Karen retains post as group chairwoman

Karen retains post as group chairwoman

2 September 2020

THE Rowallane and Slieve Croob Twinning Group has reappointed Karen Patterson as its chairwoman.

Her appointment was confirmed at the group’s virtual annual meeting held last week, with Lawrence Murphy appointed as her deputy.

The other office bearers are Laura Patterson (treasurer), Raymond Cochrane (assistant treasurer), Laurence Clarke (secretary) and Susan Welsh (assistant secretary). David Stuart was appointed as head of the Lamorlaye sub-group.

Rowallane councillor Robert Burgess — who is a member of the twinning group — praised its work over the past 12 months, with a number of recent activities curtailed as a result of coronavirus.

He is to liaise with Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s economic development officials to move forward the twinning group’s international partnership project, while efforts are to be made to see if the twinning group can secure Covid 19 funding.

The cross-community group’s members includes professionals from a range of sectors, including

health, education and help organise healthy activities and events, including running, walking, rambling, horse riding, bowling, cycling, football, table tennis and badminton.

Key aims of the group art to bring the young and old together from the two main traditions and others to engage in leisure activities including arts and crafts, dance, music, and gardening. 

There is also an emphasis on shared heritage, cultural diversity, history and language with the group’s Celtic partners and to establish new relationships with local groups and others.

Last week’s election of office bearers was conducted by Cllr Burgess and it was suggested by Mr Stuart that the same committee should remain in place for the next 12 months with the proposal agreed.

Cllr Burgess also thanked everyone in the Rowallane and Slieve Croob Community Group for all their efforts and congratulated them on their fundraising efforts for charity.

The twinning group’s next scheduled meeting will be held on Thursday, September 24, either via Zoom or at Ballynahinch Market House.