The Fair of Athea on Saturday last, despite the terrible wind, rain and heavy showers, was fairly well attended especially for the second half of the day, everyone who came along were all well attired for the occasion, with hats, coats and wet-gear, the brollies were forgotten as they were turned inside out!! There was a good atmosphere as everyone walked up and down viewing the stalls, the ponies, cattle, fowl, pups etc. Hot drinks, food and soup were very welcome. Some great music and song followed in the evening in the pubs, in all, whatever about the weather, it brought people from all around into our village and that in itself is a great bonus.

Athea Ladies football club want to thank everyone who supported their fund-raising draw on the day and to those who helped to sell the tickets. Tommy Grady of Brown Joe’s sponsored the 1st prize of a load of timber – this was won by Nora Matthews of Athea. Donie O’Sullivan sponsored the 2nd prize of a pony, which was won by Pa O’Sullivan of Carrigkerry – Well done to them. Here’s to 2014 and hopefully a drier day!!

Congrats to Paud Woulfe of Cratloe who celebrated his 90th birthday. Indeed a great achievement, here’s to continued good health to Paud.

Don’t forget the grand Fashion Show at The Devon Inn tonight Nov 6th at 8pm with a cheese and wine reception beforehand. All the money raised will help to send invalids to Lourdes next June. As always there will be some great valuable spot-prizes. Tickets at just €10, can be got at the door.

The death has occurred at St. Ita’s Hospital Newcastle West of Sheila Woulfe, formerly of Clash, Athea. Sheila was predeceased byher husband Ned some years ago. Sympathy to her relatives and many Athea friends and neighbours. May she rest in peace.

Let’s all contribute to the Athea Parish Journal – from years of experience I know it’s the last minute that everyone gathers up their bits and pieces, stories, photos etc – but this makes it so much harder for the printers Donal and Lillian to have the journal ready in time for Christmas and posting overseas to our emigrants. If you have any interesting stories of trips you have made recently or anything that makes good reading it would be most welcome. Maybe readers of the newsletter away from home might like to contribute.

A Liturgical ceremony will be held at Templeathea cemetery on Sunday at 12 noon, weather permitting.