News Archive

22nd Oct. Following the recent launch of Macalla na Mainistreach, (now available in the shops) and the celebrations of the local Glor na nGael Coiste, we have published in our Photo Album some photos taken in 1963 when President DeValera visited Abbeyfeale and addressed a crowd of thousands in The Square. The photos are in the OLD ABBEYFEALE section of the Photo Album and will be of considerable interest to young and old alike. Get a magnifying glass and see how many people you can recognize! Again, if anyone has any old (or new) photographs that they would like to share, please contact us.

Michelle , daughter of Jer and Marion Roche , Meenkilly, is one of the latest recruits to the ranks of the Ban Garda following a passing-out ceremony at Templemore Garda Training Centre last week which was attended by her proud parents, and her many relatives and friends. Michelle will be based initially in Killarney.

In the local primary schools 7-a-side football competition, Fealeview had a big win over Mountcollins on a score of 4-14 to 1-3. The McEnery brothers were very much to the fore for Fealeview with Paraic contributing 1-8 and Eoin scoring 1-5. Other scorers were; Brian O`Connor, 0-1. Derry O`Connor, 2-0. Team; William O`Connor, Eoin O`Connell, John Lane, Paraic McEnery, Eoin McEnery, John O`Connor, Brian O`Connor, Derry O`Connor. Congratulations to Eoin O`Connell who has been selected to play for the West Limerick Primary Schools.

There was quite a good crowd on the opening night of Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night despite the bad weather and other local events which took place on the same night. The winners with 14 games were Jeffrey Fitzgerald, Louis McEnery and Maureen Fitzgerald. Two teams with twelve games each divided second prize. They were; Billy Broderick, Dan Joe Riordan and Frank Collins. Dan Cullhane, Peg Browne and Theresa O`Donnell. Table prizes were won by Pat Doran, Dan O`Connell and Dan Brosnihan. Ticket winners were Eamon Scannell, Liam Lane, Anita Danaher and Nell Gleeson. The door prize went to James McEnery. Meenkilly Card Game continues each Tuesday night at 9pm. Sympathy was extended to the families of the late Mickie Lane and Ita Sheehan, both recently deceased, who were great supporters of the card game.

In rugby, Abbeyfeale made it two wins from two starts in the Munster Junior League with a hard-earned victory over Douglas in The Grove on Sunday by 27 pts to 12. (See Sports section)

15th Oct. ; Abbeyfeale Library has a very attractive programme of events organized for Children`s Book Festival 2001 which runs from Monday 22nd October to Friday 2nd November. On Monday 22nd October at 4pm, the Spring Onion Puppet Threatre presents "Androcles And The Lion." a fun filled fantasy with a combination of beautifully crafted characters, exciting music, sharp dialogue and inventive set designs and which is suitable for everyone over the age of five years. Admission is free. On Tuesday 23rd October at 4pm, one of Ireland`s best known poets, Gabriel Fitzmaurice, will read some of his poetry and chat about his work. Author, Cora Harrison from County Clare, who has written the historical adventure series; the Drumshee Timeline books, will meet with invited school classes at the library on Thursday 25th Oct. The annual Abbeyfeale Primary School Quiz will be held on Friday 26th Oct. at 7pm. A Drum Workshop will take place on Tuesday 30th Oct at 3pm with Brian Mitchel talking about rhythm and percussion and inviting children to try out their skills on a variety of drums. On Thursday 1st November a very interesting talk entitled "Introduction To The Hunt Museum" will take place at 3pm, followed by a raffle for all who attend. A Drawing Workshop will be held on Friday 2nd Nov. at 3pm with artist, Michelle Hourigan, giving out tips and techniques to improve drawing skills. A Seal Exhibition will be held in the library during the book festival and is open to anyone interested in the study of these fascinating creatures. A Poster Competition will also be held in conjunction with the book festival and full detals of this are available from Abbeyfeale Library.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 6, 8, 20 and 21. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £18. They were Jeremiah Wrenn, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Andy Browne, Brosna Cross. Aidan Murphy, Radharc na Feile. Josie Keenan, Duagh. Peggy Boylan, Caherconnell. Mike Jameson, Dublin. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Tim Lane, Ballaugh. Joanne Fitzgerald, Killarney Road. Timmy O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Bill Cotter, c/o The Ramble Inn. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Maura Collins, The Hill. Catherine Broderick, Cratloe West. The jackpot now stands at £4,000 and the next drawtakes place in The Cellar Bar.

Abbeyfeale I.F.A. are holding a fundraising dance in aid of John Dillon at The Railway Bar on Friday 19th October at 9pm with music by Stevie Donegan.

Abbeyfeale Glor na nGael Coiste launched the 2001 edition of their annual magazine, Macalla na Mainistreach, at a function in the GAA club on last Friday night. . This edition is entitled the Comoradhissue and commemorates the activities and successes of Glor na nGael Mainister na Feile over the years. Macalla na Mainistreach is packed with local articles, poems, photographs etc, and is set to become another collectors item. It is now available in the shops. Mass in Irish was broadcast by Radio na Gaeltachta live from the Convent Secondary School on last Sunday morning.

In rugby, Abbeyfeale advanced to the quarter-finals of the Munster Junior Challenge Cup following a 13-11 win over St Senan`s. (See Sports section)

8th Oct; The Kostal celebrations at the weekend proved a great success and were well-attended. Unfortunately, we are unable to give a blow-by-blow account of proceedings as no formal invitations were issued to us local hacks!

The long nights are upon us again, and mark the start of the card-playing season for the winter months. On Tuesday next, October 16th, the weekly card game at Meenkilly School will resume at 9 o`clock with the usual good prizes on offer. Before the game starts, a Thanksgiving Mass will be celebrated at 8 o`clock All card players and local people will be very welcome.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 10, 15 and 20. There were two Match 3 winners and they each received £50. The jackpot now stands at £3,900 and the next draw takes place at The Winners Circle.

The death has occurred of JohnColbert , late of Convent Street. He is survived by his brother Moss, sisters Nell Madge}{\fs24 and by his nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Abbeyfeale Utd advanced to the second round of the Munster Junior Cup with victory over Kildimo on Saturday. Abbeyfeale took a first half lead when Joe Kelliher scored after twenty five minutes. Kildimo equalized when the usually-reliable Derry Quirke steered the ball into his own net. Extra time failed to resolve the issue, and Abbeyfeale finally went through 4-2 on penalties. Abbeyfeale Utd B were beaten 2-1 by Shountrade.

In rugby, Abbeyfeale made a positive start to their Munster Junior League campaign with 28-25 away win over Ennis. (Full match report to follow in Sports section)

1st Oct.; Abbeyfeale Glor na nGael Coiste will launch the 2001 edition of their annual magazine, Macalla na Mainistreach, at a function in the GAA club on next Friday night 12th October at 8pm. This edition is entitled the Comoradh issue and commemorates the activities and successes of Glor na nGael in Mainister na Feile over the years. The Coiste consists of an tSuir Delia, Aine Maria Mhic Dhonnacha, Norma Healy and Nioclas O`Lionard. Macalla na Mainistreach is packed with local articles, poems, photographs etc, and is set to become another collectors item. It will be available in the shops shortly.

Arrangments are now well advanced for the Kostal celebrations which take place in Abbeyfeale on the 6th and 7th October. A great weekend of music, song and dance is in prospect as people celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the Kostal Company arriving in the town.

Bridge has resumed each Thursday night at the Railway Bar starting at 8pm. The club announces that any new players will be most welcome.

Abbeyfeale Karate Club have announced that training for junior beginners (6-10 yrs) goes ahead each Tuesday night between 6.15pm and 6.45 pm in The Sports Complex.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 11, 12, 17 and 19. There were three match 3 winners and they each received £34. They were; Marian Hartnett, Knockbrack. Richard Fitzgerald, Railway Bar. Tom Brouder, c/o Timmy Riordan. Lucky Dip winners who received 320 each were Tom Morrissey, Knocknagoshel. Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Sile Hartnett, Kilconlea. Margaret McAuliffe, Brosna. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Paul Donovan, Abbeyfeale. Breda Walsh, Knocknagoshel. The jackpot now stands at £3,800 and the next draw takes place at The Railway Bar

West Limerick Set-Dancing Club will hold a Set Ceili in The Convent Hall on this Sunday 7th October at 4pm with music by Michael Sexton. All sets will be called.

Abbeyfeale Golfing Socety travel to Castlegregory on this Saturday 6th October. The tee is booked between 10 am and 11 am.

The death has occurred of William (Bill) Harnett, Knocknasna. He is survived by his sisters, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

In rugby, Abbeyfeale defeated Highfield in the Challenge Cup. (See sports section)

24th Sept; The Kostal factory in Mountmahon celebrates its twentieth year in Abbeyfeale on next Saturday 6th October and will mark the occasion with a festive gathering of employees and their families at a function in a special marquee which will be erected close to the plant. Owner of the factory, Mr Helmut Kostal, will be in attendance, and invitations have also been issued to Taoiseach Bertie Aherne, Tainiste Mary Harney, MEP Gerard Collins, and various other local and national dignitaries. RTE will also send a film crew to record the event for its "Nationwide" programme. The local community are providing flags, bunting, road signs, etc., and various businesses are sponsoring stage shows and other entertainments for what should be a carnival-like atmosphere in the town. Kostal own twelve factories worldwide and employ over 9,000 people. The Abbeyfeale plant employs 1,100 workers, and manufacture parts for various motor cars including Volkswagon, BMW and other leading brands.

Both local Councillors , Sean Broderick and M ichael O`Kelly,} have welcomed the decision of Limerick County Council to advertise this week for tenders for the Abbeyfeale Urban Renewal Project. The project is estimated to cost approximately £1.5 million and it is anticipated that work will begin during November 2001 and will conclude in Spring 2002. Discussions will be held with traders in regard to the phasing of the works, with the primary emphasis being causing as little disruption as possible to the town. Purchase of a site for the development of a car park is ongoing. A number of sites are still under consideration in this regard.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 16, 17 and 18. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received £20. They were Patrick Carroll, Rockchapel. Eddie O`Connell, Collins Park. Paddy Cahill, Knocknasna. Sean Brosnihan, Devon Road. Michael Quigley jnr, The Hill. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Sarah Sheehan, Kilconlea Upper. Patrick Lane snr, c/o Jack Murphy. Paddy Sheehan, c/o Paddy O`Sullivan. Cora Mulcahy, Newcastlewest. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Caroline Collins, Tullig South. Tom Mann, Abbeyfeale. The jackpot now stands at £3,700 and the next draw takes place in O`Connell`s bar.

Ceili and set-dancing classes will recommence in Fr Casey`s GAA Clubhouse on Thursday October 4th at 8 pm (beginners) and 8.30 pm (beginners and advanced)

Abbeyfeale rugby team created something of an upset last Sunday when they defeated Young Munster in Limerick and took home the Cyril McMahon Cup. (See Sports section)

Next Sunday Abbeyfeale entertain Highfield in The Grove in the first round of the Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup. The game kicks-off at 2pm and a commemorative match programme will be available at the gate.

In soccer, Abbeyfeale Utd defeated Old Mill by 3 goals to 2 in the Youths Cup.

Fr Casey`s hopes of winning back-to-back senior county football titles were cruelly dashed in Kilmallock on Saturday when an injury-time goal from Mungret robbed them of a place in the final. Leading by 7 points to 5 at half time, Fr Casey`s dominated for long periods in the second half but missed some vital scores. They seemed to have done enough to win when still leading by 3 points with just two minutes remaining. However a pointed free and that heartbreaking late goal from Mugret finally stripped them of the title that they had won so impressively last year.

Team; Toddy McMahon, Andrew Scannell, Conor McCarthy, Niall McEnery, Jerry Lyons, Gerard O`Connor, Liam Galvin, Kevin O`Connor, Liam Quirke, John Boyle (0-1) Shay McAuliffe (0-2) Stephen Murphy, Tom Fitzgerald (0-7) John Lenihan (0-1) Kevin C O`Connor (0-1) Sub; Padraic Browne.

17th Sept; As a mark of respect to all who lost their lives in the recent tragedies in America, local shops, schools, pubs, businesses, etc in Abbeyfeale remained closed on Friday. Various religious services also took place at which prayers were said for the dead, injured and missing.

The local Glor na nGael Coiste plan to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Mainister na Feile`s historic win in the first ever Glor na nGael National Competition which took place in 1961. An exciting and entertaining weekend has been arranged, commencing on Friday 12th October. Events include the launch of Macalla na Mainstreach 2001 and the broadcasting of Aifreann as Gaeilge by RTE which will be celebrated by an tAthair Michael de Liostun. An Mainchin Seoige will lecture on the travelling teachers of Irish and there will also be a photographic exhibition as well as music, song and dance in various venues around the town.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 4, 10 and 12. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £18. They were ; Pat Lane, Clash. Gerard Sheehy, New Street. Paddy Sheehan, Strand. Brandon O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Paddy Moran, c/o Jack Murphy. Tom Nelligan, Kilconlea Lower. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Dermot Enright, c/o The Bridge Inn. Martin O`Keefe, c/o The Corner House. Dick Mahoney, Killarney Road. Noel McEnery, Abbeyfeale. Lucky Dip winners who received 310 each were Damian Wall, Mountmahon. Josie Blair, Dromtrasna. The jackpot now stands at £3,600 and the next draw takes place in The Corner House.

The death has occurred of Nora Dennison (nee Healy) wife of the late James Dennison, Convent Street. She is survived by her sons Jim, Frank and Dee, daughter Ann (Roche) brother Tom, sister Sr. M Consillio and by her nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. The death has also occurred of Colm O`Cleirigh, Knockbrack. He is survived by his wife Catherine, daughter Clodagh, son Oisin, mother Patsy, brothers Eoin, Padraig and Cormac, sisters Maedhbh and Norita, and by his aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Abbeyfeale Rugby team defeated Castleisland by 19 pts to 5. (See Sports section)

Limerick hurlers retained their All Ireland U/21 title with a one point win over Wexford on Sunday.

10th Sept.; It is proposed to form an Abbeyfeale Branch of the Manchester United Supporters Club. A public meeting has been organized in Donal`s Bar on this Friday night, 14th September at 8.30 pm. All supporters and aspiring supporters of the Red Devils have been invited to attend.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 15, 21 and 24. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received £25. They were Liam Stoute, Kilconlea Lower. Eleanor Kelly, Collins Park. Liam Woulfe, Newcastlewest. Conchubhair O`Riuin, Kilfinane. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Garret Harnett, The Hill. Breda O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Sarah McAuliffe, Knocknagoshel. John Ward, Ballaugh. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Sean O`Connor, Knocknasna. Kathleen Keane, Ardagh. The jackpot now stands at £3,500 and the next draw will be held in Cryle View Bar.

The death has occurred of Bernadette O`Sullivan (nee Colbert) Killarney, and formerly of New Street, Abbeyfeale. She is survived by her husband Donie, sons Stuart, Danny and Alan, daughter-in-law Rachel, grand-daughter Jordie, parents Moss and Lily Colbert, brothers Maurice and John, sisters Margaret, Rosemary, Marian, Noelle, Majella and Claudette, and by her relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.

The death has also occurred of Catherine Fitzgerald, Ward Sister at Limerick Regional Hospital and formerly from Dromtrasna. She is survived by her brother Edmund and by her sisters, relatives and a large circle of friends.

West Limerick Set Dancing Club will hold a Set Ceili at The Convent Hall on this Sunday 16th September at 4pm with music by Taylors Cross.

Abbeyfeale rugby team had no game last Sunday (See Sports section)

Fr Casey`s are just a couple of weeks away from their showdown with Mungret in the semi-final of the senior county football championship. Interest in this game is intense and training continues in The Inch several evenings each week as the team approaches peak fitness. Fr Casey`s are the present county champions and will be endeavouring to create history by retaining their title. Mungret, however, are expected to provide them with stiff opposition.

In soccer, Abbeyfeale Utd defeated near-neighbours Glantine by 2 goals to 1 in the premiership. Goals either side of half time by Irish U/17 international, Denis Behan, sealed victory for Abbeyfeale.

3rd Sept; Traffic through the town was again heavy last Sunday morning. However, contrary to the previous weekend when both the Fleadh Cheoil in Listowel and the Tralee Festival were the main objectives of the travelling masses, this time the flow was in the opposite direction as the annual exodus of football supporters from North Kerry commenced and headed for the All Ireland semi-finals in Croke Park. From early on Sunday morning, cars, coaches and mini-buses, all gaily be-decked with green and gold buntin and flags and with horns blaring, arrived in from Listowel, Knocknagoshel, Headley`s Bridge and Castleisland, and headed in convoy through the town towards Limerick. It was a different story on Sunday evening however, as a more chastened group of fans slipped slowly in to the town and stopped off at several local taverns to deaden the pain of defeat with a few strong libations. Still shell-shocked, they were unable to explain Kerry`s second-half collapse and capitulation to the men from Meath. It is going to be a long, cold winter in The Kingdom.

West Limerick Set Dancing Club are back after the summer break and will hold a Set Ceili at The Convent Hall in Abbeyfeale on Sunday 16th September at 4 pm with music by Taylors Cross. All sets called and everyone welcome.

The death has occurred in Edenderry, Co. Offaly, of Colm Danaher formerly of Abbeyfeale. He is survived by his brother Kevin and by his nephews, nieces, relatves and friends.

Fr Casey`s won their second successive Bord na nOg U/12 West Limerick A football championship with a 1-8 to 0-1 victory over Newcastlewest in Askeaton Team; Sean Sheehan, Sean Harnett, James Lane, Eoin O`Connell, John Paul O`Keefe, Eoin Joy (capt) Eoin McEnery, Jonathan O`Donnell, David Ward, Donnagh Kelly, Padraig McEnery, Michael Sheehan, Kieran McCarthy, Thomas Fitzgerald, Padraig Enright. Subs; Conor Lane, Sean Flavin, Peter Healy, Conor Healy, Michael Roche, Thomas Gleeson. M Reidy. The team is managed by Pat Scannell and the selector is James Joy.

Abbeyfeale Utd were beaten 3-1 by Shanagolden in the premiership on Sunday. The B team staged an amazing second half recovery to defeat Creeves 4-3 in division 1.

At the thirty second National Community Games Finals in Mosney, Tim Tobin won gold for Abbeyfeale in the U/8 60m sprint. Aidan Murphy also qualified for the finals of the discus and gave an excellent performance in a high-class field. A third qualifier, Eamon Leahy, was due to compete in the 1500m but was forced to withdraw.

In rugby, Abbeyfeale went down narrowly by 18 pts to 15 to Richmond in the Transfield Cup. (Match report to follow in Sports section.)

27th August; Traffic moved bumper to bumper through the town at the weekend as record crowds headed for Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Listowel and the Roses Festival in Tralee. The fine weather contributed to the huge influx of visitors and local hostels, bed and breakfast outlets and hotels were all fully booked, while shopkeepers and traders also reported a big increase in business. Gardai kept the traffic moving smoothly with strategically placed No Parking signs and members installed on point duty at busy intersections. The Roses passed through the town on Friday afternoon and were given an enthusiastic reception.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 11, 12, 18 and 19. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £18. They were Josie Keane, Collins Park. Maurice Sheehan, Templeglantine. Breda Doody, Knockbrack. Liam O`Donnell, Kilmorna. Linda Broderick, Purt. Noelle Broderick, Collins Park. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Pat Delacey, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Richard Woulfe, Kilconlea Upper. Noreen Flynn, Banard. Ned Fitzgerald, Coolaneelig. Lucky Dip winners who received 310 each were Lisa Herlihy, Knocknagoshel. Maura Doughton, Duagh. The jackpot now stands at £3,400 and the next draw takes place in The Bridge Inn.

A Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebebrated by Fr Tim Galvin in The Rugby Club on this Thursday night, 30th August at 8 pm. Fr Tim and colleagues will speak about their missionary work. Refreshments will be served and everybody is welcome. Fr Tim wishes to thank everybody for their generosity towards his missionary work and for the continual supportof the people of this area.

The death has occurred in her ninety-ninth year of Bridie Quirke (nee McCoy) Kilconlea Upper. She is mourned by her loving family, relatives and a large circle of friends. The death also occurred in her ninetieth year in England of Sr. Hanora M Moriarty of the Daughters of the Holy Ghost. She was daughter of the late James Moriarty (ex-station master and insurance broker) and Anastasia Moriarty (Nee Gahan) The Station House, Abbeyfeale. She was sister to the late Rev. Fr. William Moriarty PP, Mauritius and Patrick Moriarty, Wales. She is survived by her brother James in England and by her nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

For anyone interested in travelling to the Kerry V Meath All Ireland semi-final in Croke Park, a bus will travel up on Sunday morning. Further details from Steve Smith at The Ploughman`s bar.

Defending champions, Fr Casey`s were narrowly defeated by Ballylanders in Kilmallock on Sunday in the county senior championship on a score of 0-12 to 0-11. However, Fr Casey`s have already qualified for the semi-final stages and the draw for this is as follows; Fr Casey`s V Mungret. Ballylanders V Drom/Broadford.

Abbeyfeale rugby team defeated Newcastlewest in the first round of the Transfield Cup. (see Sports section)

21st August; There was a huge attendance at The Winners Circle bar on last Thursday night for the Charity Pub Quiz. Quizmaster, Paddy Quille, had a varied and interesting selection of questions prepared, some easy some hard, with subjects to suit all tastes. Answering was of the highest order and, in a very exciting and tense finish, it all came down to a sudden-death playoff, with several teams still in contention. All proceeds for the night were donated to the Milford Day Care Centre. The recent charity football match between Abbeyfeale Guards & Firemen and Abbeyfeale Publicans raised £4000 and this was presented to the day care centre during the quiz. Dave Browne acted as MC for the night and, at the conclusion of the quiz, he conducted a Charity Auction with many interesting items coming under the hammer. These included framed pictures of Istabraque and Gallileo signed by the owners, trainers and connections, and the boots allegedly worn by Micky Sheehy when he scored that famous goal against Paddy Cullen, as well as numerous signed footballs, hurleys, jerseys, photographs, etc. The auction raised over £4000 and, with the proceeds from the charity match, the quiz, the raffle, and various other donations, the final tally for the night should reach £10,000. Representatives of Milford Day Care Centre expressed their appreciation for the efforts made by local organizers in arranging the various charity events. The organizing committee thanked everyone who participated in the quiz and also all the sponsors and those who donated spot-prizes and items for the auction.

A Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebebrated by Fr Tim Galvin in The Rugby Club on this Thursday night, 30th August at 8 pm. Fr Tim and colleagues will speak about their missionary work. Refreshments will be served and everybody is welcome. Fr Tim wishes to thank everybody for their generosity towards his missionary work and for the continual supportof the people of this area.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 1, 3, 19 and 21. There were two Match 3 winners and they each received £50. They were Joseph Power, Knocknagoshel and Kerry Histon, Orchard Drive. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Eoghan O`Connor, Knockbrack. John O`Connor, Knocknagoshel. Eileen Broderick, Cratloe West. Jock Phillips, Tournafulla. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were John Lane, New Street. Margaret Woulfe, Ballaugh. The jackpot is now worth £3,200 and the next draw takes place in the Ramble Inn.

Pupils from the three post-primary schools in the parish received their Leaving Certificate results last week.

An Abbeyfeale Rugby Team made history in Thomond Park last week when winning The Plate section of the All Ireland Tag Rugby competition. This was the first year of the competition with teams from all over Ireland taking part. Having lost to St Mary`s College, Terenure by 4 tries to 3, Abbeyfeale defeated Blackrock (7-2) and drew with Aer Lingus (5-5) They were then placed in The Plate competition where they defeated Ballbriggan (7-2) and went on to beat DLSP in the final by 6 tries to 3. The winning squad was; David Goode (Capt) Packie O`Connor, Michael Foote, Dan Gilmore, Dan O`Connor, Redmond Quigley, Morgan McMahon, Conor McMahon, Diarmuid O`Leary, Joe Beston, Mike Quirke, Sean Murphy. (See Sports Section)

13th August; There was a large Abbeyfeale attendance at Tralee Track on last Friday night for the running of the final of the Con Murphy Memorial 525 Sweep. The race, which is sponsored by The Friends Of Con Murphy, was worth £1,500 to the winner and was won by trap 1, Seikcin Hit, owned by Timothy Carr and Gerard McCarthy and priced at 7/2 in a time of 29.20. The final of the Paddy Byrne Memorial 550 also took place on the same night. This race was sponsored by Patsy Byrne and was worth £4000 to the winner. It was won by trap 1, Chartwell Dubh, in a time of 30.06 and priced at 3/1.

Abbeyfeale Golfing Society travelled to Charleville Golf Club last Saturday and the results were as follows; 1st. Ned O`Mahony (24) 44 points. 2nd. Brian Lenihan (8) 41 points. 3rd. Fergus O`Donoghue (19) 39 points. Category 1. John Quirke (12) 35 points. Category 2. Billy O`Rourke (20) 39 points. Free fees winner;. Gerard Foley. The next outing is the Captain`s Prize to Ballyneety on the 15th September.

The death occurred recently of Jeremiah (Jereen) Healy, late of Knocknasna. He is survived by his wife Noreen, sons, daughters, brother, relatives and a large circle of friends.

In conjunction with the World Special Olympics 2003 which will be held in Ireland, a meeting will take place in The Devon Inn Hotel on Monday 20th August at 8 pm. This meeting has been called to discuss arrangements for hosting, transporting, fund raising, providing training facilities etc. for this very worthwhile event. The meeting is open to all, and anyone interested in helping in any way is invited to attend.

A Charity Pub Quiz will be held in The Winners Circle bar on this Thursday night, 16th August commencing at 9.30 sharp. Paddy Quille will be asking the questions, and there will also be an auction of interesting sporting items. There will be many attractive prizes for the quiz and raffle winners, and all proceeds will be presented to the Milford Day Care Centre.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 9, 11, 20 and 24. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received £20. They were Aisling & Eimer Lyons, Knocknagoshel. Kevin Doody, Rockchapel. Derry Quirke, Ballaugh. Thomas Dore, Knocknagoshel. Noel & Daniel Daly, Knockbrack. There were four Lucky Dip winners who also received £20 each. They were Seamus Lenihan, Purt. James Murphy, Ballybehy. Noreen Murphy, Knocknagoshel. Cyril O`Brien, Cahir. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Jimmy McCoy, Collins Park. Seamus Finnegan, Templeglantine.The jackpot now stands at £3,100 and the next draw takes place in The Failte bar.

Abbeyfeale rugby team had a good attendance for their first training session at The Grove on last Friday night under coach, Michael Foote and trainer, Jerry Casey. The new season commences very shortly now and the first game is only a couple of weeks away. It is hoped that the attendance at these training sessions will increase further, and that all players will put in a big effort this season. Any new players will also be very welcome.

Fr Casey`s had a good win over Galbally at The Inch in the minor football championship on a score of 2-9 to 1-5.

The newly-named Limerick Desmond Football League kicks-off on this Friday 17th August. Abbeyfeale Utd are at home to Glin Rovers in their first premiership game with a 7pm start. Abbeyfeale Utd B are away to to Adare Utd in the League Cup, also at 7 pm.

6th August; St Ita`s Terrace 50th anniversary celebrations last weekend proved to be a great success and enjoyed huge support, both from local people and from the many friends and visitors who travelled to Abbeyfeale especially for the occasion. The celebrations opened with a tree-planting ceremony and a cheese and wine reception in St Ita`s Terrace on Saturday evening. This was followed by a visit to Reilig Ida Naofa where prayers were recited at the graves of those residents of the terrace who have passed on. It was then back to The Winners Circle Bar for an evening of music, song and dance with local musicians, singers and performers providing excellent and lively entertainment. Mass was celebrated at the rugby club on Sunday night followed by a special presentation to the original inhabitants of the terrace. The night concluded with a most enjoyable dance and buffet with music by Billy Curtin and a 70`s disco. The organizers of the events expressed themselves delighted with the weekend and thanked the large numbers of people who had gathered for the celebrations.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 8, 9, 19 and 21. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received £25. They were Michael Broderick, Cratloe West. Con Quirke, Mountcollins. Jan Sorohan, Athea. Ben Curtin , The Orchard. Lucky D ip winners who received £20 each were Peg Collins, Knocknacrohy. Pat O`Connor,Knockbrack4 Tim Drea, Galbally. DD Lane, The Hill. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Patrick Roche, Knockbrack. Brigid McNamara Dromtrasna Collins. The jackpot now stands at £3,000 and the next draw takes place in Julia Twomy`s bar.

The death has occurred of William (Willie) Curtin Meenahela, former Manager at Meenahela Creamery. He is survived by his wife Ciss, son Patrick, daughters Elizabeth and Geraldine and by his brothers, sisters, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Abbeyfeale Utd player, Denis Behan, scored his first goal for the U/17 Republic of Ireland soccer team against Galatasaray in the final of the British Telecom Trophy in the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland last week. The Republic won the game 2-1.

Abbeyfeale Golfing Society travel to Charleville on this Saturday 11th August. The tee is booked between 10.30 am and 12 noon. The current rankings for the Golfer of the Year are; Thomas O`Hanlon (36) Jack Fitzgerald (34) Gerard Foley (29) John Quirke (28)

Maureen Murphy, a member of Abbeyfeale AC, will represent Munster in the U/15 girls high jump competition at an athletics meeting in Wales next week.

30th July; The residents of St Ita`s Terrace report everything in readiness for their 50th anniversary celebrations which take place this weekend. The invitations have all gone out. The band is booked, and the food and drink has been prepared. Organizer, Richie Prendiville, says that there has been a tremenduous response from people over the past week, with numerous enquiries and requests for tickets arriving from England, America, Canada and from all parts of Ireland. The celebrations commence with a tree-planting ceremony on this Saturday evening 4th August, followed by a night of music, song and dance at The Winners Circle. Mass will be celebrated in the Rugby Club on Sunday evening at 8.30 pm, after which, a special presentation will be made to the residents. This will be followed by a dance with Billy Curtin providing the music.

Local horse racing enthusiasts headed for the Galway Races this week and resumed their annual joust with the bookmaking fraternity. Many Abbeyfeale people take holidays at this time of the year and spend the week in Galway. There have been the usual rumours of massive gambles and large sums of money changing hands. However, most of these stories are greatly exagerated but it all adds to the colour of a great sporting occasion.

Limerick senior hurlers made their exit from this year`s All Ireland Championship when beaten by Wexford in Croke Park on Sunday on a score of 4-10 to 2-15. Limerick led by two points in injury time but a Wexford goal from a 21 yard free robbed them of a place in the semi-final. Kerry and Dublin renew rivalry next Sunday in the All Ireland series in Thurles.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 1, 9, 11 and 24. There were nine Match 3 winners and they each received £12. They were Marie Collins, Tullig South. Breda Aherne, Convent Road. Catriona Lyons, Killarney Road. Hanna Fitzgerald, Devon Road. Stephen O`Brien, Tralee. Diarmuid Flynn, Cederville. Julia Dunworth, Templeglantine. Louise Scanlon, Tullig North. Eddie Carmody, Strand. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Mike Lane, Bridge Street. Ann Marie Collins, Grove Road. Pat Roche, Kilconlea Lower. Jerry O`Connor, Bogmount. Lucky Dip winners who each received £10 were Dan Fitzgerald, The Lighthouse. Joe Flynn, c/o Flynn`s Cabs. The jackpot now stands at £2,900 and the next draw takes place in Donal & Ann`s bar.

Abbeyfeale Rugby Club announce that training for the new season will commence on Friday 10th August in The Grove at 8pm under coach, Michael Foote and trainer, Jerry Casey. It is hoped for a good turn-out of players, as the first match is just a few weeks away. Any new players wishing to join will also be very welcome.

The death has occurred of Larry (Sonny) Collins, Killarney Road and late of Main Street. He is survived by his wife Peg, sons Donal, Maurice and Vincent, daughters Annette, Mairead, Siobhan and Sheila, and by his brothers, sisters, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Fr Casey`s remain on course to retain their county senior football title following a comprehensive victory over Gerald Griffins at the weekend. The Fealesiders are now assured of at least a semi-final berth.

The Chernobyl Children`s Aid would like to thank everyone who supported their recent dance at The Railway Bar and also their Church Gate collection and Coffee Morning.

23rd July ; Traffic through the town has increased considerably over the last couple of weeks as we enter the main holiday season. Guest houses and hotels in the locality report brisk business, while shops, public houses etc. are also enjoying the benefits of the passing tourist trade. Main destinations again this year appear to be Dingle, Killarney and the Ring of Kerry.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 1, 4, 8 and 14. There were three Match 3 winners and they each received £34. They were; Maurice William Harnett, Knockbrack. Shay McAuliffe, Banard. Patrick O`Sullivan, Mountcollins. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were; David O`Connell, Kilmanahan East. Sarah Curtin, Knocknagoshel. Una Christopher, Newcastlewest. Serena O`Donnell, Kilconlea Upper. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Charlie O`Keefe, c/o The Bridge Inn. Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. The jackpot now stands at £2,800 and the next draw takes place in Johnny Bobb`s bar.

The death has occurred of Michael (Mikey Noble) O`Connor, late of Grogeen. He is survived by his brothers Paty and Danny, sisters Eileen, Kathleen and Nonie, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Chaplet of Divine Mercy; Divine Mercy pictures are now available from Jim Browne, Main Street, Abbeyfeale. Phone 068-31803.

An exhibition pertaining to the Great Southern Trail is on display at Abbeyfeale Library presently.

Abbeyfeale Golf Society head for Ardagh on next Saturday. The tee has been booked between 12 pm and 1.30 pm.

History was made at Tullamore Harriers Stadium when St Ita`s U/8 boys won All Ireland silver in the relay race. The team was Shane O`Connor, Dillon Reid, Tim Tobin and Brian O`Connell. Shane O`Connor also took silver in the Ball Throw while Grace Crowley took the gold medal in the U/12 600m.

Abbeyfeale Utd player, Denis Behan, has been selected on the Republic of Ireland U/17 squad which competes in the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland this week. Abbeyfeale Utd are also relaunching its Lufe Membership drive shortly and will be appealing for members.

16th July; St Ita`s Terrace in Abbeyfeale celebrates it`s fiftieth anniversary this year. To commemorate the occasion, residents have organized a series of events during the first weekend in August. The celebrations kick-off with a tree planting ceremony at St Ita`s Terrace on Saturday 4th August at 8.30 pm. It is hoped that local county councillors and various dignitaries will be in attendance as well as members of the public.

Following the tree planting ceremony, the gathering will move across the road to the Winners Circle bar for an evening of craic agus ceoil. Musical entertainment and refreshments have been organized and it is hoped that some of the local talent can also be persuaded to perform their party pieces. An unforgettable night of music, stories, song and dance is in prospect!

On Sunday evening, 5th August, Mass will be celebrated at the Rugby Club at 8.30 pm. This will be open to the public. Following the Mass, presentations will be made to the various families to mark the fiftieth anniversary of St It`s Terrace. It is also hoped to take photographs of the last surviving six people from the original inhabitants of the terrace.

A dance will commence in the Rugby Club at 10 pm with music provided by Billy Curtin and his band. This should prove another memorable night. It is open to all, and tickets are available at £5 each. Refreshents, etc. will be served and a full house is expected, with many visitors and exiles arriving from overseas, as well as from various parts of Ireland.

Tickets are now on sale in various shops or can be purchased from committee members. Contact Richie Prendiville at 068-31459 or Paddy Finucane at 068-32036. Further details are also availabe on the local Abbeyfeale On Line web site at http://homepage.eircom.net/~abbeyfeale1,or send an e-mail to dromtrasna@hotmail.com.

A full account of the happenings (real or imagined) over the weekend will be published here, and we hope to have numerous photographs of the occasion in our PHOTO ALBUM. You have been warned!

A new Information and Employment Resource Centre was officially opened on Main Street last week by local County Councillor, Sean Broderick, who is also a Board member of West Limerick Resources. The new centre will provide a wide range of services and advice for those seeking employment and, as well as the regular staff, FAS placement officers will also be in attendance at the centre on the first and third Monday of every month.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 4, 5, 9 and 18. There were ten Match 3 winners and they each received £10. They were; Michael Collins, c/o The Cellar Bar. Eily Hartnett, Kilconlea. Geraldine Murphy, Collins Park. (twice) Maurice Stack, Templeglantine. Cathy Gilmore, The Hill. James Ryan, Foynes. Gerard Murphy, Ballaugh. Majella Murphy, Collins Park. Eddie Carmody, Strand. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Tim Finucane, St Ita`s Terrace. Liam Cotter, Knocknagoshel. Marie Lyons, Dromtrasna. Donal Brosnahan, Devon Road Cross. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Denis Lane, Grague and Paul Ward, Main Street. The jackpot now stands at £2,700 and the next draw will be held in Jack Ryan`s bar.

The Tommy Mann Memorial Cup for best overall athlete at the recent St. Marys Boys School sports day was Eoin Joy (5th class) The Grove.

Fr Casey`s maintained their unbeaten record in this year`s county senior football championship with a 0-11 to 0-5 win over Oola at the weekend. The minor footballers defeated Pallasgreen by 2010 to 0-6.

Kerry defeated Cork in the Munster Final in Pairc Ui Chaoimh by 0-19 to 1-13 on Sunday. Limerick hurlers have been drawn against Wexford in the All Ireland series.

Abbeyfeale Rugby Club had a good attendance at their Players Meeting in The Grove last Friday night. Training is set to resume early in August and new players will be welcome.

9th July; There was relief among most people in Abbeyfeale following Limerick County Council`s announcement that they had finally given the green light to the town renewal plan. It had been feared that funding for the project had been lost following objections and escalating costs, which had risen from an estimated £1.5m to £4.75m. It has now been decided to carry out the plan in three phases. The first phase will commence in October and will include work in The Square and at the junction at Joy`s Corner, as well as traffic calming and increased parking facilities.

People from Abbeyfeale will be able to tax their cars in Newcastlewest from next October instead of having to travel to Limerick, following news that the Department of Motor Tax is to be decentralized and moved to Newcastlewest.

Over thirty Chernobyl Children are at present spending a month`s holidays in the Abbeyfeale and Templeglantine areas. The visit has been arranged by Bridget O`Connor from Templeglantine and Kathleen Collins from Abbeyfeale, both members of the local Chernobyl Children`s Aid organization. A fund-raising dance will be held at The Railway Bar on Friday 20th July, which many of the children will attend.

Fr Casey`s boosted their hopes of retaining the senior county football title with a three point win over Hospital/Herbertstown at The Gaelic Grounds. They trailed by a point with just ten minutes to go, before an opportunist goal from Kevin O`Connor set up the victory by 1-12 to 2-6.

At the recent AGM of the Desmond Football League a number of rule changes were introduced. The most significant of these was a proposal by Abbeyfeale United that the name of the league be changed. It will now be known as the Limerick Desmond Football League. The outgoing Management Committee was again re-elected, with Abbeyfeale man, Frank Nelligan, keeping the office of PRO.

President of Abbeyfeale Golf Club, Jer Long, expressed himself delighted with the big turn-out for his President`s Prize competition last week. It was won by Thomas O`Hanlon (17) with 40 points.

Abbeyfeale Rugby Club are holding a Players Meeting at The Grove on this Friday night 13th July at 8pm. All players are requested to attend. New players are also welcome. N.B. If there are any players in Australia or New Zealand reading this - you will be particularly welcome. We will even accept retired All Blacks and Wallabies!

2nd July; Gallant Limerick failed narrowly against Tipperary in the Munster senior hurling final played before a full house in Pairc Ui Chaoimh yesterday. Tipp started favourites but Limerick played out of their collective skins and, had they not missed several relatively easy scoring chances, must surely have ran out convincing winners. It was level, 2-8 to 1-11, at halt time. Tipp raced in to a three point lead early in the second half, but then failed to score for the next twenty one minutes as Limerick ran riot. However, The Shannonsiders failed to deliver a decisive knockout blow. The scores were again level with just nine minutes to go, but Tipperary grabbed two late points to clinch the title by 2-16 to 1-17. Limerick now advance to the quarter-finals of the All Ireland series and their next game will be in Croke Park in a couple of weeks time. And, on yesterday`s performance, few will write them off just yet! Meanwhile Kerry play Cork in the Munster football final next Sunday and we will carry a report here.

Limerick County Council`s Local Area Plan for Abbeyfeale is at present on display in Abbeyfeale Library and is available for inspection by the public during library opening hours. The draft plan sets out development policies for the next six years and includes proposals on housing, tourism, local amenities, recreation facilities, traffic congestion, etc. Anyone wishing to make submissions to Limerick County Council concerning the draft plan should do so within the next couple of weeks.

Billy O`Callaghan of Cal`s Fruit & Veg in The Square has rented out his premises after twenty years of trading. Cal will concentrate on his other fruit and veg ventures in Killarney and may even manage to get in an occasional game of golf!. We wish him the best of luck with his new ventures and trust that he will still visit Abbeyfeale from time to time. (See Photo Album)

Go-kart racing is the latest sport to hit Abbeyfeale with the opening of Abbey Speedway Karting Centre at Mountmahon. This venture is the brainchild of the four O`Rourke brothers; Kevin, Billy, Tom and Owen. The racing track, which cost in the region of £250,00 and was designed by the brothers themselves, has been passed by the Irish Go-carting Federation and is already open to the public. It is hoped to run various local and national competitions in the near future.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot as not won last week. The winning numbers were 15, 16, 22 and 24. There were three Match 3 winners and they each received £34. They were Marie Burke, Ballingarry. Sheila Enright, Purt. Norma Guiney, Rochchapel. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Christy Sheehy, Duagh. Carmel Broderick, Athea. Kathleen McCoy, Collins Park. Jane O`Mahony, Knocknasna. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Michael Enright, Purt. James O`Mahony, c/o The Bridge Inn. The jackpot now stands at £2,500 and the next draw takes place in Jack Riordan`s Bar.

The death has occurred of Maurice (Moss) O`Connell, Dromlegach. Interment was in St Mary`s Cemetery, Abbeyfeale following Requiem Mass at the Church of the Assumption. He is survived by his wife Peg and by his sons daughters, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. The death also occurred of Simon McCarthy, Clash and formerly of Dromtrasna South. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, sons John and Simon, daughter Patricia and by his relatives and a large circle of friends.

Abbeyfeale Golfing Society have an outing to Killorglin on this Saturday 7th July. The tee is booked between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. The competition for Golfer Of The Year is hotting up with the leading positions as follows; Joint first - Gerard Foley and Timmy O`Connor, (both on 29 points.) John Quirke (25 pts) Peter English (24 pts) Tomas O`Hanlon (23 pts) Mike Casey (22 pts)

The final draw of the current series of Spin & Win being run by Abbeyfeale Coursing Club took place in The Corner House bar. The winners were; Pat Herbert, Kilflynn - £55. Leanne Quirke, Kilconlea Upper -£65. Declan Prendiville, Tarbert - £55. Mossie Collins, Knocknasna - £60. David Murphy, Lyrocrompane - £60. The draw will resume again in the Autumn when the first contestants will be; Paddy Cahill, Knocknasna. Bertie Murphy, Tullig. Eileen Harnett, The Hill. Brian & Willie Pa, c/o The Ramble Inn. Dick Fitzgerald, Railway Bar. Abbeyfeale Coursing Club wish to thank everyone who helped in making the draw such an outstanding success during the season.

Fr Casey`s defeated St Kieran`s by 2-6 to 1-7 in the county minor football league premier division.

Mon. 25th June; Limerick footballers finally bowed out of this year`s championship following a ten point defeat at the hands of Westmeath in the Gaelic Grounds. Limerick rarely scaled the heights that they reached against All Ireland Champions, Kerry, in Killarney the previous Sunday (They trailed by just 3 points here with fifteen minutes left to play, and lost by 8 points) Next Sunday, the hurlers take centre stage. Yes, folks! Its the Munster Hurling Final between Limerick and Tipperary in Pairc Ui Chaoimh. Hard to believe that Limerck have not won a senior All Ireland hurling title since 1973. Tipperary will start warm favourites but we take Limerick to lift the title and march on. (You can get odds of 2/1 with Lal Browne - but you will have to be quick! Incidentally, those of you living outside Ireland can get a live commmentary on the internet by going to our Out And About section and linking in to Limerick Radio. We will carry a match report here next Monday.

Three Abbeyfeale women competed in the ladies Mini-Marathon in Dublin recently and collected a sizeable sum for charity. The three were Carol Murphy, Eileen Woulfe and Mary O`Connor. They all completed the course and raised £1,170 which they donated to Milford Hospice. They would like to thank all their sponsors and anyone who helped in any way.

Five of last year`s Leaving Certificate students from St Joseph`s Secondary School in Abbeyfeale have been awarded University Scholarships based on their results. Caitriona Cummins and Caitriona Healyare both studying Law in T.C.D. Rosie Galvin and Maura Crowley are studying Physiotherapy, also at T.C.D. and Geraldine O`Callaghan is studying for an Arts Degree at U.C.C.

19th June ; Bit of a hold-up with the local notes this week. My telephone line was down. (Must start paying a few bills)

Mikey Mahony from New Street has been on the road with Shane MacGowan over the past few months helping him with his World Tour. (See story in Out And About section and pic in Photo Album.

A large contingent of football fans from Abbeyfeale travelled to Killarney on Sunday for the big match between Limerick and Kerry. The Limerick team and mentors passed through the town on Sunday morning and they were greeted by a colourful array of green and white flags and banners in a huge show of support by local GAA followers. Abbeyfeale footballer and publican, John Colbert, broadcast on Limerick Radio with Mal Keavney and his expert analysis of the game was well received. Limerick lost by 1-15 to 0-10, but were still only three points behind with fifteen minutes to go. Two Abbeyfeale men also figured prominently in the junior curtain-raiser in which Tipperary beat Limerick by 1-11 to 1-8. Gerard O`Connor captained the side and Thomas Fitzgeraldscored a personal tally of 1-3. There were also two Abbeyfeale boys on the Limerick Primary Schools team that was narrowly beaten by Kerry. Lorcan O`Neill from Abbeyfeale B.N.S. and Maurice Gleeson from Feale View N.S.4 both gave a good account of themselves.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 9, 12, 14 and 24. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received £25. They were Mary Nuala, c/o The Ploughman`s Bar. Bevan Scannell, The Hill. James Keane, Knocknagoshel. Pat O`Connor, Knockbrack. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Alan Murphy, Collins Park. Denis O`Connell, Purt. James Walsh, Knocknacrohy. Patrick Hickey. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Seamus Collins, c/o Sullivan`s Bar. Pat Aherne, Knocknasna.. The jackpot is now worth £2,300 and the next draw takes place in The Kerry Bar.

11th June SEEKING RELATIVES- We receive quite a lot of e-mails from people who are enquiring about relatives and friends in Abbeyfeale and also from people trying to find their roots. We have now installed a SEEKING RELATIVES section in the Photo Album. We will publish any requests for friends and relatives and we will also print all replies. If you are looking for anyone, please let us know. Also, if you can answer any of the queries in the SEEKING RELATIVES section, please e-mail us. Anyone, who has already sent in a request should now do so again and we will publish it. We hope to update and improve this feature in due course.

Ann-Marie Dennison, Convent Street, has been elected president of the ICA in Limerick. She is a former treasurer, vice-president and contest secretary at federation level, and will hold office for the next three years.

Abbeyfeale Rugby Club created a little bit of history on Saturday night at it`s AGM by electing a Lady President. Former Club Secretary, Elizanna McMahon takes over from outgoing president, Seamus Collins, who has completed his two year term of office. The full election of officers was as follows; Life Patron - Betty O`Mahony. President - Elizanna McMahon. Vice President - Stephen Daly. Hon. Sec. - Garret Harnett. Ass. Sec. - Declan Woulfe. Treasurer - Denis Hobson. Ass. Treas. - Jimmy Prendiville. Fixture Sec. & NMB rep. - Paul Collins. PRO - Raymond Fennelly. Referee Liason Officer - Jimmy Prendiville. Captain 1st XV - Murty Aherne. Vice Capt. - David Prendiville. Captain 2nd XV - Kieran Collins. Club Coach - Michael Foote. Manager 1st XV - Barney McMahon. Youth Officer - David Collins. Selectors - Mike Quirke, Packy O`Connor. General Committee - Patsy Prendiville, Eamon Foley, Liam Herlihy, Donal O`Neill, Gerard Foley, Tosco Collins, Denis Murphy, Billy O`Rourke, Paddy Lane, Mike Quinlan, Tim Murphy. Please note that the first Committee Meeting will be held in The Grove on Monday 18th June at 8pm. It is vital that all committee members attend this first meeting, as many important issues are down for discussion.

For traditional music lovers, Brosna is the place to be this weekend, as the Con Curtin Traditional Weekend takes place in this picturesque little village from the 15th to the 17th June. The event kicks-off on Friday 17th June at 8 pm with a concert in the local hall featuring Sliabh Notes (with accordion player Donal Murphy from Abbeyfeale) and peformances from various other artists and musicians. On Saturday 16th June various Worshops will be held, including accordion, fiddle, concertina, whistle and flute. Registration up to 1.30 pm in Brosna National School. At 8 pm the open Polka Set and Waltzing competitions will be held at under/age, novice and senior level. On Sunday 17th June an open traditional music competition will be held at Brosna N.S. and at 7pm a traditional singing competition will take place in Finnegan`s Bar. Traditional street busking competitions will also be held, and there will be live music sessions in all the bars.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 6, 8, 17 and 20. There were five Match 3 winners and they each received £20. They were Dick O`Mahony, Killarney Road. Kathleen Leahy, Corner House Bar. Billy Collins, Clash. Tommy O`Connor, Mountmahon. Daniele Sheeran, Main Street. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Mary Nuala, c/o The Ploughman`s Bar. Bernie O`Connor, Mountcollins. Billy O`Connor, Bridge Street. Dan McEnery, Collins Park. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Padraig Moore, Kilmeady. Jack Murphy, Knocknagoshel. The jackpot is now worth £2,200 and the next draw is in Matt McCoy`s bar.

Abbeyfeale For Africa will hold their Annual Charity Walk in aid of Fr Tim Galvin`s mission in Sudan on Sunday 24th June, starting from The Square at 3pm. Sponsorship cards are available from Traoine Tobin, Corrina Prendiville or Margaret A Collins.

4th June; Visitors will note some changes to our Photo Album this week. Hopefully, these changes will help improve the accessability to our photographs. Expect further improvements to the Abbeyfeale On Line web site over the coming weeks and months with many more stories, features, photos etc.

The third annual charity football match between Abbeyfeale Guards & Firemen and Abbeyfeale Publicans was played before a large and ethusiastic crowd in The Inch on this bank holiday Monday and ended in a one point win for the Guards & Firemen on a final score of 4-3 to 2-8. The Guards & Firemen led by 4-0 to 0-5 at half time. However, The Publicans staged a magnificent second-half fightback and only poor finishing denied them victory. Proceeds from the game and from the match programme were donated to Milford Hospice. The organizers would like to thank all the sponsors, the spectators, the players and everyone who helped in any way to make the event such a success.

Bank holiday traffic through the town was again particularly heavy at the weekend, with the inevitable delays and tailbacks. The busy tourist season is about to commence and, with Abbeyfeale being on the major route into the lucrative Ring of Kerry and opening the gateway to Killarney, Dingle, Ballybunion etc. , it is imperative that Limerick County Council, Bord Failte and other interested bodies, look again at ways of regulating and facilitating the steady flow of traffic through the area.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won at the weekend. The winning numbers were 1, 2, 5 and 6. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £17. They were; Ellen Leahy, New Street. Michael O`Riordan, c/o Daniel J O`Riordan. William Herlihy snr, Knocknagoshel. Mairead Heffernan, Main Street. Larry Donovan, Cederville. Pauline Murphy, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Joseph Beston, c/o Harnett`s Flats. Eileen Broderick, Cratloe West. Dan Curtin, c/o John M Fitzgerald`s bar. Samanta Reidy, Crecora. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Tom Murphy, The Hill. Colm Quirke, Killarney Road. The jackpot now stands at £2,100 and the next draw takes place in JD Harnett`s bar.

The AGM of Abbeyfeale Rugby Club takes place in The Grove on this Saturday night, 9th June, at 8 pm. All members, players, etc are requested to attend.

The AGM of Abbeyfeale Utd FC takes place at Riverside Park on Thursday 7th June at 8 pm. All members and intending members are requested to attend.

There was double success for local greyhound owner, David Ward, at Tralee Track last week when both Sahara Tex (18.17 ) and Watson Bay (18.08) won two very competitive sprints.

Sean O`Connell, son of Joan and Sean O`Connell, Ballymacjordan, played on the Limerick Primary Schools hurling team at Pairc Ui Chaoimh last week and acquitted himself well.

County senior football champions, Fr Casey`s, began the defense of their title with a one point win over Claughaun in Kilmallock on Friday evening. Man of the Match, Thomas Fitzgerald, contributed 1-4 of his team`s total, and fittingly, it was Fitzgerald who scored the winning point in injury time. Final score; Fr Casey`s 1-6. Claughaun 0-8.

Now that the rugby and soccer seasons are over, (and most of the cricketers are in gaol!) we will publish local news and sports results on the same page for the time being. We hope to re-design the whole web site in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, we are continuing to post new pictures on to our Photo Album and we have now gathered quite an interesting and varied collection. Again, we appeal to anyone with photographs to get in touch with us. Isn`t it far better to let people view them, rather than to have them stuffed away in some drawer? We will let you know about the plans to re-design the web site as soon as we have finalized them ourselves. And keep those e-mails coming! We value your views and opinions.

For aspiring writers and those interested in books in general, Listowel Writers Week is the place to be this weekend. Many Abbeyfeale Folk travel there each year and they will have a particular interest in the proceedings on this occasion, as the Chairman of Writers Week this year is David Browne, a former captain and present committee member of Abbeyfeale Rugby Club.

The third annual charity football match between Abbeyfeale Guardai& Fire Brigade and Abbeyfeale Publicans takes place in The Inch on this bank-holiday Monday, 4th July, at 7 pm. A match programmehas been published and is now available. Proceeds from the match will be donated to Milford Hospice.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 13, 15 and 16. There were 5 Match 3 winners and they each received £20. They were Cathy Scrubner ,Collins Park. Carl Collins, The Cellar Bar. Cathy Sheehy, Riverside. Eileen Casey, Tralee. Mairead Mulcahy , Brosna Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Martin McAuliffe,Templeglantine.Marion Lyons, c/o Cut-N -Curl. John Broderick , Lower Purt. Lily Flaherty ,c/o Jack Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Richie Roche,Ballybehy North. Florrie O`Connell, The Square. The jackpot now stands at £2,000 and the next draw takes place in Leen Hotel.

Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win jackpot of £1,600 was finally won last Sunday night. The lucky winner was Sean O`DonnellCaher. Other winners wereAoife Daly £65. Tess Fitzgerald £55. Neilie Donovan £60. Dan Lane - £65. The next draw takes place in The Railway Bar on Sunday 10th June. The jackpot starts off at£1,000 and the contestants are; John Barry, c/o John Mike`s Pat Kelly, Ballingarry. Noreen Murphy, Ballaugh. Liam Herlihy , Killarney Road. Pat Donovan, Ballingarry.

Limerick hurlers created quite a shock by beating Munster and All Ireland champions, Cork in the first round of the Munster championship on Sunday by 1-16 to 1-15. They play Waterford in the semi-final on Sunday week. Limerick footballers secured a rare win over Meath on Sunday in preparation for their meeting with All Ireland champions, Kerry. Final score; Limerick 3-10. Meath 1-14.

The AGM of Abbeyfeale Rugby Club will take place in The Grove on Saturday 9th June at 8 pm sharp. All players, members and intending members are requested to attend. Dungannon won the AIL rugby league, defeating Cork Con by 46 pts to 12.

In the Junior A football league, Fr Casey `s defeated Mountcollins 1 -10 to 0-11.

22nd May; There is much disappointment in the town following news that the Town Renewal Programme has again been delayed due to lack of funds and escalating costs. The original estimate, made in 1999, to control traffic congestion and parking problems as well as work on pavements, paths, lighting etc. was £1.5 m. This has now risen to £4m with the County Council claiming that sufficient funds are not available. It is hoped that the plans may be implemented on a phased basis. Meanwhile, the traffic chaos continues, with major delays and severe parking problems being experienced.

A dance in aid of Meenkilly School Funds will be held in the GAA club on Saturday 26th May starting at 10 pm. Music will be by Murt Downes and Bibi. Tickets available at the door. Lots of spot prizes and refreshments.

The Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion were held in the parish on Wednesday and Saturday of last week. Large crowds attended both ceremonies, and the fine weather ensured excellent photo opportunities and helped to make the occasion a memorable one for all the young boys and girls involved.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 6, 7 and 24. There were eleven Match 3 winners and they each received £10. They were; Carmel O`Donnell, Radharc na Feile. Mairead Connolly, New Street. Helena & Shauna Kelliher, Collins Park. Tom Doody, c/o Jack Murphy. Eleanor O`Mahony, Collins Park. Paul Ward, Main Street. Ailish Broderick, Purt. Paudie Murphy, Colbert`s Terrace. Mary Doody, Rockchapel. Eileen Broderick, Purt. Brigid Moran, Knockaderry. There were four Lucky Dip winners who each received £20. They were; Ben Brosnan, Knocknagoshel. Seano Collins, Abbeyfeale. John Riordan, Killarney Road. Vita Harnett, Kilconlea Lower. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Catriona McElligott, Duagh. Betty lane, Kilmorna. The jackpot now stands at £1,900 and the next draw takes place in The Ploughman`s Bar.

The death has occurred of Denis O`Brien, Purt. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved sister Margaret and to his cousins, relatives and friends.

The death has also occurred of Thomas (Tom Bawn) O`Keefe, Railway Road and formerly of Main Street. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved brother Jack, sisters Joan, Nora, Vourneen, Eimear, Pat and Frances and to his nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Abbeyfeale rugby team won the Galwey-Foley Cup on Sunday evening in The Grove following a narrow 17-15 win over Castleisland.

Abbeyfeale Utd were deafeated by 3 goals to 2 in the premiership division of the Desmond League on Sunday. Tom Fitz and Joe Kelliher were the Abbeyfeale scorers. Abbeyfeale Utd B defeated Bally Rovers by 2 goals to 1 in division two.

14th May; Margaret Cross from The Hill, Abbeyfeale was a contestant on Mike Murphy`s Winning Streak on R.T.E. last Saturday night. Margaret was accompanied to Dublin by her husband Tommie and by her daughters and friends. She revealed that she did not know that she had been selected to appear on the show until she received a phone call from a relative on the previous Saturday night. Margaret won a new car valued at £12,000 and £5,700 in cash.

Local traditional musicians and music lovers will head over the river to Brosna from the 15th to the 17th June for the Con Curtin Traditional Weekend. It commences on the Friday night 15th June at 8 pm with a concert featuring Sliabh Notes, (of which local accordion player, Donal Murphy, is a member) and other local talented musicians, singers and dancers. Workshops will be held on Saturday and Sunday. David Sheridan from Carlow will run the fiddle workshop. Willie Larkin from Templeglantine will be in charge of the accordion workshop, and Maura Walsh from Lixnaw will look after the concertina workshop. Polka and Waltzing competitions will also be held on the Saturday. These will be in three categories; Senior, Novice and Under 15. Names must be given to Seamus O`Sullivan not later than the 1st June.There will be more workshops and competitions on the Sunday including a busking competition, and there will also be music in the pubs throughout the weekend. For further details contact Alma Leahy at 068-44111.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 3, 6, 14 and 18. There were seven Match 3 winners and they each received £15. They were Sean O`Donnell, Caherhayes. Mike Brosnihan, Strand. Dan Riordan, Killarney Road. Kathleen`s Foodstore, Convent Street. Ted Fitzgerald, Coolaneelig. Peg Browne, St Ita`s Terrace. Con Mulcahy, Tournafulla. There were four Lucky Dip winners and they each received £20. They were Oliver Nach, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Philip Hennessy, Askeaton.Timothy & Siobhan Noonan, Moyvane. Margaret Kelliher, c/o Geraldine Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were John Scanlon, Upper Athea. Rory Finnerty, The Hill. The jackpot now stands at £1,800 and the next draw will be held in DP Lyons bar.

The death has occurred of Elizabeth (Lizzie) Murphy (nee Lane) Kilarney Road and late of Murphy`s Newsagents, Church Street, wife of the late Neilus Murpy. She is survived by her sons, Tim, Denis and Peter, brothers John, Aeney and Thomas and by her nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Two pupils from Abbeyfeale Boys National School have been selected on the West Limerick National Schools hurling panel for the upcoming County Divisional Schools Competition to be held in the Gaelic Grounds. They are Seanie O`Connell, Ballymacjordan and Eoin Joy, The Grove. Both players also played with the West Limerick National Schools football team in the Sarsfield Cup which was also held in the Gaelic Grounds last month.

St Ita`s Athletic Club competed in the County Championships in Plassey recently and returned with a massive haul of 98 medals. These included twenty eight individual gold, eighteen individual silver, and nineteen individual bronze as well as medals in the relay events. Competitions for both boys and girls ranged from U/8 to U/16.

Abbeyfeale Utd were beaten 1-0 by Shanagolden in the premier division of the Desmond League on Sunday. Abbeyfeale Utd B drew 1-1 with Bresa rovers in division two. Joe Brouder was the Abbeyfeale scorer.

7th May ; Crowds flocked to Abbeyfeale over the bank holiday weekend to enjoy the very best of traditional music, song, dance, entertainment and craic in glorious weather conditions as the town hosted it`s seventh Fleadh By The Feale music festival. Highlight of the weekend was the concert by Dervish in the Concert Hall on Saturday night. This event was totally booked out and was considered by many to be one of the finest concerts ever staged at this popular venue. The various worshops and exhibitions were also well attended, and crowds gathered in The Square each evening to enjoy the open-air platform entertainment. Most pubs had live music both inside and outside their establishments, and impromptu sessions and busking competitions were also held on many street corners as the crowds and the musicians sampled the almost carnival-like atmosphere in brilliant sunshine. The whole event was an unqualified success for the local organizing committee and the numerous volunteers who have worked diligently over several months to ensure that everything went off without a hitch.

West Limerick Set-Dancing Club will hold a Set-Ceili in the Convent Hall on Sunday 13th May at 4 pm. Music will be by the Abbey Ceili Band. All sets called and everyone welcome. Abbeyfeale Set- Dancing Classes will conclude with a Ceili at the G.A.A. Club on this Thursday night, 10th May with music by Tim Joe and Ann. All are welcome.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 4, 6, 7 and 23. There were seven Match 3 winners and they each received £15. They were; Tim Doody, c/o Billy Broderick. John Moloney, Failte Bar. Gerard Wrenn, Tournafulla. James Martin Moloney, Knockmaol. Risteard de Bhulbh, New Street. James McEnery, Kilconlea. Jack Mahony jnr, c/o The Bridge Inn. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were J.M. Fitzgerald, Church Street. Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Dave O`Connell, Mountcollins. David O`Connor, c/o Jack Murphy. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Stephenie Sheehy, New Street. Margaret Corridan, Brosna. The jackpot now stands at £1,700 and the next draw takes place the Winners Circle.

The death has occurred, in her 92nd year, of Margaret (Peg) Leahy, (nee Kelly) New Street and formerly of Cratloe West, wife of the late Thomas Leahy M.P.S.I. She is survived by her daughters May and Helen, sons Joseph and John, and by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

6th May; Abbeyfeale have been narrowly defeated by Kanturk; 12 pts to 11; in the semi-final of the Munster Junior Plate. (Match report tomorrow) For action pics see Photo Album (Sport)

30th April; For traditional music lovers, Abbeyfeale is the place to be on this May Bank Holiday weekend, as the town hosts it`s seventh Fleadh By The Feale music festival. The festival kicks off on Thursday night, 3rd May and continues until Monday 7th May. The organizing committee have once again put together an attractive programme of events to cater for all tastes. The main groups performing will be Dervish, Sliabh Notes and Planxty O`Rourke. There will be traditional busking competitions on the streets and also an inter-pub traditional entertainment competition plus the All Ireland Bone Playing championships. Various workshops will be held at the Convent Hall and there will be open-air entertainment in The Square each evening.

Hi Raymond,
Please oblidge your fellow parishioners by including the following information on your very witty and informative website.St Joseph's Young Priests Society meet on the 1st Tuesday of the month to promote Justice ,Peace & Love in the World. The venue is the Sacristy at 8pm and members contribute £6 annually to help young students realise their dream of becoming Priests. Sacred Heart of Divine Mercy Prayer Group meet on Mondays (Bank Holidays included) 8.30 Summertime, 8pm Wintertime.Venue St Ita's Hall. The Charasmatic Renewal Prayer Group meet on Thursdays at 8.30 Summertime 8pm Wintertime.Venue St Ita's Hall New Members welcome to all of the above.

Thank You in advance.God Bless Josephine Lyons

Abbeyfeale Senior Citizens enjoyed their last get-together in the Community Centre last Sunday. These parties have been going on in the Community Centre since 1979 but in future they will be transferred to the new Day Centre. The draw for a trip to Lourdes was won by Mary Healy and Mary Ann Quirke . Music was provided by Donal De Barra and Ned Fitzgerald. Songs from Kathleen Crowley ,Mary Ann Quirke, Denis Connell, Donal De Barra, Phyl Kelly and Fr Leo McDonnell completed a very enjoyable afternoon. Refreshments were provided by the local St Ann`s Society.

The death has occurred of Maria McCarthy (nee Harnett) wife of the late Eddie McCarthy (ex. N.T.) She is survived by her daughters Aine and Miriam, son Eamon, and by her nieces, nephews, grandchildren, relatives and friends. The death has also occurred of Mary Carroll (nee King) wife of the late Paddy, Ballybehy. She is survived by her brother Dan and by her nephew, niece, sister-in-law, relatives and friends.

Abbeyfeale Post Office opened at it`s new location in Church Street last Monday morning.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 13, 19, 20 and 24. There were two Match 3 winners and they received £50 each. They were Jerry Herlihy, Collins Park and Helen Enright, Foynes. There were four Lucky Dip winners and they each received £20. They were Paul Ward, c/o Matt McCoy`s bar. Terenica Broderick, Upper Purt. Jack Murphy, Collins Park. Joe Kelly Collins Park. Two Lucky Dip winners received £10 each. They were Patricia Smith, Hillview Drive and Dan Sheehan, The Devon Inn. The jackpot now stands at £1,600 and the next draw takes place in Jack O`Rourke`s bar.

23rd April; Abbeyfeale Post Office will close it`s doors on Main Street for the last time on this Friday, 27th April, after 48 years of serving the public. The post office moved to Main Street in 1953 and at that time it was run by Padraig O`Conchuir and James Collins. It has continued to be run by the Collins family ever since with James Collins Jnr in charge to the present day. The Post Office will now move to new premises in Church Street adjacent to Mann`s Supermarket with Thomas Mann in charge. It will open for business on next Monday 29th April.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 7, 15, 19 and 20. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £17. They were Seamus Prendiville, Knockbrack. Vincent O`Connor, Knockbrack. Nora Connelly, Tour, Duagh. Eileen Scanlon, Ballaugh. Siobhan Kelliher, Collins Park. Eric Lacey-O`Connor, Cahir. Lucky Dip winners who each received £20 were Pat Fitzgerald, Dromtrasna North. Liz O`Mahony, The Grove. TJ O`Riordan, Main Street. Brendan Roche, Killenagh Road. Lucky Dip winners who each received £10 were Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Jonathan Stack, Collins Park. The jackpot now stands at £1,500.

The death has occurred of Mary O`Connor (nee Moy) The Winners Circle bar. Sympathy is extended to her bereaved husband Tommy, son Packy, daughters Mary and Shannon, mother Margaret and to her brothers, sisters, grandchildren, relatives and large circle of friends.

The death also occurred of Phylis Cotter, Knocknasna. Sympathy is extended to her bereaved husband Joe, and to her daughters, relatives, neighbours, and a large circle of friends.

16th April; Our Photo Album continues to grow and we thank all those who have gone to the trouble of contributing photographs. Richie Prendiville`s photographs of St Ita`s Terrace and Old Abbeyfeale are creating a considerabel amount of interest and support. Personal pictures from people both at home and overseas are also very much appreciated. Again, we appeal to anyone with photographs to either post them directly to the web site or send us on copies and we will do the rest. Also, if there is anyone out there with any interesting stories, reminiscences, jokes, information, lies, etc. you can e-mail them on to us at abbeyfeale1@eircom.net and we will post them on to the site. We now have a pretty large audience from places all over the world and in Ireland, and they all enjoy the bit of local gossip and the few photographs. So keep sending in your pictures and comments. You never know who may be watching!

Abbeyfeale is one of five Limerick towns to be granted Town Renewal status by the European Union. The Town Renewal Scheme provides help to small and medium-sized enterprises and businesses as well as offering tax relief for repairing and restoring various designated buildings and construction schemes. Local Fianna Fail TD, Mr Michael Collins, welcomed the announcement and urged Limerick County Council and all interested parties to come together and ensure that the scheme is a success, as it has great potential to generate both income and employment in the area. The termination date for the Town Renewal Scheme is 21st December, 2003.

Abbeyfeale ICA Guild are hosting a Fundraising Coffee Evening on Tuesday 24th April at the Vocational School at 8 pm. A Cookery Demonstration will be given by Guest Chef, Kevin Reidy. The event is in aid of the Chernobyl Children`s Project (Local Outreach Group) who are bringing a number of children from Belarus to the Abbeyfeale area during the summer. Tickets at £5 each, including refreshments are available from ICA members and from Kathleen`s Quik Pick. Everyone welcome.

Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win draw winners were as follows; James Morrissey - £50. Noreen O`Connor - £55. Peter and Conor Healy - £100. Siobhan Murphy - £55. Dan Murphy - £100.

Monday 9th April; Local publican, Jim (The Doc) Lane celebrated forty years in business at the weekend and marked the event in suitable style with a large gathering of family and friends. When The Doc first opened, the price of the pint was just 10p. They say that he still serves the best (and the cheapest) pint in town. We wish him continues success.

Despite the easing of restrictions relating to the foot and mouth scare, visitors to the the area have shown a marked decrease compared to previous years. Easter has always been a traditionally busy period, with many people arriving home from England and America as well as from the main towns and cities in Ireland. However, hoteliers and guest-house owners report depleted bookings this year, with the adverse publicity generated by the foot and mouth epidemic in England obviously affecting people`s holiday arrangements.

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 15, 16, 18 and 23. There were three Match 3 winners and they each received £34. They were Maurice Sheehan, Templeglantine. John Leahy, Bogmount. Stephen Murphy, Collins Park. There were four Lucky Dip winners and they each received £20. They were Denis McEnery, Knocknagoshel. Sinead O`Sullivan, Knocknasna. Mick O`Grady, Duagh. Keith Kelliher, Collins Park. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Neilus Cronin, c/o Jack Murphy. Eilish Mulcahy, Killarney Road. The jackpot now stands at £1,300 and the next draw takes place in O`Connell`s bar.

The death has occurred of Edward, (Ned) Cusack, Cratloe West. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved brother Con (USA) and to his nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Abbeyfeale Folk are enjoying a very successful run with their excellent production of "Say Cheese" a two-act comedy by Bernard Farrell. They have already given several performances at the GAA Club and look set for an extended run. Watch out for them at other local venues over the coming weeks.

Abbeyfeale Senior Citizens had a most enjoyable get-together at the Community Centre. Mass was celebrated by Fr Leo McDonnell CC. Easter Eggs were won by Joe Murphy, Donal De Barra and Michael O`Donnell. Kathleen Crowley and Donal De Barra led the singing. Music was provided by Ned Fitzgerald and Donal De Barra. The event was organized by the local St Ann`s Society, and the next party is planned for Sunday 29th April.

The following national school pupils obtained scholarships to the Cursa Gaeilge which will be held this summer in Abbeyfeale Vocational School, and is being organized by Maire Bean Ui Choileain, OS agus Aras Ide, Faing. Convent School - Cassie Ni Mhurchu, Amber Ni Riada, Noirin Ni Ghealbhain, Shellie-Ann Elliot. Boys` School - Donal Mac An Bhaird, Lorcan O`Neill, Peadar hEalaithe, Padraig O`Scannaill. Dromtrasna - T O`Mhurcu, Laura Ni Laocha, Eleanor Nic Chaoimh, Siobhan Ni hAisi. Knocknasna - Sean O`Flaithimhin, Catriona Nic Bhruadair, Jordanna Nic Shiochain, Aisling Nic Mhaoldomhnaigh. Meenkilly - Laoise Ni Chonchuir, Sharon Ni Liain. Feale View - Maire Ni Liain, Eoin Mac Einri.

2nd April; Glad to see that Tony Blair has decided to take our advise on board and has posponed the General Election. If there is any other little thing that we can help him with - he has only to ask. (We know big people, too!)

West Limerick Set-Dancing Club wish to announce that the Set-Ceili due to be held in the Convent of Mercy in Abbeyfeale on this Sunday 8th April has been cancelled due to the foot and mouth scare.

The recent church gate collection for the Disabled Drivers Association raised the sum £485.92. The organizers would like to thank everyone for their generous support.

Garda Stephen Brew has been transferred to Abbeyfeale, following several years of distinguished se vice in Listowel. A native of Kilrush in County Clare, Garda Brew is wished every success in his new posting.

St. Ita`s A.C. would like to thank all those who contributed to their recent church gate collection. Juvenile training continues in the Convent Hall each Tuesday and Friday night between 7pm and 8.30pm. New members welcome . The club has also started a Veteran, Senior and Junior section. Training for these goes ahead in the Community Centre each Wednesday night at 7pm

26th March ; We have added some local photographs to our Photo Album and hope to continue adding more pictures over the coming weeks. Our thanks to all those who have contributed photographs, and may we again appeal to anyone out there who has photographs to get in touch with us.

Some of the restrictions imposed by the foot and mouth scare have been eased, and several sporting events went ahead at the weekend. (See Sports section) However people are stiil urged to be vigilant and to obey Department of Agriculture directives. We continue to observe with some dismay our near-neighbour`s attitude to the epidemic. A slight panic at last appears to be setting in, and measures are now being put in place that might more readily have been used three weeks ago. And not telling them their business or anything - but do they REALLY need to hold an election during such a major emergency?

Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 4, 10, 15 and 19. There were 8 Match 3 winners and they each received £13. They were; Betty Collins, Knocknasna.(twice) Marie Sweeney, Killarney Road. Teresa Copse, c/o Jack Murphy. John Farrell, Breffini Court. Nora Kelliher, Templeglantine. Lizzie O`Mahony, The Grove. Phil O`Keefe, The Hill. There were four Lucky Dip winners who each received £20. They were; Mark Collins, Tralee. Janice O`Shea, Shannon. Paddy Sheehan, Knocknasna. Marie O`Hanlon, Collins Park. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Florrie O`Connell, The Square. Joseph Barber, c/o Harnett`s Flats. The jackpot now stands at £1,100 and the next draw takes place in Cryle View bar.

19th March; Local radio presenter, Ray Fennelly Jnr, can now be heard on his own radio show every Sunday morning between 7am and 11am on RLO (Radio Limerick One) Ray plays all the hits from the sixties, seventies and eighties, plus local news updates, obituaries, sports, showbiz gossip, requests, etc. Anyone living outside the country can listen to Ray live by accessing the RLO web site at RLO105.com ; You can also contact Ray by e-mail on the RLO web site with your requests and dedications which he will read out live on air to the people of Abbeyfeale, Limerick and the rest of the world. Tell him where you are living now, and mention Abbeyfeale. He will be delighted to hear from you.

It was the quietest St Patrick`s Day in the locality for many years, due to the cancellation of the St Patrick`s Day Parade and all sporting activities. There were much less visitors to the area, particularly from England, as people continue to obey the restrictions imposed by the foot and mouth scare. Some of these restrictions are set to be eased during the coming week and it is hoped that football and rugby may resume at the weekend. However, restrictions on the movement of all lifestock are still in place and are being strictly observed and enforced.

The recent appeal for Chernobyl Aid was well supported and the organizers, Kathleen Collins and Bridget O`Connor, would like to thank the local school children and their teachers for all the food and money collected.

The Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot of £1,300 was won at The Ramble Inn on Tuesday night. The lucky winner was Danielle Sheehy, New Street and the winning numbers were 4, 14, 16 and 22. There were four Match 3 winners and they each received £25. They were Conor Guiney, Rockchapel. John Riordan, Upper Purt. Helena Quinn, c/o Donal & Ann`s bar. Pat Leahy, Dromtrasna. Four Lucky Dip winners received £20 each. They were Eilish Mulcahy, Knocknagoshel. James Moran, Newcastle West. Martin Crowley, Ardfert. Tom Hickey. Two Lucky Dip winners received £10 each. They were James Dennison, Abbeyfeale. Joe Cotter, upper Purt. The jackpot now starts off at £1,000 again and the next draw takes place in The Bridge Inn.

The Irish Foot Harriers Association wish to thank all the Limerick packs, including Abbeyfeale Harriers, who have suspended hunting at the request of the association due to the foot and mouth scare.

HAPPY ST. PATRICK`S DAY TO ALL OUR VISITORS!

From Abbeyfeale On Line!

12th March; We are looking for photographs! If there is anyone out there with any photographs that they would like to share with our members, we would like to hear from you. If you are unable to post your photographs on to our web site, you can mail them to me. I will post them to the site, and return the originals. We are particularly interested in pics with a local or historical flavour (colour or black and white) However, if you live out foreign, we would also like to see photos of where you are. A reminder also that St Ita`s Terrace celebrates it`s fiftieth anniversary this year. We would like to hear from people who came originally from the terrace and are now scattered to the four corners of the globe. We know you are out there - and we WILL find you. There is no escape. For details of where to send photos (or any other queries) e-mail me at; dromtrasna@hotmail.com

Restrictions to combat the spread of foot and mouth disease to this country remain in place. Locally, all football, soccer and rugby matches have been posponed or cancelled. Many social gatherings and events have been called off, with the biggest casualty being the St Patrick`s Day Parade which, this year, promised to be bigger and better than ever. (We had hoped to have extensive coverage of the event with numerous photos etc.) Disinfectant mats have been placed at the entrance to all shops, schools, public buildings and places of business. People everywhere are obeying government directives and taking extreme precautions to avoid the contamination and spread of this most contagious of diseases. Meanwhile, they regard with some bewilderment and alarm the casual attitude being adapted by the British Goverment and general public to the crisis which sees new cases being reported now on a daily basis. (Another suspected case in Northern Ireland this evening) Our near-neighbours across the sea have accused us of panicking needlessly under pressure. Perhaps NOW might be a good time for them to begin to panic also. To quote the title of an old Irish song; "Thank God We`re Surrounded By Water!"

The organizers of Fleadh By The Feale, which is due to go ahead during the May Bank Holiday weekend in seven weeks time, will be keeping their fingers crossed that the foot and mouth alert will be over by then. Among the many suggestions made to the hard-working committee was the idea that business people in the town might organize a combined venture of sales and special offers and promotions during the fleadh. It is proposed to hold a Set Ceili at The GAA Club on Sunday 6th May at 3 pm with music by Sliabh Notes. The highlight of the weekend will undoubtedly be the Dervish Concert at the Convent Hall. Tickets for this event go on sale next week and can be purchased from Anne Marie Dennison or Maureen Murphy.

Fishing has of course also been restricted but the Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot draw continues. The winning numbers last week were 1, 11, 13 and 17. The jackpot was not won. Match 3 winners who received £34 each were Con McAuliffe, c/o Donal & Ann`s bar. Tina Meehan, Kilmorna. Mark Dillon, Kilconlea Upper. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were Dan Broderick, Dromtrasna Collins. Donie Reidy, Colbert Road. Shane Flynn, Killarney Road. Amanda Kennedy, Castleisland. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Seamus Collins, c/o O`Sullivan`s bar. Jer Dillon, c/o DP Lyon`s bar. The jackpot now stands at £1,300 and the next draw takes place in The Ramble Inn.

The death has occurred of William (Bill) Colbert, Fealesbridge and formerly of Killarney Road. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved wife Joan, sons Tony, Emmet and Billy, brothere John, Pa and Jimmy, sisters Maureen and Phil and to his nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends. R.I.P.

Local musician, Donal Murphy from Main Street, played with the Riverdance Group at Dublin Castle recently before a select gathering of corporate dignitaries. Donal, who is a member of well-known traditional group, Sliabh Notes, played in Michael Flatley`s grand finale, Feet of Flames, at Hyde Park in London last year before an audience of 35,000 people. Sliabh Notes will play in Abbeyfeale during the Fleadh By The Feale festival in May.

Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win draw was held in The Ramble Inn on Sunday night and the winners were; PJ Lyons, New Street-£50. Leo Geoghegan, Athea-£60. Mike Mackessy, c/o Danny Mac-£65. Caroline Roche, Knocknagoshel-£75. Jeremiah Horgan, Shanagolden-£55. Due to the foot and mouth scare, the all-weather greyhound gallops at Glenashrone remain closed.

As mentioned, all fooball, soccer and rugby activities have been posponed due to the foot and mouth alert. However, the good news is that Ireland is about to get it`s own national sports stadium in Dublin. Talks with the Football Association of Ireland concluded at the weekend and they have agreed to become tenants of the new stadium together with the Irish Rugby Football Union. The new stadium, which should be in operation by 2005, will be state of the art and will accomodate 80,000 spectators.

5th March; Most sporting and cultural activities in the area have been curtailed due to the foot and mouth scare. All rugby, GAA and soccer matches have been posponed. The St Patrick`s Day Parade has been cancelled. Public parks remain locked until further notice. Farms, shops and businesses are displaying warning notices and laying down disinfectant. People are showing a willingness to obey government directives and take precautions in an effort to avoid the spread of the disease. (See Photo Album)

A Thanksgiving Mass will be held before Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday 13th March for Jer and Marion Roche and family at 7.30 pm. All neighbours and card players are very welcome. And Jer and Marion and family would like to thank everyone who helped and supported them since Jer`s illness. A special word of thanks to Fr Casey`s GAA Club, Abbeyfeale Coursing Club, Meenkilly School and card players, Cryle View bar, Julia Twomey`s bar, TJ Riordan`s bar and Abbeyfeale Anglers` Club, and also for the many gifts that were received privately. They would also like to thank their kind neighbours, friends and relatives for their prayers, letters, Mass Bouquets and phone calls, and all those people who visited Jer in Hospital. They will be forever grateful for all that has been done for them and, as it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, they hope that this will be accepted as a token of their appreciation.

At a meeting of the St Patrick`s Day Parade Committee, it was regretfully decided to cancel the parade this year because of the foot and mouth scare. We apologise for any inconvenience that this might cause but, under the circumstances, we felt that there was no alternative in the interest of our economy.

Local Councillors, Michael O`Kelly and Sean Broderick, have welcomed the laying of concrete footpaths throughout St Mary`s Cemetry, Abbeyfeale by Limerick County Council. The bad condition of the paths in recent years was a source of concern to them as local county councillors. When council money was placed at their disposal for allocation to a local project, they were delighted to be in a position to have this work carried out, particularly in view of the many public representations made to them.

Abbeyfeale Rugby Team were due to play Bruff on Sunday in the posponed Munster Junior Cup match. However, due to the foot and mouth scare, the game has again been posponed and no new date has been fixed.

26th Feb; Local artist, Mairead O`Neill-Laher, formerly from New Street, Abbeyfeale, completes a very successful painting exhibition entitled "Soundings" at Dublin`s Origin Gallery, Harcourt Street on this Sunday 4th March. The exhibition is a collection of landscape paintings which centre on the legendary location on the cliffs overlooking Ballybunion in County Kerry called the Nine Daughters Hole. Mairead, a former teacher, is married to a Medical Consultant from South Africa, and raised a family before eventually enrolling herself at Dun Laoighre School of Art and Design and subsequently at NCAD. She is now a full-time artist.

Abbeyfeale`s first fully-fledged Cyber Cafe opened recently in the old Bank Building (Provincial House) on Main Street. Run by Jay Harrison, the cafe offers internet access as well as computer maintainance and training, web design and a whole range of computer and internet services. It is open from 11am to 7pm from Tuesday to Friday. 10am to 8pm on Saturday. And 12 noon to 7pm on Sunday.It is also planned to hold a special Saturday Kids Club. A Business Open Evening will be held on the premises on this Friday night, 2nd March, between 8 and 10 pm. All are welcome. For further details contact Feale.com Cafe at 068-51860. e-mail; Feale.com@oceanfree.net .

All preparatory arrangements have been made for this year`s St Patrick`s Day Parade. The parade will assemble in the Industrial Estate at 2.30 pm. It is hoped that all industrial, commercial, sporting and cultural interests etc. will take part. A church gate collection to fund the expenses will be taken up on the weekend of the10th/11th March.

West Limerick Set Dancing Club are holding a Workshop Weekend in the Convent Hall from Friday 2nd March to Sunday 4th March. The arrangements are as follows; Fri 2nd; Ceili at the Railway Bar with Four Courts Ceili Band. Sat. 3rd; Workshop 10.30am - 1pm. 2pm - 5.30pm. Ceili at 9.30 pm with the Abbey Ceili Band. Sun 4th; Workshop 11am - 1pm. Ceili 2.30pm - 5.30pm with Taylors Cross Ceili Band. For further details call; Josephine 068-42389. Ann 068-31867. Teresa 068-34240.

19th Feb; Five Abbeyfeale pupils were members of the Teampall An Gleantain C.C.E. group that won the All Ireland Scor Traditional Group competition in Athlone recently. The members of the winning group were Sarah McGroary, Eibhlin and Ciara Gleeson and Ann Maria Ward, pupils of St Joseph`s Secondary School, Abbeyfeale and Eibhlin Healy, a pupil at Scoil Mhathair De, Mainistir na Feile.

CARDS; Meenkilly Card game continued over the last two weeks and was well supported. Results from 6th Feb.; Winners with 14 games were Jackie Harnett, Anton Lenihan and Liz Stack. Runners up with 12 games were Dan Joe Riordan, Billy Broderick and Frank Collins. Table prizes went to Dan Cullinane, Peg Browne and Theresa O`Donnell. Ticket winners were Joan O`Grady, Nora Lyons, Liz Stack and Dan Cullinane. The door prize was won by Noel Murphy. Results from 13th Feb.; Winners with 15 games were Jimmy Sweeney, Mrs Crowley and Bridie Collins. Runners up with 12 games were Danny O`Connell, Lena O`Connor and Kathleen Lenihan. Ticket winners were Theresa O`Donnell, Billy Broderick, Nell Gleeson and Liam O`Connor. Table prizes went to Mossie Collins, Nora Lyons and Anita Danaher. The door prize was won by Dan Joe Riordan.

Abbeyfeale Coursing Club`s Spin & Win results from last week were as follows; Donal Collins-£60. Karen Moloney-£60. Denis Flanagan-£50. Ned O`Keefe-£55. Gerard O`Connor-£50. The jackpot now stands at £1,300 and the next draw takes place in Jack O`Rourke`s bar on this Sunday night at 10.30 pm, and the contestants are; Eileen King, Templeglantine. Tom Sheehan, Mountcollins. Neilie Nolan, Brosna. Mary Dillon, Listowel. Darragh Joy, Kilcara.

12th Feb; The gremlins got in to our web site last week and caused problems for a couple of days. We seem to have resolved the difficulties and everyone should now be receiving us loud and clear again. A reminder that St Ita`s Terrace is celebrating it`s 50th anniversary this year and we hope to publish various items to mark the occasion. If there is anyone out there with any old photographs, stories, memorabilia, etc please contact us. Also, people who have left the terrace and moved away, contact us and let us know who you are, and where you are.

At the AGM of the Fleadh By The Feale Committee the following officers were elected; Chairperson-Anna Maria Dennison. Vice Chairman-Denis Daly. Secretary- Maureen Murphy. Ass. Sec.-Nora Quille. Minutes Secretary-Sr Delia Curtin. Treasurer-Kieran Curtin. PRO-Dan J Murphy. Catering-Celine McNally. New Ideas Co-Ordinator-Donal Murphy. Committee-John O`Sullivan, Pat Quille. This year`s Traditional Weekend runs from Thursday 4th May to Monday 7th May. (May Bank Holiday Weekend)

The Presentation Dance for Fr Tim Curtin will be held in Fr Casey`s GAA Club on Saturday 24th February from 9.30 onwards. It promises to be a most enjoyable evening and everyone is welcome.

The Kingdom Hunt Club would like to thank all those who made the recent hunt in Abbeyfeale such a resounding success. A special word of gratitude must go to the landowners without whose sportsmanship and generosity there would not be a hunt. The Hunt traversed a very testing course across Abbeyfeale Hill and over sixty riders took part ,with numerous spectators following the horses. A very enjoyable get-together was held in the Winners Circle later that evening.

St Ita`s Athletic Club will hold their AGM on this Thursday 15th February at 9 pm in Leen`s Hotel. All are welcome.

5th Feb; Abbeyfeale Health Centre at Colbert`s Terrace is presently closed for renovation. While work is in progress, Nurse Halpin will be available in Athea and Nurse O`Dee in Newcastle West. The Social Welfare Officer, Richard Chalke, will still operate from the Health Centre at his usual times for the moment.

There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night. The winners with 14 games were Jimmy Sweeney, Mrs Crowley and Noel Murphy. Runners-up with 13 games were Liam O`Connor, Noreen Murphy and Jamsie McEnery. Ticket winners were Peg McCarthy, Marion Roche, Liam O`Connor and Betty McCarthy. Table prizes went to Mikey Lane, Pat Doran and Dan Brosnan. The door prize was won by Maurice Collins. The organizers would like to thank the Teachers and Pupils of Meenkilly NS who held a Jumble Sale and raised £350 for the Chernobyl Children`s Fund.

West Limerick Set Dancing Club will hold a Set-Ceili in the Convent Hall on Sunday 11th of February at 4pm. Music will be by Esker Riada. All sets called and everyone welcome.

The death has occurred of Jack Nelligan, Kilconlea. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved sons Timmy, Tom and Sean, daughter Mary, and to his sisters, relatives, neighbours and friends.

The next Guild meeting of Mainistir na Feile ICA will be held at the Ceard Scoil on Tuesday 13th February at 8 pm. A guest speaker is being arranged. The Guild Annual Fund-raising takes place on Tuesday 27th March. Guest Demonstrator will be Chef Kevin Reidy and proceeds will go to the local Chernobyl Outreach Group.

The Convent of Mercy Junior Gael Debating Team is through to round 3 of this year`s competition and will now meet Scoil Aine from Tipperary Town. Team members are Triona O`Callaghan, Marguerite O`Callaghan, Elena Harnett and Michelle Walsh, and their teacher is Mrs Eileen Lawlor.

St Ita`s AC will hold their AGM in Leen`s Hotel on Thursday 15th February at 9pm sharp. All parents of athletes in the club are requested to attend, and also parents of those intending to join the club. Training continues each Tuesday and Friday nights at the Convent Hall at 7pm.

St Mary`s Boys NS took first prize in the Credit Union Quiz last Monday night. Team; Ned Leonard, Sean Tobin, TJ Leahy and Lorcan O`Neill.

The Rehab Foundation, which trains people with disabilities, would like to thank the people of Abbeyfeale for their generous response to their collection last weekend which raised £659.43.

29th Jan; Abbeyfeale Anglers lotto jackpot was not won last week. The winning numbers were 1, 4, 6 and 10. There were six Match 3 winners and they each received £17. They were; Sean Culhane, Tralee. James Kennedy, Convent Street. Danny Dillon, Kilconlea. Con Healy, Ballaugh. Ronan Lacey, Mountcollins. Bessy Meehan, c/o Billy Broderick. Lucky Dip winners who received £20 each were; Pat Loughnane, Bank Of Ireland. Michael Aherne, Athea. Jackie Grady, c/o Jack Murphy. Joseph McCarthy, Caherlane. Lucky Dip winners who received £10 each were Eileen Lynch, Meenkilly. Martin Murphy, c/o Ann`s Diner. The jackpot now stands at £1,400 and the next draw takes place in Jack Ryan`s bar.

The death has occurred of Sean Flynn (Publican) Brosna and formerly of Abbeyfeale Hill. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved sons Seamus and Eoin, daughter Mary, brothers Willie and Con, sisters Betty and Sr. Magdalene, and to his nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Abbeyfeale ICA are having a Day Retreat to Ardfert on this Saturday 3rd February. Non-members are welcome. For further details contact Rita Horgan at 068-31405.

Abbeyfeale Senior Citizens will hold a party in the Community Centre on Sunday 4th February. The event is being organized by the local St Ann`s Society and the festivities will commence at 3 pm.

Recent Munster Scor winners at the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney were Sarah McGroary, Eibhlin Gleeson, Ciara Gleeson and Ann Maria Ward, pupils of St Joseph`s Post Primary School, Abbeyfeale, and Eibhlin Healy, Scoil Mhathar De, Abbeyfeale. The girls represented Templeglantine GAA and they will now go forward to the All Ireland Scor 2001 finals in Athlone on the 10th of February.

There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game last Tuesday night. Winners with 14 games were; Nora Lyons, Mossie Collins and Anita Danaher. Two teams with 13 games each divided second prize. They were; Pat Scannell, Jackie Harnett and Anton Lenihan, and Liam Lane, Peg McCarthy and Betty McCarthy. Ticket winners were Pat Doran, Michael O`Grady, Jim Lenihan and Sheila O`Connor. Table Prizes went to Noel Murphy, Mrs Crowley and Jimmy Sweeney. The Door Prize was won by Der McCarthy.

The Kingdom Hunt will assemble and depart from The Square at 1 pm on next Sunday 4th of February. They will gather again at The Winners Circle after the Meet.

22nd Jan. Nicholas Leonard Jnr., Abbeyfeale Vocational School, has been selected as a potential candidate for the Irish Mathematics Olympiad Team, based on his "excellent performance in the Junior Certificate Mathematics." His mathematic`s teacher is Mr B Wrenne. Nicholas now goes in to training at the University of Limerick and will partake in the Irish Mathematics Olympiad in early May. A team will then be selected to travel to Washington DC in July to represent Ireland in the 42nd International Mathematics Olympiad.

There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night, with expert card playing and close and exciting finishes, being very much in evidence. Winners with 14 games were Liam O`Connor, Noreen Murphy and Jamsie McEnery. Two teams with 13 games each divided second prize. They were; Lizzie Horgan, Seamus Lane and Jim Lenihan and Jeffrey Fitzgerald, Louis McEnery and Maureen Fitzgerald. Ticket winners were Eileen Keating, Maurice Collins, Jeremiah Roche and Jonathen O`Donnell. Table prizes went to Mikey Lane, Pat Doran and Dan Brosnihan. The door prize was won by Dan Joe Riordan. The game continues each Tuesday night with proceeds going to school funds. All are welcome.

ABBEYFEALE FIREFIGHTERS IN DARING RESCUE!

15th Jan. Last Friday night, two members of Abbeyfeale Fire Brigade, Edmund O`Donoghue, Station Officer, and Mike Doody, fireman, were involved in a daring rescue attempt. They were attending a meeting at Foynes Fire Station when a call came in for a house fire at Old Abbey, Shanagolden. They went to the incident with Foynes Fire Brigade. On arriving at the scene, the two, wearing breathing apparatus, and at great personel risk to themselves, entered the house and commenced a search. They found the occupant in one of the rooms, and removed the casualty quickly from the scene. First aid and resuscitation equipment was used to revive the man, who was then removed to hospital.

There was another good attendance at Meenkilly Card Game on Tuesday night. Three tables with 13 games each, divided first and second prize. They were; Bett Collins, Noel Murphy and Mossie Collins; Jerry Riordan, Marion Roche and Nell Gleeson; Maureen Fitzgerald, Lou McEnery and Jeffrey Fitzgerald. Table prizes went to Mikey Lane, Pat Doran and Dan Brosnahan. Raffle winners were Nora O`Mahony, Liam Lane, Sean O`Connor and Anita Danaher. The door prize was won by Joan O`Connor.

Pauline Ryan would like to thank all those who supported her so generously in her recent Christmas Fast for Concern. A sum of £210 was collected for this very worthy charity.

It is hoped to shortly announce details of the date and venue for the planned presentation to Fr Tim Curtin in recognition of all the good work that he has done for the people of the parish. Anyone who has not yet made a contribution may contact the joint-treasurers of the specially-formed fund raising committee. They are Norma O`Connor and Ted Mulcahy.

8th Jan; The recent spell of bad weather caused some disruption in the area, with many minor roads covered in snow and ice. The County Council did a good job in gritting main roads and footpaths. Several sporting fixtures had to be cancelled or posponed. Visitors, home for Christmas, experienced some travel difficulties with delayed flights and curtailed bus services.

St Ita`s Wren Boys would like to thank all those who contributed so generously to their collection on St Stephen`s Day for Fr. John Moloney of St Ita`s Terrace, and his Mission in East Cameroon. The amount lodged in the Bank of Ireland was £2,200. The local Parish Clerk would also like to thank those who contibuted to his collection last Sunday.

Meenkilly Card Game resumed last Tuesday night following the Christmas break. Winners with 12 games were Mossie Collins, Lizzie Horgan and Neil Collins. Three teams with 11 games each divided second prize. They were Thersesa O`Donnell, Dan Cullinane and Liz Stack; Murt Keating, Den Lane and Mary McCarthy; Gobnait Scannell, Maurice Collins and Sean O`Connor. Ticket winners were Theresa O`Connor, Lizzie Horgan (twice) Jerry Riordan, Emma Stack and Eileen Harnett. Table prizes were won by Pat Scannell, Anton Lenihan and Jackie Harnett. The door prize was won by Den Lane. The organizing committee would like to thank all card players for their support over the past year and wish them all a Happy New Year for 2001.

Sympathy is extended to the family, relations and friends of Patrick O`Connor, Caherhayes, who passed away recently.

2nd Jan. 2001; Abbeyfeale Coursing Meeting cancelled due to virus! (See sport section)

A special Presentation Dance will be held early in the new year as a show of appreciation to Father Tim Curtin for all the good work that he has done for the people of the parish. At a packed meeting in St Ita`s Hall an organizing committee was formed with Ted Mulcahy elected Treasurer and Noel Leahy as Secretary. It is hoped that the presentation will be funded by a Church Gate Collection as well as additional collection points in the banks and the Credit Union. Full details will be published as soon as final arrangements have been made.

St Ann`s Senior Citizens Party took place in The Devon Inn before Christmas. Following a delicious four-course meal, a most enjoyable dance was held with music provided by Ned and Paudie Fitzgerald, Jerry and William O`Sullivan, Jody Collins and Louis and Michelle Mulcahy. Songs were sung by Celine McNally, Denis O`Connell and Jackie Harnett. The St Anne`s Committee would like to thank everyone who contributed to make the occasion such an outstanding success.

St Ita`s A.C. also held it`s Christmas Party in the G.A.A.Club. A crowd in access of two hundred attended and a most enjoyable time was had by all. Music was provided by James Kennedy.

The next sale of calves, weanlings etc. at Abbeyfeale Mart will be on Saturday 13th January starting at 11 am.

return to NEWS main page