Other News In Brief

Belfast City Marathon Management Keen To Run Event

Organisers of the Belfast City Marathon say they are keen to see the event go ahead.

With just under eight weeks to go until the race, the management team say they are working towards keeping the 39th Belfast road race open on Sunday 03 May, but are monitoring the coronavirus situation for developments.

A statement was released on Tuesday amid calls for the cancellation of public events, with St Patrick's Day parades in L'Derry and Downpatrick now cancelled.

A spokesperson said: "The company is reviewing government information and advice daily on the Coronavirus and will update of any changes or developments on the staging of the 2020 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon on the official website and social media pages.

"Belfast City Marathon Ltd would like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience at this uncertain time."

NI Legend Barney Eastwood Passes Away

Legendary Northern Ireland boxing promoter and businessman Barney 'BJ' Eastwood has passed away.

The 87 year-old died on Monday after a short battle with illness.

The Co Tyrone man was known as a bookmaker, boxing promoter and property developer. He founded the Eastwood chain of betting shops which were later sold for more than £100 million.

Mr Eastwood was also a keen amateur boxer and worked with world featherweight champion Barry McGuigan, who said he was "saddened" to hear of the death.

"He was a big character who really knew his boxing," Mr McGuigan wrote on Twitter.

"We achieved great things together and shared some amazing times."

Popular Belfast Trail Undergoes Improvements

A popular walking trail in east Belfast has been upgraded thanks to an NI Water volunteering project.

The National Trust property was enhanced by planting trees and cutting back on invasive species including willow and rhododendron.

Lisnabreeny takes in wooded glen, estate and green field to the summit of the Castlereagh hills.

The route was improved thanks to NI Water volunteers under the Our Cares Challenge scheme. This initiative continues to make a difference in local communities and has now helped over 90 charities and community groups with worthwhile projects.

As part of NI Water's 'Cares Challenge' programme, activities are planned for various groups throughout Northern Ireland each year and are set up in partnership with Business in the Community's NI Cares Programme. The programme identifies organisations and charities within the local community who need a helping hand with physical tasks such as gardening and painting.

NI Water's volunteering policy increases the time employees can spend undertaking volunteering activities to help benefit the greater community.



(JG)