PSNI Heli Search Succeeds

The police helicopter played a vital role in a major search and rescue operation at the weekend with the crew spotting a stranded jet-powered 'scooter' and its 'crew'. The couple were sighted on Rams Island on Lough Neagh where they were later picked up by lifeboat. The man and a woman got into difficulties after their jet-powered sea scooter hit a rock. The couple, aged in their 30s, were seen leaving Gawleys Gate at about 2pm on Sunday and the alarm was raised when they had not returned by 6.45pm.

INI Says Innovate

A new award to recognise innovation has been launched. Invest Northern Ireland, in partnership with Ulster Bank, said that the Innovation and Export Awards 2009 will celebrate and reward businesses "leading the way in continuous improvement". Launching the awards, Leslie Morrison, Chief Executive of Invest Northern Ireland, said: "It is clear that a constant focus on innovation and exporting will underpin the fortunes of the private sector. These awards will, and committing to succeed in export markets. We have many ambitious businesses, and I am confident that the winners will be strong role models to others." Henry Elvin, Head of Business Banking at Ulster Bank, commented: "Ulster Bank is delighted to sponsor the Invest NI Innovation and Export Awards 2009. These awards will highlight the high standard achieved by Northern Ireland businesses across innovation, export, leadership and overall business excellence. The awards are testament to Ulster Bank's continued commitment to supporting local enterprise and businesses throughout Northern Ireland." A total prize fund of £100,000 will be available to winners of the five award categories, judged through the open competition process.

Derry Stab Arrest

The 26-year-old man is in a stable condition in hospital after he was stabbed several times in Drumleck Drive in the Shantallow area of Londonderry at the weekend. A 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident which also saw police attending the scene being attacked by youths throwing stones.

New Jobs At NI Energy Centre

NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has announced the creation of new jobs in the Northern Ireland Energy Agency advice centre in Enniskillen. The Minister made the announcement during a visit to the organisation, which also has offices in Belfast and Londonderry and is a partnership between Fermanagh District Council, Derry City Council and the Bryson Charitable Group. Together with a number of public and private organisations the Energy Agency provides advice on energy efficiency, renewable energy and low carbon transport to Northern Ireland households and not-for-profit organisations.

(BMcC)