bloom november 2012

MagazinebloomThe very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.

What’s going on in your ownneighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.

Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.

Issue 11: November 2012www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook

Get The Kettle OnRachel Allen has the cake sorted in this months cookboook

You can win the new SD Bells book!

WIN!

Local Legend, Rising Star, Food Focus & much much more

Bloom FavesShopLocal

bistro esteChristmas

@

StartersSoup/fresh bread/abernethy butterCo Antrim ham terrine/piccalilli/watercress salad/fresh wheatenThai spiced squid/Asian noodle salad/lemongrass dressingWinter salad/roast beetroot/goats cheese/walnut dressingSpiced seafood croquettes/carrot fennel salad/lemon mayo

MainsRoast turkey/roast ham /stuffing/trimmings/gravySlow braised pork belly/red cabbage/mustard mashRoast Monkfish /osso bucco/saffron potatoesDaube of beef/parsnip mash/vichy carrotsSouth Indian vegetable curry/basmati rice/naan bread/spiced mango chutney

DessertChristmas pudding/bushmills custardChocolate brownie/vanilla ice creamLemon cheesecake/fruit compoteHomemade mince pie/fresh cream

BYO - NO CORKAGE!

52-54 Upper Newtownards Rd. Tel 028 9047 3670

Este Bistro Este www.bistroeste.co.uk

3Courses

Only £24.95

Welcome : We don’t know about everyone else but to us it seems that somewhere along the line someone has sneakily ripped out a few months from the calender and thrown them in the bin without us noticing. This year’s has been hurtling by at an astonishing rate. Hard to believe Christmas is now well and truly at the forefront of peoples minds. We may as well start getting the Easter eggs in. But before we put our face in Cream Egg, we have a rather bunged issue of Bloom for you to get through with a sharp focus on rallying the community to take a trip down the road and check out our incredible local trade. We kick off as always with our news headlines that matter to you. Then we speak to Robert Bell of SD Bells who have just launched a very special book celebrating 125 years in business. Find out how you could win a copy. We also have our resident beauty experts with advice on preparing your skin for the bitter winter ahoy. We meet Caspar and John Lund whose family history in furnishing yarn spans nine generations. You could become a part of its heritage. Our cookbook is Cake by the very talented Rachel Allen who shares her sweetest of recipes. In her column, Emma Dunn delves deep into the story of the now famous Horatio Todd. We meet Noel, the man at the helm of Ruby Tuesday’s on their quest of using local produce and our rising star is Deborah Toner, an exquisitely talented sewing and embroidery extraordinaire with a twist. And binding the magazine together, we have a fantastic array of local businesses advertising who we wholeheartedly thank for their support. We hope you’ll support them too, give them a ring, call in, tell them where you saw the ad, shop local.Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn

Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Printed by GPS www.gpscolour.co.uk

www.bloommagazine.co.uk 3

@bloommag

: Bloom Magazine Belfast

East Belfast is in Bloom

Magazine

bloo

mBloom Magazine308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GXTel: 07719 104862Editorial: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

Stuart, Angela, Juanita

bistro esteChristmas

@

StartersSoup/fresh bread/abernethy butterCo Antrim ham terrine/piccalilli/watercress salad/fresh wheatenThai spiced squid/Asian noodle salad/lemongrass dressingWinter salad/roast beetroot/goats cheese/walnut dressingSpiced seafood croquettes/carrot fennel salad/lemon mayo

MainsRoast turkey/roast ham /stuffing/trimmings/gravySlow braised pork belly/red cabbage/mustard mashRoast Monkfish /osso bucco/saffron potatoesDaube of beef/parsnip mash/vichy carrotsSouth Indian vegetable curry/basmati rice/naan bread/spiced mango chutney

DessertChristmas pudding/bushmills custardChocolate brownie/vanilla ice creamLemon cheesecake/fruit compoteHomemade mince pie/fresh cream

BYO - NO CORKAGE!

52-54 Upper Newtownards Rd. Tel 028 9047 3670

Este Bistro Este www.bistroeste.co.uk

3Courses

Only £24.95

The Christmas ShopChristmas Gifts - Trees - Tableware - DecorationsOrnaments - Lights - Garlands - Crackers

Everything you need on your doorstep to make this festive time perfect, visit The Christmas Shop.

11-13 Cregagh Road, Belfast BT6

Bloom. The local magazine for your community. Contents

16

Once again the East is alive with goings on, we have the lowdown.

A familiar name and a menu created with local produce, it’s Ruby Tuesday’s.

Deborah Toner’s custom sewing and embroidery, hand made and beautiful.

The fantastic Rachel Allen shares her sweet secrets in her new book, Cake.

You can feel the air getting colder by the day, prepare your skin and more.

The Lund family have an extraordinary history that you can be a part of.

SD Bells launch a wonderful book to celebrate 125 years in business.


November 2012

16

19

20

25

30

34

36

Creating a Stir

Health & Beauty

Fan of the Cloth

Cookbook

What’s On

Food Focus

Rising Star

Emma tells us the story of a local man, famous of late, it’s Horatio Todd.

We have all the latest headlines from the East and further afield.

6 28Local News Our Heritage

The Park Avenue Hotel, a vital part of East Belfast for over 50 years.

38 Local Legend

19 20 34

38

36

25

The Christmas ShopChristmas Gifts - Trees - Tableware - DecorationsOrnaments - Lights - Garlands - Crackers

Everything you need on your doorstep to make this festive time perfect, visit The Christmas Shop.

11-13 Cregagh Road, Belfast BT6

6 www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Bloom News Your local news & views

Macmillan Cancer Support is on cloud nine as Belfast City Airport announces them as their new charity partner. The City Airport will be getting involved in an array of events for the local charity and encouraging their staff and customers to get involved aiming to raise vital funds for this worthy cause. All funds raised will go towards providing medical, financial, practical and emotional support for the 55,000 people in Northern Ireland living with cancer. www.macmillan.org.uk or for further details on Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morn-ing email [email protected] or call 0845 602 1246

Brenda Shankey spent summer 2012 embarking on a regime of weight loss and fitness. Not only did she lose over two stone in just six weeks, but she has dropped from a size 14 dress to a size 8! The secret to her success is the new craze in the UK....Fitness Bootcamp. Brenda says, ‘My weight was creeping up and I was doing no exercise at all. I was working long hours and eating on the go and I knew I needed to change my life-style. Bootcamp was the perfect solution, helping me to lose weight quickly and safely in a week. I was also re-educated into changing my lifetyle to keep the weight off. I lost a stone in my first week and my fitness improved dramatically. My bootcamp instructor Scott Wright also designed me a fitness and food plan to continue at home, and I quite easily lost a further stone in just four weeks’. I loved the experience and the change in my health and weight so much, I am bringing celebrity trainer Scott Wright to Northern Ireland to operate fitness bootcamps in Northern Ireland.’ For further details on dates and locations visit www.scottwrightbootcamps.com

Come Fly With Mac...

Local Business Woman Loses Over 2 Stone in 6 Weeks

Aidan Campbell launched his latest title in his series of East Belfast history books at Hillmount Nursery. ‘Stormont’ was introduced by Aidan in a remarkable presentation to guests including the Lord Mayor Gavin Robinson featuring some wonderful archive photography from the book. All proceeds go to Marie Curie and will be added to the £86,000 already raised by his Aidan. This really is an incredible body of work and will make a fantastic gift for Christmas as it is a joy to behold. Aidan’s books Beaconsfield, Knock, Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk,

Castlereagh and Cregagh are on sale at Hillmount Nursery and the Marie Curie Hospice. Pictured l-r Aidan Campbell, Sue Curry - Manager Marie Cure Hospice and Tommy Sandford - Deputy Mayor Castlereagh. Aidan will give an illustrated lecture at East Belfast Historical Society on 8.11.12 at 7.30pm in Belmont Tower.

Local Historian Launches 7th Book

109a Bloomfield Avenue, BT5 5AB. Phone 028 9046 1466

We offer a full range of comprehensive treatments including:

Special Offer Throughout The Month of November:20% off Dermalogica Products & Facials !

• Facials • Body treatments • Massage• Hand & Foot care• Nails• Waxing

• 3D Lashes • 3D Browz• Tinting• Tanning • Make up • Little Angel treatments

Gift vouchers available· Dante jewellery· Seasalt accessories· Peony scarves· Mela D’oro leather handbags· Dansk Smykkekunst jewellery

76 Belmont Rd, Belfast, BT4 2AATel: 028 9065 2428 www.silhouettefashionbelfast.co.uk

Silhouette Belfast

Make your shopping experience stress free and look no further than your local fashion store. Gifts for your loved ones available now from Silhouette.

Belfast Laptop A5 Flyer 1/8/12 9:20 am Page 2

• Fully Refurbishedwith Warranty

• Windows OperatingSystem Installed

• Anti Virus Installed• Wireless and

Broadband Ready• Clear Precise Screens• Keyboards, Plastics and

Hinges in Good Condition• Ready to Use -

Just Plug In and Go• We accept All Major

Debit and Credit Cards

Refurbished Laptopsfrom £119.00

www.belfastlaptops.co.uk

9029 2000TELEPHONE:

92 BLOOMFIELD ROAD,BELFAST BT5 5LU

BELFAST LAPTOPS

WE ALSO OFFER A FULL PC REPAIR & UPGRADE SERVICE

£99.00

0800 862 0189FREE PHONE

Contact usTel: 028 9073 [email protected]

Specialist Anti-Ageing Skincare Laser & Beauty Clinic

683a Shore Road, Whiteabbey T. (028) 9086 1186 | 58 Bloomfield Ave, Belfast T. (028) 9045 2025

Beauty Treatments1/2 Leg, Bikini & Underarm Wax .........£20Eyebrow Wax, Eyebrow Tint .................£15& Eyelash TintOPI 3 Week Manicure (Colour) ............£17OPI 3 Week Manicure (French) ............£20

Omnilux RevivePure Red Light

The latest technology in non surgical face lifts

Radiesse Volume Replacement & Cheekbone

Enhancement Registered Clinic

Highly Experienced Medical Professionals

Full range of skincare & beauty treatments available. Visit our website for more details www.medi-cosmetic.com

BOOK NOW (028) 9045 2025

Come Visit us at our NEW Clinic

Cut Out

Voucher


Your local news & views

The Belfast Music Week 2012 will feature more than 250 events in 70 venues across the city. This is a dramatic increase in activity for the third year of this event, which takes place November 4-11. There will be live music in a rich variety of places, including iconic venues such as the Ulster Hall, The Lyric Theatre and The MAC. But there will also be unique performances at Europa Bus Station, Conn-swater Shopping Centre, HMV record shop, An Cultúrlann and the Palm House in Botanic Gardens. There is chamber music and hip hop, blues and electronica, talent nights, music exhibitions and traditional sessions. Some of the highlights include a celebratory day at the Ulster Hall, on November 10, marking 25 years of electronic music in the city. Barry Douglas and Cameratino perform at the Naugh-

ton Room in the Lyric Theatre on November 5. An exceptionally intimate performance with a programme of Mozart, Brahms, Breval and Mercadante. Belfast City Council’s Belfast Music Week is co-ordinated by the Oh Yeah Music Centre and supported by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland. www.belfastmusic.org

Belfast Music Week Launched

The team at Doris and Jeannie believe that everyone is creative and every home has creative potential. They sell beautiful restyled furni-

ture, solid vintage pieces which they have hand finished using the Annie Sloan chalk paint, as they explain. ‘All our furniture is locally sourced, and individually redesigned. Each is a one-off, artisan piece which has been made to last. We are pleased to be the only Belfast stockist of the paint which, in Annie Sloan’s words, is ‘the best paint in the world’. It is a unique formulation in a range of heritage colours, and can be used on furniture and walls for a distressed or ‘French-look’ without any priming or undercoating. We also offer workshops which give people hands-on experience with the paint and provide ideas for re-crafting their own furniture. We are also showcasing the work of other local crafts people and artists such as Loveollio candles, personalised cushions, bunting, prints and paintings. I envisage Doris and Jeannie being a hub for local unique craft design and we welcome inquiries from local craftspeople who would be interested in selling their work through the shop, or who would be interested in renting rooms for workshops or even their own business.’ There is a preview night on Friday 2nd November 2012 from 8-9pm. 25 Belmont Road. Tel 028909 543 8177. www.dorisandjeannie.com

Restyled Furniture & Accessories

Elizabeth’s Home Bakery has now arrived on Belmont Road. Proprietor and main baker Stephen

Brown previously traded under Elizabeth’s Cake Shop in Ballyhackamore and now Belmont cus-tomers have been enjoying the varied bread range including wheaten, soda, pancakes and cherry scones not to mention the various pastry on offer especially the fudge bar and the fresh cream selec-tion including the extremely popular pineapple slice! Local businesses, churches and schools have been enjoying a tea break with a difference! Orders can be placed the previous day by calling 028 9065 4871. 10% discount on orders over £30. 29 Belmont Road. Find on Facebook.

Elizabeth’s Home Bakery is Back!

Local Historian Launches 7th Book

Bloom: News


Lord Mayor of Belfast Alder-man Gavin Robinson vis-ited Nettlefield Primary School in east Belfast for the unveiling of a new mural. The pupils worked with the local Ravenlink Residents’ Group to create a mosaic of the famous ship made up from different photographs, each with a Titanic connec-tion. Pictured with the Lord Mayor are Amy Manning and Modestus Ogunwa.

Catering staff at Grosvenor Grammar School scooped the top prize in the NI School Caterers’ As-sociation (NISCA) at the Titanic building. Grosvenor GS lifted the honours in the Post Primary School of the Year category. Pictured Norman Lynas from sponsor Lynas foods, Suzanne Clarke, Grosvenor SMK Cater-ing assistant John O’Dowd, Minister for Education, Pauline Thompson, BELB Area Manager, Mary La-gan, Grosvenor SMK Senior Unit supervisor, Mandy Johnston Grosvenor SMK Catering Assistant and Janet McAllister, NISCA Chairperson.

Come celebrate on Thursday 6th and Thursday 13th of December in various locations in the Holywood Arches area, East Belfast including Holywood Arches library, Es-presso East and Bloomfield House. ‘Winter at the Arches’ will include a Christmas craft fair, lantern making workshop and parade, storytelling sessions with appearances from very special guests, choir music and late night shop opening with exclusive discounts and promotions. Over twenty traders and organisations from east Belfast are taking part to celebrate what the local area has to offer. Come along and support your local community this winter and celebrate what East Belfast has to offer! For more information please visit www.eastbel-fastpartnership.org. Questions or comments? www.facebook.com/east-belfastpartnership. Are you a trader/organisation interested in getting involved? Email [email protected]. or phone 028 9045 1900 for more information.

Winter at The Arches

Bloom: News

STOCK CLEARANCE

Sale shop opens Saturdays 10am - 5pm111 Bloomfield Avenue

Belfast BT5 5AB

107 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast, BT5 5ABT/F: 028 9045 2665 F: 028 9087 2491

E: [email protected]

Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn RoadBelfast BT9 7GX.T: 028 9068 7050 WWW.PEELFASHIONSTORE.COM

find us on Facebook

Embrace two seasonal trends with

your denims with these shocking pink

and floral styles from Citizens of

Humanity.

Exclusive to Peel, Jucca, offers all

the style of Marni but at a fraction

of the price.

New Season Must-Haves At Peel

Award winning designer handbag collection, Abro, is the perfect complement to any outfit casual or smart.

BLOO

M PR

OO

F

107 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast, BT5 5ABT/F: 028 9045 2665 F: 028 9087 2491

E: [email protected]

Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn RoadBelfast BT9 7GX.T: 028 9068 7050 WWW.PEELFASHIONSTORE.COM

find us on Facebook

Embrace two seasonal trends with

your denims with these shocking pink

and floral styles from Citizens of

Humanity.

Exclusive to Peel, Jucca, offers all

the style of Marni but at a fraction

of the price.

New Season Must-Haves At Peel

Award winning designer handbag collection, Abro, is the perfect complement to any outfit casual or smart.

BLOO

M PR

OO

FDon’t miss our

stock clearance in the Sale Shop.

MASSIVE REDUCTIONS

Saturday 6th October saw record numbers of athletes travel from the farthest corners of Northern Ireland to compete in Athletics NI’s annual NI Relay Championships. For the second year running the event was hosted by East Belfast Athletic Club Orangegrove AC in Victoria Park and boasted races for all ages from a Primary School run to the Senior and Masters relay team races. Annadale Striders stormed the finish line winning both the Senior and Masters Men’s races while North Belfast Harriers led the Senior Women to victory and North Down AC took the Masters Women’s title. Paddy Robb of St Malachy’s won the U17 3,000m in an impressive time of 9.38 and Lagan Valley runner Emma Laverty won her race in an equally impressive 10.53. Willowfield Temperance Harriers Arillalwo Bamisilp and Lois Magan won both U15 races with their team mate, Desire Bamisile,winning the U13 Boys 1,000m. Representing Ballyclare HS Emma Hutchinson took the title in the U13 title beating off stiff competition from Willowfield Temperance Harriers, East Down and Dromore AC. Orangegrove AC is a mixed, all abilities athletic club training out of East Belfast. For more information on training with the club please visit www.orangegroveac.co.uk

Local Athletics Clubs Celebrate Success Following NI Relay Championships

Trim Tone Tan Castlereagh has recently been taken over and is undergoing a transformation. Although this may not be visable from looking at the store the new management team, Stuart Watters and Paul Maguire are working hard to give new and ex-isting customers a one stop shop experience. ‘With our sunbeds and amazing toning room already established and offering excel-lent value for money we have added our beautician Annie who has a wealth of experience in nails, waxing, HD Brows and mas-sage to name but a few and our LA smile laser teeth whitening again is at an unbeatable £50 at all times and we have Shannon (LA smile specialist) who will leave u sparkling.’ With many more developments to come, why not pop in or call them to see what they can do for you. 215 Castlereagh Road opposite the new Tesco. Tel 028 9045 0433.

Trim Tone Tan Totally Transformed


Bloom: News

The Destiny Gallery is a modern, bright and welcoming venue. It hosts a selection

of original and limited edition artwork from many talented local and UK artists.

The gallery also offers an on site bespoke framing service provided by a Fine Art

Trade Guild Commended framer.

The framer specialises in hand finished mounts and frames using techniques to

best enhance and preserve artwork.

Also available are gift certificates which can be redeemed against artwork or our

bespoke framing service.

81 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AA.Tel: 028 9065 9879

Tuesday to Friday 11am-6pm / Saturday 11am-4pmemail: [email protected]

www.destinygallery.com

The ROOMSewingYOUR COMPLETE SEWING SERVICE

• Garment Alterations• Curtain Making Service• Roman Blinds• Bridal Alterations• Very Competitive Rates

OpenMon, Wed Fri: 9-6Tues & Thurs: 9-7Sat: 9-5

Unit 16, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald RdTel: 9048 9642 or Mob 077 0615 6331

15 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AA.Tel: 028 9065 9824

Find us onFacebook

Sit in or take away.Sit in includes tea or coffee

2 Cod Suppers

£9.99

Kip McGrath Education Centres offer professional tutoring programmes for primary through to high school students. We help build the foundations for

academic success.

English & Maths

Preparation for P1 & P2

Ages 6-18 Key Stage 3, GCSE, A-Level & Essential Skills

Preparation for CEA, Multiple Choice Transfer

Individual Programmes of Study

Kip McGrath Education Centre104 Loopland Drive, Belfast BT6 9DX

Build For a Brighter Future

Contact Jan on 9046 9662 for a FREE assessment

BOOK NOWPrepare your child for any educational

stage from P1 to Upper Sixth!

We have achieved a Hygiene Rating of 5 (Excellent). We have very high standards of food safety management and are fully compliant with food safety legislation. All our food is freshly prepared on a daily basis.

90 655 90074 Holywood Road, Belfastwww.niftynosh.com

FREE MARGHERITA PIZZA OR DONER KEBAB

WHEN YOU SPEND £12.00On request, 1 per customer only. Not including any

other offers. Available Mon-Thursday only. Terms & conditions apply.

BELLA

PIZZA

BUY ANY 14” PIZZA & GET ONE FREE !

WITH THIS COUPONMonday - Wednesday only. Not valid with any other offers.

Only one per customer. Cheapest pizza free. Expires 30/11/12

Opening HoursSun-Thurs 4pm-Midnight Fri-Sat 4pm-Late

DELIVERY SERVICE £1.30 ORDERS UNDER £5.00 EXTRA 30p

Deliveries exceeding 2.7 miles price will increase by £1.00Please leave a light on for our drivers

FairyDustG i f t E m p o r i u m

Stocking the Green Company Organic Cosmetics and Skincare rangeParaben free, for babies, children, teenagers, men & women. Helps combat: Psoriasis, excema & rosacea.

REFLEXOLOGY 20% OFF!

WITH PRESENTATION OF

THIS VOUCHER

Unwind while you shop & indulge yourself with

a little pampering!

415-417 Newtownards Road BT4 1AQ Tel: 028 9073 1141www.fairydustemporium.webs.com

Treats by Mandy

• Reflexology

• Foot pamper package

• Pedicure

• Manicure

• Gel Nails

• 3 week polish

Treats by Sam

• Airbrush

• Natural Facelift

• Indian Head Massage

• Specialising in Paraben free skincare for problematic skin eg psorisis, acne and rosacea

AIRBRUSH

20% OFF!WITH

PRESENTATION OF THIS VOUCHER

Unwind while you shop & indulge yourself with

a little pampering!

HANWOOD IRONING SERVICES

IRONING • WASHING DRY CLEANING

IRONING• 17 items £9• 34 items £18• 65p per item• Hangers 6p MondayTuesdayWednesday ThursdayFriday Saturday

9am-4pm8am-8pm8am-8pm8am-8pm9am-4pm10am-4pm

Delivery/collection from home or work from £2.50

Unit 19 Hanwood Business Park. 028 9041 0297

Does not include large items

New Kidswear for Autumn 2012Designer brands on your doorstep

Unit 5 39-53 Bloomfield Ave. BT5 5AA www.funky-living.co.uk (Coming soon)

Find us on Facebook


I started putting it together on New Years Day, says Robert Bell. ‘Given 2012 was such a huge

anniversary year with the Jubilee, Titanic, The Ulster Covenant, The Beatles, everyone was very nostalgic so I knew there would be an appetite and people would be interested. It’s about marking the history of the firm and how its developed over the generations. But its also about how it has developed in conjunction with the development of Belfast, the firms place in the history of the city plus the individuals involved. SD Bell was a well known character in the city and UK wide, especially London. He was the go-to-guy for quality tea and he lectured at queens. .’ The original house where SD Bells began on the Upper Newtownards Road was built at the time when other houses like Ormiston and Beaconsfield marked the start of the suburb developing. So for Robert, it seemed fitting that all proceeds from the book went to Marie Curie at Beaconsfield. But this is not your typical, back to back fact history book. This is an extraordinary piece of work that documents how this company not only has its heritage in our community, but globally. And this is just a fraction of the archive material that had been in the family, as Robert explains, ‘We lost a lot of archive material in the second world war plus a lot was given away for salvage or it was destroyed in the midst of the war effort. What we did retain I wanted to preserve in book form. The people who have come across the firm, have worked for the firm, suppliers etc run into the thousands.’ There’s a look at present day SD Bells; the atmosphere, the live music every Sunday. Then of course there’s an insight into tea and coffee about some legends and history. Robert full admits it’s not pretending to be the definitive history of coffee or tea, but it’s an opinion with history and quotes from everyone from Frederick the Great to Ronald Regan and tales about, JS Bach to the legendary coffee Kopi Luwak which is a fascinating story that

SD Bells is an iconic East Belfast company, now in business for 125 years. To mark the anniversary, the family have produced a remarkable book which chronicles the development of the business over four generations and a lot more besides.

Creating a Stir

‘

Creating A Stir: 125 Years of SD Bells is written by Barry Bell, Robert Bell and Keith Drury with illustrations by Keith Drury. Available from SD Bells priced £20 with proceeds going to Marie Curie.

is a must read. It light heartedly analyses percolator coffee, asks who invented filter paper, the mocha express and the cowboy pot which is how they made coffee in the wild west. Incidentally at the time of the OK Corrall, it was just six years before SD Bells began. So, packed with interesting facts about their place in history, but also a lot of fun. ‘We don’t take ourselves too seriously, there’s a lot of making fun of ourselves in there. We canvassed customers and got some lovely snippets which are more human than the dry product stories. I also wanted to stake a claim, because if you don’t, no one else is going to do it for you! We’ve been around for such a long time and of course we are proud of the company and its history so wanted to share it with everyone.’ So if you want a fascinating history of a fascinating company in a fascinating city and if you want to know what SD Bells can tell you what opium, Afghanistan and tea have in common, then this is the book for you!

WIN A COPY OF CREATING A STIR!SD Bells is offering 5 readers the chance to win a copy of Creating a Stir. Simply answer these three questions which you can find the answers to at www.sdbellsteacoffee.com

1. What does the SD stand for in SD Bells?2. In what year did the company move to Knock?3. When is the Java-Jive Jazz Brunch?

• Send your answers along with your name and contact number to [email protected]. • Or you can post your answers to Bloom Magazine, 308 Albertbridge Road, Belfast, BT5 4GX. Closes 30/11/12

Children in Northern Ireland (CiNI)Unit 9, 40 Montgomery RoadBelfast BT6 9HLT: 028 9040 1290E: [email protected]: www.ci-ni.org.uk

Do you need a room for a meeting or event?

• CiNI has 3 rooms for up to 60 people to hire from as little as £30 per day.• We have a range of catering options available.• Very accessible to and from the city centre with FREE carparking.• Internet access and Loop system available.• See our website and Facebook page for further offers.

t h e c o f f e e s h o p

OPEN

SUNDAYS

NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS!ONLY £9.95 PER PERSON

SEATS 50+

CHOOSE TWO COURSES

Traditional Roast Turkey & Ham with Chipolatas & Seasonal Vegetables

MENU

OPEN : Mon-Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm/Sun 9.30am-3pm Unit 1, Hanwood Business Park (next to Eastpoint Entertainment Complex)

Old Dundonald Road, BT16 1DETel: 028 9048 4549 www.creamthecoffeeshop.com

SANDWICH

PLATTERS

AVAILABLE

Soup of the Day • Prawn CocktailMelon with Raspberry Coulis

MAIN COURSE

STARTER

DESSERTChoice of Dessert

Keighley LundInteriors

ANTIQUES . PLASTERWORK. COLLECTABLES . FURNITURE FURNISHINGS . BESPOKE HANDMADE FURNITURE

Unit 18 East Belfast Enterprise, 308 Albertbridge Rd, Belfast BT5 4GXTel: 07776 152215. www.keighleylund.com [email protected]

Interiors, antiques, furniture and furnishings. Hand built painted in frame bespoke kitchens. Irish damask linen, upholstery, curtains, furnishing fabrics. Hand made plaster cornice and ceiling roses. Collection of antiques, collectables, furniture and furnishings, refurbished antiques, reupholstered new and old. Lamps, shades, desks, rugs, cabinets, chests, Silver tea & coffee sets. Also including the Caspar Lund damask Irish linen collection woven by John K Lund.

The Secret Day Spa, 30 Belmont Road, Belfast. Tel: 028 9067 1914.www.bloommagazine.co.uk 19

Autumn and winter months are the perfect time to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. Besides, how else are you going to prepare for high-shopping season? Not only can a trip to

the spa help you relax and de-stress, but it’s also great for your skin.

Welcome to The Secret Day Spa beauty page. Keeping the good people of East Belfast looking gorgeous & feeling fantastic!

Health & Beauty

Preparing for Autumn & Winter

Harsh weather and cooler temperatures can take their toll on your skin, making it more prone to breakouts and excessive dryness. You can stock up

on moisturizers and at-home facial products, but sometimes a spa treatment is all you need to get yourself in tip-top shape for party season!

Face Time

Look out for hotstone massages, deeply soothing and sensual massage using a unique combination of hot basalt stones, essential oils and

the personal therapy of touch. The heat of the stones relieves the body of physical tension and pain, improves the circulation and also promotes an overall feeling of well being.

Rolling Stones

If you are looking for something a little different try [Comfort Zone] Lux

Candle Massage. This unique treatment uses the innovative natural Lux

Massage Candle. Especially selected and tailored to your needs, the warm oils and natural butters are drizzled over the skin for your massage treatment, to melt away tension and deliciously

nourish your skin.

An Eternal Flame

Winter facial skin care is one of the most important aspects of skin care health. Not only is your face usually a focal point, the face is also one of the more sensitive areas of the skin. Combinations of weather changes, exposure to environmental conditions such as rain, sleet, or snow, and dry indoor air all contribute to the appearance of dull, dry, tight, or skin. Dermalogica face mapping is just the thing to determine what facials or at home products you need to invest in this winter and best of all it is free in most good spas.

Winter Watch

For the ultimate winter treat why not try a Mud wrap. We use {Comfort Zone} Monticelli mud for a luxurious envelopment of mineral rich mud containing thermal water from the springs of Monticelli, Italy, this treatment has a profound draining, decongesting action whilst relieving any physical tension from tired limbs. The body is left refreshed and toned.

Mud You Believe it!


It started around 1715 with three brothers who were farmers,’ says John Lund. ‘They bought

English wool, sorted and scoured it, hand combed it, hand spun it and then had it woven on hand looms in cottages and it grew from there. Substantial mills were built in the region employing over a thousand people based around Bradford and Keighley. My Great Great Grandfather had a mill; G Lund & Son in Bradford and we had Crabtree Brothers and Lund as well. Then 30 years ago sold the mills in Yorkshire and moved all the production here.’ The family discovered eight chairs which were from the mill boardroom when they were clearing from the Demesne in Lurgan last year. ‘It was my step mothers family home,’ says Caspar. ‘They must have been sold 150 years ago from my Great Great Grandfather to my stepmothers Great Great Grandfather. We’re the only ones that had that design so coincidentally there was a connection with the families even before. It’s 16th Century damask, the mid 19th to early 17th century is where a lot of our designs originate from.’ Caspar’s father John moved the operation to Glenanne in South Armagh were they did the dying and spinning of their own yarn. They were producing for the top 5% of the market such as Zoffany, Nina Campbell, Osborne & Little. They’ve also gone into the likes of Royal households of the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Dubai and various Presidents plus the French Assembly sit on Lund cloth. So the level of quality in their output is unparalleled as Caspar explains, ‘All the Equerries bedrooms in Buckingham Palace are done with our fabric (Oak Garland) which was originally found in Templenewsam House in Leeds. Another (Chrysanthemum Flower) The Prince of Wales and Princess Diana had and then when they got divorced they had them again, plus there’s one with a yellow ground in Clarence House today.’ So the archive material available now from the diverse and incredible range is the last of this fabric

The Lund family connection to furnishing yarn stretches back nine generations. Originally based in Yorkshire, the operation moved to Northern Ireland 30 years ago yet the

archive material and collection on offer today through their East Belfast base is nothing short of astonishing. We spoke to

John K. Lund and his son Caspar about the family story.

Unit 18, East Belfast Enterprise308 Albertbridge Road, BT5 4GX. Tel 07776 152215

anywhere in the world, once sold, it’s gone, no one can ever reproduce it ever again. ‘This fabric was selling in the USA for $800 a linear metre. We’re selling it now from £95-£125 a linear metre but it will last for 300 years. No one can get close to the level of quality anymore, not even computers. It’s all reversible it’s so well made, it depends on what way you want it. We’ve had a foot stool in our house for years that we sit on, eat on, put our feet on, spill tea on, and all you do is take a damp cloth to it because it’s all natural.’ Combined with the extraordinary stock of fabric, Keighley Lund Interiors also provide bespoke hand made furniture, kitchens, antiques, furnishings and a tremendous wealth of knowledge and experience from their beautiful base in East Belfast. One of the Lund’s oldest family traditions is that the first born male heir is given the name Keighley Lund, as in John Keighley Lund. This name was given unusually to both Oliver Charles Keighley Lund and Caspar John Keighley Lund as they were identical twins. The company name is in loving memory of Oliver Charles Keighley Lund who passed on 1st November 2011.

Fan of the Cloth

‘

249 Castlereagh Road028 90 450 281

Mon-Fri 9:30am-5:30pmWed 9:30am-8pm

Sat 10am-2pmwww.clrbelfast.co.uk

iPhone, iPad, iPod Repairs •Smashed screens •

Liquid damage •Battery replacements •

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK.COM/CLRBELFAST

Microsoft Certified •Fully equipped workshop •

• Console Repairs for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii• Disc read errors• Graphical problems• Overheating

• Full range of EPSON compatible ink• All full sets just £10!• DVD/CD Blank Discs in store

Fully equipped workshop •Hardware & Software diagnostics •

Full refurbishments •Data Recovery •

Attic Hair149a Holywood Road

(Above Boys to Men Barber)Belfast

Nicky Nutt 07582 977496

Gael Harris 07530 638640

A personal hairdressing service in an intimate environment.

By appointment only.

OVENEZEOVEN CLEANING SPECIALISTS

WE CLEAN OVENS, AGAS, GRILLS, HOBS, EXTRACTORS, MICROWAVES, & BBQS• Removes stubborn burnt on grease and carbon• No fumes, no mess and minimum disruption• Low odour, biodegradable products• Bulb and filter paper replacement service available• Friendly local independent service• Landlords and letting agents welcome

Why not call us today and get a free quote over the phone. No hidden costs, our price depends on the size of the oven, not how dirty it is.

TELEPHONE 08453 900222 OR 07780 986777

£5 OFF WITH THIS VOUCHER

LEAKY OR OVERFLOWING GUTTERS?

GUTTERING CLEANED AND REPAIRED

CSR REGISTERED/FULLY INSURED

LOCAL AND RELIABLE.

TDH ContractsCall Thomas on 07934 825984

CLASS ICDECORATORS

INTERIOR & EXTERIORMember of Constructiononline

For a Free EstimateCall 07711 808422028 9032 2189

• Over 20 years experience •

Hands On TherapiesMassage, Sports Massage & Bowen Technique

AIM OF SPORTS MASSAGEUncovers & relieves underlying problems such as:

Increased muscle tension • Trigger points • Thickened tissue • PainBENEFITS OF SPORTS MASSAGE

Injury prevention • Uncovers problems • Improves performance • Relaxes body & mind • Speeds recovery time post

exercise • Treats muscular injuries

FULLY QUALIFIED BOWEN PRACTITIONER

David HannaTel: 07900 264888 www.handsontherapiesni.co.uk

FIND OUT MORE AT

WINDOW CLEANING• ONE OFF CLEANS • 4, 8 or 12 WEKLY• FRAMES & SILLS INCLUDED

TDH CONTRACTSCleaning Services

Call Thomas on 07934 825984

BURNSHEATING & PLUMBING

Reliable Quality Service • Central Heating Installation & Repair • Natural Gas Installation & Repair

ALL ASPECTS OF DOMESTIC PLUMBINGFULL BATHROOM DESIGN SERVICE TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS

24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service

Tel: 028 9070 2778 Mob: 07718 76049926 Bapaume Ave, Belfast BT6 9JE

C&L LANDSCAPESFULL LANDSCAPING SERVICE

WE SPECIALISE IN: FENCING • NEW LAWNS

WOODEN DECKINGGENERAL GARDENING MAINTENANCE

TEL: 028 9045 2019MOB: 07802 569513

All In OneMaintenence Repairs

Roof Repairs • Gutters Cleaned & RenewedALL TYPES OF JOINERY

Door Fitting & Skirting • Wooden Flooring • Fencing & Decking • UPVC Lock Repairs •

Single & Double Glazing RepairsCONSTRUCTION SKILLS REGISTER JOINERS

25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

TEL: 028 9048 6211 MOB: 07711 020572

Discount Decorators

Reggie MontgomeryFree Estimates • Professional Tradesmen

Tel: 028 9028 0112 Mobile: 07704 775701

• Boiler replacements Scheme - Grants available up to £1000 towards your new High Efficiency Boiler• Complete Heating System Powerflush• Oil and Gas boiler - Repairs & Replacement Service• Radiators - Thermostats - Pipework• All plumbing and heating repairs and maintenance

PREPARE FOR WINTER!DISCOUNT PENSIONER RATES

ALL PLUMBING AND HEATING REPAIRS SERVICE - REPLACEMENTS

111 Mealough Road, Carryduff, BT8 8LTTel: 028 9081 7899 E: [email protected]

MISTYWINDOWS?Condensation building up inside?

Single & Double Glazing Repairs • Window & Door Maintenance • Replacement Window Frames & Doors • Glass & Mirrors Cut to Order • Handles, Hinges & Locks

Call Us Now!02890 486338 / 07788 172 748E: [email protected] 7, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald Road Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1DE

Established 1976

For your free quotation:

Electrical Contractor & Oil Service Engineer• All types of electrical works undertaken• Oil fired boilers serviced & repaired• Fast, reliable & professional service• Emergency breakdown service available

REWIRES • FIRE ALARMS • INTRUDER ALARMS • EMERGENCY LIGHTING • COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL • INSPECTION AND TESTING

OUTDOOR & DECORATIVE LIGHTING

All enquiries welcome - Competitive prices

Contact Alistair 079 0222 [email protected]

Better Light the energy saver

36-42 Castlereagh Road Belfast BT5 5FP beside QE1

F: 028 9095 0827 T: 0788 560 7976

Exciting new lighting showroom opens in Belfast, Specialist supplier of Decorative lighting, Commercial Lighting and LED Lighting 10% discount on all lighting purchase and free low energy lamps fitted Please quote OS1

Call in anytime for free advice on all your lighting requirement Over thirty expertise in the lighting world

Call in anytime for free advice on all your lighting requirements. Over 30 years expertise in the lighting world.

on the Belmont roadNow open

OPENING TIMES


Caramelised pear upside-down cake

CakeRachel Allen knows home baking. It’s her fail-safe recipes, with easy-to-follow methods, thoughtful tips and advice that have been helping her readers over the years to make the most gorgeous cakes and bakes that work every time. Sponges, muffins, brownies, pop cakes, cheesecakes, tortes, pudding cakes, whether they are indulgent or healthy(ish), chocolaty, nutty or fruity, sweet or savoury, or gluten-free, you’ll find them all in this ultimate cake bible published by Harper Collins. In this comprehensive collection with Photography by Philip Webb you’ll find a mix of delicious easy and everyday cakes, teatime treats, classics, festive baking, hearty puddings and even some free-from and healthier cakes. And when you’ve finished baking, Rachel will show you the best tips and tricks for decorating and icing. Here is just a handful of the 200 recipes from this wonderful book from one of the most renowned and respected chefs in the country.

By Rachel Allen

zest and grated pear, then mix into the dry ingredients, whisking to combine.Pour the batter into the frying pan, not disturbing the spiral pattern, bake for about 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes, then place a plate on top and carefully turn the cake upside down (the right way up, in other words) and out onto the plate.Serve while warm or at room temperature, with a little softly whipped cream if you wish.

Named after Queen Victoria who enjoyed a slice of it with her tea. In its traditional form it consists of two layers of cake with raspberry jam and cream filling and dusted with icing or caster sugar. I’ve provided a version of it here as it’s a classic, but it’s a seriously versatile recipe with lots of variations that you can try

Prep time: 10 minutes (excl filling)Baking time: 18-25 minutesReady in: 1 hourServes 6-8

Peeled slices of orange look lovely atop this upside down cake, infusing it with their tangy citrus flavour. The batter combines the zest of the oranges and olive oil for a distinctive tasting sponge. I like to serve this for dessert with a little custard or orange creme anglaise

Prep time: 10 minutesBaking time: 40 minutesReady in: 1 hourServes: 8

75g (3oz) butter125g (4 ½ oz) brown sugar4 pears (about 375g/13oz)150g (5oz) plain flour2 tsp ground cinnamon1 tsp bicarbonate of soda½ tsp salt175g (6oz) caster sugar4 eggs100ml (3 ½ fl oz) sunflower oil1 tsp finely grated orange zestDouble or regular cream, whipped, to serve (optional)• 26cm (10 ½ in) diameter ovenproof frying panPreheat the oven to 180⁰C (350⁰F), Gas mark 4.

Put the butter into the frying pan and melt over a low heat, remove from the hob and sprinkle over the brown sugar.Grate one pear, including the skin (but avoid the pips and core), and set aside. Peel the remaining three pears, slice each into quarters and cut away the core. Arrange the pear quarters, cut side down, in a spiral pattern in the bottom of the pan.Sift the flour, cinnamon, bicarbonate of soda and salt into a bowl and mix in the caster sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sunflower oil, orange

26www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Caramelised Pear Upside Down Cake

Victoria Sponge

“

”

Victoria Sponge

“

175g (6oz) butter softened, plus extra for greasing175g (6oz) caster sugar3 eggs175g (6oz) plain flour, plus extra for dusting1 tsp baking powder1 tbsp milkIcing or caster sugar, for sprinkling• Two 18cm (7in) diameter sandwich tinsPreheat the oven to 180⁰C (350⁰F), Gas mark 4.

Butter and flour the sides of each tin and line the base with a disc of baking parchment.Cream the butter until soft in a large bowl or electric food mixer. Add the sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.Whisk the eggs in a small bowl for a few seconds until just mixed, then gradually add them to the butter mixture, beating all the time. Sift in the flour and baking powder, tadd the milk, folding in gently to incorporate.Divide the mixture between the two tins and make a slight hollow in the centre of each cake so that when it rises it doesn’t peak too much in the centre, making it difficult to sandwich together

”

with the other half.Place in the centre of the oven and bake for 18-25 minutes or until golden on top and springy to the touch.Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then loosen around the edges of each cake using a small, sharp knife and carefully remove from the tins before leaving on a wire rack to cool down completely.Once cool you can sandwich the cakes together using the filling below. To assemble the Victoria sponge, place one cake upside down on a plate and spread over your filling. Place the second cake on top, right side up, then sprinkle over the icing or caster sugar to finish.Jam and cream fillingSpread 3-4 rounded tablespoons of jam, such as raspberry, strawberry or blackberry over the first cake, followed by a layer of 125ml (4 ½ fl oz) of double or regular cream, whipped until almost stiff. This is best eaten on the day it’s made. If you want the cake to last for a few days (without putting it in the fridge), omit the cream and use just jam in the centre; this will keep in an airtight box for 2-3 days.

This fantastically dense, moist cake has echoes of sticky toffee pudding. It contains no refined sugar all the sweetness coming from honey and dates, while the wholemeal flour imparts its lovely nutty flavour.

Prep time: 15 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesReady in: 2 hoursServes: 6-8

100g (3 ½ oz) chopped dates200g (7oz) butter, softened, 200g (7oz) honey, plus 2 tbsp for drizzling3 eggs

100g (3 ½ oz) ground almonds125g (4 ½ oz) wholemeal flour1 ½ tsp baking powder25g (1oz) flaked almonds• 20cm (8in) diameter cake tin with 6cm (2 ½ in) sidesPreheat the oven to 180⁰C (350⁰F), Gas mark 4,

Butter the sides of the cake tin, line the base with a disc of baking parchment. Place the tin on a baking sheet, as some butter may seep out during cooking if using a spring-form cake tin.Place the dates in a saucepan and pour in 50ml (2fl oz) of water. Set over a high heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until soft. Remove from the heat and set aside.Cream the butter and the 200g (7oz) of honey until soft in a large bowl or in an electric food mixer. Whisk the eggs together in a small bowl for a few seconds until just mixed, then gradually add them to the creamed butter and honey mixture, beating all the time.Stir in the cooked dates, along with any remaining cooking

liquid, followed by the ground almonds, then add the flour and baking powder and fold in gently to incorporate. Tip the mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing the surface gently with a palette knife, then scatter the flaked almonds evenly over the top.Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. It will be quite dark-looking, but don’t worry – the cake will be perfectly moist inside.Remove from the oven, allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Loosen the sides using a small, sharp knife, carefully remove the cake from the tin, transferring to a cake stand or plate.Use a skewer to pierce a few holes in the top of the cake, then drizzle over the 2 tablespoons of honey and allow to cool before cutting into slices to serve.


Date & Almond Honey Cake

“

”

Cake by Rachel Allen Available now priced £25

Published by Harper Collins

Date & AlmondHoney Cake


Horatio Todd was born in Ballymena, moving to Belfast in 1899 where he

eventually opened his own chemists shop on the Holywood Road in 1905 which he grandly named the Trafalgar Medical Hall. Those who remember him describe a bespectacled gentlemanly figure in a well cut suit who always wore a red carnation in his button hole and treated all his customers with the utmost courtesy. It was in this chemist shop on the Holywood Road that he manufactured his own range of remedies including Todd’s Own Thrixol Hair Lotion for those affected by dandruff, Todd’s Own Marshmallow Linctus for colds and bronchitis and Todd’s Laxative Emulsion which surely needs no further explanation! Horatio Todd prided himself that the drugs he dispensed were the very best that money could buy and on his advertisements he stated “When a human life is at stake the best is none too good. I do not handle cheap drugs; in fact every drug that enters your prescription is the best.” Horatio Todd was also known throughout the area for taking care of animals as well as humans although perhaps not in the same way, as many a family pet was taken there to be put down in his capacity as the local vet. It was for his scents and perfumes Horatio Todd was best known to the ladies of the wealthier social classes including royalty. He sent baskets of his scent to Queen Mary, grandmother of the present Queen of England and also to the Duchess of Abercorn, Lady Londonderry and the Mayoress of Belfast

‘

Who WasHoratio Todd?

at the time Lady Turner. Accompanying his basket to Queen Mary in 1925 he included a letter where he wrote “Your Majesty, I shall feel highly honoured if you will kindly accept the accompanying bottles of my perfumes, Ulster Violets and Flowers of Ulster. They are manufactured in Ulster in my own laboratory and under my personal supervision.” He received a reply from Buckingham Palace a few weeks later from the Queens Private Secretary saying that “I am to express to you Her Majesty’s sincere thanks for your kind thought and to say that it gives her great pleasure to accept the casket of Ulster Perfumes manufactured by yourself.” Although history does not record if she ever wore them or not, the fact that he was a recipient of the OBE perhaps speaks for itself. The Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland was also formed in 1925 and Horatio Todd was named as its first President and he was the first fellow of the Society in the early 1970’s. He died in 1973 and his daughter Mia carried on the business until 1977. Sadly it is a sign of the times that the current chemist which replaces the shop opened by this colourful character of East Belfast at 72 Holywood Road is a branch of Boots.’

©Emma Dunn. The East Belfast Historical Society meets in Belmont Tower on the second Thursday of each month. For further details please email [email protected]

How many people living in East Belfast now know the man behind the name of the bar &restaurant Horatio Todd? Emma Dunn explains the history of the man himself.

East Belfast Historical Society

Northern IrelandStudio of Television Arts Radio & Screen

The

Classes at Strand Cinema: Saturday Stage School 10am-1pm

Sunday Singing/Dancing Class 1pm-3pm • Monday Singing/Dancing Class 7pm-8pm Wednesday Night Drama/TV Presenting 6pm-8pm

Register online and find out more at www.nistars.com

Facebook.com/NiStars

The Strand Christmas SpectacularA Christmas Variety Concert.6th - 8th December 2012. 7.45pm.Tickets £8 available on 02890 655830.www.facebook.com/StrandCinemaBelfast

Registration now open for The Strand Stars Talent Show 2013 at www.NiStars.com

Wacky WednesdaysAll Movies £3

Screens, theatrefunction room available for private hire.

Meals deals with Bennets & Silver Leaf available.

Acting Singing Dancing Modelling TV Presenting DJing

Northern IrelandStudio of Television Arts Radio & Screen

The

Classes at Strand Cinema: Saturday Stage School 10am-1pm

Sunday Singing/Dancing Class 1pm-3pm • Monday Singing/Dancing Class 7pm-8pm Wednesday Night Drama/TV Presenting 6pm-8pm

Register online and find out more at www.nistars.com

Facebook.com/NiStars

The Strand Christmas SpectacularA Christmas Variety Concert.6th - 8th December 2012. 7.45pm.Tickets £8 available on 02890 655830.www.facebook.com/StrandCinemaBelfast

Registration now open for The Strand Stars Talent Show 2013 at www.NiStars.com

Wacky WednesdaysAll Movies £3

Screens, theatrefunction room available for private hire.

Meals deals with Bennets & Silver Leaf available.

Acting Singing Dancing Modelling TV Presenting DJing

Plan your time with our handy guide...

Sydenham Parent & Toddler Mon 10-11.30£1 per familyTea/coffee/juice/toast.Inverary Community CentreBT4 1RNTel: 028 9047 1456

St Finnians10-11.30Cregagh Park, BT6 9LF028 9079 2793.

Wandsworth Mums & Chums10-11.45amWandsworth Community26a Belmont Church RdBT4 3FF£1 per family.

Calvary Baptist Mums & Toddlers.10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.100 Dee Street, BT4028 9073 2331

Albertbridge Congregational10.30-12.15Woodstock LinkDonation £1

CFC Mops & Tots9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays from 11/9/12)

CFC Mops9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays from 18/9/12)10 Belmont Rd, BT4 2ANTel: 028 9067 1838www.thisiscfc.com

Mersey Street Presb.Parents & Toddlers10-11.45am term timeMersey Street PresbyterianBT1 1EXTel: 028 90 [email protected]

www.merseystreet.org.uk£1 donation

St Donards Church10am-12Bloomfield Avenue Tel: 028 9065 2321www.stdonards.com£1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice

biscuits and homemade scone.

Strandtown Baptist Tots10.15- 11.45am (term time)Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon CourtBelmont Road, BT4 2ABTel: 028 9080 8380£1 per adult

Busy Bees 10 -11:30amKnock Methodist Church, Knock Road, BT5 6JATel: 07867 [email protected]

smallTALK @ orangefield10-11.45amO’field Church & Community, 464 Castlereagh RoadBT5 6BHTel: 07745 [email protected]

Willowfield Mother and Toddler Group10-12pmWoodstock Road, BT6 8PRTel: 028 9045 [email protected]

Bloomfield Methodist Church10-11.30am£1 per familyGrand Parade

Tel: 028 9065 8946.

Cregagh Mums & Tots10-12pm

Cregagh Community CentreMount Merrion AvenueBT6 OFLTel: 028 9040 1444

Knock Parent & Toddler Group10-11.45amKnock Presbyterian Church53 Kings Road, BT5 6JHTel: Pamela 07921 067927 or Gillian 07803 117619.www.knockpresbyterian.co.uk

Tots ‘R’ Us10.30amHouse of Worship127a Orby Drive, BT5 6BBTel: 07791 776307/07980 984506www.houseofworshipireland.com

St Columba’s Mums & Tots9.45-11.45 (term time)St Columba’s Parish Church29 Kings Road BT5 6JGTel: 028 9065 1412

Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668Zumba 6-7pmAerobics 7-8pm Yoga 8.15-9.30pm

Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukCore fitness 9.30am-10.30amChildrens dance classes 4-7pm Zumba Classes 6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga Classes7.30-8.30pm

Wandsworth CommunityChildrens Irish dancing 4-6.30pm, Aerobics 7.15-8.15pmTai Chi 8.15-9.30pm

TODDLER GROUPS

WhatsOn

Mondays

Wednesdays

Tuesdays

Thursdays

Fridays

Mondays

Tuesdays

EVENTS ETC


HS StudioHair Tanning Nails

Tel: 07854 431830

The HS Studio is situated in a unique location in East Belfast with a comprehensive selection of treatments and products including Label M, L’Oreal, Organic Colouring, Fantasy Tan and Lauren’s Way.

Appointments Tuesday - Saturday, afternoons & evenings

Holly Savage HS Studio

028 9065 1668Busybees musictime for babies 9.45am-10.45am £3.95 per family.Computers for beginners 10am-12 and 1-3pm, Childrens Ju Jitsu 7-8pm Boxing 8.30-9.30pm

Shiloh Hall 07725 91445876 The Mount, BT5 4NDCoffee Morning 10:30-12 noonFree tea, coffee, homemade cakes

Cregagh Community CentreMusical Bumps. Music for babies and toddlers. www.muscialbumps.com

Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668Jump Jiggle & Jive 9.30-12.30, Childrens Art Class 10am-11am & Ignite teens dance 1.30-4.30pm

Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukArt classes 10am-1pmBaby Sensory Classes7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6-8pmEast Belfast Historical Society8th Nov. 7.30pm .Stormont.

Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668LA Dance (kids Hip Hop) 5-6pm Aerobics 7-8pm Core Combat 8.30-10pm

Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Singing 10-1pm

Wandsworth Community

Bloomfield Methodist Church12.30 Over 50’s Lunch Club3 courses for £3.Grand Parade

Tel: 028 9065 8946.

Belmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukBaby massage 10am-1pmYoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm39th Old Boys 7-9pm

Wandsworth Community028 9065 1668Sewing Group 10am-12noonFlower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm, Yoga 7-8.30pm

WhatsOn

Begin your child’s journey toward a lifetime of golf enjoyment with our new and innovative golf class!

Starts 15th November - Wandsworth Community Centre 6 lessons every Thursday

Begin your child’s journey toward a lifetime of golf enjoyment with our new and innovative golf class!

For more information contact Chris Bell

Call: 07796443148Email: [email protected] us: Facebook.com/GolfTastic

Led by PGA class AA Professional with 17yrs experience

Improve Physiology and co-ordination

“Skills for life” through golf ettiquette

Bands and certificates awarded on completion of key skill stages

Indoor classes with safe, child friendly equipment

Led by PGA class AA Professional with 17 years experienceImprove physiology and co-ordination“Skills for life” through golf etiquetteBands and certificates awarded on completion of key skill stagesIndoor classes with safe, child friendly equipment

For more information contact Chris Bell

Call: 07796 443148Email: [email protected]

Find Us: Facebook.com/golftastic

Wednesdays

Plan your time with our handy guide...

Thursdays

Fridays

Saturdays


Is True Beauty Complicated?

Kelly’s Beauty Salon& Oasis tan

At Kelly’s Beauty & Oasis Tanning Salon our aim is to offer you a stress free voyage of harmony, balance and serenity, where each treatment is designed for you, your desires and needs, revealing beauty and total relaxation...

Beauty • Sunbeds • Vibro Plates • Spray Tan

Mon 1-9 Tues-Fri 10-9 Sat 10-459a Comber Road, Dundonald.

Tel 028 9048 3638

NOW OPEN!Hampers • Dummy clips •

Nappy Cakes • Dribble Bibs and much more

Free personalised dummy clip with every purchase over £15 with this ad!

411-413 Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 1AQ.

[email protected]

Elizabeth’s Home Bakery

29 Belmont Rd. BT4 2AA Tel: 028 9065 4871


My brother in law used to manage a hotel in the Isle of Man.’ says Noel of his culinary background. ‘I went over as a barman but he was short staffed in the kitchen and he brought me in there and

my passion for food escalated from there really.’ Noel then came back to Belfast and worked in Saints and Scholars for 18 months before moving to Maloneys and when the first Ruby Tuesdays opened around 18 years ago on the Lisburn road he relocated there. ‘The concept did well and had three in Belfast; Lisburn Road, Stranmillis and Antrim Road. I ran the restaurants for a lady called Angela McGinley at the time. Then I wanted to take my career in a different direction so joined Botanic Inns, staying with them for nine years.’ Noel took a sabbatical for two years and came back with the inspiration that there would be a market to regenerate the Ruby’s brand again in Dundonald. That was August 2011 and the new restaurant opened in the October as Ruby Tuesday in East Belfast. ‘I always felt it was a great brand and people knew the name and what we were about. We were always famous for our food, especially our breakfasts. Most of the original items on our menu originated from the first Ruby’s. But we have modernised them to fit into what people want now.’ So what can people expect when they visit Ruby’s for the first time? ‘A warm welcome, friendly service and very good food at reasonable prices. We know the industry well and the recession hits hard so we want to give the best value for money. Between myself and the other kitchen members who also worked in the old branch there’s probably around 45 years experience between us plus we have talented young chefs from East Belfast making their mark. We do a great two course lunch for £7.95 which features the best of local produce. We try to use local suppliers, keeping the money we spend within East Belfast and helping the local economy. In the evening we do pizza, pasta, surf and turf all at reasonable prices. Our chicken fajitas are well spoken of around East Belfast as is our chicken peri peri. Our beef is sourced from Armstrong Meats on the Castlereagh Road and they have their own abattoir so it’s good NI beef that we use. I worked in Tony Roma’s for almost five years years, but I think our ribs here are second to none. The way they’re prepared and finished and the sticky BBQ sauce that I was taught in Miami when I was training was a great inspiration, the full rack is great value, very tasty and very messy too!’ The restaurant is also extremely child friendly with a dedicated kiddie corner with the emphasis on casual dining encouraging people to relax and appreciate the good food and service. ‘We do BYO as well,’ says Noel ‘and a couple of great deals on a Tuesday and Thursday; two 10 oz sirloins, all the trimmings, choice of sauces plus four bottles of bud for £30. We also do a deal with the cinema for two cinema tickets, two main courses and a bottle of wine for £35.’

Ruby Tuesday’s is a name that many of us will know from living in Belfast. The restaurant very much lives on in Dundonald and we spoke to owner Noel to get an insight into what they offer.

East Point Entertainment Village Old Dundonald Road, Dundonald. Tel 028 9048 5566Facebook: Cafe Ruby Tuesdays.

FoodFocus

A Classic Revival

Discount Beds Belfast100’s Of Quality

Beds And Mattresses In Stock Ready For Free Local Delivery

8 Templemore Avenue Belfast BT5 4FP www.discountbedsbelfast.co.uk

UP TO 10 SHADES LIGHTER

Laser Teeth WhiteningWas £79NOW £50Offer only available at Trim Tone Tan Belfast215 Castlereagh Road - Opposite new TESCO. Tel: 028 9045 0433

RETUBED SUNBEDS72 mins for £2590 mins for £30

UNLIMITEDToning for only £20 per month

Full range of Beauty & Nails by Annielise

GRAND REOPENING 3rd NOVMBER! DRINKS & NIBBLES PROVIDED


My work came about while studying architecture at the Art College in Belfast, says Deborah. ‘It was only while studying for my Masters that I

discovered that I could use different media to express my ideas. I have always had a big interest in textiles and studying in the Art College in Belfast made it easier for me to explore different ideas. I began by making a series of maps which went along with my thesis and made a series of machine stitched maps showing the changing of the city pattern throughout history. The Ulster Museum bought these from me and I think that’s when I realised I could maybe take my methods and ideas further. The original copy of these maps sits in permanent display at the Ulster Folk Museum.’ When Deborah completed her Masters she started looking into new ideas and began making small pieces such as cushions and panels. It was only really about a year ago that she decided she would try and sell her pieces. ‘I applied for a stall at St George’s Market and over the Christmas period I attended a few craft fairs. I got a permanent Sunday stall at St George’s Market a few months ago and things have been going really well. All of my work is machine stitched and hand made using unbleached Irish Linen. I source all of my linen locally from a mill in Dungiven. My work has a lot of unique qualities. I will never make the same thing twice. If someone requests something the same as I have done before I will always make sure it is done on a different type of linen or in a slightly different way. I take a lot of commissions. I think my work sparks an idea in people’s minds and it’s nice to work along with them to create what they want.’ So with such a fascinating career path to date, what has been the highlight for Deborah? ‘It was a great feeling to see my work displayed in the Ulster Folk Museum and for them to want to buy my collection of maps from me. But that was really only the beginning and I still feel I am only getting started so hopefully there will be a few more highlights along the way. I also love the relationship I get to build up with my clients and getting to work along with them on ideas and creating what they imagine. It’s definitely a highlight when people have seen work I’ve done for someone else or they have heard about me from other people and they come to me because they love what I do. I enjoy the idea of distinguishable patterns, especially when something like a map or a skyline which is very structured and architectural, can be made into something soft and tactile. These individually designed, machine stitched and handmade pieces are all made from unbleached Irish Linen. I am continually exploring different ideas and methods to add to my collection of works. I love that I get to experiment with my ideas. I have the freedom to create what I desire and I am always working on new designs and pieces. I just really enjoy that freedom.’

Deborah Toner’s custom sewing and embroidery is hand made, bespoke and beautiful. We find out more about her wonderful creations.

Stitched Up

‘

RisingStar

Deborah is at St George’s Market every Sunday from 10am-4pm and is currently taking Christmas orders. Visit www.deborahtoner.co.uk for updates, stockist additions or find her on Facebook under Deborah Toner, Custom Sewing and Embroidery. Also stocked in Kingfisher Gift Shop in Killyleagh.

Right: City Hall.

Left: A commission by Deborah.

Multicoloured Skyline

Right: One of Deborah’s signature map designs.


It’s been in our family over 50 years,’ says Mandy. ‘I’m 3rd generation, Katrina 4th generation. It was originally

bought in the 50s as two semi detached villas. One of these, Cranthorpe House was developed into a hotel. There was then a fire in 1964 which destroyed them both. It reopened in 1967 and was the first in Ulster to be purpose built as a hotel. From there theres been significant periodic investment.’After the fire there were 76 bedrooms, a bar, restaurant and functions rooms. The building and business gradually developed over the years and in the early 80’s the ‘Chalet’ was demolished and was replaced with The Oxford Suite function room which could be divided into three separate areas. In the early 80’s the ‘Cambridge Rooms’ underwent major refurbishment along with the hotel bedrooms. Still wanting to progress and keep up with demand, fully ensuite bedrooms were built in the early 1990’s bringing the total down to 56, along with renovations in the ballroom and the major redevelopment of the foyer and reception entrance. ‘Now all the external function rooms have been demolished and we’ve added those as part of the main hotel over the years,’ says Katrina. ‘The most recent refurbishment was when all the bedrooms were redesigned and we’re 4 star now since 2009. It was a 2 star until 15 years ago, then 5 years ago we felt the market was ready and got our 4 stars with a £3m investment.’ Mandy and Katrina talk positively about the friendly, close knit hotel industry in Belfast with everyone helping each other out. And that close knit ethos extends to the community. ‘We’ve had great community support from weddings, funerals, christenings, family celebrations, anniversaries of people who got married here decades ago who come back every year or their children getting married. We wouldn’t be here without the support of our community. We get regulars to the bar, restaurant and also accommodation wise too.’ Mandy’s work echoes the hotel’s commitment to its surroundings with ties to East Belfast Partnership (EBP), NI Tourist Board, Tourism Ireland, Vice President of the NI Hotel Federation,, Deputy Chair NI Consumer Council and she received an MBE for services to tourism two years ago. ‘As part of the EBP we hope to have our civic square soon at Holywood Arches, the tourist info centre, the Greenway and along with Titanic quarter bring the story of Titanic people to life to give tourists an option to put in an hour or two in east Belfast. The community have supported us so we want to give a little bit back. Katrina and Mandy speak extremely highly of the staff and see them as one of the key factors in the hotel’s success and longevity in the area. ‘The staff are very important, we are a big employer and they are magnificent, as we take more on we just keep getting stronger and stronger. Our customer feedback highlights the staff performance.’ And what about any famous guests who may have checked in over the years? ‘We’ve had everyone from major football teams, Alan Hansen, George Best, Van Morrison to people from Made in Chelsea! There wouldn’t have been a choice in the 70s and 80s. The city centre wasn’t an option for people. So, overall peace has been the greatest thing to happen in this country and things have improved from there not just in the industry, but life here in general.’

The Park Avenue Hotel has been as much of a value to the local community as it has to the people from all over the world who come to stay. We spoke to Sales & Marketing Manager Katrina Martin and Director Mandy Patrick to find out why.

158 Holywood Road Belfast BT4 1PB. Tel 028 9065 6520. www.parkavenuehotel.co.uk

LocalLegend

Be Their Guest

The 50’s The 70’s

One of the bedrooms, present day.

‘

No.36Fresh, Local, Homecooked Nosh

Home cooking at its best using fresh local ingredients.

Daily specials on breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

36 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9065 7476 [email protected]

Now taking orders for home baked Christmas hampers

bloom november 2012

Documents

local produce

local legends

local restaurant reviews

incredible local trade

food focus

rising star

bloom magazine

new sd bells book