THERE were calls last night for an event to be held to mark the 50th anniversary of the Claudy bombing.
SDLP East Derry assembly member Cara Hunter has written to Derry City and Strabane District Council to propose that a commemoration be held next year.
Nine people were killed and many injured after three IRA car bombs exploded in the village on July 31 1972.
Ms Hunter said she had asked if the council would be willing to provide peace and reconciliation funding towards an event commemorating the bombing and celebrating Claudy and its people.
"What happened in Claudy almost 50 years ago still has a huge impact on life in the village today," she said.
"When I’ve met with victims or family members of those affected the toll it has taken on them and their lives is clear.
"However, there’s much more to the village than the bombing. Claudy is a strong close-knit community that should not be defined by its tragic past.
"Despite the harrowing events that took place there it is still a thriving community with respect for all traditions and walks of life."
She added that she is "proposing an event that remembers those who suffered so tragically 50 years ago, but also celebrates the people of Claudy and all they have achieved".
"I’m calling on the council to engage with victims and local stakeholders to identify the best way forward," she said.
"The devastating events of that day can never be forgotten and it is only right a fitting memorial is held on this significant anniversary."
