The Fivemiletown Coronavirus Response Group recently hosted a dinner and get together to mark its efforts during the pandemic.

The hard-working group of volunteers were able to let their hair down for a social get-together on Friday, February 25 – almost two years to the day since the group was formed.

They gathered in Fivemiletown Royal British Legion for a four-course carvery meal and social get-together, which was enjoyed by all.

Group co-ordinator Iain Lendrum said: “We have tried to organise an event on a number of occasions but the pandemic waves kept coming, so it was never safe.

"I felt it was important to thank all the volunteers for their fantastic efforts during this past two years.

"We also wanted to thank all the partners who supported the volunteers as they carried out deliveries etc for the vulnerable in our community.”

Iain noted that it was poignant that the event was held in FMT Royal British Legion (RBL), which acted as the focal point for all the group’s activities.

FMT RBL was a hub for the communuity with the hall being used to co-ordinate the delivery of more than 3,000 meals to the elderly. It was also used for a food bank and deliveries for Mid Ulster District Council.

Iain wished to thank everyone in Fivemiletown for their support over the past two years, with a special mention to all of the businesses and community groups which supported the group financially.

The group was now ending its activities, and Iain himself is looking forward to returning to normal community activities such as his work in FMT RBL, and Kids R Us Cross-Community Playgroup.