By Alan Healy

There are plans for a new Maurice Harron peace sculpture to be erected at Ebrington Square, the Derry News can reveal today.

The sculpture, known as the Peace Pledge Tree, was created as part of a project launched by the late deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness (pictured), in June of last year.

The ‘Amazing the Space’ initiative was announced at Ebrington, after being developed over three years by Dr. David Latimer from Derry First Presbyterian Church, which also involved a steering group of young people from over 400 schools across the north.

The Executive Office provided £189,000 funding for the initiative, which is being led by Co-Operation Ireland.

The initiative is aimed at young people involved in peace-building and is closely aligned with the Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ strategy.

An ‘Amazing the Space’ event was held at the Eikon Exhibition Centre at former site of the Maze prison in September of 2016, where 5,000 young people took part in the largest youth-led peace event ever held in Northern Ireland.

The centre piece of the event was pupils attaching ‘peace pledges’ which were attached to a specially designed Peace Pledge Tree.

The 4.5 metre (15ft) stainless steel sculpture was designed and made by Derry born artist Maurice Harron.

The Derry News has now learned that a permanent home is now being sought for the sculpture, with Ebrington Square now being explored as a possible site for work.

Permanent

Speaking to the Derry News, Reverend Latimer outlined the origin of the initiative and his hopes for the sculpture to now take up residence at the site where the initiative was first unveiled.

“Over a three-year period I visited 409 schools across the nine counties of Ulster resulting in their agreement to participate in a youth led peace building initiative, now entitled Amazing The Space.

“409 schools have written Peace Pledges, which powerfully articulate what young people consider we all must do if we are to live better together.

“The Tree incorporates 409 large oak leaves each embossed with a school peace pledge.

“I believe It is time to listen to our young who are shimmering with fresh perspectives, new ideas and positive energy.”

He added: “I'm anxious to have the Tree permanently displayed in Derry/Londonderry as this is where the initiative to give young people a role in peace building began.”

The Derry News contacted The Executive Office (TEO), which is now responsible for the redevelopment of the 26 acre Ebrington site following the closure of Ilex Development Corporation Limited.

A spokesperson for The Executive Office confirmed that it is currently looking at a ‘number of options’

“A sculpture was created as part of the Amazing the Space initiative, a scheme supported by Together: Building a United Community, the Executive’s good relations strategy,” the spokesperson said.

“The Executive Office is exploring a number of options for its location. Any proposal would be subject to the appropriate approvals.”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

By Alan Healy

A number of families have been forced to leave their homes in Derry because of a rat infestation they claim has plagued the area for a number of years.

The Derry News was has spoken to several families and people living in the Bogside area who say their lives are being made a misery by vermin which have infested their homes.

In one instance, a mother-of-two abandoned her home for four months after discovering ten dead rats in her house.

Meanwhile, another woman said that she was forced to leave her home for seven weeks after a rat scurried over her feet while she was making food in her kitchen.

A housing association has now said that a local pest control agency is being brought in to deal with the infestation.

One of the worst affected areas is a section of Lisfannon Park, where the Derry News met with householders who said they are now considering leaving their homes permanently if the problem is not addressed.

A number of residents have also caught rats using traps in recent weeks, but said that the measures they are using are simply not enough to stop the rodents coming into their homes.

However, the Derry News has learned that the problem has spread to other streets in the area, including Durrow Park, Elmwood Street and Joseph Place, Derry.

One resident of Elmwood Street, Shauna Gill, was forced to flee her home for 18 weeks after the problem became ‘unbearable’ in July of last year.

“I first moved into the house in October 2016, and we had problems with rats from the start,” she said.

“What made me really angry was that I later discovered that there had been rats in the property prior to me moving in, which I found out through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, and raised my concerns with the Housing Executive that this is something that should have been dealt with before we moved in.”

The problem steadily worsened, however, leaving Shauna with no option but to leave her home.

“The worst was when we found ten dead rats, and there was a lot more running about,” she added.

“One night, we were having dinner in the kitchen and the smell was just unbearable. We had found them dead under the living room floor so it was obviously another one which had died and we couldn’t stand it any more so I just lifted the children and left.”

'Awful' noise

Angela Connolly, who lives in Lisfannon Park, said that the problem in her home first started two years ago, adding that it is now so bad that she has difficulty sleeping at night due to noise of rats.

“You are constantly being woke up by the noise of them scurrying about in the walls and the roof space, it’s just awful,” she said.

“It spoiled our Christmas, just knowing that they’re in the house with you.

“We caught one in a trap there last week, and it was massive.

“The infestation, and it is an infestation, not just a few rats running about, has been going on for years.”

Bernadette Anderson, who also lives in Lisfannon Park with her four children said she had also caught a rat in her hall, adding that several other homes in the street were also affected.

However, the Derry News has learned that the problem has spread to other streets in the area, including Durrow Park, Elmwood Road and Joseph Place, Derry.

Cavity

The Derry News spoke to Leona O’Donnell who was forced to leave her home in Joseph Place a short distance away after an infestation.

“I was standing in the kitchen making food and a rat ran over my feet,” she told the Derry News.

“That was awful. There were coming in through a cavity on my wall and I moved out for seven weeks, I just couldn’t bear it after that.”

Commenting, the independent councillor for the area, Gary Donnelly, described the extent of the infestation as ‘shocking’.

He also called on housing associations not to deal with the problem in isolation, but to work with both each other and private landlords to ensure that a permanent solution is found.

“The amount of properties affected in the area is shocking, and we’ve reached the point where people are being forced out of their homes,” he said.

“Many of those affected are young families with children and there is a real risk here to health as these vermin spread diseases.

“I would be calling on the Housing Executive, Apex and private landlords to now work together to address this, given that some of the properties which are infested are located on the same terrace.”

In a statement issued to the Derry News, spokesperson for the Housing Executive said that it had not received any reports relating to the issue, but would be investigating the complaints.

Pest control

“The local office has not received any reports of this nature from tenants in the area, in fact the last reported incident was in May 2014,” the spokesperson said.

“However, we have now arranged for a maintenance officer to visit the area.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Apex Housing Association, which has responsibility for one of the houses impacted, said that it has employed a pest control contractor to deal with the matter.

“Apex is aware that there may be a problem in the area and over recent weeks has employed North West Pest Control to address any specific issues within our dwelling,” the spokesperson said.

As the Apex property is mid-terrace other private landlords, the Housing Executive and owner occupiers living along the terrace should take similar measures if they have concerns.”

A video showing one of the rats after it was captured can be watched below:

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

By Alan Healy

A new building comprising of holiday apartments designed for tourists is being planned for the city centre, the Derry News can reveal.

The new development will be located at lands to the rear of a new 116-bedroom Holiday Inn Express Hotel, which is currently under construction at the site of former Strand Bar and Flamin’ Jacks complex on the corner of Strand Road and Great James Street.

The site, which takes in lands between numbers 6a and 8, Great James Street, will be made up of a short-let tourist apartment suite development with 22 suites.

The proposal came to light in a recent planning application lodged with the local planning authority, Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Speaking to the Derry News, Brendan Duddy, of Glen Road Properties Ltd, the applicants behind the development said that the new apartments would be a ‘unique’ offering in the local tourism market.

“We’re starting off with 22 new suites, pending planning approval, which we then hope to increase to 50 suites,” he said.

“This is something that hasn’t really been done before in Derry, where people can stay at a high-quality apartment suite, specifically designed for the holiday market.

“Each suite will sleep four people, and they will be finished to a very high-level with great facilities, and there will also be a small gym in the building.”

Mr Duddy added that it was hoped work would start on the new apartment suites prior to the completion of the Holiday Inn Express, which he said was due to be completed this autumn.

“We’re hoping to start work on the new apartments in the next six months, definitely before the completion of the hotel,” he said.

“Once work begins, we’re looking at a 12 to 18-month timescale depending on planning approval coming back.”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

by Alan Healy

A former drug addict has warned that Derry is in the grip of an ‘epidemic’ involving the misuse of medication and prescribed drugs.

The warning came at a meeting of a local group which provides support for people with drug and alcohol issues in Derry.

Heal the Hurt hosted the event in the Galliagh area on Friday night, which heard from recovering drug addicts who issued a stark warning that the misuse of prescribed drugs such as Xanax and OxyContin are overtaking illegal drugs in Derry.

Xanax is not readily available in the UK but people are getting hold of it through private prescriptions and the internet.

The drug is a tranquiliser are designed to calm or relieve tension in users, and can be highly addictive.

OxyContin meanwhile, is used to treat moderate to severe pain that is expected to last for an extended period of time.

Prior to the meeting, the Derry News spoke to a number of people who use the services provided by Heal the Hurt, who spoke of their own experiences with drug abuse and recovery.

However, they also issued a warning about the prevalence of prescription drugs in the city, particularly amongst younger people, who may not be aware of the risks they are exposing themselves to by taking them.

One of those who spoke to the Derry News was Christopher Mallett, who said that Heal the Hurt had helped turn his life around after a prolonged period of crime and drug abuse during which he was addicted to heroin, and at one stage saw him under a death threat from a paramilitary group.

He told the Derry News that the group had given him ‘new hope’ by helping him recover psychologically, and restored his ‘self-esteem’.

“At one stage, my heart stopped three times and I was brought back to life and I remember one of those times taking 50 Xanax out of my pocket, and eating them.

“When I came around, I was in Gransha.

“That’s when I decided to get clean.

“Getting the body clean was just the first step, it was the psychological I then had to deal with.

“And that’s where Liam Stewart and Heal the Hurt came in. He managed to get the death threat lifted and brought me into the group.”

Christopher has now progressed to the point where he is delivering public information talks about the dangers of drugs, the most recent of which was in Carnhill a number of weeks ago.

“The therapeutic value of sitting and talking with other addicts is unparalleled to any other treatments,” he added.

“I think the problem is that people aren’t educated on addiction, and they just think that you’re a scumbag, you have no education.

“Heal the Hurt aren’t like that, they don’t judge you and accept you for who you are at face value.

“It was my father who contacted them and said I was going to die – I had nowhere else to go, and Liam took me in.”

Lyrica

He also issued a stark warning about the increasing usage of prescription drugs.

“In the 90s the party drugs were cocaine and ecstasy, now it’s the doctor who is the drug dealer,” he added.

“I feel my job now is about prevention, and putting it out there that it’s the prescription drugs that are taking over now, it’s an epidemic out there on the streets.”

The Derry News also spoke to another member of the group, Rob, who said that Derry is ‘awash’ with prescription drugs such as Tramadol, a strong painkiller, and the likes of Lyrica (Pregabalin), another painkiller.

He added that children as young as 13 are abusing such substances on a regular basis.

“The prescription drugs are taking over, they’re easier to get and there’s less risk,” he said.

“What I’m hearing is that there are a lot of prescription drugs being bought off the web, so the people buying these drugs don’t even know what’s in them, so there’s an added danger.”

“I would say to young people, just don’t take them, but it’s everywhere, it’s all over Derry.”

Chemists

The Derry News also spoke with a recovering heroin addict, who wished to remain anonymous.

She said that if not for Heal the Hurt, she would have to move to Dublin and become homeless in order be eligible for a treatment programme.

Commenting, Liam Stewart, found of Heal the Hurt, said that a number of recent deaths in the city had been caused by prescription drugs such as Xanax.

“The message needs to get out there, Xanax, morphine patches, Tramadol are now becoming a bigger problem as illegal drugs, if not bigger,” he said.

“People are travelling to chemists outside of Derry to get the stuff.”

He added: “Parents need to be aware and be educated about this, because it is killing our young people.”

The Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Drug and Alcohol lead Michael Owen said: “The fact is, all drugs carry risks, therefore the PHA strongly recommends that you do not take anything unless it has been prescribed to you by a medical professional and in accordance with your prescription.

 “If you have taken drugs or have misused a prescribed medication and are feeling unwell, please seek medical help urgently.

 “If you think you might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help please visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info for information on support services near you. There is also a range of services available to you if you are affected by someone else’s drinking and/or drug misuse, information on these services are also available on this website. These services are available to you regardless of whether or not your loved one is receiving help for his or her alcohol and/or drug problem.”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

by Gareth Cross

Derry and Belfast's councils ploughed ahead with their £350,000 European Capital of Culture 2023 campaign despite private concerns that Brexit would derail the bid, it emerged last week.

Internal correspondence released last week shows that the councils asked the British government if the bid could be jeopardised by the Brexit vote. And they were warned that it could - and that the government was not prepared to cover their losses.

The European Commission (EC) announced in November that all bids for the title from the United Kingdom, including Belfast-Derry would be immediately discontinued due to Brexit.

The two councils had already spent £350,000 on their joint bid by the time it was announced that they were no longer eligible.

According to the European Commission, the European Capitals of Culture initiative, which began in 1985, is designed to 'highlight the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe', adding that its experience has shown that event is an excellent opportunity for ‘regenerating cities, raising the international profile of cities, boosting tourism and breathing new life into a city's culture’.

In July the two councils sent a joint letter to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to seek assurances the bid could still go-ahead. This information has come to light as the result of a Freedom of Information request.

The letter from Derry City and Strabane District Council Chief Executive John Kelpie and Belfast City Council Chief Executive Suzanne Wylie asked the department to "provide an up-to-date position on the 2023 designation in the context of Brexit negotiations."

They asked for the update "given the level of financial commitment involved in bidding as well as significant engagement with local citizens."

"In particular, has a formal agreement been reached with the European Commission that the UK city designated as European Capital of Culture 2023 will be accepted by the EU regardless of the outcome of these negotiations?" the letter asked.

In response the DCMS said the competition would "run as normal" but warned the councils that Brexit negotiations "could have a bearing on the UK's participation and the government will advise on this once negotiations have been concluded".

"As is usual with cultural programmes and competitions the UK government bears no responsibility for the financial investment made by cities and councils," the department said.

After the EC confirmed the bid could not go ahead, a spokesperson for the local council said that, Derry City and Strabane District Council and Belfast City Council have spent a total of £350,000 to date out of the total budget of £800,000.

However, the spokesperson did not say how much Derry City and Strabane District Council had contributed to the £350,000 spend.

'Bit of a gamble'

In April, SDLP councillor Shauna Cusack admitted at a Derry City and Strabane District meeting that while the bid was 'highly ambitious', it was also a 'bit of a gamble'.

The meeting was told that there were ‘multiple risks’ associated with Derry/Belfast bid, many of which could be managed by both the councils.

However, Oonagh McGillion, Director of Legacy with the council, said that the key risk of the bid being cancelled due to the UK no longer being part of the EU due to Brexit was ‘beyond the control’ of the council.

She added that Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) could not give a commitment at this stage due to ongoing Brexit negotiations and the department had ‘made it clear that all financial and resource investment, by a bidding city/region, is undertaken at risk’.

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said that the five bidding cities are continuing to liaise with the Department for Culture Media and Sport on the status of the ECoC 2023 competition and to agree a clear way forward for all the cities involved.

"Derry City and Strabane District Council and Belfast City Council remain committed to this process and will communicate any further developments once they become available," the spokesperson said.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

SDLP Councillor Shauna Cusack has called on the those responsible for land in and around Meadowview and the Glen Road to remove a number of abandoned and dumped items which have been ignored.

Cllr Cusack said: "I have been in direct contact with the Housing Executive and Council Cleansing to remove household items which have been either deliberately dumped or forgotten in the area.

"Items such as broken bikes, walkers and beds are making this shared space a complete eyesore and would not be tolerated in any other park in the city.

"The residents of this area deserve to enjoy a clean and attractive environment just like anyone else and are more than frustrated that some people have no respect for their community.

"I'm delighted that the Housing Executive have issued an immediate order to remove items on their land and I expect council to follow suit.

"I would hope 2018 will bring a more positive attitude to loving where we live by taking pride and collective responsibility for looking after our beautiful city. "

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

Sinn Féin Councillor Colly Kelly has urged residents and business owners in the upper Creggan Road area of the city to be on the alert following a number of break-ins in the area over the weekend.

Councillor Kelly said" “I would urge residents in the Grangemore, Ardgrange and Cashlemore areas to be vigilant. There have been a number of break-ins and people spotted trying doors and patio doors in the area over the weekend.

"These criminals are looking for cash, small electrical items such as laptops, mobile phones, jewellery and in some cases medication.

"In recent weeks we have seen a spate of crimes taking place in the Buncrana Road area and now here.

"I would appeal to residents if they are leaving their home for even a short space of time that they always lock their windows and doors, back gates and if they have valuable garden tools and machinery that they are securely locked up at night"

"If you see suspicious activity around a neighbour's house, particularly if there is no one at home, call the police.

"Your home or business could be next."

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

Police are appealing for information following the report of an assault on a 37-year-old man in Derry.

It is believed that sometime between midnight on Thursday, December 9 and 4am on Friday, December 10 the injured man was assaulted whilst he was walking between the Lislane and Broadway areas of Derry.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

Constable Clare Willis would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact Police at Strand Road on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 468 12/12/17. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

A young county Derry man went to jail today (Tuesday) after pleading guilty to causing the "tragic death" of a 28-year-old man from the 'Travelling Community' in a so-called one-punch attack, two years ago tomorrow.

The plea by 26-year-old Finbar McCoy jr came a day after he was due to have gone on trial for a second time before Derry Crown Court, for the manslaughter of Mr James McDonagh.

Mr McDonagh, from Castledawson, died in hospital from head injuries he sustained outside the Elk Bar, Toomebridge, in the early hours of January 10, 2016.

McCoy jr, from Tamlaghduff Road, Bellaghy, had always admitted throwing the single punch which floored Mr McDonagh, but until today (Tuesday) maintained he was innocent of causing his unlawful death.

This morning defence QC Elis McDermott asked trial judge Mrs Justice Keegan for her client to be "rearraigned" on the single count. Following his guilty plea, Ms McDermott said while McCoy had been on bail until now, he wished to end it and to go into custody.

The defence lawyer told the Derry court, sitting in Belfast, that in addition to the usual presentence and other reports, a set of agreed facts on which McCoy's plea was based would also be lodged with the court.

Prosecution QC Ciaran Murphy said that he would also be lodging a number of victim impact reports from the family of Mr McDonagh, including his mother and sisters who were in court for McCoy's guilty plea.

McCoy's plea and sentence was adjourned until next month for preparation of those various reports.

Last month at the end of a week-long trial a jury of six men, and six women, following over five hours deliberation over two days, reported they were "hopelessly divided" and could not agree on a verdict.

They had heard that McCoy jr was in the Elk bar with his family celebrating his father's retirement. Events before the end of "the fateful evening" were fine and that the "craic was good".

Mr McDonagh, and his nephew John, who were known to staff as just ordinary punters, were also in the bar, drinking. However, as the evening came to a close around 2am, there was a confrontation between some parties in the carpark.

At one stage Mr McDonagh was stripped to the waist, "shouting and roaring  ... laughing, egging" people on.

McCoy jr, returned to the carpark and found his parents were injured, and had to be restrained. However, he managed to break free and in a "rage" ran over and punched Mr McDonagh.

McCoy jr, later said he "panicked" and "fearful for his family", threw the punch as a "scare tactic" and that immediately afterwards he punched "a fence in his temper".

Although Mr McCoy snr and others put an unconscious Mr McDonagh in 'the recovery position', and despite advice from those present that he should be taken to hospital, he was driven to his mother's home.

She said her son was lying on the sofa, making a snoring noise, but she could not awaken him.  Some hours later her daughter called for an ambulance, and staff found Mr McDonagh to be "totally unresponsive".

A post mortem later revealed that Mr McDonagh died from bleeding and swelling of the brain after a punch caused him to fall backwards and he hit his head off the pavement, fracturing his skull, resulting in the injuries to his brain and death.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

CONWAY, Gerard (Gerry), died 7th January 2018, peacefully at the Mater Hospital, Belfast, beloved husband of Jackie, dear father of Deirdre, dear son of Rose and the late Packie RIP. Gerry's remains will be removed from his home 33, Springvale Park, Derry, at10.30am (Today) Thursday 11th Inst. to the Holy Family Church, Ballmagroarty, for Requiem Mass at 11am. Funeral immediately afterwards to the City Cemetery.
Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul.

DOHERTY (née Monk), Jennifer Anne, died 9th January peacefully at the Foyle Hospice, beloved wife of Martin, loving mother of Joanne, Martin, and the late Kathleen. Funeral leaving her home 23 Knoxhill Avenue, Prehen on Thursday at 9.20am to St Columb’s Church, Chapel. Road for Requiem Mass at 10.00am. Interment afterwards in St Mary’s Cemetery Ardmore. Family Flowers only please. Donations if wished to the Foyle Hospice 61 Culmore Road Derry.  FAMILY TIME PLEASE FROM 10.00PM till 11.00AM. Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on her soul. Our Lady of Lourdes intercede for her.

TOLAND, Gerald (Gerry) - 8th January 2018, suddenly at R.V.H., Belfast, Gerald (Gerry), beloved husband of Sandra, loving father of Stephen, Martin, Jackie and Mark, a loving grandfather to Jodie, Kayla, Caolan, Jack, Emily, Sophia and Kaleb, a dear brother to all his brothers and sisters. Funeral leaving his home, 4 Rafferty Close, Ballymagroarty on Thursday, 11th inst. at 11:30AM to St. Columba's Church, Longtower for requiem mass at 12:00 noon. Interment afterwards in the city cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on his soul, Our Lady of Lourdes, intercede for him. St. Padre Pio, intercede for him.

BARRON (née Devine), Eileen - 9th January 2018, peacefully at Altnagelvin Hospital, beloved wife of the Late Phil, loving mother to Mary and Phillip, a loving Grandmother and Great-grandmother. Funeral leaving her home, 124 Racecourse Road on Thursday, 11th inst. at 10:50AM to St. Brigid's Church, Carnhill for Requiem Mass at 11:30AM. Interment afterwards in the City cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have, mercy on her soul. Our Lady of Lourdes, intercede for her.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

The owners of a dog which has been missing since last month have offered a reward for any information which leads to her return.

Millie (pictured), the female cocker spaniel, went missing from the Glenshane/ Castledawson area on Monday, December 11.

Millie’s owners are very keen to have her returned and would appeal for anyone with any information or sightings of her to get in touch.

A reward has been offered.

Contact 07734759847.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

Retail NI has welcomed the appointment of Karen Bradley as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and has urged her to hit the ground running to restore devolution.

The business group also wished James Brokenshire a speedy recovery and all the very best for the future.

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: “On behalf of Retail NI, I would like to wish James Brokenshire a speedy recovery and every success for the future”

“Karen Bradley must hit the ground running in an renewed effort to restore devolution and avoid direct rule. Her appointment will hopefully give new momentum to an intensive talks process which leads to the Executive being re-established”

“Our members are beyond frustration at the continuing political deadlock and lack of a Government. We will never be able to fully move our economy forward while we have this level of political instability”

“Karen Bradley has a incredibly tough role over the next few months and wish her well in her efforts. We look forward to working her”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

JIM Noonan was a giant of the ring, a legend of local boxing and king of the microphone and he will be honoured on Saturday night (January 13th).

“He was the founding member of Draperstown Boxing club which he run for more than forty years.”

The members of Swatragh boxing club, St John’s ABC, are running a boxing show in Ballinascreen GAC (7.30) in his memory.

“Jim was the president of St John’s club and Ulster secretary for many years,” explained Chairman Ciaran Quinn.

“He was the founding member of Draperstown Boxing club which he run for more than forty years.”

The first bell goes at 8.00 on Saturday night.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney has called for action after another night of disruption in the city as reckless drivers caused havoc on the Skeoge link road.

Councillor Tierney said: “Residents near the Skeoge link road are no strangers to the reckless driving of careless street racers in the area.

“Last night again, I received reports from local people about cars driving into oncoming vehicles and performing hand brake turns.

“It just isn’t acceptable and the people involved need to catch themselves on.

“This requires a policing response. I have been in touch with the neighbourhood policing team and I’ll continue to press for action until this is resolved.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

The DUP blocked a proposal to utilise funds for charitable causes which have still not been released, Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has said.

The Foyle MLA was speaking after it emerged that millions from dormant bank accounts have still not been allocated despite being earmarked for charities under a government scheme.

Raymond McCartney  said: “It is my understanding that the Sinn Féin Finance Minister tabled a paper for an Executive meeting in December 2016 seeking agreement on a scheme for utilising over £7m in dormant funds.

“The proposal provided for £4.5m to support social investment, £1.5m for the Arts and £1m for tackling homelessness.

“The paper was cleared by the Deputy First Minister to go on to the Executive agenda but it was not cleared by the First Minister and consequently did not make it on to the final Executive agenda.

“Therefore, it is quite extraordinary for the DUP to now be blaming the failure to release these funds on anyone but themselves.”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

KEVIN MAGEE gets warmed up for this week's home-made music festival at the Forum by getting a few of the main players to share their war stories.

Homegrown ’18 is on this Friday in the Millennium Forum, now in its sixth year, it was the first live gig of the City of Culture in 2013 and has grown annually to become the start-off point for the year’s local entertainment.

Steven McCool, the lovely lead singer and bassist from Ports filled me in on the craic. You have been quiet, too quiet, what’s been happening? “We're all fried up from touring all year and used up all our kudos points from our girlfriends. Steadily building them again for next year”.

There’s been a lot of hype surrounding the band from day one, how did the weight of expectation affect you?  “We were expecting an a la carte but got a taximan special. Not that that's a bad thing. It's perked us up for Album 2”.

Two members of the band are from Top of the Hill, is that what makes you so good? “Ha-ha. It's amazing what boys from Top of the hill will do for a Doherty’s bap”.

Did you drop the stroke from the O because you realised it was pronounced PURTS? “I nearly had a stroke when when I found out”.

Paddy Enchilada-less

Paddy Nash is one of the finest musicians the town has produced, he fills his time in by teaching his craft to young musicians, taking music to people who otherwise wouldn’t get a chance, bakes and occasionally predicts football results. Last year he released his fourth album.

Was shedding a few enchiladas a gamble? Did it pay off? “I didn’t see it as a gamble at all. I had a load of songs that didn’t fit the Enchiladas vibe and I also felt the need for a different challenge after three band albums. I think my song writing has improved on this album and I’ve definitely reached a wider audience. It’s also easier to do shows as a solo act or a two- or three- piece. That said I do miss the big sound, madness and camaraderie of the Enchiladas”

Which is more rewarding, playing with Billy Bragg or massive gig in your back yard? “They’re both completely different experiences. When I’m touring with Billy I’m playing to his audience so winning them over is always a challenge and while it’s not always easy I think I do ok. There’s always a feeling when playing a Homegrown gig that the crowd is already on your side and willing you to do well and that’s lovely. Both equally rewarding in different ways I guess”

You’ve gotten around promoting Gate Fever in 2017, what have you got planned this year? “Gate Fever only came out in June and I like to give an album a good 12 months to breathe so I’m organising more shows North, South, East and West to continue promoting it. There has been really good interest in Europe for this album so Diane and I are hatching something to build on this which involves us heading away for a month later this year in the camper to gig. We intend to document the experience in film too.  Apart from that, Paul Casey and I have been threatening collaboration for a few years now. We’ve a couple of songs in the bag and I think we have the makings of a good rocking country album, we could be the next Kenny & Dolly!”

And….Did you and Tonto ever find the Lone Ranger? “Of course we did. They’re both coming to Homegrown.”

The Anderson factor

Paul Casey, currently on his sixth solo album, has gained major recognition not only as a musician, touring with Chris Rea but for recording, mixing and producing albums…notably mixing “On the Road” by Christy Moore.

Gigs take a lot of work to organise, how does a huge gig like this set you up for the year? “It proves to me that we here in Derry love to promote our own which is a brilliant thing. There is such music and diversity that comes from Derry that it should be celebrated every once in a while”.

When you have ‘Thanks for Letting Me Crash’ in your repertoire, is it harder to get attention to the new songs? “The song that kinda put me on the map here in Northern Ireland was 'Big World'. As soon as I finished it I gave Gerry Anderson a copy first. He loved it so much he played it twice that day and continued to play it then on! I never thought he'd play it as much because the song is nearly six minutes long and it doesn't have a chorus. Gerry was essential for all of us upcoming/unsigned local bands, he got us heard to a big audience and opened many doors for us all. He is truly missed.”

What’re the plans for this year? “Currently I'm recording a brand new album for release in Spring '18. I built a recording studio a few years back to be able to constantly write and record although the studio has now taken on a little life of its own as I get to work on some other albums. I recorded Paddy Nash's solo album here and just recently I was involved in mixing the brand new Christy Moore album 'On the Road' here! I always feel lucky to still be able to make a living from music and you never know what the next job will be."

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

By Ursula Duddy

The streets of the city were like a ghost-town on Thursday night as every self-respecting Derry man, woman, child and beast gathered around their TV sets to watch the first airing of Derry Girls.

The Channel 4 comedy set in 1990s Derry was written by local talent, Lisa McGee, who has penned previous sit coms, London Irish on Channel 4 and Six Degrees One.

The action focuses on a group of Derry schoolgirls and the hilarious scrapes they get themselves into set against the backdrop of the Troubles. The first episode aired last Thursday night at 10pm on Channel 4.

However, despite being set in the conflict, it is the girls’ jokes and japes that shine through giving our neighbors across the water a tantalising taste of typical Derry humour in the first episode, leaving them longing for more.

The Derry News spoke to politicians, a principal and a producer to see what they thought of the Derry Girls first saunter onto our screens.

'Class, hi!' - Derry Girl MP

Derry girl and local Sinn Féin MP, Elisha McCallion, said she felt the show had portrayed the Derry sense of humour and pride in the city perfectly.

“I really enjoyed the first episode although it is certainly worrying for me as someone who still looks upon themselves as a young woman to start feeling nostalgic about the early 1990s!” she said.

“It captured some of the Derry humour and certainly the affection that we Derry ones have for our city – ‘Derry is class, hi’!

“It was also wonderful to see local talent and the backdrop of Derry being showcased on such a big stage.

“I'm certainly looking forward to the next episode!”

Proud principal

Martine Mulhern is the proud principal of St Cecilia’s College where two stars of the show were former pupils; Sorcha Jackson who plays central character, Erin, and Jamie-Lee O’Donnell who stole many laughs with her ballsy portrayal of Michelle.

Although born in Belfast, Mrs Mulhern is an honorary Derry girl herself having been raised here most of her life. She gave her take on the new home-grown Channel 4 show.

“I loved it bar the language, I don’t remember it being that bad back then or now but I’m a bit of a prude when it comes to bad language and it’s a comedy, so it is what it is!” she laughed.

“It really did show the situations you got yourselves into, the things you talked about and the reality of your lives against the backdrop of the insanity that was going on in the background with the Troubles.

“That line ‘I want to be an individual but I don’t want to be an individual on my own’ was brilliant. That’s not just the 90s generation that’s still happening with teenagers today. Back then it might have been denim jackets, another time it might be a hair style or colour or shoes or heels – it really caught a lot of things about the reality of school life.

“I particularly like the different characters within that one friendship group. The fact that they were all so different but still friends and allowed to be themselves and maintain that friendship.

“These girls were actually based on Lisa’s real friend group and, it’s true, the friends you make in teenage years last because they’ve seen the best and the worst of you.

“I’m really proud that two past pupils, Sorcha Jackson and Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, star in a national show and just watching them with those big hoop earrings...I had those earrings! I was very good growing up but I always had the biggest, hoopiest earrings and only took them off when I started teaching!

“I hope the dynamics of the friendship group and the comic parts allow the show to travel. The teenage angst is there and, taking away the backdrop of the Troubles, it reflects teenage life anywhere in the UK.

“The show is quirky and it’s quirky things like this that catch on. The reaction here has been amazing and sometimes Derry people are very hard on themselves  but it’s lovely to see the positivity for Lisa and for the show.

“The half hour watching it really flew in and I got a kick out of it. I saw so many girls sharing their school photos on social media and there’s a real sense of camaraderie with the Derry girls, especially from women of that age that grew up then.

“It’s definitely a thumbs up from me and I’ll definitely be watching again.”

'Leave our roadsigns alone' - Gregory

East Derry’s DUP MP Gregory Campbell gave a mostly positive review of the show but was sure to get in a few quips about the longstanding dispute over the city’s true name.

“Many people (especially Londonderry residents) were 'feard we wud be wrecked' if it featured a group of Nadine Coyle sound-alikes, without the half-American add on...fears proved unfounded,” he said.

“Negatives were the opening scene with vandals trying to obliterate the 'London' from a 'Londonderry' road sign. Don't know why that had to set the scene - and the all-pervasive swearing.

“I know it follows in the line of gritty, dark, urban Channel 4 comedies, and people will say it was the way it was in the 1990s but it didn't need it.

“Some of the parts weren't played well; the smaller blonde girl had a permanently pained expression for no apparent reason.

“The positives were there some hilarious one-liners. The Michelle character clearly relished the role with the bullying scene on the bus and the waiting outside the Principal’s office afterwards.”

Mr Campbell said that, while he believes the show will be a massive hit locally, he just hopes it travels well.

“Will it suffer the same fate of our late and much-loved BBC broadcaster, Gerry Anderson, who on moving to Radio 4 found that English audiences didn't 'get' his accent or his take on life?

“Loved locally but further afield, more difficult. I think it could become cult viewing for NI audiences if the first episode is anything to go by.

“It will probably be a case of ' Ah canny wait for the next episode, hi', followed by, 'Have ye heard if they're makin’ anoller series yet?'”

'All credit to Lisa McGee' - Mark H

Mark H Durkan, SDLP Foyle MLA, gave Derry Girls a glowing review and praised the home-grown writer and actresses for their work in showing a wider audience just how great it is to be from the Maiden City.

“I was impressed, it was really good,” he said.

“It’s early days and it’s the first series so we will of the programme and we will see the characters develop and become more familiar and grow on people even more. Last night was just a taster so we will see what there is to come.

“I saw a lot of feedback on social media and there were mixed views, Derry people engaged more, but I’m really keen to see the reaction of audiences elsewhere.

“My wife, Anne, is not from Derry and I was torturing her throughout saying, ‘What do you think about that?’

“It’s a tremendous opportunity for marketing to be on primetime Channel 4 with a show based in this city. Another upside is that other writers and artists from within this city can use this as a great platform.

“Plenty of other cities and towns would give their right arm for the opportunity for such promotion. All credit to the show’s writer and creator, Lisa McGee; I’m sure it must have been an extremely difficult pitch to a British TV station to say, ‘This is where I came from and this is how it was’. But she obviously did a fantastic job in that regard and they enjoyed it.”

Mr Durkan said that he was tentative watching the first half of the show as he hoped that it would do the city proud and not paint us in a cringe-worthy light.

“It reminded me of watching a party political broadcast, it’s difficult to watch objectively, that’s why our party’s last few were my favourite...because I wasn’t in them,” he laughed.

“Derry’s where I’m from, it’s where I’m proud of and very defensive of too so I was nervous watching the first half so I would like to watch it again also because you get distracted recognising different places in Derry!”

He added: “My praise couldn’t be stronger for the show’s creator and the fact that she managed to pitch the show to Channel 4 for such a prominent primetime slot.

“I found it very enjoyable and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.”

'Ballsy and witty' -  Blame Game producer

Jackie Hamilton, Derry ‘boy’ and former pop star with Derry rock band, The Moondogs, is today the producer of the BBCNI comedy The Blame Game, with his own company, Moondog Productions.

The final word goes to Mr Hamilton, speaking as a native of the city and a man who knows a thing or two about comedy, who gave Derry Girls a resounding seal of approval.

“I thought it was great; it was very funny and quite refreshing,” he said.

“In terms of comedy for different age groups and comedy as a narrative space, the Troubles was a background but front and centre was these handful of teenage girls and that was funny and different.

“It was quite authentic too in its use of words, it didn’t enter into TV land. I was trying to watch it as a punter without overanalysing it but when you’re sitting over 70 miles away watching something about the place you know and love, where you grew up...I had to resist the urge to watch it from behind the sofa!

“We can say what we want about Derry but if anyone else says anything bad we will jump straight on them!”

“I don’t know Lisa McGee but she has really done a great job. We’ve only seen the first episode so we will have to wait to see the whole thing in the round but as a first outing it was very funny.

“It hit the mark and was very much talking from a local place but to a wider audience. You have to ask is it funny and do the jokes work and I think they do.

“Channel 4 is very much viewed by a younger audience and they are bolder and very different from other UK channels. It’s not necessarily just aimed at younger people but its centre of gravity will be defined by the late 20 to 30-somethings.

“Channel 4 has a clear remit of ballsy, witty stuff for a younger audience, not youth or teens, but they do things in a different way and as long as Derry Girls and Lisa keep delivering plenty of jokes and, a key part of it, authenticity, then it should definitely resonate particularly with North England and Scotland.

“Social media plays a big part too, what we need to see are 30-somethings not from Derry sharing it with each other.

“I hope it does work. The acting was good too and the young actresses gave a good account of themselves.

“It generally was a good show and I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of it. The key word is authenticity, if she can keep that intact I hope to see a second series, but it is the audience beyond here that will define the future of it. Long may it last.”

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

Roy Arbuckle, Anne Tracey, David J Bell, Michael Corey and Maura Johnston present ‘Songs and Poems for the Soul’ at The Heaney Homeplace, Bellaghy on Saturday, January 13 from 2.00pm to 3.30pm

Tickets for this exciting event are £5 and are available from the Seamus Heaney Homeplace.

About the artists….

David J Bell, a native of Lisburn, now lives and works in Desertcreat. David is an experienced guitar soloist, accompanist and studio player whose approach is ‘to support the song.’ Co-writing with Oonagh Derby, David has composed original material for local festivals marking the Flight of the Earls and the story of Patrick Donnelly, the Bard of Armagh.

Roy Arbuckle, will be fondly remembered by the people of South Derry from his days with folk band ‘Chaff.’ He later moved to North America and toured extensively with ‘Fiddlers Elbow’ and then ‘The Rambling Boys of Pleasure.’
Roy became involved with many community arts and community development projects around the North West of Ireland. He founded the internationally known ‘Different Drums of Ireland’ in 1991. In 1999 ‘Different Drums’ played at the White House for then then President, Bill Clinton.

Maura Johnston, is the well-known Moneymore writer whose poetry brings the landscape of her native South Derry alive. Maura has recorded for BBC radio and her work has appeared in Fortnight, The Honest Ulsterman, The Sunday Tribune and the Belfast Review. She is a recent recipient of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Award to support the development of her second collection of poems.

Anne Tracey (nee Corey) grew up in a musical household. Her father, Francie, was a renowned singer and storyteller. Anne’s great uncle Johnny penned well-known songs including ‘The Rose of Moneymore’ and ‘The Blackberry Fair’ (both songs often sung by her late father). Anne’s repertoire is both contemporary and traditional. She recently recorded the beautiful and reflecting ‘Songs for the Soul’ CD with Roy Arbuckle. Some of the songs from the CD will be included in the afternoon at Homeplace – an event that sets out to explore the emotional pull of home, identity and place.

Michael Corey, was lead singer with the Northern Swing Big Band, a popular 16-piece band that entertained audiences the length and breadth of Ireland. Michael’s repertoire now includes songs from artists as diverse as Frank Sinatra, James Taylor and Leonard Cohen. Michael also draws on the rich family tradition of music and song and is renowned for his beautiful rendition of the poignant song of emigration ‘Slieve Gallion Braes’, which he will sing at Heaney Homeplace this coming Saturday.

The artists who will perform at the event are pictured above. L to R, David J Bell; Roy Arbuckle; Maura Johnston: Anne Tracey and Michael Corey.

For more information or to book your tickets for 'Songs and Poems for the Soul’ call Seamus HomePlace on 028 7938 7444 or visit www.seamusheaneyhome.com

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

BANK OF IRELAND DR McKENNA CUP
Derry 1-14 Down 2-10
Michael McMullan at Celtic Park

WHEN Derry and the Dr McKenna Cup combine, there always seems to be drama.  Niall Toner’s goal with six minutes remaining grabbed an unlikely victory to maintain Damian McErlain's winning start as senior manager.

When Shay Millar gave up possession, Derry took off on the attack and it was Toner who squeezed his shot through a mass of bodies to the net.

It was the first time since Peter Hagan’s early free that the home side were ahead – putting the Oakleafers in the box seat for semi-final qualification following Armagh’s draw with UU.

Derry will travel to the Athletic Grounds for the refixed game but look set to be without Conor McCluskey, who was carried off.

In the opening quarter, Derry were open and Eamon Burns' men were able to pop passes into their attack.  Shay Millar, Conor Dornan and Kevin McKernan were the influential trio.

McKernan and Dornan both scored goals as Down went into a commanding lead, but points from Peter Hagan, Enda Lynn and Ciaran McFaul restored Derry into the game.

Half-time: Down 2-7 Derry 0-8.

The second-half followed a different path entirely.  Down were held to just a paltry three points as Derry dominated for long periods, as they had a more defined shape.

In the thick fog, passages of free flowing play were few and mistakes were aplenty but it was Derry who began to dictate the flow of the game.

Enda Lynn scored two early points in the second-half and with Michael Bateson sitting back as a stopper at centre-back, it gave Down more to think about.

Despite Derry being the dominant team, Down were able to hold on to their lead.  James Kielt and Patrick Kearney added points when introduced from the bench.

The game still needed a spark.  Something different.  And it was Niall Toner who provided it.  The Lavey man went on an incisive burst inside the Down rear-guard he somehow found the net to snatch victory for Derry.

Derry’s next game is Sunday’s trip to Armagh (2.00).  The semi-final is fixed for next Wednesday (January 17) – with the final down for Sunday, January 21.

MATCH STATS:

DERRY: Oran Hartin, Conor McCluskey, Liam McGoldrick, Ruairi Mooney, Paddy Coney, Michael McEvoy, Jordan Curran, Conor McAtamney, Jack Doherty, Peter Hagan (0-2f), Ciaran McFaul (0-1), Conor Doherty, Enda Lynn (0-6, 2f), Mark Lynch (0-3, 2f), Niall Toner (1-0).
SUBS: Michael Bateson for J Curran (HT), Patrick Kearney (0-1) for C McCluskey (INJ 41), James Kielt (0-1f) for M Lynch (56), Feargal Higgins for P Hagan (59).

DOWN: Shane Harrison, Colm Flanagan, Gerard McGovern, Brendan McArdle, Anthony Doherty (0-1f), Niall McParland, Caolan Mooney (0-1), Aaron Morgan (0-1), Conor Poland, Shay Millar (0-3), Kevin McKernan (1-2), Conor Francis, Ronan Millar (0-1f), Sean Dornan (1-0), James Guinness.
SUBS: Barry O’Hagan for C Francis (40), Darragh O’Hanlon (0-1f) for J Guinness (51), Connaire Harrison for C Mooney (57), Shay Murnin for S Dornan (58) Shane Murray for R Millar (65), Johnny Flynn for N McParland (BC 46).

REF: Anthony Marron (Monaghan).

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.

DOHERTY, Moya - 10th January 2018, beloved wife of the late Danny, loving mother of Rosie, Jamsey, Martin, Paul, Damien, Peter and the late Patrick and Michelle and a dearly loved grandmother. Funeral from her home, 91 Stradowen Drive, Strathfoyle, on Friday at 10.30 am for 11 o’clock Requiem Mass in St. Oliver Plunkett’s Church, Strathfoyle. Interment afterwards in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ardmore. Queen of the most Holy Rosary Pray for Her.

QUIGLEY, Catherine - 9th January 2018, loving mother of Colm, Kerry and Paula and a dearly loved grandmother. Funeral from her daughter’s home, 21 Ferndale Road, on Saturday 10 am for 10.30 am Requiem Mass in St. Joseph's Church, Galliagh. Interment afterwards in the City cemetery. Queen of the Most Holy Rosary pray for her.

TAOL, Seamus - (Moneyglass) 8th January 2018 Seamus R.I.P. beloved husband of Mary and loving father of Clare (McCann), Martin, Aileen (McWilliams), dear brother of Lizzie, Annie and the late Mary, Harry, Barney, Chris and John. Funeral from his home 66 Roguery Road on Friday 12th January at 10.15am for 11.00am Requiem Mass in Church of the Sacred Heart Cargin, interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul. Deeply regretted by his wife, son, daughters daughter in law Sharon, sons in law Damian, Darren grandchildren, sisters, nephews, nieces and extended family circle. Family flowers only, donations in lieu if so desired to Paediatrics Diabetes Fund Antrim Hospital c/o the family.

MULLAN (née Doherty), Mary Catherine - Ballerin and formerly Gortnanmoyagh 9th January 2018. Peacefully surrounded by her loving family Mary Catherine R.I.P. beloved partner of James Higgins and loving sister of Susan, Eileen, Carmel, Pat, Kathleen, Malachy, Joe and late Frank and John. Funeral from her late residence, 54 Belraugh Road, on Friday at 10:15am for 11 o’clock Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballerin. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. St. Pio pray for her. Deeply regretted by her entire family circle.

SKINNER, David James (D.J.) - 9th January 2018 (suddenly), 158 Glebe Avenue, Coleraine, precious son of Jennifer and Simon, devoted and loving brother of Hope and Nevaeh and a much loved grandson, nephew and cousin. Service in his home on Saturday at 11.00am followed by interment in Coleraine Cemetery. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu if desired for a charity of the family's choice. (Please make cheques payable to Mrs Mona Murdock) c/o 31 Bushmills Road, Coleraine. Very deeply regretted and sorely missed by his loving family and entire family circle.

If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.