By Peg Prendeville

It was like Christmas all over again last Saturday night in Knockdown. The bar and lounge was full to capacity as people gathered to celebrate 30 successful years in Ta’s pub. Ta and Ita greeted everybody at the door with a glass of champagne and a free drink. Hot and cold food was served and stories were shared. Many of the people there were not even born when the bar opened in 1985 and sadly many of those who were there have passed on to eternal life. Ta called to mind all of these and asked for a minute’s silence in their memory. It seemed an impossible task, such was the crowd, but silence he got. He thanked everybody for their support over the years especially Killeaney Soccer and Knockdown Vintage committees. He had a special thank you for his wife Ita for her support and understanding through the years. The banter continued through the night with some songs thrown in at the end for good measure. A cake in the shape of a pint of Guinness, 18 inches high, was admired by many before it was cut and dished out in the shop the following day. Long may the business continue to thrive.

Some neighbours are recuperating from various health problems at the moment but thankfully all are doing well and we are keeping Mary, Maureen, Kitty and Liam in our prayers for a full recovery for each of them.

The Diocesan Synod delegates are back in action again after the Christmas holidays. Much work goes on behind the scenes but it is hoped to involve all parishioners again very soon. That way nobody can say they were not asked for an opinion or that it was not welcome. So be on the alert!

Peg O’Grady’s month’s mind Mass was celebrated in her house last weekend with family and friends.