World Sheep Dog Trials a huge tourism driver for local area

Carla Lockhart MP • July 18, 2023

Speaking ahead of the World Sheepdog Trials at Gill Hall Estate, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said the event will bring many benefits to the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council area in terms of tourism and visitor spend in the local area.

The DUP representative said:

“It is a huge endorsement of the Gill Hall team that the World Sheepdog Trials are taking place on the estate from 13th to 16th September. A great deal of work has gone into making this event possible, and attracting it to the Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon area. Credit must go to Mr John McCullough, a Birches resident for being such a positive driving force in getting this event to the beautiful surroundings of Gill Hall.

Thousands of visitors will come to the ABC Council area for this world championship, and the economic benefits of the event will be felt locally across many sectors, not least in terms of tourism and hospitality. Grandstand tickets are approaching a sell out and that in itself is an indicator of the appeal of this event.

Of course it is also a showcase event for the local area to attract other visitors in the future. It is vital that we capitalise on this opportunity, and I would encourage the Council to use the Trials as a springboard for the local tourism offering. We have a great deal to offer in this area for anyone visiting, and I know those attending the Sheepdog Trials will have a fantastic time at the event, but also in sampling much more of what the local area has to offer.”

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart expresses bitter disappointment at failure to add MLD to newborn heel-prick screening

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 9, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has spoken of her bitter disappointment following confirmation that Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) will not be added to the routine newborn heel-prick screening programme, despite sustained campaigning and evidence that the condition can be treated if identified at birth.

MP welcomes DAERA support for BTV movement testing within control zones

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 8, 2026

Confirmation that DAERA will absorb laboratory costs associated with the mandatory pre-movement testing of animals in the designated Bluetongue Temporary Control Zone, has been welcomed by Carla Lockhart MP.

£2.5m inheritance tax threshold a hard-won concession, but remains insufficient

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 8, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has described the Labour government’s increased inheritance tax threshold on agricultural and business property relief as a hard-won and welcome concession, but says it remains insufficient.

New Year Message to the People of Upper Bann

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 7, 2026

As we enter a new year, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reflected on the challenges of the past 12 months while setting out her priorities for 2026, reaffirming her commitment to serving constituents across the area.

Lockhart Shows Support for Morning Buzz Coffee

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a new local business venture after visiting Morning Buzz Coffee, praising the commitment and initiative behind a one-man operation serving the local community.

Rural Roads Must Be Taken Seriously During Severe Winter Weather

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about the safety of rural roads during the current spell of severe winter weather, following a recent bus incident at Esky and ongoing engagement with Roads Service officials on gritting arrangements, grit salt availability and the treatment of rural routes across the constituency.

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Delays to Red Flag Breast Appointments

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns over significant delays facing women referred to breast clinics under the “red flag” pathway across Northern Ireland, with waiting times stretching far beyond the 14-day target designed to ensure rapid assessment where breast cancer is suspected.