South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF) held a special family-themed drive-in carol service at Crawford’s sawmill yard, Lisbellaw on Sunday, December 13.

Well over 80 cars attended the service, which was developed by SEFF for the purpose of “encouraging fellowship across the SEFF family”.

Following the service, there was even a visit from Santa Claus, that went down well with children and adults alike.

SEFF’s Director of Services, Kenny Donaldson, said: “This year has been an extremely turbulent year for many individuals and families and, sadly, the Covid pandemic has claimed the lives of many across Northern Ireland, but also throughout our world.

“Many gathered at the service know of people who have died, and we will also know of others who died since [the pandemic struck in] March, and who were unable to be given the wake and funeral arrangements which we traditionally offer in this place.

“That has brought additional significant distress and heartache to many families,” he said.

Mr. Donaldson continued: “We re-commit our intention to hold a Remembrance and Thanksgiving service at a point when it is safe, post the roll-out of the Covid vaccine, where we will bring the SEFF family together to collectively grieve for loved ones and friends who we have lost since the first Covid lockdown of March.

“We are immensely proud that throughout the worst of these days, the SEFF family remained firmly intact, and we have continued to function in providing a service to members, via partner groups and the broader community.

“This focus of service is essential to our being and, going forward, in 2021, we must continue to keep connected with what our core purpose is as an organisation – supporting the innocent victims and survivors of terrorism, and being part of the strengthening of the community.”

Mr. Donaldson also offered his thanks to all involved in the service, including Howard Brooker, who facilitated, and all the music performers and readers who contributed.

He also thanked his team of staff and volunteers within SEFF who worked on the project, and recognised Crawford’s for making the facility available, as well as Gordon and Barbara McKeown for being the conduit for arrangements.

Mr. Donaldson concluded by wishing all a blessed and peaceful Christmas, and he asked for people to take care of those who have limited family structures around them at this time.