Northern Ireland

New north Belfast business aims to help families ditch technology and learn through play together

Rory Kelly at his new business at Duncairn Gardens which gives families somewhere where they can play while learning together. Mr Kelly opened the doors of Merchants of Fun at the weekend. Picture by Hugh Russell
Rory Kelly at his new business at Duncairn Gardens which gives families somewhere where they can play while learning together. Mr Kelly opened the doors of Merchants of Fun at the weekend. Picture by Hugh Russell Rory Kelly at his new business at Duncairn Gardens which gives families somewhere where they can play while learning together. Mr Kelly opened the doors of Merchants of Fun at the weekend. Picture by Hugh Russell
By Marie Louise McConville

While most retail is struggling, one west Belfast man has bravely opened a new toy store.

Rory Kelly has opened Merchants of Fun at North City Business Centre in north Belfast.

The shop sells card games and board games "from all around the world", which can help children learn through play.

Formerly employed in the technology sector, the 41-year-old said the "main reason" he left was "because I seen kids becoming overly reliant on technology and what I am trying to do is bring products to families and schools that offer quick learning by stealth, without the kids realising it".

Mr Kelly, a father of two said: "There's so many families out there that are struggling in terms of home schooling and we have games that can help make that fun.

"I have scoured the planet to find the best products that are educational but also lots of fun for families to play".