Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin presented the inaugural Chairperson’s Be Active Cup to winners Ballynahinch Olympic FC on Wednesday 1 August 2018 at Newry Showgrounds.

The Chairperson’s Be Active Cup Tournament is the first of its kind for the district, with teams from various leagues playing against each other and was an opportunity for the Council to promote local sport and encourage strong links between clubs.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Murnin said, “This tournament was a huge success for the district and every team acquitted themselves well, displaying both commitment and sportsmanship."

“Our Be Active campaign is aimed at the whole community and we have been working hard to promote activities that contribute to health and wellbeing in all aspects of life. I was delighted to be involved in the Be Active Cup and want to thank all the teams that participated in the tournament, leagues, match officials and staff for making it such a success.”

The tournament ended with a close match between Drumaness Mills FC against Ballynahinch Olympic FC, with both teams determined to win the Be Active Cup. When the final whistle was blown, the score stood at 2-2 and the match went straight to penalties. After a tense penalty shoot-out, Ballynahinch Olympic FC celebrated their victory with a 3-1 win on penalties.

The competition also provided an opportunity for the youth teams to display their skills. Tollymore United, Valley Rangers FC and Windmill Stars all competed in the mini tournament, with Windmill Stars FC (Youth) coming tops to win the Juvenile Be Active Cup.

Half time provided the opportunity for the Newry City Special Olympics and Football Teams Unite to showcase their teamwork and passion for the sport, inspiring all who watched.

Throughout the tournament stages, charities chosen by Chairman Councillor Murnin have benefited from collections. Present at the final was the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance Service, while Glebe House and Newry Gateway Club were supported in previous rounds.

For further information on the Chairperson’s Be Active Cup tournament, contact leisureandsport@nmandd.org or visit www.newrymournedown.org.