Issue 243 - East Down BT24 • BT30 • BT31 • BT33
‘Be Active’ Participants secure podium places Be Active dance class participants secured podium places at the recent Just Dance Championships in Drumnaquoile. Ten women attending a weekly Be Active dance class in Down Leisure Centre showcased their talents when they entered the First Steppers Open Silver Division. Putting their best foot forward in what was a competitive debut, the group participated in line dancing to captivate the judges and audience alike. In deciding to join the Be Active programme, participant Angela Doherty from Downpatrick said, “I had heard about the Be Active classes that the Council run within the leisure centres. When I looked into it, there was a great selection of classes to choose from. Having decided to join the dance class, I knew it was going to be a fun way to exercise – there is a great atmosphere.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte, unveiled the newly refurbished Kilkeel Bowling Pavilion, located at Mourne Esplanade.
Official Reopening of Kilkeel Bowling Pavilion
The Kilkeel Bowling Pavilion, located at Mourne Esplanade, unveiled its newly refurbished facility recently. This transformative project, funded by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has delivered an enhanced venue providing improved and modernised facilities for its users. The project, which was developed in conjunction with Kilkeel Bowling club and other local stakeholders, is part of the broader Sport Facility Strategy 20172022. The refurbishment works has breathed new
life into the recreational centre, elevating it into a modern hub for leisure and sporting activities. Key upgrades include the extension of the building which has facilitated a restructuring of the layout, enabling
the expansion of the indoor hall and pavilion to accommodate larger events and gatherings. Other improvements include the installation of a state-of-the-art heating system, new kitchen, new windows
and patio doors, increasing accessibility and natural light to the premises and the provision of disabilityaccessible amenities.
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We were a little reluctant to enter the competition, but our coach Jenna helped us every step of the way, teaching us dancing and helping us The Be Active fitness classes, available across all Council leisure centres, promote improved physical and mental health. The programme offers a diverse range of activities for people of all ages and fitness levels, led by trained fitness coaches, ensuring a supportive and effective environment for all participants. For more information about the Be Active fitness programme and how to get involved, please visit the NMD Be active app or contact the Sports Development Officer Colleen Morrison on colleen.morrison@ nmandd.org