Sinn Féin Councillor Kevin Campbell has appealed for parents in the Creggan area of Derry to be on the alert for children getting caught up in the use of fireworks in the area.

He was speaking following complaints from residents about fireworks being used in the Central Drive area over the last few nights.

Councillor Kevin Campbell said: "I was contacted by residents concerned that fireworks were being set off in the vicinity of Central Drive in and around the shops and from lane ways in the same area .Fireworks have also been targeted at passing cars which could result in a serious road traffic accident or damage to vehicles.

"If one of these firework goes off in a child's hand or hits someone in the vicinity it could unfortunately result in someone being maimed or seriously injured.

"The use of legally and illegally bought fireworks and bangers can make life a misery for many people across our city and it has to stop. Fireworks should only be used in a controlled zone under the supervision of adults.

"By all means enjoy the festivities at the likes of Halloween, but be safe and do not let what should be a bit of fun turn into a nightmare, the consequences of which could be scars or disfigurement, which last a life time.

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.

As World Suicide Prevention Day approaches the Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness of the training opportunities available in mental and emotional well-being and suicide prevention.

Almost 15,000 participants received PHA-funded training in mental and emotional well-being and suicide prevention last year.

The PHA commissions a range of training programmes which are delivered across Northern Ireland, which range from raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing to providing advice on crisis intervention.

“Improving mental health and reducing the prevalence of suicide are very important issues for the Public Health Agency, so we are working with local communities and organisations across Northern Ireland to deliver training and education to make a real difference,” said Helen Gibson, Regional Co-ordinator for Mental and Emotional Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention Training with PHA.

“These courses aim to increase understanding of mental health, promote positive self-help strategies and raise awareness of the many available sources of help and support. They also enable people to feel able to raise the topic of mental health, an issue that still carries a significant stigma in our community

“Courses are also available to help build knowledge about the signs and symptoms of poor mental health. Being able to ‘sign post’ to appropriate help and support, as well as supporting people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts, can literally provide life-saving help to someone in crisis.”

The Mental and Emotional Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention Monitoring Report shows that between April 2017 and March 2018, 14,932 participants attended and completed their training in a chosen mental health and or suicide prevention area.

Courses supported by the PHA include Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Mental Health First Aid NI (MHFA) and safeTALK. Available courses also include mental health awareness for teenagers.

The length of the courses varies depending on the level of training involved. Some courses are delivered over a few hours where others may last a couple of days.

Helen Gibson said:

“Mental ill-health can affect anyone, so by training members of the community to be aware of what to look out for and to know what to do in circumstances where people close to them are experiencing a mental health problem, we can together provide better support. I would encourage people who are interested to find out more about the training available in their local area.”

Participants in the courses over the past year have come from community and voluntary organisations, churches, health and social care trusts, GPs, education and sporting organisations, the private sector and the public sector.

For further information on emotional, mental health and well-being and suicide prevention training courses delivered in Northern Ireland please, visit www.mindingyourhead.info/training

The Mental and Emotional Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention Monitoring Report 2017/18 is available online at http://pha.site/3f5d

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 Derry man has been released on bail on condition that he does not buy anything on the internet or social media or travel in a taxi.

Patrick Stokes (20) of Barr's Lane in Derry appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court charged with three offences of stealing mobile phones and other devices in different incidents in late August.
He was also charged with making off without paying for a taxi on August 25.

The court heard Stokes was admitting the offences and a defence solicitor Seamus Quigley asked for a pre-sentence report.

A police officer connected Stokes to the charges and opposed bail.

The court heard that on August 21 CCTV revealed the theft of a device from a shop and the thief was believed to be Stokes.

On August 25 a woman was selling a mobile phone on Facebook and was contacted by a man believed to be Stokes under a false name.

They arranged to meet so the man could view the phone and when they did Stokes said he had no cash.

The woman went with the man in a taxi to get cash but then Stokes was said to have claimed not to have his cash card.

When the taxi stopped the man ran off with the phone and also didn't pay for the taxi.

On August 27 another woman was selling a phone and met a man who again claimed to have no cash but who put the phone in his pocket and ran off.

When interviewed Stokes said he was 'off his head' on drink and drugs.

The officer told the court police were concerned if released Stokes would re-offend in order to raise funds to compensate his victims.

Mr Quigley said that Stokes had not tried 'to deny the undeniable' and admitted everything.

He added that these were mean offences.

District Judge Barney McElholm released Stokes on bail on condition he wear a tag, observe a curfew from 7pm to 7am, stay out of the city centre, not to travel in a taxi or buy or sell anything on the Internet or social media.

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.

There have been a number of fixture changes in the SSE Airtricity League and Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup.

In the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup quarter-finals, Derry City v Bohemians has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 19 with kick-off at 7.45pm.

In the event of a replay, it will take place on Saturday, September 22 at Dalymount Park with kick-off at 6pm.

Due to the rescheduling of the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup quarter-final, two SSE Airtricity League Premier Division fixtures have been moved from Friday, September 21 to Saturday, September 22.

Derry City v Shamrock Rovers will kick-off at 5pm at Brandywell Stadium whilst St. Patrick's Athletic v Bohemians will kick-off at 5.30pm at Richmond Park.

Both fixtures are subject to no cup replay and in the event of a cup replay, a new date will be announced in due course.

Also in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division, the Cork City v Dundalk fixture, scheduled for Friday, September 21, will be televised live by RTE2. In order to facilitate the live transmission of the fixture, the kick-off time has been changed from 7.45pm to 7.15pm.

In the SSE Airtricity League First Division, the Wexford v Athlone Town fixture, which was originally scheduled for Saturday, September 22, has been rescheduled for Friday, September 21 at Ferrycarrig Park, with kick-off at 8pm.

Copyright © 2018 Football Association of Ireland, All rights reserved.

For media queries and unsubscription, please contact media@fai.ie

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.

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has called on the Irish Football Association to respect the rights of the Palestinian people by cancelling the international soccer friendly with Israel on Tuesday, September 11.

The Foyle MLA was commenting ahead of a Sinn Féin protest at Free Derry Corner set to take place on Tuesday, September 11 at 7.45pm.

Raymond McCartney said:“Next Tuesday, the IFA plan to host the Israeli soccer team for a friendly match at Windsor Park. This is the wrong decision.

“Over recent weeks and months, many sporting, cultural and music figures have heeded calls from the BDS movement, not to perform in Israel.

“Since March, the Israeli military have slaughtered over 160 Palestinians in Gaza including men, women and children taking part in peaceful demonstrations.

“The Israeli government must feel the pressure of the international anger at their mass killings, human rights violations and flagrant violations of international law. Ironically, their disgraceful restrictions placed on Palestinians prohibits the Palestinian team from flourishing internationally.

“The collapse of the South African apartheid regime proved the effectiveness of cultural, academic and economic boycott as a way of securing change.

“Once again, I am calling on the IFA to respect the rights of Palestinians by cancelling this match and sending out a strong signal that the slaughter of Palestinians in the open-air prison which is Gaza, is completely unacceptable.

“Sinn Féin have organised a protest at Free Derry Corner on Tuesday 11 September at 7.45pm - coinciding with kick off time - in opposition to this soccer match and in support of the Palestinian 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.

He’s fondly known as ‘the wee English fella’ in Derry Girls – but in October Dylan Llewellyn will be showing a different side to his talents when he takes to the catwalk at Derry’s biggest fashion celebration, Fashion Fest, on Saturday October 13.

The cast and crew will be making a welcome return to the city next month, to begin filming the second series of local writer Lisa McGee’s hit comedy which takes a rather irreverent but hilarious look back at the Derry of her childhood, in the midst of the chaos of the Troubles.

For the very few who haven’t switched on to the show, Dylan plays the slightly bewildered English cousin of the mouthy Michelle Mallon, who has to attend the all-girl Our Lady Immaculate College for his own protection. His charmingly naïve character is the perfect contrast to the outrageous Derry girls, whose antics inevitably lead to mayhem wherever they go.

The show has already garnered the attention of the critics, picking up a string of awards including two Irish Film and TV Awards, an Edinburgh TV Award, and scooping the Radio Times Comedy Champion award. And the second series promises to be just as successful with its winning combination of cringe-inducing 90’s nostalgia and biting comedy.

The cast are now looking forward to getting back together in the coming weeks, having been caught up in the whirlwind of publicity surrounding the show. As an honorary Derry girl, Dylan has already been immersed in the local culture thanks to his co-stars, and is looking forward to his return to the city. Invited by Derry City and Strabane District Council to present this year’s Fashion Fest event, Dylan will have the opportunity to impress a whole host of Derry girls at the North West’s premiere fashion showcase event.

While he admits he isn’t a quite style icon, the popular actor, who hails from Reigate, is already planning his outfit – but promises he won’t be out to steal the show.

“I can’t wait to get back to Derry, I had such a good time when I was there filming with the cast and crew,” he insists. “I love Ireland and having the opportunity to spend some time there filming in Derry and Belfast has been a real experience.”

When he first received the script for Derry Girls, Dylan says he just knew it was going to be big – but didn’t realise just quite how big. “When I read it I loved it right away, I thought it was hilarious,” he recalls. “I just knew when I was on set with the cast and crew that it was going to be something pretty special. But I didn’t think it would be breaking records to the extent that it is – I had thought we might pick up about 500k viewers – but not 2.5million. That’s just phenomenal.”

The cast and crew had the chance to travel round a number of locations in Derry and also Belfast where they had access to a studio. And Dylan managed to sample a bit of the famous local hospitality while he was here – but not too much he insists. “The girls did take me out a bit in Derry so I got to try out some of the local bars and the nightlife, and the local music – but I’m not a big drinker. I was very responsible I promise.

“The nightlife is just amazing over there, I really enjoyed it, and I’m looking forward to seeing a bit more when I get back. I absolutely love the banter and the Irish sense of humour, that’s what makes the place for me. The girls have all taken me to meet their families and made me feel really welcome.”

His character James certainly won’t be setting many trends but what about Dylan’s own style? The former Hollyoaks actor is quietly confident that he can hold his own at Fashion Fest. But he won’t be trying out any Blue Steel moves of his own.

“I’m on it – but I would say I will play it safe and go for a nice suit on the night. I think fashion is all relative really – it’s all about your own perceptions. I quite like vintage styles myself, 50’s, 60’s era - nothing too loud. Though I do quite like a Hawaiian shirt. I’ve got quite a cool military jacket which I like and a nice Harrington jacket which is a bit James Dean. I like to keep things simple - I won’t be out to steal the show.”

Derry Girls serves as a painful reminder of some of the fashion crazes we would all rather forget from the 90’s, with shell suits, crunchy perms and bomber jackets galore. In terms of his own fashion faux pas however Dylan has emerged virtually unscathed so far in the family photo album.

“I don’t think I’ve ever worn anything I’m really ashamed of,” he admits. “I’m very partial to pink though, so I have worn pink shirts or pink jumpers which can be really hard to pull off. But I think I handled it,” he laughs.

“This is my first official Fashion event so I’m really looking forward to it. Perhaps I’ll pick up a few tips while I’m there. Going from my past experiences out in Derry I know it will definitely be a great night out.”

You can catch up with Dylan Llewellyn at the Guildhall, where the Fashion Showcase event will be dazzling audiences with an array of classic and contemporary couture on October 13th, including a collection by celebrity stylist and esteemed fashion designer Kate Halfpenny. The London based designer counts celebrities such as Rihanna, Erin O Connor and Kate Moss among her clients and will be closing the show with her luxury brand Halfpenny London, showing pieces from her bridal collection as well as her 'Black Edit Collection'.

You can find out more about Fashion Fest and purchase tickets for the event at www.derrystrabane.com/fashionfest Follow us on Instagram @FashionFestDerry

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 Buncrana couple, originally from Romania, who stole goods from the TK Maxx store in the Waterside on three separate occasions have been given a suspended sentence at Derry Magistrates Court.

Victor Raduta (45) and Geanina Raduta (46) of The Woods in Buncrana County Donegal admitted stealing goods valued at more than £300 on January 6, March 25 and June 4.

The court heard that on June 4 police were called after a report of two shoplifters being detained at TK Maxx.

They attended and the two defendants were being held in a room.

The police were told they had entered the store at around 11.15am and had secreted items in their clothing and on their person.

Other items they placed in a basket and paid for at the till.

When they exited the store they were detained and the goods were valued at around £100.

Staff in the store recognised the pair as being involved in earlier incidents where items valued at more than £200 had been taken in January and March in similar circumstances.

The pair were interviewed on June 4 and made no comment and again on July 7 when they were shown CCTV but they declined to watch it.

Despite being identified on CCTV the pair denied the offences.

District Judge Barney McElholm fined each of them £500 and imposed a six month prison sentence suspended for two years on the pair.

They were ordered to pay £106 each in compensation.

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 big two in the League of Ireland both notched up impressive wins in the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup quarter-final games this evening.

Inishowen native Georgie Kelly was one of the goalscorers for Stephen Kenny's Dundalk side who beat Limerick FC 4-0 at the Market's Field.

Cork City blasted out a real warning to all their rivals as they mace the trip to the midlands and thumped promotion chasing Longford Town 7-0 with a dazzling performance. Kieran Sadlier got a hat-trick.

First Division leaders UCD knocked out Premier Division Waterford with a 2-1 win at the Belfield Bowl.

So holders Dundalk, Cork City and UCD go into the hat for the semi-finals.

The fourth name will be either Derry City or Bohemians who meet in the remaining quarter-final at the Brandywell on Wednesday, September 19 with kick-off at 7.45pm.

In the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup quarter-finals, Derry City v Bohemians has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 19 with kick-off at 7.45pm.

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.

In-form former Derry City striker Ronan Curtis was on the mark for the Republic of Ireland under-21 side that drew 1-1 in Mitrovica against Kosovo.

The 22-year-old Portsmouth player scored in the 81st minute to earn a draw for the Republic.

The talanted player, who was born in London but who grew up in St. Johnston and who played for Swilly Rovers and Kildrum Tigers before Derry City, scored with a fantastic solo effort to level the tie after Florent Hasani opened the scoring for the visitors at the Stadiumi Olimpik Adem Jashari.

In a first-half of few chances for either side, Curtis almost handed Ireland the lead in the ninth minute after he turned inside off the right but his shot went narrowly past the left-hand post.

Dren Feka hit the bar with a powerful header in the 27th-minute before Ryan Manning almost gave Noel King's side the lead. The Galway-native charged down goalkeeper Florjan Smakiqi's clearance, but the keeper collected the ball at the second attempt.

The home side should have taken the lead five minutes into the second-half. Lirim Kastrasti was a constant threat as he burst down the right to cut inside but dragged his shot wide of the left-hand post.

Kastrati played a huge part in the goal when the home side took the lead in the 64th-minute. The No.9 burst down the wing to play a neat cross to Hasani who turned the ball home.

Noel King was left frustrated at the final whistle as the away side should have secured all three points. Another set-piece saw Sweeney dominate the air once again to knock down for Harry Charsley but the keeper somehow saved his effort from six-yards out.

In the final seconds of the game, substitute Jake Mulraney flashed the ball past the six-yard area with Ronan Hale at the back-post. The Derry City man was inches away from turning the ball home as both sides were forced to settle for a draw.

It's a point which sees Ireland maintain second spot in UEFA U21 European Championship qualifying Group Five ahead of Tuesday's game against Germany at Tallaght Stadium.

"We can be frustrated after the game. I thought the work-rate and the spirit of the players was fantastic, and deserved to get something out of the game. But, if you're looking at the chances at the end, we should have secured all three points," U21 Head Coach Noel King said.

"It was a fantastic goal from Ronan, he was brilliant throughout the game and I'm delighted for him to get his goal. Kosovo are a really good team and they've taken points off Germany here so it's a positive result. We go into Tuesday's game against Germany with qualification still in our hands."

Striker Ronan Curtis and defender Ryan Sweeney will be suspended for Tuesday's game against Germany due to suspension, having received three yellow cards during the campaign.

Kosovo: Florjan Smakiqi (GK), Arian Kabashi, Besfort Kolgeci, Ardian Ismajli (C), Dren Feka, Valmir Sulejmani (Kushtrim Shabani 72), Florent Hasani (Mirlind Daku 89), Lirim Kastrati, Ron Broja, Kamer Krasniqi (Merirton Korenica 59), Lirim Mema.

Republic of Ireland: Kieran O'Hara (GK), Danny Kane (Ronan Hale 75), Corey Whelan, Conor Shaughnessy, Ryan Sweeney, Harry Charsley, Josh Cullen (C), Reece Grego-Cox, Ronan Curtis, Ryan Manning (Jake Mulraney 75), Liam Kinsella.

Referee: Petr Ardeleanu (CZE)

Tickets for Tuesday's qualifier against Germany are available via Ticketmaster. Tickets are just €5 for adults and FREE for U18s and FAI Season Ticket Holders.

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.

Conor Bradley from Derry, in an excellent time of 31.17, won the Jimmy Shiels Memorial 10k run around the Donegal village of St. Johnston on Friday evening.

The late Jimmy Shiels was a Finn Valley athlete was well loved by all in the athletic fraternity across the north-west and indeed Ireland.

And there were runners from many clubs - including City of Derry Spartans, Foyle Valley and Bolt - in attendance to run over a course that received much favourable comment.

The start was captured live by Finn Valley AC's Kieran Carlin who posted it on social media.

Jimmy Shiels was a super athlete who consistently broke 32 minutes for 10k. Many members of his family were there for the occasion.

Results.

Place Name Team Bib No Chip Time Gun Time Cat
1 Conor Bradley City of Derry Spartans 160 31:18 31:18 SM
2 Declan Reed City of Derry Spartans 175 31:21 31:21 M45
3 David Mc Menamin Inishowen AC 182 33:20 33:21 SM
4 Danny Mooney Letterkenny AC 161 33:30 33:30 SM
5 Marty Lynch Milford AC 197 33:53 33:54 SM
6 Paul McFadden 216 33:59 34:00 SM
7 Johnny Canning Foyle Valley AC 249 34:10 34:11 SM
8 John McElhill Finn Valley AC 496 34:12 34:13 M40
9 Gerard Gallagher Finn Valley AC 425 34:12 34:13 SM
10 Karol Doherty 186 34:22 34:22 SM
11 Gavin Crawford Finner 463 34:29 34:29 M40
12 Pauric Mc Kinney Inishowen AC 205 34:57 34:57 M50
13 Kenny Melaugh Lifford Strabane AC 454 34:57 34:57 SM
14 David Conwell Killybegs 283 35:06 35:07 SM
15 Mark McPaul Finn Valley AC 200 35:16 35:16 SM
16 James Brown Foyle Valley AC 195 35:17 35:18 M45
17 Paddy Ryan Milford AC 199 35:18 35:19 SM
18 Michael Murphy Derry City Track Club 194 35:32 35:33 M40
19 Nakita Burke Letterkenny AC 238 35:41 35:41 SW
20 Anthony Doherty Milford AC 198 36:07 36:08 M50
21 John Whoriskey Milford AC 188 36:09 36:10 SM
22 Fergal McGee Rosses AC 478 36:09 36:12 SM
23 Paul Mc Glinchey Finn Valley AC 157 36:15 36:15 M40
24 Hugh Coll Milford AC 187 36:26 36:26 M45
25 Karl Kelly Inishowen AC 181 36:49 36:49 SM
26 Simon Ward Finner 482 37:15 37:18 SM
27 Kevin Kelly Letterkenny AC 424 37:28 37:29 SM
28 Marty Devenny Letterkenny AC 153 37:40 37:40 SM
29 Gerard Bogle Finn Valley AC 173 38:06 38:07 M50
30 Chris Leitch Finner 401 38:05 38:09 SM
31 Gerard Marley Milford AC 477 38:11 38:12 SM
32 Frank Mulrine Finner 481 38:18 38:21 M40
33 Damian Murphy Raphoe Road Runners 246 38:22 38:24 M40
34 Daren Price Letterkenny AC 209 38:32 38:34 M40
35 Barry Mackey Letterkenny AC 225 38:56 38:58 M55
36 James Crossan 260 39:08 39:10 SM
37 Liam Tinney Letterkenny 24/7 474 39:09 39:11 M40
38 Liam Murray 480 39:19 39:19 M40
39 James Donaghey Convoy AC 262 39:30 39:30 M45
40 Colm McTaggart 236 39:34 39:39 M40
41 James Whoriskey Milford AC 299 39:41 39:46 M40
42 Mark Connolly Finn Valley AC 492 39:47 39:48 M55
43 Jude O' Donnell 156 39:49 39:50 M40
44 Ian Ward Finner 400 39:49 39:53 SM
45 Martin Mc Crossan Finner 483 39:50 39:54 SM
46 Pat Brady Letterkenny 24/7 473 39:53 39:55 M55
47 Paul Doherty Letterkenny 24/7 460 39:53 39:56 M40
48 Martin Dunleavy Foyle Valley AC 180 39:57 40:00 M50
49 Denis Boner Rosses AC 306 39:52 40:01 M45
50 Nathan Marston Finner 491 40:05 40:08 SM
51 Michael Penrose Finn Valley AC 277 40:08 40:09 M50
52 Jason Brown 286 40:19 40:27 M40
53 Helen Mc Cready Rosses AC 268 40:42 40:45 SW

54 Dara Sweeney Carmen Runners 159 40:42 40:46 M45
55 Gorge Harkin Born 2 Run 275 40:49 40:53 M55
56 Darren Toland Finn Valley AC 484 40:54 40:57 SM
57 Hugh Duffy 423 40:55 41:01 SM
58 Paul Cosgrove Letterkenny AC 185 41:00 41:02 M50
59 Brian Kelly Clann Na Ngael WJR 412 41:05 41:10 M40
60 Dessie Mc Shane 226 41:14 41:15 M50
61 John Hughes Letterkenny AC 184 41:15 41:17 M55
62 Adrian Callaghan Letterkenny AC 472 41:27 41:29 M45
63 Rian Norrby Foyle Valley AC 235 41:24 41:29 SM
64 Sean Crossan Finn Valley AC 464 41:29 41:30 M45
65 Stephen Shiels Letterkenny AC 210 41:29 41:31 M45
66 Raymond Mc Gahey 255 41:30 41:35 M50
67 John McFadden Letterkenny AC 296 41:41 41:43 M40
68 Catriona Devine Finn Valley AC 293 41:54 41:55 F40
69 Seamus O' Donnell Finn Valley AC 172 41:51 41:55 M40
70 David Russell 498 41:51 41:55 SM
71 Kay Byrne Finn Valley AC 207 42:04 42:05 F55
72 Joe Hegarty 254 42:17 42:22 M50
73 Gavin Boyce Finn Valley AC 218 42:28 42:29 M45
74 Sean O' Leary Finner 486 42:27 42:30 M55
75 Gemma McGinty Foyle Valley AC 203 42:33 42:36 SW
76 Declan Gill Foyle Valley AC 170 42:33 42:36 SM
77 Stephen O' Mahoney Finner 239 42:56 43:00 M55
78 Frank McTaggart Milford AC 237 43:04 43:04 M45
79 Tom Thompson Finn Valley AC 171 43:05 43:06 M50
80 Paul Lee Letterkenny AC 422 43:08 43:11 M50
81 Kieran Coyle KCR 403 43:08 43:12 M40
82 John Taylor Convoy AC 404 43:13 43:18 M55
83 Eamon Connolly Aghyaran Athletics 462 43:17 43:19 M40
84 Stevie Keys Ballyshannon Bullets 297 43:13 43:22 SM
85 Joe McCarthy 219 43:25 43:26 M55
86 Michael Harkin 251 43:17 43:28 M40
87 Stephen Burns Burns FC 470 43:38 43:43 SM
88 Noeleen Merritt Finn Valley AC 244 44:15 44:17 F50
89 Martin Anderson Finn Valley AC 265 44:16 44:19 M50
90 Kevin Greenan Letterkenny AC 468 44:19 44:21 M60
91 Andy Scanlon Finn Valley AC 266 44:35 44:37 M50
92 Daniel McGavigan 488 44:32 44:38 SM
93 Philip Kelly Lifford Strabane AC 469 44:33 44:39 M40
94 Brendan Delap Letterkenny Park Runners 166 44:36 44:39 M65
95 Mary Hippsley Finn Valley AC 485 44:36 44:39 F50
96 Garrett McCarron 471 44:37 44:42 M40
97 Laura Maguire 196 44:38 44:42 F50
98 Kevin Mc Menamin Lifford Strabane AC 248 44:38 44:43 M40
99 Richard Raymond Letterkenny AC 183 45:09 45:09 M60
100 Benny Barber Foyle Valley AC 177 45:09 45:13 M55
101 Paul Coyle Foyle Valley AC 215 45:20 45:24 M40
102 Colm Mooney 310 45:21 45:25 M40
103 Deirdre Diver Letterkenny AC 308 45:11 45:26 SW
104 Liam Mc Ginty Finn Valley AC 433 45:21 45:27 SM
105 Ton Bangert Raphoe Road Runners 240 45:26 45:29 M60
106 Joanne Mc Nabb Finn Valley AC 220 45:29 45:31 SW
107 Marie Boyle Letterkenny AC 426 45:17 45:32 SW
108 Gary Kierans Letterkenny AC 427 45:17 45:33 SM
109 Niamh Gibbons Letterkenny 24/7 428 45:26 45:33 SW
110 Padraic Sheerin 429 45:26 45:34 SM
111 Gerard Crawford 497 45:31 45:37 M40
112 Anne Robinson Letterkenny 24/7 465 45:42 45:48 SW
113 Gerard McConnell Swanlings 479 45:49 45:55 M40
114 Andrew Doherty 178 45:49 45:57 SM
115 Hugh Allan Raphoe Road Runners 257 46:01 46:09 M50
116 John Griffin Finn Valley Fit 4 Life 453 46:06 46:16 M45
117 Joe Boyce 217 46:22 46:28 SM
118 Dean Catterson 431 46:32 46:49 M40
119 Peter Norrby Bolt 234 46:51 46:56 M45
120 Noreen Bonner Finn Valley AC 243 46:54 46:57 F60
121 Dean Spencer Run For Fun 202 46:43 46:59 SM
122 Conor Mc Gonagle Finn Valley AC 309 46:51 47:02 M40
123 Michelle Ferguson Rosses AC 267 46:56 47:06 SW
124 Edwin Patton 489 47:01 47:06 SM
125 Chris Ashmore Run For Fun 201 46:54 47:09 M50
126 Gerard Mullen Letterkenny AC 211 47:22 47:24 M45
127 Paul McGettigan Letterkenny 24/7 493 47:23 47:30 SM
128 Mark Carr Milford AC 284 47:25 47:32 SM
129 Noel Mc Monagle City of Derry Spartans 409 47:32 47:35 M55
130 Bill Duncan Lifford Strabane AC 259 47:33 47:35 M50
131 Brian Doherty Swanlings 189 47:33 47:40 M40
132 Adam Donaghey Melvin Walk Jog 264 47:29 47:43 SM
133 Shane Logue Milford AC 223 47:40 47:48 SM
134 Claire Keys Lifford Strabane AC 221 47:42 47:55 F40
135 Dan Donnelly Bolt 232 47:52 47:57 M40
136 Mary Ross Bolt 457 47:53 47:57 F40
137 Seamus Carlin Inishowen AC 227 48:08 48:14 SM
138 Lochlainn Harte 414 48:10 48:18 SM
139 Ciaran McCauley Lifford Strabane AC 222 48:10 48:22 M40
140 Niamh Mc Carthy Carrick Aces 164 48:12 48:24 SW
141 Rachael Stilvern Letterkenny 24/7 280 48:28 48:35 SW
142 Cathy Breslin Rosses AC 490 48:35 48:44 F45
143 Áine Whoriskey Milford AC 300 48:39 48:45 F40
144 Gary Gallen Finn Valley AC 206 48:42 48:52 M45
145 Paul Gallagher Shape Up Fitness 242 48:51 48:57 M45
146 Darian Moore Star 276 49:03 49:09 SM
147 Peter Lynch 402 49:03 49:09 M45
148 Linda Macbeth Raphoe Road Runners 281 49:03 49:10 SW
149 Nuala Crossan 208 49:11 49:11 SW
150 Oliver Smith Killybegs Swanlings 285 49:10 49:19 SM
151 Kevin Toner Letterkenny AC 252 49:19 49:22 M70
152 James Gallagher 271 49:46 49:51 M45
153 Liam Wiseman Letterkenny Park Runners 455 49:52 49:53 M55
154 Michael McCurdy Lifford Strabane AC 500 50:04 50:11 M40
155 D McGinty 494 50:15 50:22 M55
156 Liam Sweeney Run For Fun 204 50:35 50:51 M45
157 Don Smith Convoy AC 430 50:52 51:04 M60
158 Paul Gallagher Milford AC 233 51:17 51:26 M40
159 Roy Hunter 461 51:32 51:37 M55
160 John Doherty 406 51:32 51:42 M50
161 Janeen Leese Foyle Valley AC 190 51:37 51:44 SW
162 Tommy Doherty Drumoghill Running 476 51:32 51:44 M55
163 Sandra Clarke 154 51:37 51:46 SW
164 Patrick Foxy Martin 168 51:38 51:46 M50
165 Andrea Killoran Letterkenny AC 302 52:05 52:20 F40
166 Paul Toner Letterkenny AC 301 52:06 52:22 M45
167 Patsy Doherty Foyle Valley AC 192 52:22 52:28 M55
168 Joseph Casey 174 52:22 52:36 M50
169 Raj Mehan Raphoe Road Runners 279 52:30 52:37 SM
170 Philip Browne Letterkenny 24/7 273 52:30 52:37 M40
171 Zoe Kelly 214 52:42 52:48 SW
172 Brian Mc Laughlin Foyle Valley AC 191 52:48 52:53 M45
173 Donal Cairns Melvin Walk Jog 411 52:40 52:55 M40
174 Iggy Houston Everyones A Winner 213 52:43 52:57 M50
175 Eamon Coyle Melvin Walk Jog 410 52:54 53:09 M45
176 Gerry Ward 263 52:59 53:10 M55
177 Mairead Jennings 278 53:04 53:16 F40
178 Marjan Bangert 241 53:27 53:31 F70
179 Olivia Cuskelly Lifford Strabane AC 459 54:15 54:21 F40
180 AN Other Village Road Runners 270 54:47 54:47 M50
181 Yvonne Stockdale Milford AC 224 54:47 54:55 F40
182 Declan Black Run For Fun 307 54:40 54:56 SM
183 Fiona McGinley Rosses AC 261 54:58 55:08 SW
184 Paul Curran 163 55:00 55:10 M40
185 Tom Ross 179 55:01 55:10 M40
186 Deborah Conroy Moor Lough Joggers 416 54:57 55:11 SW
187 Ciaran Kelly Moor Lough Joggers 415 54:57 55:12 M40
188 Mary Martin Finn Valley AC 176 55:03 55:13 F65
189 Marcus Alexander 250 55:11 55:18 M50
190 Brendan Brolly 450 55:14 55:22 M50
191 Eddie Breslin Lifford Strabane AC 295 55:17 55:23 M55
192 Catherine Breslin Lifford Strabane AC 294 55:18 55:24 F50
193 Theresa Wiseman Letterkenny Park Runners 456 55:44 55:48 F55
194 John Mailey Convoy AC 303 56:04 56:17 M40
195 Sarah Wilson Village Road Runners 452 56:05 56:17 SW
196 Elaine Parke Convoy AC 304 56:04 56:18 F40
197 John Friel Village Road Runners 288 56:10 56:25 M50
198 Julie Brogan Village Road Runners 287 56:12 56:25 SW
199 Melissa Gibson Raphoe Road Runners 247 56:26 56:38 SW
200 Ciara Devenney Raphoe Road Runners 407 56:26 56:38 SW
201 Mary McGranaghan Raphoe Road Runners 458 56:30 56:40 F45
202 Laurence Doherty 413 56:30 56:43 M55
203 Sophie Kelly Run For Fun 432 56:49 57:02 F40
204 Carmel Brindle Everyones A Winner 487 56:53 57:07 F45
205 Shaona Kelly Raphoe Road Runners 305 57:03 57:11 SW
206 Katrina Doherty 169 57:00 57:16 SW
207 Dee Griffin Convoy AC 418 57:04 57:18 F50
208 Tanya Hall Convoy AC 419 57:06 57:19 F40
209 Kayleigh Smith 421 57:22 57:35 SW
210 Johnny Devenney 230 57:22 57:37 SM
211 Emma Bates Convoy AC 298 57:25 57:38 SW
212 Grainne Greene Convoy AC 420 57:29 57:42 SW
213 Taylor Neilands 292 58:09 58:20 SM
214 Graham Neilands 291 58:10 58:21 M45
215 Glenn Bovaird 274 58:16 58:25 M40
216 Garry Sheils 167 58:16 58:25 SM
217 Ivor Wilson Drumoghill Running 451 1:00:21 1:00:34 M40
218 Shaun O' Donnell Swanlings 417 1:01:17 1:01:33 M55
219 Emma Craddock 228 1:01:28 1:01:43 SW
220 Brian Breslin Finn Valley AC 405 1:01:59 1:02:09 M50
221 Isabell Burke Finn Valley AC 282 1:01:59 1:02:09 F45
222 Margaret Peoples 193 1:02:00 1:02:10 F55
223 Oliver Gallagher 272 1:02:33 1:02:47 M50
224 John Fitzgerald Milford AC 475 1:02:55 1:03:12 M60
225 Nicola Devenny 229 1:03:00 1:03:15 F40
226 Ciara O' Flanagan Raphoe Road Runners 256 1:04:10 1:04:22 F45
227 Nuala Allan Raphoe Road Runners 258 1:04:10 1:04:22 F50
228 Liz Gallagher Village Road Runners 289 1:05:23 1:05:38 F55
229 Margaret McNamee Village Road Runners 495 1:05:24 1:05:38 F55
230 Caroline Friel Village Road Runners 290 1:05:24 1:05:38 F45
231 Meg O'Donnell Lusticle AC 212 1:06:05 1:06:08 SW
232 Jim Hines Finn Valley AC 269 1:06:40 1:06:55 M70
233 Lourdes E Brolly Waves 245 1:08:34 1:08:43 F45
234 Melanie Toland 231 1:08:30 1:08:46 SW
235 Judith Porter Lusticle AC 253 1:09:06 1:09:09 F45
236 Mairéad Boyce Lusticle AC 165 1:09:06 1:09:10 SW
237 Laura Middleton 158 1:15:29 1:15:38 SW
238 Patricia O' Brien KCR 466 1:21:22 1:21:34 SW
239 Colleen O'Brien 467 1:21:22 1:21:34 SW
DNF Aisling Nelis Raphoe Road Runners 408 SW
DNF Fintan Stewart City of Derry Spartans 162 SM
DNF Rory O' Donnell 499 M65

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.

Bragg/Olphert, Elizabeth Clarke (Betty) (nee Parkhill) September 6 2018 Peacefully at home (formerly of 6 Seymour Gardens, Caw, surrounded by her loving family in her 81st year) dearly beloved wife of the late John Olphert and the late William (Billy) Bragg, much loved mum of Gary, Margaret, Clive, Ian, Heather, Philip, Stephen and the late Caroline, loving mother-in-law of Lorraine, Tommy, Kenny, Lorna, Debbie and Sharon, adored grandmother and great-grandmother, dearest sister of Greta, John, Ernie, Samuel, Thomas and the late Dorothy.
Service of Thanksgiving for her life in her late home 442, Glenshane Road, Claudy on Monday 10th September at 2.00pm, followed by burial in Altnagelvin Cemetery.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to Seven Oaks Comfort Fund c/o Mrs Ruth Hay, Funeral Director, 24a Church Road, Altnagelvin, Londonderry, BT47 3QQ.
Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by her entire family circle.
The Lord’s my Shepherd.

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 Northern Irish depression charity is holding a walk in Derry tomorrow to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

Anyone wishing to take part in the AWARE walk can still register online, or on the day  for just £10.

This year’s walk, which will take place on Sunday September 9 to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (Monday September 10), is expected to be bigger and better than ever. The walk is 5k which will leave from Pure Gym at Quayside at 11am.

Margaret McCrossan, Fundraising Officer from AWARE said: “In 2016, a total of 297 people lost their lives to suicide in Northern Ireland. This is a frightening statistic and what’s even more shocking is that Northern Ireland has statistically higher levels of mental health problems than the national average.

"The AWARE Mood Walk provides an opportunity for people to step out, show their support for those suffering with mental illnesses such as depression, and in-turn challenge the stigma many still face in society today.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have the support of M&S this year who, through their Foyleside store, have been able to promote the event to an extensive network of customers and colleagues.”

The AWARE Mood Walk is part of Marks & Spencer’s community transformation programme. As part of Plan A 2025, M&S is currently trialling a range of locally tailored actions across ten communities (including Derry~Londonderry) to help tackle the issues that matter the most – such as mental health and wellbeing, unemployment, loneliness and poverty – with a view to roll out the programme to 1,000 locations by 2025.

Danielle McDaid, M&S Ten Communities Project Co-ordinator said: “We’re excited to come together and support the AWARE Mood Walk as part of M&S’ wider commitment to Derry~Londonderry.

“Through our community programme, we’ve seen the lasting difference we can make to people’s lives through lots of small actions. We believe we can play a key role in raising awareness of an extremely important cause and deliver a positive change to the local community.”

Margaret McCrossan continued: “The AWARE Mood Walk is a really fun event and we’re encouraging walkers and runners of all ages and capabilities to take part - you are even welcome to bring your dog along!

“The day will begin with a short motivating warm up to lift our moods and ensure we are both physically and mentally prepared for the event.”

“Participants are encourage to fundraise through sponsorship with all monies raised going directly to educating and supporting those suffering with mental illnesses.”

To register online go to aware-ni.org/moodwalk

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.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Derry last night.

The incident took place in the the Cooke Street/Corporation Street area.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "It was reported that shortly after 10pm a 28 year old man was attacked in an alleyway in the area by 3 unknown males.

"The man was struck with what is believed to have been an iron bar and sustained a fractured eye socket and bruising to his body as a result.

"The males are described as wearing dark clothing and had their faces covered with scarves."

Detective Constable Richard Donnell is appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Corporation Street or Cooke Street last night and who witnessed the incident to contact Detectives in Strand Road on 101 quoting reference 1483 07/09/18.

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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

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.

As the new school year gets under way, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness amongst Derry parents about the importance of good hygiene – both in school and at home.

“Schools can be a common breeding ground for germs and bugs so it is important to take steps to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading germs to others,” said Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA.

Parents and schools can help reduce the spread of germs by encouraging kids to practise good personal hygiene by washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet and before eating.

You should also make sure your child carries tissues at all times and teach children to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and to use a tissue which is disposed of quickly and carefully in a bin

Teach children it is good to share, but not to share drinks, food or lip balm.

Make sure your child receives the free flu vaccine if they are eligible

The PHA also suggests using an alcohol-based hand gel or wipe when hand washing is not possible, such as at school events or during field trips.

The spread of infection can also be reduced by thoroughly cleaning lunchboxes each day and supervising children as they regularly clean out their schoolbags. Use a wet cloth or wipe to remove dripped liquids and food crumbs from schoolbags.

It is also important to keep children at home from school if they are sick.

“Bugs and germs are often found in school and these can be easily passed from child to child,” said Dr Veal.

“Effective hand washing is one of the most important tools in preventing many illnesses. Clean hands are vital in controlling the spread of infections and other illnesses such as food poisoning and seasonal flu. By following some simple steps we can help to avoid illness.

“A great way for kids to learn about how these infections can spread is using e-Bug, a series of fun online games for primary and secondary school children.

The resources, which are free and matched to the school curriculum, can allow teachers to work with pupils and play games like the Bogey Bus, Microbe Mania, Kitchen Mayhem and Super Sneezes, learning about the spread of microbes while having fun."

For further information on the seasonal flu vaccine see www.pha.site/fluvaccination

For more info on e-Bug, visit www.e-bug.eu

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 bumper day of fundraising events is currently underway in aid of Altnagelvin Hospital's Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit.

The Tattoo Lounge in Rathmor Business Park is holding a charity tattoo event and family fun day.

The Tattoo spaces are now fully booked, however there may be a small number of cancelations.

There will be a big display of custom motorcycles on show hosted by the Exiles RC and guests from the Dead Society MCC this morning at the Tattoo Lounge.

The family fun day is also underway with live music from local musicians. Lots of kids fake tattoos are available on the day at very small prices.

There is also a bake sale with lots of homemade goodies and a bouncy castle is available.

Irish dancers will be doing short sets throughout the day and if the weather permits there will be a BBQ with burgers & hot dogs at only £1 per hot dog & £2 for a burger. Everyone welcome.

At 8pm tonight at The Delacroix there will be a massive night of rock music will kick off with 5 top class local bands. Limited tickets are still available at £5 and payment on the door will be permitted if there is space.

Raffle tickets will be on sale throughout the full day and night for a huge list of great prizes donated by local businesses.

The event was organised in part by Derry man Bob McLaughlin whose twin daughters Saorliath and Saoirse McLaughlin received life saving care at the NNICU.

Mr McLaughlin thanked everyone at the Tattoo Lounge and all the volunteers, bands and local businesses who have helped with the event.

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.

Young people are set to be at the heart of culture tasting event in Derry which has 'glam squad' makeovers, comic book characters, retro gaming events and even its own hashtag.

Culture Night 2018 is when arts and cultural organisations across Ireland open their doors in celebration inviting the wider public to experience some of their local culture. This year’s event is scheduled to take place on Friday 19 September with an extensive programme of events to celebrate the local visual arts, music, theatre, dance, heritage and cultural offering.

This year, a particular emphasis has been placed on offering events for children, young people and families ahead of the Council’s Youth 19 celebrations, a year dedicated to young people aged 12-24.

Clare Lynch, Children and Young Persons Coordinator with Derry City and Strabane District Council said she is delighted that this there is a strong focus on youth during this year’s celebrations and is looking forward to seeing young people from across the city and district getting involved and being part of the cultural showcase.

She said: “This is a fantastic event and a great way for us to work towards a Child Friendly Community. It provides a platform for young people to meet new people from across the District, showcase their talents and to be recognised for the fantastic contribution which young people make to our communities every day.

"It’s great to have so many different opportunities for our young people to take part in, that’s exactly how they develop an interest and passion for their community.

"We will be increasing the amount of opportunities for young people to get involved and take a leading role in their communities during Youth 19 and this event provides a great platform as we work towards announcing the details of our exciting Youth 19 programme.”

Among the key youth highlights of the city and district’s 19 September celebrations will be the Culture Night Youth Takeover at the Nerve Centre when young people from across the city and district will take part in a packed programme of original new music, film and digital fabrication for young people, produced, programmed and presented by the city own youth talent from 6-11pm. More information is available at www.nervecentre.org

Young stylists from Rutledge will bring “flair to hair” for audiences goers as young performers showcase their talents at the Open Mic and Glam Squad event at Our Space in Waterloo Place from 7-10pm while local musicians in the Strabane area are encouraged to take part in the Pulse Music Trail taking place at Castle Street from 5-8pm.

Young people interested in meeting some of their favourite comic characters are invited along to listen to stories from comic book legends at the Angry Cherry Shop, Foyle Street from 6 to 9.30pm.

Young People from OUT North West and Simply Youth in partnership with Street Talks will take to the city centre to showcase their 'This is Us' project. Twelve young people who identify as LGBTQ+ used photography, film and spoken word to explore their own identify, highlight issues and raise awareness of the harassment and victimisation against LGBQ.

Gamers are also catered for on Culture Night with a special Retro Gaming event taking place at the Hive Studios at Rath Mor in Creggan from 5-8pm. There will be everything from school platform classics like Super Mario Brothers to Sega classics such as Sonic, to enjoy.

Other young people and child friendly highlights at this year’s celebrations is a performance by the Astronomic Weather Choir at Walker’s Plinth on the city’s walls and a performance from children from the Outer West Neighbourhood Renewal Area where they will enact the true story of Jimmy Allieander, the 7.6 foot ‘Giant of Brooke Park’.

The Verbal Arts Centre is also focusing on youth and is organising a drop in event from 6-9pm entitled ‘Once upon a time’ where young people can sample interactive storytelling and performance sessions including a collaborative writing programme featuring favourite book characters, a series of flash fiction storytelling sessions, a performance from In Your Space’s Youth Circus Troupe and a demonstration of a technical production known as Chroma-Keying that is used in films, weather reports and the news.

The Guildhall will play host to the Commissioner’s Cape, from 4-8pm, where young people and children will be invited by the NI Children’s Commission to help raise awareness about children and young person’s rights through creative colouring. It will also host the NI Science Festival’s Exploration Dome with its state of the art mobile planetarium using 3D digital projection technology.

In addition to all of this, a number of cafes and shops in Derry city centre and in and around Strabane’s Castle Street will remain open on the evening of Culture Night to offer refreshments and entertainment as the public make their way around the venues and Cappuccinos Café in Foyle Street will be treating patrons with their comic monologue ‘Waiting Tables for Godot’.

The full programme for Culture Night 2018 is available to view at www.derrystrabane.com/culturenight.

The public can follow the action and share their own experiences on social media using the hashtag #CultureNightDS.

Picture: Local young people pictured at the Nerve Centre where you can witness a one of a kind live recording session where three local young bands will record two original tracks each, crafting a record in the flesh from 6pm - 9pm on Culture 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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

A nature charity has asked the people of Derry to help it collect data on the changing seasons.

Schools across the city have reopened their doors, but a traditional childhood favourite – the conker – is missing from the trees.

The Woodland Trust claims the sizzling summer heatwave and prolonged drought has caused a delay in ripe conkers appearing on our trees.

In Northern Ireland, while there have been some sightings of aspiring conkers – the familiar spiny green husks hiding in the branches – no records of ripe conkers have been received.  They’re easy to spot as the horse chestnut will drop the conkers to the ground naturally when they are ripe.

By recording natural seasonal sings – that’s the first signs of spring and autumn – members of the public are helping to show how climate change is affecting UK plants and wildlife.

The charity is appealing for more people across Northern Ireland to take part in its online project, as records here are relatively scarce.
Martha Boalch, citizen science officer for the Woodland Trust, says: “We’d really love local people to take part in Nature’s Calendar, so that we can get an accurate picture of how the seasons unfold right across the UK.  And keeping your eyes peeled for conkers is a great place to start.  I’m sure the kids will agree!

“This year’s unusual weather, with a prolonged lack of water, could have delayed the horse chestnut trees producing their fruit and could stop them from growing to their full potential.

“Although we’ve only had a small number of conkers recorded so far, all is not lost for our favourite sign of autumn!  Over the next month we would expect more fruit to ripen, but only time will tell whether it will be a plentiful, or disappointing, crop.”

To find out more about Nature’s Calendar and to become a recorder, visit naturescalendar.woodlandtrust.org.uk

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 Foyle MLA has called for urgent action to be taken to re-develop the Meenan Square site in the Bogside which has become a source of anti-social activity and unregulated bonfires.

Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan was commenting after a site meeting with representatives from the Executive Office, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Department for Communities and local community organisations. 

Ms Mullan said:  “Derry City & Strabane District Council has agreed to deploy contractors to secure the unsafe elements of the Meenan Square site tomorrow, but this move is only a sticking plaster. A long-term solution is required. 

“It cannot be allowed to continue lying vacant and in such a state of disrepair. It is a health hazard and an eyesore for the residents of the area who have to look at it on a daily basis and deal with the anti-community activity that takes place there.  

“I understand the processes involved here and that they take time, but that should not delay progress being made and all bodies have a responsibility to prioritise this development.

“At today’s meeting, I received a progress update on contact made with the owner and the business case status to develop the site under the Urban Villages scheme. 

“The Urban Villages scheme provides an opportunity to transform one of the most dangerous and damaging sites in this city into a positive community development.

“I can assure residents this will remain our priority until it 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 editor@derrynews.net at any time.

Children as young as five have been seen throwing fireworks in a Derry estate, it has emerged.

Independent Councillor Gary Donnelly said he has witnessed children as young as five or six throwing them in the Creggan estate.

"Groups of young people are attacking motorists and pedestrians with fireworks and there has been a couple of near misses," said Councillor Donnelly.
"I personally witnessed some children as young as five or six firing them at each other in the Cromore area and I have been contacted workers from businesses in Central Drive which have also been targeted.

"It's putting people off using the shops in the area and losing shop owners valuable trade. I'm calling on parents to ensure their children are not involved and there is also the danger of a young person involved being badly hurt using these fireworks.

"Anyone selling fireworks to children bear responsibility for hurt or damage caused," he added.

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.