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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Derry community worker celebrates 50 years of 'selfless devotion' to Fountain estate

A Derry community worker has been congratulated for marking 50-years of invaluable contributions to the Fountain estate in Derry.

Jeanette Warke has long campaigned for better facilities and opportunities for the area and is also marking 50-years since the Cathedral Youth Centre.

The Fountain, which is predominantly made up of a protestant and unionist community, is an enclave in the mainly catholic and nationalist cityside of Derry.

Read more: Nicola Coughlan set to auction Derry Girls memorabilia for charity

Last year, a newly refurbished community centre was opened in December 2021 worth an estimated £600,000 - allowing community workers to continue the vitally good work happening there.

Opened in 1972, the centre was established by the late David Warke and the then Dean of Derry George Good during what was the worst year of the Troubles. It has since proved an essential centre for numerous generations.

Speaking to the BBC's Mark Patterson programme on Friday, Ms Warke said she had "tried her best" to serve her community over the years.

She said: "I love [community work]. I am dedicated to my work and people would ask me if I am retiring but I don't really want to. I have too much to do here yet.

"I can see great things here for many years to come."

Mayor of Derry - and Jeanette's son - Graham Warke is set to host a special private reception on Friday night to make the special occasion.

He said: "I am delighted to be able to host a private reception this evening for Jeanette Warke who has dedicated 50 years to building bridges and helping others within the Fountain Community.

"Her work within the community sector at the Cathedral Youth Club has been invaluable, bringing people together and providing support and assistance where it's needed most.

"I know I speak for everyone in the Fountain area and beyond when I pay tribute to her remarkable, selfless and devoted work."

Read more: Woman married 53-years 'forced to sell wedding rings' to buy oil

Read more: Council release statement as Galliagh Community Centre works are completed

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