McClarty expresses dismay at Milk Cup move

EAST Londonderry MLA David McClarty has expressed his profound dismay at the news that the finals night of this year's Milk Cup football competition will not be held at its traditional home of the Coleraine Showgrounds, but will instead be held at Ballymena.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Mar 2010, 08:13 BST

The Ulster Unionist representative said: "I am sure I speak for many thousands of people in Coleraine when I say that I am profoundly dismayed at this news.

"The Milk Cup is a fantastic competition which has grown year on year since its inception in 1983 and is one of the highlights of the summer season in the Borough of Coleraine attracting thousands of visitors.

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"I understand that the reasons advanced for switching the Finals night to Ballymena include health and safety issues at Coleraine Showgrounds and the lack of sufficient changing facilities to cater for the six teams who will contest the three finals.

"That being the case, I trust that the current building site which exists at one side of Ballymena Showgrounds will meet the required health & safety standards by July 30th of this year."

Mr McClarty added: "It is absolutely imperative that the relevant authorities in Coleraine – not least the Council of which I am a member - come together to ensure that the facilities at the Showgrounds are upgraded to meet sensible health and safety requirements.

"It is absolutely imperative that no stone is left unturned to ensure that the Milk Cup Finals night returns to its natural home – Coleraine Showgrounds – next year. It must be brought back home to Coleraine where it belongs."

Related topics:ColeraineBallymenaCouncil