‘Out & About’

 Firstly, we must congratulate Padraig Reidy (son of Margaret & Paudie, Upper Athea) who was married in Spain over the weekend to Maria Vaughan of Moyvane. And thankfully the majority of family and friends  in the end were able to make it  following the French air-traffic controllers strike – which for a while had the guests, who were trying to get to the ‘big event’, in a terrible panic! We congratulate the newly-weds and wish them all the very best for the future.

The multi-sports camp for the primary school children starts here in Athea Community Centre on July 28th to August 1st running from 10am-3pm, Monday to Friday. Booking is essential – phone Maggie on 087-9866533 or Brendan on 087-1515627 or email [email protected]Early booking is advisable. The cost is €50, with a family discount. With the forthcoming GAA Camp, Soccer Camp and Basketball Camp, there will be very fit children in our parish – and isn’t it great for them during the summer holidays.

A great night, as always, was enjoyed by players and parents alike on Friday night last at the Top of the Town when Athea Utd held their annual ‘Awards Night’. Parents joined in the fun and dancing with “Rock the Boat” getting them all down on the floor. Well done to all.

Thanks is extended to all those who bought tickets or attended the benefit dance for Martina Tierney at the Devon Inn on Friday night last. Sandra O’Sullivan of Hillside Drive,  (Martina’s sister) is grateful to one and all. Congratulations to Joan O’Connor, Gortdromagouna, Moyvane who won the top prize of a load of turf on the night.

Don’t forget this Sunday, July 6th both a 5k and 10k road race is taking place in and around the parish – with the money raised going to the Athea Tidy Towns. So whether you want to walk, jog or run, everyone is very welcome to join in. And I’m sure everyone will agree with me that Athea looks absolutely stunning at the moment with the flowers in bloom and the houses newly painted. Hopefully there will be a big turn-out on Sunday.

Well what a night it was in a specially erected marquee in the Demesne in Newcastle West. Rising star Nathan Carter took to the stage in front of thousands – in what was a brilliant night. Preceded by Paddy Quilligan and his family band (Paddy being married to Nora Murphy of Athea) who were also excellent. Everyone agreed that music and song brought many people together in union and I have to say in the traveller’s defence – they were so very well behaved all of us enjoying the atmosphere. Hopefully Tom (at Gerry Griffin’s butchers) isn’t too stiff after all his energetic moves and singing his heart out!