THE Carrybridge Lakeside Lodge, Lisbellaw is celebrating its 20th anniversary this Saturday with a step back intime to the 90s.

‘Back to the Nineties’ will kick off at 8pm with a 90s dress code optional.

Live music will also be provided by local blues band ‘Sidewalk Boogie’ and various impromptu sessions will take place through out the evening by local musicians.

In September 1994 Colin and Audrey Beattie bought over the Carrybridge Hotel from Mervyn Wallace the previous owner.

September 1994 was also a poignant date with the announcement of the ceasefire in Northern Ireland.

The Carrybridge Hotel and Marina came into its own as a small family run hotel on the shores of Lough Erne.

A number of refurbishment plans were put in place at the time to include the now concrete floating jetty and a rebuild in the bedroom block to make all rooms ensuite.

These projects suitably placed the hotel to compete with the ever growing demands of the seasoned tourist.

Over the years many people have enjoyed the hospitality provided by the Carrybridge Hotel returning many times to soak up the memorable atmosphere created by the staff and the family.

Seasonal in its nature however due to its location and proximity to the Lough Shore, the hotel remains open throughout the winter and provides a reduced menu mid-week with full menu resuming for the weekends.

Approximately four years ago the Hotel decided to offer Sunday Carvery facilities and this in itself has gone from strength to strength.

The hotel is currently NITB certified to meet the minimum requirements for guest accommodation.

Current Manager and Colin’s daughter, Tanya, has been managing the hotel for 18 years.

She says, “As we venture in to the the next chapter of the ‘Carrybridge Lakeside Lodge brand’ we are planning to embark on a number of projects both in house and sectoral wide including the new tourism rating scheme, using it as an opportunity to strategically grow our business anD place ourselves in a unique category within the tourism sector of Northern Ireland.

“Saturday night will mark a momentos occasion and is an opportunity for us as a family to thank our patrons for their continued support over the years.

“We would also like to see all our past staff who have all contributed to the Carrybridge ethos over the last 20 years.

“It will also give my current staff the opportunity to be part of something so poignant and showcase their skills in moving forward.

“To all my past and current staff, ‘thank you’, and not forgetting my longest serving member of staff Joe Gibson, my head barman who has been with us for 19 years.” Buffet food will be served and a line up of bands and local musicians will perform.

Everyone is welcome.