Community events in and around Portadown to enlighten and entertain
A rich blend of community events continues to enrich the lives of people in and around the Portadown area.
Tullyroan and Cranagill Young at Heart Club
Ian Bothwell from Crossfire Trust was the guest speaker at the latest monthly meeting of the Tullyroan and Cranagill Young at Heart Club.
Crossfire Trust is a registered charity which cares for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the people, primarily in south Armagh.
The Trust was established in 1984 by four trustees who wanted to develop further the links Ian had made in the area since 1978.
Ian spoke to the Young at Heart Club members about the work of the Crossfire Trust, including Darkley House near Keady which was purchased in 1987. He also outlined work to create units for homeless people, the purchase of the Bank of Ireland building in Crossmaglen for the setting up of a Community Hub. Amongst many other services, a charity shop is well supported and the food bank is much appreciated by local people.
In June 2012, Ian Bothwell was recognised for 30 years of service to the people of south Armagh, in being awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
South Lough Neagh Historical Society
Renowned craftsperson Deborah White is to be the guest speaker at the March meeting of the South Lough Neagh Historical Society.
Deborah is an expert on the history of linen and woven and printed textiles, along with the linen industry in Ireland. Her 30-year career includes weaving for royalty and world leaders.
Deborah was the subject of a BBC documentary, ‘The Warp. the Weft and the Weaver’, which told the story of her five-year project to 200-year-old Jacquard loom back to life.
In November, the Ulster University lecturer was announced as the winner of the 2025 NI Maker of the Year Award which celebrates heritage craftspeople.
Everyone is welcome to go along to hear Deborah at 8pm on Monday, March 2 in Maghery Community Hall.
Meanwhile, at the society’s February meeting, members learned about the customs of weaving and St Brigid's Crosses from Norah McCorry and had the opportunity to try making their own crosses.
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