Cllr McKinty: Look after Larne

Cllr Mark McKinty, Deputy Mayor or Larne, is urging all residents to "look after Larne" this summer. "We have a beautiful Borough with much to offer visitors, so it is imperative that we all take pride in it and ensure Larne is well-presented and clean of litter" he said.

Speaking following the launch of the Translink 2012 Ulster in Bloom competition, the Ulster Unionist representative said, "This is a great opportunity for Council's Parks Department to work together with local businesses and community groups to spruce up the Borough. We must congratulate Parks staff and community volunteers for the work that they already do in presenting our Town so well."

In the 2011 competition, judges described Larne as "a well-kept town with a great sense of public pride", awarding it the Most Improved award, with Larne Methodist Church also receiving a Special Award for outstanding presentation.

Cllr McKinty highliged the potential to build on last year's progress: "This year is especially important for Larne with the Jubilee roundabout and other works having been completed and now forming part of the competition entry. I would encourage everyone to do their part in their own garden, business and community area to improve the appearance of our Borough for judges and tourists alike. The wider public also must remember to dispose of their litter carefully as judges pay close attention to detail, and every point counts in the final."

"Tourism is very important for our Borough, and presenting Larne as a tidy, enjoyable place to visit will encourage visitors to stay longer and return often. Right across Larne, from Millbrook to Glenarm, I wish all entries well, and am very hopeful we will have a successful summer showcasing our beautiful Borough", he concluded.

ENDS


Left: Cllr. McKinty at a recent tree planting event in Jubilee Park, Glynn.

Top: Geraldine McGahey, Chief Executive, Larne Borough Council, Cllr Mark McKinty, Deputy Mayor, Larne Borough Council, Cllr Freda Donnelly, Northern Ireland Local Government Association, Frank Moore, Route Manager, Translink NI Railways, Catherine Mason, Group Chief Executive, Translink, Jim King, Larne Borough Council and Alistair McKeown, board member, Northern Ireland Tourist Board.