Strabane landmark to celebrate 75th anniversary

ONE of Strabane's most recognisable landmarks has been spruced up ahead of a milestone anniversary.

The refurbishment of The Grotto site at Townsend Street has been completed ahead of its 75th anniversary which will be marked this evening (Wednesday), October 29, with a Rosary vigil.

A warm invitation is extended to the community to attend and bring a candle.

A Camus Parish spokesperson said: "Rosary at The Grotto in Strabane will be recited on Wednesday, October 29, at 6pm.

"This gathering to pray marks the 75th anniversary of the dedication of The Grotto.

"People are invited to gather to pray for and with each other, praying for the gift of hope into the lives of many people.

"So too, we think of those many people who, through the years, have stood and prayed at this grotto.

"We acknowledge with thanks, those people who have maintained, and continue to maintain The Grotto through the years. Please come along."

The opening of The Grotto, which was built by locals in 1950 under the guidance of Rev Michael McHugh CC, was a huge event with hundreds of locals turning out for the official opening and blessing.

It is built on the site of the old St John's Roman Catholic Church which was constructed in 1821 prior to the opening of the current Church of the Immaculate Conception in 1895 at Barrack Street.

Ahead of today's anniversary, a team of local volunteers, spearheaded by Fountain Street Community Development Association (FSCDA), have worked tirelessly to have the sacred space spruced up and in pristine condition.

That work has included repainting the walls, cleaning up the interior and surrounding exterior, and the erection the 14 stations of the cross on the back wall, which were manufactured and kindly donated by Paul Madden.

FSCDA extended thanks and appreciation to all who have volunteered their time to assist with the refurbishment.

"Without the great help and voluntary support of our local community we would be unable to maintain this sacred spot in our community which belongs to all the people of Strabane, those away from home and the many who have gone before us," a spokesperson said.

"This sacred spot in our community is always open to the public with the interpretation panels on the walls providing a short history of the Grotto since it was St John's Church in 1821 up until the construction of the present day Grotto in 1950 by the people of Strabane."