First cross-community carol service for Ardoyne flashpoint

The community will come together for the carol service at the weekend. Credit: UTV

The decision to hold the first ever cross-community carol service at the Ardoyne flashpoint in north Belfast has been hailed as a “beacon of hope” for the future.

Saturday will see the community come together for the switch-on of Christmas tree lights.

It comes 18 months after the foundations were laid for a resolution to the long-standing parading dispute in the area, in a deal brokered by Derry businessman Jim Roddy and Reverend Harold Good.

Now, the carol service and funfair will go ahead in the grounds of the Ambulance Service.

The Salvation Army will accompany a cross-community choir and politicians from across party divides have been invited to attend.

Reverend Good believes the way the people of Ardoyne have turned what once seemed impossible into the possible should be an example to them.

“It’ll be a wonderful statement of what can be done,” he said.

“I would like to think they will maybe catch something of the spirit of what’s happening in this area.”

Father Gary Donegan added: “People say Christmas is for children. Well, for our children and for our future together, it bodes well.”