Newly developed handball courts in west Belfast have been officially opened by the Sports Minister.

Located on the site of Coláiste Feirste in the city’s Gaeltacht Quarter the Béal na Carraige Handball Courts consist of two indoor handball courts, an outdoor facility, changing rooms and viewing galleries.

The Minister said: "I am impressed with the development of these wonderful facilities and am pleased that my department, through Sport NI, has been able to make a contribution towards their development. They will add to the sporting fabric of this area, which has suffered from under-investment and deprivation over many years.

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"There has been a long and proud tradition of handball in Belfast and across the north and it is wonderful that our current World Champion Aisling Reilly has been able to join us tonight. I have no doubt that budding Aislings or Paul Bradys will be inspired by these facilities, which will provide a much needed venue now and in the future for training and competition, not only for our top handballers but also those who aspire to greater things, or who just wish to play for enjoyment."

(CD)