Mid Ulster District Council Deputy Chair Councillor Denise Johnston launched Seachtain na Gaeilge at The Burnavon Theatre in Cookstown. The annual Irish language festival runs events across the district throughout March.

The launch included a talk on Presbyterians and the Irish language by Rev Jim Stothers. Local harper and singer Edward Gribben also performed.

Councillor Johnston encouraged local residents to join events suited to all proficiency levels, from beginners to fluent speakers.

Scheduled talks include one by Gael Linn CEO Réamonn Ó Ciaráin on the life and works of George AE Russell at The Burnavon on 5 March. Dr Brian Lacey will speak on the O’Neill Dynasty at Square Box in Ranfurly House that evening.

An exhibition of 24 paintings by Dara Vallely, titled Candle of Vision and inspired by George AE Russell, runs at The Burnavon from 2 to 31 March. Other activities feature an Irish language conversation circle at Dungannon Library on 7 March, a bilingual comedy by Aisteoirí Charn Tóchair at Hill of The O’Neill and Ranfurly House in Dungannon on 14 March, and events in Pomeroy on 13 March and Todd’s Leap on 18 March.

The festival ends with a bilingual walk on Carntogher Mountain on 29 March. Full details are available from the council’s Irish language officers.