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The great neighbour at the heart of Plumbridge

Emma OrrBBC News NI
BBC Five women standing smiling at camera. Women one left is wearing a pink shirt, second left is blue top, Anne Bradley is in the middle wearing orange dress and black t-shirt, beside her on right is woman with chequered top and then last woman is wearing a black top. BBC
Anne Bradley standing beside those who nominated her for the award

To quote the theme tune to a well-known former Australian soap, "everybody needs good neighbours" and for older people in Plumbridge they don't come better than Anne Bradley.

Located in the heart of the Sperrin mountains between Strabane and Omagh, life in the rural village and surrounding area can be peaceful but, when combined with the challenges of growing older, it can be lonely.

For more than 26 years Anne has been trying to improve the lives of older people in the community through the Plum Club which she founded in 2000.

The Tyrone woman has been shortlisted for a BBC Make a Difference Award in the Great Neighbour category.

A group of older adults gathered round a large table at the Plum Club meeting place. They are completing a craft activity using paint, napkins and bags.
The Plum Club meets every Thursday

Brenda Morris and Bridget Blee are some of those who nominated the community champion.

Morris has known Bradley for more than 30 years and has experienced her "selfless dedication" and "gentle outreach" which she said has been invaluable particularly during difficult times such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

"She's somebody you'd want to have in your corner fighting for you," she said.

Blee has seen the work that Bradley has done over 25 years and it's "a long time for someone to keep up the momentum and remain involved".

"Anne has such a passion and love of helping people – whether here at the Plum Club or in the wider community.

"She's so modest so it's nice to see her getting the recognition she deserves", she added.

Bradley recognised the need for a place for older residents to meet and socialise together

The Plum Club meets weekly on Thursday's in Plumbridge and only takes time off at Christmas but even then the 74-year-old is only a phone call away.

"I like being able to help people out. I'm there any day, they can give me a ring if they want anything," she said.

Starting out as a weekly bus run to Strabane the club has evolved into a community hub with its own base in the village.

Bradley is passionate about its purpose.

"It's very important because some of these ladies live miles from the main road and could see nobody from one week to the next. They have the opportunity to meet, catch up, have a wee bit of craic and socialise," she explained.

Two older women smiling at camera. The woman in the foreground wears a bright pink patterned jumper and white shirt, while the woman beside her wears glasses, a black padded vest, and a floral top. Behind them, people sit around tables covered with craft supplies, fabrics, and other activities.
Plum Club members Elizabeth Kerlin and Roisin Conway

Regular attendees Elizabeth Kerlin, Roisin Conway and Hilary Smith are grateful for the sense of purpose Bradley has given them through the club.

"Anne is a very good organiser and she makes sure that everybody is happy with what's going on, she's much appreciated for what she does – she keeps everyone right," Conway said.

Hilary Smith is particularly grateful as she cannot drive at the moment and enjoys getting out.

"She's always on the go, the Plum Club is her thing, she lives the Plum Club".

Each week members take part in activities such as craft and baking and finish with a group lunch.

Hilary smiles at the camera while seated. She is wearing a striped orange-and-white top with a light quilted vest. Other people are working away in the background on a craft activity. She is holding a bag and Anne Bradley is in the background wearing a orange dress.
Hilary Smith has known Anne for over 30 years

Bradley traces her leadership and community ethos back to her childhood in a farming community.

"Growing up on a farm neighbours would of worked together and helped other neighbours and there would have been that community spirit there all along," she said.

Bradley is "humbled and honoured" to be nominated for the award.

"It's very special," she said.

Her nomination has come as no surprise to Derry City and Strabane's Age Friendly Coordinator Pauline O'Neill.

"The community would be lost without Anne, she's always front and centre – a great neighbour and support during difficult times," she said.

A group of older adults takes part in a craft activity around a checkered table in a community room. Anne is the woman smiling at the camera wearing an orange dress. She has a black shirt below it.
Anne Bradley founded the Club in 2000

The Great Neighbour Award

The award is given to an individual who helps to make the neighbourhood a better place to live or work, either on a regular basis or through a single act of kindness.

Anne Bradley is one of four finalists in the category, along with:

  • Stella McGinn, Castledawson – Has turned the loss of her 11-year-old daughter, Caitlin-Rose, who died after being hit by a car in March 2025 into a campaign for stronger bus safety measures.
  • Jacqueline McDonald, Ballymartin – A much loved village figure, she has spent her life quietly supporting others, and continues to offer kindness and practical help to people who are lonely or in need or support.
  • Doreen Archer, Bangor – She directs, choreographs and produces the Ulster Hospital pantomime, shaping rehearsals into a warm, inclusive space for performers of all

Overall winners will be announced live on Vinny and Cate's BBC Radio Ulster show on Friday 25 September.

Make a Difference purple graphic with The Great Neighbour Award.