Members of the community gathered in Castlecroft Square, Ballymoney, on Sunday evening (1 November) for An Hour of Light, a special event celebrating connection, kindness and positive mental health.
Organised by local community group BEAM-Building Empowerment and Awareness to Mind, the event took place as the clocks went back and the darker evenings began, highlighting the importance of looking after our mental health and emotional wellbeing.
As the sun set over Ballymoney, families, friends and neighbours came together with candles and torches to light up the darkness and share an hour of warmth, friendship and togetherness.
Those attending enjoyed warming bowls of soup, music from local pipers, and arts and crafts activities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for people of all ages.
BEAM organisers Hannah Graham, Clare Doherty, Zara Hutchinson, Katherine Murphy and Lee Kane said:
“It was wonderful to see so many people come together for such a simple but meaningful evening. As the nights draw in, we know that the darker days can be difficult for some people. We wanted to create an opportunity for people to connect, enjoy each other’s company and remind one another that nobody has to face those darker times alone.
“Seeing Castlecroft lit up with candles and torches, with people chatting, laughing and enjoying being together, was really special. It was a lovely reminder of what makes Ballymoney such a caring community.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who came along and helped make the evening so special. Sometimes the smallest gestures of kindness and connection can make the biggest difference.”
The group hopes the event will encourage people to continue looking out for one another throughout the winter months, reinforcing the group’s message: a connected community is a community that cares.
