As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Fermanagh Trust is honouring 30 remarkable individuals whose commitment to their communities has made a lasting difference. Each awardee receives a £1,000 bursary to benefit the organisation they’re involved with. A gift that celebrates their service while investing in the future.
Our latest recipient is Annie McGovern, whose more than 80 years of life have been defined by dedication to the people of Kinawley and beyond. From the Kinawley Youth Band to the heart of the kitchen in the Community Hall, Annie has been a constant presence. Organising, guiding, fundraising and quietly ensuring that everything runs as it should.
Fermanagh Civic Honour recipient Annie McGovern
Annie’s volunteering journey began in the 1980s when her own children joined the Kinawley Youth Band. “We had about 50 children in the band, mostly girls because there was no girls’ football team then. It gave them something to do,” she recalls. “We played music and did marching band events, St Patrick’s Day in Armagh every year, plus sporting events.”
From weekly Saturday practices in the old school to trips as far afield as Scarborough, Kerry and across Ireland, Annie was part of the “Band Mammies”. A core group of women who kept things running behind the scenes. “We were the backbone, keeping things going, organising, looking out for the kids and making sure everyone was safe. We made so many friendships.”
In 2008, Annie became a founding member of the Kinawley Community Hall Association, helping turn “just a field” into a vibrant hub. “A committee was formed and I said I’d help out,” she says modestly. As treasurer from day one, she spearheaded fundraising, selling commemorative bricks, running bingo nights, and organising concerts in the Slieve Russell Hotel. “The community really got behind it,” she says. “Seeing the first sod cut was a huge achievement for the whole team.”
Today, she still manages the books and remains a guiding hand for other volunteers. “People look to me to make sure we’re doing things the right way,” she admits with a laugh. Her catering experience from 40 years working in Blake’s Bar and Restaurant in Derrylin is still put to good use, especially when preparing funeral teas in the hall. “It’s a big space, no rush to go home. It’s a community space, not a drinking space. There’s always something going on, social dances every month, events that bring people together. Long may it continue.”
Annie’s service extends far beyond the hall. Since 2000 she’s been part of the Kinawley Apostolic Group and in 2013 she joined the St Vincent de Paul Kinawley branch after the parish priest identified a need. She also volunteers weekly in the Barnlee charity shop in Derrylin. “It’s good to be active and out. It keeps the mind busy,” she says. “What else would I be doing all day, sitting watching TV?”
Looking back, Annie says volunteering has brought her as much as she’s given. “It’s had a big impact on my life. It gave me a social outlet, especially after my husband passed away. It’s a chance to use my background and skills to improve the community and a way to meet people. Thank God I have the strength to do it.”
Even as she notes changes over the years, “Not as many volunteer now. People need to be asked they don’t just come forward”, Annie continues to lead by example. Organised, pragmatic, and always ready to “shoot from the hip” and just get on with it, she remains a trusted figure in Kinawley life. Her Civic Honour Award is a fitting recognition for decades of care, leadership, and unwavering commitment.