Knockdown and the surrounding area was full of life last weekend with the Knockdown Vintage getting together with Estuary Macra to organise a Vintage Tractor Bog Run on Sunday.  Starting in Knockdown they went up Toureen, down through Mohernagh and Chawke’s farm and up Clounleharde, turning in through Spahill bog and out by Neidin Shaughnessy’s. The bigger modern tractors took a longer run into Moyvane and Glin. Tea and refreshments were served in the Knockdown Arms on their return. A great night was held in the Knockdown Arms on the Saturday night with music and raffle prizes. All of this was in aid of Pieta House. Well done to all who worked to ensure it was a success.

First Holy Communion ceremony will be in Ballyhahill next Saturday and in Loughill the following Saturday with the confirmation ceremony on the Tuesday in between.

The Parish Clerks Collection for Loughill/Ballyhahill will be held on next weekend, 10/11^th May at all Masses. I am sure that Bridget and Danny will appreciate all support.

Ballroom dancing classes continues in the Hall, Ballyhahill on every Monday night from 9-11 p.m.  Everyone is welcome.

All of the people who passed through Spahill for the Vintage run were very impressed by the wild beauty and peace of the place. This reminds me that Paddy Faley once wrote about the lakes as follows:

 The Twin Lakes of Spahill by Paddy Faley

Some go to Lisdoonvarna for a dip in the Spa water

To cure their arthritis, their pains and aches to slaughter,

Since Spa water effects a cure you’ll find it nearer still,

In superabundance it is found in the Twin Lakes of Spahill.

 So don’t you go travelling to far off County Clare

You’ll find Spa water in Knockdown better than anywhere

If you’re suffering from headache or any other ill

You’ll leave it all behind you in the Twin Lakes of Spahill.

 No better place in Ireland to jump in for a swim

The magic of this water will loosen every limb

You’ll go leaping o’er the heather with the joy it will instil

And you will count your blessings at the Twin Lakes of Spahill.

 The peaceful surroundings will bring pleasure to your heart

Here your soul will find God’s grace and you’ll be loathe to part

There you can view a monument in the shape of a limekiln

That tells the tales of other days by the Twin Lakes of Spahill.

 To this spot the sportsmen come with guns to try their luck

And have a crack at the pheasants the woodcock and wild duck

You’ll see the graceful seagulls floating on each rippling rill

That dances on the surface of the Twin Lakes of Spahill.

 So if ever you are travelling along the sweet Kerryline

In one of our hot summers when the sun decides to shine

Take the bog road by Ned Shaughnessy’s, your dreams you will fulfil

And go home bouncing like a hare from the Twin Lakes of Spahill

 The tourists will soon be flocking when the good news gets around

That a miraculous cure in the Spahill water can be found

The Government grants we will be seeking, and get them I know we will

To improve the amenities by the Twin Lakes of Spahill.