Derry Now

A man arrested over a disturbance in the Rosemount area on Derry on Friday night is expected to appear in court tomorrow morning.

A police spokesperson said: "On Friday 28th September, at around 5:45pm, police responded to a 999 call to Osbourne Street to a number of reports of an ongoing disturbance regarding a male in possession of two knives.

"The male was located and arrested by police a short time later.

"This male has been charged tonight and will be held to the next court for a number of offences including burglary, common assault, possession of an offensive weapon and driving a motor vehicle without insurance.

"A moped was also seized by police."

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.

DUFFY
28th September 2018, peacefully at his home, 22 Drumcliff Avenue, HUGH, beloved husband of the late Bridget. Loving father of Marie, Susanna, Thomas, Una, Patrick, Breige and Bernard. A dear and loving grandfather and great-grandfather and a dear brother of Eddie, Peggy and the late Maureen, John Joseph and Ray. Funeral leaving his home on Monday at 10.50am to St. Columba’s Church, Longtower for Requiem Mass at 11.30am. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations, if wished, to Marie Curie, c/o Fiona Wallace, 6 Mount Pleasant, Culmore Road. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul. Our Lady of Knock intercede for him.

HEGARTY
28th September 2018, peacefully at Altnagelvin Hospital, DANIEL JOSEPH, beloved son of the late Michael and Catherine and loving brother of Susan, Maureen, Charlie and Sean. Funeral leaving his home, 19 Marlborough Terrace, on Sunday at 6.30pm to St. Eugene’s Cathedral for Requiem Mass on Monday at 10.00am. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul. Our Lady of Lourdes intercede for him.

Police have warned motorists of long traffic tailbacks on the Foreglen Road due to ongoing roadworks and hurling finals at Owenbeg.

A police spokesperson said:" There are long tailbacks on Foreglen Road, Dungiven this afternoon due to ongoing roadworks in the town centre and the hurling finals taking place at Owenbeg.

"Officers are working to alleviate the congestion however if you can, please avoid the area or expect significant delays."

McGARVEY
29th September 2018, peacefully at Altnagelvin Hospital, JAMES WILLIAM, beloved son of the late Henry and Gennie. Loving father of David, a dear brother of Myra and the late Andy, Tina, Gretta and Harry and a loving uncle to all his nephews and nieces. Funeral leaving his home, 14 Forest Park, on Tuesday at 9.20am to St. Eugene’s Cathedral for Requiem Mass at 10.00am. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations in lieu, if wished, to Ward 20 Altnagelvin Hospital. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul. Our Lady of Knock intercede for him.

A new book will be launched in Derry next week exploring the state of the north 20 years after the Good Friday Agreement.

'Between Sectarianism & Neo-liberalism' will be launched at the Rath Mor centre this Wednesday, October 3 at 7.30pm, where the guest speakers will be the independent councillors Gary Donnelly and Paul Gallagher.

Written to coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, the book argues that the seeds of recent problems were sown in the 1998 agreement.

The authors of the publication, Paul Stewart, Tommy McKearney, Gearoid O’Machail, Patricia Campbell and Brian Garvey bring many years of political experience and observation to bear on the subject matter.

Coming from a range of activist backgrounds in trade unionism, socialist republicanism, academia, healthcare and community development, they share a common interpretation of the northern state as a failed political entity that is beyond tinkering and reform.

The book is published by Vagabond Voices, an independent publisher founded in 2008 and based in Glasgow, Scotland. Copies of the book can be purchased online via the publisher or in a number of selected bookshops throughout Ireland

A 39 year old man has been charged with attempted murder and a 33 year old man has been charged with criminal damage, dangerous driving and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

The charges follow a disturbance in the Ballynagard Crescent area of Derryon Thursday night, September 27, in which the three men were arrested.

Both are due to appear at Derry Magistrates’ Court today, Monday 1 October.

As is normal procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the PPS.

A 34 year old man has been released on bail, pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Bob Blemmings said: “A disturbance is believed to have taken place at a property in the area at around 7.30pm on Thursday night, 27 September.

"This reportedly culminated in a vehicle being driven repeatedly at the front of the house, causing some damage to the gates and the building itself.

"Our enquiries to date would also suggest that at some point during the fracas, a crossbow may have been fired at the car.”

MONTGOMERY (nee Lang), Ruth, September 30, 2018 Peacefully at Altnagelvin Hospital
(surrounded by her loving family) dearly beloved wife of the late George, much loved mum of Heather, Dinah, Pauline, Geoff and Jonny, loving mother-in-law, devoted nana and great-nana, dearest sister of Abbie. (House Private) Funeral leaving her late home 26, Mosley Park, Kilfennan on Wednesday 3rd October at 1.30pm followed by a Service of Thanksgiving for her life in Ebrington Presbyterian Church at 2.00pm burial afterwards in Altnagelvin Cemetery. Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to Ebrington Presbyterian Church c/o Mr. Alwyn Wilson, 19, Melvin Court, Londonderry BT47 6HZ. Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by her entire family circle. Until the day breaks and the shadows flee away.

LYNN (née Jordan), September 30th 2018 (suddenly) at her home, 17 Mullagh Court, Maghera, Margaret Anne, devoted Mother of Dean, Keith, William, Thomas, Jason, Aaron, Clifford, Mervyn, Leslie and Leanne, a much adored Grandmother, dearly beloved Daughter of the late Des and Maud and dearest Sister of Sadie, Pamela, Wendy, Richard, Roddy and the late Leonie. Funeral arrangements later.

KLEWCHUK, Ronald James (Ron) Klewchuk, 30th September 2018, at hospital. Late of 2 Riverside South, Castledawson, Magherafelt. Beloved father of Troy, Paula and Natasha, devoted grandfather of Aaron, Michelle, Ian, Jessica, Chloe, Bobbi-Lee and Adam and great grandfather of Taylor and Kyla. Funeral service in Henry’s Funeral Parlour 100 Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EE on Friday 5th October at 11am Cremation afterwards at Roselawn Crematorium at 3.30pm. No flowers please, donations in lieu may be sent to James Henry Funeral Services (address above) for Community Defibrillator or N.I. Air Ambulance. Family and friends are welcome at Henry’s Funeral Parlour on Wednesday 3rd October 2018 between 3pm and 8pm. Lovingly remembered by Joan, Bertie, his family and family circle. “Gone from our home but not from our hearts”.

FALLS (née O'Neill), Katie, 30th September, 2018 at Park, Co Derry, Peacefully at her residence Katie, 6 Tereighter Road, Park , Co Derry dearly beloved wife of the late Bernard Falls R.I.P. and loving mother of Pat, Betty McAteer and son-in-law Anthony, loving grandmother of Martina, Eilish, Aisling, Bronagh and Laura, loving great-grandmother, sister of Mary and Bill. Funeral from her late residence at 10.20am on Wednesday 3rd October going to St. Mary's Church, Altinure for 11.00am requiem mass. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. Very deeply regretted and sadly missed by her son, daughter son-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister, brother, nieces, nephews and all the family circle. Our Lady of Knock pray for her. St Martha intercede for her. Family time please from 11.00pm to 11.00am.

PAUL, September 29, 2018 (suddenly) at his home, 25A Glenburn Park, Magherafelt, Ronald (Ronnie), son of the late Robert and Elizabeth, dearest brother of Yvonne, Maureen, Doreen and the late William, brother-in-law of Harold (Farrell) and also a dear uncle. House closed. Family and friends welcome in Garvin’s Funeral Home, 15 Ballyronan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6BP on Tuesday evening (October 2) from 7.00pm – 8.30pm. Funeral service in Garvin’s Funeral Home, Wednesday (October 3) at 1.00pm, followed by burial in Polepatrick Cemetery. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if desired, for NI Chest, Heart & Stroke payable to Garvin’s Funeral Service (Donations A/c). Will be sadly missed by his sisters and the entire Family Circle. “The Lord is my Shepherd.”

Missing person, Daniel Rodger has been located safe and well.

Daniel had gone missing from the Chapel Road area in Derry last Thursday but has been seen close to Forestside Shopping Centre in Belfast at approximately 4am the following morning.

Police said their Facebook post had been shared hundreds of times and seen by thousands of users.

Foyle PSNI said: "As always, thank you for your calls and private messages in relation to this youngster."

A Derry violin teacher has been found unanimously not guilty at the Crown Court in Derry of eight charges of behaving in an inappropriate sexual manner towards four primary school girls in two local primary schools.

Following an hour and a half hours of deliberations on the sixth day of the trial, the seven women and five men on the jury found Brian Bergin unanimously not guilty of committing the offences between August 2011 and May 2014.

The four complainants had alleged that the defendant had at times touched them inappropriately and told them to do the splits during violin classes.

Mr Bergin, a 60-year-old father of three from Brookhill in the Culmore area of the city, had described the allegations as fabrications. He had denied prosecution claims that he had committed the offences for his personal sexual gratification.

The defendant, who was a employed as a music teacher by the Western Education And Library Board for the last thirty years, was suspended from his post four years ago after the allegations were made against him.

In his evidence to the jury he repeated: "It did not happen, it did not happen".

He also told the jurors: " I have been accused of things I did not do. If I could just take this opportunity as well to say this has destroyed our lives for the last four and a half years; I am married with a wife and children - I would never harm a child".

Mr Bergin, who was accompanied by his wife during the six day long trial, showed no emotion as the jury foreman told Judge Philip Babington that they found Mr Bergin unanimously not guilty of the eight charges he had denied.

Members of the four complainants families, several of whom had given evidence during the trial, were in the public gallery of Courtroom 4 to hear the not guilty verdicts announced by the foreman.

A prosecution barrister told Judge Babington that two similar charges against the defendant remained on the books, not to be proceeded with without leave of the court or of the High Court.

Judge Babington told the jurors that such cases were very difficult. He then announced that Mr Bergin could be released.

Following his acquittal Mr Bergin declined to comment to the media.

Police are seeking criminals responsible for stealing a car from the Ballymagroarty area of Derry which was crashed and burned in the Bogside at the weekend.

The vehicle was stolen from O’Connor Court in Ballymagroarty on Sunday evening.

The PSNI confirmed that a red Ford Fiesta was stolen between 5pm - 11.30pm before being found ‘completely burnt out’.

It appears to have been driven down Westland Street before midnight where it crashed into safety railings at a zebra crossing on the Lecky Road.

The car was then set on fire and those responsible fled from the scene.

Police received a report regarding the theft of a car from the O’Connor Court area of Derry in the early hours of Monday morning.

A spokesperson added: “It is believed the red Ford Fiesta had been stolen sometime between 5.00pm and 11.30pm on Sunday 30th September.

“The vehicle was found completely burnt out in the Westland Street area at around 11.45pm on Sunday night.

“Enquiries are continuing and officers would ask anyone with any information to contact them at Strand Road on 101 quoting reference number 31 01/10/18.”

As part of their new 50 Years of Revolution, 50 Years On programme, the award-winning Museum of Free Derry will host a talk by local civil rights veteran Eamon Melaugh this Wednesday, October 3, at 7pm.

A packed programme of events was unveiled at last week’s launch event - a fascinating talk on the early movement by Michael McLoughlin, who was labelled Protestor #1 in government letters banning the north’s first civil rights march from Coalisland to Dungannon.

On Wednesday the Museum of Free Derry continues its October/November programme, marking half a century since some of the most important events of the civil rights campaign.

Fifty years to the day he and others received letters banning the 5 October march, activist and photographer Eamon Melaugh, a founding member of both the Derry Housing Action Committee (DHAC) and the Derry Unemployment Action Committee (DUAC), will reflect on the civil rights movement, 50 years on.

The event will be hosted by Irish News journalist Seamus McKinney and admission is free.

You can visit www.museumoffreederry.org to find out about other upcoming events.

A man has appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court charged with an assault on independent Councillor Darren O'Reilly.

Dean Beattie (25) of Glenowen Park in Derry appeared charged with possessing two knives, assault on his partner and the local Councillor, burglary with intent and driving with no insurance on September 28.

A police officer told the court that police were called to an ongoing disturbance in the Rosemount area.

There were reports of a male engaging in a disturbance in a property.

Police were then told that Beattie had left the house with two knives one being a machete type.

The officer said Beattie was approached by a local community representative and he was said to have brandished the weapons at him and said he was not afraid of him.

CCTV showed the defendant on a moped and a second male was seen dumping something. A search recovered two knives.

The officer said that Beattie had 68 previous convictions and opposed bail saying he had a 'poor bail history' and could interfere with witnesses.

He said police would be concerned with Beattie's behaviour.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley asked had either of the two alleged injured parties been injured and was told they hadn't.

He asked had either made a statement yet and again was told no.

The solicitor said it was 'a serious enough incident' but said bail could be managed.

District Judge Barney McElholm said that he was refusing bail on all grounds and remanded Beattie in custody until October 25.

Pictured above: Independent Councillor, Darren O'Reilly.

The SDLP will host a discussion this Saturday in the Museum of Free Derry on the fight for civil rights 50 years ago and the fight that continues today.

The discussion will include Labour MP Stephen Pound as a panellist who will share his views on the fight for civil rights 50 years on from the Civil Rights Movement.

Mr Pound, who is the Labour Shadow Minister for Northern Ireland, went viral last week after a video was made of him speaking in defence of the rights of citizens across Ireland from Brexit.

Mr Pound is expected to speak on the challenge of Brexit and the impact on the rights of citizens across Northern Ireland, including the impact on the Irish border and the Peace Process.

Commenting ahead of the event SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood said: “The Civil Rights Movement belongs to no one party - it belongs to the people. However, for us in the SDLP it has a special part in our history as our party was founded directly from the Civil Rights Movement.

“50 years on from when citizens marched together in the defence of equality and opportunity for all, it is right that we remember but also that we revive our sense of determination to deliver a future based on fairness for all peoples.

“As we face into the uncertainty of Brexit, here in Derry we will have an open discussion with voices from the Civil Rights Movement then and also with those of us committed to delivering civil rights now. This event is open to all.

"It is important that we come together to find solutions to the major threats that now face us. This is the time to renew our sense of purpose, our sense of community and deliver justice and opportunity for all.”

The event, Civil Rights Then and Now from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, Saturday, October 6, in the Museum of Free Derry. Panellists to include Stephen Pound MP, Councillor Mairia Cahill and Former Deputy First Minister Mark Durkan among others.

Pictured above: Stephen Pound on Channel 4 News - the clip went viral for his strong views on the impact of Brexit on the rights of citizens across Northern Ireland, including the effect on the Irish border and the Peace Process.

A Derry family whose beloved pet was mauled to death have donated £1,000 to local animal charities and praised the support and generosity of their community after the traumatic event.

The city was shocked by the story of Ozzy, a much-loved family pet, who was mauled for almost an hour as his 63-year-old owner looked on terrified and helpless.

Marie Doherty had been taking her three-year-old shih tzu, Ozzy, a walk in Bishop’s Field Park in July when he was viciously attacked by two large dogs that were not on a leash.

Little Ozzy was rushed to the vet and survived for a couple of days after losing his leg but, sadly, lost his fight for life.

Derry City and Strabane District Council confirmed in the wake of the attack that the two dogs responsible, who they described as a ‘Staffordshire Bulldog type’, had been euthanised.

Speaking to the Derry News, Michael, Marie’s son, who arrived at the scene after the attack and took Ozzy to the vet, said that the local community and one neighbour in particular had shown the family tremendous support and generosity following the shocking attack.

“Our neighbour, Catherine Higgins, was there in the park the night it happened and she set up a Go Fund Me page to pay for the vet’s bill, which came to £1,100,” he said.

“We wanted to give a special word of thanks to Catherine for what she did for my mum, she came up to visit her afterwards too.”

Michael said that there was £1,000 left over from the money donated by the local community and that the family felt it was only right to donate it to local animal charities.

“Given the nature of what happened, we wanted to donate the leftover money to the Rainbow Rehoming Centre and Pet FBI,” he said.

“We really want to thank the local community for their generosity and support; it just blew us all away.”

Michael said that Marie is considering getting another dog for companionship but still misses little Ozzy.

“We will know when the time is right; she needs a bit of time after what happened but I know the right wee dog will come along for her,” he added.

Pictured above: Marie with her much-loved pet, little Ozzy, and Marie and Michael presenting Caroline at the Rainbow Rehoming Centre with a cheque for £500. The family will present another cheque of £500 this week to Pet FBI.

Derry will ask clubs for nominations for a new county senior hurling manager in 'the coming weeks', following Collie McGurk's decision not to stay on for a third season.

McGurk led Derry to Nicky Rackard and Ulster U21 success in 2017 but lost out to Kildare in the Christy Ring semi-final this season.

Speaking after the game in Inniskeen, McGurk admitted he was taking 'a few days' to contemplate his future in the post.

It is understood that McGurk met with county officials on Sunday to inform them of this decision to step down.

As a player he was part of Derry's back to back Ulster SHC winning teams at the turn of the millennium and took over as boss from Dunloy man Tom McLean at the start of the 2017 season.

"We would like to sincerely thank Collie, his management and backroom teams, and all the players who have represented their county during this period," read a statement from Derry GAA.

"Nominations for the position of Derry senior hurling manager will be sought from our clubs in the coming weeks."

Derry minor hurling manager Kevin Kelly has ruled himself out of the contention. Along with fellow selectors Ryan O'Neill and Martin Birt, they steered Derry to the Celtic Challenge title this year. Kelly confirmed his intention to remain in the post, but awaits ratification.

Elsewhere, Slaughtneil hurling manager Michael McShane confirmed to the County Derry Post that he has been nominated for the Antrim senior hurling manager job.

The Emmets will face Ballycran in the Ulster SHC semi-final on Sunday, October 28 in Corrigan Park at 2.30.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging women to be aware that lumps aren’t the only sign of breast cancer to look out for.

The call comes at the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as the PHA highlights the less well-known signs of breast cancer by partnering with Menarys, who will be hosting a unique set of mannequins within a number of their stores’ lingerie departments.

The lifelike mannequins depict some lesser-known signs of breast cancer to raise awareness and encourage women to keep an eye out for them.

Dr Louise Herron, Consultant in Public Health at the PHA, said: “While breast cancer can occur at any age, the risk of developing it increases as women get older.

In fact, most breast cancers occur in women over 50, so we are displaying the mannequins in a number of Menarys stores as an opportunity to highlight in a uniquely realistic way some of the key things women need to look for, and to provide leaflets with further information and advice.”

Research commissioned by the PHA revealed that when asked about signs or symptoms of breast cancer, two out of three women identified ‘a lump or thickening in your breast’ as a possible sign and almost half recognised that ‘a lump or thickening under your armpit’ may also be a sign.

However, there was low awareness that skin changes, such as dimpling or puckering, or changes to the nipple such as a discharge, bleeding from the nipple or the nipple, could also indicate breast cancer.

As a result, the PHA produced a set of mannequins taken from casts of women, which were painted to reflect these less well-known signs, for a breast cancer awareness film. These are now being used to increase awareness among women.

Dr Herron added: “Many women know that if they find a lump in their breast they need to get this checked out, but lumps aren’t the only sign of breast cancer. Any changes which are not normal for you should be investigated straight away by your GP. Don’t be embarrassed or ignore any potential signs as the positive news is that 9 out of 10 women in Northern Ireland survive breast cancer when it is caught and treated early.”

The PHA has developed a range of social media messages to support the initiative, along with posters and leaflets which will be available during October and November from GP surgeries and pharmacies across Northern Ireland, a number of cancer charities, and Health and Social Care Trust Resource Units.

Stephen McCammon, Menarys Managing Director, said: “Menarys is delighted to be partnering with the Public Health Agency for the launch of this breast cancer awareness programme. This is a cause close to the hearts of many of our customers and staff, as we all know someone who has been affected by cancer in some way.

"We are committed to doing everything possible to emphasise how important being breast aware is. We will be displaying the mannequins in a number of our stores throughout the month of October that will highlight three classic symptoms of breast cancer, and by doing so, we believe that we can carry that message to a wide range of women in the target age group.”

The film was previously broadcast as part of the Be Cancer Aware mass media campaign, and the increased number of urgent GP referrals over the campaign period led to an additional 63 women being diagnosed with breast cancer compared with the same period in the previous year, an increase of 44% (206 v 143).

To view the mannequins go to www.pha.site/bcaresources. This website provides information about cancer signs and symptoms, explains what to do if you’re concerned, and signposts people to recommended sources of support or further information.

It is important to note while breast cancer is much more common in women, it can also affect men, so anyone noticing changes in their breast should seek the advice of their GP.

SWEENEY, The death has taken place of the late Malachy Peter Sweeney, Died 27 October 2018, peacefully at Loughrea, Co.Galway Beloved father of David, Dominic and Louise, Peter's remains will be removed from St Mary's Church Creggan after Requiem Mass at 10am to the City cemetery, Wednesday, 3rd October 2018, On His Soul Sweet Jesus Have Mercy, Our Lady of Lourdes Pray for Him.

O'NEILL, (Ballymaguigan) October 1, 2018. Michael R.I.P. Beloved husband of Anne and loving father of Michael, Denise (Johnston), Julie (McSkimming), Sean and Bernard, brother of the late Rita (Duggan), Paddy, Barney and Susan (O'Donnell). Funeral from his home, 38 Waterfoot Road on Wednesday October 3rd at 10.15am for 11.00am Requiem Mass in Church of St Trea, Newbridge. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul. Deeply regretted by his wife, sons, daughters, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews, nieces and extended family circle.

LAING, Henry Morris, 2nd October 2018, peacefully at home 52 Ardnabrockey. Beloved Husband of the late Mary Christina and loving Father of Iain, Michelle and Hester. Dear Father-in-law of Joanne and Vicky and a devoted Granda of Poppy-Ellen, Robert, Charlotte, Daniel and Kate. Funeral leaving his home at 10.30am on Saturday 6th October for service in Roselawn Crematorium at 1pm. Family Flowers only, Donations in lieu if wished to The Foyle Hospice, 61 Culmore Road, Londonderry BT48 8JE. House Private from 9.30pm please. Deeply regretted by his loving family circle. Safe in the arms of Jesus.

CLARKE (née Murray), October 2nd 2018, (suddenly) at her home, 10 Carson Villas, Upperlands, Isobel, dearly loved Wife of Arthur, much loved Sister of Madge, Mabel, James, Paul and the late Clive, a dear Sister-in-Law of Evelyn, David, Carol, Shirley, Pamela and the late Andy and Canon Martin and a dearly loved Aunt and Great Aunt. House strictly private. All welcome at D. Watters Funeral Home, Tobermore on Wednesday evening, (October 3rd) from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. Funeral from D. Watters Funeral Home on Thursday (October 4th) at 1.15pm to Culnady Presbyterian Church for service at 2.00pm, followed by burial in the adjoining Churchyard. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if desired, to NI Chest, Heart and Stroke, payable to D. Watters (Donations A/c), 55 Main Street, Tobermore Magherafelt BT45 5PP. Lovingly remembered and very sadly missed by her sorrowing Husband and Family Circle.

There were reports this morning that a pedestrian was receiving treatment in the Buncrana Road area of Derry.

One eye-witness said that they saw a person lying on the road.

First responders were in attendance.

The incident caused some traffic disruption.

It is unclear at this stage what happened.

There was heavy traffic in the area at the time with many motorists on their way to work.

With less than a month left to the Foyle Clubs second annual beach race on Portrush East Strand on the weekend of October 27 and 28, just on time for the half term break, and a great family weekend out.

Details of the racing were announced at a Press Launch recently attended by Councillor Norman Hillis of Causeway Coast & Glens Council, and Peter Thompson head of Tourism & Recreation, where both spoke of the importance of the event after last years success in attracting people to the area in the ‘off season’, as well as the spectacle and fun to be had watching off road motorcycling close up.

The weekend will begin with signing on Friday at the Atlantic Hotel, followed by 5 races on Saturday and 4 on Sunday for each class of Premier, Semi Expert, Clubman MX1, Clubman MX2, Quads & Sidecars (tides permitting), trophies and awards will be presented in the Atlantic Hotel on Saturday night, and on Sunday evening on the promenade, there will be 130 competitors spread across the various classes.

The Foyle Club would like to thank the Causeway & Glens Council for their help and cooperation, and the sponsors of the various events are: Sign It. Overall Sponsor, Premier MX1 HTM Offroad Motorcycles, Semi Expert Nutt Travel, Clubman MX1 & MX2 Chilltec, Quads MBS Motorhomes and P & D radio supplies.

HTM Motorcycles are also sponsoring the Overall Cup for the best solo motorcycle rider over the two days

Entry will be free to all spectators, and close, fun racing is guaranteed.

With many of the Harriers focused on next month’s Dublin Marathon, last weekend was all about the long miles.

First up on Saturday was the Annaghmore Running Festival - weather conditions were perfect and with over 300 runners in kids race, 5k, 10k, Half Marathon and 18m events, there was something for everyone though.

Connor Martin led the field home for an excellent win in the 18m and fresh from his Berlin Marathon experience, Andrew Newell turned his hand to the 5k and picked up another win.

Stephen Lynch also had a fine pb run in the 10k to continue his great progress. The Harriers would like to thank Annaghmore for a brilliant event, very well marshalled, excellent water and feeding stations and the post-race BBQ and refreshments were first class.

18 Mile Results:
Connor Martin 1.54.49 (1st Overall)
Paul McLaughlin 2.00.21
Amanda Donnelly 2.21.43
Kieran Campbell 2.27.11
John Canavan 2.32.55
Richard Fox 2.34.21
Tony O’Neill 2.34.56
Doc Martin 2.34.57
Steven Dornan 2.35.12
Karen McGuigan 2.37.02
Paula Glasgow 2.37.22
Russell Bell 2.38.24
Karen Devlin 2.39.57
Kay Devlin 2.39.57
Michael McCrory 2.41.01
Catherine Farley 2.43.12
Gillian Dunseath 2.43.14
5K Results:
Andrew Newell 17.58 (1st Overall)

10K Results
Stephen Lynch 49.10pb.

On Sunday, another team of Dublin bound Harriers tackled the tough hilly Donegal East 3/4 Marathon - 19.6 miles - unfortunately weatherwise they were as lucky, with wind and rain adding to an already challenging route.

Results:
Norman Fuller 2.52
Damien Coey 2.53
Joyce McMullan 3.34
Melissa Glasgow 3.34
Jacinta Morgan 3.43
Maureen Mallon 3.49.

There was still plenty of shorter distances covered as well, starting with the local Parkrun.

MUSA parkrun, Cookstown Results:
Fergal McElroy 20.01
Tanya Quinn 22.11 (2nd lady)
Martin Kolbohm 22.37
Peter Mitchell 22.57
Jane Thom 24.06
Hannah Glasgow 25.42
Callum Moore 25.50
Barry Moore 25.52
Ellen Glasgow 26.00
Maureen Mallon 27.46
Melissa Glasgow 28.45pb
Carmel Fuller 30.30
Joan Watson 31.29.

Elsewhere, Brian Taggart had a successful weekend winning The Brocagh 10k in a time of 35.52 and taking 2nd place the next day at the Granny Rafferty’s to Galbally 10k.

Galbally 10k Results:
Brian Taggart 35.45 (2nd)
Martin Kolbohm 48.52
Nicola Gillespie 49.05.

Saturday also seen a top class field compete in the prestigious Bangor 10k, there were fine runs from Fred Devlin 37.59 and Mark Reid who matched his time from last year 41.15.

Man due to appear at Derry court tomorrow morning charged over incident involving two knives in the Rosemount area of Derry on Friday night

DEATH NOTICES: Sunday, September 30th, 2018

TRAFFIC UPDATE: Police warn of long traffic tailbacks on the Foreglen Road due to ongoing roadworks and hurling finals at Owenbeg

DEATH NOTICES (UPDATED): Sunday, September 30th, 2018

New book to be launched in Derry next week exploring the state of the north 20 years after the Good Friday Agreement

A man has been charged with attempted murder and another with attempted grievous bodily harm after car was driven at house in Derry and crossbow fired at car

UPDATED: DEATH NOTICES: Monday, October 1st, 2018.

FOUND: Youth from Derry reported missing last week has been located safe and well

Derry violin teacher found unanimously 'not guilty' of inappropriate sexual behaviour towards schoolgirls

Police seeking information after car stolen from Ballymagroarty and torched in the Bogside at the weekend

Eamon Melaugh to host talk on 50th anniversary of Civil Rights movement at Museum of Free Derry this week

Man who threatened Derry councillor with knives when he attempted to stop him assaulting partner is denied bail

SDLP host Civil Rights discussion featuring Labour MP who went viral last week for strong views about the effect of Brexit on Ireland

Derry family who lost much-loved pet donate £1,000 to local animal charities

GAA: Derry on the search for a new senior hurling manager after Collie McGurk steps down

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: be aware that lumps aren’t the only sign of breast cancer

DEATH NOTICES: Tuesday, 2nd October, 2018.

Breaking news: pedestrian attended to following incident during morning rush-hour

MOTORSPORT: Countdown to fireworks at Halloween down at the 'Port

ATHLETICS: Sperrin getting in the miles ahead of the Dublin marathon