Walk in memory of late councillor Ann Bell

A FUNDRAISING walk raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society and in memory of the late SDLP councillor, Ann Bell has taken place.

Around 80 people undertook the recent 6k trek in Strabane which, so far, has managed to raise over £3,400. Also taking place on the day was a raffle with over 50 prizes on offer.

Linda Neeson (nee Bell), Cllr Bell’s youngest daughter, explains how the walk came about, while also paying tribute.

“We undertook the walk so that we could raise much-needed funds for a society which gave vital assistance to my mum when she became sick,” she said.

“And we wanted to give something back to a society which gave so much to our family since Mum’s diagnosis in 2017.

“Mum was a very well-known and loved figure around the town and in local politics for many years. She was a big part of Strabane’s fabric for a long time and worked extremely hard in her role as councillor for many years.

“We were all so proud of her as someone who proudly stuck up for her beliefs and for those she helped along the way.

“I discussed the idea with my sisters Violet and Maria in February about doing something for Mum’s birthday and they were all up for it, so I began organising. Everything came together very quickly; the three of us and my brother Richard all worked tirelessly to collect sponsorship money. One of my favourite things about doing this was hearing all the wonderful stories people told about Mum, great memories for us to cherish!”