25/06/2002

Newry city status celebrations kick off

Celebrations are all set to kick off in County Down today to celebrate Newry’s success in obtaining the highly coveted city status award.

Two Northern Ireland towns were awarded city status in a special competition to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee in March this year.

Lisburn in County Antrim, and Newry were given the award - which is granted personally by the Queen – following an application process that also saw Carrickfergus, Ballymena, Coleraine and Craigavon competing for the honour.

They join Northern Ireland’s three existing cities – Belfast, Armagh and Derry in achieving the special title.

The festivities will kick off in Newry at 1.45pm with a concert headlined by singer Brian Kennedy, pop group Six and Irish trio Bellefire.

UTV personality Gerry Kelly and Irish TV and radio presenter Gerry Ryan will also perform the role of Master of Ceremonies.

SDLP assembly member PJ Bradley said: “Those who championed the cause and delivered the dream of Newry City will be long gone before the true value of their achievement is truly recognised. They have advanced opportunities, not only for the people of today but also for generations yet unborn.

“We have an embryonic City situated on Ireland’s only Euro Route currently being developed on the Eastern Seaboard. We have shopping facilities second to none in Ireland, we have the leading learning institutions situated in our midst and much to offer to so many.”

(AMcE)

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