Advice for local groups

Attending the Craigavon Borough Council Community Networking event were, from L to R, Cllr Kyle Savage, Craigavon Mayor Colin McCusker, Joe Garvey and Letty Houston of Richmount Rural Community Association, guest speaker Jim Eastwood and Jo-Anne Dobson MLA.

Jim Eastwood, who was a finalist on BBC’s The Apprentice, and who was named ‘The World’s Greatest Salesman’ by Lord Sugar, spoke to representatives of local community groups from across the borough.

Jim is currently Groupon Vice President for the United Kingdom and Ireland and gave an entertaining address to the local representatives talking about Pride, Change and Partnership.

He also gave some interesting behind the scenes secrets about the Apprentice TV series, during which he caught the eye for his sharp sales techniques and ‘Jedi-like’ powers of convincing.

Commenting following the event Ulster Unionist MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said: “Our local community groups make a fantastic difference and through their drive and determination massive change is being achieved, touching the lives of local people and helping to empower the next generation of community leaders.

“I was delighted to get the opportunity to meet so many committed local people who have a pride and passion for their community and who do so much to help others.”

The MLA continued: “I commend all those groups who attended, especially those who received their certificates and the staff at Craigavon Borough Council who had put in so much hard work to organise and prepare a terrific networking event.”