A Co. Armagh school is set to kick off its centenary year celebrations with a grand dinner attended by past pupils who have gone on to do amazing things.
Portadown College is promising a night of fine food, first-class entertainment, a charity raffle and an auction to celebrate the momentous occasion at the Seagoe Hotel on March 8.
Peter Cardwell, a former College student and renowned political journalist, is host for the evening, with former Head Girl Lady Mary Peters LG, CH, DBE, also confirmed to be attending.
The College, or ‘PC’ as it is known by those who went there, was founded in 1924 at its old premises at Bann House on Bridge Street in Portadown.
In 1962, it moved to its current, more familiar, site on the Killicomaine Road.
The school has also launched an appeal for past pupils and friends to share old photographs, memorabilia and stories of their experiences at the college with the aim of shining a light on the past 100 years of the school and all who have come through its doors in that time.
Speaking on the upcoming dinner, College Principal, Gillian Gibb, said: “I hope that much needed-funds can be raised through this special event for the School Fund and the Mary Peters Trust.
“We are delighted that Lady Mary Peters LG, CH, DBE, a former College Head Girl, has confirmed her attendance. It is hoped, schedules permitting, that another well-known past pupil, Gloria Hunniford OBE, will also be present.”
Miss Gibb, herself a former Portadown College student, added that she was, “looking forward to meeting up with alumni and staff to share stories and memories from down through the decades”.
Chairman of the Board of Governors, Peter Aiken, highlighted: “The College Centenary Dinner is the perfect opportunity to connect with school friends and enjoy an evening out whilst showing support for worthy causes.
“At a time when the College is facing many challenges in terms of financial resources, not least the proposed new school estate, it is important for us to come together in support of fundraising initiatives.”
He added: “On behalf of the governing body I wish to thank the sub-group of governors who have organised the Centenary Dinner.”
Those wishing to attend the Portadown College Centenary Dinner can purchase tickets here.
