Other News In Brief

Man Missing In Dunmurry

Police have launched an appeal into the disappearance of a man from Dunmurry.

David Dickson, 57, was last seen in the Seymour Hill area of Dunmurry at around 8pm on Monday (24 November).

Police have said they are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare.

Mr Dickson is described as being approximately 5'6" tall, of slim build, with balding short blond/grey hair. He has a pierced ear and tattoos on both arms; one being playing cards, the other being a Rolling Stones style tongue.

He is believed to be wearing jeans and a t-shirt.

If anyone knows of his whereabouts, they are asked to contact police on 101.

New Dundonald Park And Ride Opens

A new 520-space park and ride facility has opened in Dundonald.

It is free of charge to use and the service forms part of the new Belfast Rapid Transit system which is scheduled to begin in 2017.

Bicycle parking facilities have also been provided for commutes and are situated next to the terminal building.

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said: "This excellent new facility in Dundonald will further enhance the Park & Ride offering for commuters travelling to Belfast, in particular those travelling from Dundonald and the Ards Peninsula.

"There is a significant, and growing, demand for Park & Ride facilities which highlights the success brought about by my Department’s investment in public transport in recent years, success that I would intend to continue to build upon."

Increase In People Using Food Banks

There has been a sharp increase in the number of people in Northern Ireland using food banks, a new study has found.

Advice NI said that the number of food banks in the region had increased from just two in 2011, to at least 14 this year, it is understood.

One food bank charity alone, The Trussell Trust, said to be the largest in NI, gave out more than 11,000 free food parcels this year, the BBC has said.

This is a surge of 489% on the previous financial year.

Bob Stronge, Chief Executive of Advice NI, said many people had "nowhere left to turn".

(JP)