Bigging up Bellaghy - one of four WorldHost villages

Bellaghy is one of four places to be named a ‘WorldHost’ village.

It’s after 40 people from more than 20 businesses completed a customer service training programme.

Representatives from food outlets, bars, restaurants, pharmacies and supermarkets all took part.

 Bellaghy has recently enjoyed a tourism boost, thanks to the new Seamus Heaney HomePlace.

HomePlace opened on 30 September.

It celebrates the life and work of the late poet and Nobel Laureate who was one of Ireland’s greatest writers.

Chair of the Council, Councillor Trevor Wilson, says the community has embraced the opportunity to enhance its level of customer service in anticipation of the increased numbers of visitors.

“Their foresight and enthusiasm is to be commended and I’m delighted that their sense of community spirit, as well as their recognition of the important role the play as part of the overall visitor experience, has been recognised with this designation.

 “Everyone involved should be pleased and proud,” he adds.

 ‘Village Takeaway’ shop owner, Derek Buckley, has recently refurbished his business.

 He has seen additional footfall to the café since HomePlace opened.

“My staff thoroughly enjoyed completing the WorldHost programme and learned a lot about the local area in the process. They deserve every credit for participating in the training and for their great customer service,” he adds.

Louise McKinstry, Industry Development Officer, Tourism NI says Bellaghy is just one of four WorldHost Villages in Northern Ireland.

For more information on the WorldHost programme in Northern Ireland please contact worldhost@tourismni.com

Training for the WorldHost programme was facilitated by Siofra O’Reilly, SORT Training, Judith Boyle and Collette McCafferty.