THE community ssector from Omagh turned out in its finest on Saturday night to salute and give recognition to all the people who offer their time and services for free.

FOCUS, funded by BSP measure 3.3, and Omagh District Council were delighted to be celebrating the success of the communities, at their annual event, Milly's Ball. The current chairperson, Siobhan Mc Dermott, highlighted "that were no losers, only winners" and commended everyone who gives some of their free time to improve their communities

"We see the same faces and they carry on making this a better, safer, and enjoyable place to live in.

"And for what?" stated Geraldine Keys, co-ordinator of FOCUS – "because they want to – not because they will receive prizes or get paid but because they see the benefits of their long hard hours that they have committed to their project or community.

"They see the importance of getting involved – they see the importance of not moaning but organising, and they get on with it. It's nights like this that are important to all of us because we get the chance to acknowledge their tremendous efforts. But these people are only the tip of the ice berg. Each one are worthy of recognition and more, but there are many who never get the thank you, the clap on the back, the certificate or just the nod to say that's a job well done, and thanks for taking the time.

"This night is about those being recognised here with us, but it is also about the forgotten heroes and volunteers in our communities, to each and every one of you we salute you."