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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Geraldine Kearns pictured with (L to R) Newry, Mourne and Down Engagement and Development Manager, Kerri Morrow; Alannah Brennan and her daughter Ruby Brennan; Meabh, Freya with Dad Darren and Kerry from Wee Bugs and Beasties.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Geraldine Kearns pictured with (L to R) Newry, Mourne and Down Engagement and Development Manager, Kerri Morrow; Alannah Brennan and her daughter Ruby Brennan; Meabh, Freya with Dad Darren and Kerry from Wee Bugs and Beasties.

McClelland Park in Newry played host at the weekend to a celebration of local wildlife and environmental awareness. Organised by the Newry DEA Forum in partnership with Radius Housing's Housing for All Scheme, the Wildlife in the City event brought nature directly to the heart of the city centre. It's the second year of Wildlife in the City and the event has proven popular and impactful.

Co Louth Beekeepers Association  stand at Wildlife in the City - From left: Liam Dinsmore, Sean Campbell, John Thorp, Paul Boyle and Charles O’Brien.
Co Louth Beekeepers Association stand at Wildlife in the City - From left: Liam
Dinsmore, Sean Campbell, John Thorp, Paul Boyle and Charles O’Brien.

Visitors enjoyed live animal encounters, interactive arts and crafts, face painting, and hands-on planting stations, all designed to foster understanding of the local environment. Information stands provided insights into wildlife and conservation efforts.

Families engaged with representatives from various organisations. Louth Beekeepers shared knowledge about bees and pollinator health, whilst the Ring of Gullion Red Squirrel Group discussed efforts to protect native red squirrel populations. Ulster Wildlife offered information on local conservation initiatives and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful encouraged children to discover minibeasts. The Southern Health and Social Care Trust highlighted the benefits of green spaces for mental and physical wellbeing.

John O'Hanlon and family (L to R) Aodhla, John, Ruairi holding Róhan, Trevor Short from Wee Bugs and Beasties and Charlie.
John O'Hanlon and family (L to R) Aodhla, John, Ruairi holding Róhan, Trevor Short
from Wee Bugs and Beasties and Charlie.

Expressing her delight at the event's success, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Geraldine Kearns said, "We were thrilled to see so many families engaging with nature and learning about the incredible biodiversity right on our doorstep.

"Biodiversity is vital for our environment and health. The Council is dedicated to preserving and enhancing biodiversity across the district, which starts with awareness and action at a local level."

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