Issue 250 - East Down BT24 • BT30 • BT31 • BT33
‘Nip it in the Bud’ Cancer Campaign NMDDC is working in partnership with the Farming Community Network (FCN) and Macmillan Cancer Support to raise awareness of cancer signs and symptoms among the farming community in the district.
Cranfield, Murlough and Tyrella beaches are three of 16 sites across NI to earn the iconic Blue Flag Award.
Cranfield, Murlough and Tyrella Beaches Awarded Iconic Blue Flags
Northern Ireland’s award-winning beaches and marinas have been revealed at a ceremony at Belfast Harbour Office. Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, who manage the accreditations locally, announced 22 winning sites across five council areas. Cranfield, Murlough and Tyrella beaches in our district are three of 16 sites across Northern Ireland to earn the iconic Blue Flag Award - one of the world’s most recognised
awards for beaches and marinas. Winning sites met international standards in criteria such as safety, accessibility, c l e a n l i n e s s , environmental education and, for beaches, water quality. A further 6 beaches across NI received Seaside Awards, the UK’s mark of quality
that ensures visitors are guaranteed to find a clean, safe, attractive, and well-managed coastal stretch. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “The Newry Mourne and Down coastline is famous for its amazing sandy beaches, spectacular views, and
unique geology, ecology and communities. I am delighted that three of our most beautiful beaches, Tyrella, Murlough and Cranfield have once again retained the worldrenowned Blue Flag accreditations.
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The ‘Nip it in the Bud’ campaign encourages early detection and a proactive mindset towards getting checked regularly and aims at tackling cancer inequalities and helping to raise awareness of cancer among those living in rural communities. Research from Newcastle University* indicates that people living in rural communities often present with more advanced cancer when they are diagnosed and are 5% less likely to survive than those living in an urban environment. Approximately 36% of Northern Ireland’s population lives in a rural area* and this can create unique challenges for accessing services and support. The evidence here is anecdotal; however, there is a firm belief amongst clinicians - who are increasingly
concerned - that farmers are hesitant to contact their doctor until the late development of the disease, the outcome of which is then generally less than positive. Some of the signs and symptoms of cancer - such as prolonged pains, tiredness and fatigue - can be missed or overlooked as being ‘part of the job’ in farming, forestry, fishing and other rural industry. A lack of time or availability of services, particularly in rural areas, can also make it difficult to speak to a GP. If you need support or just want someone to talk to, call the Macmillan Support Line for FREE on 0808 808 0000. For further information including downloads and information sheets please visit the Farming Community Network website: www.fcn.org.uk/ cancersupport/.