The project is a huge boost for the Carntogher community and the result of the continuing hard work being carried out by Carntogher Community Association in developing the area. The project secured a total of £12,566.91 and was part financed by the European Union through the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by the Northern Ireland Rural Development Council (Rural Retail Support Programme), Foras na Gaeilge, Magherafelt Area Partnership and group contribution.

The shop provides a unique experience for anyone who is looking for that something a little bit different. The ethos of the shop is to provide traditional values in a contemporary setting.

The shop showcases a wide range of distinctive ceramics, jewellery, glasswear, candles, handmade cards, original artworks, silk paintings, traditional CD’s and gifts. You will also find a wide selection of books in both English & Irish catering for all tastes and budgets.

Speaking at the opening Teresa Canavan Northern Ireland Rural Development Council commented ‘The Rural Retail Support Programme which this project is funded under was developed by RDC with funding from the EU Peace II and International Fund for Ireland. It was designed to support the retention of retail services in rural areas and this project is an excellent example of doing just that.

Not only has the Carntogher Community Association sought to maintain a Post Office provision locally but also created An Carn Siopa, placing an emphasis on local crafts and products.

The fact that both are housed within the community resource setting makes the project somewhat unique and an example of good practice for other communities to learn from. We wish the group every success with the project.”

Sean Kerr from Magherafelt Area Partnership spoke of his “delighted to work with Carntogher Community Association on this initiative” adding “ how important the project is in allowing local people to showcase their talents through the shop.”

Chairman of Magherafelt District Council Ian Milne also attended the event and praised the efforts of the local community Association in bringing yet another innovative project to the Carntogher area. Proceedings were drawn to a close with Claire Doherty (Centre Manager – An Carn) thanked everyone involved in the setting up of the shop, all those who volunteered their free time to help and the local community for their support since opening in December.

On Saturday, a number of craft workshops and demonstrations took place as part of the family craft day organised to mark the official opening. The event attracted a large amount of interest from the local community and they were not to be disappointed. Brendan Farren showed off his basket weaving skills and Deirdre Eastwood (The Potting Shed) entertained the visitors with her pottery skills. For the children, Steven Noonan (Carn Media Ltd) carried out animation workshops and Aoife Ní Fhlannagáin amused the kids with her tales in both Irish and English.

An Carn Siopa is a unique shopping experience. So why not call in and browse around the shop – take time out in the coffee corner to enjoy delicious homemade bread, scones, pastries and soup and relax and enjoy the An Carn Siopa experience.