ink magazine ballina jan/feb 14

It’s that time of year again when we need to consider ordering home heating oil. After the beautiful summer a chill has set in and it’s time to turn up the heat. Despite everything, heating oil is still one of the cheapest, warmest and most convenient methods of heating our homes. It’s so easy just to turn a switch and in minutes your home is nice and cosy with no effort. When it comes time to order, make sure you have Ballina based company J & E Hughes Fuel Oils number fi rst on the list.

Jerome and Eugene started their company fi ve years ago and are delighted with the support they have received from the locality

and their thousands of customers with new ones being added every day. Of course they learned from an expert , their Father Val Hughes who was in the business in Ballina for forty years before that. Born and reared in Ardnaree, Ballina they know the ins and outs of every by-road and high-road covering West Sligo to North Mayo also coveing parts of East Mayo and West Mayo. So you can be assured of effi cient & prompt delivery . J & E Hughes Fuel Oil make customer service their number one priority so when you order you can be certain of a competitive price and friendly service with familiar faces.

4

We are delighted to announce the opening of Our Beauty Rooms led by Beauty Therapist Aoife Leonard. We are proud to say that we are stockists of Award winning Nimue Skin Technol-ogy skincare (as used in the Ailesbury clinic’s). Nimue isn’t just a cosmetic is it best described as an advanced derma-cosmeceutical.

Nimue is globally recognised for it’s modern skin classifi cation concept (Environmentally Damaged Skin, Hy-per pigmented Skin, Problematic Skin and Interactive) and unique philoso-phy based on four treatment pillars, Rejuvenation, Restoration, Ant oxida-tion and Sun Protection.Nimue product’s consist of AHA’S (al-pha hydroxy acids), lactic acid & citric acid, Vitamin A & E ester (super for anti-ageing & powerful anti-oxidants). AHA’S are important in daily homecare

use as they gently exfoliate & renew the skin which is brilliant for reducing pore size, the healing of acne scar-ring, improving over all skin texture , appearance & elasticity. Over time these will reduce the appearance of fi ne-line’s & wrinkle’s.

When a client comes in for the initial consultation we decide what skin clas-sifi cation they fall under, for example environmentally damaged. Most of us fall under this category quite simply because of the environment we live in. A client with environmentally damaged skin will have broken capillaries on the cheeks & the corners of the nose; their skin might be slightly dry. We have treated this skin type with the Nimue Rejuvenation Treatment & prescribed homecare for the client to follow. 9/10 of our clients will tell you that their skin is glowing & even better the results last & don’t fade which happens with other standard cosmetic skin care brands.

The Glycolic Treatment is also avail-able to those who suffer with acneic skin. The results achieved are impres-sive just ask Aoife as she followed the in salon treatment & homecare for

5

problematic skincare & She will tell you from her own experience!

Here at Laurannes we offer you the convenience of beauty & hair dressing services all under one roof in one easy access location. Our priority is your comfort & well-being. We now offer a full range of beauty treatments includ-ing eyebrow shaping, tinting, waxing, manicures, pedicures, shellac 2 week manicure, Vita-Liberata Spray Tan, Artdeco Makeovers & Nimue facials. Find us on facebook ‘Laurannes Hair Salon’ to keep up to date with special offers & competitions. Nimue Skincare & Artdeco are also available to retail.

To celebrate the launch of Nimue & to beat the dry, fl aking, irritated winter skin we are giving a fantastic offer for January & February (See Below).

The results achieved using the Nimue home care programmes are impres-sive, but when combined with the pro-fessional Nimue treatments available in the skin treatment salon, results are outstanding.

Our January & February special offers are

• File/Polish/Wash & Blow dry €25• • 3 Nimue facials for the price of 2.

(must be paid for upfront

• 2 for the price of one full body spray tan. • Bring a friend & she goes absolutely free!!

(Offer available on Thurs only).• • Have a Nimue Facial and recieve a free Blow Dry on a

Tues, Weds &Thurs

6

Call in to our new Beauty Salon and see our fantastic range of treatments and products

8

WELCOMEIt seems appropriate at this stage to offer a massive thanks to all who have worked with, contributed to and been part of Ink over the past 3 years. It has been a roller-coaster for us as we have tried to hit the right note, and keep everyone happy :). Those who have graced the covers have found there 5 minutes of fame and a little more in some cases and we are so proud if we have helped in any way, shape or form.

And so with the next issue we hope to bring all of those pieces together and start on road that can only bring good things to all. What is in store?..... You will have to wait and see.

Back to this months issue. We have 2 interviews, both positive and both from people you know. The girls from TY in the Convent in Ballina are on the road to stardom and the 2 Ladies featured in our second interviewdeserve any credit (or prizes) that may come their way

A huge thanks as always to the

SALES ENQUIRIES: [email protected] - 087 7688119INK Magazine accepts no responsiblity for the content or offers in any advertising within this magazine

unless stated otherwise.

Interviewees and to our models this month Leeann and Chelsea. Also thanks to Martha and Amanda at allure for there creativity and Andrea Murray for her make up skills. A big thanks to Corinne Beattie for the use of her studio on this very damp and miserable month.

So read through and fi nd interviews, recipes, car reviews, local business and our up to date local directory. We look forward to the rest of the year with a kick in our step.

Thanks

Jay

Inside this issue...

Pg 12

Pg 10

Pg 30

Pg 29

Pg 10

Pg 50

Pg 42

10

Pitch Perfect.

The truth is, this is the second time I have done this interview. The last time I was looking for a small piece to put in the magazine, but after a very short while, I knew it needed a bigger presence. An so it is, from page 40 to page 1.

Its an interesting tale really. I didn’t know anything about these girls from St Mary’s Convent (plus one man – we cant forget Mr Mcloughlin) until after the fact. The fact being that they had performed a highly praised musical, with its story having a base in the famous Phantom of the Opera. It was from hearing, not just from one, but a number of people who had attended the shows back in October. So I wanted to know, what was all the fuss about. ( I have since watched the DVD)

“We don’t really know why, all we know

is we really enjoyed the whole thing.” The girls pretty much all chime in at once. “It was like a bonding, team effort. People we barley knew before, we now have as good friends because of working together with them.” Mr Mcloughlin nods in approval of that comment, they have said all the right things so far. So how did it all begin?

“We have been running musicals in the school since 1974. There was a break from it for few years but it was revived back in 1984 and has continued since without stop.” Peter (Mr Mcloughlin) has been heavily involved in most of the more recent ones and plays the part of the Phantom in this one. He worked along with Ms Deacy, Ms Donaghue and Ms Leanord on this musical and is quick to give credit to all. Today I’m with the leads, all accept one, Lilly is missing but she is mentioned so much you would swear she was here. The others here – Sophie Dodd,

11

Katie O’Malley, Aiofe Kilcullen, Grainne Downes, Roisin Bourke, Kate-Leigh Farrell, Xenia ‘Warrior Princess’ Gillespie, Penny west and Rachel ‘I’m just saying’ Forde. A feisty bunch......

So who was the best performer? The most humble in the group mention themselves before agreement is made that the most impression was made by Lilly, who is absent and Aiofe (“voice of an angel”) who is here, long flowing red locks and all. Why do they say that? “Because they were! When they opened their mouths it was unbelievable what came out.” I ask for a demonstration and Aiofe and half of the group oblige and I would have to agree, even off the top of their heads they are impressive. I am even treated to a chorus of Oom Pa Pa from everyone in the room. “Over 100 were auditioned for parts and in total there were over 200 including the 2nd

year choir involved in the musical. AND THERE WAS NO FIGHTING!””We did 4 shows plus a matinee and we were thrilled with standing ovations every time.” “It took about 1 month to out it together (Katie Missed a concert for it) and everyone gelled straight away. It has been one of the best things we have done ever!.” In-fact the whole notion of Transition Year is brought up a number of times and these girls have nothing but praise for it. “We would recommend to anyone to do transition year in this school. It has been a real eye opener and a fun time. Not just the musical but all that is involved.

Its great to see such positivity in the future prospects that are in the room. There is no room for negativity here. I must book a ticket for the next musical before I leave.

Model: LeeannHair by : Martha & Amanda @ Allure

Makeup by: Andrea MurrayLocation : Corrine Beatie Studio

HAIRDRESSINGAWARD WINNING HAIR SALON

Tel: 096 7500 0.

15

Model: ChelseaHair by : Martha & Amanda @ Allure

Makeup by: Andrea Murray

HAIRDRESSINGAWARD WINNING HAIR SALON

Tel: 096 7500 0.

17

Hair by : Martha & Amanda @ AllureMakeup by: Andrea Murray

2020

Detox & Shed inches with Shrink-ing Violet/Minimi body wraps to start your New Year

Get your year off to a great start by trying a revolutionary body wrap experience this January Shrinking Violet and Minimi body wraps are one of the most powerful body wrap products available in salons today. Un-like traditional Inch Loss Body Wraps they donʼt work by dehydration but by Lipolysis*, a revolutionary method to remove unwanted fat from problem areas.

The wraps are a painless, effortless process that can successfully remove fat from in problem areas such as thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Lipolysis is achieved by chemical reaction and heat which permanently break down fat within fat cells. We have been get-ting fantastic results with clients who are de-termined to shed inches with up to 20 inch losses from key stubborn areas.

The main difference between the Minimi wrap & shrinking violet wrap is the addition of cellulite reducing ingredients in the Mini-mi wrap for those that are conscious of dim-pling. Clients who have taken up a course of treatments are getting fantastic results. These fat cells will only reform should you

continue to follow an unhealthy lifestyle. We have some great special offers for people trying to get back into shape after the festive period Two body wraps for €100 normally €130 euro, Three body wraps €150 with a free lash tint normally €207 & A single wrap & facial for €80 normally €120. Contact 096-77391 with any ques-tions & to book in now.

Weddings Online.ie awards -

We are also delighted to announce that we have been short listed in the fi nals for the Weddingsonline.ie awards for best Bridal Make up & Bridal Hair making it to the top six in the country in each category. The awards will take place in Dublin in February thanks to all our fantastic brides for giving us the opportuni-ty to work with them on their big day & for all of the support & votes. From Niamh & The Bella Beauty Team. Fingers & Toes crossed.

Visit our Facebook Page Bella Beauty Ballina.

(096)77391) www.bellabeauty.ie

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January Specials @ Bella Beauty - Detox

Shrinking V Body Wraps 2 for €100Shrinking Violet Wraps 3 for €140

Body Wrap & Deep Cleansing Facial €70Brightening Facial Peel €60

Detox Lymphatic Drainage Massage €55 Threading two areas €15 (eyes,lip, chin,face)

HD Brows €35 096 77391

22

Do you want to change your eating habits for good? Do you want to lose weight, have more energy and fi t into those skinny jeans? Have you tried loads of diets and nothing has worked? If the answer is yes then we, at Foodys Pharmacy have the answer for you.

NUPOThe Nupo diet consists of six portions of Nupo Diet meal re-placement products and you can choose any variety you wish. The six portions of Nupo that you eat or drink during the day will give you the right combination of vitamins, minerals and nutrients – with a minimal level of calories. Depending on the level of weight loss you hope to achieve we can help you decide which diet will suit you.

The Nupo Diet tastes good, has a huge level of scientifi c evi-dence to support it and you can still eat food in conjunction with it. We can deal with you in person in our private consultation room, check your BMI and support you on your journey. All you need is will power and motivation!

Foodys pharmacy, Health, Trust & Care.

25

The Bucket List

It’s become a bit of a local Facebook phenomenon… The Bucket List. Westport DJ at WRFM Westport Radio, Rita Scott, is responsible for a fantastic competition for parents of special-needs children in Mayo.

For those who don’t know, she is the presenter of The Crypt, which airs on WRFM Westport. She launched the ‘The Bucket List’ to give a lift to those who spend so much time looking after others. The prizes seem to be growing and growing. Check them out on Facebook - www.facebook.com/wrfm98.

Included is a €200 tattoo voucher and a €50 piercing voucher from AWOL Galway. In this months magazine we have caught up with 2 of the finalists, Sarah Craig and Kathryn Connor both from Ballina who’s children both suffer with Cerebral Palsy. With thanks to Declan Howley for brining it to my attention. There are 15 nominations in all and we can get to vote for them one the Facebook page from Feb 1st.

Inspirational doesn’t really describe these two. My first question is How do you do it? “Its just life to us” says Sarah. They both agree on this point “We don’t know any other way” says Katheryn. I expected to here that life is purely caring for these 2 but the reality is life is full of many other things to. “I am studying a PLC course in GMIT, I am only 24 so I still want to make the most of what I can with my life. My family are so helpful with Ruairi and I am very grateful for that space that they give me.” Says Sarah. Katheryn keeps herself busy too. “I’m working with Airc in Castlebar, who support kids with disabilities, so my life is full to.” I told you, inspirational.

A lot is spoken off book, much of which lets you know just how much of a struggle life is, but this piece is not about the negative.

The reality is from these two that despite difficulty, you have to press on or else you wouldn’t be able to cope. So if your feeling like supporting a GREAT cause in these girls, then please give them a vote on Feb 1st. I wonder what tattoo they would get if they won………

26

Going Places? Get There With Fred.

Buses: 14, 24, 29

& 33-seatersTaxi Coaches on requestl l

l

086-865 6449 | 087-223 5453

Fred B U S H I R E

ueenan & Sons

Email: [email protected]

096-22619

Happy New Year & Thank You to everyone for your continued support

school tours school runs hens stags parties discos

35+ years’ experience wheelchair access taxi service football matches long-distance concerts mystery tours festivals, etc

333333

33333

333

28

Burmese Chicken Curry IngredientsChicken thighs 1 kgOnions, diced 1 cupPeanut Oil 5 tspnGarlic, crushed 2 tbspnChopped tomatoes 100 gmsPowdered ginger 1 tbspn Chili powder ½ tspn Salt to taste Fish sauce 1 tspnGround Turmeric^ 1 tbspnCoconut Milk 1 tin ( 400 ml )Gram fl our# 1 tbspnJuice from one lemon Fresh Coriander ½ bunch, chopped

Method• Heat the peanut oil in a cook/serve casserole dish.• Brown chicken pieces and onions, stir in garlic and powdered spices and cook lightly; stir in the

tomatoes, keep sauteeing for 2 minutes.• Add about 2 cups water, just enough to cover the chicken. Add 1 tspn salt.• Put in oven at 180°C for half an hour, without a lid.• Remove and add the milk of one coconut ( or a tin of coconut milk )• Cook 10 minutes more on top of the stove and add 1 tsp. of gramfl our and 1 cup of cold water.

Add the fi sh sauce.• Cook an additional fi ve minutes. Check seasoning.• Stir in lemon juice and half the chopped coriander.• Serve with boiled rice, or on a bed of egg noodles, garnished with lots of chopped coriander.

^ Did you know that turmeric has over 20 health benefi ts; I use it in all my Indian, Indonesian, Bur-mese and Malaysian dishes at Bisini.

# Also known as chickpea fl our ( wrongly ), it is the powder obtained by roasting and pounding ben-gal gram lentils.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND FACEBOOK

29

- M E A L D E A L -€13.99€13.99€13.99€13.99

2x REG. DRINKS 2x REG. FRIES

12” 3 TOPPING PIZZA

BALLINA | HOME DELIVERY - 09672241 | ORDER ONLINE - www.papajohns.ie

Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned Chipper. Its not wrong to say that pretty much all of us in our area have recognised the taste and service that has come from Caffolas over the year. The Premises was recently taken over, have they kept up the tradition we have all grown to enjoy?

Ricardo & Caterina, are a young couple from an Italian Family with a long history in the Fish & Chip business, so who better to take over.

They describe themselves as ‘passionate’ about their work, keeping true to the traditional chipper while adding in a few new ideas too.

They have been running Caffolas for over a year already and would really like to thank the town for welcoming them into their lives.

“We have a long way to go yet but we are determined to see Cafollas as the family friendly meeting point for the community of Ballina”

30

500g strong white flour, plus extra for dusting 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast 1 tsp salt up to 350ml lukewarm water a little sunflower oil, for greasing

Method

Make the dough by tipping the flour, yeast and salt into a large bowl and making a well in the middle. Pour in most of the water and use your fingers or a wooden spoon to mix the flour and water together until combined to a slightly wet, pillowy, workable dough - add a splash more water if necessary. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for at least 10 mins until smooth and elastic. This can also be done in a tabletop mixer with a dough hook. Place the dough in a clean oiled bowl, cover with cling film and leave to rise until doubled in size. This could be up to 2 hours

Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7. Knock back the dough by tipping it back onto a floured surface and pushing the air out. Mould the dough into a rugby ball shape that will fit a 900g loaf tin and place in the tin. Cover with a clean tea towel and leave to prove for 30 mins. Dust the top of the loaf with a little more flour and slash the top with a sharp knife if you want. Bake the bread for 15 mins, then reduce the heat to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 and continue to bake for 30 mins until the loaf sounds hollow when removed from the tin and tapped on the base. Leave the bread on a wire rack to cool completely. The loaf will stay fresh in an airtight container for 3 days or can be frozen for 1 month.

Katies Cooking Corner..... Good ole Fashion Bread With a little Help From Daddy

32

Monday – Friday 7pm – 10pm Saturday and Sunday 12pm- 10pm.

Jack Ryan appears to be just another New York executive to his friends and loved ones, but his enlistment into the CIA secret-ly goes back years. He was brought in as a brainy Ph.D. who crunches global data – but when Ryan ferrets out a meticulously planned scheme to collapse the U.S. economymy and spark global chaos, he becomes the only man with the skills to stop it.

Now, he’s gone fully operational, thrust into a world of mounting suspicion, deception and deadly force. Caught between his tight-lipped handler Harper, his in-the-dark fi ancée Cathy and a brilliant Russian oligarch, Jack must confront a new reality where no one can seem to be trusted, yet the fate of millions rests on his fi nding the truth.

With the urgency of a lit fuse, he’s in a race to stay one step ahead of everyone around him.

COMING SOON - Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

15A - Jack Ryan, as a young covert CIA analyst, uncovers a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy with a terrorist attack.

Director: Kenneth Branagh

Starring: Chris Pine, Kevin Costner, Keira Knightley

Release Date: 24 January 2014Programme Length: 1hrs, 40mins

34

In assocIatIon wIth

www.ultimateweddingslive.com

Join us in Castlebar Saturday February 8th &

Sunday February 9th 2014!Schedule of Events • Doors open 12.00pm daily

• Catwalk shows 1.00pm and 5.00pm each day

• An Audience with Franc 3.00pm daily

• Doors close 6.00pm

Location Breaffy Events Arena, Castlebar, Co Mayo

Dates February 8th & 9th 2014

sponsored by

35

The Ice House wins Best Boutique Hotel at the Portside Annual Golfers Guide Awards 2014

Mayo’s The Ice House came away as winner of the ‘Best Boutique Hotel’ Award at the Annual Portside Golfers Guide Awards, announced last Wednesday the 15th of January in Dublin. Mayo native Minister of State for Tourism & Sport, Michael Ring TD presented the awards which included all Ireland and provincial links and parklands, golf resorts and

hotels specialising in golf travel and tourism, and golf club secretaries and managers.

The awards recognize leadership roles played by Irish Golf Clubs and associated golf interests across the country. Each catego ry winner was presented with an appropriately

inscribed plaque to record their success in this year’s awards programme. All awards were won on the basis of an all Ireland poll undertaken from within the golf and golf relat-

ed business community.

“At a time of considerable stress within the sector” said Portside Media Director Paddy McCarthy, “Golf providers as much as anyone else need moments to lift spirits and cele-brate all that is excellent in Irish golf. This evening’s awards refl ects our wish to recognise

individual achievement by those involved in our industry”. He said.

The 2014 edition of Golfers Guide to Ireland was also launched in Dublin last Wednes-day. Publishers, Portside Media Director Paddy McCarthy, said the Guide had become an

essential part of the travelling golfer’s kit when planning a trip to or within all of Ireland.

36

Using the very latest in sliding track technology you will be amazed at how much storage space our product provides wall to wall and floor to ceiling with a wide range of accessories including shoe and tie racks, drawers and baskets to help you keep your wardrobe organised and tidy. 10 year guaranteed sliding system. Irish manufactured.

Bunree, Ballina, Co. MayoPhone: 096 71247

For a quotecall us now

TM-Ad002-SlideGlide-Jan14-v1.indd 1 14/01/2014 14:29

37

Gills Driving School

The Award Winning Driving School

Phone 096 73030 www.gillgroup.ie

Special Offer

6 lessons for €150

38

Massbrook Boarding KennelsMassbrook Boarding KennelsMassbrook Boarding KennelsFoxford, Co Mayo

Telephone 094 925 6310

Established 1992Family Run

Quality care for your best friend!!

MBK

“The Choice of Champions”

Contact 094 925 6310For details of your nearest stockist

39

Featured in the Spring 2014 edition of

Self Build & Improve Your Home

magazine available at all newsagents

maughan & associates architecture • engineering • planning

18 DMEK centre, teeling street, ballina, co. mayo

Design Planning Applications Surveying Project Supervision Feasibility Studies Fire Safety Engineering 3D Modelling

Tel: (096) 75696 Email: [email protected]

www.maughanassociates.ie Building this year? Are you prepared for the new building control regulations?

Contact us today for more information

3D modelling

3D modelling

New Build

Extensions

Refurbishment

42

THE INK MODEL AWARDS!at The Broken Jug

43

F = FacebookT = Twitter

Insurance BrokersDurcan Insurance Abbey Street, Ballina 096 22822 [email protected]/Convenience StoreClarkes Garage (F) Killala Road, Ballina 096 73464 [email protected] Centra (F) Circular Road, Ballina 096 60054 . www.caseycentra.ie [email protected] Sabrina’s Dillon Terrace, Ballina 096 7316

Hair by Jaqueline (F) Garden Court Ballina 096 76860 www.hairbyjacqueline.ie [email protected] Hairdressing Market Square 096 75000

Hardware Store Duffy’s Hardware O’Rahilly Street, Ballina 096 73209

Car RepairsMK Tyres Ardnaree, Ballina 096 70523

Clever Garage Behy rd, Ballina 096 75009 Accountants Cahill Trautt & Co (F/T) Garden Street, Ballina 096 22104 www.cahilltrautt.com Tracey Glacken CPA Glacken Accountants & Registered Auditors & Accountants 41 Pearse Street, Ballina 096 73880 086 3536477 www.glackenaccountants.com PoliticiansMichelle Mulherin T.D. John Street, Ballina 096 77596 [email protected] Barbers O’Rourkes Barbers Market Square, Ballina 096 73078 KitchensBrook Interiors (F) St Enda’s Villas, Ballina 096 70621 www.brookinterior.com [email protected] Ginty & Sons Killala Road, Ballina 096 22614 087 9014419 www.gintymemorials.com [email protected] Del Pappas (F) Tone Street, Ballina 096 60006 [email protected] Bond Cafe Old Bond Store 09675060Drapers Peter Timlins Pearse Street, Ballina 096 22320

OpticiansO’Reilly Hughes Opticians Hill Street, Ballina 096 72100 [email protected] Mulligan’s Pharmacy (F) Kevin Barry Street, Ballina 096 77445

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TyresCoyne Tyres, Ballina Waterlane, Ballina 096 21935 [email protected] Tyres Killalla Rd, Ballina 096 21888

Crash RepairsPeyton Crash Repairs Carracastle, Ballina 096 45027 www.peytoncrashrepair.com [email protected] C&C Cellular (Vodafone) Market Square, Ballina 096 73222 Mobile Phones Kilkelly Meteor Garden Street, Ballina 096 77116 Buses & TaxisFred Queenan Bus Hire Ballina, Co Mayo 086 86564449 ArchitectsMaughan & Associates 18 Dmek Ctr Teeling st, Ballina 096 75696 Auctioneers, Estate Agents & ValuersDNG Michael Boland (F/T) Garden Street, Ballina 096 76557 www.dng.ie [email protected] Contractors Brusna Energy Solutions (F) Stokane, Enniscrone, Co Sligo 096 74980 087 7445555 www.brusnaenergysolutions.com [email protected]

Finances ServicesMelvin Financial Services Pearse Street, Ballina 096 70244 www.melvinfs.com [email protected] SuppliesA & N Tempany Hill St, Ballina 096 72607

Gift IdeasGift It Dillon Tce 096 21249 [email protected] DealersConnolys Audi Garage Foxford Rd 096 79000

48

Unit 3 Behy Road Business Park(Opposite Davys), Ballina - Tel: 096 75009

• Pre-NCT Test • Mechanic /Electrical Repairs

• Full Crash Repair • Oil Exchange

• Car Audio Auto Alarm • Computer Diagnostics

SERVICE YOU CAN TRUSTCALL US FOR A PRICE TODAY!Tel: 096 75009 | Mob: 087 948 7714 or 087 090 5356

Email: [email protected]

We Collect & Return your car for FREEWe Collect & Return your car for FREE

(Opposite Davys), Ballina - Tel: 096 75009(Opposite Davys), Ballina - Tel: 096 75009

Now Stocking Part Worn Tyres from €25

50

Test Drive....... The Audi A3 Saloon

The brochure on the new Audi A3 Saloon says “ The Audi A3 Saloon is the first compact saloonto sport the four rings. It extends the Audiproduct portfolio in the world’s fastest growingsegment – the A segment – with the additionof an important, forward-looking derivative. InIreland, the A-Segment Saloon accounts for over25% of total annual sales. Starting at €30,480on the road, the A3 Saloon is well equipped tocompete in this competitive market.” But to be honest all we want to know is How does it feel to drive and more importantly how do YOU feel when driving it.

The other cars in its class would be the Golf GTI or the Volvo V40 so straight away you get a visual comparison. The Volvo not even an option for me as it brings back 2 many memories of trampoline like car journeys as a kid (I’m sure they are perfection now). The Golf? If I was 39 and single then maybe, but I’m 39, married with 2 kids... (not a complaint, HAPPILY MARRIED).So from looks and general life perspective this car would suit my needs more.

First things first.... The look of the car is, of course, very much Audi, not just the 4 rings but the shape and the feel of the interior. Decked out on this model a few extras that keep the gadget fan in you happy including a pop up screen for control of the lights, radio, bluetooth etc including an upgrade that will allow ipads to connect with bluetooth to play music from. Speaking of Music, the upgraded Bang and Olufsen stereo is, well, music to the ears.

This is the manual version we are in today, 6 gears, 150bhp and a very smooth and quiet 2.0 diesel engine. You get the feeling of acceleration that you expect without any unnecessary jerk of the neck and trip to casualty.

The 6 Speed gearbox allows you to cruise when needed and for those who love to ‘drive’ it gives you a feeling of complete control. It even has a ‘wife’ style helper on the dash that reminds you when you should be changing gear.

I took the A3 out for a day and used it as I would any other vehicle, and it passed and surpassed

my expectations and in a very short space of time there was no fear driving in traffic or tight spaces through town. And of course visual rear parking sensors came in handy to.

An ‘all in all’ review? Very smooth, a step up in class from your average family saloon and price wise, not completely crazy. And lets not forget the boot (we Irish love our boots). Very spacious without making the car look like its back heavy from the outside. Unlike its older brother the A6 it is not sporty in any way but rather a perfectly pleasant drive made more pleasant by the dual air con for front and back passengers. Bound to keep a few happy.

51

NEXT MONTH

NEW AND EXCITING TIMES

FOR INK!!

STAY TUNED

52

A336 monthly payments of

On the road price

Deposit / Part exchange

€299

€26,750

€7,648.11

Optional Final Payment

Total HP Price

€10,380

€28,942.11

From €299 per monthon PCP

36 monthly payments of

On the road price


€439

€45,590

€13,755.57


Total HP Price

€19,707.60

€49,417.17

A6From €439 per month

on PCP

A6


On the road price


€349

€30,530

€8,985


Total HP Price

€11,660

€33,361.88

A3 SaloonFrom €349 per month

on PCP


On the road price


€449

€42,060

€12,585.47


Total HP Price

€17,329.20

€46,228.67

A5From €449 per month

on PCP

PCP: The smarter way to buy your new Audi

Audi BallinaRehins, Ballina, Co. MayoTel: 096 79000or www.audiballina.ie

Motor GroupConnollyest 1939

*Total HP Price includes acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Audi Finance is a trading style of Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland, authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules.

ink magazine ballina jan/feb 14

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