David Wilson

Conservationists have removed more than 20kg of coins—equivalent to about 10,000 coins—from gaps between the basalt columns at Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway. The National Trust said rusting and expanding metal was staining and physically damaging the rocks, with some coins requiring more than 20 minutes to extract. Specialist stonemason Nathan Morrow used pliers and grouting tools, while new signage and social-media messaging warn visitors not to insert coins. The Trust is considering turning the recovered coins into an exhibition to highlight the site's conservation needs.

Conservationists have removed more than 20kg, equivalent to about 10,000 coins, wedged into the basalt columns of Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway. The coins had rusted and expanded, causing staining and potentially exerting pressure that could damage the rocks. Specialist stonemason Nathan Morrow used pliers and grouting tools to extract them, with some requiring more than 20 minutes of work. The National Trust has installed new signage discouraging visitors from leaving coins and is considering turning the recovered coins into an exhibition to highlight the site's vulnerability.

Sarah Doherty began working in a Derry shirt factory as a teenager in the late 19th century and spent more than five decades campaigning for better pay and working conditions for the predominantly female workforce. She became active in trade unionism, helped organize workers during and after the 1913 shirtcutters' strike, and held senior roles in labor organizations and the Shirt Making Wages Council. Union membership among Derry's working women doubled by the mid-1940s. The Ulster History Circle honored her with a blue plaque, highlighting her role in advancing women's workplace rights and preserving the history of Derry's shirt-making industry.

Councillors in Londonderry approved Ulster University’s plan for a new teaching and student centre funded by the Irish government’s Shared Island Fund. The multi‑storey facility will connect to existing buildings via a bridge and aims to modernize teaching, research and student services. The expansion forms part of broader growth targets for the Magee campus, though these are under review amid university cost‑cutting and staff reductions. Construction is expected to begin later this year.

The Irish government will create an annual award in honour of Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume, recognising individuals who advance the values he championed and contribute to European unity. Announced by Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the European Parliament, the initiative highlights Hume’s influence on peace in Northern Ireland and his deep connection to European institutions. Members of Hume’s family and political figures welcomed the award as a meaningful tribute to his legacy and inspiration for future generations.

Police in Northern Ireland are trialling three Trucam II handheld devices that combine laser and video technology to identify speeding drivers, aiming to improve enforcement in locations where camera vans cannot be deployed. Road safety officials highlight excessive speed as a major factor in recent fatalities, noting 36 deaths so far in 2026. Officers plan to use the devices across rural and high‑risk roads at any time of day, issuing penalties by post without stopping drivers. Stakeholders emphasize the initiative’s role in reducing serious collisions and addressing community concerns over speeding.

Police in Northern Ireland are trialling three Trucam II handheld cameras that use laser and video technology to detect speeding. The devices allow officers to reach rural roads where existing camera vans cannot operate. Police leaders say reducing serious and fatal collisions remains a priority, with 36 road deaths recorded this year. Road safety advocates welcome the technology, highlighting the high rate of accidents on rural roads and urging stronger enforcement to reduce fatalities.

Sion Mills Cricket Club secured ownership of The Holm Field after more than 160 years, enabled by financial support from the Kathleen Graham Trust established by lottery winners Frances and Patrick Connolly. The acquisition allows the club to pursue grants, expand youth development and stabilise its future after years of legal complications. The Connollys’ philanthropy also helped neighbouring Sion Swifts Football Club purchase its ground, prompting plans for new facilities and infrastructure improvements.

Sion Mills Cricket Club has secured ownership of its historic Holm Field ground after 162 years, made possible by funding from the Kathleen Graham Trust, created by EuroMillions winners Frances and Patrick Connolly. The purchase allows the club to pursue grants and long-term development after years of legal obstacles and financial uncertainty following the closure of the local mill. The Connollys’ philanthropy has also enabled neighbouring Sion Swifts FC to acquire their home ground, with plans underway for upgraded facilities at both clubs.