Your Story, Our History: Londonderry YMCA

In this final instalment of Your Story, Our History, we step away from the interview desk to explore the history of the Londonderry YMCA through our new Heritage Exhibit. While the previous 15 episodes focused on the personal lived experiences of our community, this finale serves as a guided audio tour of the physical exhibit now housed at Drumahoe. Narrated by our Heritage Committee, the tour pro...

In the final interview of the series, Gareth Lamrock takes us on a journey through his lifelong connection to the Londonderry YMCA. Having watched the building rise from the ground in the 80s, Gareth went from a teenager playing his first punk gig for a "curry chip" payment to becoming a cornerstone of the youth work team for decades. Gareth reflects on the evolution of the organisation—...

Kris Dunn’s connection to the Londonderry YMCA began in 1983, standing in a field as a primary school student for the building's opening ceremonies. In this episode, Kris reflects on a lifetime spent at Drumahoe—from helping his mother with hostel breakfasts to his 20-year career on the rugby pitch. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of the rugby club’s rise toward the All-Ireland leagues, th...

Gillian Simpson has been part of the YMCA for four decades. In this episode, she reflects on her lifelong connection to Drumahoe, beginning with her parents, Pat and Willie Lamrock. Gillian shares nostalgic memories of beetle drives, fundraisers, and the excitement of the disco era—including the time she joined the staff for dinner with a visiting actor from the soap Neighbours. Now a member of th...

Rhianna Hegarty represents the new generation of leadership at Londonderry YMCA. In this episode, Rhianna shares how a simple invitation to join the youth club in Currynierin transformed her life path. From trainee to professional youth worker on the E2T programme, she reflects on how the YMCA provided the opportunities she needed to turn a passion into a career. Rhianna discusses the importance o...

In this episode, we introduce the School of Sport, a landmark cross-community project from the 1990s. Annette Taylor, who started her journey with the project as a 16-year-old assistant coach, reflects on how the program used sports like hockey and football to bridge the city's divide. She shares the pride of watching young people develop new skills before celebrating their achievements at the...

In this episode, we go back to the very beginning of the Londonderry YMCA Rugby Club with its first-ever captain, Eddie Nutter. Eddie shares how the club was formed to meet the growing demand for rugby in the city and the immense responsibility of leading a brand-new team—from selection and fixtures to building a squad from the ground up. Eddie reflects on what truly makes a great player and how h...

In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Johnston, whose 30-year journey with the YMCA has seen him move from the rugby pitch to the Board of Directors. Adrian shares the fascinating story of the "Infinity Project," a groundbreaking initiative where he served as Chair, helping young people take the lead to host massive discos that drew huge crowds and top DJs. Beyond the events, Adrian reflects de...

In this episode, we are revisiting the Youth Club through a conversation with Louise, Melissa, and Shanagh. All three started their journey at the YMCA as volunteers and junior leaders, eventually progressing into professional roles within the staff team. They reflect on how the "YMCA family" bond stays with you no matter where your career takes you, and discuss the joy of meeting former club memb...

In this episode, we are revisiting the YMCA Drama Group in a conversation with the man who led it all. John Magowan oversaw a special era from 1996 to 2001, where a simple taster session blossomed into a Wednesday night staple at Drumahoe—so popular that it often carried a waiting list. John reflects on the creative energy of the group, from the challenge of "three props in a box" to the confidenc...

In this episode, we sit down with Ivan, a man whose life was intertwined with the YMCA Rugby Club for over 20 years. Ivan takes us on the journey of a club that rose through the leagues on a foundation of pure grit and "all-weather" dedication. He reflects on the motivating force of the late Willie Lamrock and the unshakeable ethos of looking out for one another. From the highs of the club being t...

Released on International Women’s Day, this episode celebrates the leadership and legacy of the women at the heart of Londonderry YMCA.  Catriona Coyle, our Youth Work Manager, sits down to share her journey through years of life-changing projects. From the impact of the TBUC programmes and the excitement of St. Patrick’s Day parades to the messy fun of the foam pit at Summer Fundays, Catriona ref...

In our fourth episode, we sit down with our General Secretary, Lisa Dunn. Having been part of the organisation for over twenty years, Lisa shares the stories that have defined her time at the YMCA.  From the profound impact of the late Willie Lamrock on her life and the organisation, to the laughs behind the infamous "canoe race incident," Lisa reflects on the unique community bond found at London...

In our third episode, we are joined by Gemma, a member of the Drama Group!  Gemma tells us all about the joys of performing, being part of the productions, and the impact being part of the group had on her life. This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In our second episode were are joined by Keith, a founding member of the YMCA Rugby Club. Keith takes us back to the beginning, telling us about how the club was first established, the challenges and its community ethos. This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players!

In our first episode, we turn the microphone on one of the people behind the project. Catherine, our Project Coordinator, shares her own memories of life at Londonderry YMCA. From her beginnings volunteering at the Youth Club to her work now in the Heritage Project, uncovering 170 years of history, Catherine reflects on what makes Londonderry YMCA such a special place for the community. This proje...

What does it mean to be part of a community for 170 years? In this special trailer, Project Coordinator Catherine and Archivist Hannah introduce you to the voices of Londonderry YMCA. From the muddy glory of the rugby pitch and the electric energy of the drama stage to the life-changing impact of our youth clubs, these are the stories that don't always make it into the history books. Featured...