The relocation of Tirkane Post Office within An Carn is yet another milestone within Carntogher Community Associations plans to develop the area and is largely due to the voluntary effort by the board of directors who have worked tirelessly to ensure that funding is in place.

Speaking at the event director of Carntogher Community Association Niall O’Kane thanked all those who where involved in the relocation “especially Mrs Kathleen McKenna who helped greatly with the smooth change over and Eugene McMahon of Post Office Limited.” He added “The Association is delighted to have been able to become involved in this project and ensure the continued delivery of Post Office services in our rural community”. A painting by local artist Claire Glass was presented to Mrs McKenna as a token of the Associations appreciation.

Also speaking at the opening Chairman of Magherafelt District Council Sean Kerr, welcomed “this development especially at a time when rural communities are under threat from planning policies. The re-location of this Post Office in these wonderful new premises is a testament to the community spirit in this area. It comes as the culmination of many years of tireless work and endeavour by Carntogher Community Association.”

Post Office Limited representative Eugene McMahon added, “I am delighted to be here today to see Tirkane Post Office officially open at An Carn. All too often in today’s society rural post offices have to close and its great to see that smaller communities are fighting back and ensuring these services remain in their community.”

Tirkane Post Office will offer a wide range of valued and trusted Post office services. However there will also be an opportunity for all customers to complete their business in both English and Irish if they so wish.

Also for sale on a daily basis is a selection of homemade bread, jam, stationary and handcrafted bilingual cards and its sure to attract local people and those from surrounding areas. Plans are well advanced to offer a wide range of local produce and cultural items and anyone interested in having produce sold from Tirkane Post Office is welcome to contact Claire on 028 7954 9978. Opening hours are Mon, Tues, Thurs 9am – 5pm Fridays 9am – 12.30pm Closed Wednesdays & Saturdays.