On Wednesday 20th November 9 members of the AAfA camera club decided to take advantage of their free travel passes, and the extra Enterprise express train times, to go to the Belfast Christmas Market. On arrival in Belfast, after a very comfortable journey, most opted for the open-top bus tour of the city which was interesting, informative and very COLD!

After having lunch, and thawing out, in a nice warm cafe we ventured across the road to the market which had a distinctly continental air with a great variety of stalls, plenty of shopping and photo opportunities. We finished the day with a visit to one of Belfast’s oldest and best-preserved Victorian pubs, the Crown, a lovely spot. After another comfortable journey we arrived back in Donabate at 6.15pm with all happy and planning a lot more rail excursions.

Tuesday 10th December was the date for Active Age for Alls’ annual Christmas Carol fund raiser for St Francis Hospice to help to support the wonderful work that they do. It was very well attended and all enjoyed refreshments of home bakes, tea, coffee and non-alcoholic mulled wine. We were serenaded by the AAfA singing group led by Ed Mallarky, enjoyed a number from Willie Cahill and some rousing renditions from the marvellous Bright Sparks crèche children.

Many thanks to all the local businesses and individuals who donated items for the raffle, there were over 50 so the draw took quite a while; we managed to raise over €1,000 so well done to all !

Dates for the Diary (2025): January 6th & 7th: online registration for AAfA members; 8th & 9th Jan – walk in membership and registration in DPCC; Friday Jan 17th: AGM; Monday Jan 20th: Classes commence for the Spring term.