Drone expo day in Carrick

The Drone Expo Day, organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, will showcase the very latest eye-in-the-sky crafts, from 1.00 pm until 5.00 pm.

Chairman of the council’s Economic Growth and Tourism Committee, Councillor Billy Ashe, said: “The events planned include everything from flying drones indoors to racing model cars. The helicopter simulator is another superb attraction and should prove hugely popular.”

Drone enthusiasts and complete novices alike are invited to come to show off their skills at Carrickfergus Civic Centre.

A special indoor flying zone will be set up and the opportunity offered to compete to win a micro drone.

A time trial will test drone pilots’ abilities to the limit, challenging competitors to race their crafts around and through obstacles without crashing.

Visitors will also be invited to get behind the controls of a helicopter simulator with a choice of four models to experience.

Mid Ulster Models, specialists in radio-controlled crafts, will be displaying a selection of fixed-wing model aircraft and advising on how people can get involved in the hobby.

Outside, a purpose-built racetrack will host smaller carts for younger children and nitro-fuelled remote-controlled racing cars for the adults.

Visitors are invited to bring along their own model cars and race against others for a prize for the fastest lap of the day.

A treasure hunt, radio broadcast, face painting, “give aways” and retailers’ discounts are also planned.

Kevin Howllete and James Baker of Island Remote Imaging Solutions (IRIS) will deliver a brief presentation on the advancements in drone usage including photography, safety, thermal imaging, medical use and search and rescue.

The event has been organised in conjunction with Shop Carrickfergus and the Department for Communities.