Slieve Gullion Forest Park Scoops Top Award

The NI4kids Family Awards were held on 27th June in Belfast City Hall.  Gareth Stewart, from the event sponsor QRadio, hosted the glitzy movie themed ceremony with paparazzi, popcorn and red carpets. The awards were started five years ago in honour of all the amazing places and people who put families with young children first. After hundreds of nominations from across the country were submitted, and a tense judging period the winners were announced.

Slieve Gullion was up for the Family Visitor Attraction of the Year award, sponsored by FCA Northern Ireland, and faced tough competition from The Jungle NI and Rosepark Farm. Commentator Alex Cane took to the stage to announce the winner.

Chairperson Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick said when Slieve Gullion was announced the winner, “What a fabulous achievement, we are lucky to have so many great attractions in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and it’s great when they are recognised.” She continued by thanking everyone involved in the creation of this tourism gem, “and thanks to all the children who bring this magic to life everyday.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council would also like to pass on their congratulations to other winners from the district; Child of the year, Lucy Parke; Grandparent of the year, Catherine Ferris; and nominee primary school teacher of the year, Yvonne Finnegan from St Brigid’s Primary School Downpatrick.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council are always trying to improve Slieve Gullion Forest Park for everyone that visits and this summer is no different. A huge magical living story will come alive in August at the ‘Footsteps in the Forest’ event during the Lúnasa 2016 Festival. Head over to www.ringofgullion.org for full details.

Slieve Gullion Forest Park has now been recognised as an Amazing Place for families with young children at the NI4Kids Awards held in Belfast City Hall on 27th June. Chairperson Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Gillian Fitzpatrick presented the NI4Kids Award for Family Visitor Attraction of the Year to Dermot Winters Caretaker of the Park, l-r Patrick Murray Park Attendant, Dermot Winters Caretaker of the Park, Chairperson Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick, councillor Roisin Mulgrew, Liam Townson Park Attendant, back Councillors Kate Loughran and Pete Byrne.