It was a cold day with the threat of heavy rain, which fortunately held off, as people from many walks of life gathered at Strabane's Library to celebrate and commemorate the life and work of local man Dr George Sigerson.

Sean Nolan, Secretary of the Ulster History Circle, welcomed the guests.

Kieran Maguire, chair of the Culture, Arts and Leiure Committee of Strabane District Council said the Council was delighted to support this public recognition of the life and achievements of Doctor Sigerson. He commended the Ulster History Circle, the Gaelic Athletic Association, Libraries Northern Ireland and the Heritage Lottery Fund for taking the necessary steps to commemorate Doctor Sigerson. The breadth of his involvement in Irish life in the late 19th and early 20th century was truly outstanding and this public accolade should stimulate a greater awareness of Doctor Sigerson in the story of Ireland and its people.

Gerry Burns, Member of the Heritage Lottery Fund Committee for Northern Ireland said the Fund was always interested in supporting projects that uncover and celebrate our unique local heritage. The Sigerson Cup is well known in sporting circles throughout Ireland, and this Blue Plaque would help to raise awareness of the life and works of its Strabane-born creator. The plaque is a fantastic acknowledgement of Dr Sigerson's contribution to local life and the Fund was delighted to be involved in the Blue Plaque programme, which helps to honour the achievements of these important figures.

Muriel Todd, Business Manager, Libraries NI, said that Libraries NI was delighted that one of its buildings has been chosen to house this commemorative plaque. Dr. George Sigerson is recognised for the significance his life has played in the district's history, as a renowned physician, scientist, writer, politician and poet.

Aoghan O'Farrell, President of the Ulster Council of the GAA was delighted to be able to unveil the plaque marking the significant contribution that Professor George Sigerson has made to Irish life. It was especially fitting that this plaque was being unveiled in his home town of Strabane and he was grateful to the both the Strabane District Council and the Ulster History Circle for their financial contribution and commitment to the project. 2011 is the centenary year of the Sigerson Cup, which is the Higher Education inter-varsity GAA Football competition named after Dr. Sigerson. In 1911 he offered the salary from his post as Professor at UCD to purchase the Sigerson Trophy which has remained one of the longest serving in the GAA. The trophy alongside this plaque serves as fitting way to mark the life of a great Irish physician, scientist, writer, politician, poet and gael.

Ken McGilloway talked about writing the new biography of Sigerson, due to be launched soon.

Some photos of the event are shown below.