Ballymena traders tee up for Open

A host of Ballymena town centre traders are preparing to be part of this year's NI Open golf tournament which takes place from Thursday 10th to Sunday 13th August 2017 at Galgorm Castle.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Jul 2017, 19:48 BST
Updated 11th Sep 2017, 11:54 BST
Cllr Audrey Wales, chair of the BID Business Support Group is pictured with Ross Oliver, NI Open event manager with BID director Roy SmythCllr Audrey Wales, chair of the BID Business Support Group is pictured with Ross Oliver, NI Open event manager with BID director Roy Smyth
Cllr Audrey Wales, chair of the BID Business Support Group is pictured with Ross Oliver, NI Open event manager with BID director Roy Smyth

With crowds of almost 40,000 spectators attending in 2016, this year’s event is gearing up to be even bigger and better and will be a brilliant opportunity for local traders to be involved.

As part of the four-day event, a selection of businesses have been given the chance to exhibit in the NI Open Village by Ballymena Business Improvement District (BID).

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BID members involved in the exhibition include Outdoor Adventure, David Bellingham Menswear, Primrose Boutique, Tilly Anna’s, Willow Beauty and Marmalade.

The businesses will showcase what they, and the town, has to offer to visitors and build business links with attendees from all over the UK, Ireland and further afield.

“I am delighted that Ballymena BID members will be taking part in the NI Open,” said BID manager Alison Moore.

“With such a prestigious golf tournament on our doorstep, it gives local businesses the opportunity to promote what the town has to offer.

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“A key aim of the BID is to encourage growth, development and investment in local businesses and by having a range of businesses involved with the event, we hope that by promoting what is available in Ballymena town centre we will continue to see more visitors coming to the area. I expect the traders will have a busy few days at the tournament.”

Now in its fifth year, this annual national professional tournament attracts a strong contingent of Irish European tour winners such as local man Michael Hoey.

Open event manager Ross Oliver said; “We are looking forward to once again hosting the NI Open and are busy with preparations. We are confident that 2017 will be the best year yet and are delighted that local businesses will have the opportunity to be part of the event.”

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