I believe there is a real, palpable buzz about the city of Derry right now, with the cultural programme being strengthened on a weekly basis. A good source informs me that there was a fantastic vibe about the city on Saturday afternoon past, as part of the Walled Towns Day events (21st & 22^nd August) at the Seafood Festival and music outside the City of Culture offices provided by up and coming local band John Deery and the Heads.

On Sunday past the Playlist Festival played host again to more talented local bands including Pure Fresh and Balkan Alien Sound.

Indeed, only last week was it announced that Derry will become part of the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race in July 2012 with a showcase festival to conclude the transatlantic stage of the 40,000 mile race to the finish – exposing Derry to a huge global audience.

A big thumbs-up to the city’s many culture providers. With this in mind, it is timely that a new website is being launched by Derry City Council giving details of a comprehensive ‘What’s On’ guide for the city, with the latest on festivals and events in the city from the arts/culture and business sectors to food & drink.

 Sound Communications wishes the website all the best in becoming a useful tool for a city with a growing event schedule. Further details on the website can be found at: www.whatsonderrylondonderry.com

Eibhlin Boydell

A Publicity Association is being established in Derry, in response to the spotlight focussing in on the region, in the lead up to the City of Culture events being hosted in 2013.

The group will represent advertising, design, marketing, digital technologies, public relations and the media with an intention to network and lobby for members’ interests.

This is something Sound Communications supports and believes that it is important, in light of the plans for Derry in the coming years that we support local business, and make best use of local resources before seeking assistance further afield. 

If you are involved in advertising, design, marketing, digital technologies, public relations or the media – are based in the North West – and want to get involved in setting up the group come along to Starbucks (Crescent link) for a coffee and a chat on Wednesday 18 August at 6.30pm.

For further information contact Donal Doherty on email: donal@conversegroup.com or call 028 71286767.