Profiles


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Peggy Lyons

Chair

I am a retired Social Worker and was born in Dungarvan, Co Waterford. I am a proud mother of 3 children and grandmother to seven, great grandmother to 1. Since retiring I have worked in the voluntary sector and I’m a Trustee of World Forum.

I am honoured to be the Chair of INS, my main involvement is organising and overseeing our social events for our elderly and vulnerable members.

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Marie King

Treasurer

My parents are from Ireland and I was born in London. I moved up to Stevenage in 1976 where I attended local schools followed by a variety of jobs both in the private and public sector.

I started at INS about 10 years ago and my main role is as the Treasurer and supporting members with financial and benefit queries.

My time is busy with volunteering, spending time and looking after my 2 grandchildren and exploring new places.

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Heather Morris

Secretary

My role within the INS is that of secretary for the Trustees and I have undertaken this role since July 2010. I first became involved as a way to build on my connections to Ireland within our local community.

Since joining the INS, I have seen great growth in its membership, the activities and inclusion it gives to the local community, as well as it firmly establishing itself as a charity organisation.

My family are from Co. Donegal, a place I truly consider and call my home from home

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Brendan Clynch

Trustee

Born in Co. Wicklow 1941, I came to England in 1958 to Neesdon, London. I worked for the Off licence industry and then for the Royal Mail.

I came to Stevenage in 2003 and I’m married to Kay and have 2 children and 5 grandchildren. I like gardening and playing snooker. I joined the INS in 2009 and then in 2010 I became a Trustee. I enjoy my role at the INS and helping local people who are members of the INS participate in social activities.

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Hilda Warwick

Trustee

I moved to Stevenage from London 10 years ago, but origially come from Belfast. My previous jobs before I retired was a pharmacy assistant and a home carer. I love volunteering and am involved as a Director with the Stevenage Credit Union.

I am a volunteer for INS and participate in the organising and preparation for our Social Events as well as being a devoted member of our Care in the Community (CIC) team.

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Louise Donovan

Trustee

I am second generation Irish and have always been involved in the Irish culture.

I see every day the importance of supporting communities and the impact it has on people and I am proud to be associated with the INS and to see how it has helped so many people. One of the best things about being a Trustee of INS is to see how much our members enjoy the events and how the INS community has grown and strengthened over the years.

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Peter Morris

Trustee

I have served as a trustee with the INS since September 2023.

I initially got involved as a way to give back to the community and to support the charity’s mission of serving the older population in Stevenage.

Since joining, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact INS has made, particularly in the growth and diversity of its events, increased engagement with local residents, and the strengthening of connections with the wider Irish community in Stevenage and surrounding local communities.

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Conor McGrath

Trustee

I was born and raised in Stevenage by my Irish parents, a unique blend of cultures shaping my identity.

In 2023, I took on the role of councillor for the Bedwell ward, advocating tirelessly for the community's needs. Alongside this commitment, I proudly serve as a trustee of the Irish Network Stevenage, supporting and connecting with the older people in the area.

My passion for making a positive impact drives me to be a dedicated leader, bridging cultures and fostering unity in the heart of Stevenage. Through my work, I strive to embody the values of service, leadership, and cultural pride.

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Elaine Connolly

Project Manager

I was born in Stevenage and my mother was from Dublin and my father is from Wexford. I am married with 3 daughters and I am a Trustee of Stevenage World Forum for Ethnic Communities which supports all ethnic communities in Stevenage and the surrounding areas.

I am the Project Manager for INS and thoroughly enjoy the role as it gives me the opportunity to meet some fantastic people and work alongside a committed group of volunteers. I thoroughly enjoy giving back to the community.

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Jackie Owen

Social Activities Coordinator

I have lived in Stevenage for most of my life. My mother is from Donegal, Ireland. I have worked for the last twenty years in various IT Companies.

I have adorable twin boys that have kept me very busy and I enjoy spending quality time with them. As they are starting to get bigger, I’m able to offer my skill set to the INS. My role within INS is Social Activities Coordinator and it is one that I love. I consider myself to be very versatile, friendly and nothing is too much trouble.

Volunteers

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Dave Lamport
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Gill Lamport
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Jean Hayden
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Jean Maloney-Craig
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Joe Craig
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John Hayden
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Kay Clynch
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Margaret Rice
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Mary O'Brien
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Melvin Fletcher
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Noreen Palmer
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Pam Collins
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Pat Simmons
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Patsy Reilly
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Vi O'Connor
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Theresa O'Neill