By Kathleen Mullane
‘Fair of Athea’
Well, the catering wagons are already moving in to Athea for the forthcoming “Fair of Athea” which takes place on this Saturday. It’s a wonderful day always with an abundance of animals from cattle and horses to the smaller dogs, ducks, geese etc. And of course there will be an abundance of stalls also selling their various goods. In all a great day is anticipated, all that’s needed now is for the weather to remain as good as it has been for the past few days – and wasn’t it brilliant, the flowers are growing again, everyone out and about in the gardens, doors and windows wide open, little or no fires – everyone in great form out and about walking, cycling etc – long may it last!
Only a few more days left to fill your shoebox for the Christmas appeal. “Team Hope” are doing great work in this regard.
Teady Hunt tells me that the removing of the ivy from the old church in Templeathea has now been completed with the old building (which it’s thought is the oldest in Ireland) looking very well indeed. Great praise and thanks must be extended to all those who, over the past few weeks, gave of “their time” and “their strength” pulling the ivy – no easy task I’m sure. Two ladies, Mary Sheahan and Linda Mumbray are especially thanked for coming along. The old building is 69ft long x 32ft wide with 4ft wide walls – worth a visit if you’re passing that way.
What a beautiful mass here in the church on Monday night “All Souls Day”. Family members lit candles for the 19 parishioners who were taken from them over the past 12 months – varying in from 90+ to just 40 years old. The choir added a lovely solemn atmosphere to the liturgy. Well done to Fr. Bowen and all those who contributed to this lovely annual remembrance mass.
The Sue Ryder charity shop in Newcastle West are looking for bric-a-brac, unwanted clothes, shoes etc. If you are doing a clear out before Christmas they would be delighted to accept your unwanted items. The money raised by this shop goes to the care of the elderly.
A fund-raising dance will be held at the Top of the Town on Saturday, November 21st for little Ella Aherne of Garrygloss (daughter Therese and Mike) who is presently receiving treatment. Joe O’Keeffe will provide the music on the night. Tickets are on sale locally and your support to help Ella and her family would be much appreciated. There will be lots of spot prizes on the night.
November 2nd – 6th is “Best Will in the World Week”. You are advised to make a will to protect your assets to help reduce inheritance tax and the impact residential care fees may have on your estate