Garvagh & District Development Association

Formed in September 1995, G&DDA provides a neutral venue for the local community to enjoy group activities (from senior citizens’ club, men’s shed and women’s group to weekly art classes and harp school) and offers small businesses space for a community café and meeting rooms.  Working with local author, Anne McMaster, the Association intended to produce a history of a horse-drawn caravan currently owned by local historian, Wilbert Patterson.  Hoping to preserve recorded conversations with the previous owner and document life in a horse-drawn caravan based in the Garvagh area, the Association sought help with production costs.  The Secretary believed the publication would prove a valuable asset to the community.  And, with this in mind, the Committee agreed a grant of £900 from the Drapers’ Company Fund.  The Committee also hoped proceeds from the sale of the book might be returned to the community.