In the rural village of Plumbridge, nestled between Strabane and Omagh in the heart of the Sperrin mountains, Anne Bradley has spent more than a quarter-century building a lifeline for older residents who might otherwise face isolation. The 74-year-old has been shortlisted for a major community recognition honour in the Great Neighbour category of the 2026 awards scheme, with the winner set to be announced on 25 September 2026.
Bradley founded the Plum Club in 2000 after recognising that many older people in the surrounding area lived miles from main roads and could go weeks without meaningful social contact. What began as a simple weekly bus run to Strabane has evolved into a thriving community hub with its own base in the village, meeting every Thursday throughout the year with only a Christmas break—and even then, Bradley remains available by phone.
According to Derry City and Strabane District Council, Bradley's recognition spans more than 25 years of service to Plumbridge, Cranagh and the wider Glenelly community. The Great Neighbour Award honours someone who regularly helps make their neighbourhood a better place to live or work, or who has made a one-off act of kindness.
What drives her commitment?
Bradley traces her approach to community care back to her childhood on a farm, where neighbours worked together and supported one another as a matter of course.
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 explained. That ethos has shaped her entire approach to the Plum Club and her wider involvement in the community.
I like being able to help people out. I'm there any day, they can give me a ring if they want anything, Bradley said of her availability to club members and others in need.
Why is the club so important to members?
For older residents in a dispersed rural area, the weekly gathering provides far more than social contact.
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, Bradley explained.
Each Thursday, members participate in activities including craft and baking before finishing with a group lunch. Regular attendees describe Bradley's role as essential to the club's success and their own wellbeing.
Roisin Conway, a long-time member, said:
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.
Hilary Smith, who has known Bradley for over 30 years, highlighted the practical difference the club makes.
She's always on the go, the Plum Club is her thing, she lives the Plum Club, Smith said. Smith is particularly grateful because she cannot currently drive and values the opportunity to get out and engage with others.
What do those who nominated her say?
Brenda Morris, who has known Bradley for more than 30 years, was among those who put her forward for the award. Morris praised Bradley's
selfless dedicationand
gentle outreach, noting that these qualities have been especially valuable during challenging periods such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
She's somebody you'd want to have in your corner fighting for you, Morris said.
Bridget Blee, who has observed Bradley's work over 25 years, emphasised the sustained nature of her commitment.
It's a long time for someone to keep up the momentum and remain involved, Blee noted.
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.
Pauline O'Neill, Age Friendly Coordinator for Derry City and Strabane, said Bradley's nomination came as no surprise.
The community would be lost without Anne, she's always front and centre – a great neighbour and support during difficult times, O'Neill said.
Bradley herself expressed humility about the recognition.
I'm humbled and honouredto be nominated, she said.
Who are the other finalists?
Bradley faces competition from three other nominees in the Great Neighbour category. Stella McGinn of Castledawson has channelled her grief following the death of her 11-year-old daughter, Caitlin-Rose, who was struck by a car in March 2025, into campaigning for stronger bus safety measures. Jacqueline McDonald of Ballymartin has spent her life quietly supporting others through kindness and practical help to those experiencing loneliness or hardship. Doreen Archer of Bangor directs, choreographs and produces the Ulster Hospital pantomime, creating an inclusive space for performers of all backgrounds.
When will the winner be announced?
The overall winner of the Great Neighbour Award for Northern Ireland will be announced live on a special broadcast on 25 September 2026 on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle. The finalists were revealed on 19 June 2026 as part of the broader 2026 Make a Difference Awards scheme, which celebrates community heroes across the UK and beyond.
Key facts
- Anne Bradley founded the Plum Club in 2000 and has led it for more than 26 years, meeting every Thursday in Plumbridge
- The club began as a weekly bus run and has grown into a community hub serving older residents across a dispersed rural area
- Bradley is one of four finalists in the Great Neighbour Award category, with the winner to be announced on 25 September 2026
- The award recognises individuals who regularly improve their neighbourhood or perform significant acts of kindness
- Members credit Bradley with providing essential social contact, activities and support that combat isolation in the countryside
