TC/1302

County' continues its centenary celebrations

THE Tyrone County Hospital continued to celebrate its Centenary at two events - a Gala Dinner and a History Symposium.
UTV presenters Lynda Bryans and Mike Nesbitt were comperes for the Gala Dinner in the Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh.
Approximately 140 guests were treated to entertainment by a number of local artistes, including Declan Forde, Crescendo, Knotty Pine and Tom Sweeney
The organising committee also welcomed the support of the Christian Brothers Grammar School's Young Enterprise Company, "Millennium', who organised the production of commemorative mugs, which were presented to those attending the Gala Night.
Mrs. Bernie McCrory paid tribute to the work of these pupils and their teachers. Also assisting in the organisation of the evening's entertainment, were Graduate management trainees from the University of Ulster.
A total of £1,000 was raised through the profits from the sale of entrance tickets, and through a prize draw. A cheque was presented by Lynda Bryans and Mike Nesbitt to two of those injured in the Omagh bomb, who received it on behalf of the Omagh Fund.
Meanwhile, around 150 people attended the centenary History Symposium.
Those in attendance listened to a number of speakers who spoke on a variety of subjects, including, the history of Omagh and the Tyrone County Hospital, the medical and social developments in Omagh over the last 100 years, the evolution of public transport in West Tyrone since 1852 and the development of Nephrology (Renal Services) in Northern Ireland.
A break for refreshments brought another slice of history for those attending the Symposium - recipes used were from the turn of the century, and guests were served by staff dressed in period costume.
In appreciation of their time and contribution to the hospitals centenary celebrations, the Trust's Chairman Mr. Richard Scott presented a small gift to each of the speakers - Dr. John Maginness, Dr. Haldane Mitchell, Mr. Tom Wilmot, Dr. Peter Garrett, Professor Mary McGeown, Mr. Joe Curran and Dr John Fleetwood.
The centenary committee has thanked all those involved in organising the dinner and symposium.
Particular thanks goes to the pupils of the Christian Brothers Grammar School, Graduate management trainees from the University of Ulster, the speakers at the symposium, the various artistes and Lynda Bryans and Mike Nesbitt, who all gave of their time free of charge.
A programme of events continues to be planned to help staff, past and present, and the local community to celebrate the 'County's' centenary
Details of these will be released, but should anyone wish to receive a copy of the programme, they can contact Mary McGinn, at the Tyrone County Hospital. 01662 245211, ext. 2100/2292.