Big night out in Newcastle

Big night out in Newcastle

25 June 2025

RESIDENTS and staff of Struell Lodge in Downpatrick recently swapped their surroundings for the glitz, glamour and grandeur of Newcastle’s Slieve Donard Hotel.

In what has now become a cherished tradition, the iconic hotel opened its doors to welcome service users and staff for an unforgettable evening of community, joy and inclusion.

The Struell Lodge and Supported Living Service is a South Eastern Trust run service providing support to adults with learning disabilities. 

Hosted by Downpatrick’s Sports Club, the black tie event provided an evening to remember with BBC NI’s very own Hugo Duncan and his band providing the entertainment to ensure a packed dance floor and smiles on every face.

Ann Higgins, whose son Daniel attends Struell Lodge, paid a heartfelt thanks to the staff team at Downpatrick Sports Club “for making the night so special for our loved ones”.

She added: “Seeing their faces light up on the dance floor is a gift we treasure.”

The health trust’s assistant director adult disability, Clare McStay, said staff were delighted to attend the annual formal at the Slieve Donard Hotel, alongside their Downpatrick partners and colleagues, particularly as it welcomed the start of Learning Disability Week. 

“Our pride in our Struell Lodge family is evident and we were delighted that everyone had a fabulous and fun celebration. A big thank you to all who made this event such a great success,” he added.

The Downpatrick facility’s senior manager for residential and supported living services, Diana Patel McIntyre, said the much anticipated formal saw six service users, supported by their dedicated staff team, dressed in their finest attire, join in the festivities with enthusiasm and delight.

“From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere sparked with anticipation and camaraderie,” she said.

“We were delighted to see the legendary Hugo Duncan and his band provide the music and their lively performance had the dance floor alive as smiles were evident on every face.”

Diana added: “The music really set the perfect one, encouraging everyone to celebrate to make a night to remember.”