Book on Belfast gives haunts of famous

A new tourism publication promoting what makes Belfast special for a series of local celebrities has been published.

A new tourism publication promoting what makes Belfast special for a series of local celebrities has been published.

My Belfast has been produced by the city council and features the favourite haunts of well-known people born in Belfast and others with strong connections to the city.

Former world boxing champion Barry McGuigan was present at City Hall for the formal launch of the book.

"I'm just so pleased to be here at this stunning building which welcomed me home after winning the world title back in June 1985," he said.

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He said the city held a special place in his heart, "not least because 75,000 people gathered here to welcome me home that day. It was incredible, and that is why I always think of Belfast as my spiritual home."

McGuigan was welcomed back to City Hall by Michael Browne, chairman of Belfast City Council's development department.

"This unique guide is further proof of the wealth of tourism treasures we have right here on our doorstep," he said.

Referring to the book's title, he said: "The city is actually everyone's Belfast with so much to offer locals and visitors. We have so much to be proud about in this fantastic city.

"Hopefully this latest tourism publication will help spread the message even further."

Kenneth Branagh, Katie Melua, James Galway, Ciarán Hinds, Barry Douglas and Simon Callow are among the personalities who contributed.

Belfast now draws in more than six million visitors a year, contributing £285 million (€423 million) to the economy and supporting 16,000 full-time jobs.

The book is freely available at tourism offices and libraries.