THE Omagh Gardening Society has been recognised with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2025 – the highest honour a voluntary group can receive in the UK.
The crystal award and certificate was presented to the society on Saturday by Lord Lieutenant of County Tyrone Robert Scott and Vice Lord Lieutenant Frances Nolan during a special event at the Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh.
Founded in 1957, the society has played a major role in promoting gardening locally for nearly seven decades. Its annual programme includes expert-led talks, the popular Spring Show, garden visits and tours, competitions and long-running projects with local primary schools. These activities not only encourage interest in gardening, but also support a number of charities each year.
Volunteers from the society have also worked closely with groups such as the Show and Grow Group, helping people recovering from illness.
Talented Omagh girl writes a book to share her love of football
The society’s reputation extends far beyond Tyrone. It has hosted four World Daffodil Conventions – in 1979, 1996, 2006 and again this year – building strong links with daffodil enthusiasts across the world.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service was established in 2002 to mark the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and continues under King Charles III.
This year’s recipients include a wide range of volunteer groups from across the UK.
Society chairman Terry Haley said he was ‘delighted’ by the recognition.
“I want to thank all our members for their hard work, dedication and commitment in making the society so enjoyable for everyone,” he added.
Public Health Agency announces Covid vaccination arrangements
Omagh Gardening Society are now looking forward to welcoming Marie Staunton as a guest speaker at their next meeting on April 28 at 7.30pm in the Silverbirch Hotel who will give a talk entitled ‘Spring forward into Summer’.
A well-known horticulturist, Marie has many years experience teaching and inspiring gardeners all over Ireland.
After a very successful career as an international model, Marie followed her lifelong passion for plants and studied horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin. She went on to write a popular gardening column for the Irish Independent for many years, further establishing her reputation for accessible, practicel gardening advice.
Comments are closed.