BELFAST actor James Martin has accepted a new role as an ambassador for peace-building organisation Corrymeela.
The star of Oscar-winning short film An Irish Goodbye has been named an ambassador for the group's 'Shine a Light for Peace' campaign.
Founded in 1965 in Ballycastle, the Corrymeela Community is the north's oldest peace and reconciliation centre, and brings together around 7,500 people from marginalised communities each year to participate in events and retreats.
The Shine a Light for Peace campaign urges people to make donations this Christmas towards Corrymeela's vital work.
Mr Martin first visited Corrymella while a pupil at Harberton Special School in Belfast.
"I fell in love with Corrymeela, and all it stands for," he said, adding that he remains a regular visitor.
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"The Shine of Light project is now more important than ever, considering all the world-wide unrest."
Corrymeela’s executive director Tim Magowan said: "With increasing conflict in the wider world, and increased tensions locally, our Shine a Light campaign gives people in Northern Ireland and beyond an opportunity to bring some hope this Christmas.
"We are delighted that James is willing to share some of his star dust with us to inspire us all to contribute to a more peaceful world in 2024."
