This Week in Belfast

Belfast this week has seen a mixture of significant local news, from sporting triumphs to concerning incidents and heartfelt tributes. The **Belfast Giants** have been crowned Elite League Champions, marking a brilliant season and their fifth title in six years, with star player Ben Lake also celebrating becoming a father. On the football front, **Ulster Rugby** secured a bonus point win in Parma, though they'll need to sharpen up for their next Challenge Cup clash. Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has provided an update on his future after the team's World Cup playoff defeat, while young player Shea Charles expressed his admiration for O'Neill. However, the week has also been marked by serious incidents. A stabbing in **north Belfast** led to a second man being charged and appearing in court, with a solicitor claiming the injured party attacked first. Tragically, **Amy Doherty**, a mother-of-two, was the subject of further court proceedings, with a 30-year-old man charged with her murder. The city also saw a car collide with pedestrians in the city centre, leaving seven people seriously injured. A devastating story emerged regarding the **Natalie McNally** case, with details revealing the killer posed as a journalist to obtain information, and a heartbreaking reminder of her life lost at just 32. On a more somber note, the city mourned the loss of **Michael McConville**, son of the late Jean McConville, at his funeral where his family spoke of navigating "upside down worlds." Tributes were also paid to a dedicated **Belfast activist** whose impact on many lives was deeply felt. The community in North Belfast remembered a grandmother tragically killed in a lorry collision. Concerns were raised about the safety of public spaces following reports of a suspected petrol bomb attack on a flat and a continuing "rampage" by youths, which saw a rescue dog handler reportedly attacked. In politics and community matters, a **DUP MLA** faced "shocking" online threats, prompting a police investigation, with another MLA condemning "vile and threatening" social media comments. The **Presbyterian Church** confirmed an independent safeguarding review. A report highlighted the critical role of juries and the need for better facilities. Stormont faced criticism regarding the **Review of Education** and issues with **summer schemes** for special needs children, though the EA later confirmed a u-turn on the latter. The **cost of living crisis** continues to bite, with a grocery retailer closing a Belfast store. There were also stories of resilience and achievement. A **Botanic stalwart** is retiring after years of service, and local music icon **Dana** shared how Cliff Richard supported her after a cancer scare. A local resident celebrated two years of sobriety after struggling with addiction for two decades. **Bronagh Gallagher** spoke of how "Derry Girls" has boosted the city's profile, and Belfast's role in filming upcoming TV shows was highlighted. Northern Ireland's first 'passive' apartments are nearing completion, promising to "re-define city living." In arts and culture, a new series of psalms inspired by the Troubles has launched, and the **Lyric Theatre** is showcasing the acclaimed production 'GROUP!'. Four **Banksy paintings** are set to go up for auction, and there was excitement about Northern Ireland's filming locations being featured in upcoming shows. Other news included the King experiencing a mishap during a visit to a solar panel firm, the ongoing closure of **Boston College tapes**, and a court case involving Jeffrey and Eleanor Donaldson. A local lifeguard is facing charges related to alleged **UDA-linked sectarian attacks**. The **Marine Bar**, a historic pub, faces potential closure due to licensing laws. There were also reports of a man charged with assault of a cabin crew member and a burglar who broke both ankles trying to escape after causing criminal damage. Finally, there was good news for shoppers