Chatterbox - Mid Antrim - February

ChatterboxMid Antrim

Antrim • Ballymena • Surrounding Villages

Your LocalAdvertiser

February 2015 • www.chatterboxni.co.uk • Tel: 028 2568 9029

Delivered to 34,500 Homes each month FR

EE

• HOUSE SALES • RENTALS• MORTGAGE & PROTECTION

BALLYMENA BRANCH21-23 CHURCH STREET, BALLYMENA

028 2565 7700

Moving? We have a proven plan which

would sell your house for the best price!Call 028 2565 7700

to find out how5 X 1 Hour lessons for

£75

10 X 1 Hour lessons for

£150

Driving Academy

INSIDE THIS MONTH

.MOTORING .BIZARRE & GOSSIP .FOOD & DRINK .COMPETITIONS .SERVICES

NEWSAll the local news on your doorstep - Pages 2-8

HEALTH & BEAUTYLearn more about keeping yourself in check - Pages 10 -13

PUZZLESKeep your mind active and test yourself with our puzzles and crosswords - Page 20

SPORTLocal football, sport and International sport - Page 22

Nil advance payment on Golf Match.* The Golf.

With nil advance payment. (Nil worries.)

*�Offer�available�on�Golf�Match�1.4�TSI�122PS�BlueMotion�Technology�(3dr),� 1.4�TSI�122PS�BlueMotion�Technology,�1.6�TDI�105PS�BlueMotion�Technology�and�2.0�TDI�150PS�BlueMotion�Technology�models�until�March�31st,�2015.�Subject� to�availability.�To�qualify� for� the�Motability�Scheme,�you�must�be� in�receipt�of� the�Higher�Rate�Mobility�Component�of� the�Disability�Living�Allowance,� the�Enhanced�Rate�of� the�Mobility�Component�of� the�Personal� Independence�Payment� (PIP),�War�Pensioners’�Mobility�Supplement�or� the�Armed�Forces�Independence�Payment�(AFIP).�Standard�EU�Test�figures�for�comparative�purposes�and�may�not�reflect�real�driving�results.�Official� fuel�consumption� in�mpg�(litres/100km)�for� the�Golf�range:�urban�41.5� (6.8) –�74.3� (3.8);�extra�urban�62.8� (4.5) –�94.2� (3.0);�combined�53.3� (5.8) –�88.3� (3.2).�CO2�emissions�123�–�85g/km.�

Edwin MayLarne Road, Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT42 3HB. Telephone: (028) 2565 5209.www.edwinmay.volkswagen.co.uk

Last winter, the British Trust for Ornithology’s (BTO) Garden Bird Feeding Survey saw very low numbers of birds using garden feeding stations because of the mild weather and abundance of natural food. What was most surprising, however, was that even our Robins seemed to abandon us. Robins are one of our most familiar and well-loved garden birds, found in nine out of ten gardens over the winter.

They are famous for their winter song and for maintaining a territory year-round, and no winter garden scene would be complete without a Robin. However, last winter Britain’s favourite companion appeared to abandon gardens. Don’t be caught out in the cold this winter, so why not turn to page 7 for Waveney Tyres depot in Ballymena who now provide home heating options or order your home oil from Topaz Energy online, seen on page 18.

It must be cold, the Robins are here

Turn to Page 6to win a guitar

NEW SHOWROOM

NOWOPEN

PENNYBRIDE INDUSTRIALESTATE BALLYMENA

TURN TO PAGE 19 FOR MORE

THE NETWORKCENTRE

For free consultation in areas such as:

AccountancyLaw

Financial AdviceMortgage and Insurance Advice

Business CoachingDesign & Print

ITCleaning Services

SignageCar leasing

Business Banking

Come along to our event for a chat and a cup of Tea or CoffeeThursday 5th March 2015 at the Adair Arms from 8am until 2pm

register at [email protected]

“Bringing together local experts for local people”

Do you run a business or just started? We are here to help

Issue 7- February 2015

2 | NEWS

CHATTERBOX List your business @ www.chatterboxni.co.uk

THESE BUSINESSES ARE REACHING 34,500 HOMES Email [email protected] or call 028 2568 9029 to be a Chatterbox

Mr Robin Swann MLA, the Ulster Unionist Party’s Westminster candidate for North Antrim, has challenged the DUP health minister to “give cast iron guarantees that funding will be provided to protect staff and patients at the Northern Health Trust’s hospitals” after it emerged that threats to those staff and patients have doubled in the past three years. Assemblyman Swann, who is UUP Chief Whip and Chairman of the Stormont Employment and Learning Committee, issued his challenge after receiving figures as part of written questions to the minister. Those figures showed 12 in-patients have been removed by the PSNI from 2012 to 2014 concerning the Northern Trust’s Antrim Area, Causeway, Ross Thompson and Holy well Hospitals. In 2012, one person was removed from Antrim, and two from Holywell. The same happened again in both hospitals in 2013. But in 2014, that figure jumped to six people – three from Antrim, and one each from Causeway, Holywell and Ross Thompson, prompting Mr Swann to issue his challenge. The “startling statistics” came to light after Mr Swann posed the following written question to the DUP health minister, asking him: “how many times an in-patient, who has become a threat to staff or other in-patients, has been removed from the premises by hospital security staff or the PSNI, in each Northern Health and Social Care Trust hospital in each of the last three years?” In a follow-up question, Assemblyman Swann pressed the minister “what action is taken when an in-patient who becomes a threat to staff or other in-patients cannot be removed from the premises by hospital security staff or the PSNI, due to medical reasons?” In his response to Mr Swann, the minister said: “HSC Trusts adopt a risk-based approach to in-patients who are deemed to be a threat to staff or other in-patients and who cannot be removed from the hospital premises due to medical reasons.

“There can be physiological and psychological reasons as to why a patient may become threatening to staff and these would require investigation and care/treatment. “This risk-based approach involves a range of measures which Trusts can implement such as: moving the patient who is deemed to be a threat to a secure room; assessment of the patient by a senior doctor/consultant on duty, and if necessary the patient can be sedated under the Trust’s rapid tranquilisation and safe sedation protocol; one to one nursing care where specialist psychological treatment is required; where possible, security staff will provide dedicated security cover for the ward to ensure the safety of other patients, staff and visitors; where possible security staff/PSNI will remain with the patient until the threat de-escalates,” the minister told Assemblyman Swann. Mr Swann added: “These figures cannot be dismissed with a flippant analysis that it was only a dozen folk who were removed. “Each of these scenarios posed a threat to staff and patients and required the assistance of the police. That’s 12 cases too many. “Our hospitals must be seen as safe and secure environments for staff and patients alike. The minister must give a cast iron guarantee that appropriate funding be earmarked specifically for the protection of staff and patients. “A situation cannot be allowed to emerge where armed guards have to patrol the corridors and wards of our hospitals. This alarming trend of an increase in in-patients being removed by the PSNI must be nipped in the bud,” said Assemblyman Swann.

SWANN URGES TIGHTER SECURITY AT HOSPITALSThese figures cannot be dismissed with a flippant analysis that it was only a dozen folk who were removed|

MR ROBIN SWANN MLAULSTER UNIONIST PARTYNORTH ANTRIM 07801829553

NEW TYRES FROM175/65195/65205/55225/45225/40

R14R15R16R17R18

£35£36£38£43£45

5 Broadway Ave, Ballymena, BT43 7AA

PART WORN TYRES

FROMONLY £20

FREE

Fitting&

Balancing

FREE

While stocks Last

07922 746 084

Part WornTyres

£205 Broadway Ave, Ballymena, BT43 7AA

From only

New Tyres From

While stocks Last

07922 746 084

Part WornTyres


From only

New Tyres From028 2564 1980


NEWS | 3



Lewis Allison a student at Cambridge House Grammar School in Ballymena poses with his two gold medals. Lewis is a Ballymena Sea Cadet, he won his two medals at the Royal Victoria Dock in London at the National Sea Cadet event. Fourteen year old Lewis joined the sea cadets two years ago and during these two years he learned how to kayak. Speaking about his time in the cadets Lewis has said he thoroughly enjoys it. Talking about his experience he states he liked representing his country in the National event and hopes he gets the same results when he returns later in the year.

CAMBRIDGE CADET CAPTURES GOLD

SLEDDING IS ‘SNOW’ GOOD

Pictured clockwise from top left Torri Lee Cahoon, Suzie and Shaun the sheep fight over the last bucket of food, Rachel Kelly and Robbie McDowell

bluebirdChildrenswear & Gifts

Stockists of Childrenswear & Gifts

Ages Birth - 16 years old Boys & Girls

Brands Include:

Animal, Billieblush, Garcia, Joules, Rosalita Senorita, UBS2, ZAZA

Outfits suitable for special occasions

i.e confirmations - weddings

Tel: 028 2565 4361

55 Broughshane Street, Ballymena, BT43 6EB

L Donnelly & Co Solicitors

Ann Kirk LL B18 Greenvale Street

BallymenaTel 028 2564 7967

For all your legal needswe provide a professional,

friendly service


4 | NEWS



REFLECTIONS OF THEPAST BALLYMENA

BALLYMENA TOWN HALL

HARRYVILLE

BALLYMENA TOWN CENTRE

** £5,000 is available on all 262PS engines regardless of trim, 204PS engine attracts a £3,000 off offer. *Deposit contribution available to customers who purchase their car with Solutions Personal Contract Plan from Volkswagen Financial Services. When you buy on Solutions PCP, at the end of the agreement there are three options: i) retain the vehicle: pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle, subject to status. †Up to 3 years/30,000 miles (whichever comes first) when purchased with Solutions PCP. Offers available for vehicles ordered by February 27th, 2015. Subject to agreed annual mileage. Available to 18’s and over. Move up! and Polo offers available for vehicles ordered by 31st March 2015 and delivered by 30th June 2015. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Finance subject to status. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost Volkswagen Financial Services. Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them.

Model shown New Passat GT with optional 19-inch ‘Verona’ alloy wheels and metallic paint: £26,335. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Official fuel consumption figures for the Volkswagen model range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 23.9 (11.8) – 74.3 (3.8); extra urban 42.2 (6.7) – 108.6 (2.6); combined 32.2 (8.5) – 91.1 (3.1). Combined CO2 emissions 224 – 82g/km. Official fuel consumption figures for the e-up! in mpg: n/a.

Edwin MayLarne Road, Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT42 3HB. Telephone: (028) 2565 5209.www.edwinmay.volkswagen.co.uk

RepresentativeSolutionsPersonalContractPlanexamplebasedon6,000milesperannum for a Moveup!1.060PS3-door.

Duration 4 years

Retailcashprice £9,607.35

Depositcontribution £900.00

Customerdeposit £129.00

48 monthly payments £129.00

Acceptance fee payable withfirstpayment £125.00

Optionalfinalpayment £4,207.50

Option to purchase fee payable withfinalpayment £60.00

Totalamountpayable £11,488.50

Amountofcredit £8,578.35

Excess mileage (per mile) 4.4p

Rateofinterest 6.57%fixed

RepresentativeAPR 7.3%APR

RepresentativeSolutionsPersonalContractPlanexamplebasedon6,000milesperannum for a PoloSE1.05-door.

Duration 4 years

Retailcashprice £13,215.00

Depositcontribution £1,500.00

Customer deposit Nil

48monthlypayments £169.00

Acceptance fee payable withfirstpayment £125.00

Optionalfinalpayment £5,670.00

Option to purchase fee payable withfinalpayment £60.00

Totalamountpayable £15,669.74

Amountofcredit £11,387.26

Excess mileage (per mile) 4.4p

Rateofinterest 6.61%fixed

RepresentativeAPR 7.2%APR

Moveup!1.060PS3-doorFrom£9,607 Air conditioning Central Locking System

PoloSE1.05-doorFrom£13,215 15-inch ‘Lyon’ alloy wheels Composition Media System

£129 CUSTOMER

DEPOSIT £129 PER MONTH

£1,500TOWARDS

YOUR FINANCE DEPOSIT* £169

PER MONTH

Moveup!with£900towards yourfinancedeposit.*

PoloSEwith£1,500towards yourfinancedeposit.*

TheSUVHalf-TermEvent,13th–27thFebruary.

Treatyourself,notthekids.

Tiguan: Save £2,750 towards a finance deposit*

and get three years free servicing† at 4.9%APRrepresentative. Available with Solutions PCP.

Touareg: Save £5,000** and get three years free servicing† with 7.0%APRrepresentative. Available with Solutions PCP.


NEWS | 5




6 | NEWS


Moore Electrics- your Local Euronics Store -

028 2564 7770 www.mooreelectrics.co.ukwhere the personal touch still counts

38-42 Ballymoney Street Ballymena, Co. Antrim

SAVE £50- 6K Load- 1200 spin- A+++ Energy Rated- 2 Year Warranty

Was £299Now£249

SAVE £50- 7KG Load- 1400 spin- A+++ Energy Rated- 15 minute quick wash

Was £399Now£349

SAVE £50- 7KG VentedTumble Dryer- Sensor Control- 2 Year Warranty

Was £329Now£279

SAVE £30- 7KG CondenserTumble Dryer- Sensor Dryer- B Energy Rated

Was £429Now£399

SAVE £50- 12 Place Setting Dishwasher- 5 Programmes- 1/2 Load Sensor

Was £299Now£249

SAVE £30- 60cm Fridge Freezer- Frost Free- 4* Rating- 2 Year Warranty

Was £429Now£399

FREE DELIVERY PROVINCE WIDEOPEN LATE THUR & FRI TO 9PM


MID ANTRIM CHATTERBOX IN CONJUNCTION WITH CAMERONS MUSIC

23-29 Broughshane St, Ballymena Co Antrim BT43 6EB

QUESTIONIn what floor is the music

department in camerons store

Answer: _______

Cort are one of the largest manufacturers of guitars in the world and have been making quality instruments for

55 years. Prices range from £100 to £5000

Your chance to win a CORT acoustic guitar complete with Cort gig bag with the value of £109

WIN

Ts & Cs Apply Closing date 9/3/15 Completed Entries to be sent to Chatterboox 58 Albert Road Carrickfergus BT38 8AE

Find us on Facebook CAMERONS MUSIC-DEPT “LIKE” the competition page to enter also

OVER 14 YEARS OF AGE ONLY


NEWS | 7


THE PROPERTY MARKET IS MOVING!...ARE YOU?LIST YOUR PROPERTY WITH NO UP-FRONT FEES - CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE

VALUATION AND THE MOST COMPETITIVE RATES IN TOWN

CALL LAURA OR VICTORIA FOR FURTHER DETAILS OR TO ARRANGE A FREE VALUATION ON 028 25631170

2 The Olde Close, Cullybackey

6 Knowehead Road, Broughshane

17 Houston Park, Broughshane

46 Drumagrove Road, Clough

6 Sandhurst Manor, Galgorm

CAPITAL HOMES, 45 WELLINGTON ST, BALLYMENA, BT43 6ADTEL 028 2563 1170 EMAIL [email protected]

WAVENEY TYRES

Cosey FlameGrade A Colombian CoalSmokeless CoalPremium Household CoalDoublesSlackBlocksHardwood (Beech, Ash & Oak)PeatSticksPeat Brigette

Ton Bag’s HardwoodTon Bag’s SoftwoodPack of 6 Blue Roll’sFirelighters

New & Quality Part Worn Tyres

12A Crankill Road, Ballymena, BT43 5NR

Call in for a FREE Tread & Pressure CheckCall: 07802 733350 or

07749 539797

Typical Pricing for New Tyres

175|65|14 £35195|65|15 £36205|55|16 £38225|45|17 £43225|40|18 £45

Part Worn Tyres From

£15.00 13”

All Prices Quoted include Fitting & Balancing

Waveney Fuel’sPrice List

£7.50/bag£7/bag

£7/bag£6/bag

£6/bag£5/bag

£2.50/bag£4/bag

£3/bag£2/bag

£3.50/sleeve or 3 for £10

£55£40

£6£2/box or

3 for £5Boxes of 24

We also stock a selection of Dog Food

(Nutts about pets)

Enquiries Tel: 07902 753989We will not be beaen on price!

Waveney Car Wash

Traditional Sponge WashLocl Family Run

Wash & Rinse CarsFamily Cars & 4x4sVans

MOT wash from

Mini ValetFull Valet

£3.00£4.00£5.00

£8.00

£25.00£50.00


Mr Robin Swann MLA, the Ulster Unionist Party’s Westminster candidate for North Antrim, has challenged the Alliance Employment and Learning Minister to “urgently convene talks between Stanmillis and St Mary’s colleges in Belfast to guarantee the future of relevant teacher training in Northern Ireland”. Assemblyman Swann, who is UUP Chief Whip and Chairman of the Stormont Employment and Learning Committee, issued his challenge to the Alliance Minister during a debate on the issue in the Chamber. Mr Swann added: “Northern Ireland has always enjoyed a terrific reputation for producing quality teachers whose expertise is recognised across the globe. “The crisis facing teacher training in Northern Ireland must be urgently solved otherwise in the future, we may face a brain drain of bright students leaving the Province to get their teaching qualifications either in another part of the UK, the Irish Republic, or further afield. “Central to solving this crisis is ensuring that Stranmillis and St Mary’s colleges work closely with each other. We must also work to combat the Sinn Fein schooling agenda which is cutting the number of schools in Northern Ireland, thereby reducing the need for teachers and cutting jobs.”

Questioning the Minister, Mr Swann said: “Thank you for saying that you are open to the alternatives that are put forward. In a recent adjournment debate, you indicated that Stranmillis and St Mary's were not talking at this stage: have you done anything to get them round the table to try to progress this?” Responding to Assemblyman Swann, the Alliance DEL Minister noted: “We have had meetings with all the providers, building on previous engagement with the stakeholders. “I regret that, for various reasons, there are not ongoing discussions between the two university colleges at this time. We are considering how best to take forward the next phase, and it may well involve round-table discussions with all the providers. The precise format is still to be determined. “One of the other key considerations is to ensure that a reformed teacher training system can provide for a diverse and pluralist education system and society, including provision for faith-based education. “Northern Ireland will clearly continue to have faith-based primary and secondary schools. I want to make it very clear that any potential reforms to teacher training will not pose a threat to that,” the Alliance Minister assured Assemblyman Swann.

SWANN CALLS FOR ACTION OVER TEACHER TRAININGNI has always enjoyed a terrififc reputation for producing quality teachers|

www.dunsillyhotel.com

CALL TODAY (028) 9446 2929

MOTHER’S DAY Sunday 15 March 2015

5 Course Sunday Carvery with Gift for Mum

Adults: £21.95 Kids: £9.95

DINING AT DUNSILLY Extensive Grill Menu Served All Day Light Snacks to Main Meals Chef’s Daily Specials Available Using Finest Local Produce Private Rooms Available for Events

and Celebrations Coffee Bar open Mon—Fri Free unlimited WiFi


8 | NEWS


www.malone-roofingbelfast.co.uk

Repairs & Replacements Slating & Tiling Insurance Claim Approved Leadwork

Flatroofs Chimney Repairs & Repointing Guttering Fascias & Sofits Leak Detection

Property Repairs & Maintenance

Office:028 9068 6724

Mobile:07955 011362

336A Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 6GH

Looking for Quality, Honesty, Reliability?


Braid Amateur Boxing Club welcomed a knockout visitor - former world champion Barry McGuigan - to its Ballymena clubrooms last week. The former world featherweight champion-turned-promoter created a real buzz when he visited the club’s Ballykeel base.“Braid ABC was set to host a visit last year to mark the club’s 10th anniversary, that visit had to be postponed and we had felt that the visit would not take place,” explained Braid head coach John McLeister.“Barry, true to his word, contacted the club through Ian Paisley, who has always been an advocate of the club, and within a few days, Barry made the journey to Ballymena.” Barry spent time with the coaches and the boxers and watched as club Boxers Corey Bradshaw, Anthony O’Rawe and Chris Richmond sparred boxers from Canal boxing academy Lisburn. McGuigan, who now trains and promotes world bantamweight champion Carl Frampton, was on hand to give the boys tips and advice during the workout and spoke highly of the talent on display. Mr Paisley commented “It was such a pleasure to welcome Barry to Ballymena. We discussed several months ago about finding a time for Barry to come up to the Braid and its great that we’ve managed to make it happen. This was a special night for the club, the boxers, myself and I trust Barry. He stayed for a lot longer than he had to and we are very appreciative that he did so.”Former Ulster bantamweight Senior Champion Anthony O’Rawe was one of the boxers Barry spent time with and clearly saw the potential that he has, Corey Bradshaw a 16 year old champion welterweight

boxer also had Barry in his corner and Barry described Corey as “something special” which will give the local boxers a great lift. “Barry spent more time with the boys than any of us anticipated, it wasn’t long before he had the coaching pads on and was drilling instruction to Anthony on the pads, whilst watching Corey and Chris sparring,” said Mr McLeister. A presentation was made on behalf of the club by its youngest member, Jamie Beverland from Cullybackey. Barry was in no hurry away and openly discussed Carl’s training and sparring programme and informally shared memories of his early career and encouraged the boys to stick at it and train hard. “It was great to be in his company and I know the lads were very inspired by the visit,” said John. Ian Paisley, who co-ordinated the visit on behalf of the club and who has always been a fervent supporter, spoke highly of the club which is always good to hear.Ian took time out of his busy schedule and used his political influence in a practical way, ensuring that the boxers had a special night to remember. The club is only too grateful to both Ian and Barry for spending time in our Club and with the team,” added John.

BRAID ABC WELCOMES BOXING LEGENDBarry McGuigan and Ian Paisley visit Braid ABC and show appreciation to the fighters|

LEE MATTHEWS MEET AND GREET IN CAMERONS

www.beggsandpartners.com

Belfast 028 9023 5791Ballymena 028 2564 5121Newtownards 028 9182 6680

Maghera 028 7964 5599Portadown 028 3839 2000Lisburn 028 9262 1133

BATHROOMS PLUMBING HEATING COMMERCIAL

BATHROOM CREATIONS

YOU’LL WANT TO TAKE HOME

While stocks Last

07922 746 084

Part WornTyres


From only

New Tyres From

5 Broadway Ave, Ballymena, BT43 7AA

TOP QUALITY PART WORN TYRES

FROMONLY

£20028 2564 1980


10 | NEWS


Web: www.LBreakthrough.co.uk - watch our 5 minute video online!facebook.com/learningbreakthroughni

T: 028 90364000M: 07790 245 145

e: [email protected]: www.LBreakthrough.co.uk

Just some of the many symptoms that can be helped:1. Difficulty reading or understanding what has been read.

2. Lack of spacing when writing

3. Disruptive / Aggressive behaviour

4. Difficulty learning and retaining spellings.

1 Merville Garden VillageShore Road

NewtownabbeyBT37 9TF

5. Gets frustrated very easily.

6. Struggles to organise homework or tasks.

7. Knows what to say but can’t get the words out.

8. Difficulty getting to sleep

Are you concerned about your child’s progress in school?Contact us to book a FREE evaluation


Our 10 year old Daughter’s mind used to be in chaos. Homework especially proved to be a real challenge. Whenever Sophie came up against something that she didn’t understand she would have a severe frustration tantrum. The homework would have to be cancelled altogether and the whole family was affected for the rest of the evening. In the mornings, if her Dad asked her to do a couple of things she would fly off the handle, cover her head with her hands and say “I can’t do all of that, stop talking!” Apart from all of this going on she found it impossible to read, spell, was very disorganised, had no concept of time or the need to hurry up. Her writing was painfully slow, with no spaces, letters all different sizes and words moved about on the page. She was very easily distracted, tired all the time, she found it hard to get to sleep which added to the tiredness and in speech, she knew what she wanted to say but just couldn’t get the words out. All in all she was very unhappy and constantly feeling frustrated. Our Daughter has been doing the Learning Breakthrough Programme for 6 months now. It involves standing on a balance board, once a day for 15 minutes and doing exercises that co-ordinate Sophie’s body, strengthen her eye tracking and focus and literally re-organises her brain! We have noticed magnificent differences in just

6 months; the chaos has gone so she feels calmer overall. In her words, she can now think straight! Recently she asked her friends to have a reading out loud competition – she felt confident enough to try. Her friends all agreed that her reading was the best! The most significant change is that she is in control of her emotions. Even though she still gets frustrated at times, she is able to go away to her room, sort it out in her head, calm herself down and come back and do the task she was asked to do without any fuss. In addition she is willing to take on more school work, she no longer gets lost in her speech, she has quickened up in her writing, getting dressed, doing her homework and is generally processing information at a normal speed. Her reading is fluent and she has mastered her times tables. (She used to need time to work them out on her fingers). We are more than pleased with her progress and we are very happy that we took on the programme.Proud and relieved parents – Mark and Emma

FOR CONTACT DETAILS, FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO FIND OUT IF WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THE LIFE OF YOUR

CHILD OR OF A CHILD THAT YOU KNOW THAT NEEDS HELP THEN PLEASE SEE THE ADVERTISEMENT BELOW - THANKS FOR

READING AND SPREAD THE WORD!!!

OUR HOME HAS CHANGED FROM CHAOS TO CALM – THANKS TO LEARNING BREAKTHROUGH

She was easily distracted, tired all the time, she found it hard to get sleep. She knew what she wanted to say, but couldn’t get the words out

join now!Just £9.95 on week one then £4.95 each week

£5save

Power upyour

weight loss

NEW2015!for

slimmingworld.com0844 897 8000

Join a warm and friendly group near you today…

loveSlimming

World

visit the website to read Jess’s story

MONDAYAhoghillAhohgill Community CentreCullybacky Road, Ahoghill5:00pm & 7:00pmTel: Michael 07876 358 788

AntrimHoliday Inn ExpressJunction 1, Ballymena Road5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Gina 07866 111 242

BallymenaBallymena North Recreation Centre120 Cushendall Road Ballymena5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Alex 07843 111 880

TUESDAYAntrimSt. Patrick’s Parish Church

50 Parkhall Road10:00am, 5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Sharon 07715 304791

BallymenaAdair Arms HotelBallymoney Road9:30am, 11:30am 5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Judith 07814 006332

RandalstownSt Macnissi Parish HallStation Road5:00pm & 7:00pmTel: Gina 07966 111 242

WEDNESDAYAntrimGreystone Primary SchoolGreystone Road5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Judith 07814 006332

THURSDAYAntrimAll Saint’s Parish Church HallRailway Street10:00am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Tracey 07843 111878

BallymenaBallymena North Recreation Centre120 Cushendall Road10:00am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pmTel: Tracey 07843 111 878

SATURDAYBallymenaBallymena North Rcreation Centre120 Cushendall Road Ballymena9:30amTel: Alex 07843 111880

My opinion would have been “those things are no good for you ….you need a good diet and exercise”!!! I was right, but the one thing I never did was look into what it actually was. I had plenty of opinions but no facts to back them up with.

A close family member started taking Herbalife to try to improve a life long skin condition (in addition to her usual doctor prescribed medication). After a few months, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Her skin condition had all but gone (not making any medical claims) with the added bonus of increased energy, better mood, her hair and skin looked radiant and she had also shed a few extra lbs. She told me the only thing she had changed was she was now having a Herbalife breakfast plan.

Although I was not sold on the idea, I decided to look into it. I then realised Herbalife was not just “shakes” but was a NUTRITION company. FDA approved, pharmaceutically tested, backed by a board of scientists and doctors (one of which is a Nobel prize winner!) I was blown away. This company put so much into their focus for nutrition/skincare and having a healthy lifestyle. This was not something I had ever experienced before.

Being a mum of two with a busy household and working shift work for an airline, more energy was something I needed…and badly!!! I decided to give it a go. I got introduced to a health coach, who carried out a free body analysis and wellness evaluation and from the results, helped tailor a plan which suited me, taking into account my likes and dislikes. My coach was on hand WHENEVER I needed her. Advice, meal planning, any problems that I might have come across, someone to pick me up if I had a bad day and maybe veered from my plan, there was never a problem.

I realised this was not your usual slimming routine. This is about getting proper nutrition with a hectic lifestyle and what it can do for you. It is a fact that 70% of ailments can be a direct result of bad nutrition. People have less and less time to look after themselves so we depend on other sources to give us what we need. Herbalife is the worlds number one nutrition company and sponsor the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, LA Galaxy, Ospreys rugby club and most recently, Ajax football team.

My aim is to do my part to help my community get healthy through advice and education. I will be running a “weight loss challenge” from the 04th of March for 12 weeks (£35 per course). Week by week accountability, group support, nutritional education, contactable personal coach between weigh ins. As an extra incentive there is a cash prize for the most successful participants.

To register or find out more information, contact Lyn on 07584410039. Limited places available. No purchase necessary.


HEALTH & BEAUTY | 13


TREATMENTS

SPECIALITIES

BENEFITS

Corn & callus removalNail problemsNail surgery

Diabetic foot careVerrucae treatment

Full assessment with every treatment

Biomechanics, Orthotics & sport injuriesVascular and Neurological assessment

Podopaediatrics i.e Gait problems in children i.e frequent falls, toe walking, etc.

Specialist in ankle braces

House CallsDaytime, evening and weekend appointments available

Tel: 028 9083 3568

PAIN FREE WITH FOOT AND ANKLEI have always had problems with my right ankle, regularly spraining it which would leave my foot painful, stiff, and swollen for a day or so. I eventually became unable to rotate my right ankle without pain. I’d had a few bad sprains during my childhood and in each in each case it took at least a week to be able to put my foot to the ground again. About 10 years ago after some more injuries I went to a physiotherapist (again). He felt that my ankle wasn’t responding to his treatment and suggested I see an orthopaedic consultant. The consultant took some MRI scans which showed that I had probably been born with some of my ankle bones fused together and this was what was restricting my ankle movement. The consultant explained my difficulties but he felt that it was not serious enough to warrant surgery. Wearing very sensible lace up shoes, always having an ankle strap in my bag became a way of life for me. Earlier this year my friend Issy told me about an insole with a rocker which she had been given recently and spoke about the huge difference it was making to her mobility. The rocker insole had been designed by David Hallowell at the Northern Ireland Foot & Ankle Clinic in Glengormley. On her recommendation I contacted David for a consultation. A week later I collected my insole. I placed them in my trainers

and went from his clinic to shop at the Abbeycentre. I parked on the roof park and used the stairs to get to the shops. I suddenly realised that I was going down the stairs with much greater mobility than usual; and the downward movement of my right ankle was much easier than normal. I had a busy summer and was away a lot. With my new insoles I found that walking was much easier. I was in Glasgow to watch the Commonwealth Games for about 10 days. Although using public transport to get to the events, it was always necessary to walk a good distance from transport point to arrive at the arena or stadium area. If I had done this before I had the insoles, my feet would have been sore, my ankle swollen and locked so that my walking would have been badly effected and painful. I would have spent the evening with my feet up so that I could manage the next day’s activities. But that wasn’t what happened this year. There was no recovery time because it wasn’t needed thanks to the insole creating the rocking motion for my ankle. No swelling, no pain, no locking of the ankle, no need for recovery time! I have been pleased too that the insoles fit into several pairs of shoes and boots, not just my trainers.I would definitely recommend that anyone else with similar ankle problems as mine make an appointment with David.

David says - “This type of bony restriction of the ankle joint is always painful and can cause further pain due to the gradual degeneration of the foot as it tries to compensate for the lack of ankle movement. By replacing the lost movement of the ankle joint we are able to reduce pain both in the ankle joint itself as well as reduce the compensation and consequent foot pain. This replacement of movement is what the rocker is designed to achieve”

For further information on the rocker or to make an appointment Telephone: 02890 833568


FURNITURE WORLD55 High Street, Antrim. Tel:028 9446 3564

Mattress from £393-Seater Sofas from £199

Dining Chairs from £20Wardrobes from £59

Nest of Tables from £45Coffee Tables from £45

Sol 3-Piece Bedroom Set £220Sol 3’ Bed £89

Corona 3-Piece Set £2754’6” Mexican Princess Bed £150

3+1+1 Sofas from £499

NOW OPEN!


HOME IMPROVEMENT | 17



NOWOPENPENNYBRIDGE BALLYMENA

OPENING HOURS: MON, TUES, WED & FRI - 9AM - 5.30 PMTHUR - 9AM - 8PM, SAT - 9AM - 4PM T:028 256 51859 FIND US ON

FACEBOOK

One of Northern Irelands fastest growing online bathroom stores, Bathshack, has undergone a surge in popularity since opening in 2009. The family run business operates from bases in Ballymena, Belfast and Cork, and with an ever-ex-panding client base, the fi rm is surging ahead of the competition. Speaking to the County Antrim Post, one of the fi rm’s founders, Pete Dunlop, explains how the company has managed to achieve its impressive growth in diffi cult market conditions.

The company is quickly climbing to the top of the ladder. How have you managed to cope with the speed of the company’s growth?We have a very clear vision of where we are going and while we are well on our way, we have still bit to go. At times it can be quite stressful, but when you are doing something that you love it makes

things a lot easier. The people I have around me have been the key. I’m really fortunate to have a good team of people working with me who see the bigger picture and go the extra mile to get the job done.

What elements, policies or ap-proaches would you say have been at the heart of the business’s success?For us I think the key is that we have embraced new ways of doing business. When we fi rst started out, trying just to explain to people that we were selling bathrooms online was a struggle. We stuck with the idea and built a website that was easy for customers to use, had a good selection of products, and was informative. This coupled with our showrooms, has been a real recipe for success. We are constantly learning and constant-ly adapting. I think this is the key in any business, if you stand still,

others are going to overtake!

Who is involved in running the company?My wife Aideen and my brother Conor are very heavily involved in the running of the business. Conor looks after the day-to-day running of the warehouse and sales offi ce, while Aideen concentrates more on the website and the showrooms. This allows me to concentrate on driving the business forward.

How many staff work at the fi rm and although a lot of business is done online, how many outlets are there?At present we have a staff of 14. This year we plan to employ four more full-time sales people in the south of Ireland and an additional four full-time staff across the busi-ness in the north. We currently have a showroom in Ballymena, Belfast and Bandon, Co Cork. Our head offi ce and warehouse is in Belfast.

What is the future of the fi rm, are there any innovations in the pipe-line?We are in the early stages of fi ring out a new showroom in Cork City, which we plan to have open by April. Our next venture will be a fl agship showroom in Dublin city. We will also be launching a new website within the next couple of months. This is something we have been working on for some time and

is quite a bit more advanced than our current site. It will link our stock control and accounting packag-es, which allows us to continue to growth. We also have plans to link the web-site to a CAD system, which allows customers to input the layout of their room and dimensions. We will then off er a photo-realistic design of their room designed with Bath-shack Products.

2009 was a diffi cult year to start up a fi rm, being at the start of a recession - how fi f you overcome that?From our point of view, the reces-sion probably helped us. Because of the recession, people were looking for ways to save money and we targeted this market. We concentrated our buying on certain products in order to off er the best possible prices to the customer. We are still doing the same today but our range os now huge.

What is your outlook for the NI economy over the next few years, do you predict a strong recovery?I think on the whole it looks good. We are seeing more fi rst time house buyers, which means banks are lending again. I think as long as we continue to off er a good qual-ity product at a competitive price, we can only benefi t in a growing economy.

BATH SHACK TAPPING INTO GROWING ECONOMY

8 Andena GrangeBallymenaBT43 5EH

Modern 2 bedroom Apartment, Gas Central

Heating. Overs over £75,000

23 Antrim RoadBallymena

BT42 2BJ3 or 4 Bedroom Detached

Bungalow, Gas Central Heating. Offers Over

£135,000

87 Bridge StreetBallymenaBT43 5EN

2 Bedroom Mid-Terrace House, Oil Fired Heating,

PVC Double Glazing. Offers Over £60,000

58 Chichester Park Central

Ballymena BT42 4BG3 Bedroom Semi-

Detached House, PVC Double Glazing, Oil Fired

Heating. Offers Over $60,000

(Orlit Construction – CASH BIDS ONLY)

3 Murob ParkBallymenaBT43 6JG

5 Bedroom Detached House, PVC Double

Glazing, Oil FIred Central Heating, ConservatoryOffers Over £145,000

154 Queen StreetBallymenaBT42 2BQ

2 Bedroom Mid-Terrace House, Oil Fired Central

Heating, Modern KitchenOffers Over £65,000

Letting Agents Established as one of the main letting and management agents in Ballymena. A good listing is always available, well presented

residential’s always required as we receive the enquiries

0.5 % Selling FeesTo celebrate 120 years in business, all new sales listings until the end of April 2015 will attract a commission of only 0.5% (NO VAT).

Minimum FEE £500. Has to be the best deal in town. So talk to Ken or Darren if you are thinking of selling.

AuctionsWe run the only general Auction Rooms in the Ballymena area.

Located 10 Station Road, Glarryford. Fortnightly sales, good saleable items, house clearances. Business and Farm items always required.

NEXT SALE 18th Febuary 2015 @ 6:30pm

Insurance Brokers We can obtain competitive rates for Car, House, Business and Travel

Insurance. Special schemes in place for vacant property, landlord insurance and halls

ValuationsAs chartered surveyors, Ken Crawford MRICS IRRV (HONS). Has

over 40 years experience in valuation work, Probate, Capital Gains, Matrimonial, Private sales, Vesting orders and Lending Purposes

Your Home ?Ballymena Area ?

We have a highly read website which is strongly search engine optimized to produce the best results on all major search engines

and we use this as part of our strong marketing techniques to provide best results for our clients.

28 - 30 Thomas Street, Ballymena Tel (028) 2565 2272www.mccartneyandcrawford.com

F.J. McCartney & CrawfordEstablished 1895

Property Salesmen, Auctioneers, Insurance Brokers, Valuers, Letting Agents, EPC Assessors. Dozens of properties from houses to land can

be viewed on our website. Below we have a few examples.

Go to www.Printable-Puzzles.com for hints and solutions! Puzzle ID: #Z981OT

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16

17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

32 33 34 35 36 37

38 39 40 41 42

43 44 45 46 47

48 49 50

51 52 53 54

55 56 57 58 59 60 61

62 63 64 65

66 67 68

69 70 71

Across

1. Whaleboat captain of fiction

5. "Don't let these guys escape!"

10. The "G" in EKG

14. "___ smile be your umbrella..."

15. Battery connection

16. Kelly of morning talk and daytime drama

17. Newest 500-home-run club member

19. They're worth 1 or 11 in blackjack

20. Valli of "The Third Man"

21. Perfumes

23. "___ only trying to help"

26. Rabbit Angstrom's creator

27. Fruity, flaky dessert

32. Actress Julie from Norway

33. Poor grade

34. "Love Story" author

38. Wooden strip

40. Low and Thomas

42. Kemo___ (the Lone Ranger)

43. Memorable impresario

45. Town employee

47. Wall St. takeover

48. His friends visited his Neighborhood

51. Resident of Nebraska's most populous city

54. Dot on a map

55. Fire opals

58. Worry

62. Words from one calling a bet

63. Consider

66. Cousin of an onion

67. Hoodlums

68. "... happily ___ after"

69. Any Buffalo Bills Super Bowl result

70. Disney lion

71. "___ harm" (medical maxim)

Down

1. Actress Jessica of "Dark Angel"

2. Recuperate

3. Italian town

4. Of epic poetry

5. Go on and on

6. Roxy Music artist Brian

7. Apt anagram for note

8. Byrnes and Hall

9. Botch

10. Spanish nobles

11. Designer Nina ___

12. Take ___ (glance)

13. Curving shot

18. Zigged from a course

22. Protestant religious org.

24. Bandstand boosters

25. Handpick

27. Wire screen

28. Arctic abode

29. Within reach

30. Other, in Orleans

31. Top to go with shorts

35. Less than a hurricane

36. NASA, e.g.

37. Most people born in August

39. Oscar actor for "Forrest Gump"

41. Virologist's comb. form

44. Some Korean cars

46. Year's second crop of hay

49. Quick gulps of liquor

50. Chewed like a beaver

51. Disney's Darby

52. Outdated copier

53. A fire sign

56. City on Utah Lake

57. Dross

59. Device for the modern-day couch potato

60. "___o'clock scholar"

61. "Comin'___the rye"

64. Former Soviet spy agcy.

65. She-bear:Sp.

• All types of Roofing & Chimney work• Flat roof specialists• Leadwork specialists• Storm Damage & Insurence Work

NO JOB TOO SMALLROOFS RENEWED OR REPAIRED

Free estimates, All work guaranteedwww.belfastroofing.co.uk

T: 028 9084 4368M: 07739 138577

BELFASTROOFINGSERVICES

G CCChimney & Flue Specialist

Fireplace, Open Fires,Stoves & Flues, Supplied & Fitted

Why not call in and see our Stove Range

Tel: 028 9335 237307740 717 628

Chimneyrepaired

relined &rebuilt

QUALITY • VALUE • CHOICE • SERVICE • STYLE

McKeefry’sMAGHERA

60-82A MAIN STREETT: (028) 7964 4367

MAGHERAVICTORIA HOUSET: (028) 7964 2926

BALLYMENA32-34 CULLYBACKEY RD.

T: (028) 2564 0709

OF MAGHERA

INTERIORS SUPERSTORES

Tango 3+2 groupWas £995

NOW ONLY £699

Sierra corner group and matching armchair.

Was £1398NOW ONLY £999

Milton 3-2-1 reclining suite in

Grey genuine leatherWas £2595

NOW ONLY £1699

Grey genuine leather

Ruby 3-2-1 in bonded leather


Royale 3-2-1 Designer suite


Massive selection of quality bedroom

ranges andkeenest prices.

Huge range of quality dining

furniture at low low prices.

Fantastic rangeof carpets, vinyl& laminates

MASSIVE SAVINGS IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS

Aurora 1200 pocket sprung memory foam and latex divan including co-ordinating base

and designer headboardONLY£499

MASSIVE SAVINGS IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS

NOW ONDISPLAY CLEARANCE SALEDISPLAY CLEARANCE SALEMASSIVE

Celine3+2 suite.Was £1398

NOW ONLY £899

Celine

Chatterbox - Mid Antrim - February

Documents

Transcript of Chatterbox - Mid Antrim - February