Rouskey's Bridie honoured with 'Good Neighbour Award' as Tyrone shines at Make a Difference Awards

THE warmth, generosity, and community spirit of rural Tyrone took centre stage this week as Rouskey’s very own Bridie McCullagh was named the winner of the prestigious 'Good Neighbour Award' at the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards on Friday.

The day culminated in a surprise party at the Rouskey Community Centre, where Bridie was surrounded by friends, family, and community members from far and wide. She extended special thanks to Dr Kelly, Respiratory Consultant, and the Gortin Medical staff for their care, which enabled her to participate in this event.

Gortin-native Bridie, a much-loved member of the Rouskey Community and Development Association, has long been the beating heart of her local area - organising everything from home-cooked meals for those unable to get out, to training sessions, social events, and support networks for people living with health challenges.

Surrounded by friends, family, and neighbours at a surprise party in Rouskey Community Centre, Bridie described herself as “honoured” by the award but was quick to say the recognition was one for “the whole community in Rouskey, who always rally together when needed.”

“I can organise everything from the phone - I love getting things done,” Bridie said with her trademark positivity.

“Volunteer work helps me a lot and I have a great group of volunteers around me. Living in the country doesn’t stop us from helping others - in fact, it brings us closer together. It’s good for people like me with long-term health needs, too, because it gives us something to focus on. Rural communities have a special spirit - we know how important it is to stand up and get things done.”

Despite her own health challenges, Bridie remains committed to helping others, particularly those with respiratory conditions. She is already planning a Respiratory Awareness Day in Rouskey, with guest speakers and information to support local people and their families.

The impact of Bridie’s efforts has been deeply felt in her community and beyond.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council chairperson, Cllr Barry McElduff, praised her “exceptional commitment and inspirational example of neighbourliness,” while countless friends and supporters expressed their gratitude for her warmth and tireless energy.

While Bridie’s triumph was a standout moment, she was not the only Tyrone success story. The county was particularly well represented among the winners, underlining the strength of its community spirit.

l Support 2gether, Omagh - Winner of the Community Group Award for its life-saving support to mothers facing antenatal and postnatal depression and anxiety.

l Lucy McMullan, Caledon Open Door Club - Winner of the Volunteer Award. At 91, Lucy continues to run the club she has led for more than 40 years, providing music, meals, and companionship for older people.

l Des Keenan, Cookstown - Winner of the Fundraiser Award. Des has spent more than four decades raising money and building care services, and at 80, continues his mission despite living with Parkinson’s.

These Tyrone winners joined others from across Northern Ireland - from a therapy dog in Fermanagh to a young environmental activist in Derry - in being celebrated live on BBC Radio Ulster’s Vinny and Cate Show at BBC Blackstaff Studios in Belfast.

This is the first year the BBC Make a Difference Awards have spanned the whole UK, shining a light on the “unsung heroes” whose everyday acts of kindness change lives. For Tyrone, the recognition of Bridie, Lucy, Des, and Support 2gether has energised local communities, showing the vital role rural people and groups play in keeping traditions alive, offering support in times of need, and building brighter futures.

Bridie’s success is more than an individual achievement - it is a symbol of what can be done when rural communities rally together. In Rouskey, and across Tyrone, her award has reminded everyone of the power of kindness, compassion, and neighbourliness to bring people together and make a lasting difference.