Coleraine Connect says thank you to businesses who helped bring Fairytale Trail to life
Coleraine Connect has recognised the local businesses who helped bring a little fairytale magic to the town centre throughout October, presenting them with special certificates of appreciation for their involvement in the hugely popular Bricks Fairytale Trail.
The trail, which formed part of The Great Coleraine Build, saw 13 spectacular brick-built fairytale models displayed in shop windows across the town, transforming Coleraine into a magical destination for families and visitors throughout the month.
From Cinderella's Carriage and the Big Bad Wolf to Rapunzel and the Three Little Pigs, the colourful creations encouraged families to explore Coleraine's streets, discover local businesses and enjoy a free, interactive experience.
The initiative proved a tremendous success, attracting visitors from across Northern Ireland and further afield, with competition entries received from 76 postcode districts, including visitors from England and Scotland.
Importantly, the trail also encouraged visitors to explore parts of the town centre they might not otherwise have discovered, helping to showcase Coleraine's diverse mix of independent retailers and established businesses.
To recognise their contribution, Coleraine Connect invited representatives from participating businesses to a special presentation outside Coleraine Town Hall, where each received a framed certificate as a token of appreciation for hosting the models and for their continued commitment to the town.
Jonny Fielding, Chair of Coleraine Connect, said: “The Bricks Fairytale Trail was a wonderful example of what can be achieved when our business community comes together.
"Our retailers embraced the initiative wholeheartedly, welcoming thousands of visitors into the town and helping create something really special for families throughout October.
“We are incredibly grateful for their enthusiasm, support and continued commitment to Coleraine. Presenting these certificates was a small but meaningful way of saying thank you."
The Bricks Fairytale Trail was one of the highlights of The Great Coleraine Build, an ambitious programme of family-friendly activities which also included the hugely successful National Brick Events weekend.
The programme helped deliver significant increases in town-centre footfall, while participating businesses reported welcoming new customers, increased trading activity and visitors from well beyond the local area.
Coleraine Connect hopes to build on this success with further initiatives that encourage people to shop, spend time and enjoy everything the town has to offer.
Jonny added: “Our businesses are at the heart of Coleraine, and their willingness to get involved is what makes initiatives like this possible. We want to continue building that sense of partnership and pride in our town, creating experiences that benefit businesses, residents and visitors alike."