Belfast News Letter

Cliftonville's 'strong character' hailed for bouncing back from injury nightmare

Johnny Morton — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:52:08 GMT

Cliftonville assistant manager Gerard Lyttle has praised Rhyss Campbell for bouncing back from his injury nightmare as “a bigger, better, stronger person and player” – and believes he’s delivering on the promise the Reds management team always knew he had.

Farming jobs fall sharply as Northern Ireland employment in general grows: Work 'still has to happen, but cash-strapped families can't afford labour' says UFU

Iain Gray — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:43:36 GMT

Jobs in agriculture in Northern Ireland have seen the steepest decline of all sectors in Northern Ireland, at the same time as employment in general massively increased.

Musical tutor who worked at schools across Belfast to stand trial accused of trafficking teenage boy for sexual exploitation

Alan Erwin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:41:07 GMT

A musical tutor who worked at schools across Belfast is to stand trial accused of trafficking a teenage boy for sexual exploitation, a judge ordered today.

'It's a real honour to welcome His Royal Highness': Northern Ireland construction firm's new headquarter fit for royalty

Claire Cartmill — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:28:25 GMT

The Duke of Gloucester’s visit marks 50th anniversary milestone as construction of the company’s new headquarters nears completion

Cole Haan completes global SAP S/4HANA transformation in 18 months

Ailsa Marshall — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:06:45 GMT

Fashion brand Cole Haan has completed a global SAP S/4HANA transformation across North America, Europe and Asia, with support from Applexus Technologies.

'So much potential...but really good lad too': Arsenal-bound teenager tipped for bright future by ex-Irish League star

Johnny Morton — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:05:45 GMT

Former Larne goalkeeper Conor Mitchell believes Arsenal-bound teenager Phoenix Blayney has “so much potential” – but feels it’s his off-pitch characteristics which could also help the “humble” shot-stopper thrive in the future.

'We have worked towards this for a number of years': Up to 15 new jobs as Northern Ireland family-run firm secures place on £1.5billion UK Government framework

Claire Cartmill — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 12:05:13 GMT

Barclay Communications becomes the only Northern Ireland-headquartered provider appointed to the £300 million mobile solutions of the UK Government's £1.5 billion telecoms framework

'This one we can’t come back from': Community raises almost £15,000 for Co Armagh father-and-son mechanics after devastating garage fire

Claire Cartmill — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:55:18 GMT

GoFundMe appeal for father-and-son team Paul and Mark Hughes has raised almost £15,000 in two days following the loss of their business, equipment and a treasured car.

New government-backed campaign urges small businesses to ‘Open Your Door’ to young people

Ailsa Marshall — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:49:56 GMT

The new campaign aims to encourage small businesses to provide work experience and job opportunities to young people, helping them develop skills and gain employment.

More firms in Northern Ireland become eligible for British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme

Michael Scott — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:49:00 GMT

The British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme is expanding its reach, enabling accredited lenders to support businesses with group turnover of up to £54m, increased from £45m. This means that more than 12,000 businesses across the UK could benefit from the Scheme if the lender cannot provide finance on more commercial terms.

Why it is still important to remember on Armistice Day

Stevan Patterson — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:48:51 GMT

Each year at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we as a nation stop for two minutes. More than a century after the guns first fell silent on the Western Front in 1918, Armistice Day and its message of remembrance is still relevant.

Traffic & Travel: Dungannon road closed following ‘serious’ traffic collision

Michael Cousins — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:42:58 GMT

A serious collision has closed a road near Dungannon

Lurgan rooftop ‘Garden of Reflection’ will 'provide for regeneration of a town centre site in need of revitalisation'

François Vincent and Local Democracy Reporter — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:41:56 GMT

On the back of plans approved last May to turn the former Allied Irish Bank branch in Lurgan into a community hub, new plans have now been approved for a ‘Garden of Reflection’ roof terrace at the back of the building.

Cans for Christmas: Movie House cinemas invite moviegoers to swap tins for tickets to support local food banks

Una Culkin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:41:26 GMT

This Christmas, Movie House cinemas are giving customers the chance to enjoy a festive film while helping make a difference to families in need across Northern Ireland.

“They had no choice” - Causeway Coast Dog Rescue honours animals who served in war

By The Newsroom — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:41:00 GMT

The manager of a north coast animal charity has laid a wreath at London’s Animals in War Memorial, honouring the animals that served, suffered and died alongside humans in wartime.

FCM Travel appoints Mark McSpadden as Chief Product Officer to lead product and AI strategy

Ailsa Marshall — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:33:48 GMT

Mark McSpadden, a seasoned travel industry leader with over 15 years' experience, has been appointed as Chief Product Officer at FCM Travel to oversee the company's product and AI strategy, including the development and integration of its core capabilities.

Trust encourages men to be cancer aware this month

David Rankin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:26:53 GMT

With Men's Health Month taking place throughout November, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust is encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their health by learning the signs and symptoms of cancers that predominantly affect men and seeking medical advice if they have any concerns.

Beyond the scales: NI adults wanted for major weight loss study

David Rankin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:25:50 GMT

People in Northern Ireland are encouraged to share their experiences of significant weight loss as part of a major UK-wide study looking beyond the numbers on the scales to understand how weight loss affects everyday life.

Mum says she was given “leaflets but not much else” after learning baby son was deaf

David Rankin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:24:43 GMT

When Mason Boyd was identified as profoundly deaf as a baby, his mother Janine, found it a “scary and unknown time”.

Hidden service: NI hospital's battle against bowel conditions

David Rankin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:22:24 GMT

A spotlight is being shone on the often hidden Regional Calprotectin Service at the Ulster Hospital, which plays a crucial role in the battle against bowel conditions across Northern Ireland.

"My brain felt scrambled": Tyrone father highlights the invisible lifelong toll of stroke

David Rankin — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:20:59 GMT

In February 2017, life changed forever for the McDonnell family from County Tyrone.

Northern Ireland hosting World Cup moves one step closer - with FIFA revealing Windsor Park upgrade plans

Johnny Morton — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:18:22 GMT

Northern Ireland has moved one step closer to hosting the 2035 Women’s World Cup after FIFA confirmed the United Kingdom's joint-bid “meets minimum hosting requirements” and will now be presented to the Extraordinary Congress later this month.

Avicenna Foundation scholars gain first-hand insight into global climate challenges at COP31 in Türkiye

Ailsa Marshall — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:12:45 GMT

Young leaders attend the UN climate conference in Antalya, Türkiye to gain new perspectives on climate change, international cooperation and the importance of global dialogue

How Michael Carrick compared to Man Utd’s other bosses since Sir Alex Ferguson

Sports Staff — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 11:02:57 GMT

Michael Carrick has been sacked as Manchester United head coach.

'Legend' Michael Carrick sacked by Manchester United

Simon Peach — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:53:01 GMT

Michael Carrick has been sacked as Manchester United head coach.

'First step in our long-term growth plans': Northern Ireland fourth-generation family bakery business turns up the heat with £1.6m investment

Claire Cartmill — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:47:55 GMT

McDaid’s Bakery owner to boost production capacity and jobs with new technology and automation at Skeoge Industrial Estate

'That makes me look good' - Ulster's Stuart McCloskey salutes Ireland team-mate’s work ethic

Sports Staff — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:23:37 GMT

Stuart McCloskey says he is benefitting from fellow Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw, who “does all the work that makes me look good”.

'Opportunity to invest, create jobs and help build a stronger economy': More Northern Ireland businesses eligible for expanded £6.5bn finance scheme

Claire Cartmill — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:18:30 GMT

British Business Bank increases turnover threshold for its Growth Guarantee Scheme, potentially opening up access to finance for thousands more firms across the UK

It takes just 12 seconds to experience ‘WiFi rage’ when a webpage refuses to load

Oliver Lewis — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:13:27 GMT

A survey of 2,000 adults found that two-thirds have succumbed to 'WiFi rage', with broadband speed and connectivity woes becoming a regular frustration for many.

Family distraught as council and Northern Ireland Water in dispute over leak at grave

Donal McMahon — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:54:44 GMT

A Lisburn family has been left “distraught” over water leaking next to their loved ones’ grave as a council and government owned company dispute responsibility.

Budding homebuyers hold fire as four in 10 wait for property prices to drop

Rich Jenkins — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:49:13 GMT

According to a recent survey, four in 10 homebuyers are delaying their purchases as they wait for property prices to drop, with many hoping to take advantage of a potential market downturn.

Jamie Dornan says executive producing on new heist series ‘a big responsibility’

By Carla Feric and Press Association Entertainment Reporter — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:41:47 GMT

The pair will star in Apple TV show 12 12 12.

DX acquires Fulfil with Synergy

Robert Morton — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:35:33 GMT

DX, a leading provider of integrated 3PL solutions across parcel, freight, fulfilment and final mile, announces the acquisition of Fulfil with Synergy (“FwS”), a founder-led third-party logistics business specialising in multi-channel fulfilment, retail distribution and value-added services. The acquisition expands DX's existing contract logistics capabilities and service offering to its customers.

NORTHERN IRELAND STARS SUPPORT THE SALVATION ARMY FAMILY APPEAL AT CHRISTMAS 2026

Rachael Harriott — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:34:55 GMT

The Salvation Army is calling on the public to support its Family Appeal at Christmas 2026, with Northern Ireland stars Ian McElhinney (actor and director), Marie Jones (actor and playwright) and Denise Watson (sports broadcaster and journalist) joining staff, volunteers and business partners to help bring Christmas joy to families in need.

Years of Service Don’t Equal Expertise: Why I Support TransformED

Darrágh Conway — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:34:42 GMT

Over recent weeks, my public support for TransformED has prompted considerable discussion about the future of education in Northern Ireland. Whilst many have engaged constructively with my arguments, others have questioned whether my age and relatively limited length of service as a teacher qualify me to contribute to the debate.

Nicola Grant Workers Party Representative for Newry and Armagh has condemned the hypocrisy of those parties who have agreed the Bengoa report and other reports to centralise and reconfigure hospitals

The Workers Party Northern Ireland Region — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:32:53 GMT

Ms Grant said it is absolute hypocrisy for those parties who have brought us Transferring your care and the Bengoa report heath ministers Poots, and health minster O’Neill claiming to support local hospitals when they are responsible for creating the chaos and crisis faced by rural communities.

Launch a Veterans' Day for East Londonderry, urges UUP's Robinson

John Coulter — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:32:11 GMT

Mr Matthew Robinson, the East Londonderry Ulster Unionist Party Assembly candidate, has called for a Veterans’ Day to be established in the constituency to run as part of the Armed Forces Day celebrations.

Craig Revel Horwood reveals the exact moment Christmas begins

Kathryn Chatfield — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 09:18:05 GMT

Forget the mince pies, Christmas adverts and Mariah Carey – nothing gets people feeling festive quite like seeing the Christmas decorations go up and the lights switched on.

Armagh's Georgian Festival To Welcome Thousands With Translink Partnership

Daniel Mallon — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:23:15 GMT

The beloved Armagh Georgian Festival is set to return this November, and with an extended Translink partnership, this year’s event will offer expanded travel options for more visitors across the island to join the beginning of the regions festive season.

Belfast jobs: the 5 highest-paying roles employers are advertising right now – up to £56,250

Milan Drobac — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:23:00 GMT

Financial advisor roles are the best-paid jobs being advertised in and around Belfast right now, with a median salary of £56,250 a year, according to new analysis by recruitment agency Bernoullis Group. Management accountant (£49,362) and HGV mechanic (£44,400) complete the top three.

Boots Black Friday 2026: 13 beauty bargains including £50 LED face mask and £49 Lancôme gift set

Julie Bayley — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:16:39 GMT

Boots has launched its biggest-ever Black Friday sale, with huge discounts on designer perfumes, luxury beauty gift sets and electrical beauty gadgets from Lancôme, Gucci, Clinique and more.

Editorial: Opening up to the cameras has helped depoliticise the PSNI

Editorial — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 07:54:04 GMT

News Letter editorial on Thursday November 12 2026

Police officers targeted vulnerable women for sexual purposes, MLAs told

By Rebecca Black and Press Association — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 07:51:43 GMT

Women with “known vulnerabilities” were targeted by police officers for sexual purposes, a police watchdog has said.

‘Shedload’ of Troubles inquiries likely without Legacy body funding, MPs warned

Claudia Savage — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 07:49:26 GMT

MPs have been warned of the potential for a “shedload” of Troubles-related public inquiries if an investigative body is not given adequate resources to conduct its work.

Comedian Tim McGarry on why laughter is indeed the best medicine

David O'Dornan — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 07:42:52 GMT

The maxim that “laughter is the best medicine” can be traced back to the King James version of the Bible, but for local comedian Tim McGarry he has watched this in real time in recent months.

Mrs Hinch shares her new L'Oréal Paris make-up favourites and they're in the Black Friday sale

Rochelle Barrand — Thu, 12 Nov 2026 07:30:10 GMT

Mrs Hinch has shared her latest make-up routine, revealing the L'Oréal Paris products she loves - and you can buy them yourself in the Black Friday sales.

Ring of steel see parts of Dublin brought to standstill ahead of major EU events

By Cate McCurry — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 20:37:01 GMT

The biggest security operation in the history of the Irish state is under way, as authorities in Dublin mount a ring of steel throughout the capital.

Murder accused's mother 'saw him hit Carrie Mullane and could not save her' court is told

By the newsroom — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 20:23:23 GMT

The mother of a man charged with murdering Carrie Mullane (also known by the surname Noonan) has appeared in court in relation to withholding information.

Class A drugs and luxury watches seized in Co Antrim raids as two men being quizzed by police

Adam Kula — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 20:09:42 GMT

Two men are being questioned by police following raids on properties and vehicles.

'It was a nice moment' - Ciaron Brown kept promise to four-year-old daughter with Northern Ireland goals

Ian Parker — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 19:35:56 GMT

Ciaron Brown has revealed how his young daughter inspired him to score his first international goals for Northern Ireland last month.

Detectives investigating whether five Co Down burglaries are connected

Adam Kula — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 19:17:03 GMT

The PSNI is investigating possible links between five burglaries in Co Down.

Man dies in hospital five months after being hit by car in north Belfast

Adam Kula — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:51:55 GMT

A man has died of injuries sustained when a car hit him five months ago.

Here's where you can get the outfit Stacey Solomon wore on The One Show

Rochelle Barrand — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:22:18 GMT

Stacey Solomon has told fans she ‘can’t believe how nice’ the matching two piece is.

One of Northern Ireland's top judges dies at 70 shortly after retiring

Adam Kula — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:13:08 GMT

One of Northern Ireland’s most senior judges has died, aged 70.

Armistice Day 2026 Northern Ireland 'honours heroes of past and prepares us for next conflict'

Philip Bradfield — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:11:05 GMT

Armistice Day is an opportunity to honour the many men and women who gave their lives to preserve the freedom enjoyed by people today – but also to consider that the UK may need to do it again in the near future, the Veterans Commissioner has said.

Police probe links between last month's school bomb hoax and new threats: PSNI joins with Scotland's force for investigation

Iain Gray — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 17:13:53 GMT

The PSNI is probing connections between today’s hoax bomb threats to schools and one that sparked mass evacuations last month.

'This was an excellent six months': Revenue surges 37% at Northern Ireland IT firm to £268.8m

Claire Cartmill — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 17:03:55 GMT

Belfast-headquartered IT provider delivers strong first-half performance, driven by major Digital Services contract wins and continued growth across its Workday divisions

Jackery Black Friday sale cuts portable power prices by up to 58%

Gareth Butterfield — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:45:37 GMT

With households encouraged to prepare for disruption, Jackery’s latest sale offers a timely chance to explore backup power. Discounts include £521 off the Explorer 1000 v2, alongside larger batteries and solar panels

Sort out the local game first - top Irish League manager responds to Taoiseach's all-Ireland football call

David Thompson — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:45:05 GMT

A top local manager has said improvements must be made to football in Northern Ireland before any attempts to create an all-Ireland league, after comments by the Irish prime minister Micheál Martin.

'Supporting local is also at the heart of what we do': £1m investment transforms Northern Ireland Centra store and forecourt

Claire Cartmill — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:39:34 GMT

Musgrave NI unveils upgraded Banbridge store, with improved facilities, a revamped forecourt and enhancements to the customer experience

School terror bomb threat hoax: 'Utterly reprehensible' culprits should be ashamed of inflicting fear on children, says teachers' body

Iain Gray — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:33:42 GMT

The people behind today’s hoax bomb threat should be ashamed of the fear and anxiety they’ve inflicted on children, a major teaching union has said.

Alterations to plans for 80-unit housing development in Coleraine submitted to Causeway Coast and Glens Council

By The Newsroom — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:31:23 GMT

Adjustments to plans for a residential development in Coleraine’s Killowen area, comprising 80 housing units, have been submitted to Causeway Coast and Glens Council.

'I like that in a player' - Duncan Ferguson celebrates signing boost from player 'always looking to make something happen'

Patrick Van Dort — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:27:16 GMT

High-profile Glentoran manager Duncan Ferguson has celebrated a signing boost within his first month in charge from a player “always looking to make something happen”.

'Unrecognisable from that of just 10 years ago': Family-owned forecourt retailer announces £14m Northern Ireland investment plan with up to 100 jobs

Claire Cartmill — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 15:47:58 GMT

Maxol has earmarked funding for major redevelopments, new facilities and EV charging hubs, subject to planning approval

'On Saturday we’ll be looking to change that' - Northern Ireland out to end home frustrations, says Terry Devlin

Ian Parker — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 14:50:20 GMT

Northern Ireland have enjoyed a superb Nations League campaign so far but with one obvious frustration – dropping points in both of their matches at Windsor Park.

PSNI chief hopes Stephen Nolan's Peelers documentary will encourage people to sign up in police recruitment campaign

David Thompson — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 14:45:36 GMT

Jon Boutcher says he hopes the new series of a BBC documentary following his officers on the beat will encourage people from all backgrounds to sign up for a career in policing.

US cancel planned media access as Man Utd eye Mauricio Pochettino move

Simon Peach & Jamie Gardner — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 14:43:05 GMT

The United States have cancelled media access scheduled for Wednesday as Manchester United prepare to make a move for their head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

'He is one of my idols' - Eugenio Chacarra relishing dream Rory McIlroy showdown for Race to Dubai crown

Jim van Wijk — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 14:35:25 GMT

Eugenio Chacarra hopes he can bring his A-game and fend off Rory McIlroy at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship to claim the Race to Dubai title.

Report claims more than 80 per cent of UK councils face EV charging capacity bottlenecks

Ailsa Marshall — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 13:42:53 GMT

A new index published by electrification specialist Karas Plating suggests electrical grid constraints could become a major barrier to electric vehicle adoption, with most UK local authorities facing infrastructure pressures.

Share Energy scores with Downshire Dynamos at Halloween celebrations

Ana Corradini — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 13:22:15 GMT

Share Energy joined 80 young footballers for Downshire Dynamos’ annual Halloween party at Lisburn Golf Club, as part of its ongoing support for the Royal Hillsborough football academy.