In pictures: Celebration of  Cecil Frances Alexander at Fahan’s Old Rectory

A celebration of the life and work of poet and hymnist Cecil Frances Alexander was attended by over 80 people last Saturday night in Fahan’s Old Rectory. 

Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery of photographs by Andy Smith

Cecil Frances Alexander, who wrote the hymns All Things Bright and Beautiful and Once in Royal David’s City, lived in Fahan from 1855 to 1860 with her husband William Alexander and their young family before moving to Derry.

An evening with Cecil Frances Alexander, organised by the Churches’ Trust, featured a performance by The Henry Girls, a crochet square making workshop with textile artist Anna Stainsby from Buncrana, and a poetry recital hosted by  award winning journalist and author of Kathy Donaghy,

St. Columb's Cathedral in Derry loaned artefacts displayed by steering group member Bridgeen Rutherford in a mini museum, and Inishowen Carnival Group held a  light sculpture trail in the garden.

The event was hosted by Mrs Cecil Frances Alexander herself, performed by local actor Susie Garvey Williams. 

The organisers expressed their gratitude to the Dorrian Family who opened their home for the event in memory of the late Mrs Pat Dorrian. 

The event was funded by Peaceplus,managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, and supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council.

“Whenever we were writing this application we had great dreams for it, but my word, tonight has more than been a dream come true - it has just been amazing,” said Diana Rudd, Chairperson of the Churches Trust afterwards, as she thanked all those who helped organise the event.