Balmoral Show Attendees Urged To 'Leave Extra Time For Your Journey'

The PSNI has urged people attending the Balmoral Show to "leave extra time for your journey", ahead of what is expected to be a "busy few days".

Making the appeal, Lisburn and Castlereagh PSNI District Commander Superintendent Kelly Moore said: "We are delighted to see the return of the much-loved Balmoral Show here in Lisburn tomorrow.

"As it is every year, the event is an excellent day out for everyone and I want those attending to enjoy a positive experience.

"Please help us to help you by being patient and by driving and parking responsibly, with consideration given to other road users and pedestrians.

"Please follow the guidance of police officers and parking marshals on the ground, along with the direction of signage in place and only park in the designated locations provided.

"Public safety is of paramount importance to us, so please do not ignore parking restrictions.

"Finally, I hope you enjoy your time at the show and be sure to drop by the Safer Communities marquee to meet our PSNI representatives in attendance."

Two Millionth Cruise Ship Visitor Arrives In Belfast

The latest cruise ship to dock in Belfast has brought with it the two millionth visitor to the city, according to Cruise Belfast – the partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast which markets the city as a leading cruise ship destination.

The passenger who took the number of visitors to come to Northern Ireland on cruise ships past the two million mark was on board the Norwegian Dawn, operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, which docked in Belfast this afternoon, Tuesday 09 May.

Since the first cruise ship visit to Belfast in 1996, the industry has grown exponentially, with a record 165 cruise calls expected this year.

Michael Robinson, Port Director of Belfast Harbour, said Belfast is now well and truly on the radar for international cruise operators when setting their schedules.

"The arrival of the two millionth cruise visitor to Belfast Harbour is a significant milestone for the cruise industry in Northern Ireland. This year is expected to be a record year for the Port with 165 calls from 34 different cruise lines, carrying more than a quarter of a million passengers.

"Cruise visitors make an important contribution to the tourism industry in Northern Ireland bringing tourists from across the world for day trips to attractions across the region." 

Mary Jo McCanny, Director of Visitor Servicing at Visit Belfast, said: "Ahead of such a busy cruise season, welcoming the two millionth visitor to Belfast is another great milestone for the city that again demonstrates the vital partnerships that Cruise Belfast has formed with global cruise operators.

"The Visitor Servicing teams work tirelessly to provide a first-class reception for every visitor who arrives into Belfast, showcasing the very best of the city and the wide range of quality tourist experiences on offer. Belfast has built a strong reputation as a welcoming and exciting cruise destination and that is something we hope to continue for years to come."

Naomi Waite, Tourism NI’s Director of Marketing added: "The millions of pounds of investment in our tourism infrastructure and visitor experiences in recent years has ensured Belfast and Northern Ireland are at the forefront of the cruise offering. With new attractions such as the re-imagined Titanic Belfast, Titanic Distillers and the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, we can offer new and exciting itineraries to compete within a highly competitive marketplace, which is crucial to continue to attract strong visitor numbers.

"With an expected record year for the 2023 cruise season, the boost in cruise ship visitors is sure to make for a fantastic year for the Northern Ireland tourism industry."

Appeal For Information After Batteries Stolen From Plant Machinery

Police in Strabane have issued an appeal for information following the theft of batteries from heavy plant machinery at a quarry on Cashty Road in Newtownstewart some time between 7pm on Saturday evening, 6th May and yesterday morning, 8th May. 

Anyone who was on Cashty Road between these times and saw any suspicious activity, or who has been offered batteries of this nature for sale in suspicious circumstances, is urged to call 101, quoting 492 of 08/05/23. You can also make an online report via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Police also appealed to owners of plant machinery stored on farms or business sites, such as quarries, to review their security.