NEXT Thursday, September 27, sees the launch of the new Strabane History Society programme.

The introductory meeting, entitled 'Snippets from the Past' will see a number of local speakers recount issues from the history of Strabane and district.

A full programme of talks and presentations has been arranged for the months ahead, with meetings generally on the last Thursday of each month. October is the exception when a series of talks on the Flight of the Earls will be held on Saturday 20 while a tour of 16th and early 17th century sites on the evening of the October 19 will provide stimulus for the more detailed talks on the following day. In November, local doctor Charles Sullivan will talk about health care in the aftermath of World War Two while a talk on the history of the Canal is also pencilled in for the pre-Christmas programme.

The event next Thursday evening starts at 8pm and visitors are always welcome. This will also be the annual meeting of the society and provides an opportunity for members and others to help shape the programme and activities of the history society in the coming year.

Outgoing secretary Johnny Dooher saidNew members are always welcome and outgoing secretary Johnny Dooher stresses that the programme of events and activities does not require any deep knowledge of local history nor does it put pressure on people to do additional work. Local history is generally a pastime and an opportunity for relaxation and meeting with others. There is a small membership fee to help cover costs but no other obligations. Venue is the Library, Abercorn Square.