**LURGANVILLE AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION** 

## **CHAIRMANS REPORT 2022-23** 

Well 2022-23 has certainly been a very busy and successful year for our group. We hoped last year as it was our 10-year anniversary that we could organize 10 events and ou�ngs, but we exceeded our expecta�ons by having at least one ac�vity every month. 

Throughout the year, we organized several day trips. From Carlingford, Ulster Folk Park Cultra, Newcastle, Mount Stewart, the Abbey Centre for Christmas shopping, Christmas dinner at the Ashburn Hotel and lastly a tour of Crumlin Rd Gaol, followed with a meal in the Titanic Hotel. 

chance for people who are unable to join us on bus trips to come together. Many thanks to the commi�ee members and volunteers for their assistance with table setups and for those who helped with the cleanup. 

Fortunately, we were again able to con�nue with our Christmas and Easter vegetable and grocery bag drop distribu�ons within the community. Once again, many thanks to the volunteers who helped shop, pack and deliver these supplies. 

Thanks to Hillsborough Castle Gardens Community Access Scheme, we were able to bring up to 20 people to celebrate their Halloween, St. Patrick's Day, and Easter events. We also had a tour of the Walled Gardens and were given the opportunity to a�end a session on object handling, and a card making workshop. Over 50 people joined us last July for a�ernoon tea and a walk round the gardens to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee. 

Some members from our associa�on have a�ended training and informa�on sessions either in person or via Zoom.  I would like thank Diane from TADA and Victoria from LCCC for these opportuni�es. 

Sadly, during this year, we also had the loss of our commi�ee member, Robbie McWilliams.  He rarely missed any of our events and its strange to see William and Joe going about without him. Robbie is deeply missed by us all. 

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge Ursula, our secretary, who was recently recognised as an Honorary Professor at Queens University and was awarded an MBE. Ursula's accomplishments reflect her excep�onal dedica�on both within her occupa�on and the community, we are proud to have her as part of our associa�on. 

I also want to men�on Pauline who only joined our commi�ee last year but was recently made Vice Chair. Thank you for a�ending various events with me this year, your company was much appreciated. 

Lastly, I want to extend a special thanks to Maire, our treasurer, for her diligent work in managing our finances. Most of the ac�vi�es men�oned were only possible because of the hours she spent filling in grant forms.  Her efforts have played a crucial role in our achievements, and we are grateful for her dedica�on. 

And also, the Lurganville community who con�nue to support us. 

Thank You