Other News In Brief

Appeal For Information On Fire At Derelict Premises In L'Derry

The PSNI in L'Derry have issued an appeal for information following a fire at derelict premises in Drumahoe last night, Monday 30th October.

The blaze was reported to police at 9.05pm. NIFRS attended the scene on Drumahoe Road and extinguished the blaze.

Inspector McDonald said: "Damage has been caused to the premises. NIFRS have said the cause of the fire is believed to have been deliberate ignition and so we are treating this as a suspected arson.

"As enquiries into the circumstances of the fire continue, anyone with information, including dashcam or other video footage, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 1780 of 30/10/23."

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/.

Lauren Kendall Named New Green Party Cllr For Holywood And Clandeboye

The Green Party NI has announced that Lauren Kendall as their new Councillor for Holywood and Clandeboye on Ards and North Down Council.

Lauren Kendall went to school and still lives in Holywood, has an Open University Degree in Economics and English Literature, Professional Certificate in Accounting, Leadership in Health and Social Care, and a Masters of Public Administration from University of Ulster.

Lauren previously worked as a Law Searcher, and has spent most of her career working in the community & charity sector in the areas of justice, disability and environment.

Cllr Lauren Kendall said: "I am pleased and privileged to rejoin a hardworking team of Greens in North Down. I am deeply grateful to Rachel for her years of dedication to the community, both as MLA and Councillor, and hope to follow Rachel's lead carrying on her brilliant work for Holywood and Clandeboye.

"I am committed to a cleaner, greener, fairer society for all. I live in a wonderful community here in Holywood and our local government needs to work hard for local people. We must strive to make our communities sustainable, inclusive and representative of all. The community's views and voices must be at the heart of decision-making.

"As a Green, I will continue to promote the positive benefits of preserving our natural environment and green spaces, particularly the importance of taking urgent action to combat climate breakdown."

North Down Green's Chair, Barry McKee said: "I am delighted to have Lauren on board and I thank Rachel for her hard work over the years and her commitment to the people of Holywood and Clandeboye DEA and North Down. I know that she will continue to serve and work in the best interests of people in her new role.

"I'm confident that Lauren will do a fantastic job as part of a team of Green Party NI representatives working hard to make a positive difference to people within the communities they serve."

DUP Congratulates Those Behind Pat Jennings Statue

DUP East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell has tabled a Parliamentary motion congratulating those involved in commissioning a statue of Pat Jennings, which is to be unveiled next week.

The DUP MP said: "Pat Jennings is not only one of the greatest goalkeeper ever to have come from Northern Ireland, but one of the best the world has seen. He is someone who always let his football do the talking, but stands as one of the few people to have bridged even the most bitter divides – being loved by the fans of both Arsenal and Spurs!

"It is absolutely right that Pat is honoured, and it is only fitting that the statue will stand in his home town of Newry. Those involved in the 'Friends of Big Pat Committee' are to be congratulated for bringing the project to fruition. Following his playing career Pat has continued to work for many charities, quietly giving of his time for others.

"This motion is another token by which we can thank all those involved in this project and to pass on our good wishes to Pat and his family as they look forward to a hugely important day."