Local notes: Charlestown Community Christmas lunch
Enjoying the recent Charlestown Community Christmas lunch which was held in the Town Hall Arts Centre.
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA lotto jackpot of €9,400 in the weekly draw held on Sunday night, December 17, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 12, 15, 19 and 28. The winners of the €50 weekly prizes were Mary Murphy and Miriam Colleran. To coincide with the Christmas season the club also gave away a €150 online One For All voucher which was won by Clare O`Doherty, while Serena Horkan was the winner of the lucky dip €150 voucher.
The club had two teams in action during the course of the week with the U14 boys hosting Ballina in an exciting encounter with the Charlestown Cubs acquitting themselves very well in a good game that had many twists and turns. The U14 boys are improving with each outing and have really improved their skills set as they look to build on the super progress they have made since the start of the season. They will be looking to hit the ground running in the new season but for now will enjoy the break as they get ready to usher in some down time and relaxation.
The U16 girls also finished the term on a high with a game against Castlebar in division 2 of the league with the girls showing some real quality and class in a mightily impressive display which shows the quality this team possesses as they go into the Christmas break sitting in the top echelons of the league table. The girls dedication has been rewarded with some fine displays and well done to each and every member of the team and panel and their coaches who have the team moving in a good direction as they get ready to enjoy some down time and rest. The girls will be keen to keep the momentum going when they return to the court in the new year as they look to secure their place in the top half of the table.
The annual general meeting of the Charlestown Sarsfields LGFA Club took place in the Town Hall Arts Centre recently and a new committee was elected which comprises of the following; chairperson David Kivlehan, vice-chairpersons Richella Murphy and Siobhan Durkan; secretary Gemma Higgins; asst. secretary Ella Doherty; treasurer Susan Gallagher; vice treasurer Trina Donohue; registrar Sharon Egan; vice-registrar Ella Doherty; children’s officer Nora McGivern; vice-children’s officer Sinead Harkin; club liaison officer Laura Hegarty; county board delegates Cailin Durkan, Deirdre Doherty and Clodagh Murphy; fundraising officer(s) Noreen McLoughlin and Patricia Cassidy.
Tributes were paid to outgoing Chairman Noel Gallagher and his team for the outstanding work they did over the course of his and their tenure in charge of the executive. The new committee were wished all the very best for the coming year as they strive to build on the good platform left by the previous committee with the Euromillions fundraiser being one of their main sources of income and revenue as they look to encourage more people to sign up and come on board for six months all the paltry fee of €20. The draw has been well supported since its inception two years ago and the new committee are making a big push to entice new members to join with more information on how to get on board available on the club’s main Sarsfields Facebook page as well as on the Charlestown LGFA Facebook page which contains all the information you need to know with all the necessary links available to follow and sign up to should you wish to subscribe.
The club thank all coaches, mentors and players for their dedication and commitment throughout a busy and hectic 2023 and sincere thanks to all sponsors and people who helped out financially in any way with all support very much appreciated and savoured. The committee wished everybody a happy and peaceful Christmas and peaceful and prosperous new year.
The annual St Stephen’s Day tractor took place on St Stephen’s Day with all proceeds going towards North West STOP Suicide Prevention. The children’s mini-run took place at 12.30pm and they catered for On the Track, bikes, scooters, go-karts etc. A monster raffle was held on the day and your support was very much appreciated.
If anyone would like to receive a silver or gold pioneer pin or indeed become a member of the Diocesan Pioneer Association email achonrypioneers@gmail.com or contact Thomas on 087 2344338.
The East Mayo Athletics Club held their Annual Santa Run in the town on Saturday, December 16, and it was an outstanding success as large crowds came out in support with the youngsters getting the opportunity to meet the great man Santa himself in all his glory. The man in the red suit was escorted through the town in grand style with the lads from the Extreme Tractor Runs stepping in to give Santa a royal escort through the streets. Santa and his Elf were more than kind with their time as they posed for photographs after the run and made time for everyone with the young children starry eyed in his presence. The weather held up which was a real bonus and the East Mayo Athletics Club extend their sincere thanks to their many volunteers who helped out with the run and indeed throughout the year in their many initiatives and activities. The club thank their main sponsor Centra, Bellaghy, for their support with hot chocolate and a treat available for everyone which went down a real treat with all in attendance. The East Mayo Athletics Club wish all their members and the community at large a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous and healthy new year.
Could you spare two hours a month to help the current Community Coffee Morning team? You will meet new people, have some fun, all the while helping others along the way . For more information contact Patricia at 086 8514682 or Sinead 087 2997049 or email info@charlestown.ie.
Classes including jiving and waltzing continue every Monday night from 8pm-9pm at Carracastle Community Centre. Classes are €10 and pay as you go. All are welcome to come along on the night. For more information and to book your place contact Kieran at 087 7414968.
Keep Fit classes with chair-based exercises for the over 60’s are held every Wednesday morning at Carracastle Community Centre from 1am -12 noon. For more information and to book your place contact Sarah at 086 3879635.
Charlestown District and Development Association are this winter seeking to encourage the wearing of Hi Viz materials in the local area when people are walking or running the roads. They kick started this initiative by distributing vests of all sizes (kids/adults) to members of the local East Mayo Athletics Club before their recent training session.
The association are, of course, also encouraging non-running groups and individuals to ‘be seen’, so if you happen to require a hi visibility vest, you can collect one at the following locations; Charlestown Recreation Centre (CBD Sports Complex) from 10.30-1.30pm Monday to Friday except Wednesdays which is 10.30-12 noon, Charlestown Development Association (Barrack Street, 9am-4pm, Monday to Friday. Supplies are somewhat limited but the development association will do their best to meet any potential demand. They encourage all of you walking, cycling or running the roads and footpaths, to please come on board with this initiative and help make the roads and paths safer for everyone.
There was a good turnout at the weekly bridge game held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Wednesday last, December 13, for what was Christmas Party Night with the club extending a big thank you to Grainne for the sumptuous food which preceded the game with the draw for partners taking place after and the following were the prize winners: 1st Mary Lynskey and Mary O`Malley, 2nd Mary O`Connell and Elsie Jackson, 3rd Pat Colleran and Hilary McCrohan, 4th Charles Quinn and Robert Healy, 5th Frances Healy and Maura Kilcoyne, 6th Mary Conway and Teresa Ward, 7th Carmel Moffitt and Margaret Kenny, 8th Michael Dee and Paddy Colleran, 9th Tom Ginty and Michael Ryan and 10th James Mooney and Ogie Moran.
The club offered their thoughts and prayers to the Hamilton and Brennan families who will have an empty space at the dinner table this year. A speedy recovery was also extended to regular player Goretti Henry. The game takes place every Wednesday night at 8pm in Walshs’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown and all are welcome.
Achonry Accord Counselling Service has re-located from Charlestown to the Bishop’s House, Ballaghdereen. It offers marriage and relationship counselling in a secure setting, facilitating couples and individuals to explore, reflect upon and work to resolve difficulties that arise in their relationships. Contact 094 9022214 or email accordcastle-bar@gmail.com.
There was a good turnout at the last weekly 25 card game of 2023 held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Tuesday last, December 19, and the following were the prize winners; 1st Miko Sheridan and Vera Scally, 2nd Paul Flannery and Kevin Maloney. Raffle winners were Paul Flannery, Darby Leonard and Seamus Durcan. The game will resume in the new year as they take a break for the Christmas period.
St Vincent De Paul respects the dignity of those who contact them, offering assistance and advice when sought, assisting people towards long term self-sufficiency in a relationship of friendship, trust and confidentiality. If you need them contact 086 8892098.
The annual Michael Byrnes Memorial match took place in its customary St Stephen’s Day slot in Fr O’Hara Park as the great and good of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club came together to pay homage to one of our favourite sons who was taken long before his time in 1997. It’s hard to believe how those 26 years have passed so quickly as many of us who soldiered with him on and off the field still harbour fond memories of his ability and talent in the Sarsfields colours where he adorned many a big match with some sublime moments of true class.
Michael was a gentleman in the true sense of the word and St Stephen’s Day always guarantees a large turnout as players past and present don the shorts and go to battle for the honour and privilege of taking home the Michael Byrnes Memorial Cup which has become a big deal especially for the older cohort who always take great delight in getting one over the younger brigade. There is always a liberal interpretation of the rules applied by the appointed referee which can lead to a few heavy tackles being shipped and shemozzles breaking out at all ends of the pitch as the turkey and grog from the night before rears its head in a cranky and somewhat tetchy manner.
Tempers tend to be calmed after the lungs start to empty out with the over-30 mob using lots of craft and guile to get under the skin of their opponents. The ladies club also take a full part in the day with a double header of ladies and gents matches providing plenty of cheer and no end of entertainment for the big crowds who add to the nostalgia and sense of fun and enjoyment which the occasion always provides. The games also have a charitable undertone with several local charities benefitting from the generosity of all who attend as everybody digs deep and donates to the said charitable cause in a very benevolent and bountiful fashion. All details around the day will be revealed in next week’s column. More anon
The library is opened on Tuesdays and Thursday from 12 noon-7pm and Saturdays from 11am-4pm. There has been a terrific response to the library since its re-opening and people are encouraged to pop in and say hello to the new librarian Elizabeth and pick up a book from the well stocked shelves with something for everyone available and on display.
Mayo Cancer Support offer a range of emotional supports to people with cancer and their families. For more information call 094 9038407.
The ‘We are Mayo’ book penned by Dr Tom Brett and Sean Rice has been getting lots of traction recently with mention on the Joe Duffy Live Line Programme generating several online sales. It is a fabulous production with some beautiful images and photography with the hardback version in the bookshops only enhancing and adding to a terrific book which would be a lovely present to gift someone over the Christmas period. The book is available for purchase in all book shops and can also be bought online and I would heartily recommend it as it portrays Mayo in a wonderful light and showcases some real hidden gems that are well deserving of a visit and view when making the journey through the huge landscape that is Mayo. The book retails at €25 and is a steal at that price.
Enable Ireland, Mayo Services, require volunteers in all areas of County Mayo to work with children with a disability. Volunteers usually work one to one with a child within their home but also within their community or at the centre in Castlebar. No more than three hours are required per week and work can be arranged around a person’s availability. Training is provided. If you are interested contact Fiona at 087 6808350 or email fscully@enableireland.ie for further information. This is a rewarding activity and volunteers are very positive about their experience.
Life after bereavement can feel very lonely. Trained facilitators conduct a weekly ‘Bereavement Support Meeting’ at the Family Centre, Knock Shrine, each Wednesday at 11am. There is also a special meeting for bereaved partners/spouses on the first Thursday of each month at 11am. No appointment is needed. Further information is available from Monica Morley at 094 9375320.
The death took place in Philadelphia, USA of Mary Meschler nee Harrington, sister of John Harrington (Bushfield) Eileen Lavin (Lavey, Charlestown) and Liz Brett (Dublin). Deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
Keep Fit classes with chair based exercises for the over-60s will resume at Carracastle Community Centre from Wednesday, January 10, from 11am-12 noon. For more information and to book your place contact Sarah at 086 3879635.
Active Retirement meetings take a break for the Christmas holiday period and will resume in the third week in January 2024. The committee wish all their members a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a healthy and happy new year.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €2800 in the weekly draw held on Monday night, December 18, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 5, 9, 14 and 26. The following were the winners of the €20 prizes; Susan Cooke, Shereda Davey Keelan and Rian Hollie Kennedy.
The latest jackpot increases to €2,900 and the draw took place on Monday night, December 26. Tickets can be bought in a number of outlets or via the online platform.
Grow is a mental health support program based on lived experience. This mean Grow groups are a meeting of peers, who are striving to develop and maintain good mental health. If you would like to know more, you can call your local Grow office on 1800 558 268. You can also register for ‘Welcome to Grow’, the online orientation session. This will give you an introduction to how meetings work and an opportunity to ask questions. You can also search for a group close by to you by using Find a Group and just turning up. No registrations are needed.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Sunday night, December 17, as Podsie and the Pillock fought out a terrific scrap in another exciting instalment of the weekly classic. Governor Gus had to be at his best to keep tempers in check as there were several flashpoints at the ochie as the Pillock tried to unsettle the number one seed with some thrash talking among some other antics.
Podsie was in a determined mood from the off and edged a tight first set with a treble fifteen, double 16 blast in the fifth and final leg. The Pillock, stunned to have lost the set having looked in pole position at 2-1, made the better start in set two and was holding sway when he stepped forward to begin the fourth leg with the advantage of the darts. Podsie moved up a gear however and blew his opponent side with some thrilling darts as he put back to back legs on the board to snatch the set and leave the Pillock with a real Grinch look about him as he tried to figure out how he was two sets down having posted much the better average and fired many more treble twenties to boot.
The game remains about finishing however and Podsie is the master of the double and this was never more apparent than in the first two sets as he nailed each chance he was afforded with a brilliant treble/double punch. The Pillock, still reeling from going two sets down, upped the ante at the start of set three as he fired a few verbal volleys in Podsie’s direction which the number one seed batted away with typical class and casualness. It seemed to work for Kenny however as he steamed his way to the third set with some marvellous darts. Kenny was on cloud nine at the start of the fourth and continued to blaze his way across the board as he galloped away with the first two legs. Podsie, unsettled by the histrionics of his opponent, looked a little frazzled as he battled to stay in the set with all the smart money being staked on Kenny taking it to a decider.
Podsie revels when his back is to the wall, however, as he fired back in vintage fashion winning two legs in a row to scupper any notion Kenny had of forcing a fifth set shootout. The game was on a knife edge ahead of the fifth and deciding leg in set four. The huge crowd were emotionally invested in this tussle from the off as both sets of supporters screamed encouragement for their man so to speak. The Pillock had the advantage of the throw but it mattered not one jot to Podsie as he banged in a maximum with his first three arrows to negate any advantage Kenny had as all he could muster was 75 in reply. Podsie, sensing some cracks in his opponent’s armoury went for the jugular in typically ruthless fashion and hit 125 and 138 with his next six darts to heap further pressure on his opponent whose game looked to be unravelling as he struggled to reach three figures with his replies.
The Pillock was doing all manner of chuntering under his breath which led to Governor Gus issuing him with a warning as emotions threatened to boil over. Podsie refused to rise to the bait and retained his composure admirably as he weighed up three darts at 66 with Kenny toiling a long way back in the high 200s. The champ took his time as he weighed up the best route to take before firing in treble ten right into the heart of the bed. This left him with two darts at double eighteen as the crowd broke into an immaculate silence. The number one seed released his second dart which grazed the wire of the bed which left one arrow in his quiver as the crowd offered up their encouragement. Podsie released his final dart with customary conviction as it veered towards the heart of the double eighteen bed. It nestled plum in the centre to set off wild scenes of celebration as Podsie was raised aloft by his joyous band of supporters. The Pillock bore a forlorn look as watched the celebrations unfold before his very eyes but offered his hand in congratulations which Podsie was happy to accept. This was the champ’s tenth victory of the season and one which underlines his rude health as he gets ready to participate in the lucrative Christmas season.
