Gallow’s Hill celebrates return of residents’ association

GALLOW’S Hill is one of the oldest parks in Omagh, and many of its residents have lived in it since the day they were born.

As such, ‘The Hill’ has always been a place of great community spirit, neighbourliness and friendship.

However, in recent years, one of the fundamental features of the park vanished when the residents’ association shut down.

Thankfully, though, much to the delight of those who call ‘The Hill’ home, the old ways have been restored and members of the resurrected institution are again meeting once-a-week in Gallow’s Hill Community House.

Last Wednesday, as the residents took their seats in the quaint two-story end house on ‘The Hill’, we heard about the busy spring and summer they have ahead.

Speaking during the first coffee morning, which runs every week from 11am to 12noon, was Jim Sharkey, chairman of Gallow’s Hill Residents’ Association.

“The coffee mornings have been a great success, with approximately 10-to-12 residents coming along every Wednesday to chat, enjoy a cup of tea and a scone and finish off the morning with a game of bingo,” began Jim.

“We held a Christmas lunch here at the community house and are planning an afternoon tea party after Easter and more events over the spring and summer and hopefully a few day trips as well.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to two of our dedicated committee members, Norrie and Attracta, who volunteer making the tea and making sure there are fresh scones and treats for the residents each week.”

Jim added, “We also have other activities during the week, including painting classes and chair exercises, planting spring bulbs in window boxes and we hope to introduce a photography class in the coming weeks.”

Eileen, who never misses the weekly coffee morning, said, “This group means the world to all of us, as we get the opportunity to catch up with our neighbours every week and enjoy the friendships and chats.

“We live on our own, so this might be the only time we see other people and it is invaluable.

“Thank you to the members of the Gallow’s Hill Residents’ Association for organising the activities, and, in particular, the coffee mornings.

“Norrie and Attracta always have the kettle on when we arrive and we sit down together and chat away. This is such an important part of our week, and some of us participate in the other activities as well, which are excellent. We hope it will continue to grow and develop in the future.”