Belfast’s SPAR Cavehill closed out 2024 with a heartwarming community celebration, marking the 70th birthday of former store owner Norman Porter while raising £800 for two local charities.
The event, organised by the store’s current owners, Frank Quigley and Norman’s daughter, Jenny Reilly, brought together staff, customers, and local residents to celebrate the milestone birthday and support SPAR’s charity partner, Marie Curie, as well as the Community Fire & Rescue Service.
Norman, who owned and operated SPAR Cavehill for over 40 years, remains an integral part of the store’s daily operations even after passing ownership to Jenny and longtime store manager Frank in 2015. His longstanding presence in the community made the occasion particularly special.
“It was important to me and the whole team to celebrate dad’s 70th birthday,” Reilly said. “Having owned and run SPAR Cavehill for over 40 years, he is a well-known and respected figure in the local community, so our shoppers were delighted to join in the celebrations and show their appreciation.”
The in-store birthday party featured cake, coffee, and treats in exchange for donations, while customers also had the opportunity to win prizes with the SPAR Spinner. Special guest Sammy SPAR made an appearance, adding to the festive atmosphere. Volunteers from the Community Fire & Rescue Service attended to thank shoppers for their support and raise awareness of their vital services. Additionally, the Dale Farm van stopped by to distribute ice lollies in return for contributions to Marie Curie.
“Being a hub in the community, it’s always been important to us to show our support, so it was a no brainer to mark my dad’s birthday by fundraising for two local charities,” Reilly added.
“The celebrations were a great success, and we were thrilled to see so many of our community coming together to show their support, helping us raise a total of £800 for Marie Curie and Community Fire & Rescue Service. I want to extend a huge thank you to our shoppers and our team at SPAR Cavehill.”
Expressing his gratitude, Norman Porter said: “Thank you to the team at SPAR Cavehill, our shoppers and whole community for celebrating my 70th birthday with me. It has been a privilege to serve the community for so many years and we have appreciated their ongoing support for the store. A special thank you goes to my daughter Jenny for making it a birthday to remember.”
Andrew Goodacre