Victoria Square partners with Friends of the Cancer Centre
Victoria Square has announced a new charity partnership with Friends of the Cancer Centre, honouring the life and legacy of much-loved tour guide Gerry Blain, who passed away last year following a two-year battle with cancer.
A familiar and friendly face to many, Gerry worked at the centre before its opening in 2008, dedicating 18 years to welcoming visitors and sharing stories about Belfast, with his ‘office’ located in Victoria Square’s iconic dome. Belfast-born and bred, Gerry took immense pride in his city and became known for his warmth, humour and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Joining representatives from Victoria Square and Friends of the Cancer Centre to launch the partnership, Gerry’s wife Lynn Blain reflected on what his role meant to him: “Victoria Square meant so much to Gerry. He loved being here, meeting people, sharing stories about Belfast and spending time with everyone who worked here.”
Despite planning to retire, Gerry chose to continue working following his diagnosis, returning to the centre for a few days each week.
“Even after his diagnosis, he was determined to come back,” explains Lynn. “We would bring him in in his wheelchair; he still wanted to be here, meeting people. It gave him an immense sense of pride and purpose.”
In October 2024, Gerry became the first ever recipient of Spirit of Belfast Award at the Belfast Chamber Awards in honour of his long and committed service to the role. Speaking after receiving the award he said making people smile was a gift. “It’s a very simple job - I just speak to people all day long - we could be chatting about sport, tours, anything at all, but I just love it.”
Gerry’s legacy lives on through the countless people he met and the joy he brought to visitors from all around the world. Through this new partnership, Victoria Square aims to ensure his kindness continues to make a difference in the lives of others.
For 40 years, Friends of the Cancer Centre has been dedicated to making a real and meaningful difference to cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland. The charity enhances the quality of patient care and support through its life-changing and life-saving work, which includes funding additional nurses, supporting local research and providing practical support, such as financial grants, which help families through the most difficult times.
From something as simple as a cup of tea while waiting for an appointment, to comfortable day rooms that offer patients space away from busy wards, everything is focused on making an incredibly difficult time a little easier.
Ana Wilkinson, chief executive of Friends of the Cancer Centre said: “Everything we do to support local families relies on our wonderful friends who raise vital funds for the charity. We are delighted to have the support of the team at Victoria Square, especially as it’s in memory of such a dear friend and colleague.
“We look forward to working with Victoria Square throughout the year ahead to raise both funds and awareness for Friends of the Cancer Centre, helping the charity continue its vital work supporting local patients and families across Northern Ireland.”
Gerry was a keen runner and ran many marathons over the years. In a fitting tribute, five of his former colleagues will run the relay at the Belfast City Marathon this weekend as part of Victoria Square’s fundraising efforts for Friends of the Cancer Centre. A Tap to Donate station will also be installed on the mall, with donations also encouraged during the centre’s flagship events throughout the year.
Commenting on the partnership, Michelle Greeves, centre manager at Victoria Square, said: “Gerry was truly one of a kind and an integral part of the Victoria Square family for nearly two decades. His warmth, humour and genuine love for people made him incredibly special, and he is deeply missed by colleagues and visitors alike.
“We are honoured to launch this partnership in his memory. It is a fitting tribute to Gerry and will allow us to support Friends of the Cancer Centre in the vital work they do for patients and families across Northern Ireland.”
Gerry’s wife Lynn added: “The support we received from Friends of the Cancer Centre was incredible. From the moment you walk through the door, every single person is so kind and caring. I’m very proud that this partnership will help support other families like ours.”
Further details on fundraising activities linked to the partnership will be announced in due course. To find out more, visit www.victoriasquare.com or connect with Victoria Square @victoriasqbelfast on Instagram.
