by Peg Prendeville

Well, the weather did its best to dampen the enthusiasm of the brave people who turned up to the Vintage/FunDay in Knockdown on Sunday last but it did not succeed. A lovely atmosphere pervaded through the day and from 12 noon to 6 pm there was activity of some sort. The Vintage tractors and bikes attracted lots of attention, not to mention the threshing machine, and the farrier exhibition by James Woods. Mickey O’Brien brought along Trant’s donkey and day old foal which were much admired. There were many stalls of craftwork, paintings, jewellery, mirrors and slates, Pitch for Shane models, delicious confectionary and bric-a-brac. But what attracted the most attention and was very welcome on the cold, drizzly day were the burgers which were barbequed by Tommy and Mike. These two men were kept busy for six hours trying to get to the end of the line of people anxious to “build your own burger”.  There was face painting for the young children and races for the under age plus tug-of-war and sheaf tossing for the adults to help to burn up the extra calories. Den O’Brien was busy with his camera and has put up photos on Facebook. After six pm many crossed the road to the Knockdown Arms to hear Big Maggie playing and the music and banter continued til late. All in all a very successful day but it was a pity we could not see the sun as well.

Killeany AFC presented Mike Ahern and Margaret O’Keeffe with a cheque for €10,600, the winnings from the Lotto last week. Congratulations to both. The Lotto now stands at 3,100 which is nothing to be sneezed at either so please continue to buy the tickets at all local outlets.

There is an exhibition of ICA Art and Crafts in Newcastle West Library for the next week or two so if you are in town do call in to see it.

Belated Happy Birthday to Jack O’Grady who was 87 years lately.