Shavers Help UCF

Peter Morris, Director of Consumer and Corporate Services BT (centre), prepares to 'Shave or Dye' at the launch of the Ulster Cancer Foundation's (UCF) new men's health fundraising initiative. The charity, in partnership with BT, is challenging men across Northern Ireland to 'Shave or Dye' their hair to raise cash for men's health. Lending a helping hand are Joyce Savage, Ulster Cancer Foundation, and Jason Shankey, Jason Shankey Male Grooming. Log on to UCF

Shop Robbed

There was an armed robbery at a shop in Banbridge, Co Down. The incident happened shortly before 7.10pm on Wednesday in the Newry Street area and saw two males - one armed with a hammer - entering the premises with a quantity of cigarettes and money taken. The staff member was not injured during the ordeal and the PSNI have said that, a short time later, a 20-year-old was arrested on suspicion of robbery.

PSNI Man On Rape Rap

A police officer is in the dock this week after the PSNI man went on trial accused of rape in Belfast. Gary Ervin, 30, whose address was given as PSNI HQ, was off-duty when he met his alleged victim in a Belfast nightclub on 30 March 2009. It was stated in court that he went back with her to her home in east Belfast where he allegedly raped her while she was asleep. Mr Ervin denies one offence of rape and two of sexually assaulting the woman.

Man Gunned Down In Dublin

A man in his 40s has been fatally wounded in a shooting at an apartment in Dublin.

The incident took place around 10.30pm last night in the Larch Hill area of Santry, in north Dublin. The victim was shot twice in the head and was pronounced dead at the scene. The area remains sealed off and a full technical examination is underway. Gardai have appealed for anyone with information to contact Santry Garda Station.

Motor Neurone In Focus

The Stormont Health Minister Edwin Poots has welcomed the launch of the report 'Protect and Progress' by the Motor Neurone Disease Association. The report highlights a series of recommendations regarding the provision of services for people with the disease. "Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a devastating illness. It can progress very rapidly and affects individuals in different ways. Diagnosis is made all the more difficult because there is no definitive symptom, so it is understandable that it can be devastating news for a patient and their family once a diagnosis of MND is made," he said. "Through their extensive knowledge and expertise they have produced this report which will inform the development of future policy undertaken by my Department in this important area," he said.

Safe Routes For Disabled

The NI Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has launched a new Travel Safe Guide for people with learning disabilities. "This guide aims to help people with learning disabilities to travel independently and safely. Some people take travel for granted as part of their daily routine, but for others getting out and about safely can sometimes be a challenge," he said. "My hope is that the Travel Safe Guide will help to open up access to safe travel to people with learning disabilities by giving advice on how to use the bus and train network and how to stay safe when out and about," he commented noting that The Travel Safe Guide, which has been launched ahead of 'Learning Disabilities Week' is written in an 'easyread' style and has been produced by the Department for Regional Development with the help of a range of stakeholders including Translink and organisations working with people with learning disabilities.

Frauds Face Fines

Seven people were convicted at Belfast Magistrates' court this week for claiming benefits they were not entitled to. Elvis Williams (41) of Hill Street, Belfast claimed Incapacity Benefit totalling £16,719 while failing to declare employment. He was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £62. James Loughran (29) of Lenadoon Avenue, Belfast was fined £250 and ordered to pay court costs of £44 for wrongful encashment of Employment Support Allowance totalling £95. Mary Meehan (55) of Malton Rise, Belfast claimed Income Support totalling £3,343 while failing to declare employment. She was fined £250 and ordered to pay court costs of £43. Margaret Cousins (50) of Ardmillian Drive, Belfast claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £17,221 while failing to declare capital. She was fined £500 and ordered to pay court costs of £43. Peter McMahon (31) of Gartree Place, Belfast claimed Jobseekers Allowance totalling £1,936 while failing to declare employment. He was fined £400 and ordered to pay court costs of £111. Martina Madden (39) of Laurelbank, Dunmurry claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £4,837 while failing to declare employment. She was given 75 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £34 and David Cummings (28) of Malvern Street, Belfast was given 75 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £22 for wrongful encashment of Jobseekers Allowance and Employment Support Allowance totalling £215.

(BMcC/GK)