Ards and North Down Borough Council organised the Mayor's Cup 2026, a three-day programme of youth football and wellbeing activities at the Blair Mayne Wellington and Leisure Complex.

The event involved 150 participants aged 12 to 14 from local football clubs across the borough. It aligned with the theme of fostering a sense of belonging and included workshops on personal development, resilience, and positive relationships.

Partners included Sport Changes Life, with support from Ark Housing Association, Clanmil Housing, Radius Housing, and Woven Housing. The programme formed part of the Department for Communities and Housing Executive's Housing for All initiative.

The final day featured a mixed-team tournament in World Cup format to promote interaction across clubs. Parents and carers attended a family lunch and celebration, joined by local figures David Jeffrey, Marissa Callaghan, and Gerry Armstrong.

Mayor Councillor Gillian McCollum noted the participants' engagement with football and workshops led to growth in confidence and friendships. The event coincided with Children's Mental Health Week, providing spaces for resilience and teamwork practice. She thanked partners, coaches, volunteers, and guests.