Congratulations to Tomás Mullane (son of Mary B. & Conor of Knocknagorna, Athea), who last week became engaged to Eleanor Stackpoole,daughter of Catherine and Patsy of Tullyleague, Glin.

Also we send heartiest congratulations to Declan O’Carroll, Park, Athea (son of Lillian and Brendan) who has become engaged to Maireád Aherne, daughter of Julie and Pat, Lyreacrompane.

Best wishes to the newly engaged couples.

Congratulations to Catriona Kenrick of Ballyhahill and a regular visitor to Athea who had a great 30th birthday at Brown Joe’s on Saturday night last along with her family, relations and many friends.

Well this is the time of the year when there is a very noticeable “lull” everywhere. The Listowel Races are over – lawns have had their last cut – the garden furniture is being put away (despite not even having been sat on this year due to the weather!) and it’s just 11 weeks to Christmas. Some find this time of the year quite lonely, especially if they have no work, have lost a loved one, are finding the going tough or for whatever reason – but “keep the chin up”  there’s always someone, somewhere much less off and with bigger troubles.

Sincere sympathy is extended to Patsy Kelleghan and family of Knocknagorna and the Quinn family of Clash on the sudden death of Stephen Kelleghan in California at a young age. Sympathy also to his mother Betty, formerly of Clash, Athea.