Larne - Neighbourhood Retailer

Businessman Tom Topping dies after suspected farm accident

Linda Stewart — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 09:12:34 +0000

Larne businessman Tom Topping has died after a suspected farm accident in Co Antrim.

The owner of Topping Meats, a big supplier in Co Antrim, and previous owner of the Highways Hotel in Larne died on Monday.

Mr Topping, who was aged in his 70s, passed away following an incident involving a vehicle, according to locals. The Health and Safety Executive is investigating.

East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson, a neighbour of Mr Topping, described him as a “gentleman.”

“Tom was a well-known businessman in the area, employing hundreds of people over the years. He probably dealt with every farmer in the area,” he said.

“I am gobsmacked at his death as I only saw him last night.

“He had such a close family with his two sons and daughter, who are devastated. I believe all his family worked with him, so he wasn’t just their dad, he was their business partner. They are such a close-knit family.”

Mr Wilson said Mr Topping was well-known across the community.

He added: “Tom was involved in so much across the Larne area, from sports to business clubs – there wouldn’t have been an event you would have gone to without seeing him.

“He was associated with so many organisations. It’s a terrible tragedy.”

Local councillors have also paid tribute.

DUP councillor Paul Reid said his “thoughts and prayers were with the family” and fellow DUP councillor Greg McKeen also shared his condolences.

“Tom was well known in the farming and local business community – my thoughts go out to his family,” he added.

Alliance councillor Robert Logan said: “It’s very sad for his family and a terrible shock to them with his happening so suddenly – my thoughts are with them all at this time.”

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police (attended) the scene of the sudden death of a man in his 70s in the Rectory Road area of Larne. The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time.

“Police have advised the Health and Safety Executive, and will provide assistance with their investigation.”

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive added: “HSENI has received a report of an incident on a farm and enquiries are underway to establish the circumstances surrounding it.”

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Traders in Larne raise concerns over pedestrianisation plans

Linda Stewart — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:35:10 +0000

Public realm proposals for Larne town centre have sparked concerns among traders over access for customers and deliveries.

The issue of access was highlighted in the minutes of a recent report to Mid and East Antrim councillors that had been discussed behind closed doors at a meeting of the Borough Growth Committee, the Belfast News Letter reported.

Councillors have asked officers to re-engage with traders in an attempt to find a solution in a bid to utilise Stormont funding and allow the public realm scheme at Dunluce Street to proceed.

Pedestrianisation would mean the removal of six car parking spaces. It is understood that Dunluce Street had been pedestrianised previously but this had been revoked in 2010.

Several councillors have expressed concern that the street is in a “state of dereliction and very much in need of upgrade to realise its potential”. The report notes that Dunluce Street is also a residential street.

However, no formal objections were received by the local authority during a public consultation at the end of August.

Council minutes have indicated that the street may be opened to allow for delivery vehicles between 8am and 6pm and the installation of bollards could be an option.

It is also proposed to extend the public footpath at Bridge Street, connecting onto Dunluce Street, by removing a further two on-street parking bays.

The council has indicated that the proposed works will be phased, with improvements planned for Dunluce Street first with pedestrianisation at Lower Cross Street in a second phase subject to funding. Access for business deliveries is also expected to be maintained.

Ten per cent of the cost of the improvement works would be paid by the borough council.

Public realm

A previous £2.2m public realm improvement works featuring granite pavements, lighting and seating in other parts of the town centre streets in 2015 did not extend to Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street.

Commenting on proposals, Larne Lough Councillor Gregg McKeen, Chair of the Borough Growth Committee, said: “I am pleased to see there is the opportunity to do this other works in the town centre. Businesses have been very keen and positive and want to go ahead but some have reservations and concerns.”

He added that council has the opportunity to work to get a solution that suits traders and businesses in the area.

Mid and East Antrim Mayor Councillor William McCaughey said previously: “The existing two car parking spaces on Bridge Street are not regularly used as there is sufficient parking along Point Street that runs parallel to Dunluce Street.

“In addition, with a proposed new hotel development planned for this area in the near future, council believes that this is an opportune time to focus on upgrading Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street to support the overall regeneration of Larne town centre.

“It is hoped that the regeneration works will act as a catalyst for further private and public sector investment in the area.”

Caption: The proposed public realm works in Larne

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Christmas artisan markets create good cheer in Mid and East Antrim

Linda Stewart — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 09:33:56 +0000

Artisan markets showcasing the finest fare from Mid and East Antrim will be adding some sparkle to town centres this festive season.

Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne will be filled with local seasonal food, crafts and gifts so there will be no shortage of inspiration this Christmas.

Some of the traders setting up stall will include Salty Herb, The Natural Root, Castle Crafts, Plumpy Balms and Country Candles. All traders are taking card payments, so it’s a great way to spend your local high street voucher.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr William McCaughey said: “Share the festive season with our amazing local traders by celebrating and supporting local this Christmas. These markets are not only perfect for a family day out, but also to get a present that’s a bit different as well.

“It’s been tough, particularly on small businesses the past year, with events like this cancelled across the country, so what better way to get behind our local traders and help give them a boost this winter.

“This year we have fantastic entertainment in all the town centres, from the lights switch on, to live music and parades. Cafes and restaurants are gearing up to welcome you back safely this season and make it a Christmas to remember.”

Ballymena

Ballymena’s Artisan Market and seasonal live music performances, in association with Ballymena BID, will take place on Greenvale Street on:

Thursday 9th December – Sunday 12th December

Thursday 16th December – Sunday 19th December

(Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays: 10am – 6pm / Sundays: 1pm – 6pm)

Santa and his reindeer will also be paying the market a visit on Thursday 9 December between 4.30pm and 6pm.

Larne

Larne’s Artisan Market at Broadway, featuring DJ Mark Dobbin will take place on:

Friday 26th November, 4pm – 8pm (Santa will arrive on his sleigh at 5pm)

Saturday 27th November, 11am – 5pm (walkabout characters and children’s entertainment)

Carrickfergus

Traders and music from Uplift Performing Arts will be at Market Place in Carrickfergus on:

Friday 3rd December, 4pm – 8pm (Santa will arrive on his sleigh at 5pm)

Saturday 4th December, 11am – 5pm (walkabout characters and children’s entertainment)

For more information on all of the festive events in #ASeasonToCelebrate head to www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/Christmas

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Brand new Centra at the Port of Larne – Second Store for the Lusty Family

Julie Nash — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 11:15:35 +0000

Local convenience store unveils impressive new look following £150,000 revamp

The Lusty family, already owners of a Centra located in the town centre, has opened the doors to their second store at Larne Port. The revamped Centra store, located on Redlands Road, is a welcome addition to the area supporting 15 jobs with plans to increase employment later in the year.

It’s the second big win for Larne in recent living history – as the town’ football team lifted its first senior silverware success in 33 years – with the County Antrim shield.

Covid-19 restrictions meant the big match took place in an empty stadium, the Larne faithful – both at home and away – made sure the football world knew they were delighted.

And the community has a second reason to celebrate – with the new Centra at the Port of Larne – which is really something special for both the town and its passing trade.

Following an extensive refurbishment, the store includes a large petrol forecourt, a hot and cold deli, a spacious seating area as well as Frank & Honest coffee, Ireland’s largest on-the-go gourmet coffee brand. With ample parking on site alongside an electric car charging port, all needs are catered for.

Official opening

Proud and excited

Owner Raymond Lusty said “We are both proud and excited to unveil our newly developed store and look forward to welcoming customers whether travelling through the port or visiting the amenities nearby. Our team has been working hard over the past few months to bring this store to fruition and now, our focus turns to ensuring our customers enjoy all that is on offer as well as our great customer service.

“In just five weeks we totally revamped the site and took it up to trend with the opening of our deli and refurbished layout.

Family business

“Although an addition to the family business, this is the first store I can call my own. It’s been a real team effort and I’d really like to say thank you to the new staff we’ve taken on, and to the family. We’re delighted to be supporting 15 new jobs in Larne.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to the whole team at our Centra in the town centre who also helped out n whatever way they could. It’s been a real team effort.

“All our contractors and suppliers have done an amazing job – I’m really grateful for all the support we’ve had to get this turned around so quickly.

“My mum and dad were supportive as always, and I’d just like to say a huge thank you to them and my wonderful wife Hannah” said Raymond.

Cosy sit-in area

The new Centra at the Port of Larne features a hot and cold food bar and deli, Frank & Honest coffee. We’ve also incorporated a cosy sit-in area for people to relax and enjoy their delicious hot or cold food before continuing on their journey.

“Larne is a busy port at the best of times, and some travel restrictions being eased, people are starting to venture out and about and take holidays and short breaks again” said Raymond.

“It was a real boost for the staff and customers when the shield came to the shop to celebrate our opening. We were delighted and it made everything seem even more special.

“I couldn’t have done it without the help of everyone, even though this is the first store I can call my own – my wife, family, staff, customers and the whole community have all been amazing.”

Pictured at the opening of Lusty’s Centra Larne Port are Musgrave Managing Director, Trevor Magill and store owner Raymond Lusty.

Vital link for the economy

The Port of Larne is also a vital link for the entire economy in Northern Ireland – so the new Lusty’s Centra at Larne Port is a welcome addition – not just serving the local community, but the people passing to and fro the Port on business or pleasure.

“With ample parking, a large petrol forecourt and an electric charging point – we feel that we’re able to give all our customers, both regular and passing trade, everything they need to fuel their journey – from a hot meal, a warm comforting coffee, a delicious healthy deli meal, an extensive range of cold drinks and selection of grocery and confectionery.

Trevor Magill, Managing Director for Musgrave Northern Ireland said “We are delighted to see this refurbishment completed, a welcome addition to the growing Centra portfolio, and wish Raymond and his team all the very best.”

Morning noon and night – delicious hot food

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Local National Autistic Society branch receives over £1,000 from Carrick retailer

Julie Nash — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 15:40:03 +0000

The Larne and Carrickfergus branch of the National Autistic Society has received a cheque for £1,608 from SPAR Fortfield.

Run entirely by local volunteers, the National Autistic Society will use the money to provide support services for local families – something SPAR Fortfield wanted to honour during Autism Awareness Month in April.

Holly Rogers, Team Leader at SPAR Fortfield commented; “The local branch of the National Autistic Society does so much to support people in our local community with autism, including providing a new hub to host a youth club and many other activities.

“We held a bucket collection in store, and at the end of April, myself and Courtney Clarke, a volunteer from the local branch walked an entire marathon to raise more funds and awareness for this fantastic charity. I’d like to thank all our shoppers for supporting the initiative throughout the month, we are so proud to be donating this money to a local charity that goes above and beyond for our community.”

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