of 6lb 4oz. Finally, S. Trainer from Co. Meath landed 1 fish for 2 ½ lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

Katie and Tom are 'Mayor for the Day'

2008-03-13T05:25:00.000-07:00

As part of Local Democracy Week, local students and senior citizens were given the opportunity to elect their own Mayor for The Day.

Mayor Cllr Barry Monteith handed over his chain of office on Wednesday 5th March to Tom McDaid, and then on Wednesday 12th March to Integrated College Dungannon student Katie McLaughlin.

Both Mayors had a busy schedule which included meetings with charity groups, hospital representatives, Council staff and photocalls and each learned a lot of the busy life of the Mayor of Dungannon!

Dungannon Park Angling Notes

2008-03-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

Another week of harsh winds has made it a difficult week for anglers, but not an unsuccessful one. We held our monthly “Over 50’s” competition on Wednesday with a great turnout of 12 anglers, all trying to gain a few positions on the league board. Competition was fierce and the lake fished really well with 5 anglers catching their 5 fish limit. The winner on the day was Park Lake regular, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan with 5 fish for a weight of 13lb 10oz. A great day was had by all who participated and some big fish were caught, and even bigger fish lost of course!
The cold winds blowing have sent the fish quite deep down in the water, so a sinking line or a long leader is essential to get down to them. The most successful colours lately are green and black, with flies such as the “Ace of Spades” and the “Cat’s Whisker” catching the majority of fish.
Up and coming events include our St. Patrick’s day weekend “Shamrock Bag Promotion” which will be held on Saturday 15th through to Monday 17th March. £100 angling voucher will be awarded to the angler who catches the heaviest 3 fish bag. The ticket for this promotion will be at a reduced price of £10 and boats will be available at half price. Also, we will be holding our annual “Easter Monday Competition” which will run as a singles event with bank and half day boat hire available. The event will be held on Monday 24th March from 9.30am-3.30pm, bank and stands will be pegged on that morning and a draw for the half day boats will be held on Tuesday 18th March. 1st prize for this competition is £100 cash, 2nd is £60 cash and 3rd place will receive £40, there is limited entry therefore booking is essential.

Portadown angler and Park Lake regular, Tommy McVeigh had a slow day but ended up catching a great fish at 3 ½ lb. Armagh angler and another regular, Jimmy Corr from Armagh landed 5 fish for a decent weight of 10lb 4oz. Another regular, Joe McCart from Gilford caught 2 fish for a weight of 4lb 2oz. Lurgan angler, Matthew Duff managed one fish for 2 ½ lb. Regular, Bob Pinkerton from Lurgan had an outstanding day at the weekend landing 6 fish for an outstanding weight of 17lb, which he achieved with an “Ace of Spades” presented on a sinking line.

Banbridge angler and another Park Lake regular, Alec Beck caught 5 fish for a good weight of 13lb with one of his fish weighing a rod bending 3 ½ lb. More regulars, Sean and Thomas Armstrong of Newry had a decent session landing 5 fish for a good total weight of 13lb. Finally, John Chambers from Newry caught 2 fish for a weight of 5lb.

The Park Lake Fishery continues to be stocked on a weekly basis. For further information and bookings please contact staff on 028 87 728690 or e-mail us at dpreception@dungannon.gov.uk

Get Ready for Fairtrade Fortnight

2008-02-11T04:15:00.001-08:00

Fairtrade Fortnight takes place from 25 Feb - 9 March 2008, so now is the time to get thinking of how you can get involved.

Council will host a series of events throughout the Borough to show its commitment to Fairtrade. and there are lots of things you can do in your school, workplace or community.

Fairtrade guarantees a better deal for Third World Producers. In 2006, UK sales reached over £290m and global sales of Fairtrade reached £1.1bn!

You can do your bit by organising a coffee morning using Fairtrade produce which is available in larger supermarkets or why not ttry cooking a meal for your family using only Fairtrade products?

For more ideas, visit www.fairtrade.org.uk and see local press for plans on how Council will mark this very special date in the Fairtrade calendar!

Council Bin Calendars

2008-01-29T06:54:00.000-08:00

Your new black and blue calendar for 2008 is now ready for collection. Pick up your copy at any Council building - Dungannon Leisure Centre, Ranfurly House Market Square, Killymaddy TIC, Council Offices Circular Road or Oaks Road depot.
Alternatively, have your copy emailed or posted to you by telephoning 028 8772 0318.

Poetry and Pipes at Burns Night Celebrations

2008-01-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Do you enjoy the sounds of the bagpipes, or the lilt of a good poem? If so, you are invited to attend a Burns Night Celebration this Saturday (26th January) from 6pm on Dungannon's Castle Hill. A range of entertainment has been put in place in a marquee to commemorate the life of Scots poet Rabbie Burns. Admission to the event is free - to register your place please contact Philip Clarke at Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council on 028 8772 8616.

UTV Countryfest All Set For Dungannon

2008-01-16T04:17:00.000-08:00

We are delighted to announce that the first UTV Countryfest will be held at Dungannon Park on 2nd and 3rd August 2008! The festival (organised by JW Promotions) will feature over 50 international, UK and Irish country and western stars on thre stages in the picturesque setting of Dungannon Park.

Watch this space for a full line up and keep an eye out on UTV for ticket information.

Christmas Message from Mayor

2007-12-20T02:19:00.000-08:00

A Chairde

On behalf of Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council I wish each and every citizen of the Council area a peaceful and happy Christmas and a prosperous new year. At this time we remember those less fortunate than ourselves. My focus in December has been our citizens who are away from home for Christmas ie those in hospital, care etc. I encourage everyone to remember local charities at this time.

Mayor Cllr Barry Monteith

TIME TEAM EXCAVATION - more pix now online!

2007-11-23T04:06:00.000-08:00

In October 2007, Time team together with the Environment and Heritage Services of Northern Ireland and Queen’s University Belfast investigated the structural remains of the O’Neill castle and the fortified town and searched for evidence of prehistoric occupation at this complex and fascinating site.
Four trenches were opened across the hill slope to investigate topographic and geophysical features.
One of the trenches provided possible evidence for a 17th Century earthen military fort.
Another trench located a deep wide ditch which may be one of the ditches shown by Richard Bartlett’s map commissioned in 1602:
The most exciting discovery was at the summit of the hill where archaeologists uncovered two stretches of wall. The first of these is some 2 meters thick with base batter and may represent the foundations of O’Neill Castle.
In Pennar’s survey of 1619, it is reported that Sir Arthur Chichester constructed a new fort of stone and lime with 4 bastions, some 120 x 120 feet in dimension.
A sketch accompanying Pennar’s report shows a tall tower surrounded by 4 bastions.It would seem therefore that the archaeologists have unearthed Chichesters’s fort.
While contemporary accounts suggest that O’Neill Castle had been demolished by this time, it might be the case that either foundations had been used for the footings of a new tower by Chichester or that Chichester remodeled the old Castle and placed it as the central part of his new fort.
Located directly beside this was a spear shaped bastion of probable early 17th Century date.
Other finds include a piece of flint that points to human activity 6000 years ago, lead musket shots and a stoneware flagon (drinking vessel) dating back to the late 16th or early 17th Century. Jon Willers from Time Team believes that the stoneware flagon originated in Germany: “This is a high status piece. Who knows, maybe it was used by Hugh O’Neill of Arthur Chichester”.
A full report on the findings of these exploratory excavations will be available by mid to- late January 2008.

To view our full gallery of pictures, visit http://www.dungannon.gov.uk/ and click on Gallery

All the fun of the Craft Fair!!

2007-11-23T03:29:00.000-08:00

Pack in some extra special Christmas shopping at the Flavour of Tyrone annual Christmas Craft Fair at the Linen Green in Moygashel this weekend!

The fun kicks off at 11am on Saturday with an official opening by Mayor Cllr Barry Monteith and then its time to shop, shop, shop. You are sure to find unique Christmas gifts for all the family - we have everything from jewellery to jumpers!

The Craft Fair is open on Saturday from 11am to 5pm and on Sunday from 1pm - the Linen Green shops will be open at these times also.

Don't miss it!

No time here for Winter blues...

2007-11-15T02:00:00.000-08:00

Here in Dungannon, we have a bumper Winter events package planned to suit all tastes -

Coming up next week is Rally Ireland which will zoom through Fivemiletown on the 18th November - not for the faint hearted but a must for all sporting fans!

The Flavour of Tyrone Christmas Craft Fayre is always a big hit with shoppers over the festive season and the perfect chance to pick up something truly unique for that special someone in your life. The Craft Fayre takes place this year in the Linen Green Moygashel on the 24th and 25th November with lots of festive entertainment in store to keep your spirits up as you shop!

Coalisland will switch on its Christmas lights on Friday 30th November and parents of young children will be delighted to know that this year's special guest is the one and only PC Plum of Balamory! See PC Plum, Santa, CRAIC Theatre's Aladdin cast and music from local band Mustang take the stage from 6pm at the Cornmill Carpark.

The following day (Sat 1st December) sees a SANTASTIC fun day come to Dungannon where the fun will kick off at 11am with Christmas Storytelling and Kiddies Crafts at Dungannon Library. CBeebies fans will be delighted to catch Pete Hillier from Boogie Beebies in a special show at St Anne's Church Hall at 12noon and again at 2pm - booking for this event is open now at Ranfurly House on 028 8772 8600. Book early - first come first served. The fun continues with a Six FM Roadshow in Market Square from 2-6pm and dont miss Santa's Grotto on Castle Hill from 2pm - 4.30pm. Carol Singers with special guests will entertain shoppers in Irish Street, Scotch Street and Church Street while additional music will come from Dungannon Silver Band. 'That Man' Circus Show, dancing Christmas characters and the cast of High School Musical will keep the festivities going until 5pm. The Christmas Lights will be switched on by Santa Claus and the Mayor Cllr Barry Monteith at dusk.

Dungannon Leisure Centre will host Northern Ireland's biggest High School Musical from Tuesday 4th December with schools from across three counties taking part in the Disney smash hit show. Tickets are now available feom ticketmaster.co.uk or from Gene Stuarts and the Music Shop Cookstown.

The fun continues in January with CRAIC theatre's magical pantomime 'Aladdin' which opens on Thursday 10th and runs until 20th January (Thurs - Sun only). Contact CRAIC for further information and keep an eye right here for ticket details.

Don't be afraid of the cold this winter - with so much happening in Dungannon, you'll never have the winter blues!!

Time Team Dig Up Dungannon

2007-10-18T03:18:00.000-07:00

Excitement is mounting this week as the hit TV show Time Team continue to dig up artefacts from the 17th century on our very own Castle Hill! Jon Willers of Time Team says the evidence of medieval life is very fluid and the course of their findings is changing every five minutes!

So far, findings include walls of the original castle owned by Hugh O'Neill plus three trenches which reveal what appears to be the castle's moat! Also found is a stoneware flagen - a high status item believed to have been owned by either O'Neill or Chichester. The Time Team believe they may have uncovered a road which led to the castle heading eastward which changes the whole orientation of the old town and evidence of houses and medieval pottery indicate hoe the normal townsfolk lived.

Time Team will finish their dig today - watch this space for a full report!

Health and Wellbeing Day - sample some therapy!

2007-09-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

Feeling stressed? Run down? Or perhaps you just fancy a bit of pampering? Come along to Dungannon Leisure Centre on Thursday 27th September and enjoy Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council's complimentary Health and Wellbeing Day.

From 2pm to 8pm, residents of South Tyrone can sample holistic therapies, acupuncture and general well being plus lots more.

For further information contact Elaine Devlin on 3752 9601

See you there!

Dungannon's First Arts Festival!

2007-09-17T04:02:00.000-07:00

Hot off the Press! Dungannon is to host its first Arts Festival from 1st - 7th October at various venues throughout the Borough - the fun includes exhibitions, creative writing classes, and lots more from pottery to graffitti workshops. Here's what the Arts Forum Chairperson, Gwen Stevenson, has to say:

"When a motley crew of local artists, musicians, crafts people, filmmakers, performers and general latterday geniuses joined forces earlier this year, the outcome was always going to be spectacular. Well, here it is! The zenith of our efforts! For one week, we will be storming Dungannon with an eclectic mix of contemporary art, craft, performance, music and debate. Yes, it's wacky! And it's a first! So, come on out and join this meltin pot of creativity. Moments of magic and wonderment are guaranteed."

For full details on Dungannon's Arts Week, log on to http://www.dungannonartsforum.com/

All the Fun of the Festival!

2007-09-14T06:09:00.000-07:00

What a weekend we had here in Dungannon as we commemorated the 400th anniversary of the Flight of the Earls! There was dancing in the streets, live music, live theatre, street entertainment and of course the opening of Castle Hill to the public for the first time in many, many years.
Thanks to all who made it such a memorable occasion - from performers, local tradespeople who got into the festival spirit, outside agencies who contributed in any way and of course all Councillors and staff who really pulled out the stops.
Next up is our Arts Week from 1st - 5th October, then the Hallowe'en Spooktacular on 16th October with lots of scary shenanigans and shopping discounts to take your breath away!

Our First Blog

2007-09-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Talk of the Town

Welcome to a brand new weekly column, dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and views from Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council.

Hugh’s News

latest update on Dungannon’s Flight of the Earls Festival 6 – 9 September

No, it wasn’t a mirage! Some of you may recall seeing several of your favourite politicians walking the streets of Dungannon recently in 17^th century dress when a cross party delegation of local Councillors distributed promotional leaflets on the forthcoming Flight of The Earls Festival. The response from the public was fantastic and the raising a few smiles along the way. Rumour has it that Councillors plan to step back in time on numerous occasions over the next few weeks as they get into the festival spirit throughout of our towns and villages.

Festival preparations are now underway in earnest, with Frances Black confirmed as the headline act at an outdoor concert in Market Square on Saturday 8^th September. Frances’ music has a universal appeal and she is well know for her contribution to the phenomenally successful 1996 album ‘A Woman’s Heart’ which also featured Dolores Keane, Sharon Shannon and Frances’ sister Mary Black. Local celtic masterminds More Power to Your Elbow will take you on a Trip to Tipp and back again as they play their greatest hits live on the evening as well, and for Riverdance fans, a spectacular performance of Irish dancing is not to be missed. Also looking forward to the festival is the newly formed ‘Kilgannon’ – a band of Ulster Scots and Irish traditions from Killybegs and Dungannon who will give a toe tapping performance on the same evening.

If you can’t wait that long to get into the carnival spirit, don’t worry – the famous 2FM roadcaster will broadcast LIVE from Market Square this Friday 17^th August from 12 – 2 FM. Come along and say hello to broadcasting favourite Ruth Scott as she plays the hits of today all over Ireland from right here in Dungannon!

There truly is something for everyone at Northern Ireland’s only Flight of the earls FESTIVAL - from youth concerts, to business events, live theatre and lots to do and see for all the family!

Watch this space over the next few weeks as the festival gets closer and I’ll keep you up to date with all the news as it happens!

Festival Summary

Wednesday 5^th Official Launch at Bank House Hotel – Thursday 6^th Skills Beyond 2007 at South West College Dungannon – Friday 7^th Meet the Buyers At Dungannon Leisure Centre – View From the Hill and Flavour of the Times (step back in time to the 17^th Century on Castle Hill) – Saturday 8^th September Rock the Park at Railway Park with Play the Thief and lots more – Live Music from More Power to Your Elbow and Frances Black plus Riverdance and Kilgannon in Market Square – Magnificent Pageant and Pyrotechnic displays from Castle Hill – Sunday 9^th September Hymns of Harmony on Castle Hill. Contact 8772 0300 ext 1600

Looking Forward to the Festival

Every week in the lead up to the Flight of the Earls festival, we ask a local personality to say which particular element they are looking forward to the most. This week, we ask singer and radio broadcaster Malachi Cush:

“There are so many elements of the festival I’m looking forward to and I think it’s a fantastic effort by the local Council to commemorate this occasion at such a high level. In particular I’m really keen to have a look around Castle Hill which will form such a key focus of the town centre, and the idea of stepping back in time to sample life of the 17^th century should be great fun. I’ve seen Frances Black perform at numerous festivals and she always puts on a great show, so I’m looking forward to the Saturday night concert as well.”

Did You Know?

If everyone lived like we do in Northern Ireland, we would need three planets worth of resources to survive!!! Ecological Footprints calculate the amount of the earth’s resources (water, timber, carbon) that each of us uses and the waste we produce to sustain our lifestyles. To measure your Ecological Footprint, visit www.footprint.wwf.org.uk. If you are a community group who would like to take the Community Eco Challenge – a brand new project promoted by Southern Group Environmental Committee, please contact either Lynn Morrow or Anne Greene on 028 37 515800 (a.greene@sgehc.com or l.morrow@sgehc.com) for further information.

Snippets

COSTA and Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council will host a Fairtrade Coffee Morning on Fri 31^st August at the President Grant Ancestral Homestead for local community groups ~ An Environmental Awareness Day will be held at Ballysaggart Lough on Wednesday 22^nd August where Wetlands Trust, Ulster Wildlife Trust, Peatlands Park, Conservation Volunteers NIand RSPB will take part in promoting the welfare of the lough’s natural habitat. ~ Don’t miss the Council’s Health and Wellbeing Day at Dungannon Leisure Centre on Thursday 27^th September – more details to follow!