Mary McGrory and Ruth Lynch at the tree which was planted by Margaret Kelly, a Donagh Development Association committee member who recently passed away. They plan to use the decorate the tree and use it as the village Christmas tree in years to come RMG48
THE people of Donagh have been urged to help keep the area’s strong sense of community spirit alive and well for the next generation.
Last week the village said goodbye to one of the pillars of the local community, with the sad passing of Margaret Kelly.
Former principal of St Joseph’s PS, and a founding member of both the village youth club and Donagh Development Association, Mrs Kelly was instrumental in setting up the Millennium Hall, as well as being a strong supporter of many other local projects down through the decades.
Vice-chairman of Donagh Development, Ruth Lynch, said:
“Mrs Kelly had great community spirit and was a hard worker. She was one of our founding members, and was chair for many years.”
Secretary Pauline O’Reilly added: “We have big shoes to fill. Mrs Kelly had her finger in many pies, and we have so much to thank her for.”
The Development Association are currently in the midst of organising their annual summer festival, pulling off a coup this year by attracting well known radio DJ and entertainer Hugo Duncan for the event.
Mr Duncan will be broadcasting his Radio Ulster show live from the Millennium Hall on Thursday, June 30, kicking off the four day festival. This year’s summer festival, which has been going now for around 10 years, will also include the usual favourites such as family fun activities and the annual duck race.
Donagh Development also host festivities at Easter, Halloween and Christmas, while the Millennium Hall is used throughout the year by a wide range of local groups.
Ms O’Reilly said the current committee were simply continuing on the strong tradition set down by Mrs Kelly and others.
“There were great club leaders when we were younger, now that we’re the adults we want our children to have what we had,” she said. “We are trying our best to continue that tradition, that’s the main influence behind the work we do.”
As Ms Lynch pointed out, though, while the group get a lot of volunteer help during events such as the summer festival, the committee are always seeking new blood to keep things fresh.
“New people bring new ideas and new enthusiasm,” she said.
“We welcome new members of all ages and abilities, everyone brings new ideas.
Joining the committee is a chance to give something back to the community.
“It’s about keeping all this going, for everyone’s benefit.
Things can get stagnant if you don’t have new blood.”
Praising their current volunteers, Ms O’Reilly added:
“We couldn’t continue without the help of volunteers. Help is needed, though, to help keep this going for the sake of the children.
“It’s not that hard work. It’s enjoyable and you get a great sense of achievement from it.”
If you wish to join the committee, come along to any meeting, visit the Donagh Development Information Facebook page, or call Ms O’Reilly on 67721897.
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