The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Gavin Robinson was recently treated to a different view of the City by staff from Bryson LaganSports. The Lord Mayor joined the CEO of the Bryson Group, John McMullan and Councillor John Kyle on a journey down the Lagan River and found out more about the organisation and the plans they are working on to breathe new life into the river.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Alderman Gavin Robinson said: “I want to congratulate Bryson LaganSports on their efforts to make Watersports accessible for everyone. We’re very lucky to have this wonderful resource here in our city and it’s been very interesting to find out more about the charity’s work. I wish them every success for the future, particularly with their involvement in the World Police and Fire Games event which I’m sure will be a huge boost.

”Bryson LaganSports is part of the Bryson Charitable Group, Northern Ireland’s leading social enterprise.  The inner city venue has been open since 1995 and is committed to providing opportunities for young and old, particularly in marginalized communities to participate in Watersports and other outdoor activities.  The benefits are far reaching and include supporting healthy lifestyles, personal development and cross community/inter-ethnic understanding. The centre has worked closely with the Department for Social Development to both co-ordinate a water safety education programme and deliver free Watersports activities to communities and young people within the Laganside wards. During the last year over 4,000 people enjoyed time on the River Lagan and participated in water safety awareness courses.

John McMullan, CEO of Bryson Charitable Group  said.

"We are delighted to welcome the Lord Mayor of Belfast to our Watersports centre right in the heart of Belfast.  It has been a great opportunity to update the Lord Mayor, the City Council and the wider community on our plans going forward.  We are particularly delighted to be hosting one of the first events taking place at the World Police and Fire Games which is coming to Northern Ireland at the beginning of August.  A number of teams from around the world have already signed up to take part in the Dragon Boat event which we will be hosting.  The Lagan offers wonderful opportunities for people to get involved in sport and it is fantastic resource right here on our door step.  We want to welcome and encourage more people to get involved.”

The centre is based off the Ravenhill Road and very close to the City Centre and only a 5 minute walk from Central Train Station offers a range of activities including:·        

Canoeing/Kayaking·        

Bellboating/Dragon Boating·        

Rowing·        

Cycling and Walking

The centre has recently achieved the Adventuremark accreditation, which certifies the quality of the services offered.

To find out how you can enjoy time on the River Lagan contact Bryson LaganSports on info@brysonlagansports.org