IT'S a full house at Upper Larkfield Community Hall again after bingo made its big comeback.

The popular Wednesday night sessions had been shelved since March 2020 due to coronavirus restrictions, but players are now enjoying their games again.

Organiser Kerry Maguire, who started the sessions around four years ago, says it's great to see everyone back playing in person again.

She says the regulars are all back in their usual spots and there are even a few new recruits.

Kerry says players were upset when their gatherings had to come to a halt.

She said: "We were on one week then the next it was all gone.

"People contacted me to tell me that they really missed it - it definitely had a big impact on people.

"We're so thankful that we didn't lose our players to Covid.

"That was a big worry when we were coming back.

"It's great to see them all again."

Around 30 players were regulars at the hall every Wednesday night and Kerry says she's seen a few more coming in since the restart.

As well as the usual games of bingo, Kerry also organises events at Christmas and Easter and runs race nights to raise money to keep the sessions going.

Bingo caller Rose McAuley keeps the players on their toes.

Kerry says the Wednesday night gatherings are about far more than a game of bingo.

She added: "It's a social event.

"A lot of our players stay around about here but we have people who come from as far afield as the Port.

"It's a big part of the community and a great facility to have."

Mamie McBrearty, 93, lives across the road from the hall and loves taking part in the games.

She said: "I love it here and I'm in whenever it's open.

"I really missed it.

"I like the company and all the chat.

"It's the only thing I get out to now and it's the best wee hall."

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EYES DOWN Bingo organiser Kerry Maguire with players Mary McCorkell, 71, and Mamie McBrearty, 93.