A number of people were arrested on the scene of a burglary in Tandragee during the early hours of Friday morning.

The Spar supermarket in the town was targeted for the second time in 12 months.

Newry & Armagh DUP Assemblyman William Irwin MLA has led the condemnation at what he described as a “concerning” incident.

Mr Irwin said that individuals have been arrested at the scene and that the PSNI are actively investigating the break-in.

“This is a concerning incident and I understand individuals were seen inside the shop in the early hours of this morning,” he said.

“Police moved quickly and arrests have been made and investigations of the scene are continuing.”

He added: “This is the second incident at the SPAR in Tandragee with a robbery incident last December leaving staff shocked and shaken.

“Tandragee does not need this type of criminality and I thank both the Police and the public for their vigilance in this regard.”

DUP Alderman Gareth Wilson added: “I thank the PSNI for their swift work and also the public for their vigilance. It is unacceptable that valued local retail services are targeted in this way and hopefully those behind this criminality will face the courts.”

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A man accused of stealing from a free-standing ATM inside a Tandragee shop is due to appear in court today (Saturday).

The man has been charged with a number of offences including burglary with intent to steal, attempted theft and criminal damage.

He is expected to appear at Newry Magistrates’ court.

As is usual procedure the charges will be reviewed by the PPS.

The charges follow an attempted theft from a freestanding ATM inside a shop on Church Street, Tandragee on Friday, December 20.

Speaking following the incident, Newry & Armagh DUP MLA William Irwin MLA described it as a “concerning” incident.

He added: “This is the second incident at the SPAR in Tandragee with a robbery incident last December leaving staff shocked and shaken.

“Tandragee does not need this type of criminality and I thank both the police and the public for their vigilance in this regard.”

DUP Alderman Gareth Wilson added: “I thank the PSNI for their swift work and also the public for their vigilance. It is unacceptable that valued local retail services are targeted in this way and hopefully those behind this criminality will face the courts.”

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The Tandragee Road in Poyntzpass has been closed in both directions after a serious road traffic collision.

Several ambulances are at the scene outside Scarva close to Acton crossroads.

Police are closing the road and turning traffic away, according to eye-witnesses on the scene.

Fire crews are also in attendance.

The eye-witness told Armagh I: “There are loads of sirens and fire crews and ambulances attending the scene. Going by the response alone, this is pretty serious.”

It is not known how many vehicles are involved.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police are currently attending a serious three vehicle road traffic collision at the Tandragee Road, Pontzpass this evening.

“The road is closed in both directions and motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative main routes for their journey.”

There are no further details at present, however, this story will be updated as and when more information becomes available.

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A male pedestrian has sadly died following a road traffic collision in Pontzpass on Sunday evening.

The incident happened on the on Poyntzpass Road shortly after 6pm.

Inspector Johnstone said: “The three-vehicle collision occurred at around 6:10pm and involved a silver Mitsibushi Shogun, a red Vauxhall Astra and black Volkswagen Tiguan.

“Police, along with NIAS, attended the scene. Sadly, a male pedestrian died at the scene.

“I want to appeal to anyone travelling on the Poyntzpass Road prior to, or around the time of the collision, and who saw what occurred, or who captured it on their dash cam to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1409 of 22/12/19.

“Poyntzpass Road remains closed in both directions this morning as we continue with our enquiries. Drivers are advised to seek alternative route, if possible.”

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The funeral of a man killed in a collision in Poyntzpass on Sunday will take place in Moy this afternoon (Friday).

The pedestrian died following a three-vehicle collision on the Tandragee Road around 6.10pm. The vehicles involved were a silver Mitsibushi Shogun, a red Vauxhall Astra and black Volkswagen Tiguan.

The victim has been named locally as Joseph Daly.

A friend of Mr Daly took to social media to described him as “a special wee man, kind, generous, very hard working funny and very highly thought of by me and my family, we will miss him dearly.”

Another said: “I was lucky enough to live with Joe over here in Australia. He made me laugh. You will be missed mate”.

Requiem Mass will take place today at St John’s Church, Moy at noon with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

He was the beloved son of Yvonne and Joseph and dearly loved brother of Cathal, Joanne and Katherine.

Elsewhere, the woman killed in a two-vehicle collision on the M1 on Monday has been named as Mona Maye.

Ms Maye, a mother-of-three in her 60s, was from Dungannon.

She was mum to Melanie, Emma and Grace, and sister of the late Noreen Conway.

Her daughter Grace, writing on Facebook, said: “No words. Our world is shattered. R.I.P mummy.”

Ms Maye’s funeral took place in the Church of St. Patrick in Dungannon this morning.

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It hardly seems like another full 12 months have passed us by but here we are again, just hours away from a new year and a new decade.

Throughout that time we have tried to keep you informed and entertained. We have shed many tears and shared many laughs and provided a platform for debate on topical and often contentious issues.

Now as we look ahead, we first look back on just some of the thousands of headlines which we have brought you throughout 2019…

January

In January, you were captivated by the news that a Co Armagh couple had won the New Years Day EuroMillions jackpot.

There was much talk about whether the winners would make themselves known but eventually it was revealed that Frances and Patrick Connolly, from Moira, matched the winning numbers on the first big draw of 2019.

Frances and Patrick Connolly celebrate becoming the fourth biggest National Lottery winners ever

They took home a whopping £115 million, making it the fourth biggest UK EuroMillions win ever.

We also brought you news of a man from Tandragee growing the world’s most expensive vegetable.

The Japanese wasabi – a sushi accompaniment – grows naturally along stream beds in mountain river valleys in Shizuoka, in West Japan, and is worth a cool £1.3m an acre.

But, rather surprisingly, a local man has gone through the painstaking cultivation process, and carefully nurtured the plant in a greenhouse in his garden!

There was the story too of an Armagh man who took a leap of faith from 10,000 feet on his 33rd birthday to raise money for charity.

Conor Crilly prepared himself for the adrenaline-filled skydive after he himself had suffered with addictions problems and had tried to take his own life.

Conor Crilly

The inspirational Conor went on to raise almost £3,000 for the Mental Health Foundation.

February

February marked the end of an era as Armagh I revealed a new owner was to take over JD Hunter supermarket, which had been trading for 99 years.

This came after confirmation that the owner, Richard Hunter, was to retire.

The supermarket had been in the Hunter family in Markethill since 1920.

One of the most shocking social media scares of the year came to a head when police issued a warning to parents about an online game which reportedly asked kids to self-harm.

Momo is a character in an online game and when downloaded, tells children to self-harm in what police in Northern Ireland described as a “suicide game targeting our kids”.

We also brought the news of a Keady man, who was sexually abused as a child, who urged other young people not to suffer in silence after he watched his abuser admit his crimes in court.

Edward Dynes waived his right to anonymity and bravely spoke out as he hoped, by doing so, it might give others the strength and courage to do likewise.

March

March saw the controversial scheduling of the St Patrick’s Day parade – organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council – come to the fore. The council-led city spectacle was planned for Saturday, March 16, as unionist councillors objected to it being held on a Sunday, the actual date of St Patrick’s Day.

St Patrick’s Day Armagh

It led, however, to a second community parade being pulled together at short notice and held on the Sunday, organised by the West Armagh Community Consortium.

The consortium worked in conjunction with a wide range of civic, business and community interests, to ensure that the Saint’s feast day was “suitably and properly celebrated in traditional style in Ireland’s ancient ecclesiastical capital and home to St Patrick himself”.

March also brought the heartbreaking news of the deaths of three young people before a St Patrick’s Day disco at the Greenvale Hotel.

Lauren Bullock (17), Morgan Barnard (17) and 16-year-old Connor Currie, died outside the Cookstown hotel.

April

April saw the closure of the popular Armagh restaurant 4 Vicars. tucked away in the heart of the city it announced it would be closing its doors with immediate effect after five years.

A true loss to the community, husband and wife team, Gareth and Kasia Reid, explained in a Facebook post that the decision was taken after a hike in the rental price for the premises.

That month also signified our second EuroMillions winners, when an 18-strong work syndicate from Newry-based demolition company Tinnelly Group Ltd struck it lucky with a quarter of a million pound pay day.

The County Down employees scooped a massive £253,489.30 after matching the five main numbers and one Lucky Star number, with each member of the syndicate pocketing more than £14,000 each.

May

In May, much talk surrounded the council elections. There were some nervy moments during the count which returned many of the same representatives but with a few new faces thrown into the mix.

ABC council welcomed three Alliance councillors into the fold, with the DUP and UUP losing seats.

In all the excitement and commotion of the election count, Upper Bann MLA Carla Lockhart (now former MLA that is!) was present to support her DUP colleagues when she went into labour!

Armagh I also brought you the news of a Co Armagh family who were left in shock after police smashed down their front door and raided their home in an apparent case of mistaken identity.

The Carr family from Granemore, just a few few miles outside Keady, had their home subjected to a forensic search in what had been described as “continued harassment” by the PSNI.

Carr home Granemore police raid

Shortly after 11am, police broke down several doors to the home on the Armaghbreague Road, before rummaging through the house in what appeared to have been one in a series of co-ordinated raids across south Armagh.

June

In June, Markethill victims’ campaigner William Frazer passed away after battling with a number of illnesses which had led to him being in intensive care.

Mr Frazer – who would have turned 59 the next month- had been battling illnesses for a number of years and was reported to have suffered organ failure.

June also brought news of the disappearance of Dolores Hughes, who was last seen in the Charlemont area. A large-scale search for the missing 62-year-old began on June 6 and centred around the River Blackwater in the Moy area, just a few miles from her home.

Tragically, one month later, on July 6, police confirmed her body had been discovered in Lough Neagh.

July

In July you were horrified as a Lurgan man admitted to killing a defenceless 12-week-old puppy in a sickening hammer attack in February 2018.

Kyle Keegan was handed a 30-month sentence and a 30-year ban on owning animals, after an eleventh hour plea in which he admitted causing unnecessary suffering to the crossbreed pup, called Sparky.

July also delivered news of job losses in the county as Linwoods announced its intentions to close its bakery.

John Woods, joint managing direct, said that the decision had “not been taken lightly” as 70 full-time employees were left facing the loss of their jobs.

In other news, Craigavon Area Hospital introduced a new fast track system, the aim of which was to allow patients having a hip replacement to walk as soon as possible after surgery.

August

In August, a community rallied behind a Co Armagh family after a fire devastated their home.

The blaze destroyed the property in Lurgan, but fortunately, the family – including seven children – were safe and well.

However, friends took took to social media in a desperate attempt to have people donate items to the family, especially the children.

Elsewhere in August and a young mum and her 10-month old baby had a miraculous escape after her car crashed and overturned near Banbridge.

Holly Clements took to social media to thank the “saints” who came to her aid after the single-vehicle collision between Castlewellan and Banbridge.

She also issued a warning to other parents to make sure children are well strapped in – just like her own – as it does saves lives.

There was also the first release of the initial phase of a stunning multi-million pound Armagh housing development which went on the market in August.

Thirteen new homes in the highly-anticipated Deanery Demesne development – just off the Portadown Road – were up for grabs with initial interest well in excess of 230 people.

September

In September, the whole country was caught up in the unexpected demise of Thomas Cook, and we brought you news of one Co Armagh travel agent’s “lovely gesture”.

Travel giant Thomas Cook went into administration putting 22,000 jobs at risk worldwide, including 9,000 in the UK.

Clubworld Travel in Lurgan responded to the devastating news by offering affected staff a number of vacancies at their stores across Northern Ireland.

School returned in September, and there were tears of joy, tinged with sadness, as parents dropped off their little ones for the first day of class.

But at St Brendan’s Primary, Moyraverty, the staff gave parents a special little something to help – as they kissed, cuddled and waved off their little cherubs on their first day, parents were handed a sealed paper bag.

On the outside it read: “Dear Parent, here’s a little gift from us to you! So when you get home today, take this tea bag and brew yourself a warm cup of tea. Sit down and enjoy a biscuit, and wipe away your tears.

“Then smile about this huge step your child has successfully taken today. You will be fine and most importantly your child is in very safe and loving hands. From all at St Brendan’s Nursery.”

The little bag contained a teabag, a chocolate bar and a little poem from the teacher.

October

In October, the whole world was captivated by one story as a lorry, containing 39 bodies, was discovered in Essex.

Maurice Robinson, of Laurel Drive in Laurelvale, was arrested shortly after the discovery was made at the Waterglade Retail Park.

The 25-year-old was later charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic people, conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and money laundering.

Armagh I also brought you news from the inquest of a young Armagh man who tragically passed away following a routine ear operation.

Jennifer McAneney lost her 21-year-old son Peter in 2012, and at the time criticised the Southern Trust for “failing my son”, after his death just weeks following the procedure at Craigavon Area Hospital.

November

In November, we brought you the story of an Armagh man who is principal of one of the best schools on the continent.

Gerry Rafferty, who grew up in the Shambles area of Armagh, has spent the best part of three decades delivering top results at the highest scoring international school in Europe.

You also read about the Co Armagh family-of-nine, who were being told by the Housing Executive there was no available accommodation for them, which left them open to being  homeless at Christmas.

The Portadown family, including seven children under the age of 14, were informed by their landlord that he wished to take the privately rented property back.

Due to the length of time the family resided at the placed they called home – nearly six years – they were afforded eight weeks to make alternative arrangements, but that was harder than they could have ever imagined.

After contacting the Housing Executive they were told they would require a five bedroom property, however, there were none available, and unlikely to be anytime soon.

The options given to the family included: being registered homeless, splitting up the family, privately renting, or living in a family hostel in Belfast.

Before the month was out and there were shockwaves throughout the Keady community and beyond after the death of an 11-month-old baby Hunter McGleenan.

After a post mortem was held, Sharyar Ali, a man with an address in Co Monaghan, was charged with his murder.

There was to be double heartache too for baby Hunter’s family as his great grandmother passed away peacefully just 24 hours after his death.

December

In December it was announced that an old favourite family holiday spot for many was to be given a new lease of life.

Táin Holiday Village has been closed for the past 12 years, and the dilapidation and overgrowth has given the large site on the banks of Carlingford Lough an apocalyptic feel to it.

But 25 years after first opening as a holiday centre, which was popular for guests on both sides of the border, the green light was given to demolish the four existing structures and the partial demolition of another, to make way for a three-storey nursing home.

There were further transformations on the horizon with proposals for a new £4 million investment in the High Street Mall in Portadown.

These were reported to include the introduction of a new ‘plaza’ aimed at helping to reverse its flagging fortunes, with Lidl taking over the former Dunnes unit as anchor tenant.

December also brought celebrations for one Co Armagh woman who won an award on a prime time television show with her display of her crafting talent

Andrea Egan had the competition sewn up when she simply dazzled judges on Channel Four’s ‘Kirstie Allsops’s Handmade Christmas’.

The Tullysaran woman caught up with Armagh I after she took this year’s Stitchcraft trophy on the show, with her amazing Carrickmacross Lace, described by one incredulous judge as “witchcraft”.

Now as December draws to a close and we count down to the all-important bells to ring in another new year, we look forward to bringing you all the news you need to know!

Goodbye 2019, hello 2020!

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Two women and one man were rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a two-vehicle collision outside Newry last night (Wednesday).

Police investigating the head on collision on New Year’s Day are appealing for witnesses.

The incident happened on the Tandragee Road at around 6.40pm.

The females, both thought to be in their 20s, were the driver and passenger in a white Renault Clio while the male, who is in his 50s, was the driver of a blue coloured BMW.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who was travelling on the Tandragee Road at around 6.40pm or anyone who may have witnessed the collision. Please call 101, quoting reference 1946 01/01/20.

The road remains closed this morning as a result.

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A teenager who stole another male’s scrambler has been told that he has just one month to cough up the £1,750 it was worth.

Court heard the 18-year-old stole the motorbike from an address in Tandragee and it was never recovered.

Nadeem Hossain, of Oliver Plunkett Park in Dundalk, pleaded guilty to using a vehicle without insurance, no driving licence and theft of a vehicle at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

As the charges were read, it was heard that on December 11, 2018, the defendant stole the scrambler motorcycle worth £1,750 from Coronation Street, Tandragee.

Defence solicitor Kevin O’Hare stated: “This was not recovered. There is an issue with restitution and I have spoken to Mr Hossain.

“I ask that he is given time to put his head together to get this money.”

District Judge Paul Copeland said: “He has one month in which to do that.”

The case was adjourned until February 4 for sentencing and restitution.

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A Tandragee man who stole two turkeys, valued at £40, from Iceland in December must wait until next month to learn his fate.

Court heard that the 49-year-old had a substantial record which included 78 previous offences.

Philip Thomas Magowan, of Old Scarva Road, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

As the charges were read, it was heard that the first offence occurred on November 30 in which the defendant stole £50 worth of goods from Tesco in Portadown.

The second theft related to two turkeys, to the value of £40, which Magowan stole from Iceland on December 15.

Defence solicitor Richard Montieth stated: “In view of the pleas, your worship may wish to see his record which is substantial.”

District Judge Gregg McCourt commented: “He has a long enough record, 78 offences. It may be a case where a pre-sentence report is required.”

The case was adjourned until February 5 for sentencing.

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A house in Tandragee was burgled last night with a number of identifiable items taken.

Police are appealing for information following the burglary in the Knockview Drive area of the town – the second in this particular area in the space of three and a half months.

It is understood to have occurred between 5.25pm and 7.30pm on Thursday, January 9.

During the Burglary a number of identifiable items were stolen including a Buckley Broach which was a unique style of poppy, Royal British Legion medals, silver coins and pens which were all boxed and issued by Craigavon Borough Council.

Lurgan CID are appealing for anyone with information in relation to this incident or who may have seen anything suspicious in the area to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1619 of 09/01/20.

DUP councillor Alderman Gareth Wilson said: “This is another unfortunate criminal incident in Knockview Drive which follows the break-in at Spar in December and a similar incident in Knockview Drive last October.

“I am thinking at this time of the home owners who have returned to their property to find it ransacked and no doubt valuables stolen, this is a gross invasion of someone’s home and it is reprehensible.”

He stated: “Forensic examinations of the property have taken place and I understand Police are actively investigating this crime and I also understand that there was no one in the house at the time which follows a pattern of thieves being opportunistic in their targets.

“I urge anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in Thursday evening between 5pm and 7pm to contact the PSNI and pass on any snippet of information which may assist in tracking down those behind this criminality.”

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A man has collapsed and died at a Co. Armagh recreation centre this evening (Wednesday).

Emergency services were called to the incident at Tandragee Recreation Centre around 6pm.

It is understood the man was a customer to the centre when he took unwell.

Attempts were made to revive the man, however, he tragically passed away at the scene.

Emergency services were called and the centre has been closed to the public as a result.

The PSNI are currently at the scene.

There are no further details at this time.

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A Co. Armagh recreation centre is set to remain closed throughout the day following the sudden death of a man on Wednesday evening.

The man – who was a customer and regular user of the council-owned Tandragee facility – collapsed and passed away around 6pm.

A statement from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council confirmed today’s closure and that more information will follow in due course.

Sympathies have been paid to the deceased, who is understood to have been local to the area.

DUP councillor Alderman Gareth Wilson said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the gentleman’s family at this very difficult time and it is such sad news to learn that a member of the public has sadly passed away suddenly in the centre.

“My thoughts are also with the recreation centre staff as they deal with this very sad situation.”

Independent councillor Paul Berry and Ulster Unionist Jim Speers also offered their sympathies to the man’s family and friends at this tragic time, describing it as “devastating” for the whole community.

Staff, who rushed to the man’s aid will be offered counselling following the traumatic experience.

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The funeral of a Tandragee man who collapsed and died at a Co. Armagh recreation centre last week is to take place on Wednesday.

David Lyness, who lived at 69 Richmond Drive, passed away on Thursday January 15 and will be laid to rest this week.

Mr Lyness, who was a customer and regular user of the council-owned Tandragee facility, collapsed and passed away around 6pm.

A funeral notice for Mr Lyness said he was the the dearly loved husband of Charlene, loving father of Simon, Dean, Jason and Shannon, dear father-in-law of Kelly and devoted grandfather of Harry and Romilly.

His funeral service will be held  at 1pm on Ballymore Parish Church on Wednesday January 22 and will be followed by private cremation.

Independent Unionist councillor Paul Berry, speaking to Armagh I, offered his sympathies to Mr Lyness’s family.

He said: “As councillors we just got a standard email through saying there has been an incident the recreation centre and a customer has collapsed and subsequently passed away.

“You do think to yourself, would I know them but as time went on I found it was David and I knew him, and Charlene and the wider family.

“It is just a tragedy and the local community are obviously shocked by it, especially the recreation staff, because it is a smaller town and they get to know their customers and clients well.”

Councillor Berry added: “Whilst our thoughts and prayers are Charlene and the family, I would also like people to think of the staff who have been affected by it as well.

“David was a regular; speaking to family he would have been at the centre most evenings. David was very fit and healthy, he could have been cycling the area around too.

“It has had a big impact on the town locally and the tragedy of it has been felt, for sure.”

The family have asked that no flowers be purchased and instead for money to be donated to Cancer Research.

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A Tandragee man who assaulted police who came to his aid whilst on bail for assaulting an ex-partner, who has since passed away, has been told to stop the “downward spiral”.

The 28-year-old’s barrister told court the defendant now realised his “relationship with alcohol is entirely poisonous”.

Leuris Purvins, of Cabragh Road, pleaded guilty to possession of Class B, criminal damage, two counts of common assault, threats to kill, three counts of assault on police, disorderly behaviour, resisting police and possession of Class C at Newry Magistrates’.

Purvins was appearing via videolink from Maghaberry.

These offences were accrued by the defendant over three separate incidents, the court heard.

Prosecution outlined that on March 22, police searched a property on Austin Drive in Tandragee, upon arrival Purvins claimed ownership of the home.

During the search, officers located to bags which contained white powder, which was identified as mix of methylmethcathinone and ephylone, class B drugs, weighing approximately 11.61g.

The next incident occurred on August 23, at 1.45pm police received a 999 call from the injured party, who seemed to be intoxicated.

The female claimed there was a man in her house who was threatening to kill her, a male voice was heard in the background saying: “I will cut your throat”.

Police spoke to the injured party who said the defendant, her partner, had damaged her living room door and officers observed a hole in the door.

The woman also alleged that Purvins had also punched her on the previous day.

Officers arrested the defendant, during interview he admitted to making the threats to kill, damaging the door and assaulting the injured party but denied doing so the previous day.

Then on November 25, at 8.40pm, police responded to a report of a male lying on the ground on Banbrook Hill, Armagh.

As officers came to his aid, Purvins struck one of them on the chest and as police tried to restrain the defendant he kicked the same officer.

After limb restraints were applied, police attempted to place the defendant in a cell van where he kicked the leg of another officer.

Whilst in custody, during a search of Purvins police located 10 pregablin capsules on his person.

When interviewed, the defendant admitted to the drugs belonging and stated he did not have a prescription.

Defence barrister Scott McWhinney stated: “Mr Purvins has spent three months real time in custody, when not in custody he is working and the injured party in the assault case is sadly deceased since.

“We were given the papers, took the case two week for instructions and during the interim she passed away”.

He continued: “With regards the Class B, this was a small amount and this is not something Mr Purvins has a record for in this jurisdiction.

“With the assault on police, as in many cases alcohol took hold he is ow trying to deal with that and realises his relationship with alcohol is entirely poisonous”.

Mr McWhinney added: “I ask your worship to stay your had and not have any further impact on his liberty”.

District Judge Eamonn King stated: “What is concerning me is that one of these offences, the one involving his deceased ex-partner in August 2019, he was granted bail and subsequently in November assaulted police.

“However, I do note that he came to this jurisdiction in 2012 and has had a good work record and has not been before the court before, this can be seen as a downward spiral which hopefully he can stop”.

Purvins was sentenced to five months in prison suspended for two years and was ordered to pay a fine of £300, along with the offender’s levy of £15.

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Christmas really is the season of giving and there’s no doubt about that as a charity Christmas lights fundraiser has enjoyed its best ever year!

Tim’s Lights – in Tandragee – is an incredible spectacle and voluntary donations this year from an appreciative public saw a fantastic £3,740.19p being raised.

Each year, Tim Hancock and dad Mark add more illuminations to the display in order to share the real meaning of the Christmas season, the birth of Jesus, while putting a smile on everyone’s faces and raising money for a well-known charity, which is very close to their hearts.

The money will be presented to Marie Curie Northern Ireland, through the Craigavon Fundraising Group, in the coming days.

The brilliant boost – which Tim chose to reveal this week on World Cancer Day – will be enough to provide 728 hours of funded care!

That’s the equivalent of a whole month of care paid for for a terminally ill family member or friend!

The 2019 takings now brings the total raised by the Hancocks since they began their charity light-up in 2014 to a stagging £14,562.

Needless to say Tim is truly delighted to be in a position to be able to donate such a huge sum to this worthwhile cause.

He told Armagh I : “It feels absolutely incredible to have helped the charity in such a fantastic way and to have had so many encounters to chat about the real meaning of the season.”

The Hancocks cannot thank everyone enough for their generosity and all those who helped and supported them in any way, including family, neighbours and local businesses, the PSNI, ABC Council and local media, among others.

So what of 2020? Are we ready to go again? And will there be any changes or surprises in store? We posed the all important questions…

“Will we be back next year? Absoluely!! Bring it on!

“Will there be new additions? Yes,” teased Tim. “Our pixel section and music sequences are getting a massive upgrade all being well!”

We’re sure it’ll be another wonderful show to support the work of Marie Curie when Christmas rolls round once again!

As they say, keep ‘er lit, Tim, keep ‘er lit!

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A Tandragee man who was spotted by police with two stolen frozen turkeys has been handed an 18-month probation order.

The 49-year-old’s solicitor told court: “The good thing is, if you look at his record his last theft was back in 1993.”

Philip Thomas Magowan, of Old Scarva Road, appeared for sentencing on to two counts of theft at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

These related to two separate incidents which occurred late last year.

Prosecution outlined that on November 30, at 3.50pm, police were called to a report of the theft of razor blades to the value of £50 from Tesco in Portadown.

Staff had observed a male enter the store and act suspiciously in the aisle near the razor blades.

As he left the store, security noted a bulge in his jacket. Two packets of blades valued at £25 each were concealed inside with the tags having been removed.

Magowan was subsequently arrested and conveyed to Lurgan Custody Suite.

During interview, the defendant claimed to have no recollection prior to being in the police car on his way into custody.

Then on December 15, at 3.30pm, police had reason to speak to Magowan and another male who were walking through the People’s Park in Portadown, each holding a frozen turkey.

The defendant claimed they had been purchased from a nearby Iceland store but was unable to produce a receipt.

Checks with the store revealed that at 1.10pm, the males had taken the two turkeys without paying and that they were valued at £40.

Police attended Magowan’s home address and arrested him before conveying him to Lurgan Custody Suite.

When interviewed, the defendant made full admissions to the offence.

Defence solicitor Richard Montieth commented: “The good thing is, if you look at his record his last theft was back in 1993.”

Taking into account the recommendations from probation, Ditsrict Judge Amanda Brady sentenced Magowan to 18 months probation, with the additional requirement to engage in any works requested.

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A man who went into a “downward spiral” after the loss of a close friend and breakdown of a relationship has been sentenced to community service.

Court heard that the 39-year-old had two suspended sentences for assault but since the commission of this latest offence had been sentenced to five months in prison.

Gary George Nesbitt, of Flush Place in Lisburn, appeared for sentencing on possession of Class A at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Prosecution outlined that on March 21, at 4pm, police on Madden Road, Tandragee, stopped a BMW in which the defendant was a rear seat passenger.

After observing evidence of drug use inside the car, the officers elected to conduct a search of the occupants.

During this, a small bag of white powder was located in Nesbitt’s right trouser pocket and he was subsequently arrested and cautioned making no reply.

Analysis of the substance found that it was a mixture of cocaine and another unidentified powder.

When interviewed, the defendant made no comment to all questions  put to him by police.

Defence solicitor Philip Reid stated: “The most concerning aspect of this was that it was committed in breach of two suspended sentences, both of these were for assaults.

“However, he was subsequently handed a five month sentence, which he has served, at Downpatrick Court.”

He continued: “This is a man who had a troubled youth. There was a gap in offending, between 2011 to 2016, he was engaged, he had found work but this relationship breaks down and he moved to Glasgow for a fresh start.

“But at this time a close friend of his died and he returned to the Portadown area. This started a downward spiral, he fell into the wrong crowd and this led to his offending. He has since removed himself from the area.”

District Judge Alan White commented: “Since he has since spent a considerable amount of time in custody for this offence I am considering a combination order.”

Nesbitt was sentenced to a enhanced combination order consisting of 12 months probation and 80 hours community service.

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A man who “foolishly” offered his friend a lift home was caught driving in Tandragee twice the legal limit by police.

The 27-year-old’s solicitor told court his client, who is a van driver by occupation, had been demoted to a store manager as a result of this offence.

Andrew John Boyce, of Primrose Hill, Gilford pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Prosecution outlined that on February 2, at 2.20am, police conducting a vehicle checkpoint on the Madden Road, Tandragee, stopped the defendant driving a Honda.

After noting that his eyes were glazed and he smelled of alcohol, officers opted to conduct a preliminary breath test which resulted in a fail.

Boyce was subsequently arrested and conveyed to Dungannon Custody Suite. Whilst there an evidential sample of the defendant’s breath was obtained giving a reading of 70 mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath.

Defence solicitor Richard Monteith stated: “This was a routine checkpoint. He co-operated fully with police and was brought to Dungannon as the closer stations were closed.

“This was a plea at the first opportunity. His occupation is a van driver and he has been demoted to a store manager as a consequence of this.”

He added: “Foolishly, after drinking with a friend, he offered him a lift home from his own home.”

Boyce was disqualified from driving for 12 months and was ordered to pay a fine of £300, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 10 weeks.

The defendant was certified for the drink driving course which would see his ban reduced to one of nine months upon completion.

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What initiative and what enthusiasm!

The young children of Tandragee Beaver Scouts have taken steps to ensure their local park is kept clean of dog mess.

The children have created ‘poo bag’ dispensers and installed them in the park.

It means there is no excuse now for owners not to clean up after their pets.

The bag dispenser, made from a simple plastic bottle, has a label with instructions.

It reads: “Be prepared to scoop the poop.

“If you have forgotten a poo bag please take one. Help us to keep our park clean and safe for children like us to play in.”

The children have also provided a box of tennis ball which they have made available: “In Loving Memory of the Pets We Have Loved and Lost.”

The tennis balls bear the names of pets which the young children have had which have sadly died.

They are provided so other dogs can play with them.

Again the simple instructions read: “Please help yourself to a tennis ball for your dog to play with. Play with it and drop it back for other dogs to enjoy.

“Love this time with your pets and enjoy the unconditional love they give each and every day you have together.

“Made with love by the children of 1t Tandragee Beavers.”

Local DUP Alderman Gareth Wilson praised the young people and their leaders for their “amazing work” which he said was “all the kids’ very own initiative”.

He added: “It is absolutely brilliant and it goes to show just how much enthusiasm and love the 1st Tandragee Beaver Scouts have for the area.

“We can all learn from this and I will be commending these guys at council at the next opportunity.”

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Tandragee Rovers Football Club are the latest Co. Armagh sports team to announce a player has tested positive for coronavirus.

In a statement released on social media, a club spokesperson said: “This afternoon we learned that a senior player of Tandragee Rovers Football Club has tested positive for Corvid-19.

“We commend the actions of our player for self-isolating and getting tested as soon as he became aware that he had been in contact with a person who had also tested positive over the weekend.‬

“‪We have been in contact with the Public Health Authority and have advised our players accordingly. The clubhouse is also closed with immediate effect until it has undergone a deep clean.‬

“‪We also contacted the Mid Ulster Football League immediately to pass on as much information as possible for them to inform Saturdays opponents.‬

‪”As a precautionary measure we have made the decision to cancel all senior and youth training until week commencing Monday 23rd March and have got agreement from the relevant footballing authorities to suspend all of our senior and youth teams from all games for the next two weekends.‬

‪If anyone has any concerns they should contact the Public Health Authority on 111 or visit http://www.publichealth.hscni.net

Meanwhile, in Belfast, the City Council has cancelled its annual St Patrick’s Day parade following the cancellation of Dublin’s parade.

Councillors raised the issue at a meeting of the council on Monday night.

Lord Mayor Daniel Baker said: “Our St Patrick’s Day celebrations are always hugely anticipated so it’s very disappointing that this year’s event won’t go ahead as planned.

“The decision has been taken as a precaution given Members’ and the public’s concern around coronavirus.”

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