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Vol 18, Issue 10 July 2020
Shop Local
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Blarney Community Council are once again welcoming enquiries from groups who wish to book the Old Convent Hall, Blarney.
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If it’s happening in this area, it’s in The Muskerry News
Congratulations to Andy Mackin, CEO of Mackin, who has made this year’s shortlist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards. 24 finalists from across the island of Ireland have been shortlisted from more than 100 nominations by an independent judging panel of previous winners. The entrepreneurs will compete across three categories; Emerging, Industry and International, with one overall winner selected as The EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2020 in November. Good luck Andy!
Cork City Council have purchased a site for a proposed amenity park in Blarney. As Cllr Damian Boylan told The Muskerry News, “I am delighted to be able to announce that I have been successful in getting Cork City Council to purchase the 6.5 acres across from Shamrock Terrace, for the purpose of providing a park for our area. “This beautiful meadow and riverside walk will be available to the people and I am sure will be of benefit to our children and grandchildren. The park will be a wonderful addition to the other public spaces in Blarney and will be of great use to clubs, schools, organisations and our community. Its proximity to the village lends itself to so much. “There is a bit of work to be done over the coming months and years to make this area as good as it can be. I am sure that the community and the council will work together to ensure that this amenity will be the best it can possibly be. The medium-term plan would be to link this area with the beautiful Waterloo walk ensuring that our community can have a stunning woodland and riverside walk from Waterloo right down to Shamrock Terrace.” He concluded by thanking Cork City Council and Gerard Forrest who initially flagged the idea and worked with him throughout the process.”
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Dr Una O'Halloran - Tel: (021) 438 5602 2 / Muskerry News
I don’t suppose that Fiona and Deirdre, and Michael Lynch who was gone before we could grab him for a photo, thought when they were asked to help out with Blarney Meals on Wheels for a few days when the country shot down in mid March that 100 days later they would still be there! It’s hard to remember what it was like when everything stopped and it was volunteers like these, without any thought of their own safety, who turned up every day to make sure those who needed a little bit of extra care received it. They are getting back to their full time jobs and lives from today, but we couldn’t let them go without saying a huge thank you, it’s people like this that make the world go round. #localheroes
Muskerry News / 3
We are all aware that Dr John Sheehan was Lord Mayor this year, but you could argue that he was the Lord Mayor of Blarney who made occasional trips into Cork City such was his presence in the village. During this year, a historic year which saw Blarney subsumed into Cork City, our Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress attended our schools, our parties, our functions and our events. They admired our award winning trees, helped turn on our Christmas lights and walked from Darkness into Light with us. In fact we only had to ask and room was found in their incredibly busy schedule for, yet another, visit to Blarney. As their year in office closes we look back on a few highlights of a year which saw them enter the village as Lord and Lady Mayoress of Cork, and leave it as our friends. Go raibh maith agat
4 / Muskerry News
In our May edition we published a story showing the great community spirit shown by Conor McLoughlin who was assisting his dad, Brian, brightening up Donoughmore parish by painting bridges, gates and pumps during lockdown.
Eight-year old Oliver Lynch, Ballincollig, has been congratulated by the President, the Taoiseach and the Lord Mayor of Cork after he raised more than €30,000 for Enable Ireland, Cork University Hospital Charity and Dogs of the Disabled.
The McLoughlins had a nice surprise last week when they received a letter from Bishop Buckley congratulating Conor for his good deeds. Well done Conor, we are delighted all your good work has been recognised.
Oliver Lynch, who has cerebral palsy, walked 100 metres per day for the past 50 days, achieving his goal in front of a crowd of friends, neighbours and media from far and wide who lined the route of his final 100m walk, along with the emergency services. President Michael D Higgins wrote a personal letter to Oliver, Taoiseach Micheál Martin sent a video message and Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Joe Kavanagh was there to congratulate Oliver as he finished. "We're so proud and everybody's so proud," said Oliver's Mum, Alison. "The messages of support from our neighbours around here, from our family, friends, from Gaelscoil Uí Ríordáin have been amazing - we feel very honoured." "Oliver wanted to give something back to people,” Oliver’s Dad Kevin said. ""He has loads of people helping him and he just wanted to give a little something back." When asked by Paschal Sheehy, RTE, what his next goal is going to be, Oliver confidently replied, "Taking over the world.”
Muskerry News / 5
Could the Witch’s Yew Tree be European Tree of the Year?
Some of Blarney’s finest pictured as Blarney Men’s Shed got together for a socially distanced catch up and a complimentary ice cream from Centra as they enjoyed the sun in the square.
Sir Charles Colthurst celebrated Blarney Castle reopening last week by being the first person to kiss the stone. Sir Charles, Lady Caroline and many castle staff are huge Liverpool fans and they also took the opportunity to fly the Liverpool flag to honour the club’s historic win!
A big welcome back to Jo from Jo's Edge Hair Studio in Woodfield, Blarney. Thanks for all the trouble you, and all the other businesses reopening today, have gone to keep us all safe. We'll see you soon!
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Scoil Mhuire gan Smal class of 2020 celebrate with drive in graduation Scoil Mhuire gan Smal class of 2020 marked the end of their time in secondary school with a Covid 19 style drive-in graduation.
The 117 students arrived for the unique event in cars with their parents and parked on the school pitch before students were invited to step out, physically distanced from each other, for the ceremony. A short prayer service was led by Fr Michael Fitzgerald before head prefects, Jennifer Murphy and Jake O’Leary read reflections as students were invited one-by-one to light a candle on stage. Talking to Eoin English in the Irish Examiner head prefect Jake said it was important for the group to mark the important milestone in their lives. “You spend most of your teenage years in secondary school, so it was nice to mark the end of that time in some way and not leave it as we did on some random Thursday in March when it all ended very suddenly and we all thought we’d be going back to sit the Leaving Cert that never came,” he said. Co head prefect Jennifer added that despite the unusual circumstances and the restrictions, she and her friends were happy to mark their graduation together, but apart. “This was a lot different, but we’re making the best of a bad situation,” she said. She said they are now looking forward to their debs and grads, which has been pushed back from August to October. School principal, Padraig Sheehan, urged the group to remain positive and maintain the friendships they made in school. “Even though we are going through a rough patch now, and people are worried about coronavirus, people are also being positive,” he said. “We can all have a down day. Any day can be a down day. But always try to look forward with positivity. “Those down days come to an end. And even with all that is going on at the moment with coronavirus, that too will come to an end.” The school, which is due to accept 162 first students in September, is looking forward to the construction of a new three-storey school with capacity for 1,200 pupils. Tenders for the project are now in with construction due to start within a few months and it is hoped the new building will be ready by August, 2022.
Talk to Caroline, Theresa, Noirin and John advice on your weight loss programme.
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Ashdale House, Blarney Face Masks and Sanitising Essentials Available Covid Tracker Tracer App in Use Here Appreciated Your Patience
Thank you! John, Caroline, Richard, Noirin, Geraldine, Theresa.
8 / Muskerry News
Welcome back! Wonderful to see the doors of The Muskerry Arms open again. With tables sectioned and socially distanced, masks worn where necessary, bookings being taken with contact details, and table service throughout you couldn’t wish to be in a safer place where all regulations are being respectfully adhered to.
Muskerry News / 9
Cloghroe National School had a socially distanced outdoor graduation for their sixth classes recently. Principal Emma Dineen thanked and congratulated the pupils on their eight year contribution to the school and wished them well in their future years. Fr. Buckley spoke to the children and gave them his blessing, whilst class teachers Aileen O’Connell and Rose O’Connor presented the pupils with a lovely gift from the school. Many members of staff turned out to wish the students well on what was a very memorable afternoon for all.
10 / Muskerry News
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13 year local girl Eva Hidden Blarney gem wants to old put the Crowley has raised, as we Spring back in your step! went to print, nearly €900 for
two very special charities BUMBLEance Children's Ambulance and Pieta House. Eva said, “Both charities do vital work for our communities but have faced major fundraising challenges this year as a result of Covid19, so I want to help them with this fundraiser!
I am planning on writing a letter each day to a resident in a nursing home/unit, sent to the Director of Nursing who will direct it to the staff who can read out/give my letters to the residents / patients, who are lonely, due to lack of visitors during this Corona Virus.’ Eva continued, “My inspiration for this came from my Dads' sister (my Aunty Anne), she suffered a brain injury as a result of an epileptic seizure, when she was only 36 years old. Aunty Anne is a resident in a neurology ward in a Nursing Unit in Cork where she receives fantastic care, therapy and rehabilitation. Our family have not been able to visit Anne since the start of March due to Covid 19 restrictions on hospitals and nursing units and this has been hard for all of us as we would normally see her every week. My Nana Nora suffered from Parkinson's Disease and had to move to a Nursing Unit in Cork towards the end of her life, she received great care also before she passed away. As a result of my visits to my Nana and also to Aunty Anne, I am very familiar with going to nursing homes and know that residents often miss their families, friends and also their pets, so it can be lonely at times for them. They love visitors and they also love to get letters in the post, if they are too sick to read the nursing staff or carers can read the letters to them. The last few months has been particularly difficult for those in residential care and I want my fundraiser to help bring a little cheer while also raising money for two good causes.” If you want to help Eva help others you can find her page on gofundme by searching for Eva Crowley.
Wishing popular Blarney lady Rosie O’Riordan, pictured here with husband Con and some of her sisters, a very happy birthday.
Rathpeacon Community Association and Rathpeacon GAA stand against hatred and are beyond proud to support #pride
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A Place in your Heart 12 / Muskerry News
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Good luck to John Chisholm and Ryan Mulroy as they prepare for the Tour de Munster to raise funds for Down Syndrome Ireland. You can support them by donating to www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/11388005_john-and-ryan-tdm-fundraising-page.html
During lockdown, Ballincollig LGFA has taken part in a walking challenge for an amazing organisation called Jigsaw, a national centre for youth mental health.
It’s always great to see new business opening, especially during these times, so we are delighted to welcome to Blarney a new eco vehicle wash opening up in the premises opposite BFS. This state of the art car wash will offer eco wash, steam wash, hand wash, and valets starting from €20. Additionally at the start of August a new automatic wash will also be installed The vehicle wash is suitable for cars, jeeps, vans and trucks and is a very welcome addition to the village.
The family owned and managed Brook Lane Hotel is ideally located a five minute walk from Kenmare town, and on the Rings of Kerry and Beara. Sink into our super king beds, with crisp cotton sheets and plush pillows for the best sleep ever.
“Our players' mental health is very important to us and we ensure that we are there for our players whenever they need us, so Jigsaw was a fitting charity for us to raise money for. We undertook the challenge of walking 1000km as a club over the course of 5 days. Our players, mentors, friends and family took this challenge by storm and ended up walking an amazing 5729.76km in five days and managed to raise over €1,200 for the charity! We are extremely proud of all that were involved in achieving something great.”
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Muskerry News / 13
Blarney & District
Person of The Year Awards 2020
The June Blarney & District Person of the Month is Andy Mackin The shortlist for the prestigious 2020 EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards has been announced with a total of 24 finalists selected from across the island of Ireland, one of whom is local businessman, Andy Mackin. EY Entrepreneur of the Year is a unique global program that supports and recognises entrepreneurial achievement among individuals and companies that demonstrate vision, leadership and success. Now in its 23rd year, the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Ireland Awards programme works to recognise, promote and build a supportive community around Ireland’s high-growth entrepreneurs. Finalists will compete across three categories – Emerging, Industry and International, with one overall winner selected as The EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2020 in November. Mackin CEO, Andy will be competing in the ‘International’ category.
Established in 2004 and headquartered in Cork, Mackin originally began as an Environmental Health & Safety consultancy and in recent years, the business has diversified into the recruiting and talent management space, offering workforce solutions globally, with offices in Ireland, UK, USA, Hong Kong and Shanghai, with upcoming plans to further develop in Canada and Switzerland. “I am absolutely thrilled to have made the finals of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2020” says Andy. “It is such an amazing honour for both myself and all of the team at Mackin and to have the opportunity to be working with a company such as EY is incredible. The EY programme closely aligns with my values and goals as it is passionate about promoting entrepreneurship and empowering business owners to grow their business in Ireland and globally. I am looking forward to a successful year of growth, both as an individual and as a company and I can’t wait to see what the rest of 2020 brings.”
Do you know someone who deserves a Blarney & District Person of The Month award? Send your nomination with the name of your nominee and the reason you wish to nominate them to Blarney & District Person of The Month Awards, The Muskerry News, Church View, Blarney, County Cork or by email to muskerrynews@gmail.com
? Dinkar Lagali Jessica Griffin Robert Gabriel Catherine January February O’Sullivan March April
Valerie Kirby Andy Mackin May June
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Cedar Lodge is a purpose built unit at Bon Secours Care Village consisting of 7 uniquely designed studios and one bedroom apartments suited to independent living in a safe, comfortable and secure environment. It is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, ample walkways and relaxation areas. Each apartment comes with a fully fitted kitchen, en-suite bathroom with low level shower and gas fired central heating. All apartments are completely furnished. While you are staying at Cedar Lodge we take care of all your meals which are provided by our award winning restaurant, laundry, on-site security, access to the G.P and pharmacy, utility bills and refuse collection. We even provide a handy man to look after any minor jobs that you need. Our aim is to enhance the quality of life for all residents in a dignified and respectful environment which preserves independence, individuality and choice.
Can you help us solve the mystery of the emigrating books? We hear of people who have emigrated and returned home but less so of books, but one very special box of books have made their way from Waterloo to Scotland, only to return home again. A very special box of antiquarian books were purchased in Scotland sometime in the past twenty years by popular Ballincollig man Denis Dwyer who emigrated from Ballincollig to live in Glasgow, stopping in London along the way. Following an impressive and varied career, Denis returned home to live with his brother Michael and sister in law Margaret Dwyer in Ballincollig. Denis sadly died two years ago and when sorting out his effects his family came across this box of books and they would like to return them to the family of the owner Thomas O’Leary who it appears was the principal of the, now closed, Waterloo National School, Blarney. The family have no idea how the books came to make their way to Scotland, nor why Denis purchased them and kept them all these years and carried them home with him in 2016 when he moved back to Ballincollig from Glasgow, but they would love his family to have the books back.
To find out more please call us
021 4541566 Email us at carevillage@bonsecours.ie Write to us at Bon Secours Care Village, Mount Desert, Lee Road, Cork.
www.carevillage.ie
Advanced Medicine Exceptional Care
Muskerry News / 15
Vicarstown National School Aislin Au
“I have really enjoyed my
time at Vicarstown NS. I will miss all my friends but I’m
also looking forward to my new journey in
secondary school”
Mr John O’brien, CLASS TEACHER
Niamh Buckley “I will miss my friends, the teachers and staff who have been great in our small school. I'm looking forward to making new friends and learning new skills”
“What a strange year it has been for the Class of 2020 – one I’m sure they will never forget! I am so proud of them for how well they have coped during these challenging times. They have shown a huge amount of courage and maturity and have been great role models for the younger pupils in our school. To these graduating students, I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching you for the past three years and I wish you every success and good wish as you embark upon your new journey. I urge you to work hard and embrace all the positives of life for the future. Go n-éirí libh!”
Mark Breen “I will miss Sciath na Scol and the school tours. I’m looking forward to all the new subjects in secondary school and making new friends”
Shauna O’sullivan “I’ve had a great time in Vicarstown school and I will really miss it. I will miss the teachers, the school tours and the Christmas concerts. I’m looking forward to starting in my new school also!”
Faye Buckley “I have great memories of Vicarstown school and I will really miss it. I’m also looking forward to the new challenge of secondary school”
16 / Muskerry News
Meg Dorney “What I’ll miss the most about primary school is the school tours, the fun classroom/yard activities and the visits to the Junior Infants and Rang Liath”
Congratulations...
Scott Lyons “I will miss a lot of stuff when I leave Vicarstown. I will miss VEX IQ, Sciath na Scol, the school tours and the people who are not going to BCS. I will miss reminding Mr O’Brien every Monday who is going to win the Premier League and how far Man United have fallen”
Ava Hanlon-mahar “Hi I’m Ava. I am going to miss school and all my friends in Vicarstown but I Bríd Hegarty am also looking forward to making new friends in “On the last day of 6th Class I didn’t realise it would be the last first year” time our class would be taught in our classroom. While all the teachers were busy sorting things out, I went with a few others to pull up grass where we were going to plant flowers and before we left the debating teacher gave us our speeches for the debate in 2 weeks, I had no idea how big the situation was... I would much rather go back to 6th class again”
Caoimhe Jones “I've loved my time in Vicarstown National School and have lots of good memories of my time there. I've made great friends and I'm excited to start secondary school with them”
Reece Murray “What I will miss the most about primary school is Sciath na Scol & all my friends. My hopes for the future are to try my very best in all I do. To work hard and to become successful”
...Class of 2020
Seán Mulcahy “I will miss going home at 2.30pm; having no homework on Fridays and our school tours! I am really looking forward to doing new subjects, making new friends, learning new sports and so many new experiences!” Gráinne O’sullivan
“I will miss my teachers and the happy school environment but I look forward to all the adventures ahead as I enter secondary school. I can't wait to experience all of the new amazing subjects”
Ericka O’sullivan “I’ve had a really great time at Vicarstown school – the friends I’ve made, the school tours, all the fun times. I’m also excited to start secondary school and I’m looking forward to learning new things”
Muskerry News / 17
Local Communities don’t let Coronavirus stop good work!
Local communities haven’t let a pandemic stop their wonderful work as they cleaned and improved our areas. The Kilcronan community got together to clean up a 2k stretch and the picture says it all. More than twenty people helped and you can see how much litter they managed to pick up, as one of the organisers Michael told us, “Thank God community spirit outweighs this sort of behaviour.” So much fabulous work was done in Blarney by our Tidy Towns volunteers. We really would be lost without these wonderful people who keep our village looking so good. Thank you! The Rathpeacon community paid a massive thank you to RedFox Recycling who helped them with their recent clean up by organising the collection of rubbish bags from the road side and disposing of them. As Bethan said, “Wonderful community effort to help us all take some pride in our area. Thank you.”
18 / Muskerry News
Although Ballincollig Tidy Towns has not as yet officially started back after being stood down due to the Coronavirus, many Volunteers have been busy carrying out Litter Picks throughout Ballincollig. This has made such a difference. More Volunteers are back out each week which is encouraging. During the week sixteen bags of litter were collected. In addition, one bag of glass, one bag of cans and one bag of plastic were collected.
Busy month for Ballincollig Tidy Towns The benches around Ballincollig are in need of some TLC so Denis, one of our Volunteers, started work on them. Over the next few weeks, they will all be sanded down and repainted. Whether to sit and chat with a friend or to watch the world go by, plenty of bums have settled themselves on these benches over the years. Having them all spruced up will be very welcome. Despite some showers last Saturday, one of our Volunteers managed to cut the grass on the Poulavone Roundabout. This took some time as there was plenty of growth. There were a huge number of bees and butterflies on the pollinator plants which was wonderful to see. The volume of traffic in the area was similar to precovid numbers which is certainly a positive sign as it gives a sense of normality.
The first of three River Events took place last Saturday. These events are being organized by the BeautifulLee Group set up by Mary, after time she spent with her family along the river during lockdown. The idea for the group came about from becoming reacquainted with the river and the area along it over the past few months. Many happy hours were spent there skipping stones, enjoying picnics, fishing and walking. So much so that Mary was keen to know more about the nature and the water and to share it with others. She also wanted to tidy up the areas that were littered. The Chairman of Ballincollig Tidy Towns, Tom Butler said they would do their bit and provide litter pickers, high-vis vests, refuse bags and gloves for the events and would also collect the filled bags of waste. And so, last Saturday around 30 people of all ages gathered at 10am by the Inniscarra Graveyard. They got to work and collected 8 bags of rubbish and one old mattress. After this was completed, the kids and some of the adults enjoyed making chalk creations on the pebble beach. Pat O’Callaghan provided historical background on the area which was very informative. Everyone had a very enjoyable time and new friends were made. There are two more events planned (so far) on the first Saturday of August and the first Saturday of September. Hopefully people will come out and join the BeautifulLee Group. Check out the River Event blog on our website www.ballincolligtidytowns.ie
Two bags of green waste were collected from Leo Murphy Terrace. A big thank you to the residents of Glendower who carried out a Litter Pick in their Estate. Despite the fact that work could not be carried out over the past few months due to lockdown, nature was not caught up in such restrictions and continued doing its thing. As a result, low hanging branches have become an issue around Ballincollig. In some areas, pedestrians are having to duck to avoid them. Several people out running have commented that a number of these branches are causing an obstruction resulting in them stepping onto busy roads. Ballincollig Tidy Towns has been in contact with Cork City Council who have agreed to attend to them soon. We in Tidy Towns had been promoting a spray free town prior to the Coronavirus. We had started a new initiative on the importance of Pollinators and how we can all make a difference in what we do in our gardens and estates, including not spraying. Driving from the Greenfields towards Coolroe Meadows the difference between the two estates is very noticeable. One has yellow edges as a result of spraying, the other has clean edges as a result of being strimmed. Well done to those involved in playing their part. As soon as BTT is formally back, there will be plenty of opportunities for estates and individuals to play their part with regard to Pollinators and a spray free town. Don’t forget to check out our website www.ballincolligtidytowns.ie
COLM BURKE TD
ADVICE CENTRE Advice Clinic every third Saturday of the month: Muskerry Arms Blarney 10am – 11.45am Wayside Inn Cloghroe 12.15pm – 1.15pm Advice Clinic:
46 Thomas Davis Street, Blackpool, Cork Mon & Fri10am – 1pm
46 Thomas Davis Street, Blackpool, Cork. 021 4564552 / 087 2592839 / 01 6183115 Email: colm.burke@oir.ie Muskerry News / 19
The sun shone for the Scoil Chroi Iosa class of 2020
when they enjoyed a small socially distanced informal get together, organised by parents. They were joined by the Lord Mayor and Lord Mayoress, also finishing up their term of office, who dropped by and gave all the children a very special certificate from Cork City Council. The children and parents are looking forward to meeting again when they come together properly as a school for their graduation when regulations allow. pics Donncha รณ Caoimh
20 / Muskerry News
Muskerry News / 21
Cork City based MC2 Accountants presented a cheque for €2,250 to Cork ARC Cancer Support House on the back of their sponsorship of The Blarney 5’s, a five-a-side soccer tournament. More than 40 teams of local businesses participated in the soccer tournament which took place last Summer. Sean McSweeney, MC2, said, "We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to sponsor an event that not only promoted the physical health and friendly fellowship between local businesses, but also to support such a well deserving Cork charity. We hope this contribution will help Cork ARC to continue to provide a safe haven for people with cancer and their families. We would like to thank all of the teams who participated and give a special thank you to Blarney United, without whose help and support this tournament would not have been possible.” As we get nearer and nearer to the magical day when we see the doors opening at The Castle Hotel the wonderful Conor O’Sullivan, accompanied by musicians Barry Tierney, Barry O’Shea, Tony O’Shea, Eoin O’Brien, prepared a lovely half hour of entertainment featuring favourites such as Machine Gun Kelly, Only You, Across the Universe, Portuguese Hills and more and finishing up with the gorgeous Beautiful Affair by Stockton’s Wing. While the musicians performed out of love, The Castle Hotel and Conor and friends, decided to give people the opportunity to make a donation if they wished in support for Pieta House, now needing fundraising more than ever due to the cancellation of Darkness into Light. Thank you!
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Unit 6B, Woodfield, Station Rd, Blarney 22 / Muskerry News
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Kenmare Bay Hotel & Leisure Centre We are delighted to finally reopen our doors and welcome all our wonderful guests back after a difficult few months.
WEDDING
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Valerie Kirby was presented with flowers by Lady Mayoress Aedamar Sheehan to mark her nomination as May Blarney & District Person of the Month during the last visit of the Lord and Lady Mayoress to Blarney before their term of office ended.
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Detective Garda Colm Horkam who lost his life while carrying out his duty last month was remembered with a minutes silence at Garda stations throughout the country at 12noon on the day of his funeral. May he rest in peace.
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Popular local lady Mary Spillett seen celebrating her special birthday with some of her many friends. Local Donoughmore girl Chloe Sheehan, who has alopecia, spoke with PJ Coogan on 96fm recently about her instagram page @chloeshairaffair which shares her hair loss journey, regrowths, treatments she has received, tips and tricks on wigs and all the highs and lows that come with hair loss. She’s very open about her experience and always willing to help or offer advice to anyone in a similar situation.
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Crowds gather as Blarney Woollen Mills ‘The largest Irish shop in the World’ reopens!
24 / Muskerry News
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Valerie Kirby, Jim McEvoy, Lisa Hedderman & Martina McCarthy, Blarney GAA Healthy Club, raised an incredible â‚Ź17,000 for local charities Blarney Community First Responders, Meals on Wheels, Pieta House and Marymount Hospice during their recent lockdown weekend challenge which they presented to the grateful recipients last week.
Buying or selling a house in 2020?
2020
2019 26 / Muskerry News
Behind the Castle Walls The end of June has heralded a return to what I suppose is to be the new normal. We have now reopened the castle to visitors and are observing the social distancing and hygiene rules to make everything as safe as possible. Managing the gardens is always a challenge but it has been particularly difficult this year. Unfortunately, the weeds do not understand the concept of social distancing, and they are happily mingling throughout the beds and borders. We are slowly getting back on top of things, but we have had to adopt a somewhat wilder look in certain areas. We take a very Robinsonian approach to our management of the gardens and let nature mingle where possible, but it does require a certain level of control to maintain that semi-wild charm that looks so lovely. For example, leaving bluebells to go to seed and wild garlic to die back gives time for other less precious species to grow, and this then requires clearing out. It keeps us pretty busy. The good news is that features like the Tropical Border, Jungle, Poison Garden, and the Herbaceous Border are all looking great. The rose pergola that frames the Herbaceous Border is in full bloom and is a tunnel of scent. It is worth coming just to experience it!
Our newest project is the Fern Garden balcony boardwalk, and we hope to have it completed and open by the end of July. It was originally meant to be completed in the spring but was delayed due to the lockdown. I will be happy to see it finally finished as it will be a great addition to the area. In the glasshouses our peaches have ripened, and the nectarines, apricots and grapes are all coming along nicely. Melons are a new addition this year, and they are doing well too. We also have a promising apple crop. as well as a good range of summer berries. There will be plenty of ice cream and apple juice for the cafe next year! Jobs for July will include pinching out tomatoes and cucumbers side shoots, thinning growth on our grape vines and also thinning the fruit to improve the overall crop and tying in the new growth on the peach and nectarines to form next year’s branch structure. Ongoing watering and feeding is very important. We feed every second week with phostrogen for the ornamentals and seaweed for the vegetables. In this dry weather you should make sure the plant has been watered prior to feeding it so that it does not take up too much too quick. I must talk about the wildlife in the gardens this month. I suppose the lack of visitors has made the animals that little bit bolder and more confident, and we are seeing an increase not only in the sightings of our regular species but also new arrivals in the gardens. Two of our newest residents are stoats and woodpeckers. I have mentioned before that we hold the Wildlife Estate title from the European Landowners Organization (ELO) and we have adopted a management regime that also considers biodiversity and creates habitats and opportunities for our native wildlife throughout the estate, in the gardens, forestry and farm. It is fantastic to see so many rare speciesinsodermatology close to the city. Specialising I hope to see you in the gardens.
Adam
Blarney Meals on Wheels is one of the services that was huge resource to some of our most important and vulnerable neighbours during the lockdown. To help maintain this service we are looking for drivers who are free for approximately one hour per day from 11.45am Tuesday to Friday inclusive. This involves collecting approximately 10 meals each day from The Castle Hotel and delivering them to local homes. We ask that drivers can commit to a full four day week, once a month at least, it is lovely for the people we call to to build up relationship with the person delivering the meal.
If you are available and can commit as above please text your details to Kate at 087 2330398 and we will get back to you. Thank you.
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News from Times Past with Brian Gabriel, Blarney & District Historical Society CASTLES OF BLARNEY DISTRICT Newcastle Castle Blarney OS Survey 62 Newcastle was on the left of a “Y” turn immediately past the lodge of Garrycloyne House, about 5 miles north of Blarney. It was behind two houses on the right-hand side of the road, almost opposite the gates of the present Newcastle House (which is on the other side of the road). Of the two houses mentioned the white house of Thomas and Catherine Donovan is to the rear, and the “Castle Field” is to the back and left of their residence. The castle was to the left or western part of the field. The old stone gates on the roadway past their house are believed to have been the original entry gates to the castle. The drive ran behind the two houses. The Donovans have a lively interest in the history of the castle and the district, and have found a number of objects on the site which include broken clay smoking pipes, one of which is marked with a shamrock, and another with the initials ‘E.R.’ (Elizabeth Regina). They have also found (1) pieces of gravel tempered ware from North Devon of the 17th century, (2) pieces of graffito ware from the same area and century and (3) pieces of German blue stone ware of the 17th-18th centuries. There is no present trace of the castle or of the walls of the bawn, which Michael Donovan believes was of a different, rectangular shape from the present field. On the Jury Map of 1811 the name ‘Rathlin Castle’ seems to be applied to Newcastle. (Rathlin – little Fort). It appears to have been a castle of the Galways. An inquisition of 27th July 1627 was held following the death of Walter Galway in 1581 who described as being of Newcastle ‘in the Barony of Barretts beyond Garrycloyne and Blarney’. Earlier John Galway had died in 1594 seized of Newcastle, Garrycloyne and lands in Kinsale. This was the family, staunchly Catholic, who also owned Dundanion Castle near Cork City, q.v. The Galways may not have been occupiers. After the Confederate War the land seems to have passed on to the Travers family as indicated in the will of Zachery Travers who died in 1675. Andrew Barrett who died in 1727 and is buried in Kilcrea Graveyard is described as being of ‘Newcastle’ but it is not clear whether he possessed the castle; and there is very little recorded history of it from that time. It is likely to have been, at the least, ‘slighted’ during the Cromwellian period. Garrycloyne Castle Blarney OS Survey 62 Garrycloyne was about three miles north of Blarney, and about a mile and a half above Waterloo. It was in the grounds of Garrycloyne House on the rise of a field almost exactly between a lake in the grounds, now largely overgrown, and the river Martin. This lake, with the site beyond it, is in the field where the road forks to the right before leading to Garrycloyne House. By the early ‘sixties two walls only, with part of another, were left standing so the castle, being considered dangerous, was knocked by the County Council.
28 / Muskerry News
In early documents it was described as ‘A lofty square tower’, although remembered as a fairly small castle of the tower house type. It was reputedly built by the MacCarthys on dates variously given as 1535 and 1585. Garrycloyne House has also been ruinous for some years. The property is an out-farm of the Wiseman family. The earlier date, 1535, would seem to have been the more likely if the castle was originally, as indicated, built by the MacCarthys since the Galways, in the person of Walter Galway, the eldest son of Alderman Andrew Fitz-Edward Galway, is described as having inherited Lota, Garrycloyne, Ballydesmond and the other lands in the County and City along with messuages (dwelling-houses with their out-buildings and lands) in Youghal, Kinsale and Kilmallock. He was Mayor of Cork in 1578 and died on 14th September 1581. In an inquisition of the time of James 1 following the death of Walter’s son, John, the latter was shown to have been seized of Newcastle, Garrycloyne and Kinsale castles. Subsequently the Sarsfields (Viscount Kilmallock) would appear to have been the non-resident owners, and the lands, being confiscated in 1692 by the Williamite regime, passed to the Travers family in 1704. The Travers may have been tenants before that time since Zachery, from his will, appears to have been there when he died in 1675. Boyle Travers, an Alderman and banker in Cork City, who died in 1766 married Catherine Cross, and their son John is described as being ‘of Garrycloyne Castle’. John died in 1794, and his son John, who married Rebecca Pyne in 1798, died in 1854. He sold Garrycloyne Castle in 1837 to Samuel Philip Townsend, who had married Frances Newman of Dromore House the previous year. The castle, as a residence, had almost undoubtedly been abandoned by that time and in 1848 Garrycloyne House was described as being ‘spacious and well-built on rising ground, looking over a fine lawn of mor than 100 acres.’ Samuel was at that time on of the County Record Jury. His son, Richard Horatio, born in 1838, died at an early age in 1879 and his son, another Samuel Philip, emigrated to Australia. He was described as a ‘minor’ in the directory of 1883, and his emigration seems to have effectively ended the Townsend connection. His son Philip was drowned in the English Channel during the 1914 war. In 1891 a Mr. Sikes was being described as of ‘Garrycloyne Castle’, but by that time it was the house which was of course meant. The Wiseman family were tenants of at least part of the land under a lease dated October 1869, and the Cork Constution of 23rd March 1916 records a legal action: ‘In the land court today before Mr. Justice Fitzgerald in the case of Samuel P. Townsend, landlord; Julia Wiseman tenant, the tenant appealed from a decision of the sub-commission, who held that when first demised, the holding was demesne, and was intended to be preserved as demesne and resumed as demesne by the landlord. It was held under lease 31 October 1869 from Horatio Townsend and adjoined the grounds of Garrycloyne House. The Justice upheld the landlord.’ James N. Healy was an actor, director and producer of note, a collector of songs and ballads, a writer of excellence, and his last book, ‘The Castles of County Cork’, which he also illustrated in 1988, contained the two above items. He also presented an excellent lecture on the same theme titled ‘Castles Around Blarney’ to the Blarney and District Historical Society on 2nd November 1989.
A limited number of back issues of ‘Old Blarney’ Journals and ‘Old Blarney’ Photo-Journals are still available by contacting 087 2153216, or www.blarneyhistory.ie
Big hearted Pat Burton ensured that Cork's oldest woman, aged an incredible 104, was treated like a queen when she finally got our after lockdown to enjoy a meal at her favourite restaurant. Pat had also visited Mary during the pandemic to wish her a happy birthday in April. As Sarah Horgan in the Echo reported. “Cork’s oldest woman stunned punters at a local bar as she celebrated making it through the height of the coronavirus pandemic. It was 104-year-old Mary McGrath’s first social outing since the arrival of coronavirus last March and the owner of The Model Farm Bar and Bistro, Pat Burton, made sure it was one to remember. The Barrack St resident was welcomed with a bouquet of roses before she celebrated with her first pub lunch since the easing of restrictions. Mr Burton had paid Mary a previous visit during lockdown to mark her 104th birthday back in April. Nonetheless, he desperately hoped that they would soon be able to celebrate properly at her favourite Tuesday haunt. Luckily, the pandemic proved no match for Mary, who made an emotional entrance to celebrate her new-found freedom. She was joined by Carrigaline man Danny Brosnan, the husband of her cousin Geraldine, who has been accompanying her to the establishment every Tuesday for several years. Danny and Geraldine had been taking care of Mary during lockdown, delivering Lennox’s take-aways to her door three times a week. Mary McGrath who celebrated her 104th birthday in April, was brought out for lunch at The Model Farm restaurant for the first time since covid-19 with her friend Danny Brosnan. Picture: Eddie O'Hare Mary McGrath who celebrated her 104th birthday in April, was brought out for lunch at The Model Farm restaurant for the first time since covid-19 with her friend Danny Brosnan. Picture: Eddie O'Hare While Mary enjoyed those nights in, she eagerly looked forward to being back in The Model Farm to indulge in her usual Tuesday pleasures. Despite her impressive vintage, Mary was able to read the menu without glasses. “They do beautiful beef here,” she said. Mary seemed largely unfazed by the events of the last few months, but expressed concern for Boris Johnson’s coronavirus battle. “I was going mad over Boris,” she said. “He was the only one laughing and look what happened to him. I was looking at it all on the TV but there wasn’t much of it here, thank God.” Even as a young woman, Mary never attended grand social events, preferring the quiet life. “There must have been 400 going down to the Arcadia,” she said. “The style was out of this world. The girls were so beautiful. There were no drugs or drink back then. “Everyone just had a good time. I was too tired for any of that. I worked very hard, so I liked to be able to sit back and relax. I could do that at the cinema and loved every type of movie.” Despite the long hours, Mary enjoyed working for Jennings lemonade company.“Cork flooded a lot in those days and we often had to travel to work in a horse and cart,” she said. Mary said she wasn’t negatively affected by the pandemic, and has fond memories of those who helped her though. “On my 104th birthday the Gardaí came to visit me and one of them brought out the cake,” she laughed.
Mary is pictured with her friend Danny and Pat Burton in Eddie O’Hare’s wonderful photograph taken on the day.
“When I was young we were terrified of gardaí. They really had nothing to do because everyone was lovely back then and no real trouble. “There is no fear of today’s gardaí though. They are very nice people.” Staff at The Model Farm had pulled out all the stops to give Mary a belated birthday celebration, with lunch on the house and decorations to boot. She said that during her childhood, people had shied away from birthdays due to the extreme poverty in Cork. “I never had a birthday,” she admitted. “There were no birthdays back then. They weren’t even mentioned, because families were too poor to celebrate. I overheard a woman on the bus a few years ago saying: ‘We had nothing, but we had everything’, and that was so true.” Meanwhile, Pat Burton paid tribute to his favourite customer. “Mary is a true Cork girl,” he said. “While she comes here every Tuesday, she is much more than a regular. We see her as our special guest. “When she came here to celebrate her 100th birthday she was the first to arrive and the last to leave that evening.”
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Muskerry News / 29
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We love the memory tree the children in Grenagh
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A cheque for €5,000 was presented to Cork Penny Dinners representing the proceeds to date of the book ‘Bring him home, the search for Ronan’. The book is a powerful and true story of mental health, homelessness, overcoming massive challenges and how one family was determined to find their brother and bring him home. The story of the search for Ronan is a story of love, despair and hope, and about achieving the impossible. All the proceeds of the book are being donated to Cork Penny Dinners and you can buy the book at Waterstones Cork, Ballincollig Post Office Cork and all online book sellers.
Muskerry News / 31
Berrings NS - 6th Class Memoirs Ailish Grimes Some of my very best memories were the annual plays and musicals. I absolutely loved all the singing, dancing, acting and getting out of class for all the rehearsals and practices. I also relished our many school tours, because I got to be with my friends and have lots of fun on the bus. Aimee Seignott I will always treasure the memories I have made, I couldn't ask for a better school nor for better friends. All of the staff have been phenomenal, always up for a challenge and would never give up on a student no matter what. I will admit I am scared to leave, because Secondary School is so much bigger and will be different. However Berrings NS has given me the skills and confidence to help me with my fear and turn it into excitement. Aisling McCarthy My favorite school tour was in 5th class. We went to Cuskinny. There were obstacle courses, climbing frames and mud pools. I was very lucky I had my sister there because I forgot my lunch and my money. She bought me some stuff and gave me some of her lunch. Aisling O’ Driscoll Although this year has been cut short, I still have many memories with my class from Junior Infants all the way up to 6th class.We have done so much in the past eight years. One big memory I have is winning the double in both camogie and football in Sciath na Scol. Ali Dromey The past eight years have gone so fast. I have made amazing friends and memories that will last forever. My favourite memory is winning Sciath na Scol Camogie and football, but I also really enjoyed all of our school plays. Cathal Lyons What I will miss the most are my friends, the shorter days and no homework on the weekends. Even though my 6th class journey was cut short, and I missed the better half of the year along with my last Sciath hurling season, I will still cherish my happy memories forever. In a career sense, when I am an adult, I want to be a Dairy farmer like my Dad. Charlie Monahan I started in third class. My first memories are of being made feel very welcome by absolutely everybody. I have great friends, incredible teachers and I had a fantastic principal in Mr Walsh. When I grow up I want to become an archaeologist. Conor Costelloe My time in Berrings N.S has come to an end. It was an experience I will never forget. I loved everything about the school. From having the best teachers, S.N.A’s and classmates, not forgetting the one and only Mr Walsh. Out of my entire time in Berrings, the Sciath na Scoil football final was my favourite day. Daniel Murray I enjoyed every year in Berrings with my class. I loved playing Sciath na Scol with my friends and would like to thank Mr Walsh and Mr O'Callaghan for training us. I am looking forward to starting a new adventure in Coachford Secondary school, and learning lots of new subjects. Danielle O Shea What I miss most already about Berrings are my amazing friends and the helpful teachers.We have been involved in many activities over the years. My favourite activity was the day we went to Ballincollig Park. I also enjoyed the Sciath na Scol, our Christmas concerts and our trip to Dublin for the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.
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Heather Foley I wish the Coronavirus would go to hell, We missed our Confirmation, school tours as well. Barry Galvins would have been a ball, Sumo wrestling, pitch and putt, go carting and all. Although I must say school wasn`t so drab, Over the years we had tours that were fab. In 4th class we had a trip to Waterford, Our singing was so loud China could have heard. Willy Wonka our play came so soon, Our acting and singing was over the moon. 5th class our trip to Dublin for JEP, We stuffed our faces at McDonalds until we turned green! We won Sciath na Scoil how amazing it was, Getting our medals and a round of applause. Finally 6th class what a year its been, It feels so crazy that I'll soon be a teen. Although 6th class got cut off a bit early' Nothing can take away from my Berrings NS journey! Darragh O’Donoghue I have really got to know everyone in my class this year. I have really enjoyed lots of school events such as Sciath Na Scol, the basketball tournament, the school quiz and the European Song Writing Contest. It’s a shame this year was cut short by the Corona Virus. I have also had lots of fun other years doing things such as, JEP in Dublin, my Communion, Christmas plays and school tours. Thanks everyone in Berrings. Darragh O Shea My best memory is when we won the football final which I scored a goal in. It was a great day out, I had lots of fun. After the final we went back to the hall of our school for pictures and food. We were put in the Echo newspaper, which I was mentioned in. I was playing in full forward number 14 my favorite position in football. The referee was very fair and good for giving us a penalty. Ellen Mc Sweeney From day one in Berrings, I loved our class .We were such a close bunch and no one was ever left out. Our school play ‘Willy Wonka’ I will always remember it as being such a great experience and so much fun. I would like to thank all the teachers as they have taught me life long lessons that I’ll bring with me to secondary school. Mr. Walsh’s handshakes that we’re given every morning without fail will be greatly missed. Berrings Abú!
Berrings NS - 6th Class Memoirs Niamh Desmond When I joined Berrings in first class I did know a lot of people because when I was in Sheila’s. Sadly we didn't finish Berrings on a high note because of the Coronavirus which is really sad. I will miss the school because walking down the hallways talking to different teachers is really fun. I also like that Berrings finishes early as Coachford Community College, the secondary school I'm going to, doesn’t really have half days. When I'm older I would like to be a vet but I could change my mind yet.
Harry Lynch This hasn't quite been a normal year by any means, but nevertheless I sure had a great time! Our teacher Mr O’Callaghan has shone a light on everyone this year. He always gave everyone an equal chance. We haven't had a male teacher since 3rd class. I would assume Mr O’Callaghan is reading this - so thanks! I think taking part in this year's Sciath na Scol really helped me. I also somehow scored a goal. Pure luck! Jack O Mahony I have had a great time in Berrings with my favorite subject being Maths. My best memories have been playing Sciath na Scol with Mr. Walsh and Mr. O’Callaghan as our coaches. We made it to five finals, lost two but won three. I will miss Berrings but I am looking forward to secondary school in September, hopefully!
Nicholas Glazier My favourite memory of my time in Berrings NS, was when all of the altar servers went to Cobh to visit the cathedral when I was in 5th class. My final mention has to go to Sciath na Scol - When we won the football finals in both 5th class & 6th Class - it was unbelievable our team were filled with joy! Sarah O Connell We have gone on many outings such as school tours, swimming, Sciath trips, rowing, basketball and many more. We even got to go to Dublin last year for our inspiring JEP experience. One of my favourite memories is of the musical ‘Willy Wonka’ when I played Mrs Gloop. I will miss everyone but I am looking forward to going to Colaiste Choilm, to make new friends and learn many new subjects.
Kieran Keohane What I will miss most are all my friends and the teachers and all the fun school tours we went on. Also I will miss the buzz of the 5 Sciath na Scol finals we were in, we were lucky enough to win 3 of them. Along the years we did musicals and plays, which were good fun. Mr Walsh was a very good principal and Sciath na Scol coach. Mr O’Callaghan was also a very good teacher all round. I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life.
Seán Óg Holland It’s our turn to exit Berrings N.S . and to start at the bottom of the ladder again in 1st year. I will miss Berrings very much but I feel ready for a new beginning. We had the best class. We were all the best of friends at the age of 5 and we still are the best of friends las teenagers. I hope we will be lifelong friends. My favourite memories in Berrings are playing hurling, football, JEP and rowing. Thanks to all the staff for all their kindness and help.
Lucy Whelton It is with a very heavy heart that I say goodbye to Berrings National School. The eight years I have spent there have been filled with fun, happiness, laughter, friendship and Oh yes, a top class education. Over the years, I have wonderful memories of special occasions. Finally, thanks to Mr. O Callaghan, Ms. Kelleher and all my past terrific teachers, the entire staff and my fantastic classmates for making my time with you all so unforgettable. I will miss you all.
Senan Brislane My memories will be the ones I will cherish forever. From the moment I walked through its doors in 2012, we have had many highs like when we won the Sciath na Scoil hurling final when I was in fifth class! I’m really going to miss everyone, the extremely kind, caring staff and especially my friends. I’ll miss seeing everyone every day at school.
Jack Shine 2012-2020 have been the best years of my life so far. I can honestly say that I started with the best class. Here are some of my best memories. School Tour to Waterford, Yard, Sciath na Scol, school plays, P.E, and the JEP in Dublin. The time in Berrings has gone way too fast. It is now time to start a new chapter of my life.The Teachers were so nice. Our class was like a family. Josh O Sullivan The first memory I’m going to say is the JEP showcase. It was so amazing seeing an item we made sell like the b-shirts did. Seeing Marty Morrisey presenting the awards was great. We made over 300 euro profit. We could get our initials on them. I got one myself. My best memory was winning my first football Sciath finals. I was in 5th Class and was the goal keeper. It was such a spectacular memory because I made two of the best saves I have ever made.
Sophie Dromey The memories that stuck most with me are the Sciath Na Scol Camogie final, the indoor Camogie blitz, my first Day, the dance we did in our Musical ‘Annie.’ I’m really sad that we can’t finish out last year properly, I am really going to miss everyone. However I still have lots of great memories from my years in Berrings, and I have made friends for life. Tadhg O Sullivan In 5th Class, we all participated in the J.E.P (Junior Entrepreneur Programme). We all used our imaginations to think of a product that we could sell.We then proposed and presented our ideas to our ‘Dragons’ .We were selected to go to the RDS in Dublin, with our final product (the B-Shirts). The whole process was great fun and everyone enjoyed it.
Muskerry News / 33
Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing 24-hour fitness franchise, opened its fourth club in Ireland on Monday July 6th in Ballincollig. This is the first new gym to open in Ireland since lockdown and has been designed around social distancing guidelines. This includes not just the spacing of equipment, but individual private shower rooms and changing rooms. Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing 24-hour fitness franchise, opened its fourth club in Ireland on Monday July 6th in Ballincollig. This is the first new gym to open in Ireland since lockdown and has been designed around social distancing guidelines. This includes not just the spacing of equipment, but individual private shower rooms and changing rooms. The new Anytime Fitness gym is being managed by none other than Cork City Ex-Football Striker George O’Callaghan who was recently inducted into Cork City FC's hall of fame. George is a former football player and club manager with clubs across the UK and Ireland and since his retirement he has worked with several sport companies across Europe and Asia. George has a huge passion for fitness and is looking forward to bringing his expertise and experience to the team at Anytime Fitness Ballincollig. The company behind Anytime Fitness is Holohan Fitness, part of the Aura Holohan Group, which was founded by two Cork brothers Gar and Bill Holohan, who were raised nearby in Bishopston and educated in Coláiste An Spioraid Naoimh. The Aura Holohan Group is the largest health and fitness operator in Ireland, operating over 15 leisure centres and gyms nationwide including Anytime Fitness, Aura Leisure and DKIT Sport. The gym was due to open its doors for the first time in March but due to the government restrictions had to remain closed until this week. The company’s Health & Safety experts have been liaising with industry representative bodies and Government agencies to ensure they are implementing the highest standards of health and safety protocols across all Anytime Fitness gyms. No strangers to excellence in Health and Safety, the Group won 2 awards at the National Irish Safety Awards last year and confirmed, “The safety of our staff and customers is our highest priority and that is why we decided to wait to open until the first week in July so we could ensure we have everything in place and staff fully trained’’. Speaking about bringing the franchise to his native Cork, Aura Holohan Group Chairman Gar Holohan, a former international squash player, said ‘’We have been operating the Aura Youghal leisure centre for the past 12 years in partnership with Cork County Council, so we are delighted to be now be opening our first Anytime Fitness gym in Cork as well.” Anytime Fitness are the only gyms in Ireland that are fully operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which is great news particularly for anyone not working a 9–5 such as in the hospitality industry or in the Cork University Hospital.
This gives members the convenience to work out whenever it suits their busy lifestyle. A relatively young gym brand in Ireland, what’s great about the Anytime Fitness gyms is that they are a part of a worldwide network of over 4,500 gyms across all 7 continents servicing upwards of 4,000,000 members. As a member of Anytime Fitness, members have access to them all. Join one gym, use them all! The refreshingly different fitness franchise not only has made fitness more accessible by being the first to bring the 24-hour gym model to life in Ireland, but their welcoming and inclusive culture builds communities. Ranked #1 on Entrepreneur’s prestigious Top Global Franchise list, Anytime Fitness is the fastest-growing gym franchise in the world. The Anytime Fitness mantra is to help Make Healthy Happen. No matter what a person’s starting fitness level is or what their motivations are, there is a clear focus on providing a more premium and inclusive experience to members to foster this. Sign up and receive a free, personalised Get Started Plan before being guided through your own personal fitness journey by the friendly, professionally trained staff. Anytime Fitness is focused on real people, standing against expectations or images of perfectionism. Everything from the design and gym floor layout to the carefully chosen staff and class schedule is carefully thought out to make it easier to get people over the hurdles of getting healthier. Virtual Fitness classes are available 24/7, 365 days a year and every member can access a free workout app developed to educate members about training techniques and provide them with over 100 programs. The new Ballincollig Club will also feature the new design layout, which is based on a guest-centric approach with state of the art equipment, virtual technology and body composition analysis. Anytime Fitness know that people want the freedom and accessibility of services right when they need them, and this innovative thinking along with their superior quality standard of facilities has led to their popularity all over the world. Using a security access fob, members can use the club at the time that suits their busy schedule. Remote monitoring of surveillance systems and personal safety devices ensure you are safe at all times. Certified personal trainers will also be available to help you energise your workout and challenge your limits. More than ever, Anytime Fitness are determined to drive their mission of ‘Let’s Make Healthy Happen’ and look forward to welcoming all of their customers and assisting them in getting back to their health and fitness goal safely.
Anytime Fitness, East Gate Old Fort Road, Ballincollig, Cork | www.anytimefitness.ie
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Muskerry MOTORING
Pic 3 Marion, Abbey, Leo and Leah O'Sullivan, Dripsey. On the road again. Roy Collins, PermaFROST, presenting sponsorship of the Ballincollig Vintage Motor Club's run to Gougane Barra on Sunday 26 th. July to Kevin McSweeney, club president. Included is Roy Collins Jnr.
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Situations Vacant
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Classifieds & Personal
Personal Classifieds - FREE, Thanksgiving - €10 Business Classifieds, prepay €10 for 20 words. Name:................................................................................... Address:................................................................................ .............................................................................................. Contact Number: ................................................................. My Classified Advertisement is:............................................ .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. ..............................................................................................
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Send your classified ads to: Muskerry News, Church View, Blanrney, Co. Cork or email: muskerrynews@gmail.com
The Irish Wheelchair Association seeks to recruit qualified Nurses for weekend morning work in the Blarney area. The role includes supporting a good- natured young man, with significant disabilities, in his own home as part of a two person team. Shifts 9am – 1pm Saturdays and Sundays. Full HSE rates & excellent working conditions apply.
For further information contact Trish Cooney on 087 7589099 O’Flynn Medical are looking for staff to work in their new facility at Macroom Environmental Park, Bowl Road, Macroom. The role is for General Operatives, a full time position with an Immediate start. Must be fluent in spoken and written English. Basic Computer skills would be an advantage. For further details contact John Moylan on 029 21799 john@oflynnmedical.com. www.oflynnmedical.com
CLEANER required for Berrings National School. Please forward C.V. and details
on or before Monday 27th July 2020 to Fr. Damien Lynch Chairperson, Board of Management, Parochial House, Berrings, Co. Cork.
Service’s Available Sewing Machines Sewing machines repaired and serviced. Phone Pat on 087 4170868 All Doggie Hair Doo’s 086 8478762 Don’t forget your Best Friend! Full grooming service and wash only available. Late evening appts on request Why not drop your doggie for grooming whilst you shop at Blackpool Centre? ServicesShopping A Two Hearts Meet are matching single & unattached people since 2011. Why not get in touch and we will help you find your special someone! Call 085 7742444.
Low Cost Counselling Life can be difficult and we all struggle with grief, loss & loneliness at times. Don’t be alone. Reach out! Low cost counselling available from Mary Malone Counsellor and Psychotherapist Call 087 9941594 Dermot Casey Tree Care All tree problems solved without delay. Free quotations & fully insured. Call the experts on 022-55000 www.dermotcaseytreecare.ie It’s time to clean your carpets! Blarney & District Carpet andUpholstery Cleaning Service.No job too small. 087 6384396. Downey Floor Sanding Floor Sanding & Dealing.
ESSENTIAL SERVICES Emergency Services
Ambulance, Fire, Gardai 999 Blarney Gardai 4516290 Ballincollig Gardai 4214680 Gurranabraher Gardai 4946200 Blarney 021 4385440 Ballincollig 021 4871111 Grenagh 021 4886105
Doctors
Dr Una O’Halloran 4385602 Ballincollig Family Practice 4870808 Blarney Medical Centre 4382077 Tower Medical Centre 4385348 T
Dentists
Onslow Gardens Dental Practice 4398572 Blarney Dental Practice 4385664 Niall Coonan Blarney 4385973
Opticians
O’Connor Poole Blackpool 4397399 Anne O’Donovan Blarney 4383128
Pharmacies
PFP Tower 4385225 PFP Grenagh 462998 PFP Onslow Garden 4398135 McElligotts Blarney 4385307 Walshs Blarney 4381223 Cloghroe Pharmacy 4382244
Contact Jeremy at 4516901 / 087 2372213
Veterinary Clinics
A Sikh temple is now open on the Carrigrohane Road in the former John A.Woods premises for morning and evening worship.
Cabs
O’Connell Chimney Cleaning Blarney. Stoves and Open Fires Contact Darren at 087 653 3480
Blarney Vets 4381823 Abbeyville Blarney 4382583 A to B Cabs Blarney 4516666
Credit Unions
Blarney 4381149 Ballincollig 4872305
Churches
Church of the Immaculate O’Connell Window Cleaning Conception Blarney 4385105 Blarney. Contact Donal 087 6592697 or 4383407 (after 6pm). Church of the Resurrection (C of I) Blarney 4877260 Driving Lessons Church of St Mary and St John Beginner / Pre test ADI approved Ballincollig 4871206 instructor. Very patient.Test routes Church of Chri our Light covered.Car available for test. Ballincollig 4876171 Gift vouchers available. St Peters (C of I) Carrigrohane Blarney School of Motoring. 4877260 blarneyschoolofmotoring.com 087 2796008
Muskerry News / 37
SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS THE GULLY, BLARNEY
Let your customers know the Service you offer.
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To place an ad with us call Dick: 087 251 3126 or Kate: 087 233 0398 muskerrynews@gmail.com
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CA L L 085 1804208 C.B. Cycles, The Mills, Blarney (Behind EMF Fitness)
Riordan Garden Care Grass Cutting Trees Felling Hedge cutting Wood Chipper available
ALL GARDEN CARE & MAINTENANCE
Phone 087 410 4369
Canty’s Lawnmowers
Repairs & Service New & Used Spare Parts Collection & Delivery
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Contact us today on - 086 184 1329 38 14
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To place an ad with us call Dick: 087 251 3126 or Kate: 087 233 0398 muskerrynews@gmail.com
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Thank You Coronavirus has changed Blarney; how we work, how we shop, how we learn and how we interact, and it has also changed how we perceive others. Some months ago our ‘heroes’ wore a football shirt, sang to crowds of thousands or entertained millions on a big screen. Today we reserve our cheers and applause for very different people. They wear scrubs, uniforms, drive lorries, collect our bins, work in shops, and de liver supplies. They don’t like to be called heroes, but they are, as they continue to protect us, in many cases saving lives, and in doing so placing themselves in harm’s way. From all of us at Centra Blarney we’d like to thank these people. From Stephen and Jemma we would especially like to thank all our staff who have just been amazing throughout these difficult times. We would also like to thank all our loyal customers who stuck with us and helped us stay trading.
Stephen and Jemma Blake
Blake’s Blarney