Fond memories of Crievagh Primary School recalled

This event was organised by the newly formed parents’ support group for the school and took the theme of ‘school reunion’.

The response from past pupils, staff and associates of the school was overwhelming with 200 people attending on the night and many more sending their regards.

People travelled from all parts to attend, with guests arriving from Wicklow, various parts of the UK and even Germany.

The evening kicked off with a champagne reception sponsored by Brian Morris, chairman of the association and proprietor of The Glenavon where guests had the opportunity to browse through old photos and artefacts from the school dating back to the 1930s while listening to tunes from the Donald Canavan traditional group.

MC and support group member Adrian McCaughey ensured the night ran smoothly and paid tribute to principals past and presnet.

Entertainment on the night was provided by past pupils of the school, The Slevin Brothers and their band Hype.

The night provided a wonderful opportunity for people to meet with old friends and reminisce about their school days.

A former pupil, Dan Neeson, recited a remarkable self penned poem about the history of the school and ignited many memories for those attending.

Cllr Sam Glasgow paid tribute to the school and recalled his fondest memories of being a pupil at Crievagh while Colin McElroy, chairperson of the Board of Governors and Rev Paddy Hughes both paid tribute to the work of the present staff and spoke of their pleasure to be assictaied with the school.

Current principal, Miss Hughes, then paid tribute to the Friends of Crievagh for their vision and support to the school and the remarkable effort all the members had put in to organise such a wonderful night.

An amazing sum of 3,501 was raised on the night which will be used to develop the school’s outdoor play area

Crievagh PS is in a beautiful location just outside Cookstown and draws pupils from Cookstown and the surrounding area. It’s a thriving rural school with a recent new build and a strong family ethos with high levels of achievement.

Raffle winners:

Door prize - flatscreen TV donated by PH Appliances - Patricia Devlin, Ardboe.

Slieve Russell voucher donated by Quinn Group - Teresa Devlin, Coagh.

Painting by Peter Mooney - Madonna McKenna, Aughrim, Co WIcklow.

Case of wine donated by James McCabe - Michelle Herron, Coalisland.

Greenvale Hotel meal voucher - Dehlia Morris, Cookstown.

Glenavon meal voucher - Clare Neeson, Lissan.

Floral display donated by Stephen Mallon - Caroline Donaghey, Lissan.

Tullylagan meal voucher - Mary Murphy, Cookstown.

Hair and beauty voucher donated by Cut Above - Bridget McNally, Cookstown.

10 - Brian Herron, Coalisland.