The Finest Magazine - Issue 16

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BORUMAN KILLALOE

Issue 16 |

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Kennedy Park turns 50

A Triathlon 1000 years in the making

On The 30th May Kennedy Park Brophy Terrace and Cois Carrig came together to celebrate Kennedy Park’s 50Th birthday. Kennedy Park’s 1st residents moved into the estate which consisted of 20 houses. The Estate went on to become the biggest housing Estate in the whole of north Tipperary, today it consists of 180 houses within 3 estates and it’s a close knit community and all the neighbours look out and help one another.

Over 200 athletes took part in the BORUMAN sprint in the sun-drenched picturesque town of Killaloe on Saturday 14th June. In the men’s section, Go Tri’s Davey Richardson won out of after an epic race with Nenagh duo of Shane Scully and rising star Darren Dunne.

Full story page 28…….

Full Story Page 4…….

ROSCREA UNITED FC UNDER 10’S/UNDER 11’S The victorious Scoil Eoin Team after winning the Liam Carson Shield in the Primary Schools Gaelic Football Blitz hosted recently by Inane Rovers GFC & Bernie’s Super Valu in St. Cronan’s GAA Grounds

Wayne “Hawaii 501”

Mardle at The Full House

The young side, dubbed “the best up and coming team in Roscrea” by many supporters put a smile on a lot people’s faces this year with some fantastic performances and incredible skills to ensure they had no loss in any game this year, rounded off with a good finish in the end of season blitz in North Tipperary.

Friday the 13th proved to be somewhat lucky for local darts fans as Wayne Hawaii 501 Mardle made an appearance at The Full House for the St Anne’s Parents Association fundraiser night.

Wayne Mardle a former professional darts player who once reached the ranking of fifth in the world is hugely popular among darts promoters, television audiences and the core darts fans. He acquired the nickname “Hawaii 501” when playing on the BDO circuit he wore Hawaiian shirts on the oche for a bet. Wayne is one of the rare breed that has an abundance of charisma, matched with professionalism and most important of all a down to earth sense of humour.

Turn to page 51…….

Turn to page 49……….

Another Unbeaten Team!!

A huge congratulation to the Roscrea United FC Under 10’s who went the entire season undefeated!!

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23/06/2014

13:58

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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BORUMAN Killaloe – A Triathlon 1000 years in the making

BORUMAN 1000 Years Sprint Triathlon

Killaloe, Co Clare 20th June Over 200 athletes took part in the BORUMAN sprint in the sun-drenched picturesque town of Killaloe on Saturday 14th June. In the men’s section, Go Tri’s Davey Richardson won out of after an epic race with Nenagh duo of Shane Scully and rising star Darren Dunne.

Dunne and Richardson were first into T1 after a fast swim through the town, down the Shannon Canal. Talented Tralee junior Cillian Tierney was 3rd with GoTri’s Jason Fitzgerald in 4th. Scully exited the water 30 seconds down in 5th place but put in a storming bike leg to lead Richardson back into T2.

Starting the foot race the gap was less than 10 seconds in Scully’s favour. A tight and technical first half of the run course gave Richardson the opportunity to claw back the gap, catching and passing Scully with 3k to go. The fast final finish brought the athletes down to the open parkland of Clarisford Park where Richardson held on for a hard earned win. 14 seconds the final margin. Expect these two to resume rivalry at Hell of the West in a fortnight.

Darren Dunne held on for 3rd, with Ennis Tri’s Gerald Troy running well into 4th ahead of GoTri’s Dave Brew in 5th.

Canal Swim PH

The Ladies race was a humdinger too with a host of Limerick ladies using the event to hone their prep in advance of Hell of the West.

Rachel Clancy won on the day ahead of club mate Lisa Horgan. Becky Coughlan of GoTri interrupted a clean sweep by Limerick by taking a hard fought 3rd ahead of Limerick ladies Aoibhe Reidy and Dee Kearney and Sinead Walsh.

Kearney was first out of the water, but powerful Bike splits of the day from Clancy and Horgan set then up to take top spots on the podium. The race for 3rd was a cracker with Becky “the Bullet” Coughlan scoring fastest run split on a technical run course to take the podium spot ahead of Reidy and Kearney who held on to 5th.

22 Relays took part, giving a host of newbies to triathlon their first taste of big day action. The Lakeside Hotel team took the honours on the day.

A great first triathlon event was put on by the Boru Tri Club and the race around the heritage town is a wonderful addition to the racing calendar. http://www.borutriclub.com/boruman.

John O’Loughlin Ennis Tri Club final sprint

From here, GDANSK IS juSt DowN the roAD. 4 FlIGhtS A weeK to PolAND CorK AIrPort oNly 67 mINuteelS From CloNm Deirdre Kearney Limerick Tri Club

John O’Loughlin Ennis Tri Club final sprint

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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ROSCREA THROUGH THE AGES OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED The much anticipated launch of Roscrea Through the Ages took place recently in Roscrea. The website www.roscreathroughtheages. org is sponsored by Roscrea Credit Union and builds upon the fabulous success of the Roscrea Through The Ages Facebook Page.

The launch night was a fitting tribute to the great work of the organising committee, and the sponsors who are confident that the website will go from strength to strength.

Opening proceedings was Joe Coughlan who together with Joe Moloughney and Sharon Edwards inspired the Facebook page that is now complimented by the fantastic new website.

Joe invited everyone to sit back, relax and enjoy the evening. Joe recalled that Roscrea Through The Ages came about after he wrote a piece in the Roscrea People in 2011 about the executions in Roscrea Castle during the civil war. Joe said that after writing that piece it occurred to him that all these stories should be written down so that they were never forgotten and so that the younger generations in particular could learn from. This inspired Joe to meet with Joe Moloughney and Sharon and the Facebook Page was formed and now has 1400 members.

Some of the stories featured on the facebook page and the website include the runaway train, the life of Daisy Bates who was born in Roscrea, John Moyney who won World War 1 honours in addition to stories about the civil war in Ireland and the famine.

Joe thanked all those who have made contributions to date and said he welcomed all photos and stories with a Roscrea connection.

In December 2013 Joe approached Brian King from Roscrea Credit Union with the idea of setting up a website so that there would a be a more permanent record of these articles for students and locals into the future and that all this would not be lost.

Joe said that Brian was very enthusiastic about this and when he put it to the credit union board they got behind the committee and the project 100%. Brian then introduced Joe to Dick Conroy whose Trojan work and technical experience ensured that the website was set up.

One of the advantages of the website will be that the committee can put extended versions of some of it’s facebook page features on it. Another advantage of the website is that the committee can put up galleries of photos by local people. In particular Joe was grateful for the use of the Billy Delaney Collection which captured so much of Roscrea’s social history from the past. Joe thanked the Delaney family and particularly Billy’s wife Josie who was present for the launch.

Joe then thanked Brian Redmond who has been capturing Roscrea events since the 70’s and he thanked Herbie Moynan and John and Ann-Marie O Meara for their contributions.

Joe had a very special welcome for Kathleen Moloughney who was in attendance to launch the website. Kathleen is a great collector of folk history and traditions of Roscrea and Joe said that he hoped that we can add to and benefit from Kathleen’s wealth of knowledge for many years to come.

and he attended the launch and spoke on the night about he’s connection to Daisy Bates. Others in attendance that would add to the launch night were thanked by Joe and they included Joe Moloughney who would deliver a poem later in the night, Colin Williams and Sinead Brown who would sing, Tom Stapleton who delivered a very emotional talk about his grandfather, Sean Gleeson who sang the Roscrea Rose and Sharon Edwards who told the story of the famine orphans. Joe Himself who would sing an emotional song about one of the orphans called “The Ballad of Theresa Hughes” Joe Coughlan then invited Brian King the Manager of Roscrea Credit Union to address the audience. Brian welcomed everyone once again on behalf of the Credit Union. Brian congratulated the committee including the two Joe’s and Sharon and said that their facebook initiative had certainly built upon some great social media projects unique to Roscrea in recent times all of which have helped lift the profile of the town and instil a sense of pride and passion in us all. Therefore Brian said it would be remiss of him not to compliment the Shanahan family and Sean Hogan all of whom were at the launch for their success to date with their Facebbok Page “Well Kid, I’m from Roscrea”.

Brian King said that the Credit Union was delighted to be involved with this project. As regards the financing of the site, Brian said that the Credit Union like most organisations and businesses were very mindful of costs and while the credit union continues to be supportive of many local clubs, organisations and projects it must do so in a very practical and prudent manner. In this regard Brian said he approached Dick Conroy a Director with Roscrea Credit Union and rather than having to pay a web design company, Dick epitomised the very ethos of the credit union and voluntarism by agreeing to voluntarily give he’s expertise to help put a website together. Brian said that the result is something that web designers across the world would be envious of. Brian thanked Dick who he described as one of many unsung heroes living in our midst in Roscrea. Brian who is also the Chair of the Roscrea Enhancement Plan Committee said that the “Roscrea Through The Ages website” is something the committee fully endorse and that it complements two exciting projects that will be launched by the enhancement committee in the near future.

With a number of prospective local election candidates present, Brian challenged those present to support projects such as “Roscrea Through the Ages”, “the Roscrea Enhancement Plan” and most importantly develop job creation incentives for our town.

As regards the Credit Union, Brian thanked all the credit union members present for their support over the past four years in which their credit union has gone through a lot of change. Brian acknowledges that it has been a very difficult few years for the current board of directors and staff but most of all he said it has been a most difficult time for credit union members and that the credit union fully acknowledges this. Brian spoke about the challenges and changes the credit union has embraced. As the credit union works towards it’s outstanding AGM’s, Brian said it was important to stress once again that the credit union was lending and that no stone would be left unturned to ensure all loans are repaid. In conclusion Brian once again thanked all involved in the Roscrea Through The Ages Project and said that there was an onus on us all and in particular our teachers and local businesses and organisations to show leadership in our community which will help safeguard the future of our town by instilling a sense of pride and passion in our younger generation so that they respect their town and help it grow and prosper. Brian King said that Roscrea Through The Ages is a powerful tool and will help achieve this while leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come to learn and benefit from.

For the remainder of the launch the audience was thrilled with poems, songs, ballads, stories and recollections. The final and most important honour of the evening was left to local historian Kathleen Moloughney who pressed the magic button and declared www.roscreathroughtheages.org officially launched. Dick Conroy and Joe Coughlan then gave an overview of the many aspects of the website before a final presentation was made to both Kathleen and Josie Delaney who was celebrating her birthday that day. Congratulations to all involved in a most memorable Holy Thursday evening.

Joe had a very special welcome for his friend Joe Hargrove and his wife Carol. Joe Hargrove is a grandnephew of Daisy Bates

Corpus Christi Roscrea

Father Corbett leads the procession

Brendan and Sean Keeshan with the local choir

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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ROSCREA YOUTH CENTRE END OF THE YEAR MASS Roscrea Youth Centre End of the year Mass

and have an enjoyable fun summer.

Standing room only at our end of the year Mass in the Roscrea Youth Centre, it was great to see so P.S. We would like to send our heartfelt sorrow to the Family of Jamie Cahill who was a past member of many Parents/Guardians, Neighbours, and Friends. Andrew Walsh on behalf of the Club welcomed our Club. everyone and outlined what would happen on the night. Fr. Lorcan said the team of the Mass was Every R.I.P. YOUNG WOLF CUB Little Helps. Members of the Junior Club and Senior Club brought up candles with the letters on them R.Y.C. First one was R. for Remember, second was Y, for you the people, and the third one was C, for the committee and the community. There were also two more Candles brought to the altar to remember T.J and Steven who we lost in the last year. Fr. Lorcan said in his homily that he had a wedding in Galway a while back, and with all the round-a-bound he got there 10min before the bride, but as he said, better to be 10 min’s early, than 10min’s late. He said he saw a woman coming down the aisle who was well dressed and he thought was in her 70’s, but when he talked to her after she said she was 102, so he asked her would she tell him one thing from her life that he could pass on to the young people of the Club, she said, say their prayers and enjoy their life.Fr. Lorcan said simple words to live your lives by. After the Mass the Prizes which were won throughout the year was given out, Deirdre White called out the Winners and Runner’s-up and Anne Delaney and Mark Rowland our Chairman presented them. Our Press RYC end of year Pictures Courtesy two most prestigious Cups the John Coffey for Table Tennis was won by Sarah O’ Toole, and the Fergus Redmonds of Roscrea, Sponsors RYC Coughlan Cup for Snooker was won by Nicole King.

Mark Rowland our Chairman thanked all who prepared and set up for the Mass, the artwork for the cover of the Mass Booklet was done by Alisha Murphy and Trish Delaney did out the Mass Booklet, he thanked the Musicians, Margaret, Aileen, Veronica and her son Luke. He thanked Michael Tobin who sponsored all our trophies and medals and Brian Redmond for taking the photographs every year and does not charge us, and the press, The Finest for all the coverage throughout the year, he also thanked Paddy and all in FAS, and our hardworking committee and Leaders and Junior Leaders for all the time they give to the Club.

Mark said a special thank you to Imelda Matthews, Mrs Neville, Rosemary Doyle who have helped the club throughout the year, he said we are a Community group who relies on the Community. Lastly to the Junior and Senior members you are the Club, you make the Club, it is your Club, so let’s go forward

Press Roscrea Youth Centre end of year Pictures Courtesy Redmonds of Roscrea, Sponsors RYC

You are cordially invited to join us for our

on Sunday, 27th July 2014 from 2pm - 6pm

View the Hotel as it would be on your Wedding day. Sample an array of food and wine from our Wedding Menus and meet our Head Chef. Mr Tommy Greed.

Our Sales team will be on hand to talk to you about what you dreamed of for your Wedding and discuss the options available to make your Wedding an everlasting memory for you and your guests.

Racket Hall Country House, Dublin Road, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary W: www.rackethallhotel.com E: getintouch@rackethall.ie T: 0505 - 21748 follow us on

Mullally’s Menswear

Lions Club change of office The Lions Club of Roscrea held the 46th Annual Change of Office celebration in the restaurant of Roscrea Golf Club recently where a large turn-out of members were there to enjoy the evening of good wine, food and song and to celebrate the incoming president Paddy Collison and say thanks and farewell to outgoing president Bill Smith. They are pictured here with their wives, Geraldine Smith and Margaret Collison. Find Lions Club Roscrea on Facebook for more pictures.

Photographs courtesy Brian Redmond AIPPA Roscrea.

As wedding season is now upon us it is always best to source your wedding suit hire from a local supplier. It can take time to get all of the measurements and fittings done correctly plus you also want to avoid any mishaps which could spoil the big day. Mullally’s Menswear in Templemore are centrally located at the heart of Tipperary North and offer a professional service for wedding suit hire. Why not drop in and talk to John Mullally about your big day and be sure to bring the best man along with you.

In case you were not already aware, John Mullally is also a professional wedding photographer.

Most men prefer to be practical in making arrangements so why not sort out the wedding suit hire and the wedding photography with John Mullally at Mullally’s Menswear. John can quote for a competitive package to look after all of your arrangements with no stress or hassle which is exactly the way that most men prefer.

One last thing to mention is that Mullally’s Menswear in Templemore would like to remind the business community that their suit sale offers the best value in Tipperary North. Many local business people are not even aware that they can purchase a new suit and submit the receipt to their clothing expenses at their accountants. So stop throwing your money away and make sure that you get the look to win new business at Mullally’s Menswear at the Heart of Tipperary North.

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Irish Rural Link As the summer break approaches, Irish Rural Link reflects on a busy year which raised many new issues to be considered at a national level. Over the past year, Irish Rural Link has continued to represent rural communities at national level on issues such as rural isolation, mental health, social inclusion etc.

Rural Isolation

Rural Isolation rose to prominence when a man in County Clare cycled some thirty miles to check himself into a nursing home. His action sparked a debate on the closure of Garda stations and the general fears people like him have in terms of security in their own home. It may have something to do with the Garda station closures. It may have something to do with the scattered settlement patterns in rural areas. It may also have something to do with our youth leaving rural areas. And there may be lots of other factors at play.

Rural isolation has bleakness about it. It describes the reality of many, mainly older people who live alone and may not come into contact with people for days or even weeks. It also points to a scarcity of services caused by the withdrawal of Post Office branches, rural schools, police stations, pubs and so on.

In light of the increased reduction in public services, Irish Rural Link in partnership with the European Parliament Information Office took the decision to organise two seminars to explore possible solutions from a local level. The seminars were held in Ennis, Co Clare and Ballybofey, Co Donegal. The seminars were largely attended by both the public and organisations. The seminars yielded some interesting ideas that are explored in greater detail in a report that can be found on our website.

Community Wetlands Forum In early 2014, the Community Wetlands Forum was formed under the umbrella of Irish Rural Link. The aim of the forum is to bring like minded groups together to share experiences and ideas in order for them to development and sustain themselves in the future. The network is in its early stages and new members are welcome. The next meeting is being held in Abbeyleix bog centre on the 28th of August with a presentation from Ecotourism Ireland. If you would like to attend or receive more information about the group, please contact Irish Rural Link.

Farm Safety The past year has seen a sharp increase in the number of deaths and injuries on Irish farms. This emphasizes the need for our farm safety campaign ‘Farmers inspiring Farmers’, (the campaign involved in the release of our DVD entitled “Slurry Gas, The Invisible Silent Killer on Irish Farms”) to educate farmers on the risks of slurry gas.

The Irish Rural Link Farm Safety Mentor Programme provides a new and innovative approach in the communication of the Farm Safety message engaging farmers to become change makers, supporting safer farms and the development of farm to farm advice and mentoring systems.

The aim of the programme is to empower farmers themselves to assist with a change in perception and habits regarding farm safety. Farmers in counties Meath, Westmeath, Longford and Cavan were participants in the pilot programme. It is envisaged that the farmer mentors will inform and educate other farmers on how to improve safety and change the safety culture in farming.

Annual Conference and Awards Irish Rural Link hosted their annual conference with this year’s focus on access to education and training. The speakers for the conference were Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh, Prof. Ciarán Ó Catháin - President Athlone IT, Alice McDonnell- C&M Training, Dr. Maura Farrell- NUIG, Dr. Bryan Fields- SOLAS and members from Czech Republic rural schools.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16 An issue in rural areas is access to education; some rural residents just simply don’t have the means to access education and training. A large proportion of education courses take place in large towns and cities, due to a lack of public transport these courses cannot be accessed.

As part of their annual conference, Irish Rural Link announced the winners of its 9th annual rural awards to celebrate the work of community and voluntary organisations throughout the country. The awards were formally presented to representatives of the winning organisations by Míchael Ó Muircheartaigh.

This year’s category 1 award (groups with one paid employee) went to New Future Farming Group in Co Tipperary for their role in providing knowledge and support to their members in the ever changing agriculture industry. They also act as a social outlet for their members who are employed in a now considered isolated occupation. The group provides a range of training programmes specifically designed for farmers as well as hosting seminars around the social needs of its member such as isolation.

The category 2 award (groups with more than one paid employee) went to South West Mayo Development Company, for its work in sustaining rural communities in south and west Mayo. In hashing economic times, SWMDC has continued to provide a quality service to groups and individuals in South and West Mayo.

2014/2015 The planning for 2014/15 is well under way with IRL’s budget submission already submitted. Following on from the annual conference, the focus of the submission is on rural education, in particular the future of rural primary schools. An issue high on the public agenda is suicide prevention; suicide levels in the past few years have reached new levels. Even one death by suicide is too much. To help address this issue, Irish Rural Link has made a submission to the National Office of Suicide Prevention on a new national framework which aims to address the factors specific to rural areas. A focus for the upcoming year will be the continued decline of rural towns and villages. With the help of their members, Irish Rural Link aims to create possible solutions to stop the rot in a campaign called “Shout Stop”. The process will involve extensive consultation with our members and community organisations that are working on the ground level.

The coming year is a time of uncertainty for rural areas with the introduction of the new Rural Development Programme and local development reforms but what remains certain is that Irish Rural Link will continue to represent rural communities especially the most marginalised residents at a national and European level.

-Photo CaptionsPhoto 01: L-R MEP Phil Prendergast, Seamus Boland CEO Irish Rural Link, Míchael Ó Muircheartaigh guest speaker, Mary Nally Third Age. Photo 02: Michael Biggins Chair accepting the award on behalf of South West Mayo Development Company from Míchael Ó Muircheartaigh and Irish Rural Link’s Chairman Billy Murphy Photo 03: Front: L-R Michael Biggins, Chair, SWMDC; Maria McHale, Community Worker, SWMDC; Catherine Guest, New Futures, Tipperary; George Langley, New Futures, Tipperary | Back: L-R Seamus Boland, CEO, Irish Rural Link; Billy Murphy, Chair, Irish Rural Link; Gerry O’Neill, CEO, SWMDC

What’s in the Cards?

July 14, 2014 to Aug 14, 2014

This Month’s cards, for the middle of July and going into August, are largely positive; but it may be a rather dicey time weather wise. As I am writing here at the Summer Solstice in mid-June, The Midlands is having a lovely heat-wave and everyone is spending as much time outdoors as possible.

However, sad to say we may have some rain or unseasonably cool weather on the way for late July and early August because we have “The Liar” Card next to the “Now” card. Now the Liar just means that something may be false or misrepresented; and on the Now Card we have the lovely picture of a farmer harvesting his crops in full sunlight. For this reason, I get the image of “false-Summer” or perhaps a slight delay in harvesting weather.

The next card is so positive in the other direction however that I can’t imagine that it will be a serious delay, but on the other hand everyone will want to enjoy every opportunity that they can for both outdoor recreation and garden/farm work while the weather is good; because it may be a rather mixed situation as we move towards the Fall.

The next card is the Libido, which is both about romance and just that general feeling of life force, growing things and a lust for life. High Sumer is a great time for relationships and this may be the month if you are looking for someone new or spending some special time with your Partner.

The Birth and Home cards complete The Reading for this time period, Birth is the natural result of the life-forces of the Libido card; but in a High Sumer reading it is more about the Birth of new activities, ideas and situations than the new life that is born every Springtime. So this is a great time for planning fall events, opening a business or getting ready for a new educational adventure.

The great news is that both these cards make the energies towards forming new and lasting relationships even stronger, as well as a the perfect time for the already happily partnered to work on new projects that improve their physical and spiritual home life.

This time period may also see the birth of a new cycle in the property market and it feels like a positive one, so that is one more thing to look forward to during this late Sumer time period.

As shown in the previous What’s in the Card’s readings; this is a year when focusing on things closer to home, rather than taking far-away or exotic vacations is probably the best use of time, money and effort. Those who do travel, will are still likely to have a good time; but may want to plan a few days at home after their break, if at all possible, before returning directly to work or education.

The basic message for this summer seems to be: Home really is where your heart will be the happiest.

That’s all for now, I hope everyone has a great month, back next time with hints on what is coming for the Fall Season -Melodi If you would like to contact Melodi, just call 085 7297069 or e-mail MelodiReader@gmail.com

14

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Sharon Tuckers

Style Secrets

Hi, and welcome to my style column, Each issue I will be sharing exciting new fashion ideas, news, events and to give you some tips I have learned along the way. I will also be sharing some gems of local businesses in the fashion and beauty industry.

I think we will all agree that style and value for money is what we look for when we go shopping.

But being a plus size myself I find it hard to find stores that stock my size, so I was delighted to find a little gem that ticks all these boxes “Lady Penelope”. Lady Penelope Fashion House can be discovered on the banks of Lough Derg in Ballina Co Tipperary. Its Flagship store can be found nestled in the pretty towns of Ballina/Killaloe just off the M7 motorway at Exit 27. Its second store can be located in the picturesque village of Adare, Co. Limerick. A vast range of Evening wear, Occasion wear, Casuals and Smart business wear is what Lady Penelope represents and in all sizes thankfully!

Owner Michele Reynolds and her trained staff at hand to help you with whatever requirements you have. A visit is highly recommended. See pics.

Style -My style is about simplicity, elegance and dressing for my shape, accentuating my best assets, and not being a slave to the latest trends. Co-coordinating what clothes you have and organising your wardrobe is the first step. Keeping you overall look simple, but, if you want to dress it up with colour, use accessories ie; jewellery, handbags, shoes or a simple scarf will transform the most understated outfit. Tip ; Don’t over load on accessories, we want to look vibrant and colourful, not like a Christmas tree.

Hair-Everyone loves that “just stepped out of a salon look”, shiny, bouncy and you feel like a million dollars or euros. But, you must also maintain your tresses at home; I suggest a weekly hair treatment, leave in for an hour or overnight wrapped in a warm towel, then wash off and style.

LOREAL stocks a fantastic range of hair products, which can be found in most supermarkets and

chemists. Always ask your local hairdresser’s advice; it pays to ask an expert regarding colour, style and condition.

Beauty-The biggest beauty tip I can give to you is to drink at least 2 litres of water a day, sleep well and always remove your make up before bed. In all weather year round wear moisturiser with SPF’s that protect against the suns harmful rays, than can be lead to sun damage and aging wrinkled skin, who wants to look like an old leather coat? Your local chemist will help choose one that is right for you. I use one that has a tint in it for day time. I would also recommend a daily Vitamin capsule called “Well Woman” available in all good chemists which are all-round nutritional support including vitamins B6 and B12 which contribute to normal energy release. Folate, pantothenic acid and vitamin B12 also contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. They also contain Evening Primrose and Starflower Oils. Been a busy working mom I have so much energy since I began these one capsule a day vitamins. There are also “Well Man” vitamins available too.

So remember keep your style simple, accessories well, get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, take some vitamins, exercise and above all wear a smile, it’s free and it’s the best curve on any woman’s body. If you would like some more tips, news and events, or questions you may have you can find me on www.facebook.com/Sharontuckersstylesecrets. Until next time, enjoy the sunshine.

Coming back

to reality

Flynn slim jean

Leroy hudson jean bright blue

Surf Tee in grape

Wayward Tee in Flame Red

Over the last decade there has been a huge upturn in online purchases of clothing, books, DVD’s and pretty much everything else. The virtual shopping market became the place to go if you were looking for a bargain. In more recent times consumers have started to re-think their online purchases and have started to return back to reality when shopping for clothes. The simple reason behind it is that most people want to try on the garment before they buy it to see if it fits. It saves the hassle of having to go online, find a returns department, go and pay out more money again for shipping and rolling the dice to see if the returned garment will actually fit comfortably when it arrives back. As more retailers have moved online the supposed big savings have also disappeared with many sites charging high street prices without offering high street locations to shop in.

The Internet doesn’t offer consumers a space to try things on and this is the silver lining for many small clothing retailers who have seen their customers return to them, weary and jaded from shopping online.

Let’s face it, it can be quite tedious trawling through a website and looking at a flat image of an item of clothing, even the best computer screen will not give you a clear idea of what the garment looks like or feels like in the cold light of day.

Culture is run by Ken Kennedy on Roscrea Main Street and offers the latest in fashions for men and women. Culture stocks the big brand names such as Diesel and Eto. Here is the clever bit, if a customer actually wants to buy an item that they have seen online from any of the brand ranges stocked by Culture they can call in and place a deposit on the item and it can be shipped in especially for them provided the item is in stock.

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CORVILLE NATIONAL SCHOOL STUDENT WINS SCHOLARSHIP TO CLONGOWES WOOD COLLEGE

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

Templemore College Launches its New Hairdressing Salon As the centrepiece of Launch Pad 2014 on the evening of May 29thlast, International Hairstylist Kieran O’Gorman officially opened the new Hairdressing Salon in Templemore College.

In his address Mr O’Gorman remarked that the new hairdressing salon was the ‘highest standard education facility for hairdressing in the country’. He pointed to the long tradition in the College for the highest quality facilities, however this new facility may even surpass this standard.

He concluded by wishing the College well with the new facility and promised to return on a regular basis.

Principal of the College Dr Noel Colleran thanked Kieran for his on-going support to the Hairdressing Department in the College. He added ‘this new development is evidence of the commitment of the College to provide facilities of the highest standard in all our courses’. He concluded ‘while our hairdressing courses are full for the coming year there are other courses in the College with places still available’.

Local student Taylor Bergin from Brophy Terrace Roscrea is the apple of his mother’s eye after winning a scholarship to Clongowes Wood College in Clane Co. Kildare.

Taylor achieved his scholarship through his academic achievement in Corville National School.

The application was originally made by John Slattery Principle of Corville National School based on the high grades that Taylor had achieved since October 2013. The Bergin family travelled to Clongowes Wood College with John Slattery in January 2014 for an initial introductory visit, the return visit came from the Deputy Headmaster of Clongowes Wood College Mr Martin Taylor who came to Roscrea to meet Taylor in the family home. Taylor who’s favourite subject is maths had to submit all of his school reports at which point a formal offer was made for Taylor to apply to Clogowes Wood College. Taylor will join Clongowes Wood College first years in Kildare on August 26th.

Well done Taylor!

NEW TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES AT TEMPLEMORE COLLEGE

Left to right: Principal Dr. Noel Colleran, Deputy Principal Micheal Lenihan, Teacher Anne Collins, Teacher Deirdre Allen, Internationally renowned hair stylist Kieran O’Gorman, Teacher Veronica Hogan, Hairdressing Course Co-Ordinator Geraldine Egan, Teacher Patricia Prout

View of the New State of the Art Hair Salon at Templemore College of Further Education

TEMPLEMORE COLLEGE: EXPANDING HORIZONS

Templemore College has, for many years now, successfully prepared large numbers of students to undertake work experience placements abroad. This year 15 of our graduate students are traveling to Spain and France for three-weeks in June to gain valuable work experience in their chosen careers.

Conscious of increasing globalisation of all industry sectors, the college has for many years been an accredited centre for the EU Leonardo Da Vinci Programme. This EU-funded programme aims to increase the employability and language skills of European students by exchanging good practices regarding the vocational training and learning needs across all industry sectors.

For well over a decade Templemore College’s Tourism/Business Department has successfully

prepared large numbers of students to work as airline cabin crew, travel consultants, tour guides, holiday representatives and front-of-house jobs within the tourism industry.

Conscious of the increasing globalisation of the tourism industry and that two in every three of Ireland’s visitors go to a heritage site or visitor attraction during their stay, the College has now introduced a new Irish Cultural and Heritage resources module to supplement the existing business and tourism components.

Further good news for prospective students is that Templemore College is an accredited centre for the EU Leonardo Da Vinci Programme, which is aimed at increasing employability and language skills by exchanging good practices between educational institutions for those working in internationally competitive environments. The result is that the college’s students now have an opportunity for all expenses paid work placements abroad each June, with a choice of going to either France or Spain.

Welcoming the new Heritage Studies module, College Principal, Dr Noel Colleran said, “More than 3 out of 5 overseas holidaymakers point to Ireland’s history and culture as a crucially important factor in their choice to come here. This provides a huge opportunity for educated heritage practitioners with up-to-date skills. At Templemore College we provide employment specific education equipping each student with the suite of skills necessary to find employment in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Taking annual holidays and short breaks has now become an imbedded part of our culture.

This means there are ever increasing, job-specific demands from employers within the tourism industry, but only for those with appropriate hospitality and business skills.” said Dr Colleran.

So, if you are a school leaver or mature student interested in working in a challenging industry offering worldwide employment options, then Templemore College provides such an opportunity with one year, fulltime courses in both tourism and business beginning in Sept 2014. Full details are available by telephoning 0504-31007, visiting www.tcfe.ie or emailing info@tcfe.ie.

As they prepare to go to Spain and France on work placement - Back row: Annette Strachan (Complementary Therapy teacher), Simon Buckley (Horticulture student), Jack Henchion (Tourism student), Siobhán Keating (French Teacher) Middle row: Bethan Hiscock, (Hairdressing student), Aoife King (Complementary Therapy student), Joanna Lozinska, Clare Henderson (Beauty Therapy students), Claire Ryan (Childcare student), Claire Bentley (Creative Media student) Front row: Tracie Devanney (Sports Injury student), Sarah Corcoran , (Hairdressing) Nicola Keeshan (Childcare student), and Pilar Molina Sanchez (Spanish Teacher). Missing from photo Eoin Wolahan (Horticulture), Michaela O’Shea (Hairdressing), Ann-Marie Kavanagh (Beauty Therapy), and Willie Barry (Sports and Recreation)

And the good news for the future is that Templemore College is hopeful of receiving continued funding under the new Erasmus Plus programme, to send more of its students to work overseas in the coming year.

So, if you are a school leaver or mature student interested in working in a challenging industry offering worldwide employment options then Templemore College provides such opportunities. We offer fulltime one-year courses in a wide variety of industry sectors, from IT and Networks, Social Studies, Business, Security, Legal Studies, Childcare, to Media Studies, and many more, beginning in September 2014. Full details are available by phoning 0504-31007 or online at www.tcfe.ie

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Roscrea Credit Union News: Roscrea Credit Union Quarterly Cash Draw

reviewing the information submitted by the candidate and by interviewing the candidate.

The much anticipated Roscrea Credit Union Cash Draw took place recently.

For more information please send an email with your name, address and some background information to volunteers@roscreacu.ie

The overall winner of the grand prize of €10,000.00 was Mary O’Carroll who had plenty of wellwishers and family support on the night. Other winners included Kathleen Liffey (€4000.00), Edel O’Hara (€3000.00), Jamie Baggott (€2000.00), Kathleen Fitzgerald (€1500.00), Fergus Farrelly (€1000.00), Renie Hewson (€1000.00), Siobhan Dwyer (€1000.00), Liam Grant (€1000.00), Mary Dunne (€1000.00).

M.C for the evening was the Manager of Roscrea Credit Union, Brian King. Brian King thanked all those in attendance for their support of the draw and their support of their local credit union.

Brian King thanked Marie Carroll, Mary Crean, and Rosaleen Ryan in particular for all their help.

Also thanked was the Chairman of the Credit Union, Patsy Treacy who makes time for each draw and local photographer P.J Wright who also attends each draw. Brian King encouraged the winners to if at all possible shop local with their winnings. Brian King said that Roscrea is very dependent upon local retailers for creating and maintaining employment in the town so it was vital that where possible “we support local and that we shop local”.

Roscrea Walking Festival Roscrea Credit Union was delighted to be one of the sponsors of the Roscrea and Heritage walking festival which took place last weekend. We would like to thank all who participated particularly those who sampled the delights of Roscrea for the first time and we would like to congratulate lead co-ordinator Cathal McNicholas in particular for all his work.

Roscrea Through the Ages As many members will already know the credit union was very much involved in the launch of the fantastic website Roscrea Through the Ages. The website continues to grow and we would encourage everyone to check it out for themselves atwww.roscreathroughtheages.org

The Credit Union Cash Draw is non-profit and all eligible members are invited to join. The next draw will take place in March. Call into the credit union or check out www.roscreacu.ie for details on how to join.

Mary O’Carroll was the big winner in the recent Roscrea Credit Union Qualrtely Cash Draw. Mary is pictured here with fellow winners and representatives from the credit union.

New Volunteers: The Board of Roscrea Credit Union through its Nominations Committee is seeking members who want to make a difference in their credit union by serving on one of their numerous committees.

In particular the credit union is looking for people skilled in the following areas: - Information Technology, Finance, Legal, Auditing, Marketing, Youth Promotion, Approving Credit and Credit Collection skills.

The Credit Union will select nominees from the pool of members who have submitted the appropriate forms which will be allocated to those interested and who can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Committee, good character, fiscal responsibility, a commitment to serve as a volunteer in the best interests of their fellow credit union members, and the willingness and ability to fulfill the responsibilities of a volunteer.

Nominees must be members in good standing with the credit union. The Nominations Committee will then conduct its due diligence and determine a candidate’s suitability for nomination by

North West Number: 0892119705 (This number is for OUTGOING messages only and does not receive calls, to report please contact us through facebook or contact a committee member listed in this article) Forming the committee This year, over the bridge in Roscrea has come together to create a combined response to the safety issues in our area through a text alert service.

The areas of Copperbeech, Railway View, Gleann Glas and Assumption Park have created the local area text alert group which will work with An Garda Siochana to create both a community and Gardai response to safety issues in our locality.

Early this year a member of An Garda Siochana contacted residents in the area that would be able to work together to create a community response as part of An Garda Siochana’s local community response to the low Garda numbers and rising crime rates in our locality.

Fran Dunne, the Garda in question, contacted representatives from Gleann Glas who had already organised their own response; Gleann Glas have been a hugely active residents group and had worked with Assumption Park and Copperbeach before Officer Dunne made contact which made cooperation on the text alert a simple proposition. Officer Dunne had then contacted Railway View who had passed him onto Assumption Park .

The areas came together with the active officer, who deserves huge credit for his effort and interest in the local community, to create the group and elected a committee and officers.

The Committee Elected where: Position Name Chairman Eamonn “Nivard” Coonan Treasurer PJ Wright

Secretary Mike Edwards PRO Stephen Glynn

Pictured at the launch of the first Roscrea Heritage and Walking Festival are members of Roscrea Credit Union and Tesco who are sponsors of the event, together with Cathal McNicholas the co-ordinator.

L/R Cathal McNicholas (Event Co-Ordinator), Tracy Hynes (Youth Officer, RCU), Louis Cooley (Director, RCU), Brian King (Manager, RCU), Mairead Ramsbottom (Tesco), Dick Conroy (Director RCU), Liam Phelan (Vice Chairman, RCU)

Also please check that elderly neighbours are ok and have plenty of fluid during the high temperatures .

These alerts have kept the area informed and to date have helped An Garda Siochana in a report of illegal money being collected. The hope is that as the group progresses more information and warnings will be sent out and also community notices will be supported.

Thanks The group wishes to thank Officer Fran Dunne for all his support, Tesco Roscrea for their huge support and sponsorship of a community mobile phone and all the residents for supporting a much needed initiative!

Your Own Group If you wish to start your own group please feel free to contact any member of our Stephen Glynn with Tipp Fm’s Liam Dumpelton group and we would be delighted to help and work with you.

Alternatively, Shane Lee has been supporting groups locally and is contactable on 086 3296667. Or please Contact An Garda Siochana.

Best Wishes The group wishes to send out our best wishes to the newly formed Kennedy Park text alert service and a well done to Pauline Simmons and Shane Lee for their work!

Gleann Glas a community update

Contact Number 0877495777 0876268844 0879841033 0879028860

What the Text Alert does The Text Alert System is quite simple: When a resident witnesses something suspicious or has a suspicious caller, they contact a member of the committee who then assesses the report and a text goes out to all on the text alert list and An Gardai Siochana receive the report and decide if they need to take immediate action.

When a resident witnesses a crime in place, they immediately contact An Garda Siochana.

Also, the North West Text Alert group will update the Facebook page with reports and information, regularly.

The Roscrea North West Text Alert group also intend to use the service to keep the residents informed on best practices for safety and information on what’s happening in the locality, this is hoped to bring the area closer together which will provide a stronger community and safer area.

So Far the group has put out several warnings and tips, such as: Anyone calling about water meters must have Identification.

Anyone asking for access to your home must make an appointment.

The number for Irish Water is 1890278278.

A bogus caller has been around Thurles in the last few days.

If you are unsure of a caller or their identification call the Gardai immediately.

Once again we would have to remind people, anyone calling to your door selling for charities must have a licence and identification.

Never allow someone into your home unless you are sure you know them or you can check with the Gardai that they are genuine.

If someone calls to your door selling for charity or collecting check with Roscrea Garda station to see if they are licenced 0505 24230 or 999 /112 Please keep an eye out for vulnerable neighbours.

Please keep an eye out for vulnerable neighbours, an individual is calling to people and putting pressure on them for shed painting and general work, not everyone is strong enough to say no under pressure so we must stand with them.

With the weather to be so hot and the sun so strong it is important to have sunscreen on for children and adults.

Ensure plenty of fluid for children.

Pets need a lot of water and shade.

Since Easter Gleann Glas has been a busy community, we have commenced our summer campaign of estate upgrades and cleaning.

After our Easter egg hunt the children agreed that litter picking would begin on Saturdays with the day changing during the summer due to the holidays.

Litter picking has become a community event at which the adults get a chance to hear what it is the children of the estate what and need from us, this has led to the children making the decision’s on the rotation of the goal posts to ensure each and every child gets fair access to them.

The community gardens have taken shape with once again the children leading the way on planting, every child not only got a flower to plant but also ensured that they are maintained and that each area of Gleann Glas got something of colour and variety.

The gardens will be an ongoing project with some children and parent supplying shrubs and flowers for their own particular area of the estate, this has given the children a great sense of ownership.

Joe has built our first rockery and he keeps it looking bright and cheerful with flowers, the next project is our very own Marian Shrine.

This will provide a vocal point not just for our residents but visitors also, this area of our estate is becoming very important to all with not just a playground for children, but rest and relaxation areas for adults while their children play.

Finally we have now prepared the walls for our first community mural which the children from a local school’s 6th Class will paint.

Our community will continue over the summer months to enhance our living areas and encourage all to visit our small but active community to see for themselves what can be done with a little co-operation.

We look forward to the months ahead.

Mike Edwards

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

PAT HICKEY WALL & FLOOR SPECIALISTS The One Stop Shop for Your Home Renovations!!

With the 2014 Budget Incentive you can make plenty of improvements to your home so you can clear out the old & make way for the new…

Pat Hickey Wall & Floor Specialists can create the bathroom you’ve only ever dreamed of! Colour is no obstacle, and neither is sourcing the choice of visuals you’d like to have on your bathroom walls. We can also design a new layout to obtain the most space possible & create useful storage areas in wasted spaces!!!

Does your bathroom have that typical void at the end of the bath which is nothing more than a dust collector?! Is it that, the same said space appears to be too small to do anything worthwhile with? Well guess what…..we have a solution to enhance the imaginative aspects of your bathroom – Recessed Shelving!! The recessed shelves will prove extremely useful for tidying away your shampoos, and bubbles bath essentials not to mention having your towel at hand! We use waterproof products such as aqua boards to construct your shelving design which ensure that damp conditions are prevented at all times therefore no leaks or smell!!!!

Pat Hickey Wall & Floor Specialists have a selection of wood effect tiles in stock especially for those of you who would prefer a floor board effect to contrast against your tiled walls. Whether it be white, grey, black, oak, or walnut we can meet your requirements!

Always dreaming of the wet floor to maximise your floor space Are you considering replacing your bath or shower tray for a walk in wetroom to achieve a more spacious bathroom??? If so there are a few points you must consider which will accomplish the most effective watertight walk in shower. For those shower enclosures that consist of studded walls, we strongly recommend that cement boards slabs are fitted for the best results.

Wetroom showers are not limited to downstairs only by the way! You can have your wetroom installed even if your ensuite is upstairs provided that you use the correct shower board in the base.

The use of quality materials together with professional workmanship are essential components for successful wetroom shower installations. Remember! You must seal your walls and make them watertight prior to tiling because as you know water travels and travels and continues to travel for as long as a piece of string!!! It is crucial that all junctions where wall meets wall and where wall meets floor within the shower enclosure are taped with flexible tanking sealing mesh.

An acrylic primer must be applied to the cement board and shower base previous to the two coats of tanking paint being applied to the walls. If the tanking system is omitted from your bathroom transformation the importance of containing the running water to the gully becomes a major problem. Water will leak out between the joints and it will

travel! A water leak will penetrate up the walls behind your tiles and down through the floor to the ceiling underneath. It does not take long for the effects of the leak to result in tiles loosening and falling away from the saturated slabs in the shower enclosure. It is assumed by many that installing a wetroom shower downstairs does not require a tanking system, WRONG!!

As mentioned above water will travel anywhere and everywhere when it’s not controlled by the tanking system process. So if you want a watertight wetroom and your tiles to remain in tacked you need to have your tanking system installed previous to any tiling works being carried out.

We have a selection tailored to meet everyone’s own budgetary needs, not to mention the additional special offers in store! Our stocks are imported directly from factories in Spain, France and Italy. We can guarantee the very lowest prices without ever needing to compromise on quality!

Our Wood Flooring Selection is second to none!!! Are you looking for a solid or engineered wood flooring we have them all, we also specialise is an engineered wood flooring that gives you at least 50% less maintenance, and by that we mean instead of re-sanding your floor after 8-12years as normal you will have no need to re-sand for 12-15years. Remember! Engineered flooring is a must for all of you that have under floor heating. Remember engineered flooring is the only wood flooring suitable for the changes in room temperature because the multilayer of plywood under the 5mm wear layer of the engineered board contracts and expands accordingly while the top layer remains in-situ! It is also recommend to use an underlay suitable to your under floor heating needs, to ensure that the heat transmission is not compromised in an way. All floors must be level prior to fitting any wood flooring! It is also essential that a moisture test is carried out prior to installation. Newly poured concrete can take up to 18months to fully cure so be mindful of your new house extension.

We pride ourselves in our selection of laminated wood flooring! We understand that many customers have had a disappointing experience with certain laminate flooring brands that are available, mainly because they are inferior products which at the time of purchase would have been favourable because of the price. At the end of the day you get what you pay for and one rule we will never change at Pat Hickey Wall & Floor Specialists is our ability to stock the very best quality of laminate flooring. Your wooden floors won’t be complete until you have the matching profiles fitted between floors, at door opes to transcend different floor heights and around fireplaces, we have a selection of such profiles at hand in store.

Pat Hickey Wall & Floor Specialists are your local agents for PERGO Flooring. Don’t forget it is essential to hire a professional tiler and a qualified wooden floor fitter who will ensure that your desired results are accomplished! Pat Hickey Wall and Floor Specialists is your local stockist of a variety of quality Polish Porcelain, Ceramic, and Marble wall & floor tiles. We also stock easy to maintain mosaic tiles with their matching floor tiles all of which meet Health Board Non-Slip Safety Regulations.

Contact your local branch for further information: Evelyn Brereton Thurles 0504 28601 Seamus Ryan Murroe 063 31698 | Mike Kett Kilmallock 061 386523

Hey Pesto Chocolate Cake I really should have introduced myself properly in the last issue - I’m Yvonne and I run a boutique catering company, Hey Pesto! I also run cookery classes in Tullamore and you can catch up on more of my ramblings and details on www. heypesto.ie I’m totally mad about all things food and was delighted when James asked me to be a regular contributor to ‘The Finest’.

I hope you liked my barbeque recipes in the last issue and if you have any questions on any of my posts you can contact me on yvonne@heypesto.ie.

This month is all about sweet things as I’m working on ideas for my next cooking with chocolate class and let’s face it who doesn’t like chocolate?

This gorgeous cake is based on a Nigella recipe which I’ve topped with lovely orange and almond chocolate to turn it into a rather large Jaffa cake…..

Chocolate & Orange Cake What you need: - 5 clementines - 6 eggs - 225g /8oz caster sugar - 250g/9 oz ground almonds - 1 heaped tsp baking powder - 2 bars of Butlers Orange and Almond Chocolate What you do: - Firstly you need to prepare the clementines by simmering in saucepan of water for 2 hours. Make sure to check the pot occasionally as you don’t want them to boil dry. Then drain and allow to cool

- Once they’ve cooled cut each clementine in half, remove any pips and then whizz them (yes, skins and all!) in a food processor.

- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C) or Gas 4 - Line the base of 22 cm spring-form tin with baking parchment and butter the sides - Whisk the eggs in a large bowl.

- Mix the dry ingredients – sugar, almonds and baking powder together in another bowl, then add in to the beaten eggs and mix well.

- Finally stir in the puréed clementines - Pour mix into the lined tin and bake in preheated oven for about 50 mins or until skewer comes out clean.

- Allow cake to cool in tin for about 10 mins before transferring to a wire rack - To finish, melt the chocolate bars and spread quickly over the top and sides of the cake.

The great thing about this recipe is that there is no flour involved so it’s suitable for coeliacs - just make sure you use gluten free baking powder.

This cake is perfect to serve as part of Afternoon Tea – take out your pretty china cups and plates, put a crisp white tablecloth on your patio table (weather permitting!) and turn it into an occasion.

This cake also works as a summer dessert served with a dollop of crème fraiche. Just be assured that however you serve it, it won’t last long My next ‘Cooking with Chocolate’ Class is on Saturday 5th July at 10am. If you’d like to attend please contact me on 087 2488124 or yvonne@heypesto.ie

Happy Cooking!

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Canadian Woman Finds Her Roots in Tipperary: Book Launch Sunday 6 July Sheelagh na Gig bookshop invites everyone to attend the launch of Going Home: Tipperary Roots by Canadian Judith A Colbert on Sunday, 5 July at 8pm in the Thomas MacDonagh Heritage Centre in Cloughjordan.

In Canada, settlers from Tipperary played a major role in the formation of London Township in southwestern Ontario. As a descendant of a Tipperary family, Judith A. Colbert set out to learn more about her Irish roots and their influence on her own life and community. She tells her story in her new book, Going Home: Tipperary Roots, a journey ‘home’ that explores links between Canada and Ireland.

Colbert was born in London Township and has always known of the connection between the township and Ireland. ‘As I looked into the history of my family and pieced together a family tree, I realized that it led back to Tipperary’, says Colbert. ‘I visited the archives at Western University in London, Ontario, and found letters written in the 1940s from folks in Cloughjordan to my father’s cousin here in Ontario indicating where the Colberts had lived, and my curiosity was aroused.

Maybe because of the war, I don’t think our cousin ever visited. Since I was planning a trip to Ireland, I decided to see what I could find’.

Colbert knew that her great-great-grandfather, Thomas Colbert, and his wife Catherine (Kitty) Mooney, had left their home near the village of Cloughjordan in Tipperary and set sail for Canada in 1830. She also knew that Thomas has been accompanied by six sisters who, before or after migration, married into other Irish families – Rebecca Shoebottom, Sarah Hodgins, Margaret Armitage, Ann Fitzgerald, Elizabeth Rawlins and Susan (possibly Crowley). Thomas and Kitty went directly to LondonTownship and settled on lands whose distribution on behalf of the Crown was under the control of another Irishman, Colonel Thomas Talbot. Still, it was a full 17 years after their arrival in southwestern Ontario before they were finally granted ownership of a fertile, 100-acre tract of land at the intersection of what is now Highbury Avenue and Nine Mile Road just outside London, in a community now known as Middlesex Centre.

Armed with information from her research, Colbert arrived in the town of Nenagh in early June 2009 with a photocopy of the early letter, her curiosity and little else. ‘Even now, when I think about my visit, I think what happened was something of a miracle’, says Colbert. ‘Certainly, I would have been lost without the help of the people I met in the area, including Deirdre Lyddy, Joan O’Meara, Gordon Williams and the late Roche Williams. They helped me make sense of the letter and led me to the village of Cloughjordan and then on to the end of a long lane where they assured me, I was standing on the Colbert fields’.

The Pink Pepper Tree From best-selling author, Muriel Bolger, comes another captivating summer read.

When June Cusack refused to go to her husband’s funeral people began asking questions. But she kept her reasons to herself.

She had others secrets too.

From the world of the pink pepper trees in Alentejo in Portugal to the vineyards of Stellenbosch, South Africa, June’s career flourishes, while her private life disintegrates.

After a holiday with her lifetime friend, Danielle, while her partner’s Peter’s restaurant is being renovated, her life spins off its axis. A sinister event in Monte Carlo and a spiky-haired Dublin architect change it all.

The older and sophisticated Lorcan Overend offers an alternative for June, while Peter finds himself uncomfortably at the centre of the gossip columns.

THE BLACK EYED BLONDE: BENJAMIN BLACK REVIEW BY DAVID O’CONNELL From the very first page of this highly entertaining story it’s clear that Benjamin Black (the pseudonym that John Banville uses for his crime fiction) has managed to capture the voice of Raymond Chandler’s world weary PI Philip Marlowe. If you didn’t know better you might almost be fooled into thinking that someone had discovered a forgotten manuscript that Chandler had hidden away. That’s not to say that this novel will appeal to Chandler fans only but it also works as a standalone top notch noir.

In addition to recounting the events of that June morning, Going Home: Tipperary Roots includes information about bothLondon Township and Tipperary, past and present, along with personal reflections on the ties that still bind Canada andIreland. ‘What I noticed, first of all, was a shared community spirit’, says Colbert. ‘I was made to feel entirely at home in Irelandfrom the moment my plane touched down in Dublin to the day of my departure’.

Going Home: Tipperary Roots reflects that spirit. Colbert’s words are interspersed with her own photographs of Nenagh and Cloughjordan and others by Mary Devine, her hostess at Williamsferry House, and Peter Baker of Cloughjordan House. It is a publication that will appeal to the wanderer, traveller and historian in all of us. It is Judith Colbert’s tribute to her past and to the strong, hard-working men and women who ensured that once transplanted, her family’s roots would flourish.

Going Home: Tipperary Roots by Judith A. Colbert ISBN: 9780986746338

The novel opens in the sizzling heat of the LA summer “There are days in high summer when the sun works on you like a gorilla peeling a banana”. Business is slow and our hero is watching the world pass by from his office window. Enter the sultry ‘Black Eyed Blonde’ of the title, Mrs Clare Cavendish, heiress to a perfume fortune. Marlowe notices the eyes straight away: “A blonde with black eyes -- that’s not a combination you get very often.” She hires Marlowe to find her former lover Nico Peterson. Marlowe sets out on his search and discovers that Peterson’s disappearance leads from one strange event to the next discovering that there is much more to Mrs Cavendish’s story than meets the eye (there always is). As the tale unfolds Marlowe finds himself entangled with a dead man walking the streets of LA, a pair of psychopathic hit men from south of the border and one of LA’s richest families who like all rich folks hide their secrets in grand mansions and country clubs staffed by oddballs.

As a huge fan of Chandler’s hard-boiled detective I was sceptical about Black-Banville’s attempt at recreating Chandler’s famous gumshoe. Too often with these sorts of novels you find yourself checking to see how the updated version stands up against your expectations but soon I forgot all about fact checking and was carried away by the unfolding mystery. Chandler’s Marlowe is a cynical loner with a silver tongue. Black’s Marlowe although a little older is none the wiser and still has the quick wit of Chandler’s creation. He’s determined to protect his clients and keep their secrets at all costs. Black’s LA has the all the hallmarks of Chandler’s originals “Los Angeles has its moments, if you’re rich and privileged enough to be in the places where they happen.”

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I feel that Chandler fans will enjoy it too, I also hope that this novel with introduce a new legion of fans to Philip Marlowe. A fresh take on an old classic I really hope that this is the first of many Marlowe novels by Black and we get to see more of the wise-cracking detective.

ISBN

9781447238041

Publisher Mantle

The myths surrounding Spaying and Neutering of dogs and cats MYTH: My dog or cat will get fat and lazy.

FACT: The only way your dog or cat will get fat and lazy is if you do not provide enough exercise and feed him/her too much. (We all love food).

MYTH: It’s better for my dog/ cat to have one litter before I spay her.

FACT: Oddly enough, a dog/cat who is spayed before her first heat cycle is typically healthier than dogs/cats spayed after the first heat cycle or after having a litter of puppies/kittens.

MYTH: My dog/cat is a purebred.

FACT: At least one out of every ten dogs turned in to animal rescues around the country are purebred. There is just too many dogs and cats bred, both mixed breed and purebred.

MYTH: My dog/cat will not be protective if I neuter him.

FACT: A dog’s natural instinct to protect his home and family is not affected by spaying or neutering. A male cat will no longer be involved in fighting, thus reducing expensive vet bills to treat wounds and abscesses.

MYTH: I don’t want my male dog/cat to feel like less of a male.

FACT: Neutering does not change a dog or a cat’s basic personality.

MYTH: My dog/cat is so special; I want a puppy/kitten just like him/her.

FACT: A professional dog or cat breeder, whose bloodlines stretch back for generations, has no guarantee of getting a particular characteristic from a litter. The dog/cat owner’s chances are even slimmer.

In fact, a whole litter of puppies/kittens might wind up getting only the worst characteristics of your pet dog or cat and her mate.

MYTH: Spaying and neutering is too expensive.

Cocker Spaniel: Why change it? I can still pee on the carpet in the dark.

Dachshund: You know I can’t reach that stupid lamp!

FACT: The cost of spaying or neutering is a one off payment. It’s a bargain compared to the costs associated with raising a litter of puppies or kittens.

German shepherd (Alsatian): Alright, everyone stop where you are! Who broke the light bulb? I SAID, “STOP WHERE YOU ARE!!!”

MYTH: I have good homes available for all of the puppies/kittens.

Golden Retriever: The sun is shining, the day is young, we’ve got our whole lives ahead of us, and you’re inside worrying about a light bulb?

FACT: True, you may have homes for some of your puppies or kittens and some people will change their minds, leaving you with more puppies/kittens than you want, what then? Remember, the dog and cat overpopulation problem is created and perpetuated one litter at a time. Please, if you truly care for your animals, neuter and spay.

Two female cats are sitting on the fence passing the time of day when a really handsome tomcat walks by and winks at them.

‘Oh darling, did you see that one?’ one of the felines says. ‘I wouldn’t mind sharing a dead mouse with him.’

‘Oh, forget about him,’ her friend tells her. ‘I went out with him once, and all he did was talk about his neutering operation.’

A tomcat was heard running up and down an alley for hours. A neighbour called his owner and asked what was happening. The owner said, ‘Well, I had him neutered today, and he’s going around cancelling all his engagements.’

How many Dogs does it take to change a light bulb?

Australian Shepherd: First, I’ll put all the light bulbs in a circle…

Border Collie: Just one. And then I’ll replace any wiring that’s not up to code.

Boxer: Who cares? I can still play with my squeaky toys in the dark.

Greyhound: It isn’t moving. Who cares?

Hound Dog: ZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzz Jack Russell: I’ll just pop it in while I’m bouncing off the walls and furniture.

Lab: Oh, me, me!!!! Pleeeeease let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Huh? Can I? Malamute: Let the Border collie do it. You can feed me while he’s busy.

Pointer: I see it, there it is, there it is, right there.

Poodle: I’ll just blow in the Border collie’s ear and he’ll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry.

If you would like to adopt a dog or cat from Mo Chara please contact us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/mocharaanimalrescue You can contact us by email mocharaanimalrescue@live.ie or by telephone on 087 2577182. All of our animals are vaccinated, wormed, de-flead, neutered/spayed and micro-chipped. All of our animals are healthy; all are in need of a loving home. A secure garden is required for all dogs.

24

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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VISIT THE WORLD’S STRANGEST MONUMENTS, THE WEIRD, THE WILD AND THE WONDERFUL! Oxford | Headington Shark

Often when you visit a city, you are struck by its beautiful scenery or breath-taking skyline but sometimes you can be caught off guard with an unusual sculpture or installation that literally leaves you speechless. Hotels.com has put together a traveller’s guide to the best, and the strangest, monuments in Europe that are sure to make you do a double take!

‘Unknown 1986’ aka the Headington Shark is a 25 foot tall sculpture that appears to emerge from the roof of a house in Oxford, England. Created by the sculptor John Buckley, the striking piece was erected on the 41st anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki and stands as a warning against the danger or nuclear power.

Switzerland | Kindlifresser Erected in 1546, the Kindlifresser or ‘Child Eater’ has terrified tots in the city of Bern for almost 500 years. The fountain sculpture stands with a baby stuffed in its mouth and holds a sack filled with three screaming children over his shoulder. No one is clear as to the statue’s exact meaning but it is thought to be a representation on the Greek Titan Kronus who was intent on eating children.

Where to stay: Best Western Hotelbern - Prices start from €110 per room per night on Hotels.com *Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and are for hotel rooms only Prague | Kun (statue of St Wenceslas) Contemporary Czech artist David Černý is famous for his works that often stir controversy.

One of his best known pieces is located in the Lucerna Palace and depicts the patron saint of the city, St Wenceslas, riding an upside down, visibly dead horse. Černý never comments on the symbolism of his works but many think that this is a reference to Václav Klaus, former prime minister and now president of the Czech Republic, and is a parody of the statue of the saint that is in front of the National Museum.

Where to stay: Grandior Hotel Prague - Prices start from €93 per room per night on Hotels.com

Where to stay: Hawkwell House Hotel - Prices start from €91 per room per night on Hotels.com *Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and are for hotel rooms only

Milan | L.O.V.E Also known simply as the ‘middle finger’, L.O.V.E is a much discussed and controversial sculpture by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan. Erected in 2010 in the Piazza Affari in Milan, L.O.V.E depicts a hand with all the fingers cut off, except for the middle finger. Although it was not recognised as such by the artist, the work seems to be a symbol of the economic crisis of the contemporary era. The artist said: “officially its name is L.O.V. E, so it stands for love, but everyone can read between the lines and take away the message they see for themselves.”

Where to stay: Starhotels Rosa Grand - Prices start from €152 per room per night on Hotels.com *Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and are for hotel rooms only

*Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and are for hotel rooms only

RNLI HONOURS LOUGH DERG VOLUNTEERS AT AWARDS CEREMONY IN FARMLEIGH AS CHARITY CELEBRATES 190th ANNIVERSARY The RNLI Annual Presentation of Awards took place on Saturday (21 June) in the Ballroom of Farmleigh House in Phoenix Park. It was a special occasion as it also marked the 190th anniversary of the charity that saves lives at sea and on inland waters. The awards recognise fundraising and operational volunteers from across Ireland for their role in raising funds and awareness for the RNLI and in doing so supporting the volunteer lifeboat crews in their work.

Guest of honour for the occasion was RNLI Chairman Charles Hunter-Pease, who handed out awards to sixty-one volunteers. Other attendees included the British Ambassador to Ireland Dominick Chilcott CMG, Commodore Hugh Tully, Flag Officer Commanding the Naval Service, Breda Collins, Chairperson of Irish Water Safety and Yvonne Shields, Chief Executive of the Commissioners of Irish Lights.

This year the highest award the charity can bestow on a volunteer, an Honorary Lifeboat Governorship, was given to Buddy Valkenburg who was instrumental in the establishment of the Ballyglass lifeboat station in Mayo.

Awardees were present from all over Ireland representing lifeboat stations and branches in Dublin, Donegal, Sligo, Wicklow, Cork, Louth, Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Kerry, Galway, Clare, Mayo and Kildare. The awards presented included the Honorary Lifeboat Governorship, 5 Gold Badges, 8 Silver Badges, 9 Inscribed Statuettes, 2 Inscribed Binoculars, 20 Bronze Badges, 7 Supporter Awards and 9 Certificates of Thanks.

Pat joined Lough Derg fundraising committee in 2003 and has been the Honorary Secretary of the Branch since 2007. He is a very reliable branch member who is active in attending branch meetings and can always be counted on to help out with local events and collections despite his many other commitments. Popular and well respected locally his efforts contribute hugely to the smooth running of the branch and local fundraising events.

During his speech RNLI Chairman Charles Hunter-Pease spoke of the awardees that were to be honoured during the ceremony, He said, ‘It all starts with the people who give their time, their donations and their expertise. Over the decades, as we have expanded our service and developed new craft and facilities; our volunteers, fundraisers and supporters have become more important than ever. Without them there is no lifeboat station, no lifeguard unit, no flood rescue team, and no coastal safety work preventing tragedies.’

Two

RNLI volunteers from Lough Derg were honoured. Names and citations below:

Dr. Peter Hooker was awarded an Inscribed Statuette. Peter has served the medical needs of the Lough Derg Lifeboat Station since its establishment. It is a family involvement with his wife Eleanor serving as Helm and Lifeboat Press Officer and Peter is a pivotal member of the Operations Team at this busy inland station. Ever present for meetings and operational needs Peter takes a genuine active part in the medical aspects of the crews training sitting in on Casualty Care courses and attending station in emergencies.

Dr. Pat Kelly of the Lough Derg RNLI fundraising branch received a Bronze Badge.

Dr. Pat Kelly

Dr. Peter Hooker

26

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Events at The Source Arts Centre Let’s Make A Ballet Monday - 07 to Friday 11 July €80/75 siblings

Drawing on inspiration from the original tale, The Elves and the Shoemaker, this year’s participants will have an unforgettable time creating a ballet with professional dancers from Ballet Ireland. Each day begins with class on stage with the dancers. Summer school participants become part of the creative process, helping to devise the choreography, create sets and costumes (including shoes!). Our hugely popular summer school, gives aspiring performers a taste for all that goes into making a ballet and a peak into the life of a professional dancer. Together with the dancers, the young performers play an important role in the creation of their own full length ballet which is performed on stage at the end of the week for family and friends to come and enjoy. Suitable for ages 6+ with or without dance training. Please book directly through Box Office on 0504 90204.

Please note class times are broken up into two age groups: *11am – 1pm, +11years *2pm - 4pm, 6 to 10 years

Art Camp Monday 14 July to Friday 18 July

€70/65 siblings

Qualified art teacher and professional artist Maria O’Brien has a fun and exciting art programme planned. There will be arts and crafts that the children may not have tried before, as well as drawing, painting and making skills. With lots of room for creativity, the camp is energetic, educational and sociable. All materials supplied. A great way to build confidence while encouraging creativity. Early booking advised. You can book directly through Box Office on 0504 90204.

Please note class times are broken up into two age groups:

*10.30am-12.30pm: 6-9 years *2.30pm-4.30pm: 10-12 years

The Supernatural Brothers Friday 18 July 8pm €12

The Supernatural Brothers new mentalism show Mind Games comes to Thurles. The Supernatural Brothers are The Mind Guy & Cornelius, they have been ‘brothers’ for 10 years now and have been leaving audiences amazed, open mouthed and screaming for more all over Europe.

They are now ready to unveil their new show Mind Games. Mind Games takes the audience on a tour of a place that lies outside reality and combines mind reading, telekinesis the act of projecting thoughts, with a touch of the paranormal just for fun. Since joining forces as “The Supernatural Brothers” – a contract they signed in blood, sweat and Tea (Barry’s Gold Blend of course) they have been wowing crowds all over Ireland and Europe. They are the best stage act currently touring the country. is better than Karaoke, Comedy, Music or Stage Magic. This is Mentalism. If you have not yet seen a mentalist show then it is hard to describe. This is what Derren Brown and Keith Barry do. Infact these guys are the next Keith Barry and Derren Brown. While not suitable for children, the Supernatural Brothers show Mind Games brings out the child in all of us that still gets excited and enthralled when experiencing or witnessing something that appears to be magical and paranormal.

Booking 0504 90204 or www.thesourceartscentre.ie

A Bit on the Side, Saturday 19 July 8pm €25

It’s the show that has been selling out theatres all over Ireland! Conal Gallen is bringing his hit comedy play A Bit On The Side to The Source Arts Centre. Conal takes his hilarious humour to a whole new level in this side-splitting comedy farce. Written by Conal and his son Rory, the action takes place in the household of Bridie and Willie Murphy, a couple who have fought the war of marriage, for over 30 years! Join Bridie,Willie,Dick and Cynthia as this tale of passion and intrigue unfolds! Guaranteed to be a great nights entertainment which will have you laughing from start to finish! | Booking 0504 90204

or www.thesourceartscentre.ie

Circus Summer School Monday 21 July to Friday 25 July €70/65 siblings

Unicycle | Diabolo | Hat Manipulation | Acrobalance | Rola Bola | Hula HoopOver the course of five days participants will be introduced to this wide range of skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Participants will learn how to warm up for each skill with basic movement and posture exercises as well as being encouraged to express themselves and be creative in their exploration of each skill. Facilitated by Little Bigtop’s Joanna Williams (Circus Instructor) and Julie Lockett (Dance Artist & Choreographer). Please book directly through Box Office on 0504 90204.

Please note class times are broken up into two age groups: *8– 11 years 10am – 12.30pm *12+ years 1.30pm - 4pm

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Auris from RRP €19,450. Excludes delivery and related charges. Model shown is Auris Sol RRP €22,100. Fuel Consumption L/100km Urban – 3.9, Extra Urban – 3.9, Combined – 3.9. CO2 emissions g/km - 91 g. †Includes delivery & related charges of €500, excluding metallic paint. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. ††The Guaranteed Minimum Future Value (GMFV) is payable if you renew or retain the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may be applied by your Toyota Dealer subject to kilometre limits/condition of the vehicle.*Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Finance is provided by way of a hire purchase agreement. Finance example is based on a fixed rate APR of 6.49% and is inclusive of a once off documentation fee of €63.49. To qualify for this Finance Offer; a minimum deposit of 7% of the On the Road Price and a maximum term of 37 months applies. Rate quoted is correct as at 1st June 2014 and is subject to change. The credit provider is Bank of Ireland Finance which is a registered trading name of Bank of Ireland. 3 years free servicing on all new Toyota passenger cars registered by 15th July 2014. See www.toyota.ie for full terms and conditions . All models come with a 3 year or 100,000km comprehensive warranty and 3 year Toyota Eurocare roadside assistance.

TY_Auris_Press_A4.indd 1

05/06/2014 16:23

28

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Kennedy Park turns 50 On The 30th May Kennedy Park Brophy Terrace and Cois Carrig came together to celebrate Kennedy Park’s 50Th birthday. Kennedy Park’s 1st residents moved into the estate which consisted of 20 houses. The Estate went on to become the biggest housing Estate in the whole of north Tipperary, today it consists of 180 houses within 3 estates and it’s a close knit community and all the neighbours look out and help one another.

The estate was called after the late President John F Kennedy who had been assassinated the year before and has seen a lot and came thru a lot in its 50th years with time the estate started to grow and families started to call it home and we still have 5 families that have lived here seen it grown and their families grandchildren and great grandchildren still live here Pat Ryan whose son Dermot was the 1st person to be born in Kennedy Park and whose husband was the late Jack Ryan the Tipperary Hurler, we than have Mrs Mai Brooks; Dan Ryan who is our oldest Resident at the great age of 97, Michael and Ena O Lone and Frank and Maureen Fitzpatrick.

People Living in Kennedy Park always love the chat and craic and are absolutely brilliant at supporting our local events.

A lot Of People from Roscrea would have been born in Kennedy Park as the Maternity Hospital was right next door in the old workhouse and the arch form the door into the workhouse can still be seen today in Kennedy Park’s memorial garden.

Dan Ryan Oldest Resident and Caeden Simmons Grace Youngest

Michael Hutchinson Eddie Simmons

Dan Ryan Oldest Resident and Caeden Simmons Grace Youngest

Michael Hutchinson Eddie Simmons

As this was a huge milestone we decided that it should be marked and what better way than with a celebration and that’s exactly what happened and on Friday Morning the 29 May when Aidan Mac and Tipp FM came into Tom’s Corner Shop and kicked it all off with music craic and 2 of our residents cutting a huge cake with a photo of Kennedy Park on it and on Saturday 30th we all gathered on the green for a day of fun and activities.

We started off by have mass celebrated with Fr Harding and our Past Parish Priest Fr Tony Cahir who came back especially for the day, Photos were taken of the oldest Resident Dan Ryan and youngest Caeden Simmons Grace who was just 3 months old, We than had tea coffee and food with all the food been donated by residents and people from outside the estate, the children enjoyed the bouncy castles mechanical bull sumo wrestling and wrecking ball all provided by Camcor Castles in Birr giant connect four draughts and Jenga were all provided

by John Brophy and C.A.M.P music was blasting out with tunes from TMC, Reunion, Michael Hutchinson, Jayo Digital DJ, Darragh Carey Kennedy gave us some tunes on his Banjo and Ivan Scullian gave us Crazy World Steven Simmons gave a tune while Mary O Reilly danced and sang along with them all. A barbeque was laid on from one of the neighbours homes and was enjoyed by all.

The celebrations started at 12pm and continued all day and into the night with everyone wanting more and maybe we will do it again in the future as it was a great success.

We would never have be able to have such an amazing day if it hadn’t been for the kindness of everyone who donated food offered their time and came out and had fun, we would like to thank people for their help cause it would not have been the success it was only for them so from all of THANK YOU. Michael Cussen, Bernie’s Supervalu, Lidl, Tesco, Mulrooney’s Gala for the fab cakes Brain Redmond for the Photography of Kennedy Park for the Cakes, St Vincent De Paul, Michael Smith, Camcor Castles and Marquees Birr, McDonald’s Restaurant, Dreannan’s Butchers, TMC, Reunion, Michael Hutchinson, John Brophy and C.A.M.P, Templetouhy Meats, Darragh Carey Kennedy, Roscrea Credit Union, Tipp FM, Aidan Mac, Tommy Heaney, Regina Simmons, Geraldine Delaney for the electricity for the whole day, Tom and Margaret Nash, Guards, Coville School John Butler For donating a Helicopter Ride Shane Lee Everyone that Helped out in anyway it’s the best little community anyone could live in and here’s to the next 50 years.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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DURROW ALL IRELAND

29

SCARECROW FESTIVAL SUN 27

TH

JULY – 4

TH

There’s something about Scarecrows!

The crowds gathered on Saturday May 3rd to be entertained by Roscrea’s very own cross dressing Lady Boys at an event for The Irish Cancer Society. A new craze swept the country during April that saw women across Ireland posting “No Make-up Selfie’s” on Social Media websites to raise money for The Irish Cancer Society. The media savvy lrish males quickly cottoned on to the new craze and answered back by posting their own “Selfie’s” wearing make-up and nominating friends to do the same, also adding their own variation on the craze by adding in the “cock in a sock selfie” fuelling the text phenomenon and raising some serious funding for a cause that requires continual support. Each text message received included a donation to The Irish Cancer Society and an incredible €1,000,000.00 was raised within a week.

Having run several successful “Shave or Dye” events over the years at The Stand, The Finest made a suggestion to the management to try a different approach that was more in tune with the latest craze to sweep the country. From this sprung the idea of organizing an event that required local lads to prove that they had the “sand” to perform in front of their local peers dressed in drag to bring the community together for a cause that has affected almost every family in the town. The actual response from Speedy upon hearing the suggestion from us was “You have had some pretty crazy ideas, but this one actually has merit”. With just a few short weeks to arrange the event Speedy got to work by contacting local lads who he felt would be “Man enough” to get involved. It didn’t take long to realize that many of the volunteers who stepped forward to bring this event together had experienced the devastating effects of Cancer within their own families and were only too willing to step forward to try to help make a difference, no matter how large or how small.

Local business people also came forward to pitch in and support the event through sponsorship and by offering their own skills to make the night a success. Carmel and Saba from Lucious Beauty on Main Street Roscrea brought their years of experience as make-up artists in to ensure that the Lady Boys event was a visually convincing event. A judging team were selected to rank the Lady Boys based on a series of questions put to them and of course a party trick for the entertainment of the crowds in attendance.

A raffle was held to generate funds on the night and the Lady Boys were also auctioned off to bidders in the crowd, the highest bidder winning the special privilege of buying the Lady Boy a drink.

The host for the evening was Ambrose Hogan who would have put Fred Rickwood from Father Ted’s “A Song for Europe” to shame with his seamless performance and excellent stage manner. The eight competing Lady Boys were announced individually and each was given her own time to impress the judges and to win over the crowd.

DJ Jamie Stoddart, who also appeared in drag for the event lined up the tracks for each contestants big entrance to the stage.

First up was Colm Nolan as “Candy Cocktail” next was Noel Whelan as “Nolita Chandelier”, the third entry was Eunan Carroll as “Juicy Cheeks”, Michael Carney was next as “Michaela Devine” , the fifth entry was none other than Rory O Connor with his alter ego “Raunchy Rhonda”, David Warren appeared as “DD Lucy”, second last on the stage was Aidan Doran as “Misty Cologne” and the final “Lady Boy” for the event was none other than Speedy who took the moniker of “Fritz’s Bitch” Special Thanks go to the Judges Sandra Read, Sandra O Donnell and Bridget Maher for their participation and expert judging of the contest.

The generous folks of Roscrea got together and dug deep for The Irish Cancer Society with the charity collection and auction proceeds reaching €840.00, Speedy then stepped in to round the figure up to an incredible €1,000.00 making the event a resounding success and once again showing the true character of the townsfolk.

AUGUST 2014

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

What is a Men’s Shed?

A Men’s Shed is a dedicated, friendly and welcoming meeting place where men come together and undertake a variety of mutually agreed activities.

Men’s Sheds are open to all men regardless of age, background or ability. It is a place where you can share your skills and knowledge with others, learn new skills and develop new skills.

New members are always welcome and can be assured that there is something of interest to everyone as the men have ownership of the projects and decide their own programme of events.

“Men don’t talk face to face; they talk shoulder to shoulder” was first said by Professor Barry Golding of the University of Ballarat, Victoria and Patron of the Australian Men’s Sheds Association. It is often this simple insight that resonates most with people when they first hear about Men’s Sheds and are wondering why they work.

About the Irish Men’s Sheds Association The Irish Men’s Sheds Association is a member based organisation which was set up by John Evoy in January 2011 with the purpose of supporting the development and sustainability of Men’s Sheds on the Island of Ireland. The IMSA as a national organisation represents the collective issues of Men’s Sheds in Ireland.

Statistics: There are currently 200 Sheds registered with the IMSA with approximately 6,000 men attending weekly and this figure is growing constantly.

The Future: The Irish Men’s Shed Association will work towards a future where all men have the opportunity to improve and maintain their health and wellbeing by participating in a community Men’s Shed.

John Evoy lki

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31

Roscrea Men’s Shed News

The Men’s Shed has elected a new Chairman and Secretary over the last few weeks. Alan Kiely has been elected as the new Chairman of the Roscrea Men’s Shed and Liam Sinclair has been elected into the role of Secretary of the organization.

Over the last month the Roscrea Men’s Shed have been busy getting everything reorganized and have been working hard to reinvigorate the group. Membership has increased and now stands at 32 members plus a variety of new projects are already underway. One current project is sponsored by local photographer Brian Redmond who has commissioned a set of bespoke stands to display his photographic work at his studio on Castle Street. The Roscrea Men’s Shed are delighted to work with local businesses and the community on such projects.

Another positive recent development was sorting out the land at the back of the Courthouse where the poly-tunnel project was ongoing. There had been uncertainty as to who owned the land, but it was discovered that the land actually belonged to Jack Delaney who kindly stepped in with a solution to the problem.

The poly-tunnel space is being developed to work hand in hand with the local Scouts group for environmental and educational training. The Roscrea Men’s Shed are also dealing with the local Tidy Towns group and look forward to working closely with Tidy Towns moving forward.

Once again the Roscrea Men’s Shed would like to appeal for any unused or unwanted tools or materials that can be donated to or collected by representatives of the Men’s Shed to continue in their work.

Brendan Lynch, John Maher Liam Sinclair and John Maher and Liam Sinclair

Roscrea Mens Shed New Roscrea Mens Shed Secretary Chairman Alan Kiely with Liam Sinclair new Secretary Liam Sinclair

BORRISOKANE MEN’S SHED OPENING CEREMONY The shed was opened on the day by Borrisokane’s Lord Mayor, Darragh McKenna. A great turnout of locals showed their support for this new and exciting project as well as their counterparts from the Roscrea Men’s Shed who’s support was very much appreciated. The Men’s Shed came about after a meeting held by Borrisokane Community Forum, supported by North Tipperary County Council where a number of speakers came on the night.

Within weeks, the Borrisokane Men’s Shed committee was formed and the Shed was started. The Shed is located in the centre of Main Street, once owned by Johnny Clarke, now owned by Áine McKenna who has been kind enough to lease the property to the men on a temporary basis. The men have painted and refurbished the property and now have a comfortable seating area where men can pop in for a chat and a cuppa. The workshop is now up and running and there will be making several projects over the coming months.

Funding for the start-up came from Cllr. Ger Darcy’s Mayoral fund, which paid for the equipment; St. Vincent de Paul, Donna McLoughlin – Donna McLoughlin Food Consultancy; Darren Connelly of Byrne-Curtin-Kelly Accountants; Cllr. Michael O’Meara; Enda Heenan; Greg Starr; Elaine Flannery and everybody who has financially contributed to the Men’s Shed.

Special thanks to Elaine and Aidan Claffey of Luigi’s who donated lovely food and beverages and to all who donated materials, tools and tea and coffee! Also thanks to County Enterprise Board for the donations of materials and thermos flask. All have been put to good use already!

Left to right Back row: Gordon Bennett, John Starr,John Maher, Roscrea Mens shed Michael Mitchell Alan Kiely and Liam Sinclair, Roscrea Mens Shed, PJ Power, Chairperson Front row: David Mitchell and Darragh McKenna, Lord Mayor of Borrisokane.

As the motto goes: “Men don’t talk face to face, they talk shoulder to shoulder”. The Shed has given a safe, secure environment to those men experiencing social exclusion through long term unemployment and rural isolation. It also promotes positive mental health.

Borrisokane Men’s Shed held its official opening on Wednesday 18th June 2014. It was also a milestone for the Men’s Shed Association as this was the 200th Shed to open in Ireland.

At the moment, the shed is looking for donations of furniture, old tools, timber, fire extinguishers, all of which would be much appreciated. Templates have been provided for bee hive honeycombs which they boys have assembled and they are looking for templates to build the hives themselves, as they have orders in place for them already!

The Men’s Shed is all about men taking a step forward to broaden their skills, enhance their lives and make contributions that have a positive impact on the local community. Please contact PJ on 087 2317427 to find out more.

Opening times for the Shed is Wednesday morning from 11am to 4pm and all are welcome to pop in and see what it is all about.

Know Your Rights - Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance Question My daughter will be 18 years old in August. Can I claim the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance for her?

Answer If she is still in second-level education, you may be eligible for the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BTSCFA) for her but you must apply for the Allowance and supply evidence that she is in second-level education.

The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance helps you meet the cost of uniforms and footwear for children going to school. Your children must be aged between 4 and 22 on or before 30 September 2014. If they are aged between 18 and 22 they must be in full-time second-level education in a recognised school or college.

You must be getting a social welfare payment or taking part in a training, employment or adult education scheme. In general, you must be getting an Increase for a Qualified Child with your payment. Also, your total family income must be below a certain level for your family size. The allowance is €100 for eligible children aged between 4 and 11 and €200 for those aged between 12 and 22.

The scheme is open from 1 June to 30 September 2014. The Department of Social Protection pays BTSCFA automatically to many customers. This means that they do not have to apply for the payment. If you qualify automatically, you should get a letter stating when and how your Allowance will be paid. If you do not get an automatic payment you must apply for the Allowance. If any of your children are aged 18 or over you must apply for the Allowance for them and supply evidence that they are in second-level education (even if automatic payments have issued for other children in the family).

Application forms are available in all local social welfare offices and Intreo centres, and on the Department’s website, welfare.ie. When a decision has been made on your application you will get a letter informing you of this and whether a payment has been awarded. If your application has been successful, you will also be told when and where you can collect the payment. If the Allowance is refused you can ask for a review of the decision.

Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre in Roscrea, Nenagh or Thurles.

Know Your Rights: Jobseeker’s Allowance Transition payment

Question My One-Parent Family Payment will be stopped next month when my youngest child reaches 10 years of age. Is there another payment I can get?

Answer You may qualify for a Jobseeker’s Allowance Transition (JST). This payment aims to support lone parents into the workforce.

You must have been getting a One-Parent Family Payment (OFP) within the 3 years before you make your claim for Jobseeker’s Allowance Transition. You must be habitually resident in Ireland, you must be capable of work and your youngest qualified child must be at least 7 and under 14 years of age. When your youngest child turns 14 the normal Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) conditions will apply to you.

The rules for JA and JST are very similar. The means test is exactly the same and the maximum weekly rate is the same (€188). Income from work is assessed in the same way. The main differences between JA and JST are: For JST, you are not obliged to be unemployed, available for full-time work and genuinely seeking work.

The 4-in-7 rule applying to JA does not apply to JST (you do not have to be fully unemployed for 4 out of 7 days). This means that you could work part-time for 5 days, for example.

You cannot cohabit with another person while you are getting JST. To get JST you must sign a declaration every 3 months to confirm that you are still entitled to the payment. You must participate in employment activation measures and you have to participate in any recommended course of education or training. You may also be able to access childcare supports.

Further information is available from your local Intreo centre or social welfare local office, and from the Citizens Information Centre in Roscrea, Nenagh or Thurles.

Who are we and What do we do?

Did you know that there are Citizens Information Centres in Nenagh, Thurles, Roscrea and Templemore?

We provide a free, independent, and confidential service on rights and entitlements. We are part of a network of more than 260 locations around the country.

We have up to date information on Social welfare, Income Supports, Family Matters, Health Services, Housing, Education, and many other topics.

So if you have a question about how to get a PPS number, the property tax, a medical card, or need help with understanding or filling in forms the Citizens Information Centre is a good place to get help.

Many people are not aware that we also have a Free Legal Advice (FLAC) service in North Tipperary.

It is offered with the support of volunteer solicitors who come to the Thurles CIC office on the first Thursday of every month from 7.30 pm to 8.30pm, and in the Nenagh CIC office on the third Tuesday of every month from 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm. This means that any person can have a free once off consultation with a solicitor. There is no need to make an appointment. Callers will be seen on a first come first served basis within the agreed hours.

We would also like the public to know that they can get a lot of helpful information on our website www. citizensinformation.ie

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Footing the Turf

Michael Campion, Craig Delaney and Kevin Shaw at Delaney’s Bog footing the Turf Monday 16th of June was a cracker of a day with the sun splitting the stones, but not the turf! As with countless generations gone by the break in the weather for the better brought out droves of people to foot the turf. It was no different for three local lads who had been busy footing the turf for the best part of the day already when we met.

Michael Campion, Craig Delaney and Kevin Shaw from Roscrea were busy up at Delaney’s bog footing the turf for relatives and friends. The three lads have been footing the turf every year going back over the last twelve years and look on it as a vital tradition that spans down through the centuries.

With the summer holidays on the way the three lads were keen to make the most of the sunshine and complete their annual task.

NEW TIPPERARY GAA MEMBERS DRAW 2014/2015 June 2014 Draw | Prize

Skoda Octavia or €15,000 Skoda Fabia or €10,000 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500,00 €500 (Prom) €200 (Conf) €200 (Conf) €200 (Conf) €200 (Conf) €500 (1st Prom) €400 (2nd Prom)

(Held Friday, 13th June in The Templemore Arms Hotel)

Draw No. J042 F728 M499 G614 E026 S683 A087 J450 T203 G789 M203 G601 F718 Q283 K359 E862 G990 T080 181 54 64 5

Club Skeheenarinky Silvermines Ballybacon Grange JK Brackens Boherlahan Dualla Toomevara Boherlahan Dualla Kilruane MAcDonaghs Killenaule Roscrea Kilruane MAcDonaghs Ballinahinch Moyne Templetuohy Golden Kilfeacle Moneygall Commercials Cahir Cahir St Marys Drom & Inch Nenagh Eire Og St Marys Arravale Rovers Skeheenarinky Silvermines

Name

Address

Biddy Ryan M DeLoughry Alex Rylands Declan Glynn Tom Ryan Sean O’Gara Laura Ryan & Jim Leamy Kilruane MacDonaghs Declan Grogan Dominic Moloney Fergal Healy Donal McNamara Mary O’Dwyer Martin O’Dwyer Patrick Kennedy Keith Fahey Frank Howlin Teresa Curran Ger Quigley Michael Bourke Mary Smith Peter Kiely Alex Webster Declan Hickey Maurice Duffy

35 Lower Cork St Mitchelstown Cork 50 Summerhill Nenagh Kildonogue Ardfinnan Clonmel Ragg Rd Templemore Ballinree Boherlahan Cashel Dromin Rd Nenagh The Bridge Thurlesbeg Cashel GAA Club Foulkstown Ballinure Thurles Upper Derrymore Roscrea Rapla Kilruane Killoscully Newport Galbertstown Lr Holycross Ballinahurst Tipperary Ballyvahy Dunkerrin Co. Offaly 15 Powerstown Way Clonmel 14 Mountain View Cahir Clonmel Rd Cahir Maryville Heywood Rd Clonmel Barnane Templemore 4 Thorndale Lawn Artane Dublin 5 Abbey Meadows Clonmel Murgasty Tipperary Boulteeny Nenagh

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www.team.ie

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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TEAM PR REILLY OPEN FOR BUSINESS IN THURLES PR Reilly is proud to announce their new investment in state of the art motor-factors in Thurles directly behind Ahern’s Topaz on the Abbey Road Thurles. The development not only delivers jobs to Thurles town but also brings the long tradition of quality and experience that one of Ireland’s largest and longest running motor factors offers to the local market. The new Thurles store is an addition to the growing network of Team PR Reilly outlets across Ireland as the company strives to create jobs in Ireland’s after sales market.

Founded way back in 1945 PR Reilly has been at the forefront of delivering the latest innovations in the after-market for motorists. The business is 100% Irish owned and operated which is all the more important in today’s motor industry here in Ireland where up to 50,000 Irish jobs are maintained and provides a huge boost to the domestic economy. Over the last 69 years the company has not only remained on the cutting edge of the ever changing automotive industry, they have also brought in the latest in world renowned brands for the benefit of the Irish consumer motorists. With decades of experience and strong links between Europe, America and Asia PR Reilly have helped to revolutionize the way Irish consumers source their car parts.

Many of the household name brands in auto parts were first brought in to Ireland by PR Reilly so consumers can rest assured that when they drop in to their local branch that they will find the knowledge and unique understanding of the parts required. The new depot showcases the world brand car parts and accessories that the modern day motorist requires to service and maintain their car at the required regular service intervals.

The new depot is managed by Steve Cronin who also has the back up of Aidan Hickey on counter service. The management and staff have a combined 30 years of experience in the motor factor industry and can advise customers on the correct choice to make across a range of hard parts, oils, fluids and any other required part or upgrade for your car.

To celebrate the opening of the new depot, customers in Thurles and across Tipperary North are invited in to avail of a 10% discount on all parts as a welcome bonus for new business. Based on the experience at other Team PR Reilly depots across Ireland customers become repeat customers once they experience the Team PR Reilly difference in knowledge and experience in not only understanding the parts required for your car but also the world class customer service.

Team PR Reilly are also keen to point out to female motorists that they can expect a world class level of customer service when dealing with their requirements. You do not need to be a mechanic to call in and talk to the staff about any issue relating to your car, we can help with fast friendly advice and are already working with the network of mechanics in the area and can pass on a recommendation of local professionals who will fit any of the parts purchased at our new depot directly behind Ahern’s Topaz on the Abbey Road in Thurles.

Local mechanics can also drop in and talk to us about our unbeatable trade offers and fast turnaround for their required parts. PR Reilly has built a reputation over the last 70 years that delivers for the mechanics. In our Industry we ensure that there are no “hard to source parts” as we have a network of suppliers that spans globally. Our new depot in Thurles operates its own specialist paint department for the local panel beaters and can supply a superior quality and service that ensures only the highest quality products are sourced and delivered for your clients. We also supply the leading world brands in body care products from compounds and polishes through to car wax.

For the home enthusiast who enjoys nothing more than spending a Sunday afternoon looking after the car we stock a massive range of products from tool kit packages to wiper blades to products for cleaning the interior for cloth or leather. Why not drop in today and talk to us about opening an account so that you can enjoy the latest car care products from Ireland’s leading Motor Factors Team PR Reilly.

The new Depot which is located directly behind Ahern’s Topaz on the Abbey Road in Thurles is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, open half days on Saturdays.

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ANOTHER WIN FOR IRELAND AT MONZA Ireland continued their strong performance in the in the newly formed Acceleration 14 Series scoring another strong haul of points which included one victory and six podiums at the famous Monza circuit in Italy.

Murray qualified pole position and after an extremely hard fight with Dutchman Danny Van Dongen & local driver Ricci he managed to claim victory, his 5th of the season. Race 2 Murray was embroiled once again with these two drivers and after a tough fight he would need to settle for the third podium position. Race 3 is reverse grid and would see Murray start behind his main rivals. A strong start saw him quickly move to second position behind Danny Van Dongen. Murray held this position until the final lap when a late charge from Ricci saw him pace Murray with a late lunge at Ascari pushing Murray onto the grass. As a result he dropped to fourth position but fought back at the final corner to take third position at the chequered flag. Keeping his impressive record of being on the podium in every race he has finished this season. After 12 rounds Murray continues to lead the series, 5 points ahead of Van Dongen.

Speaking after the weekend Murray commented: “After such strong pace in the early part of the weekend it was a little frustrating not to be stronger in race 2 & 3. But over I am happy to get a win and two podiums and retain the lead in the championship”.

Meredith was confident ahead of Monza as he displayed a dominant performance at the last event at Nurburgring taking 3 wins. For the first race Meredith would line up 3rd. A great start saw him grab the lead and he managed to lead the majority of the race despite huge pressure for Georgia’s Davitt Kajaia and Great Britain’s James Holman. Meredith’s Walkers Vehicle Rental backed Legend lead out of the final corner but as they ran to the line Kajaia picked up the slipstream and piped him on the line by 0.01 of a second.

Race 2 was a lonely race for Niki, who started from 4th on the grid. Again he got a good start and managed to lead into the first corner. Later in the lap he ran a little wide at the famous Lesmo 2 corner, which allowed Holman and Kajaia slip through. Unfortunately they had enough of a gap to break the slipstream and Niki saw out the rest of the race the same distance behind the two ahead. Kajaia won

with Holman finishing 0.002 behind in what is believed to be one of the closest ever race finishes in Monza’s history.

Sunday morning saw the arrival of two further Legends Supercup races, with Race 3 kicking off the day. With the results of day 1 determining the grid for day 2 Niki lined up second for Race 3. This time he followed the leader Kajaia into turn 1 and then made a move into turn two for the lead. After leading a couple of laps Kajaia slipped down the inside into turn 1, on the exit Niki got a better run and moved to pull alongside the Georgian. Kajaia quickly closed the door and the two made contact sending Niki into the grass at high speed. After re-joining both Holman and Kajaia were once again too far ahead for the Dublin man to get into the slipstream and he couldn’t close the gap. It finished Kajaia first, Holman second.

For the final race Niki started in 3rd position. He exited the 1st corner in second once again behind Kajaia and the two pulled out a small gap from the rest of the field. At the start of the race Kajaia seemed to be the quicker of the two, slowly extending his lead by a couple of tenths per lap. With 3 laps to go Niki began to slowly close the gap but on the final lap after setting the fastest first sector of the race and only 0.8 of a second behind Kajaia the Irish drivers fuel pump failed and he was forced to retire. Again Kajaia completed a perfect weekend and Great Britain’s James Holman came home 2nd.

After Monza Niki is still 2nd in the Legends Super-cup and Ireland are still leading the Nations cup 7.5 points. Niki had this to say following his arrival home from Monza: “It wasn’t a bad weekend from a results point of view, but we he the pace to win, so it’s hard not to be disappointed. Davitt has extended his championship lead and closed in on the Nations points too. Hopefully we can try to get the budget together to continue in the series as I feel I’ve a lot of unfinished business. I’d like to thanks Walkers Vehicle Rental for their support this weekend, without them we wouldn’t have been able to make it to Monza, and keep ourselves in with a shout of the championship.

The Acceleration 14 events will be aired on BT Sport and Motors TV in highlight shows in the coming weeks. For more information visit www.acceleration14.com<http://www.acceleration14.com>.

FORMULA FORD ECOBOOST ADOPTS FIA FORMULA 4 REGULATIONS FOR 2015 Contract signed between Ford and British motorsport governing body, the MSA, for development of new young-driver single-seater series Ford EcoBoost power for new carbon-fibre monocoque chassis New Formula Ford championship to feature on popular BTCC support-race package

portunity to aspiring young drivers

New Formula Ford championship to be run in accordance with the FIA Formula 4 Regulations, bringing op-

BRENTWOOD, Essex, 23 June, 2014 – Formula Ford is to adopt the FIA Formula 4 Regulations and guidelines in Britain from 2015 onwards. The move is confirmed today with the signing of a contract with Britain’s motorsport governing body, the MSA, which will see Ford create and develop a new race series to fulfil the FIA’s vision for a clearer path for young drivers looking to progress to Formula 1.

The move will see the adoption of a new carbon-fibre monocoque chassis which meets FIA F3 safety standards. The cars will be powered by the potent and durable 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost engine which has been successfully race-proven in Formula Ford during the last three seasons of competition.

The new Formula Ford championship will continue to feature on the live-televised supporting bill for UK motorsport’s biggest spectator draw, the British Touring Car Championship.

Welcoming today’s announcement, Gerard Quinn, Head of Ford Racing in Europe, said: “We are very pleased that many months of work has brought us to the point today where we can announce our plans for the long-term future of Formula Ford. We have worked closely with the MSA and the FIA, and in particular with the FIA’s Single Seat Commission President Gerhard Berger, to bring the project to fruition.

“The FIA has a focused objective – it wishes to see a clearly set-out path leading to Formula 1, and has created regulations aimed at securing consistent organisational standards, technical fairness, sporting relevancy and stability. Ford is delighted to be working with the MSA and the FIA to bring those plans to fruition.

“Over its 47-year history, Formula Ford has made a massive contribution to motorsport and we are delighted that it will continue to be at the forefront of young driver development.”

“This is a really exciting development for UK motor racing,” said Rob Jones, MSA Chief Executive. “The MSA has been committed to the development of British talent for many years and we are delighted to con-

firm our support of this championship through the involvement of the MSA Academy. We believe that the new Formula Ford will provide a compelling proposition and offer the best possible learning experience for young drivers in this country.”

It is anticipated that chassis meeting the FIA Formula 4 Technical Regulations – which include a carbon-fibre chassis meeting FIA F3 safety regulations, front and rear wings, slick tyres and semi-auto ‘paddle’ gearshift system – will begin testing and development in late summer with EcoBoost power, at which point further technical details will be revealed along with firm pricing.

The aim is to meet the FIA’s cost target of €38,000 for a rolling chassis equipped with data-logging and paddle-shift gearchange system. Continuing to be part of the TOCA package will see the series run over a 30-race programme annually.

Formula Ford evolution Formula Ford was conceived in 1967 and caught on like wildfire: in 1968 there were three separate championships being organised in Britain and two years on that number had grown to seven. Formula Ford reached mainland Europe and the USA in 1969 and by 1971 had spread as far afield as Brazil.

Formula Ford has been instrumental in the development of the careers of many World Champions, not least Ayrton Senna, Nigel Mansell and the most successful driver in the history of the sport, Michael Schumacher. F1 Champions James Hunt, Emerson Fittipaldi, Jody Scheckter, Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Jenson Button all cut their racing teeth in Formula Ford.

In recent years the competitive revolution and the continuing quest for improved driver safety has seen Formula Ford evolve and adapt. The original pushrod Kent 1600cc engines made way in 1995 for the more powerful Zetec 1.8-litre unit. This was replaced in 2006 by the Duratec 1.6. In 2012 the lightweight turbocharged 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine found in the highly acclaimed Fiesta ST was adopted by Formula Ford along with a raft of safety measures which have led to the chassis we see racing today.

The changes planned for 2015 and beyond will enable Formula Ford to maintain its much-envied position as the place for aspiring World Champions to begin their careers.

About the MSA The Motor Sports Association (MSA) is the national governing body, responsible for the regulation and administration of four-wheeled motor sport in the UK. The MSA is a member of the world governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and holds a seat on the World Motor Sport Council. The MSA represents 30,000 licence holders, 9,500 volunteer marshals and officials, more than 750 member clubs and issues permits for 5,000 motor sport events every year. As a result of its commitment to developing the sport, the MSA makes significant investment in the three elements of its Whole Sport Plan: ‘Grow’ targets an increase in participation levels, ‘Sustain’ invests in the infrastructure of the sport, its clubs and its people, and ‘Excel’ focuses on training future world champions and educating their peers.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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PEUGEOT PRESENTS NEW 508 MODELS AS BRAND CELEBRATES YOUNGEST-EVER RANGE Peugeot has unveiled its new 508 range, a clear illustration of the brand’s move upmarket. Building on the already elegant styling and the absolute quality of the existing models, the new 508 saloon, SW and RXH diesel hybrid models benefit from new equipment, new exterior and interior styling and the latest economical Euro 6 engines. Due to appear at this year’s Moscow, Chengdu and Paris Motor Shows, sales in Europe will start in September, reaching Ireland in late 2014. The new 508 joins the Peugeot stable at a time when the company is enjoying its youngest ever range in its 125-year history.

Presented at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the tremendously successful Peugeot 508 started its sales career in 2011. Available initially as a saloon or estate, a third innovative version arrived to expand the range a year later in the form of the Peugeot 508 RXH with HYbrid4 technology. Built in France and in China for the local market, a total of almost 370, 000 units have been sold since launch.

Peugeot’s designers have built on the already elegant styling of the previous 508, to produce a vehicle with even more technological prowess, character and style. The new models bear a new grille, emblematic of the marque’s future models. More vertical and more self-assured, the Lion is housed at the centre.

The front grille is framed by a distinctive light signature to include 100% LED daytime running lamps, direction indicators and front fog lamps. The rear end is more structured thanks to a more distinctive rear bumper, constructed to enhance its protective function. The opalescent red 3-claw rear light signature delivers a strong identity.

The interior has changed as well. The dashboard now includes a 7 inch touch screen, grouping together in an intuitive way most of the vehicles functionalities and as a result, the central panel now has fewer buttons. The centre console includes a new closed storage box, whilst a Head-Up instrument panel allows for great driver control and safety.

Fitted with new equipment such as a reversing camera and blind spot sensors, options include Keyless Entry and Starting, automatic electric parking brake, automatic headlamp dipping, quad-zone automatic air conditioning and JBL Hi-Fi. The quality of materials used, the quality of the equipment and the care taken with finish immediately place the interior of the new Peugeot 508 in a top of the range world that is modern and refined.

With double wishbone, decoupled hub front suspension (on the more powerful Diesel versions) or pseudo MacPherson on other versions, and multi-link rear suspension, the new Peugeot 508 continues to offer a remarkable compromise between ride comfort and road holding.

Ford Teams Up With GoCar to Make Driving a Doddle GoCar currently operates in Dublin and Cork and the expanded agreement with Ford means that 70% of the rental fleet are now Ford cars and vans. Often described as the “car version of Dublin Bikes”, the innovative rental service allows people to pick up a car when they need it – then drop it off where it suits. A key advantage of the GoCar service is that the cars can be parked for free at on-street parking spaces Dublin.

The partnership will see Ford continue to supply the majority of GoCar vehicles, with the current fleet including some of Ireland’s best-selling cars such as the Fiesta (GoCity Car) and Focus (GoTripper Car), plus Ford’s practical light commercial vehicle, the Transit Connect (GoVan) – International Van of the Year 2014.

“Ford vehicles account for almost three-quarters of the GoCar fleet already, so it was an easy decision to build on our existing partnership,” said Ford Ireland chief Eddie Murphy. “GoCar is a great idea and a really nifty service for people who might need the use of a car or van once in a while, or for a short period of time. For Dublin customers, with city-centre parking costs continually rising, the option of parking for free at on-street parking spaces is a huge bonus.”

GoCar has been recognised as an environmentally sustainable and cost effective alternative to private or corporate car ownership, with increasing numbers of customers in both Dublin and Cork availing of the service.

“Business is booming, people love the concept, they love the convenience, the cost effectiveness and of course everyone loves hopping behind the wheel of a brand-new car,” said Colm Brady, Managing Director of GoCar. “In that respect, Ford cars are perfect for us – they are extremely safe, very economical and fuel-efficient, not to mention loads of fun of drive”.

“The Fiesta is one of our most popular cars and customers especially love its SYNC technology which is ideal for business users with its enhanced hands-free, voice-activated calling and its text-reading facility and for leisure customers who want to connect to their music and playlists,” Mr Brady added. “We’re absolutely delighted to grow our partnership with Ford.”

The saloon and SW ranges will benefit from economical and efficient Euro 6 engines, including the 2.0 litre BlueHDi 150bhp 6-speed manual with CO2 emissions of just 105g/km, a best in class for this level of power. A new 2.0 litre BlueHDi 180 EAT6 saloon version has been type approved with CO2 emissions of 111 g/km. For petrol, the new Peugeot 508 introduces a new Euro 6 engine: the 1.6 litre THP 165bhp, with a six-speed manual gearbox or fitted with the new EAT6 six-speed automatic gearbox. Replacing the Euro 5 1.6 litre THP 156, this new 165bhp engine allows reduced CO2 emissions to 129 g/km (6-speed manual) from 144 g/km.

As for the HYbrid4 technology, which so far remains a unique proposition in the segment whilst also boasting the best CO2 emissions and fuel consumption figures in its segment, it is of course carried over to the new saloon and the RXH. The 163bhp 2.0 litre HDi Diesel engine and the 37bhp electric motor coupled to the rear wheels operate either alternately or together to offer 200bhp 4WD. The four driving modes (ZEV, 4WD, Sport and Auto) provide the driver with exceptional ease of use and driving experience. Excellent economy is achieved: type approved with CO2 emissions of 85 g/km, and with combined fuel consumption of 3.3 l/100km (85.6 mpg). It is notable that thanks to the success of the 3008, 508 and 508 RXH diesel hybrid models, Peugeot is the second biggest seller of hybrid vehicles in Europe.

The new Peugeot 508 will be produced at Rennes for the European market, and at Wuhan for China.

Launches will start in Europe from 10 September 2014 and in China from January 2015.

2014 will be an important year for the Peugeot brand with the goal of rapid return to profitable growth. Global sales of the brand at the end of May 2014 were up 5.4% to 683,000 units. In Europe (30 countries), the brand sold 407,000 vehicles, representing an increase of almost 14%, or twice the market growth. This growth takes place within the most profitable market segment, in that of the retail market, in which the brand gained almost 1% market share in the first five months of the year. Peugeot sales in China experienced a strong increase of 28%, which corresponds to twice that of the market growth for the first five months of the year. In May, customer deliveries reached a record of 34,000 units, an increase of 47% compared to May 2013.

The brand has greatly benefited from the success of its latest launches, especially the 2008 crossover which has exceeded 150,000 sales and the new 308 which has already reached 100,000 sales, with the SW version launched in April already off to a fast start in Europe, ahead of its summer arrival in Ireland.

This important volume growth for Peugeot in Europe and Asia bodes well for the launch of the new Peugeot 508, as Europe and Asia will be its two main markets.

Breen dealt another blow in Belgium When Peugeot Rally Academy driver Craig Breen arrived in Belgium for round six of the FIA European Rally Championship the “Geko Ypres Rally” he was well aware that he needed a good points haul from the rally if he was to have any hope of getting his 2014 championship back on track after a brace of non-finishes in Ireland and the Azores. If the Rally Acropolis winner was to indeed forget it there was what appeared to be and endless line of people there just waiting to remind him of how important a good result was, so the pressure was on from the word go.

Craig and his co-driver Scott Martin got straight down to business on Thursday evening’s qualifying stage and stopped the clocks in their Peugeot 208T16 second fastest, just half a second behind Italian Driver Luca Rossetti with his Peugeot Rally Academy team-mate Kevin Abbring in third spot. Many rallies on the ERC have local drivers that always perform well but in Ypres there is only ever one big threat and that’s eight times winner Freddy Loix and he qualified fourth hot on the heels of the Peugeot pair.

The drivers could afford to sleep on their road position choice as the start selection ceremony did not take place until the following day at lunch time and Craig chose as he qualified, second spot. For sure he wouldn’t have the advantage of seeing where other drivers were taking lines and braking as if he had chosen to run further down the field but it was the perfect road position if the weather should turn like it had last year making conditions treacherous on the slippery Belgian asphalt. It’s never a good omen when you have trouble on the first stage of the first leg and on Friday evening that’s what Craig got when he straight away picked up a front left puncture on the rally opener. It was Abbring that won the stage with the locals Cedric Cherain and Loix taking second and third respectively. Craig’s bad luck continued on the second stage when his brakes all but disappeared after the previous puncture severed a brake line and Craig was only able to make temporary repairs. Craig limped on through the next two stages to get to service but lost lots of time to the battle at the front between Abbring, Loix and Rossetti. Although running trouble free for the final three stages of the leg Craig said “I don’t feel confident to push hard”, his earlier problems obviously unsettling the feeling between him and the car.

A beautiful morning greeted the drivers for the start of leg two (Saturday) and a reborn Craig posted third quickest time on the opening SS8, a mere 0.9 seconds off stage winner and main championship rival Esapekka Lappi. Lappi’s rally came to an end on the next stage which gave Craig even more encouragement to fight back up the leader board but technical issues began to hamper the Peugeot Rally Academy driver once again and they climaxed in transmission failure on SS14 forcing Craig into retirement.

As the leading drivers continued to drop out with problems it was left to Ypres master Freddy Loix to make safely across the stop line on the final stage to claim his ninth victory on the event.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

Cartell

Motoring Update All the signs indicate that 2014 will be a strong year for used vehicle sales in Ireland. Our analysis of the Used Vehicle Market indicates that a two-speed market is in effect: those buyers that were relatively unscathed by the recession and are continuing to change their car every 3 or 4 years (this is the most popular sales cycle) as opposed to those who were adversely impacted by what has been termed the Great Recession and simply cannot afford to change their car at normal pre-recession intervals. Our analysis, which we published in September, said there were around 40,000 used cars which would have been traded in for brand new vehicles were it not for the recession. We concluded that if the market conditions were right in 2014, if there were the correct incentives for those thinking of buying a brand new vehicle, then 2014 would be a good year for new vehicle sales. Consequently, this has a positive impact on the used market as it means more vehicles are for sale and more transactions are taking place. So far, and it is still early days, it appears our conclusions were correct. We’ll know more later in the year.

Another study we conducted was to establish which day of the week is the most popular day for car sales. Interestingly, based on all used car sales concluded in 2013, Tuesday was by far and away the most popular day to do business in Ireland last year. The most popular day of the year to do business in 2013 was the first Tuesday in October and of the top-10 best-selling days, Tuesday filled 7 spaces out of 10. The final Monday in September was the second most popular day overall, but was the only Monday to feature in our list of most popular days. The remaining two spaces were taken by the second Wednesday in October and the final Friday in September.

The most popular week to sell a car in 2013 was the first week in October. Every day that week, from Monday to Friday, daily transactions in excess of 4,000 sales per day were recorded. The period from 24th September through to the 8th October recorded particularly high numbers of transactions.

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The top 10 Best Selling Days in 2013 were as follows:

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Date Numbers Day 01/10/2013 7231 Tuesday 30/09/2013 5730 Monday 24/09/2013 5496 Tuesday 02/10/2013 5424 Wednesday 05/11/2013 5227 Tuesday 27/09/2013 5079 Friday 03/09/2013 5052 Tuesday 17/09/2013 4929 Tuesday 08/10/2013 4872 Tuesday 05/03/2013 4800 Tuesday

Jeff Aherne, Director Cartell.ie, says: “Overall in 2013, Tuesday was once again the most popular day to sell a car in Ireland. This has been a recurring theme since Cartell started analysing these figures in 2011. The reason for the popularity of Tuesday is probably because people use Monday to catch up and plan their week and possibly to recover from the weekend. It may also be attributable to the requirement to visit the bank (perhaps on Monday) before completing the purchase (on Tuesday).

Several of the days which appear in the top 10 fall at the end of September or the start of October.

Cartell was aware of a sales spike in September, this was information we had already disclosed to the market last year. The high number of sales during that period may have been attributed to the new Government rules on declaring vehicles off-the-road during which time queues outside tax offices were widely reported in the press.”

2014 C.A.R.I. Motorbike Charity Run

On Saturday the 21st of June bikers from the Munster area along with staff from the C.A.R.I foundation met in limerick for their photo shoot and press release to promote the 2014 motorbike charity run in aid of C.A.R.I . At this were bikers from all over Munster including some of Roscrea’s own bike club the Free Spirits, members of Roscrea’s Cardiac Response Unit and Limericks Red Cross Unit. The two units put on a great display of their skills to everyone. On sat the 5th of July bikers from all over Ireland will meet in limerick at o Connells bar Anacotty at 10:30 am to sign in.

Well over 100 bikers will set off on a round trip around the lakes of co Limerick and Tipp. Roscrea will be the refuel town for them at the new spar on the birr road between 1:30 and 2 pm.

Roscrea cardic response unit along with Limerick Red Cross unit will be support cars during the run. Once they leave Roscrea the bikers will head to the Dunkerrin arms for refreshments before heading back to Limerick to O Connells bar for a BBQ and a raffle of spot prizes

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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TRIUMPH AT LE MANS: AUDI DEFEATS PORSCHE AND TOYOTA In front of nearly 300,000 spectators on Sunday 15th June, Audi continued its unique string of victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours. In the 82nd running of the world’s most important endurance race, Marcel Fässler/André Lotterer/Benoît Tréluyer (CH/D/F) and Lucas di Grassi/Marc Gené/Tom Kristensen (BR/E/DK) made for a one-two Audi victory.

It marked the 13th Le Mans success for the brand with the four rings in only 16 runs – and may have been the most valuable one to date, as Audi Sport Team Joest prevailed against massive competition by Le Mans returnee Porsche and Toyota in an extremely tough race that was completely open for a long time. The decision in favour of the two Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars was only made in the final phase of the race.

“We’ve seen many exciting races and celebrated great victories at Le Mans, but this success has a very special significance,” said Professor Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, following the triumphant finish by the two Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars. “We didn’t enter this race as favourites and in Porsche and Toyota had two very strong rivals. That we managed to win Le Mans again this time in spite of this is a fantastic achievement by the whole Audi squad. We’re tremendously happy and my thanks go to all who have made this success possible.”

“The new Le Mans regulations place an even greater focus on the efficiency of the race cars at Le Mans than before,” said Professor Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, who as Board Member for Technical Development is responsible for the motorsport program of AUDI AG. “In the TDI, the world’s most efficient drive technology has prevailed at Le Mans yet again. At the same time, with our successful first use of the laser light, we continued our string of technological pioneering achievements at Le Mans. I’d like to thank everybody who has worked extremely hard for this success, above all of course the Audi Sport squad.”

For Audi, the Le Mans 24 Hours was billed as ‘Welcome Challenges’ – and there were plenty of them in the 82nd running of the famous endurance race for the brand with the four rings. Following a serious accident of Loïc Duval in Wednesday’s free practice, Audi Sport Team Joest had to prepare the #1 Audi R18 e-tron quattro in record time again from scratch and to replace Loïc Duval with Marc Gené. That this team was on course for victory on Sunday morning says everything about the feat performed by the mechanics. However, in the end, the change of an injector and a turbocharger narrowly prevented this fairy tale from coming true. With a gap of three laps Lucas di Grassi, Marc Gené and Tom Kristensen took second place.

Marcel Fässler, André Lotterer and Benoît Tréluyer took the lead for the first time on Sunday morning, shortly after 5 a.m., after having put consistent pressure throughout the night on the Toyota that had been leading for a long time. As the turbocharger had to be changed on their R18 as well, car #2 temporarily dropped to third place before moving back to the front in a remarkable recovery during which André

Lotterer also set the fastest race lap of 3m 22.567s.

Major misfortune was suffered by the squad of the third Audi R18 e-tron quattro with Filipe Albuquerque, Marco Bonanomi and Oliver Jarvis. Following a strong early phase, car number ‘3’ during a safety car period in pouring rain, was hit in the rear at high speed by a GT Ferrari on the Hunaudières straight.

The powertrain of the R18 was so heavily damaged in the incident that Marco Bonanomi was forced to retire after just an hour and a half.

In the hectic first hours, the fascinating Le Mans prototypes of Audi, Porsche and Toyota were fighting captivating duels on the Le Mans high-speed circuit that kept the spectators in awe. The fans experienced one of the most gripping races in Le Mans history until noon on Sunday. The decision in favour of Audi was only made in the penultimate hour.

“It was a race of the kind you can only experience at Le Mans,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “There were many incidents and none of the top cars made it across the distance without any problems. The decisive factors were that our Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars were able to drive consistently fast for 24 hours, our drivers made no mistakes and our squad responded properly and quickly to the issues that occurred. In Porsche and Toyota we had two really strong rivals who, as expected, did not make life easy for us. I always believed that, in spite of the particularly difficult prerequisites for us this year, we’d be able to succeed and that we’ve got the most efficient race car. That we succeeded again makes me feel proud. ‘Thanks’ also from me to the whole squad, but to our Management Board and our Group as well that make it possible for us to demonstrate ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ at le Mans year after year. But I also express my respect for the performance delivered by Porsche on their return to Le Mans.”

For Audi, this marked the 13th victory in the ‘24 Heures,’ the eighth one with TDI Power and the third one with a hybrid race car. The team of Reinhold Joest celebrated its 15th success in the world’s most important endurance race. Marcel Fässler, André Lotterer and Benoît Tréluyer, after 2011 and 2012, achieved their third Le Mans triumph.

Dublin Based Racing Team Murphy Prototypes continue their impressive pace at Le Mans Le Mans, France – Thursday 12th June: Murphy Prototypes have now completed their first day of track activity this week ahead of the Official 24 Hours of Le Mans race starting on Saturday.

Running all three drivers in Wednesday afternoon’s free practice session, the team picked up on their impressive pace from the Official pre-event test to finish the session in second. The time, set

by Karun Chandhok early in the session left the team feeling very confident going into the evening’s Qualifying Practice One. Rodolfo Gonzalez began proceedings just after 22:00 for the first qualifying session of the week.

The Venezuelan driver put in a very solid stint before handing the car over to Nathanaël Berthon.

Sadly the session was halted by red flags on a number of occasions before being ended prematurely and preventing the team from showing their true potential.

Karun Chandhok set the second fastest time in Free Practice on Wednesday afternoon PhotoRepro free Jakob Ebrey

Karun Chandhok - #48: “It was an ok day yesterday. Obviously it was disrupted by red flags like everybody else. Rodolfo got to qualify and do some driving in the dark which can be quite daunting. Nathanaël and myself didn’t really have a chance to drive the car yet but the car was good in Practice so we will see how we get on today.”

Greg Murphy, Owner, Murphy Prototypes: “Today has been another good day for the team. I’m really pleased with the performance of all three drivers throughout the sessions. Obviously it was a shame that we didn’t get a little more running in qualifying to show our true pace but I’m confident we remain very strong here this week.”

Murphy Prototypes is proud to have one of the fastest growing followings in the ELMS (European Le Mans Series) and the prestigious Grand Prix of Endurance, the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The team, based in Dublin, Ireland, compete in the ultra-competitive LMP2 Prototype class finishing 7th in class and 13th overall at last year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans despite a harrowing drop to 52nd position after an electrical problem. The team presently run an Oreca 3 chassis which is currently powered by a Nissan engine.

Le Mans rookie Nathanaël Berthon has been looking very composed during Wednesday’s track activity Photo repro free Jakob Ebrey

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Citroen DS 5 Blue HDi 180 DS 5 is now available with a new Euro 6 compliant engine – the BlueHDi 180 – which boasts a more powerful engine (+20bhp over the Euro 5 HDi 160), a latest-generation 6-speed automatic gearbox, Stop&Start technology and significantly lower CO2 emissions from just 118g/km.

The improvement to CO2 from 158g/km to 118g/km levels delivers clear benefits with VRT decreasing from 27% to 17% now qualifying for A4 Motor Tax with an annual rate of €200.

Prices start at €39,795 for DS 5 DStyle BlueHDi 180, rising to €42,695 for the range-topping DSport.

DS 5 also boasts a new suspension set-up for enhanced comfort and dynamism. New shock absorbers dampen oscillation, improve vibration comfort and deliver a smoother ride whilst the preloaded linear valve (PLV) – a progressive damping technology – reduces sudden changes in damping force by enabling the shock absorber to produce a more linear damping curve.

Three years and 53,000 orders on from its launch, DS 5 now offer more comfort, power and performance than ever before.

BLUEHDi 180: IN DETAIL BLUEHDi 180: IN DETAIL The BlueHDi 180 offers a significant level of power (133 kW) and maximum torque (400Nm at 2,000rpm).

The addition of a new variable-geometry turbocharger, together with higher supercharging and combustion pressures, sees the power of the DS 5 BlueHDi 180 increase by 20bhp over the previous generation model. Comfort too, is improved, thanks to the fitment of engine balance shafts.

With the BlueHDi 180 engine, the brand is already meeting Euro 6 standards, with an exhaust system comprising: - An oxidation catalyst at the rear of the engine, eliminating engine-out hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) from combustion - A Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) module, positioned up-line from the particulate filter. This injects Adblue®* (urea) to transform up to 90% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) into water vapour (H2O) and Nitrogen (N2), while reducing CO2 emissions by up to 4% - A particulate filter to eliminate 99.9% of particulates.

An innovative, unique exhaust architecture with a precise line-up of technologies, the SCR module is the only after-treatment system that can reduce up to 90% of NOx emissions while cutting CO2 emissions by up to 4%.

NEW CITROËN GRAND C4 PICASSO NAMED ‘BEST MPV’ IN 2014 TOW CAR AWARDS New Citroën Grand C4 Picasso is ‘Best MPV’ in annual Tow Car Awards Grand C4 Picasso praised as “a superb 7-seat MPV and a very stable tow car” Citroën’s New Grand C4 Picasso has been named ‘Best MPV’ at the Tow Car Awards 2014.

One of a record number of entries this year, the Grand C4 Picasso was put through its paces by a team of experts from Practical Caravan, The Camping and Caravanning Club and What Car? at the MIRA proving ground in April. The already multi-award-winning 7-seater was judged on a number of aspects, including high-speed stability, emergency braking, hill starts and practicality – an area where the Grand C4 Picasso excels.

The ultra-practical family car impressed across the board, with the judging panel commenting: “As a people carrier, the Grand C4 Picasso has the lot: space for seven, flexible seating and plenty of storage space. The large glass area lets plenty of light in, too, making the Citroën a pleasure to travel in.”

Frédéric Soulier, Managing Director, Citroën Motors Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled that the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso has once again topped its class with this award. Family-friendly, comfortable and spacious, the Grand C4 Picasso is the ideal car for long caravanning adventures and provides excellent stability when towing, so we’re very pleased it has been recognised for these strengths in the Tow Car Awards.”

Available from just €26,795, the New Citroën Grand C4 Picasso strikes a new balance between benchmark space, engaging styling and record efficiency – and now it’s been voted the best 7-seat compact MPV for towing as well

*The Adblue® Additive is stored in a 17-litre tank at the rear of the vehicle, offering a range of nearly 12,500 miles.

The tank can be re-filled via the convenient cap in the boot.

NEW GENERATION 6- NEW GENERATION 6---SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX DS 5 BlueHDi 180 is fitted with a latest-generation 6-speed automatic gearbox. This new transmission lowers the engine’s operating speeds thanks to an adaptation of the gear ratios, while a wider power band enables constant performance when moving off. The engine’s high torque (400Nm) developed at 2000rpm leads to a decrease in engine operating speed at higher vehicle speed.

The gear ratios of the new gearbox and associated accelerator pedal maps adapt to driving style, enabling the motorist to shift from an economical, controlled driving style to a more dynamic one, simply by pressing harder on the accelerator.

To find out more call in to Mulcahy Car Sales Ardcroney

MULCAHY CAR SALES DELIVERS THE GOODS The commercial market is racing ahead and Mulcahy car sales in Ardcroney Nenagh are right at the coalface in delivering the latest commercial vehicles to meet the rising demand from the local business market. If purchasing a commercial vehicle is a show of confidence in a franchised dealership, then purchasing ten is a very positive sign. Mc Mahon’s Building and Home Improvement Centre have done just that and were delighted to receive eleven brand new Citroen Commercial vehicles supplied by Damian Mulcahy from Mulcahy Car Sales. The Finest can also report that the message has been received loud and clear across Tipperary North with our own advertisers purchasing Citroen Commercial Vehicles for their own businesses from Damian at Mulcahy Car Sales.

As we are now in the important 142 market Citroen Commercial Vehicles hope to push forward in delivering the quality vehicles required to drive business forward in Tipperary North.

“Mulcahy is your man for your car or van” make sure to call in to Mulcahy car sales to find out about the award winning Citroen Range including car of the year 2014 the Citroen C4 Picasso.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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THE INSIDE TRACK, FROM A SEAT ON THE FENCE

The last month has been an epic one in the Flat Racing world. We have had the Derby and of course Royal Ascot. And what a month it has been. In my first article back in April I gave ye all a horse to Follow and stay on the right side of. That horse was Australia, without blowing my own trumpet, How right was I?? He was third in a Good Renewal of the 2000 Guinneas , over an inadequate Trip with no luck in Running. Then the next day out he trounced his rivals in the English Derby. He is the Star that Aidan O’Brien had promised us he was. I write this article the Wednesday before the Irish Derby, I can say with Confidence by the time you are reading this he will be a Dual Derby Winner for Father and Son Combo Aidan & Joseph O’Brien.

another one for the Notebook.

Next up was Royal Ascot, the equivalent of the World Cup of Horse Racing. I was lucky enough to get to the London track for a few days, they were as enjoyable as always. Royal Ascot isn’t Royal Ascot without the Picnic, luckily friends of mine had ours organised. Big thanks to them. The racing and festival of Royal Ascot is second to none. There is so much that Irish Racecourses, who try stage their own Festivals could learn. There is no sign of drunken Kids Falling around this place, the dress code is strict but fair. The way it should be. The Top-Hat and Tails in necessary if you want to mingle with Royalty, though a Dress Suit will suffice for general admission. For the ladies, its formal dress only, which is only right. It is the Sport of Kings after all. Moving on from the trivial aspect of the great meeting, next up was the racing… It didn’t let us down. The highlight has to be The Gold Cup on the Thursday, Leading Light just got home before the Queen’s charge Estimate and the gallant Cork Trained Mare Missunited. This race was a pleasure to witness live.

Here you had Coolmore, the most powerful organisation in World Sport, The Queen & a small time trainer from county Cork all going head to head. It was magic. Missunited will have her day in the sun, but the beauty of the race was it showed how easy it is to get lucky and own a top class racehorse. Irish Trainer Eddie Lynham also had a Festival to remember with 3 winners from 4 runners. That was a savage show from a relatively small yard also. Local trainer Tom Hogan ran his stable star on the Saturday of the meeting, but the trekking around the world earlier in the season may have finally caught up with the Super Star as he never functioned. The other star of the week has to be the horse that finished in front of Australia in the Guinneas, that was Kingman. He is

On a local Scale, Cloughjordan man Denis Hogan has had a purple patch over the last week, training and riding two winners. Hogan is a man to watch, while he is a very able rider. He will hit his peak as a trainer, and the winners just stay coming. Stable Star Inis Meain is primed to land a big pot somewhere over the summer. So keep an eye out for him.

An on-going issue within racing circles for quite some time now id Channel 4’s presentation of Racing on Terrestrial TV. In the past Channel 4 and BBC have shared the rights to air UK Racing, bit in the last couple of years the rights have gone solely to Channel 4. Since this has happened, the figures watching free to air racing in the UK and Ireland has plummeted. Channel 4 culled all the older presenters and replaced them with less knowledgeable and quite frankly less likeable people. Every Saturday see’s social media trolling Channel 4, looking for them to bring back Johnny Francome, Allaistair Down and even Big-Mac aka John McCrirrick. For me Channel 4 Racing has become un bearable and I for one have given up on it. Have a look yourself and see what you think.

The Derby Sales, which is the premium National Hunt Horse Sales, has been going on over the last few days, and has smashed all previous records. The sale topper was sold to Coolmore Kid, MV Magnier who gave €220,000 for a Yeats half-brother to Sizing Tennessee. The horse was for his mother and a friend of hers. These sales have thrown us huge stars in the past and this year will be no different.

As we gear towards the Galway Festival, I would entice you to get out and go Racing. It’s a highly enjoyable day out for all, young and old. It was never as affordable. There Is a huge race day coming up au Tipperary Racecourse on Saturday July 12th. Go along and enjoy the Fair.

That’s all for now, don’t forget you can contact me on twitter with any questions or queries. Also Follow for tips. @DInsideTrack

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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WAYNE “HAWAII 501” MARDLE AT THE FULL HOUSE

Friday the 13th proved to be somewhat lucky for local darts fans as Wayne Hawaii 501 Mardle made an appearance at The Full House for the St Anne’s Parents Association fundraiser night.

Wayne Mardle a former professional darts player who once reached the ranking of fifth in the world is hugely popular among darts promoters, television audiences and the core darts fans. He acquired the nickname “Hawaii 501” when playing on the BDO circuit he wore Hawaiian shirts on the oche for a bet.

Wayne is one of the rare breed that has an abundance of charisma, matched with professionalism and most important of all a down to earth sense of humour.

Local Darts League players were in for a treat as they got to go head to head with Wayne in a series of 501 matches. Sparks flew as each contestant was given a verbal “roasting” from Wayne in jest and the pub was full of smiles and laughter at each performance. Wayne managed to capture the attention of the audience from the get go right through to the end of the evening when he actually made time for people in the audience to do a questions and answers about Darts. The first question was of course “What is the capital of Australia” which quickly descended into a hilarious slagging match.

Kudos to the event organisers for choosing to deal with Wayne Mardle as they certainly put on a fantastic memorable event which saw the best side of the local Darts scene out in force with a night to be remembered.

Boody Fletcher with Wayne Mardle

Fergus Carney with Wayne Mardle

Fergus Carney, Adrian Brooks and Yozzer Carney

Joe Lynch Junior with Wayne Mardle

Wayne Mardle with Judd Choppin

John Paul Graham, Alan Walsh and Alan Graham

Liam Stapelton with Wayne Mardle

Lorraine Teehan, John Teehan and Joan Teehan

Michael Lynch with Wayne Mardle

Wayne Mardle with Kieran Landy

St Annes Parents Assoc members

Wayne Mardel with James Lynch

Wayne Mardel with Joe Lynch Senior

Wayne Mardle and Adrian Brooks

Yozzer Carney with Wayne Mardel

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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KILLAVILLA UTD AFC END OF SEASON BBQ AND PRESENTATIONS The season ended well for Killavilla UTD AFC with a selection of wins across various age categories. Many players have now been chosen from both the boys and girls teams for the emerging talent programme.

The annual awards presentation ceremony was held at Villa Park recently and the crowds gathered to enjoy the Killavilla hospitality with a free BBQ which was certainly enjoyed by both the parents and the players. Killavilla are looking forward to the next season already and have many different plans for the coming year.

Killavilla UTD AFC is re-launching their club Lotto during the summer months. Donal O Sullivan will be spearheading a new club Lotto campaign.

Killavilla UTD AFC would also like to extend their thanks to The Finest who have done a fantastic job working with the club over the last 17 months.

A selection of trophies from John O Donnell

John Davidson with Liam Grimes

Jackie Dillon with the Football for all squad

Killavilla U14 Division 1 Winners

Joe Tracey with the Under 16 League Winners

Paul Costello with Paul Costello

MARTINS GARAGE

Having built up ten years of experience working at the local franchised Citroen dealership Martin Okurowski decided to open up his own garage as it had always been his dream to run his own premises. Martin specializes in Auto Electrics, the removal of DPF filters, EGR Valves and repairing the ECU in car engines.

These services are highly sought after and Martin is known not just in Tipperary North but Nationwide as a specialist in these areas of repair and service. Martin keeps up to date with all of the latest education and training in his area of expertise as the technology in cars keeps on evolving with each new model released onto the market. Martin’s Garage has all of the required specialist tools and software to diagnose the problem.

Martin’s Garage also do the regular car servicing and maintenance work and operate a no job too big or too small policy. If you require specialist work done to your car drop in to Martin’s Garage your local specialists.

Po dziesięciu latach doświadczenia u lokalnego dealera Citroena Marcin Okurowski postanowił otworzyć swój własny garaż, ponieważ zawsze marzył o prowadzeniu własnego biznesu. Marcin specjalizuje się w elektronice samochodowej, usuwaniu filtrów cząsteczek- DPF, EGR, naprawie sterowników poduszek powietrznych, czujników sonda lambda, usuwaniu błędów w sterowniku silnika, zmianie limitów prędkości i wiele innych. Te usługi są teraz bardzo popularne i poszukiwane a Marcin jest znany nie tylko w Tipperary ale też w całej Irlandii jako expert w tych dziedzinach.

Marcin bierze udział w najnowszych szkoleniach i ciągle pogłębia swoją wiedzę bo jak wiadomo technologie w samochodach rozwijają się coraz bardziej z kazdym nowym modelem wchodzącym na rynek. W swoim garażu Marcin zgromadził wszystkie specjalistyczne urządzenia i programy do diagnozowania problemów w samochodach.

Garaż Marcina oferuje regularne serwisy, przygotowania i sprawdzenia przed NCT oraz prace konserwacyjne –działanie zgodnie z polityką że nie ma zbyt małej lub zbyt dużej pracy. Jeżeli twój samochód wymaga specjalistycznych usług wystarczy że oddasz go do garażu Marcina- twojego lokalnego specjalisty.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

Aaron Mulready accepts his medal from Beany

Beany O Lone with Ryan Thompson

Adam Kiely gets his medal

Cameron Fairbrother with Beany O Lone

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Beany awards Ryan Moloney with his medal

Coby Murphy with Beany O Lone

Beany O Lone hands Enda Moore his medal

Conor Murphy with Beany O Lone

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ROSCREA UNITED FC Under 10’s/Under 11’s Another Unbeaten Team!!

A huge congratulation to the Roscrea United FC Under 10’s who went the entire season undefeated!!

The young side, dubbed “the best up and coming team in Roscrea” by many supporters put a smile on a lot people’s faces this year with some fantastic performances and incredible skills to ensure they had no loss in any game this year, rounded off with a good finish in the end of season blitz in North Tipperary.

Daniel Loughnane

Dean Doheny steps up to take his medal

Devin and Daniel Loughnane

Jack Qulivan accepts his medal

The team, managed by one of the most dedicated team of coaches which was headed by Jason Simmons and included Pachal Ryan, The Bob!, Ray Mulready, Eddie Simmons, Alan Shovelar, among others and had Aideen Feehan supply some of the most incredible organisation for a first season team!

We hope we don’t leave anyone out but a huge thank you to all who helped and supported throughout the season with this incredible group of young players. The Under 10’s had great results away to Killavilla, home to BT Harps and other great local rivals, a season not to be forgotten!

That is not to leave out the Under 11’s who had a fantastic season and pulled off some excellent wins and great performances throughout the season.

The club wishes to thank McDonalds for all their support with this side and we were delighted with the end of season party (pictured) which was arranged by Jason and Aideen and hosted by McDonalds.

Dean Doheny steps up to take his medal

Kian Carey with Beany O Lone

Lee Doran with Beany O Lone

Lee Loghnane accepts his medal

A huge thanks from everyone has to go to Aideen Feehan, many will never know the enormous work Aideen put in this season and how she held the whole thing together, thank you very much Aideen!!

To the coaches, thanks very much for all your time and effort and hard work, without you and Aideen we would not have been able to see the incredible young up and comers playing and bringing smiles to a lot of people’s faces!

And a special thanks to The Finest for all the support year round, each and every turn we have been fortunate that The Finest has been here to make sure our achievements are seen!

Noah Shovelar accepts his medal

Tommy Murphy receives his medal

Tyler Byrne with Beany O Lone

Ray Mulready, Kevin Daly, Alan Shovelar, Paschall Ryan,Paddy Murphy, Eddie Simmons, Neil Conlon, Jason Simmons, Beany O Lone, Aideen Murphy

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Crossword puzzle Crossword by www.alberichcrosswords.com

Sudoku 1 to 4

DOWN 2- Old stove’s colour (6) 3- Supporter keeps pound for tart (4) 4- Captain provides opening for sound sleeper (7) 5- Dry run requiring outside help (4) 6- One slip spoiled foreign letter (7) 7- Rare title circulates around university as reading matter (10) 8- You keep below – shouting’s beginning to get noisy (10) 12- Be needing tennis stroke in advance (10) 13- A little knowledge of Swedish initially being important (10)

14- Was model embracing popular and good person? (5) 15- In credit, need to pay shrink (5) 19- A bit of a shock involving Chelsea’s top player (7) 20- Soldiers negotiate for shelter (7) 23- Score freely, netting century in game (6) 25- Copper needs to be 27 perhaps (4) 26- Reasonable-sounding price (4)

SERVICES ADVERTS

ACROSS 1- Seize conflicting factions in church (10) 9- European sophistication (6) 10- Is a climate change causing disasters?

(10) 11- Writer keeps ring for labourer (4) 12- British team’s touring Spain in addition (7) 15- Converted democrat has no time for friend (7) 16- Road damaged by nitrogen gas (5) 17- Fellow gets to have a meal – that’s an achievement (4) 18- Money is essential to amateur ornithol-

ogist (4) 19- Annoyance when old car doesn’t start (5) 21- Withdraw religious education pamphlet (7) 22- Note, garment provides compensation (7) 24- Writer not unknown to be difficult (4) 27- Urbane exec unusually displaying high spirits (10) 28- Grandmother has setback in French city (6) 29- The tears we shed, darling (10)

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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Roscrea UTD Football Club

Champions!!!

First Season Puts Kennedy Park Boys on the Football Map

Arra Rovers

W

H

4-0

Formed in February 2013, Roscrea United FC was Kennedy Parks return to the Tipperary Football fold.

Nenagh AFC B

D

H

1-1

Previously, Carrick Park FC were the Stallworth’s of Kennedy Park football.

With some success in Junior Football, the club was known for producing young footballers, some of whom returned to play this season, setting up the foundations for a season that most never believed would happen at a club most never believed would last.

Borrisokane

W

A

3-2

Kilcommon

W

A

3-0

Borroway

W

A

3-1

When Stephen Glynn and Micky Ryan Jnr. started the club, it was difficult to presume the success that would follow in the very first season.

The club was not taken very seriously by most in February to June of 2013 and stories of the possibility of the club folding in its first season began to come out, the boys proved those stories wrong!

Clonmore W A Walkover Ardcroney

W

H

Walkover

Division 3 Champions Playoff Win Rubber Stamps Excellent Season Division 3 Playoff Final: Roscrea United 5 – 1 Cloughjordan

In May 2014, Roscrea United lifted both Division 1 and Division 3 of the North Tipperary and District League and the Barry Cup after a season which seen only 1 League loss between two teams and more than 150 goals!

Having lost in the Division 3 Playoff Semi Final after 2 rounds were the Roscrea lads could only muster 2 goals it was not looking likely that a League Challenge was on the way but that all changed after 2 games!!

Management of Richard Loughnane and Terry Deane, A and B team manager respectively, guided their sides to historic league titles at first ask and brought the silverware back to Kennedy Park, in fact 2 out of 4 titles now rest in the Park while another is down the road in Streamstown, 3 of the 4 Leagues are in Roscrea after a dominant and wonderful season for Roscrea Soccer!!

The first ever League goal for Roscrea United FC was scored by local barber and Kennedy Park native, Thomas “Guggy” O’Brien, and set the club off on a run that seen some unbelievable results and sent medals home to some of the towns longest serving players!

Division 1 Champions Undefeated Season at First Go After defeat at the hands of Clodaigh Rangers in the Division 1 shield final, Roscrea United FC A opened up the race to the League title at home to their Shield Final conquerors, the result was somewhat different to that of the previous week, winning the game 8-1 and setting up what was to be the start of a dramatic run to the top!

September Brought 4 Leagues and 4 wins, with 27 goals scored and 2 conceded; a brilliant start to the clubs inaugural season.

Highlights from the season include David McNamara scoring 27 goals before he left to play in top Junior football in Scotland, Paul Kirwan scoring 44 goals in all competitions and on the way cementing his name in Kennedy Park history, Robbie Ryan scoring some of the most spectacular goals and top performances from John Cordial, Eoin Shanahan and Craig Byrne in midfield. Micky Ryan gave good account of himself and showed great heart in both losing his place at centre half and winning it back during the season to finish with a flourish.

The big win away to Nenagh FC B in Islandbawn was a hugely memorable game, for good and bad reasons, but the result made the run to the League Title almost guaranteed and put one hand on the trophy while the two games against Borrisokane, easily the toughest opponents in the League, were the best games of the season, twice it took late goals to take 6 points off a team who deserved promotion but just missed out.

After 18 games, 17 wins and a draw and 68 League goals with 15 conceded to a goal difference of + 53, Roscrea United FC went undefeated to lift the NT&DL Division 1 at first ask and set up a season in the premier division where there will be much expectation!!

Below: Results from the season.

Stats: Goalscorers: Paul Kirwan – League Goals – 27 Robbie Ryan – League Goals - 9 W/L Venue Score

Clodiagh Rangers W

H

8-1

Ardcroney

W

A

2-0

Kilcommon

W

H

4-0

Clonmore

W

H

13 - 1

Borroway

W

H

2 -1

Arra Rovers

W

A

7-2

Nenagh AFC B

W

A

3-1

Nenagh Celtic B

W

A

3-1

Nenagh Celtic B

W

H

7-1

Clodiagh Rangers W

A

2-1

Borrisokane

H

3-2

W

The season turned after a loss away to Cloughjordan ended the run in a 3-0 loss closing the gap to just 3 points with Cloughjordan having a game in hand and setting up the possibility of a big playoff final.

Huge highlights from the season for the B team, Martin Harty scoring more than 30 goals and playing some of the most skilful football of the season, Chris Conlon, who we must congratulate on the birth of his twins, scoring some of the most memorable goals in a season where he showed his class, Shane Lee, our local county council candidate, scoring some stunning free kicks, especially 2 against Gurtagarry from more than 35 yards, Gavin Loughnanes crunching challenges, veteran Tom Carney in goal showing the youth how it’s done, veteran Barry Loughnane who many would not believe is more than 20 years old with his movement and skill at left back, Aidan “Cox” Moloney who could not score that elusive goal, Templemore original Paddy Murphy whos passion was only equalled by captain fantastic Niall O’Lone, the two most passionate players in Tipperary football. A spectacular season with more memories than can be listed all came down to one match.

In Nenagh AFC’s Brickfields, the best venue in North Tipperary, Cloughjordan faced Roscrea United after the two finished level 55 points.

The game started well for Roscrea United who created the better chances before a free kick was spilled into the Roscrea goal to give Clough the lead, from then on though the game was Roscrea’s, some amazing goals from martin Harty and Gavin Loughnane at different points in the game were outdone by Chris Conlon, who, after a corner, rose up in mid air and like a top professional hit a volley from above his head to smash the ball into the net.

The 5 – 1 scoreline could have been even bigger after total domination from Roscrea United and captain Niall O’Lones speech at the end only topped it off, an emotional finish to the season and a division title for the boys in red!!

Season Results Below:

David McNamara – League Goals – 19

Opposition

The second game of the season was the watershed moment that woke the B team up, having lead twice Noreside Celtic grinded a draw out in Kennedy Park which would set the B team off on a 12 League Game winning streak and lead them to an undefeated streak of 14 games and 3 points clear of Cloughjordan. Some huge results in the 12 game run seen an 8 -0 win in Kennedy Park over Holycross B, 7-0 away over Clodaigh Rangers and a stunning 5 -0 win at home to title contenders Cloughjordan.

Opposition

W/L Venue Score

Sallypark B

W

A

1-0

Noreside Celtic

D

H

2-2

Lough Derg B

W

A

3-2

Borrisokane B

W

A

4-1

Arra Rovers B

W

H

4-0

Rearcross B

W

A

2-0

Cloughjordan

W

H

5-0

Holycross B

W

H

8-0

Clodaigh Rangers C W

A

7-0

Sallypark B

W

H

5-2

Noreside Celtic

W

A

2-0

Gurtagarry

W

A

4-2

Rearcross B

W

A

5-0

Borrisokane B

W

H

7-0

Cloughjordan

L

A

0-3

Borrisokane B

W

A

3-2

Gurtagarry

W

H

3-2

Lough Derg B

W

H

2-1

Clodaigh Rangers C W

H

2- 0

Arra Rovers B

A

Walkover

W

53

Barry Cup Champions Excellent Final Creates Roscrea History Roscrea United 3 – 0 Borroway Rovers Goals: Paul Kirwan x 3 Roscrea Uniteds run to the final was quick and the only real challenge they faced in the rounds leading to Thurles was the usual tough game from Borrisokane where the Kennedy Park reds came away with a 3-2 win, the third exact same scoreline against the same opponents.

The final was set up perfectly, Borroway Rovers had a slight home advantage in the Thurles Greyhound Stadium as they are Turles natives, but entering the stadium you would not have thought so as Roscrea outnumbered the Borroway lads dramatically.

The game started quickly and Paul Kirwan took a shot in the second minute from distance that just skewed wide, followed by a chance for Martin Harty that looked a stone wall penalty after rounding the keeper and being hauled down.

That wasn’t to matter as Paul Kirwan took centre stage scoring a dramatic header inside the third minute as Roscrea began to dominate. At half time Roscrea’s dominance was balanced on a 1-0 lead but 3 minutes into the second half Kirwan struck again to make in 2-0 and start to pull away.

The second half was a tough encounter and Borroway tried to match Roscrea in the physical stakes but 19 minutes into the half Paul Kirwan put the game to bed with a final hat trick and the first cup in Kennedy Park in 16 years as Roscrea United lifted the Barry Cup at first attempt!! A dramatic final and a huge win!

Route to the final: Clodaigh Away won 1 -0 Borrisokane Away won 3 - 2 Nenagh celtic Home won 6 - 0 Borroway Rovers Neutral Won 3 -0

Special Thanks Richard Loughnane Steps Down After Monumental Season After a hugely successful season, Richard Loughnane stood down as A Team manager at the beginning of June.

Richard guided the A team to an undefeated season in the Division 1 and won the Barry Cup in style while keeping together a strong group of players.

Richard did much more than just managed the A team, he was instrumental in helping the club organise the success of the opening game against Sheriff YC, organising the pitch and kiting out the container among other things, Richard will be sorely missed and the club would like to extend a huge thank you to Richard Loughnane for everything he has done and achieved.

Welcome To The Gaffer David Nash Stands into Top Roll After a Junior football career which spanned underage international football, clubs such as Home Farm, CCFL medals and NT&DL medals, David Nash, one of Roscrea’s most well-known footballers has stood up to the plate to manage Roscrea United FC A. The club moves into the Premier Division and will challenge the likes of Nenagh AFC, Nenagh Celtic and Thurles Town, where Davids experience will prove vital!

The club wishes the best of Luck to Nasher and may the medals haul continue!

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“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

ARDCRONEY FC JOINS GLASGOW CELTIC INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP For the past three years teams from the Ardcroney Football club have been travelling over to Glasgow to watch Glasgow Celtic play football. Last Season over 25 players travelled over to play the Celtic Boys club on a Friday and would then head to a Scottish Premier Football League game on the Saturday. Once the opportunity came along to get involved with an International partnership, Ardcroney Football club jumped at the chance. The process began and many was the meeting held and countless emails later the tie up was finally confirmed.

Ardcroney Football club are now an official member of the Glasgow Celtic International Partnership. Celtics academy coaches will travel to Ardcroney next October to run Celtic Soccer camps. The value of this cannot be underestimated as these very coaches have trained players such as Aidan Mc Geady, Shaun Malloney, and Tony Watt who scored the goal to beat the mighty Barca, This is the quality of coaching that will now be available to anyone who wants to take part from the 5 -17 age group, details of the camp will follow soon.

Photo: Kieran Holland Ardcroney Fc, Willie Mc Nab (Glasgow Celtic) with John Crowe Ardcroney FC

HOW TO ENHANCE PERFORMANCE PRE, MID AND POST SEASON

Premier County Physiotherapy Templemore & Thurles

This is a question we are continually asked in both our Chartered Physiotherapy Clinics. In most cases the timing of this question is unfortunate as the player / athlete is attending us with an established injury that may have been avoided if they had been properly screened. These injuries obviously affect performance, as there may be a residual unresolved mobility problem or motor control issue post injury. This may not be overly obvious and the sportsperson may feel they are now non-injured and can go “ full - pelter “ , but an injury can leave that person with a hidden dysfunction in their playing style or technique which will ultimately affect future performance and may even lead to another injury. There are also individuals who may never have had a significant injury but their performance may be affected on an ongoing basis by an unscreened and therefore unexposed movement pattern asymmetry. These individuals are carrying hidden issues that are frustrating them by “holding them back” and negatively affecting what could be a much better performance.

So what is the answer?

Well if performance is being affected by a muscular, mobility or motor control problem, performance can be enhanced simply by diagnosing, exposing and correcting what is exposed. There are many chartered physiotherapists who have trained and specialised in screening, testing and correcting these previously undiagnosed dysfunctions in players / athletes.

We at Premier County Physiotherapy, use FMS - Functional Movement Screening and SFMA - Selective Functional Movement Screening to expose all these issues. We then use proven and effective corrective functional strategies to negate the exposed patterns. Sometimes we complement these corrective strategies by introducing Yoga and Pilates regimes when appropriate. Ultimately, our objective is to correct and achieve higher better results when we re-screen, which in turn translates into significant improvements in performance for the player/athlete.

We screen pre, mid and post season and our goal at all times is to eliminate undiagnosed issues and enhance optimum performance.

The advice is “Do not add fitness to a dysfunction “- get screened and improve your performance!

To be screened please contact Jackie or Maggie at Premier County Physiotherapy, Templemore or Thurles on 0504-26090 and ask for FMS or SFMA screening.

Therese Ryan, Eibhlis Cooney, Laura Meagher and Joanne Shanahan

ST PAULS BOXING CLUB Jody Mitchell has been boxing at St Pauls Boxing club in Nenagh over the last four years. During that time Jody made four attempts at the all-Ireland finals, three were unsuccessful, but Jody managed to take the Irish Title for 2014. Jody who boxes at Youth 1 level (86kg) has also retained the County Champion Title and Munster Champion Title over the last four years.

Moving forward into the next season the club aims to re-open around mid-August into early September and Jody will be working towards retaining his All-Ireland title and would like to represent his country at an International youth level.

The coaching team behind Jody are Steve Hanley, Gary Thompson, Andrei Chuhai, Liam Armstrong and Martin Orr. Huge effort has been put in by the coaches who all share a desire to see Jody and other club members reach the pinnacle of their potential in boxing.

St Pauls Boxing club would like to thank all of the supporters who have helped out with the club over the last season, which has turned out to be the best season ever with 9 County Champions and 5 Munster Champions. Special thanks go to all of the volunteers who pitched in for flag days and church collections.

Onwards and upwards for the approaching season.

“The Finest” | Issue Nº 16

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THE NEW INSTITUTE SNOOKER CLUB The New Institute Snooker Club, Nenagh was founded in 1887 and is one of the oldest surviving snooker clubs in Ireland presently. The club was set up following the handover of the Institute building on Friar St., by the local Parish Priest Revd. Nicholas Power to the Nenagh Literary Institute. The club became the New Institute during 1976, when the original two tabled Institute Snooker Club was expanded to a five table snooker hall. The club celebrated its 125th anniversary in November 2012. The club was recognised for this achievement along with its playing success, with a Civic Reception from the North Tipperary County Council in December 2013.

The most famous past member of the club is undoubtedly Jack Ayres. Jack won six National Titles from 1931-1939 and was also a semi-finalist at the British Amateur Championship. In 1937, Jack played an exhibition against the Ladies World Billiard Champion, Ms.Joyce Gardiner in the snooker hall, while Ms. Gardiner was on a five week tour of Ireland. They played to a packed hall on the day.

At present the club has three members who have European Titles to their names. These are David Hogan, with two wins and Brendan O`Donoghue and Patsy Farrell, each with one win apiece. On the national front, Brendan O`Donoghue, David Hogan and Tom Gleeson have won several National Titles, while on the team front, our club has been very successful winning six out of the last nine Munster Team Championships and the 2008 All Ireland Club Championship in Killarney. The club has also won two All-Ireland Inter-County Titles. Additionally on the International scene, Jack Ayres, David Hogan, Brendan O`Donoghue, Patsy Farrell, Tony Seymour, Mark Walsh, Bernard Casey, Damien Shoer, Andy McCloskey and Michael Healy have all played for Ireland, earning many International caps between them.

2014 Munster Team Champions. Left to Right: Tom Gleeson, Paudie Kelly, Mark Walsh, Patrick O`Donoghue (Gleneagle Hotel, Competition Sponsor), Brendan O`Donoghue, Tony Seymour and Andy McCloskey To date, our best player is Brendan O`Donoghue, who at International level has been beaten in two World Amateur Semi-Finals and was defeated in the 2012 European Final in Daugapvils, Latvia. In Ireland, he has won almost twenty ranking titles and has also finished as the Irish No.1 snooker player. Brendan has won every underage title from under 12,14,16,18,19 to 21.

At the Munster and All-Ireland Club Championships in Killarney, Brendan over a period of four years went on a run of fifty nine straight games without defeat. Without doubt, this has made him a fantastic ambassador for such a small club.

Brendan O`Donoghue(left), along with PJ Nolan(Irish National Team Coach) and Rodney Goggins on International Duty representing Ireland Brendan along with clubmate David Hogan are both former professional snooker players. However neither earned a top 64 place on the Professional Tour in their first season in 2009 and returned to the amateur scene in 2010. However David returned to the pro circuit in 2011 but was once again unsuccessful and returned to amateur ranks once again in 2012. The honour of having two players from the club on the professional snooker tour provided the club with a real boost, and despite their absence, the club continued to perform strongly at amateur level here in Munster and Ireland.

Costello Cup Final 2014, L:R, David Hogan(winner), Breda Doherty(referee), Kevin Costello(sponsor), Brendan O`Donoghue(runner-up) At present the snooker club as a whole is thriving.

As mentioned above we are the current Munster Team Snooker Champions and were defeated at the All-Ireland semi final stage by the eventual winner, The Q Club of Wicklow.

Brendan O`Donoghue and Mark Walsh recently won the National Doubles Snooker Championship in the Ivy Rooms, Carlow, to ensure that once again the New Institute has at least one reigning National Champion.

Tom Gleeson reached the quarter final stage of the European Masters Snooker Championship

in Sofia, Bulgaria, before losing out to his former professional Welsh opponent, Darren Morgan.

Brendan O`Donoghue is also set to represent Ireland at the World 6 Red and Team Championships at the end of this month, along with his playing partner, Rodney Goggins.

The club is also currently recruiting more female members. At present our youngest junior female member is 10 year old Kate Cavanagh. We also had the honour of having the first father-daughter combination at the Munster Team Championships this year, when Paudie Kelly along with his daughter Leah represented the club. Additionally 14 year old Emily Talbot represented Ireland in the Worl Team Championships in October of last year. Breda Doherty, Irelands most senior female referee is also a member of our club and has recently refereed on the world stage at the Q Schhol in Gloucester, England. Breda has also branched into the playing ranks in recent months, participating in numerous club competitions.

Emily Talbot and Leah Kelly on our Junior Club trip to the Ivy Rooms Carlow in 2013 The snooker season runs traditionally from September until June each year. The club runs numerous competitions throughout these months.

These include the Sean Dunne Memorial Handicap, Winter Handicap, Summer Handicap, and Spring Handicap. The showpiece event for Senior players is the Costello Cup, which takes place each spring and is sponsored by the Costello family of Costello`s Garage, Nenagh. Additionally, junior competitions accompany each of these events, which are played on a one day basis.

James Dunne(left) is presented with the 2013 Sean Dunne Memorial Shield by Eddie Ryan (New Institute Snooker Club Committee. Tommy Treacy(right) runner-up.

The club as a whole combines fundraising activities with social events throughout the year. The club relies on these events to fund the upkeep of the facilities, such as maintaining our five snooker tables and modernisation of our club. These fundraisers include our annual flag-day, table quizzes and hopefully the return of a Christmas draw. In May 2014 a 24 hour snooker marathon was held in the club, with many club members playing Brendan O`Donoghue, who played the full course of the marathon for the club and for local charitable organisations.

Marathon 2014: Left to Right. Thomas Forde, Brendan O`Donoghue, Niall Farrell( New InstituteP.R.O.) Opening Hours: The club at present is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4-8pm for junior members. The cost of this is one euro per hour. This is expected to vary during the summer months. The club will however be closed at these hours, during the month of August, in order for alterations to be made to the snooker hall. These hours for juniors are fully supervised by two adults at all times.

The club is open for Senior members from 10am-4pm Monday-Friday. Also committee members open Monday-Friday 8-10pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 5-7.30pm. Junior Members are only allowed in at these times in the presence of a guardian.

Membership: Our membership runs from and to the 31st October each year. Any potential members will be allowed to visit the club on several occasions, before they decide to join or not. An emphasis is placed on membership for insurance purposes.

Membership rates are very reasonable. A family membership consists of €50 euro and there is no limit to how many family members there may be. A senior membership costs €40 euro, while unemployed, students and juniors costs 20 €euro.

Any queries can be made at 089-2016984 or find us on Facebook at New Institute Nenagh Snooker.