In Pictures: 104-year woman cuts ribbon to open new Donegal sports facilities

It was a proud day for the community of Creevy as 104-year-old Brigid McPhelim joined Minister Charlie McConalogue (FF) to cut the ribbon on the new floodlit astro turf pitch at Creevy Hub. Click on the arrows to see a gallery of photos by Philip Mulligan:

This achievement was the result of a very well supported fundraiser that saw more than 80 participants raise €161,000 in a 100k charity cycle, and it part of a wider plan to develop facilities for the primary school and wider community. 

The opening ceremony took place on Friday, March 6, with pupils from Creevy NS in attendance and in full voice.

A spokesperson for Creevy Hub said it was a monumental day for the community and a testament to the hard work of everyone involved.

“It's hard to put into words the reaction to the official opening of Creevy Hub Astro Turf Pitch,” the spokesperson said in a post on the Creevy Hub Facebook page.  

“The weather was on our side as we watched with joy and pride, the events around us. It was incredible to watch old and young friends catch up, have a chat and a laugh as we all celebrated together! 

“We were beautifully entertained by the students of Creevy NS who sang their hearts out for us. They were fresh off the stage of the SSE Arena last weekend at the Peace Proms! Sensational! 

“It was a wonderful day, and we can't wait for Phase 2!”

Minister Charlie McConalogue said: “It was a day of celebration and excitement for Creevy NS, the town of Ballyshannon and south Donegal with the official opening of Creevy Activity Hub's fantastic new floodlit Astro turf pitch.

“This is a development built by the community for the community, with assistance from government funding. The project was allocated €178,564 under the 2023 Sports Capital Programme and €200,000 through the 2023-2027 Leader Programme. 

“And a remarkable €161,000 was raised through a 100K charity cycle held in March, 2025 - the fundraiser saw 83 cyclists take part.

“Creevy Activity Hub is a brilliant example of what can be achieved by a community when it comes together with a purpose and a vision. 

“The new state-of-the-art pitch will serve numerous teams and clubs for generations to come. 

Congratulations and well done to everyone involved.”

Cllr Micheál Naughton (FF) said: “I was delighted to attend with Minister Charlie Mc Conalogue TD  at the opening of the Creevy Hub today. Well done to all the staff and committee in getting this project to this stage. It will be a huge asset to the school and the local community.”