THE 6TH ARDMORE PATTERN FESTIVAL has been hailed the best yet by festival goers as thousands flocked to the ancient seaside village in County Waterford this past weekend to enjoy over 80 free events in glorious sunshine.

Last Sunday 22nd July saw the start of what continued to be a hugely successful Festival with the Annual Antique Fair & Afternoon Tea being held in St Declan’s Hall, along with a tribute to writer Molly Keane by poet Thomas McCarthy.  Monday, the 23rd July saw Actress Gerry McLoughlin thred the boards in St Declan’s Hall with the internationally acclaimed play “Sisters” written by Declan Hassett and directed by Michael Twomey.  This was a very emotional event for Declan Hassett, a regular visitor to Ardmore as his play was acted out on the very site in the village where his father was born.

On Pattern Day, 24th July a number of events to celebrate the patron Saint of Ardmore, Declan, began with over 100 people walking along the ancient pilgrim path of St Declan’s Way from Grange to Ardmore which led to a dramatisation of the Arrival of St Declan to Ardmore on Ardmore Beach by locals who acted out the scene. The dramatisation continued into St Declan’s Church where Mass was celebrated by Fr Milo Guiry with guest speaker Fr Jim Griffin former curate of Ardmore & Grange.

John Kennedy play some golden oldies during Musical Delights from By-Gone Days, while Peter Brabazon from Kilkenny won the final of the “A Song for Ardmore” Song Contest with his song “The Pride of the Deise-Ardmore” against five other great contenders.

On Wednesday, 25th July, the Ardmore Tidy Towns host a Climate Change Awareness Expo which attracted a large audience seeking advice on how to save money by changing to environmentally friendly methods.  Annual favourite, Monster Bingo once again drew hoards of people, while Frankie Gavin & De Dannan filled St Declan’s Church with music to the rafters with Michelle Lally’s angelic voice soothing the soul.

On Thursday 26th July, Celebrity Chef, Kevin Dundon cooked up some delicious dishes during “Supper by the Sea” to a full house of mostly ladies.  On Friday, 27TH July it was all up in the air as the Official Opening of the 6th Ardmore Pattern Festival Weekend began with a Street Entertainment Bonanza with some daring aerobatic displays over the bay of Ardmore by aviator adventurer Gerry Humphries in his distinctive self-built VANs RV7 followed by The Counterfeit Blues Brothers from Northern Ireland live in concert.  Then it was back skywards as a spectacular show of Fireworks was set off to announce the official opening of the Festival which is built around the ancient tradition of celebrating the Pattern Day.

On Saturday, 28TH July hundreds of families scurried around the village in an effort to get through the myriad of events on offer for all the family.  The programme of events began at 8am for the early birds with with a Wildlife Walk to see the Birds of Ardmore and later a tour of the shore to discover the creatures & plants living there. Then it was on to Fun Road Bowling, Pottery & Painting Demonstration, Arts & Crafts with the Kids with special guest Don Conroy, Star-Gazing & Guided Tours.  For the more adventurous Zorbing on the sea proved to be great fun !

Journalist & Author, Joe Duffy spoke on his autobiography followed by a book-signing as did GAA Pundit Michael Duignan & local man Tommy Mooney. The Teddy Bear’s Picnic was a joy for all the toddlers as the waddled around enjoying the puppet show and entertainment. Guided Tours of Ardmore Coast Guard Station & Fire Station attracted large crowds curious to see how these vital services operate within the community, live music on the Festival Stage entertained the crowds all weekend.  Saturday, 28th July concluded with ASLAN Live in Concert to thousands of people who revelled as Christy Dignam & the band rocked Ardmore, the good-spirited and uplifting atmosphere was amazing !

On Sunday, 29th July the pace was more relaxed as worn out from an eight day action-packed programme thousands ambled along to chosen events, nature trails, guided tours, art & craft classes, displays, fancy dress & farmers market was the order of the day.  While on the water the sea was charged with the Thundercats revving their engines for a full round of the National Championships.  Bestselling biographer & journalist Anthony Summers spoke on the pivotal stories of the past hundred years that he has written about.  Hundreds danced the evening away to the lilting strains of the Kilfenora Céili Band for the Finale Extravaganza as the sun set over the beautiful bay of Ardmore & the 6th Ardmore Pattern Festival.

 

U10GFL Eochaill 3-4 Aghada 4-4
Our U10s travelled to Rostellan to take on the local hosts Aghada on a sunny Friday evening with conditions perfect for football. In front of a big enthusiastic crowd of families and friends both sides gave a brilliant exhibition of football over the 2 halves. In a tight game throughout with each side complimenting each other’s scores mistakes were to the prove the difference between the sides. 2 goals in the first half gave the Youghal girls a slight lead of 2-2 to 1-4. The second half proved to be a tight affair with both teams going all out for a win. At the final whistle Aghada won by a goal much to the bitter disappointment of the Youghal girls who could not be faulted on the night. Best for Youghal were Niamh Flavin, Hannah O’Keffee and Sarah O’Sullivan.

In our next U10FL Youghal beat a much younger Carrigtwohill team in Magners Hill to leave them with 2 wins out of 5 in the league. On the night Youghal were best served by Sorcha Connolly, Chloe O’Connell, Abby Goggin and Ciara Kiely.

U8GFL
Our U8s have got off to a great start in their league winning both games. Next up is near neighbours Inch Rovers.

U14 Girls
In preparation for our upcoming championship our U14s took on Erins Own and St. Colmans of Shanagarry in Magners Hill. The more established Erins Own team easily accounted for the Youghal girls with their greater scoring treat the difference while the St. Colman’s game was very entertaining with only a goal seperating the teams 6-7 to 5-7 to the vistitors.

Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others
Training continues every Monday Night at 7:30pm in Magners Hill. No previous experience required, all welcome.

THE FIRST PHASE of a mobility-disabled access boardwalk running from Youghal Front Strand to Claycastle, (395 metres) delivered in partnership with Youghal Town Council and Failte Ireland was officially opened by Minister of State at the Department of Tourism & Sport on Tuesday 24th July 2012.  The boardwalk consists of hardwood timber deck supported on piled foundations, not requiring a railing, and once complete will span 1926 metres, eventually forming part of the National Coastal Walking Route.  The Minister also took the opportunity to officially ‘turn on’ the new 75kw wind turbine at Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ring paid tribute to the vision of Youghal Town Council and its determination to undertake and complete such projects. “When I was here this time last year, I was hugely impressed with not only Youghal’s tourism offering, but the will and determination of the Council and the local community to see this town grow and succeed.  It is wonderful to see plans that were presented to me followed through and executed in full.  With over 180,000 people working  nationally in tourism, this sector is hugely significant in terms of growth in the economy and Youghal is certainly setting about playing its part in getting this country working again”, said the Minister.  The second phase of the development would see the completion of the link between Claycastle and Redbarn to the Quality Hotel and Self Catering Apartments.  The Minister agreed to review the submission to Failte Ireland, agreeing that the project would be of huge benefit to the local economy if completed in full.

Mayor of Youghal, Cllr Michelle Hennessy suggested it shouldn’t be underestimated just what the boardwalk had done for the people of Youghal.  “Not only has it become a major tourist attraction, but it has become a major social gathering for the people of the area, and has brought a new life and vibrancy to this area of the town.  The quality of the boardwalk is evident; – it consists of 395 metres of hardwood timber deck and again is wheelchair accessible.  The Mayor emphasised how important the delivery of Phase Two of the project, saying: “This will have a huge economic impact on the town once complete. The delivery of this Boardwalk shows the commitment of Youghal Town Council to improving the tourism infrastructure of the Town, in partnership with Failte Ireland and is a further step forward in maximising the potential of our natural tourism assets for the economic benefit of business in Youghal” said the Mayor.

In advance of the official opening of the Eco-Boardwalk, the Minister also commended Youghal Town Council in their efforts in securing a €400,000 grant under the Improved Energy and Enhanced Disabled Grant Scheme for Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.  The upgrade works have enabled huge energy savings – including up to a 40% saving in electricity to the Centre from the installation of a 75kw wind turbine.  Currently employing 39 staff, the grant has also facilitated an extension to the existing facility for the disabled, with the addition of a new changing area, a major upgrade of the turnstile system and automatic doors to changing areas.  All of the works completed at the centre serve to enhance the centre’s reputation as both a community resource and first class tourism facility.  Referring to Youghal’s Aura Leisure Centre, the Minister commented:

“This is a hugely substantial amount of money to be granted in this current economic climate and it can only have a positive effect on employment in the town, helping to sustain jobs and hopefully create new ones too.” Said the Minister.

Two short video clips of The Diving Rocks at Youghal Lighthouse back in 2006 and 2002. Some people in the video are Mikey Joyce who was once a lifeguard in Youghal back in 1949 ( which took in the beginning of the ‘Prom’ on the front strand all the way out to Redbarn Beach which he singularly guarded!) – also Derry O’Sullivan, late of the Anchor Bar, Youghal, Liam Carroll, Eamon O’Halloran, Vincie Carroll, Bill Field, Joe O’Dea. Filmed by Liam Burke at The Diving Rocks, Youghal Lighthouse, Co Cork, Ireland.

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THE YOUGHAL RNLI LIFEBOAT will host their annual open day on SUNDAY 5TH AUGUST 2012 from 11am to 5pm. Fun for all the family with face painting and music with Barty’s Disco Roadshow. Blessings of the boats at 12 midday and laying of a wreath for those who have died at sea. All boat owners invited to come along and have their boats blessed. The Lifeboat station and the Atlantic 75 class lifeboat will be open to the public and our voluntary lifeboat crew members will be on hand to show the public around and answer any questions.

Youghal has been running a lifeboat station since 1839 and is still funded by voluntary contributions. A great day of festivities is promised on the day.  Lifeboat souvenirs will also be available at the event. We look forward to meeting you on the day.

Declan O’Rourke performs live this Friday 27th July at St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal

AFTER a very memorable and successful series of concerts in 2009 & 2010 to help support Youth music projects ,The Sacred Roots Project based in Youghal are back with the support of Yew wood  Youghal’s Premiere Venues and the Arts Council to welcome the return of the very charismatic Declan O’Rourke to play in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s 12th Century Church Youghal on Friday July 27th as part of his nationwide tour to promote his new album MAG PAI ZAI .
Young Local musician Leo Mullane will support Declan on the night. Doors are at 8.30 , tickets are €20 and available at Scotts treasure Shop 137 North Main Street Youghal phone 024 90333 / 087 9957 102 for information. Its an all ages event under 16?s are free strictly no alcohol.

FETAC Level 4 in Community Radio.

Do you want to gain skills in Community Media , radio programme production and Interviewing and Research Skills . Then a Fetac Level 4 in Community Radio may be what you’re looking for.

This course is particularly suitable for those people who are looking to Return to Education, Upskill or Enhance their CV and will be offered free of charge to those who meet the eligibility criteria.
This FETAC course allows the learner to gain skills in Community Media , radio programme production and Interviewing and Research Skills while also offering a  grounding in both the ethos of Community radio and in the practical skills . By the end of the course learners will understand the basic principles of Community Radio, Understand the basics of Interviewing and Research. Be Capable of recording an interview safely. Be able to define libel and other key legal concepts

This course is a Nationally accredited course leading to a FETAC Level 4 in Community Radio (Component Certificate) on the National Framework of Qualifications.

The course begins on Tuesday the 7th of August 2012 from 2-5pm which  covers 30 Class contact hours including supported assessment .

For more information call CRY104fm on 024 91199/92288 or email programmes@youghalradio.com

THE FIRST PHASE of a mobility-disabled access boardwalk running from Youghal Front Strand to Claycastle, (395M) delivered in partnership with Youghal Town Council and Failte Ireland was officially opened by Minister of State at the Department of Tourism & Sport on Tuesday 24th July 2012.  The boardwalk consists of hardwood timber deck supported on piled foundations, not requiring a railing, and once complete will span 1926 metres, eventually forming part of the National Coastal Walking Route.  The Minister also took the opportunity to officially ‘turn on’ the new 75kw wind turbine at Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ring paid tribute to the vision of Youghal Town Council and its determination to undertake and complete such projects. “When I was here this time last year, I was hugely impressed with not only Youghal’s tourism offering, but the will and determination of the Council and the local community to see this town grow and succeed.  It is wonderful to see plans that were presented to me followed through and executed in full.  With over 180,000 people working  nationally in tourism, this sector is hugely significant in terms of growth in the economy and Youghal is certainly setting about playing its part in getting this country working again”, said the Minister.  The second phase of the development would see the completion of the link between Claycastle and Redbarn to the Quality Hotel and Self Catering Apartments.  The Minister agreed to review the submission to Failte Ireland, agreeing that the project would be of huge benefit to the local economy if completed in full.

Mayor of Youghal, Cllr Michelle Hennessy suggested it shouldn’t be underestimated just what the boardwalk had done for the people of Youghal.  “Not only has it become a major tourist attraction, but it has become a major social gathering for the people of the area, and has brought a new life and vibrancy to this area of the town.  The quality of the boardwalk is evident; – it consists of 395 metres of hardwood timber deck and again is wheelchair accessible.  The Mayor emphasised how important the delivery of Phase Two of the project, saying: “This will have a huge economic impact on the town once complete. The delivery of this Boardwalk shows the commitment of Youghal Town Council to improving the tourism infrastructure of the Town, in partnership with Failte Ireland and is a further step forward in maximising the potential of our natural tourism assets for the economic benefit of business in Youghal” said the Mayor.

In advance of the official opening of the Eco-Boardwalk, the Minister also commended Youghal Town Council in their efforts in securing a €400,000 grant under the Improved Energy and Enhanced Disabled Grant Scheme for Youghal Aura Leisure Centre.  The upgrade works have enabled huge energy savings – including up to a 40% saving in electricity to the Centre from the installation of a 75kw wind turbine.  Currently employing 39 staff, the grant has also facilitated an extension to the existing facility for the disabled, with the addition of a new changing area, a major upgrade of the turnstile system and automatic doors to changing areas.  All of the works completed at the centre serve to enhance the centre’s reputation as both a community resource and first class tourism facility.  Referring to Youghal’s Aura Leisure Centre, the Minister commented:

“This is a hugely substantial amount of money to be granted in this current economic climate and it can only have a positive effect on employment in the town, helping to sustain jobs and hopefully create new ones too.” Said the Minister.

Click here to enlarge image

On this day 24th July 1982 The Rolling Stones were the first international act to headline at the Slane Castle venue. The sloping grounds of Slane Castle formed a natural amphitheatre for the rock fans who came from all corners of Ireland and beyond to see the legendary group. As many 100,000 people attended the event. The admission fee was £12. Headlined by the Rolling Stones with support acts The J. Geils Band, The Chieftains and George Thorogood and the Destroyers.

1982 SETLIST
Under My Thumb
When the Whip Comes Down
Let’s Spend the Night Together
Shattered
Neighbours
Black Limousine
Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)
(The Temptations cover)
Twenty Flight Rock
(Eddie Cochran cover)
Going to a Go-Go
Let Me Go
Time is on My Side
Beast of Burden
You Can’t Always Get What You Want
Little T&A
Angie
Tumbling Dice
She’s So Cold
Hang Fire
Miss You
Honky Tonk Women
Brown Sugar
Start Me Up
Jumpin’ Jack Flash
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction

Stars of the Sea Dance and Drama Camp will be held on July 23rd to July 27th at Youghal Community Centre, there will be dancing, drama, games, improvisation and mime. The camp caters for ages 5yrs-16yrs. To book a place contact Sinead on 086 1553124 price €12 per morning from 10am to 1pm, with two qualified dance and drama teachers.

More info click here http://danceanddramacamp.com/