Making the headlines in the April 1, 2004 of the Newry Reporter…
- The Shopmobility feature which had been operating within the Buttercrane Shopping Centre for five years was facing an uncertain future as it prepared to lose its main source of funding.
- Four mums from the Newry area joined forces to form a parent support group called Children First. It aimed to provide help and support to carers and parents of children with disabilities.
- There was condemnation of vandalism to windows at Bessbrook Community Centre, with the damage costing an estimated £600.
- Newpoint Players were awarded the highest accolade – the Premier Prize – at the 52nd Newry Drama Festival with their production of Marina Carr’s ‘Portia Coughlan’.
- In sport, Down’s former All-Ireland winning boss, Pete McGrath, was named as the new Irish International Rules boss.
- And there was sadness at the sudden passing of popular referee, Oliver Donnelly.
Can you spot anyone you know within our gallery of pictures?
1. Retro Reporter
Jerrettspass Community held a charity variety auction in 2004 which raised £2,316 for the Downs Syndrome Association NI. Donna Lynch, the Association's Regional Manager, is pictured (right) accepting the cheque. Also pictured are (L-R) Veronica and Jim McAleer, Auctioneers for the event, Barbara McCartney, parent and member of the Downs Syndrome Association; and Isobel Reid, organiser. Photo: Newry Reporter
2. Retro Reporter
The founder parents of Children First, from left, Hazel McWall with David, Claire Lively and Megan, Marian Crossey with Rachel, and Sheila Colgan with her son Gerard. Photo: Newry Reporter
3. Retro Reporter
Pictured presenting a cheque for £2,000 to Fiona Stephens of Southern Area Hospice Services are Syd Cully and staff of Moy Park. The money was raised at a recent raffle. Photo: Newry Reporter
4. Retro Reporter
Siobhan Kinney, Karen Convery and Tracey Coyle, who enjoyed the challenge of science day at St Mary's High School. Photo: Newry Reporter