Blair Memorial Flute Band

In 1975, at a time when Northern Ireland was a very dangerous place to reside, due to a campaign of intimidation, violence and terrorism, a group of young men from Omagh area mainly Hospital Road, but also included Festival Park, Watson Park, Beattie Park and other areas had the idea of starting a flute band in the town. Like many other parts of the province, this was with a view to having a strong community and cultural identity. Drew and John Blair from Queens Parade in the Hospital Rd area of the town, who were well known for their membership of the Loyal Orders and youth work especially in the Boys Brigade, were part of this group. On a warm Sunday afternoon in June 1975, the Blair Brothers, Drew (Age 25) and John (Age 23) tragically died along with Heather Birney (Age 15) of the Festival Park in Omagh Town after the brothers tried their best to save her. This triple tragedy happened at the Lovers Retreat beauty spot in Omagh. Not long after this tragic event the Blair family approached the other young men involved in forming this group, with the idea of the proposed flute band being named in memory of Drew and John. After discussions and deliberations The Blair Memorial Flute Band Omagh was formed. Instruments were purchased and practising commenced in the former Royal British Legion (Women's Section) premises in Campsie Road. The Band later moved to a new prefabricated hall, which was erected close to the Blair's family home in Queens parade. It is worth noting, that this is the site of the car park of the Hospital Rd Community centre , and in recent years the Band now continues to hold their practice, meetings and other community events at this state of the art Complex.