Series of eventslined up forrefurbished park

The Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading, speaking about the celebrations, said: “Residents of the Lisburn area have been very patient during the refurbishment works, which took approximately 22 months to complete; and on behalf of the Council I would like to thank each and every one of you.

“To celebrate the completion of the new play area, duck pond, pavilion, bandstand and the overall general works the Council’s Leisure Services Department has organised events over several weekends in this well-known park located in the centre of Lisburn. I hope to see many of the Lisburn residents and visitors to the City enjoying this series of sporting, cultural and musical events.”

The schedule of events starts on Saturday, July 23 and runs every weekend through to Sunday, September 4.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, speaking about the events calendar, said: “There is something to cater for everyone’s taste irrespective of age. Each event takes place on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and the Council is encouraging everyone to come along.

“The first event is very fittingly named ‘Spirit of the Olympics’ and allows everyone to come along and have a go at various sports including football, Olympic handball, javelin and athletics. Throughout the course of the summer there will also be a number of musical events held at the refurbished bandstand by bands including Maghergall Pipe Band, Baillies Mills Accordion Band and local bands such as ‘Miller and the Roots Collective’.

“As the Island Arts Centre is also supporting this calendar of events there will be a number of craft, drama and circus based events throughout the seven week period. The first artistic event will be held on Saturday, July 30 and will include a Teddy Bears Picnic and Crafty Crafts. Those who attend will have the opportunity to participate in craft workshops and will be able to produce an item of craft to take home,” he concluded.

Lisburn City Council would like to see as many residents and visitors as possible attend the planned events and celebrate the completion of the newly refurbished ‘People’s Park’.

For further information log on to www.lisburncity.gov.uk or telephone 028 9250 9566.