The inquest findings on the death of Derry mother-of-six shot dead by a British Soldier have been adjourned until next month.

Kathleen Thompson, 47, was shot dead in the back garden at her Rathlin Drive home in Creggan by a bullet fired by a British soldier on November 6, 1971.

Around midnight on the night Mrs Thompson was shot dead, members of the Royal Green Jacket Regiment carried out a raid on a house in Rathlin Drive.

Shortly after the raid Mrs Thompson was found dead in her garden, where she had been discovered by her husband, Patrick, and daughter, Minty, who was 12-years-old at the time. Mrs Thompson had been killed by a high velocity bullet that had struck her in the chest.

The inquest concluded in March for Judge Sandra Crawford to consider the evidence and produce her findings.

However, the inquest findings, which were to be delivered in June, have been adjourned again until October 2.

Pictured above: Kathleen Thompson and her husband, Patrick with their six children

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The PSNI have asked people  to protect their properties against opportunist burglars after six burglaries in the space of six days.

Police have confirmed there have been six burglaries at homes in the city side and Waterside areas between Thursday, August 30 and yesterday, Tuesday, September 4.

Areas where homes have been targeted include Messines Park, Farmhill and Woodbrook in the city side, and Summer Meadows Manor and Woodburn Park in the Waterside.

Chief Inspector Jonny Hunter said:  “We believe these burglaries are linked at this time. In each case, the burglar/s have used the same method to force entry to homes, by smashing a window or a door to get inside.

“Once inside they’ve ransacked the property and taken items they can flee with easily, such as cash and jewellery. Heavier, bulkier items such as television sets have been left behind. The burglar/s want to get in and out of the property as quickly as possible.

“In one of the burglaries reported to us at a house in the Farmhill area in the city side, sometime between 5.30pm on Saturday, 1 September and 12.50am on Sunday, 2 September the property was broken into and a sum of cash and a wedding ring and engagement ring were stolen.

“We know how upsetting it is for homeowners to have their private space violated in this fashion. Your home is a place where you deserve to feel safe and where your possessions should be protected.

“We are doing all we can to tackle this issue and have increased our patrols in the areas targeted. However, we also need the public’s help. For example, if you see an unusual vehicle parked or travelling on a road in your area, or strangers calling at houses, take a note of the vehicle registration number and a description of any vehicles and pass that information on to us.

“We also want you to look out for your neighbours. If you see someone hanging around their property, acting suspiciously, please tell us. Also, for residents in well-established residential areas, if you’re going on holiday tell your neighbours so they can keep an eye out for any strange callers to your home, or arrange for someone to check your property while you're gone.

“I also want to appeal to people to check your locks, not only on your house but on any outbuildings, garages and sheds in order to safeguard valuable equipment.

"Make sure your home is secure. Lock doors and windows. Never leave a garage or garden shed unlocked. Keep your valuables stored away safely, and never leave them where they can be seen through windows.

“It is extremely important you report any type of activity that raises your suspicions. It’s a good way to alert us so we can investigate, and it will also help deter criminals and reduce crime in your area.

“If you would like further advice on home security you can contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on 101.”

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A young Derry boy’s colourful artwork has been selected from almost 1,000 entries to represent Northern Ireland in the 2018 BIC® KIDS Young Artist Award.

Holy Child Primary School pupil, Liam Dornan, aged eight, has been crowned the regional finalist for Northern Ireland much to the delight of his proud mum, Senga.

His fabulous wildlife scene depicts creatures of land, sea and sky and has been showcased on billboards throughout the North.

There were almost 1,000 entries from five to 11-year-olds years throughout the UK and the island of Ireland for this year’s campaign but Liam’s colourful picture stood out to judges and he was chosen as a regional finalist.

Liam’s entry has been put forward for a public vote between the other regional finalists up until Sunday, September 9, so the young artist is counting on some local support to help him clinch the top spot.

Illustrator Phil Corbett, who sat on the judging panel for this year’s campaign, said: “We’re thrilled to announce Liam as our regional finalist for Northern Ireland.

“There’s so much going on in his wildlife scene and we love the detail he’s used, down to a snake eating a watermelon slice at the top of the tree.

“Great work!

“We hope the billboards being created with Liam’s artwork inspire him to keep on drawing – he certainly has a natural talent for it which we hope he continues to explore. We would encourage the people of Northern Ireland to get behind Liam and cast their vote for this young creative between 27th August and 9th September.”

The BIC® KIDS Young Artist Award rewards creativity by taking children’s drawings from the fridge door on to massive public billboards returned in July this year.

Regional finalists were chosen via an expert judging panel made up of creatives from the marketing, publishing and illustration industries and they will have their artworks used on 71 billboards across the UK and Republic of Ireland between August 27 and September 9.

Liam’s artwork is up against 13 others in the public vote. The public vote is now open at BICKIDS.com/uk/youngartist to decide the overall champion.

If the young Derry lad wins, his masterpiece will be used on a further 26 billboards from late September.

Be sure to support local lad, Liam, and get voting for him down to a fine art!

Pictured above: The impressive young Derry artist, Liam, aged 8, with his proud mum, Senga.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

The Consumer Council is urging natural gas customers in Derry to consider ways to save on their household energy bills, following the announcement that Firmus Energy is to increase gas prices by 12% in the area from 1 October 2018.

This is a further blow for consumers following recent electricity tariff increases by the three largest electricity suppliers in Northern Ireland.

Speaking about the price increase, Richard Williams, Head of Energy Policy at The Consumer Council, said: “This is unwelcome news for Firmus Energy customers, following a 6.8% increase in the Ten Towns area earlier this year. However, we are aware the main driver is the significant rise in global gas costs since the tariff was last set in April.

“From 1 October, the annual bill for a typical Firmus Energy customer in Ten Towns will increase by £72 a year to £666.

“Firmus Energy is the sole supplier of gas in the Ten Towns. We would like to see other gas licence holders enter the market so that consumers there can benefit from competition. While this is not currently as option, customers may be able to save money by implementing simple energy efficiency measures.

For more information on energy efficiency measures, download The Consumer Council’s ‘Switch On: A Guide for Home Energy Users’ from www.consumercouncil.org.uk or call Freephone 0800 121 6022 for a copy.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

TURNER, Margaret Ann (Anna) 4th September. Suddenly at Altnagelvin Hospital. Beloved wife of the late Bertie. Devoted mum of Gail. Loving Granny to Rachael and Ross. Funeral service in her late home 19 Durham Park on Friday 7th September at 12 noon followed by burial in Altnagelvin Cemetery. House private. Donations if desired to All Saints Clooney. Deeply regretted by her loving family circle. Time slips past but memories last.

HOOPER, September 5th 2018, peacefully at his own home, Walter Leonard Cecil, 47 Greystone Road Limavady. much loved husband of the late Rita, loving father of Rebecca, Deanna, Audrey, dear father in law of Victory McCurry. James Wilson and the late James Frew, also a devoted grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral from his late home on Friday at 1.15pm for servive in Christ Church Limavady at 2pm (dress code not necessarily dark as Walter loved colour) followed by internment in adjoining church yard. Donations if desired to foyle hospice c/o Browns funeral directors 25 Church Street, Limavady. Will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his entire family circle.

O'NEILL, Julia (Phyllis), 5th September 2018 beloved wife of the late George, loving mother of Maura, Nuala, Aidan, Paula and Anne and a much loved grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral from her home, 16 Camellia Court, Gobnascale on Friday at 1.30 pm for 2 o’clock Requiem Mass in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Trench Road. Interment afterwards in St Mary’s Cemetery, Ardmore. Queen of the Most Holy Rosary pray for her.

CRAWFORD (née Bates), September 4, 2018, (peacefully) at Moneymore Care Home, Agnes (aged 96), late of 90 Rainey Street, Magherafelt, much loved wife of the late Samuel, loving and devoted mother of Joy, Gillian, Jennifer, Linda and David, dear mother-in-law of Milne, also a much loved grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother and dear sister of Ray and Annie. House private. Funeral service on Friday, September 7 at 1.00pm in Woodschapel Parish Church, followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if desired, for Action on Hearing Loss, payable to Garvin’s Funeral Service (Donations A/c), 15 Ballyronan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6BP. Lovingly remembered by the entire Family Circle.

SHAW (Née Dorrity), Lavey 5th September 2018 Kathleen R.I.P. peacefully at her home. Beloved wife of the late John Joe and loving mother of John Bernard, Jim, Kieran, Noreen Graham, Dolores Kelly, Dermot, Kevin, Roisin and Fergal, much loved sister of Willie and Maurice and the late Rosemary Shivers, Sean, Bridie Donnelly, Sadie, Margaret McCrystal and Kevin. Funeral from her home 37 Quarry Rd, Knockloughrim BT45 8NS on Saturday 8th at 10.15am for 11am requiem Mass in St Mary’s church Bellaghy. Interment afterwards in St Mary’s cemetery Lavey. No Flowers Please. Donations in lieu of Marie Currie if desired c/o of the family. Deeply regretted by sorrowing sons, daughters, brothers, sons in law, daughters in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister in law Mary, nephews, nieces and family circle.

ROONEY (Née Chambers), Maghera 5th September 2018. Mary Ellen R.I.P. peacefully at Antrim Area hospital. Beloved wife of the late Malachy and devoted mother of Cynthia Stewart and the late Christopher. Funeral From her late residence 10 Tirkane Court BT46 5JD tomorrow Friday at 10.20am for 11am requiem mass in St Patrick’s church Glen. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on her soul. Deeply regretted by her sorrowing daughter, son in law Harry, grandchildren Kerry-Ynne and Carly, great granddaughter Maisie, brothers in law, nephews, nieces and family circle.

BRYCE (née McGuinness), Patricia, 5th September 2018. Peacefully At Her Home, 8 Belvedere Park Foyle Springs, Derry, Surrounded By Her Loving Family. Loving Mother Of Sheila, Kathleen, Anne, Una, Roisin, Patricia, Colette, Daniel And The Late Maeve, Devoted Grandmother Of Roisin, Caoimhe, Deirdre, Connor, Micheal, Aonghas, Luke, Daniel, Aine, Aoife And Great Grandmother Of Fiachra And A Dear And Loving Sister. Funeral Leaving Her Home On Saturday The 8th. Inst. At 9:20A.M. To St. Eugene's Cathedral, For Requiem Mass At 10:00A.M. Interment Afterwards In The City Cemetery, Derry. Sacred Heart Of Jesus Pray For Her. Our Lady Queen Of The Universe Pray For Her. St. Pio 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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A 54-year-old man has appeared at Derry Magistrates Court charged with a series of historical sex offences.

The man who cannot be named to protect the identity of the alleged injured party appeared at a preliminary enquiry at Derry Magistrate's Court today.

He was charged with eleven counts of indecent assault on a female on dates between August 1, 1980 and October 4, 1982.

It was accepted there was a case to answer and there were no contrary submissions.

The man said he did not wish to call any witnesses or make any statement at this stage.

He was returned for trial to Derry Crown Court on bail to appear on October 2.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

THE PSNI has said it is investigating the possibility that six burglaries at homes in Derry over the past four nights may be linked.

It comes after reports of six burglaries at homes in the cityside and Waterside areas between Thursday, August 30 and yesterday, Tuesday, September 4.

Areas where homes have been targeted include Messines Park, Farmhill and Woodbrook in the city side, and Summer Meadows Manor and Woodburn Park in the Waterside.

Commenting, Chief Inspector Jonny Hunter said that in each instance, the culprits have used the same methods to gain entrance to the homes.

“We believe these burglaries are linked at this time,” he said.

“In each case, those responsible have used the same method to force entry to homes, by smashing a window or a door to get inside.

“Once inside they’ve ransacked the property and taken items they can flee with easily, such as cash and jewellery.

“Heavier, bulkier items such as television sets have been left behind. They want to get in and out of the property as quickly as possible.”

He continued that while police have stepped up patrols in the affected areas, people living in the local community could help his officers by being on the lookout for suspicious behaviour.

“We are doing all we can to tackle this issue and have increased our patrols in the areas targeted,” he said.

“However, we also need the public’s help.

“For example, if you see an unusual vehicle parked or travelling on a road in your area, or strangers calling at houses, take a note of the vehicle registration number and a description of any vehicles and pass that information on to us.”

“We also want you to look out for your neighbours. If you see someone hanging around their property, acting suspiciously, please tell us.

“Also, for residents in well-established residential areas, if you’re going on holiday tell your neighbours so they can keep an eye out for any strange callers to your home, or arrange for someone to check your property while you're gone.”

He added: “If you would like further advice on home security you can contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on 101.”

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A 42-year-old Derry man has appeared in court charged with stabbing man in the head at the weekend during an argument over a ‘drug debt’.

Martin McShane, whose address was given as Balliniska Heights in Derry appeared at the local Magistrate's Court on Monday charged with possessing an offensive weapon, namely a knife, on Saturday, September 1 and attempted GBH with intent on the same date.

A police officer in court connected McShane to the charges and opposed bail.

He told the court police received a report from a member of the public who had said they witnessed a young man with a head injury.

The defendant was observed outside a flat and the court was told that there was trail of blood lfrom the property leading out to the street.

The court heard that police then received a further report that the alleged injured party in the case was seen standing outside a shop.

An ambulance was sent for and police then spoke to the man, who said that he had been attacked by McShane.

The court was told that an armed response unit was tasked to the flat where McShane was seen, and the unit then removed the defendant and three other men from the property.

One of the man told police that the wounded man had been attempting to buy drugs and was stabbed.

McShane told police that an argument had erupted over a drug debt and that injured party had attacked him, and that he had ‘waved a knife’ at the man.

Police were unsuccessful in retrieving the weapon, the officer added.

The court heard the injured party needed two stitches to his head due to the injury.

During police interview, the defendant was said to have been abusive and aggressive.

The officer added that when arrested, McShane had been ‘given a send-off from about 50 people' in the area, as he was ‘not popular’.

Bitten ear

The court heard that he had also breached bail on a previous charge by not signing when he supposed to and this was the second incident of violence McShane had been charged with.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said his client had another address if necessary, before adding that McShane had a ‘litany of health problems’.

Mr Quigley added that on one of the older charges McShane alleged that someone had bitten his ear and that was why he had stabbed him.

The police officer said they believed that there was CCTV available of the most recent incident, but they had not had time to view it prior to the court appearance.

District Judge Barney McElholm said he would be willing to adjourn the application to allow police time to complete their inquiries.

The case was adjourned until September 7.

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A unionist MLA has hit out after Free Derry Corner in the Bogside area of the city was painted pink promote Organ Donation Week.

The landmark, which is usually painted white, has its colours changed throughout the year to promote various causes, such as being painted yellow to highlight Sarcoma Awareness.

It was painted pink earlier this week as part of a push by the Western Trust to raise awareness of organ donation.

However, Fermanagh and South Tyrone UUP MLA Rosemary Barton has described the move by the Trust as 'abhorrent', describing Free Derry Corner as 'an overt Irish Republican symbol'.

On her Twitter account, she posted: "Abhorrent of the Western Health and Social Care Trust to use an overt Irish Republican symbol and location (often used by violent republican groups) to promote Organ Donation Week.

"It seems they are promoting the Irish Republican viewpoint rather than organ donation.

"Poor decision."

The Trust posted a picture of the freshly painted Free Derry Corner on social and encouraged people to support organ donation to share their own photographs on the page.

"We're painting the town pink for organ donation week," they wrote.

"If you're passing the Free Derry Wall why not stop and take a snap.

"Share your photos to help us raise awareness to encourage people to discuss organ donation with their families."

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A Chinese national who ran a takeaway restaurant in the Waterside area of Derry has admitted sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl who worked for him.

Tian Sun Chi (47) of the Top of the Hill in Derry appeared at the local Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to the seven charges which occurred between June 1 2014 and September 2 2014.
All of the charges related to the same victim over a three month period.

The court heard the girl started work in the takeaway in May 2014 and a couple of weeks after she started Chi started touching her sexually.

On one occasion he tried to put his hand down her top but she stopped him.

On other occasions Chi touched her on various parts of her body through her clothing.

The court heard that the young woman said that Chi tried to touch her almost every time she worked.

On another occasion he tried to kiss her.

Eventually the girl told her mother and the police were informed.

On October 2014 the girl gave a statement to police and Chi was interviewed in March 2015 and denied all the allegations.

A prosecution barrister described the girl as 'vulnerable'.

Defence barrister Mr Dean Mooney said Chi was a Chinese national who came to Derry in 1996 and was married with four children.

He said Chi worked six days a week preparing food in the takeaway and the females who worked there essentially took orders.

Mr Mooney said 'of the dozens of young girls who have worked there, there have been no other complaints.'

The court was told that if Chi was imprisoned it would cause considerable hardship to the family.

Judge Philip Babington said he would pass sentence on September 11.

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DERRY councillors have accepted the recommendations of a report that will see their annual basic allowance rise by almost £300.

The move came at Tuesday afternoon’s meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee, held in the Guildhall on Tuesday afternoon.

At the meeting, the council’s Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer, Ellen Cavanagh presented a report which recommended members approve an updated Scheme of Allowances.
Local councillors can currently claim a basic allowance of £14,775 plus expenses.

Under the new recommendations the annual basic allowance will increase to £15,071 from April 2019.

An allowance of £30,113 is currently paid to the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, while an allowance of £7,528 is paid to the Deputy Mayor.

The basic allowance for incidental and consumable costs will increase from £1,040 this year to £1,061 next year.

Councillors who chair a committee are currently paid a special responsibility allowance of £8,376.02, which will increase to £8543.58 next year.

The vice chair of each committee is currently paid a special responsibility allowance £3,225 and this will also increase to £3,290.07.

An additional allowance of up to £15 per month is paid for broadband services and line rental and mileage is paid at between 13.7p and 16.4p a mile, depending on the engine size of the car.

An additional dependants' carer's allowance is also available to councillors where care of children or elderly dependant relatives is needed to enable them to carry out council duties.

The current rate is £7.83 an hour for standard care and £15.66 an hour for specialised care.

The monthly maximum for standard care payable is £408, and the monthly maximum for specialised care is £815.

Speaking after Ms Cavanagh presented her report, the independent Councillor Paul Gallagher asked “Are we voting to give ourselves a pay rise?”

The committee agreed to change the wording from approving the updated scheme of allowances to adopting the recommendations of the report.

The recommendation to accept the report was proposed by Sinn Fein councillor Maoliosa McHugh and seconded by DUP Alderman Thomas Kerrigan.

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A Derry man has lost sight in one eye following an unprovoked attack as he made his way home from a Celtic match in Glasgow at the weekend.

A group of 16 friends from Derry travelled to Scotland for the Celtic versus Rangers match on Sunday.

As they made their way to the ferry after the Old Firm Derby they decided to stop off in a popular chip shop where 48-year-old Derry man, Charles Phelan, was attacked.

He suffered broken cheekbone a broken eye socket which in turn severed his eye and fractures to his arm and hand.

The above picture shows the extent of the injuries Mr Phelan suffered to his eye.

His friend, Dermott Logan, made the trip with him and was at a hospital in Ayr yesterday where Charlie was undergoing treatment.

Sadly, a doctor has informed the group that Charlie may have permanently lost the vision in one eye as a result of his injuries.

Dermott commented: “Charlie was leaving the chip shop when he met a boy who was just hellbent on hitting a Celtic supporter.

“Normally we would change out of our clothes before we go back to the boat, but we decided not to because we weren’t planning on stopping off anywhere, all we were going to do was pick up a bag of chips.

“We stopped off in the chippy where we normally do in Girvan.

“We were in the chip shop, and as we came out Charlie was the very first person out and totally out of the blue, and unprovoked, the guy hit him.

“He was dazed and got back up again, not knowing what happened, and the boy just hit him again knocking him unconscious.”

Charlie was invited along as a guest of the supporter’s club and they travelled on a mini-bus from Derry to Larne early on Sunday morning where they made their way to, Cairnryan, Scotland.

Celtic beat Rangers 1-0 in the first Old Firm game of the new season and the group from Derry thoroughly enjoyed the match.

“We were having an absolute ball at the match itself then a couple of our guys stopped off to watch the All-Ireland final,” Dermott added.

“We stopped off in Kilmarnock and had a sing-song and a drink after the All-Ireland.”

Unconscious

It was when they travelled further down the road and stopped off for something to eat before getting the 8pm boat back to Larne where the attack took place.

A group of men were on another bus, however, Dermott doesn’t believe they were at the match as it was full of women and children.

He explained: “Charlie was literally carrying his fish and chips walking out the door when the guy came running from another bus, there was a 52-seater bus and a group of men, there must’ve been at least a dozen of them.

“The guy at the front just ran at Charlie, I happened to turn and looked out the window of the chip shop and seen him level Charlie and as I ran out the door, Charlie was getting up when he was hit again.

“He was attacked purely because he was wearing a Celtic top. One of the group responsible was wearing union jack shorts.

“I was roaring at them and the guy that hit him was goading me then.

“And as Charlie was lying flat out unconscious one of them spat on top of him and made reference to an incident in Sunderland, and said to put a Union Jack pillow underneath him.”

Extensive injuries

Detailing his friend’s injuries, he added: “They left him with a broken cheekbone, broken eye socket, severed his eye which we’ve just been told he won’t see out of again, so he has been blinded in the left eye. He’s also had his hand and arm fractured.

“He was unconscious for over a minute. We thought he had died, and they left him for dead.

“The eye consultant said he won’t know for a year if he’ll have any vision at all, it doesn’t seem likely, and in his words he said to ‘pray for a miracle’.

Charlie’s partner and family were immediately notified about the news and are anxious to have him back in Derry where they can look after him.

Medical professionals were deciding whether he would be transferred to Derry or Kilmarnock for reconstructive surgery to his face.

“There’s a specialist in Kilmarnock, so we don’t know if we’re going there or if he’ll be transferred to a hospital back home.”

Scottish police confirmed the attack and said ‘enquiries are ongoing’.

A spokesperson said: “Around 6.50 pm on Sunday 2 September 2018 police were called to a report of a 48 year-old man having been assaulted at a takeaway on Bridge Street in Girvan.

“Officers attended and the 48-year-old man was taken to Ayr Hospital to be treated for injuries to his eye.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

THE supermarket giant Lidl is inviting members of the public to attend a consultation event in Derry today where plans for a massive new store in the Waterside area will be on display.

Lidl is planning to open a second store in Derry on the Crescent Link, at an area of land close to the Kilfennan Link Roundabout.

Today’s event, which will be held at the Crescent Community and Cultural Centre in Sperrin Park, is the first of three public events being held to discuss the plans.

Today’s drop-in session will run from 11am to 1pm, with the second event to be at the same venue from 4pm to 7pm, next Thursday, September 13.

That will be followed by an event scheduled to be held in the Waterfoot Hotel on Wednesday, September 28, where the plans will be on show.

The news comes after the Derry News revealed in August of last year that Lidl was planning to replace its existing store on the Buncrana Road with a new store a short distance away at the junction of Buncrana Road and the Springtown Road.

The proposed new modern store will be located at 6 Springtown Drive, at vacant lands bounded by the Springtown Road and Buncrana Road.

The new store would be larger, have a wider range of goods and increased car parking space.

Speaking ahead of today’s event, the DUP Waterside councillor David Ramsey urged people to attend the upcoming events so that they had the ‘chance to have their say’ on the plans.

“This is a very significant development planned for a key site in the Waterside and I would urge people to go along to at least one of these events and ensure their opinions are heard,” he 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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A decision to resurface the parade ground at Ebrington Square in Derry has been delayed after local councillors and a promoter raised concerns over the move.

The planning application came before a meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee yesterday in Strabane.

It proposed removing the current ‘loose gravel’ surface which has been problematic over the years and replacing it with exposed concrete and grass.

The new-look parade ground at Ebrington Square was first opened in 2012 and formed a key part of the regeneration of the former Army Barracks in the Waterside.

Since then, the site has hosted a number of major events, including BBC Radio 1’s One Big Weekend event during the City of Culture Celebrations in 2013, and the Club MTV event last September.
The site is also used by locally based promotions for outdoor dance and music events.

However, concerns were raised about the surface of Ebrington Square during and after such large-scale events, and particularly the effect of rain on the sand-like surface.

The current owners of the site, The Executive Office considered a number of options aimed at improving the surface and it was decided that the exposed aggregate concrete was most suitable.

However, at yesterday’s meeting several councillors agreed that the current gravel surface was ‘not fit for purpose’ and SDLP councillor Gus Hastings said he would like to see the continued use of the site as a multi-purpose area for concerts.

If resurfacing meant that would not happen he said he was opposed to the idea.

Head of Planning with Council, Maura Fox, said the new surface would improve the area and make it a more suitable venue for concerts.

The meeting then heard from a local promoter, Robert Allen, who voiced his concerns that resin which would be poured over the concrete for aesthetic reasons would be a ‘problem’ and ‘it wouldn’t be fit for purpose’.

Mr Allen said he had been told that lorries wouldn’t be able to park on the exposed aggregate concrete surface which would cause difficulties for those running events.

He added that it had to be done right on this occasion, otherwise more money would be spent down the line resurfacing the area again.

Sinn Féin councillor Patricia Logue sought clarification on the matter and said she would like evidence to show that ‘heavy goods vehicles would damage that material’.

The DUP’s Hilary McClintock proposed deferring until further information could be provided and that was seconded by Cllr Hastings.

The decision was supported by the other councillors in attendance.

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The Chief Executive of the Housing Executive has admitted there have been cases of people who needed adaptations made to their property who have died before the work was carried out.

Earlier this week Clarke Bailie (pictured above) pledged to tackle the back log of people with an illness, disability or sensory impairment who are waiting for their housing requirements addressed.

Speaking at Tuesday’s monthly meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee, Mr Bailie said: “I am embarrassed to say this, but there have been cases where people who needed work done have passed away.”

The committee was informed there are currently approximately 220 ongoing complex needs cases and a further 185 which have not yet been addressed within the North area which covers Derry and Strabane.

The Chief Executive told members it was important people got a quick and sympathetic response when they presented with complex needs.

“We want to cut the time between someone identifying their need and us addressing it,” commented Mr Bailie.

Mr Bailie said The Housing Executive had successfully rolled out a pilot scheme in another area to tackle the issue and hoped to replicate it here.

“We take it one the chin we need to pull our socks up,” he added.

Speaking at the meeting Eddie Doherty, local Area Manager of the Housing Executive, said the problem was due to staffing issues and measures were being put in place to solve it.
Mr Doherty admitted “We need to do our business better.”

“I will meet with the other Regional Managers and look at how we can reduce this backlog,” he commented.

SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney told the meeting there was only one Complex Needs Officer working within the North area.

The role of a Complex Needs Officers includes carrying assessments on behalf of housing associations for people with illness, disabilities or sensory impairments who are looking for social housing.

Complex Needs Officers also meet with planners to discuss purpose-built housing solutions for people with disabilities and liaise with Occupational Therapists to help meet people’s needs.

‘Extremely worrying’

“This is an important role which seeks to help support the most vulnerable people in our society,” said Mr Tierney.

“However, with only one officer to cover this whole area, the ability to carry out all duties is extremely difficult and those with complex needs are being impacted due to lack of resources.

“I understand that there are approximately 220 existing and ongoing cases and 185 new, unassessed cases within this area and this is extremely worrying.

“Failure to address this increasing case load is, in my opinion, an inequality in the service for disabled people and the Housing Executive should act to address this and clear any back log as a matter of urgency.”

Sinn Fein Councillor Patricia Logue suggested the Housing Executive should change its policy to allow people with complex needs cases to go the District Office of their Council.

Independent Councillor Darren O’Reilly called for the policy to be changed as quickly as possible as “people are in crisis and it is causing great distress to vulnerable people.”

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

Police are urging members of the public to be vigilant following almost £30,000 stolen from three older people across Northern Ireland.

Chief Superintendent Simon Walls said: “On Wednesday morning (5th September) in North Down, police received a report of a man who taken a call stating that he was entitled to a refund and to provide bank details to receive the money. The fraudster then accessed the computer remotely and was able to remove over £10,000 from the victim’s business account. The money was sent to an address in Scotland and has been subsequently withdrawn.

“Later that day, an man in County Tyrone was targeted by online scammers who managed to access £9,000 from his bank account. The victim was told there was a problem with his internet connection and subsequently asked to access his online banking account at which stage the sum of money was removed.

“We are also investigating a report of an man in the North West who had £7,000 removed from his bank account on Wednesday afternoon.

The man was informed by the fraudsters that his internet had been hacked and needed to be fixed.

"Remote access was gained to the victim’s computer and the money was taken from his account.

“Over the course of a few hours, almost £30,000 was stolen from three vulnerable individuals. Those who carry out this criminality target communities, causing a devastating and lasting impact to their victims.

“Our advice is always be wary of any individual who cold calls you. Don’t allow any cold caller remote access to your computer.

Be especially suspicious of anyone who asks for personal details, money, banking or credit card information via the telephone. Once a scammer is in a victim’s computer and personal details are given by the victim, their online bank accounts can be accessed and significant amounts of money lost; money they may well never get back.

“Guarding your personal and banking details is essential. Never disclose them to any unauthorised person or allow anyone access to them via your computer.
“If you have received a call of this kind or are concerned by the intent of unsolicited calls, emails or letters then please report it to Action Fraud via their website www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phoning 0300 123 2040, or call police on the non-emergency number 101.

“Further advice and information can also be obtained by visiting www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni .”

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

KITSON, Cecil, 5th September 2018 beloved husband of Wilma, loving father of Diarmid, Michael and Keith and a much loved grandfather. Funeral from his home, 3 Millbrook, Eglinton on Saturday at 12.30 pm for funeral service in W J O’Brien & Son’s Funeral Home, 110 Clooney Road, Eglinton at 1 pm. Cremation will take place at a later date. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu of flowers if wished to the Foyle Hospice, 61 Culmore Road, Londonderry, BT48 8JE.

ROCKS (nee Donnelly), (Loup) 6th September 2018, Elizabeth (Beth) beloved wife of the late Eamon and loving mother of Paul, Johnny, James, Thomas, Siobhan, Rosie and Elizabeth, daughter of the late Frank and Rose Donnelly and dear sister of Francie, Patsy, Gerry and Marian. Funeral from her home 62 Ballyneil Road on Saturday 8th September at 10.15am for 11.00am Requiem Mass in Church of St. Patrick Loup. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on her soul. Deeply regretted by her sons, daughters, daughters in law, son in laws, grandchildren, brothers, sister, nephews, nieces and extended family circle.

MORRISON (nee Browne), Elizabeth (Ruth) September 6 2018 Peacefully at Altnagelvin Hospital (surrounded by her loving family, in her 84th year) much loved wife of the late Austin, loving mother of Rhoda and Thelma, dearest mother-in-law of Albert, precious grandmother of Graham, Wesley and Cheryl, an adored great-grandmother. Funeral leaving her late home 5 Foyle Crescent, Newbuildings at 1.45pm on Sunday 9th September, followed by Service of Thanksgiving for her life in Newbuildings Methodist Church at 2.00pm, burial afterwards in Mountcastle Cemetery. Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to Newbuildings Methodist Church c/o Mr. Alan Goodall, 26 Donnybrewer Road, Campsie, Londonderry, BT47 3PD. Absent from the body and present with the Lord.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

Build-A-Bear® is marking National Teddy Day on 9th September by donating 5,000 of its toys to the NSPCC including the Derry-based service centre.

A total of 5,000 bears being given as gifts to children supported by the charity’s services across the UK.

Toys have been donated to the 29 NSPCC centres throughout the UK including NSPCC’s three service centres in Northern Ireland – Foyle, Belfast and Craigavon. Many of the young people receiving the cuddly toys have suffered abuse and neglect.

Many of these young recipients of the soft brown bears are receiving bespoke treatment from NSPCC practitioners.

Toys and play are an important part of some of the services the NSPCC deliver, helping young people recover from what can be deeply traumatic experiences.

Claire Harvey, NSPCC corporate partnerships fundraiser, said: “Toys can bring comfort and a much needed smile to a young person when going through difficult times.

“We can’t wait to start distributing these bears to children across the UK who are receiving treatment at our service centres.

“We would also like to say a massive thank you to Build-A-Bear for their wonderful donation - it really is cause for cele-BEAR-ation!”

Emily Fuhrman, Manager of Foundations and Giving at Build-A-Bear, said: “At Build-A-Bear, our mission is to add a little more heart to life, and we are committed to making days a little bit brighter for children in need.

“National Teddy Bear Day is one of our favourite days, and we are honoured to partner with the NSPCC to help bring comfort to children the organisation supports—and make their days a little brighter one bear hug at a time.”

Pictured above: Leon Sweeney, Louise Frazer and Rachel Naylor look for the bear necessities amid a mountain of cuddly toys!

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A man who assaulted a doorman in Waterloo Street told police he had no recollection of the incident.

Paul O'Kane (26) of Mountfield Road in Claudy admitted assaulting the doorman on April 13 and an attempted assault on police on the same date.

The court heard CCTV operators told police the defendant had assaulted a door man.

He was chased and caught in William Street before running off again.

Police went in search of him and then O'Kane ran out in front of the police vehicle and was arrested.

While in the police vehicle O'Kane tried to bite an officer.

When asked about the incident the defendant said he could not remember anything.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said 'alcohol is the root of his problems.'

The solicitor said that his client had no idea why he got into a dispute with the door staff.

He added that the assault on police was attempted rather than successful and he told the court O'Kane had not taken a drink since.

O'Kane was sentenced to 12 months on probation.

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A 46-year-old man has been returned for trial to Derry Crown Court on a charge of causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving.

Daniel McCrory of Cornshell Fields in Derry appeared at a preliminary enquiry at the local Magistrates Court.

He faced one count of causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving in the Clarendon Street and Queen Street area of the city on October 15 last year.

It was accepted there was a case to answer and there were no contrary submissions.

McCrory said he did not wish to call any witnesses or to make any statement at this stage.

He was returned for trial to Derry Crown Court on October 9 and released on his own bail.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.