Council Chair officially opens Around the Meadow Reminiscence Trail

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s “Around the Meadow” Reminiscence Trail at Broadmeadow, Enniskillen was officially opened by the Chair of the Council, Councillor Errol Thompson on Wednesday 28 July 2021.

The trail encompasses the existing pathway at the Broadmeadow which links Enniskillen Castle and Fermanagh Lakeland Forum and comprises a series of old photographs and accompanying text which will serve as conversation starters for those using the trail.

Speaking at the opening of the Around the Meadow reminiscence Trail, Councillor Thompson said;

“The Broadmeadow here in Enniskillen is a wonderful open space, an oasis of calm in a busy town in the shadow of the historic Enniskillen Castle and with excellent parking and seating along the walk it is a very popular destination in the town.

The Reminiscence Trail will undoubtedly encourage people of all ages to use this pathway, enjoy the fresh air and indulge in a little bit of outdoor socialising which is very important in these very difficult times.”

The “Around the Meadow” Reminiscence Trail was funded by the Department for Communities through its Access and Inclusion fund.

Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey, said “My Department leads on the Executive’s Active Ageing Strategy which promotes Age Friendly initiatives. I welcome this project from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council which sees the development of a pathway and signage for older people, people with dementia and disabled people that will help them to enjoy fresh air, exercise and socialising.

“The project is an example of DfC’s work to promote social inclusion in partnership with councils and the voluntary and community sector.

Speaking about the trail, Ethel Oldcroft, Director, South West Age Partnership, said

“One of the signs asks what scents or smells you remember.

The United Bakery stood where the telecom building is today.  I remember the aroma of freshly baked bread everyday.  It would make you hungry, we as children would go into the baker and watch the bakers knead the dough cut into tins and into the ovens to bake.  We always came out with a Paris bun each.”

An exhibition to accompany the Around the Meadow reminiscence trail is currently on display at the museum.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to encouraging and enabling older people to lead more independent, engaged and socially connected lives. “Around the Meadow” Reminiscence Trail is part of Fermanagh Omagh District Council Age Friendly Strategy to allow older people to lead more independent, engaged and socially connected lives.

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