All your news from Ballinakill, Cullohill, Durrow and Spink

THIRD LAOIS DURROW SCOUTS: If your child is interested in joining scouting at any age, please contact Leanne our group leader at gldurrow@gmail.com by email. We’re also looking for adults to join as leaders – the time commitment you give can be flexible and since we’re a voluntary organisation we rely on our fantastic leaders, without whom the group simply couldn’t exist. And who knows, you might even enjoy yourselves! And if being a leader isn’t your thing but you’d like to help in other ways then you could always join our parents and friends committee who help with fundraisers and general logistics throughout the year or become an associate member and offer help that way. Looking forward to when we will be starting the adventure again.

DURROW COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Durrow Community Council are holding a hamper draw to raise funds to cover the cost of the Large Christmas Tree in the green and also for the Senior Citizens Party. There are seven lovely prizes including a super hamper as first prize. The prizes are on display in the Post Office and the tickets are on sale at just €2 each or three for €5. So, if you are asked to buy a ticket, please don’t hesitate, you will be helping two great events in the Durrow calendar! The draw is scheduled to take place on November 28th 2021. Best of luck to all ticket holders and thank you for your support.

TIDY TOWNS COMPETITION 2021: Durrow Tidy Towns gained an extra six points in this year’s annual competition which was judged online. We wish to take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful team of helpers over the past two years, the committee, our Team Tidy Towns Volunteers, the Durrow CES Scheme, Durrow Development Forum, The Lions, The Harps, Third Laois Durrow Scouts, Laois Kayak & Canoe Club, Our Lady’s Meadow Primary School, Fishing Club, Dunnes Nurseries, Dunmore Country School, Lawlors, and all businesses and residents for their support. We’d also like to give a special thanks also to our youth volunteers who did amazing work especially at the Community Playground and also to Laois County Council for their continued support. We continue to work in the background and will look forward to an onsite judging next year as the huge amount of work done these past two years might reflect better than online.

SPONSOR A BAG OF BULBS AS A CHRISTMAS GIFT: Be it for a family member, a friend or in remembrance of a loved one. Durrow Tidy Towns will be at the Christmas Market in Durrow on Sunday 28th November from 11.30am until 5.30pm and will be selling our Bag of Flower Bulbs Gift Voucher which is presented in a card with an envelope ready to be gifted or posted. Bags of Flower Bulbs cost €25 and this would make a great Christmas gift for family, friends or to remember a loved one. Thank you as always for keeping Durrow looking beautiful.

DURROW CHRISTMAS MARKET 2021: Making Spirits Bright Christmas Market on Sunday 28th November from 11.30am to 5.30pm on the main village green. Some of our wonderful Artisan Food and Craft traders will be with us and we will have live music too, including Christmas Carols with Third Laois Durrow Scouts and official switch on of Christmas lights at 5.00pm. This is an outdoor only event and all Covid-19 guidelines will be followed for everyone’s safety.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2021: A huge thanks is extended to Durrow Community Services CLG for their work in putting up the Christmas lights in preparation for the Making Spirits Bright Christmas Market event in Durrow on Sunday 28th November. There’s a lot of hard background work that people don’t even see and it’s important that we acknowledge their help. It’s so much appreciated! 

REPLACEMENT DEFIBRILLATOR: Durrow Development Forum has recently replaced the Defibrillator in The Square. It’s located on the wall at Lawlors GALA Store. We would like to especially thank The White Lady Drama Group for a very generous donation towards this and to Durrow Fire & Rescue for their recommendations on which Defibrillator to use and to Justin Brophy for installing the unit – a great all round community effort.

DURROW.IE WEBSITE: We are delighted to announce three new members to our team of volunteers who will be involved in updating our community website. The expansion of the team means that more news, sports and notices content will be posted regularly for visitors to the site. AdrianS, DeeC and SiobhanS kindly responded to the recent online appeal for more volunteers and we are very grateful to having them on board with us. Do visit the website at www.durrow.ie and see their articles. If anyone else who feels they would like to join the team and help out, please drop us an email to info@durrow.ie for further information. 

OUR LADY’S MEADOW PRIMARY SCHOOL: Our Lady’s Meadow Primary School commenced accepting applications for admission to Junior Infants for the School Year 2022-2023 on Monday 15th November last. The school’s admission policy, Annual admission notice and application forms are available on school website www.ourladysmeadow.org or from the school by phone on (057) 8736329 or by email to ourladysmeadowschool@gmail.com. Application for the school ASD class can also be made since Monday November 15th last.

CULLOHILL COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS: Cullohill Community Centre held their AGM and are currently working towards activities getting back up and running. Pilates, Irish Dancing and ‘Hip Hop’ classes are just some of the classes currently running. Handball Nursery takes place at the moment on Sunday mornings with a great response there. A squash league is also planned with this being led by committee members Chris Dalton and Kevin Maher. The committee would like to thank households in the area for their recent response to the request for membership. Once again there has been great support with all funding continually channelled to maintain and upgrade the facility. 

CONGRATULATIONS: Congratulations to Avril Deegan who was the Island of Ireland regional winner of the Global Undergraduate Awards and came second overall in the Psychology category of the Global Undergraduate Awards for her thesis “A Way of Life – An investigation into the relationship between social support, stress and psychological well-being in Irish farmers”. Avril continues her studies at DCU where she is currently undertaking a PhD in Psychology.

Congratulations: Congratulations to Mrs Katie Stapleton, Kyle, Durrow on reaching her One Hundredth Birthday on Thursday 17th November last. The family celebrated the day with Mass at home followed by a family gathering abiding with HSE Guidelines. Everyone in her area and beyond wish Katie a very happy birthday and many more years of good health.

CHURCH NEWS: Memorial Mass: A big thank you to everyone who helped to make the Memorial Mass on November 12th last so worthwhile especially to Fr. Martin, Sr. Anita, Darina, the Choir, Fr. Tom McGree and Fr. O Doherty. The mass was a very special time for many families who lost a relative since March 2020.

Church: With Covid19 numbers very high once more, everyone who goes to Church Masses are asked to observe Social Distancing guidelines, use hand sanitizers; Wear a face covering and Stay Safe. It is in all of our interests that we continue to observe these guidelines and recommendations.

Mass Schedule: The following Mass schedule has been set up and is now effective: Saturday Vigil Mass Cullahill: 7.00pm, Durrow 7.30pm, Errill 8.30pm. Sunday Mass: Rathdowney; 10.30am, Durrow 12 noon.

Parish Office: The new Parish Office is now open at the Presentation Centre beside the Church or call (085) 2625033. Opening hours for this office will be from 10am to 2pm Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The booking of Masses, Christenings of babies, sale of Mass Cards, booking of weddings and funeral arrangements will go through this office. All matters relating to church business in the parish must also go through this office.

NUMBER FOR ST. VINCENT DE PAUL – UPDATED JULY 2021: Our new contact phone number for confidential assistance is (087) 6974792.

SYMPATHY: Sincere Condolences are extended to the Prendergast and Kenna Families on the recent death of Carmel Prendergast, Kilsby, UK (formerly Swan Rd, Durrow).

SYMPATHY is extended to the family and friends of Jill Cooney, Erkindale, Durrow on their recent bereavement.

DURROW FIRE AND RESCUE: Do you need a smoke alarm? Or do you know of someone who does, in the Durrow, Cullohill or Ballacolla area? Every home should have a minimum of two of the life saving devices! Durrow Fire & Rescue will provide and install smoke alarms for anyone that needs them, and there is no charge for this service. Simply email info@durrow.ie if you are interested, or if you know of a friend or neighbour that needs to have the devices installed. Please leave a contact number too.

SINGING LESSONS: Whether you want to learn how to sing or develop your existing skills – Amy offers one-to-one tuition or group tuition for families for everyone aged 9 or over. Learn vocal techniques, breathing exercises, control, performance and delivery. For more information, please contact Amy (083) 8253665 by phone or to amyphelan65@gmail.com by email. You can also reach Amy’s Social Media page by visiting facebook.com/amyphelansinger online.

LAOIS ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY: For more information on Alzheimer’s contact Ann Munnelly on (057) 8663398 or (086) 8372168 Homecare Co-ordinator, Portlaoise or to laois.branch@alzheimer.ie by email.

LEAF MOULD WORKSHOP – DURROW: We are looking forward to hosting Donal from Wastedown in this workshop highlighting Composting and Leaf moulding. This event is funded by the Department of Agriculture. “Making leaf mould is a simple process, just requiring space and a little bit of management. After 6 months to 1 year, you will have a valuable mulch. After 2 years, you will have a fully composted product that can be used as a growing medium for plants, as part of a seed or potting mix, or for propagating seeds in a tree nursery”

The workshop will be held on Saturday 27th November at 10am in the Harps overflow car park, this is the car park on the Ballacolla Road, on the left directly after the Harps GAA pitch as you leave Durrow or on the right, directly before coming into Durrow from Ballacolla. There is a signpost to assist. This is a free workshop and all are welcome to attend. Register at slinacoille.ie/events/leaf-mould-workshop-durrow online ahead of the event.

DURROW LIBRARY NEWS: Durrow Library is currently open for browsing, borrowing, printing and photocopying. We have received an excellent selection of new books which you are welcome to borrow. We are currently running a small treasure hunt event. To take part, families can collect a Durrow Discovery Map at the Library, answer the associated questions and when complete return the Map to Durrow Library to receive a small prize. Membership is free. Opening hours are Tuesdays 11am until 7.30pm and also Wednesdays 10am until 5.30pm (closed for lunch 1.30pm to 2pm). Phone: (057) 8736090 or you can contact durrowlibrary@laoiscoco.ie by email.

ST. CANICE’S CREDIT UNION DURROW: St. Canice’s Credit Union is located on Mary Street in Durrow. It provides a range of services including Current Accounts, globally accepted Debit Cards, Loans including Mortgages and Agri, Online Banking Services and a Mobile App. Contact Mary, Catherine or Breda. Opening Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm also Fridays from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. Visit our website at www.stcanicescu.ie online. Phone: (056) 7722042 (available six days – Monday to Saturday) or (057) 8736522. Email: info@stcanicescu.ie (also available six days – Monday to Saturday).

DURROW FIRE AND RESCUE: Do you need a smoke alarm? Or do you know of someone who does, in the Durrow, Cullohill or Ballacolla area? Every home should have a minimum of two of the life saving devices! Durrow Fire & Rescue will provide and install smoke alarms for anyone that needs them, and there is no charge for this service. Simply email info@durrow.ie if you are interested, or if you know of a friend or neighbour that needs to have the devices installed. Please leave a contact number too.

DURROW COMMUNITY ALERT: With the long winter nights now here, people are asked to keep an eye on their elderly neighbours daily. Check that they have enough fuel to keep warm, enough food to last a number of days, that they are healthy and not in need of medical attention. Check visitors and report strange movement of people and cars to your local community alert and to the Gardaí.

PILATES CLASSES: Pilates Classes continue in Cullohill Community Centre and will continue every Tuesday from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. All welcome, do come along and enjoy yourself!

IRISH DANCING CLASSES: Scoil Rince Katrina practises Traditional Irish Dancing for all ages in a fun-filled environment. Benefits are numerous as it helps children to engage in their coordination, improves posture, helps them learn about timing and rhythm and encourages teamwork. Our main focus is to try to bring out the best in every individual and improve their confidence. There are regular competitions if dancers choose to take part. Book now to secure your place. Contact Katrina on 085 7606866. Classes take place in Durrow Community Hall on Monday evenings.

THE HARPS GAA SPLIT THE POT: We encourage club members, parents and supporters to sign up for a standing order for the weekly split the bucket draw. Just €8 a month gives one entry a week, €16 a month gives two entries a week and €20 a month gives three entries a week. For standing order details contact Joe Deegan, (087) 9678729, Brian Farrell, (087) 9555500, or Shane Brophy, (087) 2034035. There is a lot of expenditure at present in improving the pitches and grounds in Cullahill and Durrow and all support is gratefully appreciated.

LIONS AFC LADIES’ SOCCER: Women’s social soccer on every Monday from 7pm until 8pm at the Lions AFC all weather pitch. All abilities welcome. Contact Sinead at (087) 9510587 for further details.

LIVE LOCAL WEATHER: Visit www.laoisweather.com for live local weather data from Durrow.

THE HARPS GAA CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The Harps GAA will hold their AGM on Sunday 21st November at 5pm in Cullohill Community Centre. Nominations and motions for consideration should be emailed to secretary.theharps.laois@gaa.ie as soon as possible. All are most welcome to attend.

The Juvenile Club will also host their AGM this Friday night, 19th November at 8pm in Cullohill Community Centre. All are most welcome to attend:

Please note: Strict adherence to HSE issued Covid-19 Guidelines will be enforced. All attendees are required to wear face coverings and use provided hand sanitizers. 

ODIN KETTLEBELL CLUB: Kids Classes 6pm Tuesdays and Fridays; Adults Classes 7pm Tuesdays and Fridays. Learn how to use a kettlebell effectively while burning up to 1000 (yes 1000) calories per class. An overall body workout that will make you stronger while burning excess fat. Kettlebell fitness also improves mobility and flexibility. All fitness levels and ages are welcome. Small class sizes and all covid guidelines adhered to. Personalised programmes for those who wish to compete. Odin Kettlebell Club is affiliated to The Association of Kettlebell Sport Ireland and operates under the guidelines of the World Kettlebell Sport Federation. For further information or to book your place phone (089) 4400758.

LIONS AFC DURROW NEWS: The club’s academy kicked off on Sunday, October 31st. What a wonderful start to our 2021/22 Academy, on a glorious sunny morning on the brand new astro in Durrow. Brilliant to see so many happy kids with smiles on their faces. Stars for the future in the making. Thanks to all the coaches for their fantastic input. The academy will be run over an 8 week block up until Christmas and a further 8 weeks after Christmas. See you all again next Sunday at 10am for more fun & enjoyment. New members are always welcome.

Girls visit Spa: Our under 9 girls had another great game recently against a very strong team in Spa Utd. in Johnstown. The girls put in a sterling performance in what was a challenging but enjoyable game with a brilliant display of football from both teams, there was great skill, saves defending and lots of goals on display once again. All the hard work in training and at home is showing through in their performances of late. Well done girls!

Cahill the General Leads Lions to Victory: Lions AFC 2 v Callan United 1 (U19 League Division 1, 30th October) Lions u19s continued their winning run this season with a 2-1 win over a gallant Callan side. The first half was closely fought with chances on both sides however it remained nil all at the break. A big turning point came 10 minutes into the second half when Willie Cahill was in on goal and was brought down by the last defender, which prompted the referee to brandish a red card for the Callan side. The Lions slowly turned the screw and scored 10 minutes later through Cahill who finished low into the corner off his right foot. Lions nearly made it

two nil when Artie McDonald went close soon after but was denied by good defending. Similar to EastEnders, the drama was packed in at the end. In injury time Callan fired past the solid Eoghan Whelan, after a great move down the right. Callan’s tails were up and after scoring they picked the ball from the net and sprinted back for the tip off looking for the winner. However, that winner came for the Lions, again from the impressive Cahill, this time with his left foot. Cahill finished calmly past the keeper to give Lions a 2-1 win at the stroke of full time.

DURROW COMMUNITY SATURDAY MARKET: Durrow Community Market continues on Saturdays from 9am to 12 noon on the Kilkenny Road beside the church. Social Distancing will be in practice and please adhere to the Covid-19 guidelines!

BOOK BOX: A Book Box is now operational in the Scout Garden. Please feel free to take a book or leave a book. Please ensure that the lid is replaced properly after each use. Enjoy!

DURROW POST OFFICE: Santa Letters and Colouring Competition Sheets are now available in the Post Office. Also, check out our special mailbox for all your completed Santa Letters with a guaranteed speedy delivery in time for Christmas!

JOB VACANCIES: We currently have two vacancies on Durrow Community Employment Scheme: 

Position: 2 x Environmental Workers; Location: Durrow and Ballacolla; No Experience Required; Work 19.5 hours per week. Eligibility to participate in CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups. Your eligibility will have to be verified by the Department. Contact Durrow Community Services on (057) 8736870 for more details.

YARD HELPER WANTED: Groom / Yard Help Wanted – Part Time vacancy: Private, friendly and reputable yard requires help with day-to-day yard duties. We have a mixture of; broodmares, youngsters, and ridden horses. Weekend work is required, location, between Durrow and Abbeyleix. You must be over 18 and have experience with horses. Message or phone Lindsay 0833913222. We’ll be pleased to hear from you.

CLEANER AVAILABLE: Mondays to Fridays for the Durrow, Cullohill and Johnstown areas. Flexible hours. Call (085) 8166820.

NEXT NEWSLETTER: The next newsletter will be out on the weekend of December 4th 2021. All adverts must be booked with Angela Drennan (087) 1928522 or (057) 8736419. Advertisements cost €2 per issue of Durrow Parish Newsletter and must be paid for in advance. Clubs and Organisations are encouraged to email info@durrow.iewith their ongoing news and notices which will be printed in the upcoming newsletter and also be posted on the Durrow.ie website.