Local Notes: Ballyglass FC to launch 50th-anniversary book
Ballyglass FC Committee preparing for their historic book launch and gala weekend, back row, from left: Anthony Killeen, Brian Staunton, Kathleen Conroy, Noel Heneghan, Deirdre Ryan, John McNeely and Emma Staunton. Front row: Darren Reilly, John Boyle, Padraig Heverin, Fergal Burke, Trisha Gill and Sean Gilligan. Picture: Tom Quinn
Ballyglass Football Club's 50th-anniversary book will be launched tomorrow night, December 31st, commencing at 8pm int the local centre.
It contains more than 300 pages packed with unforgettable moments, stories, photos, and the rich history of Ballyglass Football Club. The book celebrates half a century of passion, pride, and community. This is a must-have publication for players, supporters, and friends of the club.
Copies of the superb publication are sure to sell out fast.
In conjunction with the Ballyglass FC 50th-anniversary book launch on New Year's Eve, there will be a Kids Disco, from 6 to 7pm. The music will be supplied by Paddy ad Stephen Burke, while the musical entertainment after 10pm (once the book launch is concluded) will be by Concorde.
On Thursday, January 1st, at 4pm, there is live Premier League followed by Karoke by TC.
Ballyglass is the place to celebrate the advent of the New Year 2026.
As Ballyglass Active Age group draws down the curtain on 2025, they look back on a busy year with lots of activities and get-togethers enjoyed by all.
Sincere thanks are extended to Maureen, Mary and Aggie for their hard work and dedication in the organising of the various outings, etc, and to all who helped in any way throughout the year.
The group are looking forward to the New Year and to planning many more shared occasions. New members are welcome to come along and participate in some of the activities, such as exercise classes and yoga classes, or to join the group for a cuppa and the chat every Tuesday morning. The group wishes everyone good health and happiness for 2026.
A large audience enjoyed an outstanding night at Ballintubber Abbey pre-Christmas with Simon Casey and his incredible band.
From the first note to the final applause, the Abbey was filled with warmth, emotion, and true Christmas spirit. It as one of those evenings that will be remembered by all present for a long time.
Thanks has been extended to Simon, the band, and everyone who turned out for such a special night. It was a beautiful evening of music, light, and Christmas spirit in a place that holds it so well.
The brand-new 2026 Ballintubber Abbey calendar is now available.
It features stunning images of the Abbey, the grounds and the cloister and is a perfect keepsake or gift.
Every calendar sold goes directly to the Preservation and Restoration Fund, helping restore and protect the sacred Abbey that has stood strong for over 800 years. Buy yours in-store at the Abbey's gift shop or order online and get it posted out.
The dates for First Confession across the Parish in 2026 are as follows - March 3rd, Carnacon; March 4th, Ballintubber and March 5th in Killawalla.
The 2026 First Holy Communion ceremonies will be held in the local churches on the following dates; Carnacon on May 2nd, Killawalla on May 9th and Ballintubber on May 16th.
Ballintubber GAA Lotto jackpot stood at €6,000 on Sunday night, December 21st, when the numbers drawn were 9, 18, 35 and 36.
There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Cassie Hallinan, Celina McCormack, Stella Mulchrone, Angela Corcoran, Ollie Dillon and Padraic O’Connor (Senior).
The jackpot stood at €6,100 on last Sunday night, December 28th. You can play online at the Clubspot app.
Following on from his recent abseil in Croke Park, Padraic O'Connor Senior, Ballintubber, has expressed a huge thank you to all who supported him in the 'Brave the Drop' event, which raised much needed funds for Mayo Cancer Care Support.
The total raised to date is hugely impressive and Mayo Cancer Care are overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown. Thanks all and best wishes for the New Year from Padraic.
When visiting Ballintubber Abbey, don’t miss the guided tour. Expert guides will take you through over 800 years of history - from St Patrick’s footsteps to the legacy of the Pirate Queen.
Discover the stories, architecture and spirituality that make the Abbey one of Ireland’s hidden gems. Don’t forget to enjoy the peaceful outdoor grounds, see the Visitor Centre and browse at the gift shop.
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PARTRY/TOURMAKEADY/KILLAWALLA
The death took place on December 17th last of Elizabeth (Lily) Keane(née Walsh) Cloonee, Partry, and formerly of Kilawullaune, Killawalla.
Lily was in her 99th year and she passed away in the care of Hollymount Nursing Home, surrounded by her family.
Predeceased by her loving husband Peter, grandson Adrian, brothers Sean and Paddy and sisters Mary and Bea, she is deeply regretted by her family: Paddy (Ballinasloe), Mary (London), Anne (Ballinrobe), Bernie (Partry), Peadar (Cloonee) and Teresa (Dublin), daughter-in-law Breege, sons-in-law Harry and John, 12 grandchildren, Tracey, John, Ronan, Niall, Claire, Brendan, Liz, Emma, Katie, Peter, Tiernan and Ailbhe; 12 great-grandchildren, Freddie, Kitty, Nell, Abbyrose, Keelan, Sienna, Cody, Lily, Molly, Owen, Melissa and Beth, her brother Dr Mike (Illinois), sisters Nancy Gibbons (Missouri), Teresa Flynn (New York), nephews, nieces, cousins and wide circle of friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Her remains reposed at Partry Community Centre on Friday evening, December 19th, with private removal to her daughter Mary’s home. The funeral cortege arrived to St Mary’s Church, Partry on Saturday morning for Requiem Mass at 12 noon with burial afterwards at Ballyovey Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
An indoor market in the Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Gaeltacht will commence on February 7th and will continue on the first Saturday of every month thereafter, from 11am to 3pm, in Halla Pobail Thuar Mhic Éadaigh.
The market will feature a diverse mix of handcrafted, homemade, home-grown and locally produced wares. The market reflects the creativity, skills, and traditions of the area, with everything from artisan foods, natural skincare, artworks and crafts, to unique fresh designs and locally made gifts.
For further details, make contact by email at makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
The 38th edition of Waterfall magazine is in local retail outlets and selling fast.
This is really a very high standard production, chuck full of articles of interest and splendid photography, and it makes the ideal seasonal gift for Tourmakeady folk in Ireland and overseas.
The organising committee deserve the highest plaudits for their dedication in producing this splendid magazine annually. It retails at a modest €10 and is great value.
The posts have been put in place by Skyline for the lighting on the walkway from the Halla to the church. Sincere thanks has been extended to the Rural Social Scheme participants; their supervisor John Gibbons; Kevin O’Hara and Seán O Neachtain from Údarás na Gaeltachta and Pat McHale, Engineer from Mayo Co Council, for all their work and co-operation with the project.
Tourmakeady community are developing a biodiversity plan to document all plants, animals and wildlife habitats that are in the area.
It is looking to make improvements and encourage actions to make Tourmakeady a more nature friendly community. As part of the process, it is vital to get an idea of what is important to people when they think about the natural environment.
See the relevant link on Tourmakeady Facebook page.
Tuar Mhic Eadaigh GAA Club's medal presentation dinner dance will take place in Máire Luke’s Bar and Restaurant on Friday, January 2nd, at 7pm. Tickets are €25 and music is by Gary O'Malley.
A sewing class will be starting in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on Thursday, January 22nd, if there is enough interest. The course will run for six weeks.
If interested, call 087-7657191.
Are you a business owner in Joyce Country or Tourmakeady? Register for a national recognition scheme for use of the Irish language in business.
You can register at www.glornangael.ie.
If you need support in terms of the Irish language in your business, get in touch with Róisín via text at 087-3970227 or email opt.cdst@gmail.com.
There was no winner of the jackpot when Tourmakeady GAA Club held its weekly lotto draw on Saturday, December 20th.
The numbers drawn were 2, 3, 4 and 10, and the jackpot has now reached €20,000 for the latest draw.
The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated. You can play online at www.smartlotto.ie.
Tomorrow (New Year’s Eve) events in Tourmakeady feature a novelty football feast.
12 to 2pm: Blitz – Fé10 / Fé12 Buachaillí agus Cailíní.
2.30pm: Cluiche Sinsear na bhFear – Óga vs Aosta.
Beidh an tráthnóna go hiontach.
Old school photos are required by Coláiste Muire as they get ready for the School Reunion in the Castlecourt Hotel in Westport on February 1st.
Share your photos by email or drop/post them to the school, then join the happy throng in the Castlecourt on February 1st for a night of memories, laughs, and catching up with old friends.
Remember everyone over-18 is welcome to attend this celebration of the past and future of Coláiste Muire.
Partry Bingo sessions take place in the comfortable confines of Partry Centre on Monday nights each week. There are lots of generous prizes and a lovely atmosphere to savour by patrons.
All are welcome.
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BREAFFY/ BALLYHEANE/ BELCARRA
The Living Well Programme is a free HSE initiative which helps people living with a long-term health condition to manage their condition and improve their overall well-being.
Anyone with any chronic illness such as diabetes, arthritis, COPD, cardiac illness, anxiety, etc., can benefit from these workshops.
The next programme commences on Wednesday, January 21st, at 10.30am in Castlebar. For further information, please contact Liam Gildea on 086-0142675.
In the Belcarra Community Council Lotto draw, the numbers drawn on December 21st were 7, 11, 15 and 16. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot.
The weekend jackpot stood at €4,500 on Sunday last, on December 28th.
Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestor's and Flukies and also online at Clubforce.
Breaffy GAA Lotto jackpot stood at a highly attractive €18,500 on December 23rd. The club are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of the community.
The next game in Belcarra Cards will be on Monday, January 5th. The organisers wish all their patrons a peaceful and happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Belcarra Foróige Club sang some beautiful Christmas Carols on Saturday, December 20th, outside Cunningham Costcutters.
It was a most enjoyable sing along and celebration, full of the warmth of the season. The Foróige members sang their hearts out! Well done to the club members and leaders.
The St Vincent de Paul Society has extended thanks to all who contributed so generously to their annual collection. Contributions are welcome at any time.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Eileen Durkan, Carramore on the recent passing of her brother, Richard Horan, Balla Road Claremorris.
May he rest in peace.
Ballyheane's Christmas tree and village lights are once again a magnificent seasonal vista. Congratulations to Ballyheane Community Council and all the sponsors. The lights are a magnificent addition to the village.
Irish dancing classes in Ballyheane Community Centre will be returning on Tuesday, January 6th, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, catering for ages four plus.
Contact Molly Hughes at 087-6562094 for further details. The classes are ideal for competitions, grade exams, displays, shows, fitness and fun.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable Bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm.
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BALLA/MANULLA
The death has taken place of Aileen King (nee Burns), Derryvohey, Balla.
Aileen passed away peacefully at her home, held by her dear friend Cathy Walsh.
A native of Shercock, Co Cavan, Aileen was predeceased by her father Michael Burns and her brother Eamon Burns. She is deeply regretted by her mother Elizabeth Burns, sisters Pauline Grimes, Siobhan Stevenson, brothers-in-law Dennis and Stevie, brothers Michael, Peter and Ciaran, sisters-in-law Kylie and Nancy, husband Martin King, daughters Natasha (her fiance James), Helen and Rebecca (and her partner Shane), grandchildren, Bobby, Marco Leona and Fiadh to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
Aileen’s remains reposed at her home on Wednesday, December 17th, and her Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, December 18th in the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh, followed by burial in Kilkinure Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
Balla GAA Lotto draw was held on the Thursday, December 18th, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €7,300.
The numbers drawn were 24, 28, 33 and 36 and there was no jackpot winner.
The €30 consolation prize winners were Noel Feeney (online) Colm Geraghty (online) and James Armstrong (annual).
The latest draw was held on Friday, December 26th, in Balla Community Centre following the Fun Run when the jackpot stood at €7,400.
Balla main pitch is closed until further notice. Trial holes are being dug for the clubhouse extension, which is welcome news for club members and supporters.
Why not learn to relax in Balla Sensory Room? The Sensory Room is open every day at Balla Community Centre. It is available daytime, evenings, and weekends for people to experience soothing visual, auditory, and tactile relaxation suitable for all ages.
Enjoy a safe, inclusive space to unwind and recharge. Take time out for yourself and at a time that suits you best. Phone Balla Community Centre at 087-1850860 or 094-9365846 or email info@balla.ie.
Manulla FC Club Lotto jackpot stood at €4,000 for the draw last Sunday night, December 28th.
The club is deeply grateful for the support of patrons.
Minister Alan Dillon has announced that Manulla FC has been awarded €25,000 under the second phase of the Healthy Ireland Tracks Walking Initiative.
Keep an eye out for the next LOS competition, which will be re-starting up soon.
Balla Community Centre is looking for a full-time office administrator.
If you’re organised, friendly, and enjoy working in a fun, supportive environment, they would love to hear from you. The role involves general office administration, answering phones and emails, supporting day-to-day operations, working as part of a positive, community-focused team, strong organisational and communication skills, a positive attitude and willingness to get involved and an ability to work independently and as part of a team. Send CVs and application letter to jobs@balla.ie.
Congratulations to Sophia Quinn, Balla Secondary School Leaving Certificate Class 2025, recipient of the prestigious Quercus Entrance Scholarship at University College Cork. The award recognises academic excellence at its highest achievement.
We wish Sophia every success in her future studies.
Congratulations to Balla students, Grace Davoren King, Aoibheann Devaney and Ela Ngwu on coming in the top eight places out of 124 entries, in the Thea Pharma Art Competition.
Ela won €500 for second place.
Well done to all.
Balla Centre hosts a 25 card drive every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the centre at 094-9365843 for more information.
Manulla 25 card game takes place at 9pm in the local centre on Sunday nights. New 25 card players are always welcome.
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ERREW/CLOGHER
The Clogher 500 Club is a local fundraising initiative run by Clogher Environmental Group CLG to support the upkeep and development of community facilities. By joining, you’re directly helping to improve amenities in Clogher while also being in with the chance to win €500 every month.
Membership costs €60 per year (just €5 per month). Each member is entered into a monthly draw for €500. The draw is held in the Clogher Community Centre and streamed on Facebook, so everyone can see it live.
Please contact any committee member or call/text 087-2721574 or message through the Facebook page – Clogher Heritage Centre.
Your support goes straight back into the community – and you could be the next winner.
The Clogher card game is taking a break for Christmas and will resume on January 10th. The cards committee would like to wish a prosperous New Year to all its patrons and to all the community.
The Clogher Active Age Group are taking a Christmas break until January 14th, 2026. They would like to thank all the people who supported them during the year and who helped to make the weekly meetings and the various trips so interesting and enjoyable.
Sincere thanks has been extended to acting principal Ciara Walsh, the Errew National School teachers and staff and especially to the wonderful pupils for such a warm welcome to their pre-Christmas School Mass and the fantastic performance of a very amusing play, ‘The Grinch’.
A really enjoyable morning was had by all present and it was a great start to the festive season. The limited edition outdoor Christmas Tree decorations were also a big hit. Well done to the Sixth Class fundraiser entrepreneurs.
All Re-turn donations to Errew Centre are most welcome over the remaining festive season. It was a really successful venture this year raising much needed funds for the running costs of Errew Community Centre.
Huge thanks have been extended to Marian Deasy for leading this fundraiser.
