By Rachel Quigley
TENSION and curiosity is rippling through Strabane as locals prepare for the opening of the town's first gay bar this weekend.
Ever since the Chronicle exclusively revealed the new venture a month ago, it has been the main talking point; on the streets, in homes, in bars, at the gym and even in steam rooms!
The bar's opening, expected last week, was postponed by a week to allow further renovations to take place.
Proprietor, James Mc Carron, told the Chronicle yesterday that his initial intentions were to renovate downstairs only, but due to the wide scale support and interest, he felt it necessary to renovate the upper area of the bar to accommodate expected patrons.
"All the feedback I've had about the bar has been positive, I was so surprised by everyone's reaction, I've received no negativity whatsoever. Even elderly residents of the town have voiced their support and have been wishing me all the best."
Asked if he was concerned about any opposition or trouble the bar might face, James seemed very optimistic: "I don't expect any trouble at all and I hope anyone who is reluctant to come down to show their support won't be worried.
"If anything should happen, which is unlikely, we are well equipped with bouncers and CCTV, just like any other bar in the town."
Manager, Betty Fleming, who is a committee member of Strabane's Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender group, reiterated the widespread support that James has received.
"I am overwhelmed by all the positive feedback we have got, from random people in the street, companies and businesses in the town to friends and family, both gay and straight.
"Everyone is aware that Strabane needs something like this to accommodate the growing LGBT community of Strabane.
"We've been working night and day to ensure that the bar will be ready for Friday night, I don't expect there to be any kind of trouble, the only thing I am worried about is whether there will be enough room for all the punters who turn up!"
The Central Bar also has its very own Bebo page, a social networking site on which James has received encouraging messages from supporters all over Ireland, including Belfast, Coleraine and even Galway, who hope to make it to Strabane at the weekend.
But the opening has also started the rumour mill.
Talk of fierce opposition and even a death threat are just that, talk.
And as James says, with a smile, the more speculation, the more publicity.
But on a serious note, he adds, "Strabane is definitely ready for this, otherwise I wouldn't be doing it, but we'll see how things go this weekend."
The bar will officially open at 8pm and a night of fun, good music and surprises are in store for all who turn up.
James is proud to be able to offer the LGBT community of Strabane a place they can relax and feel comfortable. He is also aware that not all of the people interested in coming to the bar will be drinkers, so during the week, they will be offering light refreshments in the form of tea, coffee, scones and muffins. 10% of the profit made will go back into the LGBT community.
