As Northern Ireland slowly emerges from the public health restrictions, one thing we have all learned throughout our Covid pandemic journey is that Community really means everything. Here in Portaferry we have witnessed the ‘giant spirit’ of kindness and generosity from business, community, church leaders and from friends and strangers alike.

John Dumigan, Chairperson of Portaferry Regeneration Ltd said, “We may be a small village on the tip of the Ards Peninsula, but we have a big heart and it was amazing to witness our retailers, many of whom have been established in the town for decades, whilst others more recent, work tirelessly to help and support the local needs of everyone. Even going the extra mile to deliver to homes when it wasn’t possible to visit in person.”

“From foodbanks to welcome packs, hot meals to food parcels, treats and virtual music events, podcasts supporting our young people, neighbourly gestures, and connecting with our friends and family overseas via our Ferry FM radio, these are just few of the acts of kindness and generosity which have been so important over the last year, and we thank each and everyone who contributed to this giant spirit during our long lockdown periods.”

Portaferry Regeneration Ltd we launched our ‘Keep it Local’ campaign in 2018 which was extremely successful. Little did we know how important that launch would become in March 2020, when we all were so reliant on our local shops and services.’

John continued, “By way of support and acknowledgement to our many retailers and staff who worked tirelessly to help us through the pandemic, this is the perfect opportunity to show our continued support for the local businesses by ‘Keep it Local’ as we continue to emerge from restrictions and help rebuild their business and our local economy.”

Another great initiative, ‘The Market on the Square’, will be returning on Saturday 3 July with a fabulous range of quality local food and drink produce alongside a wonderful selection of art and crafts and it is hoped that this will bring an additional boost to Portaferry. We hope to welcome many residents and visitors to the Artisan Markets, our local shops, attractions and activities to help kick start the local economic recovery.

Follow us on Facebook/MarketontheSquare for all the latest information or contact the Portaferry Regeneration Ltd on 028 4272 9598 or email: hannah@portaferryregeneration.com