As 2025 draws to a close, here are eight local stories from local news and sport that are both heartwarming and uplifting and give us encouragement and hope as we face into another new year and the challenges it will bring.
1. Swifts make history
There were celebrations on the streets of Dungannon when the Swifts returned home after winning a first Irish Cup in the history of the Co Tyrone side. Ten-man Dungannon Swifts won on penalties after a spirited display helped them beat Cliftonville in the final at Windsor Park. Club Chairman, Keith Boyd, said lifting the The Clearer Water Irish Cup Trophy was a moment that will be etched in the history of the club. He said: "This victory is not just a testament to their skills but also a reflection of the unwavering support from our community." Photo: Jonathan Porter / PressEye
2. Huge response to pyjama appeal
One of the most heartwarming stories of 2025 was the huge public response to a special Christmas charity pyjama collection in memory of 11-year-old Caitlin-Rose McMullan, who was tragically knocked down by a car after getting off a bus near Castledawson in March. The Diamond Slice pizza shop in Bellaghy was the main collection point for the pyjamas which (pictured) were donated to The Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children. When Caitlin-Rose was taken to hospital where she sadly died, her parents were offered pyjamas which were too small for her and this was where the idea for the collection came from. Caitlin-Rose's mum Stella and her friend Lorraine Mulgrew, of Diamond Slice, decided to do something to help other parents who find themselves in a similar situation. Photo: Facebook
3. Griggs etches name in athletics record books
Mid Ulster's Nick Griggs etched his name into the record books by becoming the first Irishman ever to win a European Cross Country title. And he revealed to the Press that following the victory he paid a poignant visit to the grave of his brother, Josh, who died in a tragedy in 2021.The Newmills lad delivered a commanding performance in the U23 Men's Race in Portugal to secure a memorable victory. Griggs powerful run is also credited with bringing the Irish team home in gold medal position. It's a another major breakthrough for the 20-year-old Ulster University student and former head boy of Cooksktown High School. Photo: Maja Hitij/Getty Images
4. Momentous year for Holy Trinity
Catholic Primate of All Ireland Archbishop Eamon Martin and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill pictured at the Blessing of the new College. After years of lobbying and campaigning for better facilities, staff and pupils at Holy Trinity College in Cookstown finally achieved their "dream" of moving into new £34 million state-of-the-art facilities at the Chapel Street site which is still taking shape. The driving force behind the development and growth of the college over the past 14 years has undoubtedly been its principal Mrs Isabel Russell who has recently retired. She realised the mainstream education budget would only take them so far so she riched out and brought together the local business and community leaders to form a foundation that would drive the project forward through a structured fundraising programme. Photo: Supplied