Local Notes: Scores of cyclists take partin the Ollie Roache Memorial Cycle in Ballintubber
Pedaling furiously – Scores of cyclists taking part in the recent Ollie Roache Memorial Cycle in Ballintubber. Picture by Tom Quinn
It is with deep sadness we record the passing of Jimmy Joe Staunton, Breaffy Road, Castlebar and formerly of Castlecarra, Clogher, Claremorris. Jimmy Joe passed away on June 23, peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. A member of a well-known family in the region his passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many friends. Predeceased by his parent’s James and Mary, brother Walter and the deceased members of the Staunton and Philbin families, Jimmy Joe is deeply regretted by his wife Margaret (née Philbin), his sons Kenneth and Kieran, daughter Sandra, daughters-in-law Linda and Sandra, son-in-law Damien and his adored grandchildren Roisín, Cathal, Ruby and Michael, his brothers Michael, Colm, Martin and Tom, sisters Bridie, Mary and Margaret, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, extended family and wide circle of friends and neighbours old and new to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
Jimmy Joe’s remains reposed at the home of his son Kieran and daughter-in-law Sandra in Ballintubber, Claremorris on last Wednesday evening, June 25, from 5 until 7pm. There was a large attendance present as his remains were taken to Ballintubber Abbey on Thursday for Funeral Mass at 12 noon with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €10,700 on Sunday, June 22. The numbers drawn were 4, 15, 17 and 21. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Ms Helen, Emma Hopkins, Caroline Heneghan, Seamus Walsh, Declan and Joan Joyce and Rita Nestor.
The jackpot stood at €10,800 on last Sunday night, June 29.
The results from Monday, June 23, Ballyglass FC Lotto draw - the numbers drawn were 1, 18, 22 and 35. There was no winner of the €12,900 jackpot and no match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Ava, Leah and Cara Johnson; Colin Derrig; Joe Sheridan and Nathan Moran.
Winners from Monday, June 23 were: 1st Michael Loftus and Denny McDonagh, 2nd Mary and Richard Carney and 3rd Jimmy Sheridan and Tom Fitzpatrick. The last 10 winners were Pat Griffith and Francie Conway and the raffle prizes went to Michael Loftus and Denny McDonagh. Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all the players for their continued support. The 25 progressive games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
The death occurred recently of Tommy Prendergast, Mountpleasant. Tommy will be remembered for his contribution to the community of Ballyglass, spending a number of years as a bus driver, handyman and grass cutter on the Community Employment scheme. Tommy is survived by his wife Nuala, son Kenneth, daughter Ashling, grandchildren, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, brother Gay, sister Sally, extended family, friends and neighbours. His funeral ceremonies were one of the largest ever seen in the area. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam.
If you would like to be part of the group of volunteers who keep Ballyglass village looking its best, contact Breege on 087 6292164 to get your name added to the group. There is nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work, please turn out and help.
The next Ballyglass Market will be held on Saturday, August 23, in Ballyglass Community Centre. Save the date and net a bargain.
Congratulations are extended to Laura Walsh, daughter of Ann and James Walsh, Parks and David Reilly, who were married on Saturday, June 28, in St Mary’s Church, Carnacon. After a most colourful ceremony the couple hosted a gala celebration for their families and friends in the Great National Hotel, Ballina. They are both wished health and happiness all the days of their married lives.
The summer cemetery Masses programme is as follows; Burriscarra Saturday, July 5, at 7.30pm; Killawalla, Sunday, July 6, at 10am and Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday, July 6, at 11am.
Burriscarra NS Carnacon has received a gold award for their Curious Minds Project 2025. The children were very excited to receive this award and to see all their hard work and dedication pay off with this prestigious award. Pictures of the work they submitted for the Curious Minds projects can be viewed on the link -https://www.youtube.com/live/BY5SJ0P1zAE.
The Christian Community in Ballintubber welcomes its newest member Seimí Andrew Clancy who was baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on last Saturday, June 28. Congratulations to his parents and family.
Tóchar Phádraig is a sacred pilgrim route from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick, following the ancient chariot road travelled by St. Patrick himself. Step onto a path walked for over 1,500 years. Guided walks bring you through stunning landscapes, fairy hills, and places steeped in legend and story. Upcoming walk dates: Saturday, July 26, and Saturday, August 30. Book your walk online at: https://www.ballintubberabbey.ie/tochar-walks/.
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Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark is seeking a dynamic and outgoing Tourism Officer to join a small, dedicated team of three in the Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark region. This role, funded by Údarás na Gaeltachta, requires a fluent Irish speaker who will be responsible for promoting the Geopark locally, nationally, and internationally, managing events, and engaging with local businesses to develop sustainable tourism initiatives.
Additional responsibilities include developing guided tour offerings, managing social media and digital marketing campaigns, and coordinating with research institutions and geological societies to enhance the Geopark’s profile. Participation in a prescribed training programme during employment is mandatory. This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about heritage tourism, geology, and the Irish language to make a meaningful impact in one of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes.
Email info@jcwlgeopark.ie for job specification. CV with cover note to be submitted by 5pm on Monday, July 14.
A social function will be held in Corley’s Abbey Lounge on Saturday, July 19, to mark the occasion of the recent retirement of Garda Tom Fleming who has served the communities of Ballintubber, Partry and Tourmakeady areas for many years. More details to follow.
It has been announced that a brand-new Irish Summer Camp will run at Coláiste Muire, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from July 14 to 18 from 10am until 3pm daily. The camp is open to all 4th, 5th, and 6th class primary school students and this camp is suitable for all levels of Gaeilge. Students will improve their Irish through a wide range of fun activities, such as sports, drama, arts and crafts, cooking, and the 'camps fittest family' challenge. The cost is €60 (camp t-shirt included). Registration is open. For more information contact; spraoinalocha@gmail.com.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, June 28, stood at €17, 800. 3, 11, 15 and 30 were the numbers drawn at the previous draw and there was no jackpot winner. 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. Congrats to Tuar Mhic Eadaigh LGFA on their 6-07 to 2-12 win over Kiltimagh to claim the Tara Ryan Memorial Shield.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire running from July 21 to July 25 running from Monday to Friday. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady Churches. Interested persons are asked to please give you name to Fr Jarlath or email, partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on June 7 was Yvonne Finn, Churchfield with ball number 19. The winner of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on Saturday, June 14, was ball number 42, Michael John Casey Congratulations and many thanks for the continued support.
Ciorcal Cniotáil/Knitting Circle: Tegan a Grúpa Cniotáil le chéile gach Oiche Luan i Halla Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ón 7.30-9.30 in. Fáilte roimh bail nua. The Knitting Circle comes together on Monday nights in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from 7.30- 9.30pm. Further details are available from 087 7657191.
Mayo Cancer Support, at Rock Rose House, thank all those who supported and facilitated its recent church gate collection in St. Patricks Killawalla, on the weekend of June 21 and 22 last. Special thanks to the volunteer collectors. A total of €271.20 was raised. These funds will support the ongoing provision of emotional support to local people affected by cancer.
Congrats to Owen Hallinan who was the 3rd winner of the bonus ball 50/50 draw netting €470. Thank to everyone who has supported the 50/50 Bonus ball community day fundraisers.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Paul McAlpine who was a recent winner on June 11. Thanks to all for their continuing support of the club. Last week the clubs U9 boys held a blitz involving Ballyheane FC and Castlebar Town FC. There followed a great evening of football with great skill and teamwork shown by all 3 clubs. The evening concluded with some light refreshments served to all players.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evening with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Tim and Ann Marie Foley who were recent winners of the draw. The couple won €100 on number 42. The latest draw was on Saturday night, June 28. All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’Neill at 087 2860565.
The Dementia Cafe continues on the first Tuesday of every month, (Tuesday, July 1) in the Tacu Resource Centre, Ballinrobe from 11am to 12.30. This month they will have the fabulous Brenda Grealis vocalist and instrumentalist providing some great music and performance. All welcome and refreshments supplied. Volunteers are required and they can contact Marie on 087 170 8706 for further details.
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The death has occurred last week PJ (John) Gavin, Gortaruaun, Belcarra, Castlebar and late of Leitir, Islandeady. PJ passed away on June 18, peacefully in the intensive care unit in the Galway Clinic, after a short illness borne with great dignity, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents Martin and Margaret Gavin (Leitir, Islandeady) and infant sister Catherine, he is deeply regretted by his heartbroken family, wife Eileen (née O’Donnell), daughters Zara and Jenny, son James, grandsons Senan and Leo, father-in-law Jim, mother-in-law Maura, sisters Noreen (Staunton, Castlebar), Eileen (Corcoran, Westport), Mary (Hanbury, Castlebar), Teresa (Garrivan, Westport), Anne (Gallagher, Westport), Pauline (Sloan, England), Margaret (Holland, Westport), Joan (Kenny, Castlebar), brothers James (Gavin, Westport) and Martin (Gavin, Leitir), brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, son-in-law, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
PJ’s remains reposed in Belcarra Community Centre on Friday, June 20, from 4pm with removal at 6.30pm to his residence. His funeral cortege arrived to St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra on Saturday, June 21, at 10.15am for Requiem Mass at 11am. Afterwards PJ was laid to rest in Guesdian Cemetery, Belcarra. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
The annual Townland v Townland tug of war competition will take place at the Belcarra Sports Day in early August. Townlands are urged to get your teams ready for Saturday, August 9: Men’s and Ladies competition -Teams of 8 - 6 pullers plus 1 sub and 1 coach. The pride of your townland is at stake - No pressure. Let the training commence.
Plans are well advanced for a major benefit dance in aid of a great cause. The benefit dance entitled "Bring Breege Home" will be held in Breaffy House Hotel on July 4 at 9pm. Music will be by Concorde and local artists. It is sure to be a great night with some fabulous entertainment, raffle and great spot prizes. Tickets modestly priced at €20 will be on sale soon and everyone is urged to come out and support the worthy cause.
The Christian community in Belcarra have welcomed Stanley Liam Walsh and James Andrew Connor who were baptised recently in St Anne's Church, Belcarra. Congratulations to their parents and families.
On July 13, there is a One Day- One Competition - One Club Handball Legends Competition. Belcarra Handball Club is calling all past and present members for an epic showdown in the 60x30 alley for a mixed doubles event. Bring the buzz, the banter, and enjoy the game. It’s the Nestor Cup 2025 – Make It Legendary. There are some spaces available in the weekly U10 session for boys and girls on Sundays from 10–11am. If you know anyone who might like to give handball a go, they’re more than welcome to come and try it out.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €12,400. The jackpot stood at €12,300 on Sunday, June 22. The numbers drawn were 3, 19, 25 and 27 and there was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Mary Shine, Conall Lafferty, Noreen and Frank McNamara and Cathal, Caoimhe and Sean Brohan.
The recent advertised Belcarra 8k Fun Run was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. The organisers have expressed profound regret and apologise for any inconvenience caused. It is intended to reschedule this event for a later date in the summer and the new date will be advertised.
Breaffy GAA Lotto results for June 24 - the numbers drawn were; 8, 20, 27 and bonus number 10 and there was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at €16, 000 for the draw to be held today, Tuesday, July 1.
The current Ballyheane Community Council has reached the end of their three-year term and there will be an election to form a new committee. Ballot papers will be distributed to every household on the weekend of July 5 and 6. The completed ballot paper will be collected on July 12/13. Each household is asked to nominate one male and one female to represent their area. They appeal to younger people in the community to take this opportunity to get involved in a very progressive community.
Several projects highlighted in the Community Futures programme 2022-2027 are currently underway. The handball alley, the extension to Ballyheane National School, restoration and the maintenance of the old graveyard, road safety projects on the approach and main road to and from Ballyheane and new stands for Ballyheane Soccer Club, to name but a few projects. The Tidy Towns group, weekly bingo, kids club, active age, and social events all have the support of the community council members.
The council thank all who have given their time over the last three years and look forward to a new committee that will initiate new projects while maintaining the existing projects. All are urged to take the opportunity to vote and participate in the future of Ballyheane.
Deepest sympathies are extended to Ann Staunton, Ballyheane, on the sad passing of her beloved brother, Noel O’Toole. Noel, late of Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick and formerly of Kanturk, Co. Cork, and of Browsers, Limerick passed away on June 21 in the exceptional care of the staff at University Hospital Limerick.
Sincere sympathy is also tendered to his wife Sally-Ann, his family and all who mourn his passing. His remains reposed at Griffin’s Funeral Home; John’s Gate on Tuesday, June 24, from 5-7pm and arrived at of St John the Baptist Church, Kilcornan, Co. Limerick on Wednesday, June 25, for Requiem Mass at 10.30am. His funeral took place afterwards to Shannon Crematorium, Co. Clare for 1pm Service. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
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Balla GAA Lotto draw was held on the Thursday, June 19, in The Rendezvous for a jackpot of €4,700. 2, 5, 10 and 31, were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prizewinners were Maria Coleman (online), Noel Feeney (online) and Leo Heaney (standing order). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, June 26, in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €4,800.
A summer gardening course will commence on Monday, July 7. The fees are €50pp for the 4 week course. Get in touch with the organisers to book a place (if available) at 087 1850860 or 094 9365846 or contact Balla Community Centre at info@balla.ie.
Manulla FC U12 girls are in full swing preparing for their trip to Newcastle in July for the Trans World Soccer tournament. In order to assist them with funding, the girls and their management team have added a re-turn bottle bin to the Manulla FC grounds. They will be looking for support in recycling plastic bottles to help their funding. They have entered the 'Small Town Big Difference' campaign showcasing their work on encouraging people to return their bottles to Manulla and how they are helping the community. Peruse their video and assist them with the project. Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €1,500 for last Sunday nights draw.
Manulla Summer camp is back at Manulla FC this summer for a week of football and fun from August 18-22. Parents wishing to book a place on the camp, should text your child’s name and age to 083 1753142. Places are limited so please try and book early to avoid disappointment. Last year was a huge success.
Applications for the monitored personal alarm are available at Balla Community Centre for eligible people aged 65 or over. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for further information.
Balla Centre hosts a 25 card drive every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the Centre on 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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On tomorrow evening, Wednesday, July 2, at 7pm past pupils of Errew Monastery Boys’ School are invited to attend the 3rd Errew Prayer Service for the Deceased Members of the Community and also for a group photograph in front of the Monastery to mark 50 years since the school closed and the boys joined Errew Girls’ National School. The prayer service is to remember deceased family, friends and the late Franciscan Brothers and afterwards all will visit the Monastery cemetery at 7.30pm led by Brother Conal Thomas from Corrandulla, a native of Errew. When Errew Monastery closed in 1982, the Franciscan Brothers’ departure had a huge effect on the Errew community. Their focal point disappeared and daily life as they knew it changed forever.
The cemetery service aims to bring the community back together again, allowing them to reminisce and take a step back in time.
All are welcome and refreshments will be served afterwards. Park all cars at the community centre and walk up the avenue to the monastery. Older members can be dropped off at the monastery but space for cars is extremely limited. All enquires to errewcc@gmail.com. Errew Community CLG is most grateful to the Veale family for welcoming the community for this occasion.
Clogher Summers Walks continue every Tuesday evening at Clogher Heritage Complex at 7pm and every Thursday morning at 10am at Clogher Community Centre. There is a choice of distances at both venues and refreshments and a chat afterwards. These walks are along country roads so please wear hi-viz jackets for safety.
Results for Friday, June 20, were 1st Derek Quinn and Tom Fahey, 2nd Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion, 3rd Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons and Mary McDonagh and Bernie Heneghan. The 25 progressive games continue every Friday night.
The Local Link provides a bus service through Clogher on Tuesday and Thursday each week. Call Matt Rowley on 085 1251633 on the previous day to avail of the service. This service is free for travel pass holders.
The Steering Group of the Clogher Community Futures are continuing to work on the results of the community survey. To date the following subgroups have been formed, Care in the Community, Preschool/ Afterschool and Road Safety at the School. These subgroups are based on the most important issues which were raised in the community survey. If people have any suggestions or ideas for these themes or would like to join any of these subgroups, contact Finian on 087 0961210. The next all Community event will be the official launch of the Community Futures Plan for Clogher which will take place in the coming weeks.
