A message from Tom McGoff (Chairman & Honourary Secretary)

Hello & Welcome to our Web Site. Having lived in the Parish of the English Martyrs for many years, I am proud and honored to represent the parish as Chairman & Honourary Secretary

I came into the parish in 1955 and was educated at both of the Parish's Primary schools - Bishop Bilsborrow and the, then, brand new English Martyrs School.

I joined the committee in 1990 & soon after was "promoted" to the secretary's position.

The Martyrs is steeped in tradition & history - I often think of the original committee and how, through their vision & tenacity established the parish centre. Little did they know that after thirty plus years it would still be thriving. We owe them, and their families, a debt of gratitude.

As explained in our "Club History" page, the parish centre has had a committee from day one. Unfortunately, only three of the original committee are with us today. May I ask that you remember all those departed friends in your thoughts & prayers.

At this stage, I would like to thank all those ex-committee members who have given freely of their time, to support our parish centre.

The parish centre has been the centre of many parties & fundraising events, with stars from sport, radio & TV hosting a number of events. In recent times we have welcomed Manchester City's Mr Alex Williams MBE and also local broadcaster and GMR presenter, Mr Aeomen O'Neal.

We have worked hard to promote the family atmosphere within our Club. It often pleases me to see so many of the parish generations, using the Club. I must be getting old but only recently I remember one gentlemen booking his 40th Birthday party and yet, I recollect him in his school uniform making his First Holy Communion! How Time Moves ON!

The committee and I have worked tirelessly to open the club to "everybody" We are very proud of the fact that it has gained a reputation for hosting Fund Raising events. Furthermore, we cherish our relationship -which we have nurtured down the years -with our dear Friends from the Manchester Irish Associations.

One of the highlights in my life came in 1996, when I was elected to the prestigious position as chairperson of the Council for Irish Associations. I held this office for six years before standing down and then, being made vice president. May I take this opportunity to sincerely thank the chairpersons and their committees for all the support they have given to me.

Of course, I cannot finish off without thanking my dear - but long suffering! - wife, Maureen. For her love & support throughout the years and for understanding that the duties of a Committee Chairman never cease!

Thanks to everyone who has used the Centre - for your support down the years and your continued patronage of the English Martyrs.