Fermanagh and Omagh District Council's chairman has honoured a tug-of-war team for their world championship win.

Councillor John McClaughry hosted a civic reception for the Country Club Tug of War Team at the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen, in recognition of their victory in the World Indoor Tug of War 560kg Champions. 

The reception celebrated not only their championship win but also their silver medal wins in the Open 600kg and 640kg classes and their bronze medal win in the open 560kg class.

The Country Club, which comprises members from Kesh, Lisnarick, Irvinestown, Ballinamallard, Enniskillen, and Ballygawley, trains just outside Irvinestown.

The club, which was originally formed by local farmers, started competing at local festivals and events before moving on to the Northern Ireland Tug of War Association.

This progression allowed the team to compete on national and international stages, including the recent World Indoor Tug of War Championships in Sweden.

In his speech, Councillor McClaughry said: "In the Open 600kg and Open 640kg classes, you earned a place in the final where you faced strong teams from the Basque Countries of Spain.

"In the Open 560kg class you progressed through the Group stages before meeting another strong team from the Basque Countries of Spain in the semi-final.

"The Spanish won two straight ends to leave you playing for 3rd place against a French Team and you deservedly won a Bronze medal."

The highlight of their Swedish journey was the Closed 560kg class, where the team topped the group against competitors from the Basque region of Spain, France, Ireland, Scotland, and Chinese Taipei.

Their semi-final match against France secured them a place in the final against Chinese Taipei, which resulted in them being crowned back-to-back World Indoor Tug of War 560kg Champions.

Councillor McClaughry added: "This is a tremendous achievement which is testament to your commitment to training and your strong team ethics.

"You faced tough competition, however, your skills, determination and belief shone through to become World Champions as well as lifting medals in each of the other three classes you competed in.

"On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate you on your success at the World Indoor Tug of War Championships.

"You have done yourselves, your district and your country proud."