Why an ice-cream from Gortin is a treat fit for a King!

WITH the Coronation just around the corner, why not head down to Gortin to enjoy a frozen treat that is well and truly fit for a King?

And who knows, while you are there you might even catch a glimpse of King Charles himself in McKeown's Corner Shop, ordering a famous '99', or enjoying a refreshing pint of ale in 'Mossey's' pub!

Indeed, it is said that these two things - ice cream and ale - will see King Charlie's return to the village of Gortin, and this has been confirmed by Luncina Blakiston Houston, former chairperson of Owenkillew Community Centre, who heard the King speak of his intentions first hand!

She explained: "When the then Prince of Wales was last here in 2018, he said he was coming back for a drink at Mossey's Bar, and an ice cream at McKeown's Shop!"

"He hasn't returned yet, but if he does, I am sure he will be impressed with how Gortin has developed, with a new coffee shop, clothes shop, and so much more!"

King Charles III visited Gortin in 2018, and his visit was met with elation and disbelief.

And certainly, the visit was thirsty work, what with opening Gortin's MUGA pitch, helping in the Community Garden, and even trying his hand at DIY in the Men's shed. Perhaps this explains the now King's enthusiasm for a refreshing ice cream or cold drink.

For Luncina, the iconic visit saw the "coming together of the village".

"It is no understatement to say that King Charles truly enjoyed his time in Gortin," she said. "We witnessed the true coming together of the village, and people from all sides of the community where in attendance to welcome Charles and Camilla with open arms. It was a village celebration.

"One of the things he enjoyed was visiting the community garden, and looking at bugs with the local schoolchildren.

"The community garden was once an old sewage works, but it was transformed into a place where people can come together to grow vegetables and promote biodiversity.

"It is no secret that Charles is highly interested in conservation, so this gave him great satisfaction."

Lucinda continued: "Another high point was his time at Gortin Men's Shed. There, he tried his hand at some DIY, and helped make a small wheelbarrow.

"It was a vote of confidence to see him endorse the values and benefits of the Men's Shed movement, which is all about positive mental health and bringing communities together. These Men's Sheds have since been replicated all over Northern Ireland."