01/09/2011

Other NI News In Brief

Wooton Basset Tribute

Lagan Valley MLA Brenda Hale has paid tribute to the people of Wooton Bassett, as the base for repatriation of troops moves to RAF Brize Norton. Mrs Hale said that the people of the town had symbolised the support of the nation, and had provided immeasurable support to families, including her own, during very difficult times. The DUP politician said: "Wooton Basset has taken on a very special place in the hearts of people from right across the United Kingdom. The scenes witnessed in the town were particularly special because it was a genuine and spontaneous outpouring of grief from local people, which came to symbolise the feelings of the entire nation. The knowledge that so many people would leave their homes and businesses to stand with the families during a very difficult time ensured knowledge that we were not alone," she said. See: Name of Soldier Killed In Afghanistan Released

Man Held By PSNI

A 46-year-old man has been arrested in Co Tyrone in connection with an investigation into dissident republican activity. The Strabane suspect was arrested by detectives on Thursday morning and has been taken to the Serious Crime Suite at Antrim police station for questioning.

Fatal Tree 'Fall'

The man who ran Lord Caledon's private estate in Co Tyrone has been killed in a farming accident. It happened during a tree-felling operation and saw the Estate Manager, Keith Willis hit by a tree, which was being cut down on the Armagh Road farm in Caledon village on Wednesday afternoon. The Health and Safety Executive NI has been informed and are now investigating the father-of-two's death.

Free Dinners

The NI Education Minister, John O'Dowd, has reminded parents to check if they are eligible to apply for free lunches for their child at school. The Sinn Fein Minister made the call as he revealed that an estimated 8,000 children might be missing out on their entitlement to free school meals because their parents are not aware they are eligible for assistance. Many working parents and guardians may not be aware that they are eligible to avail of this important service. "Free school meals are provided to children from low income households - and with over 64,000 children here currently entitled to a free meal it is disappointing that around 8,000 additional children are missing out on this right," he said. "If you are on certain benefits, tax credits or pension credit, and your child is still at school, your child may be eligible. This includes parents of nursery children - provided they have a full-time place."

Wine Accolade

A Co Down wine merchant has clinched a place on a shortlist of Britain and Ireland's best independent specialists. Crossgar-based JNwine.com is in the running for the Regional and Small Wine Merchant of the Year categories at the prestigious International Wine Challenge that takes place in London. The competition, judged by a panel of international experts including author and broadcaster Oz Clarke, is the largest wine contest in the world and viewed as a signpost for the world's finest merchants and vineyards. James Nicholson, Managing Director of JNwine.com, said the listing was a welcome boost. "The International Wine Challenge represents the highest standards of our industry. Gaining recognition is a great endorsement for our team and our commitment to sourcing quality independent wines that represent the best value for our customers," he said. Entrants to the International Wine Challenge were discreetly visited by the judging team as part of a mystery shopping exercise evaluating each company on a number of factors including range of wines, staff knowledge and helpfulness. Award-winners, including the coveted IWC Merchant of the Year accolade, will be announced at the IWC Awards Dinner on 6th September at the Hilton Park Lane, where over 700 guests are expected to attend.

(BMcC/GK)

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