Lisburn Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man has been convicted at Craigavon Crown Court for claiming benefits he was not entitled to.

Eric Jeffers (61) of Portman Avenue, Ballinderry Upper claimed Income Support and Rates Relief totalling £14,160 while failing to declare capital. He was given a 12 month prison sentence suspended for three years.

Mr Jeffers is also required to repay any remaining money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

Two Road Improvement Schemes Announced In Armagh

The Regional Development Minister has announced two road improvement schemes in Armagh costing £600,000.

Major resurfacing will start on the B3 Tandragee Road, Markethill next week and on U7481 Blackisland Road Annaghmore in July.

Minister Danny Kennedy said: "The works will improve the structural condition of almost three miles of the Tandragee Road from the Dunesmullan Road junction to Drumnamether Road at Bells Cross Roads and almost two miles of the Blackisland Road from Ardress Cross Roads to Derryhirk Road and will also enhance the running surface."

Strengthening works commenced on the Tandragee Road on Monday 27 May 2013 in preparation for the resurfacing which will provide new surfacing to the carriageway. During the works on the Tandragee Road which are planned from Monday 24 June to Sunday 7 July 2013 a temporary road closure will be in place. Traffic will be diverted via B131 Drumnamether Road, A51 Marlacoo Road, B78 Mullurg Road, B78 Mullaghbrack Road, A28 Gosford Road & B3 Tandragee Road.

Newry Community Raises £42k For Grieving Family

SDLP MLA for Newry and Armagh Dominic Bradley has said that he is overwhelmed at the response of Newry people to the fundraiser for the repatriation of the remains Kevin Bell RIP who was tragically killed in a hit and run accident in New York last Sunday.

Commenting on the fundraising event last night Mr Bradley said: "The response to this event was truly overwhelming. The total amount raised in one night, £38+k, is a reflection of the esteem in which Kevin and his family are held by the community in Newry and district. People came out in their hundreds to the quiz event in the Canal Court Hotel last night to show their support.

"I spoke to the family about the response to the event and they are overcome with gratitude at the generosity of people. The family intend to use any excess resources to set up a fund to help other families faced with the trauma of a sudden death overseas and with the expenses involved in bringing home the remains of a loved one under such circumstances.

"It is typical of the love and generosity of the Bell family that in their grief their thoughts are already with those who could face similar circumstances in the future."

(CD/JP)