Other News In Brief

Man Sentenced For Sexual Offences Against Teenagers

A man has been sentenced for a series of sexual offences that date back to 2012.

75-year-old Liam Rafferty was handed two and a half years at Downpatrick Crown Court on Wednesday 21 August, half of which will be spent in custody and half on licence.

His crimes, including seven counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual assault, were against two teenage females between 2012 and 2015.

Detectives from the PSNI's Public Protection Branch welcomed the sentencing, commending the bravery of the two young women in coming forward and seeking justice.

Detective Sergeant Nigel Sterritt said: "Seeing your case through the criminal justice system is a huge undertaking and they have both displayed immense courage and fortitude throughout.

"Our officers in PSNI Public Protection Branch are committed to investigating all reports of sexual offences against children and young people. Regardless of when an offence took place, we will seek to place offenders before the courts so they can be made amenable for their crimes. We have specially trained officers who will treat you with sensitivity and respect. I would continue to encourage anyone who has experienced any form of sexual abuse to contact police on 101."

Call To Build On NI Golfing Success

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Maureen Morrow has expressed hope that the golf played and enjoyed in recent months can be built upon.

In an extraordinary year of golf for Northern Ireland, County Antrim hosted the ISPS HANDA World Invitational this month, bringing over 300 competitors from around the world to play in the five day tournament at the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort and Massereene Golf Club, which teed off on Thursday 15 August. The event came just weeks after Royal Portrush hosted the 148th Open.

The event, presented by Modest! Golf, showcased the region as a superb choice for a golfing holiday.

Commenting on its success, Councillor Morrow said the staging of such a prestigious event has put the area on the map as a top class tourist destination.

She said: "We have so much to offer visitors. From our breathtaking coastal drives and rich cultural history to our fantastic selection of golf courses, I believe we are best placed to host and build upon such a legendary tournament and I look forward to it returning next year.

"I would like to congratulate local girl, Stephanie Meadow on her win with Jack Senior winning the men’s title. I would also like to commend the organisers, our partner sponsors and to our celebrities for their sustained efforts in bringing this event together and for their continued belief in Mid and East Antrim as a top-class location for international events."

Newtownards Route To Close For Resurfacing

Road works have been announced on the Glenbrook Road/Glenburn Road in Newtownards, Co Down.

The Department for Infrastructure is planning to deliver £200,000 improvements over 950 metres on the route, including short stretches of footway.

Work will begin on the project on Monday 26 August and run for seven weeks. It will be carried out on week days between 9am and 4.30pm.

The initial preparatory work will be completed under a rolling lane closure with temporary traffic control, however, due to the nature of the scheme it will also be necessary to operate road closures within the seven week work programme.

Road users should expect some delays and are advised to leave additional time when planning any journeys.

The scheme is expected to be complete by 11 October.



(JG/CM)