Christmas is camán and Na Magha is getting ready

The Gaels of Na Magha hurling and camogie club have launched their annual Christmas Charity Appeal and are asking the generous Derry community for help.

Speaking to Derry Now, Gearalt Ó Mianáin, the club’s fundraising officer said all monies collected would go to three very deserving  local charities.

“This year we have picked Macmillan Cancer Support, Claude’s Cafe Christmas Dinners and St Vincent de Paul, all of whom do fantastic work in the Derry area.

“Donations can be made at training sessions; at St Brigid’s College / Coláiste Bhríde on Saturday, December 10, during the Underage presentation; by Paypal to breandanquigley@hotmail.co.uk quoting Nollaig22; and by contacting me on: 078 85434634. 

“Last year Na Magha raised £1,050 and the year before that we raised £800. We have been supporting St Vincent de Paul for six years now. 

“Na Magha is a very caring club and we always try to help the local community, especially in these hard times.”

Na Magha member, Cathy Harkin, said the club was not just about hurling and camogie.

She added: “Na Magha is about building friendships and taking care of everyone in the community. 

“It was Catherine Shiels and Jacqueline Rankin who first came up with the annual Christmas Charity Appeal. Back in the day it began with toy donations. 

“Declan Moore from Claude’s Café in the town sponsors one of our pitch side advertising boards but, more importantly, he does amazing work for the people of Derry and the North West. 

“Na Magha also offers keep fit classes, which are facilitated by Inclusively Fit. All abilities are welcome at our hurling and camogie club,” smiled Cathy.