St. Vincent de Paul help for First Communion
Families that may still need assistance with this year’s First Communion expenses are asked to contact any member of the Fethard St. Vincent de Paul committee as soon as possible or Denis Burke at (052) 6131852.

Pat's Tavern' by Thomas J. Crane

Click on the image above or HERE to read 'Pat's Tavern' by Thomas J. Crane online. 'Pat's Tavern' is a mythical gathering place spun from stories and poems of my real life experiences living in Chicago’s Woodlawn neighborhood during times past. Also where stories and poems can be read that stir the soul as well as the imagination.

Thomas J. Crean previously wrote 'Green is the Valley, Blue are the Hills', and published it on the Fethard Website in 2005. The book revolves around the author’s search for, but not limited to, his Crane and March families history. As well as the details of the author’s travels taken to unravel the mystery of his ancestors, this account includes pictures and poems that are used to highlight the text, but stand on their own merit. In addition to the search for the past, any reader will find some of life’s treasures that exist in human and spiritual values. Both books can also be downloaded free of charge from this Fethard Website by CLICKING HERE for details.

Pub Quiz in Butlers this Friday
A Pub Quiz will be held tomorrow night, Friday, May 1, in Butler's Bar in Fethard at 9.30 in aid of the Irish Heart Foundation's Climb Kilimanjaro Challenge 2015. Marion O'Grady will be doing the climb on August 1, and has a target of €5,000 to raise. Your support for this quiz would be very much appreciated.

Lucky Escape in Nepal

Arron Conran and his girlfriend Alex Murphy

When news of the massive earthquake in Nepal broke on Saturday last, family members and friends of Arron Conran (Fethard) and his girlfriend Alex Murphy (Dublin), were very concerned as the hours passed and no contact was received. Arron and Alex were on day-six of an eighteen-day trekking holiday in the Annapurna Circuit near Kathmandu, the same area as the epicentre of this earthquake. Allowing for the breakdown and disruption of the power and communication system following the earthquake, the only recourse was to contact the emergency line that was set up for families of missing people – then sit back and wait for news.


After many agonising hours, contact was finally received when Alex managed to contact her father in Dublin and passed on the welcome news that they were safe and staying in the Manang area of Nepal. With great relief felt by family and friends we can only pray for a safe journey home for both as soon as possible, and offer our deep sympathy to all the casualties of this terrible natural disaster that, at time of writing, has reached a count of over 4,000 deaths and 6,000 injured.

Fethard Festival possibilities need to be discussed
With a new provisional date of Sunday, June 14, 2015, set for this year’s Fethard Festival, now put back a week so as not to clash with Tipperary playing in the Senior Hurling Championship on June 21, the other practical issues of running the event will also need to be discussed and alternative arrangements made for many events. The main concern is the date is coinciding with the proposed closure of the roads while the current and necessary water mains and sewage renovations are taking place in town. Another concern is the Fethard Historical Society will not be participating in the organising of the main medieval event this year and the annual funding received from the Irish Walled Towns Network will not be available.

Taking these facts into consideration it will be necessary to organise an alternative event this year and any volunteers willing to help organise and participate in the running of the festival are requested to contact any member of the Fethard Business and Tourism Group or contact the community office at (052) 6131000 as soon as possible. A meeting with those interested will be arranged.

Road Water Works not all bad

One of the high-tech water pipe laying machines being used this week on Fethard Main Street water mains renovations.

While residents are experiencing some inconvenience with the on-going current road works on Main Street, many have commented on the neatness and efficiency of the work force. The installation of the new water mains pipes is taking place at a very steady pace and their work site is kept immaculately tidy and secure with as little as possible interference with the public.

With the new hi-tech machinery and materials being used we can also look forward to a very efficient and improved water supply to the town.

Fethard & Killusty Community Council AGM
Fethard & Killusty Community Council will hold their annual general meeting on Tuesday, May 19, at 8.30pm in the Tirry Community Centre, Barrack Street. We invite all interested in getting involved in community affairs to come along and participate in the Community Council or any of the various sub-committees: Fethard & District Day Care Centre, Fethard Tidy Towns, Fethard Business & Tourism Group, Fethard Convent Community Hall & Youth Centre, Fethard Playground, Community Text Alert and CCTV, or various other seasonal events.

We would especially like to thank all who support or weekly Community Lotto the proceeds of which all go towards developing and supporting community projects.

Proposed Grants for Fethard
Tipperary County Council recently advertised a call for application for grants for environmental work and cemetery maintenance. Arising from that, it is now proposed to allocate the grants in Fethard as follows: Cooleagh, Fethard €380; Kilmaclugh €380; Kiltinan €480; Peppardstown €410; Rathcoole €380; Red City €410; Tullamaine €380; and Fethard Tidy Towns Association €630.

Fethard & Killusty Community Council are most appreciative of the proposed allocations and appreciate the help towards the on-going maintenance work in the parish.

Well done Ross!

Congratulations to Ross McCormack (16), a member of Fethard RFC, who was recently called up to the Munster Clubs U18 panel, a fantastic achievement for this young player. Ross is captain of Fethard RFC U16 team who will contest the East Munster Cup Final this Sunday, May 3.


Fethard RFC U16 team, captained by Ross McCormack, who beat Waterford City RFC last weekend in the East Munster Cup semifinal on a scoreline of 55-12. They now go on to meet Waterpark RFC in the cup final to be played on Sunday, May 3, venue and time to be decided. Best of luck to all involved.

Lourdes Invalid Fund sponsored walk
A sponsored walk in aid of the local Lourdes Invalid Fund will take place in Fethard on Sunday, May 10, starting at 2.30pm from outside the Town Hall and commencing via Killenaule Road – Ballybough and returning by Rocklow Road to finish at the Town Hall. Those wishing to take part can obtain sponsorship cards at Kenny’s Centra Supermarket in Barrack’s Street. Your support is appreciated.

Strictly Come Dancing to Fethard on May 25!
The annual ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ event will take place again in Fethard Ballroom on Monday, May 25, this year. All proceeds are in aid of the Fethard Critically Ill Fund. We invite all to come along and enjoy the local children, aged 5 to 18, strut their stuff on the dance floor. Great night’s entertainment and fun guaranteed.

Family gathering

Members of the Sullivan family from Woodvale Walk, Fethard photographed with relatives from Scotland at a family gathering in Lonergan's Bar last weekend.

Charlie returns to Crocanoir
Renowned musician Charlie McGettigan makes a much-anticipated return to perform at Crocanoir on Saturday May 9. Charlie is one of the most popular performers to come to the end of the boreen. His songs stories and wonderful stage presence have endeared him to young and old alike. Tickets always sell quickly for the 'Rock n Roll Kid' so early booking is advised.

On Wednesday, May 20, Crocanoir welcomes actor Aonghus Og McAnally to Crocanoir for the first time. Aonghus is a grandson of legendary actors Ray McAnally and Laurie Morton and an outstanding performer in his own right. Tickets can be booked by contacting John at Tel: (052) 9153117 or 086 8907329. For more information visit: www.crocanoir.com

Social dancing at Fethard Ballroom
Dancing at Fethard Ballroom on this coming Sunday night, May 3, to the music of ‘Declan Aungier’. All welcome to come along and enjoy a great night’s entertainment and social dancing from 9pm to midnight. Admission is €8 which includes tea and cakes.

First Holy Communion
The sacrament of First Holy Communion will take place in Holy Trinity Parish Church, Fethard, on Saturday, May 9, at 11am. We congratulate and pray for all the boys and girls who will receive their First Holy Communion this year.

Students prepare for 'Challenge to Change'

Working on the Holy Trinity National School's Challenge to Change project are L to R: David O'Donnell, Haydyn Fleming, Jack Quinlan, Adam Tynan and Mark Neville. The project 'It is not our place", will go on display in Kilkenny on this Thursday, April 30.


Kacycie Aherne working on her model house for the Holy Trinity National School 'Challenge to Change' project.


L to R: Aine Connolly and Holly Hayes working on their 'Challenge to Change' project under the artistic direction of Ms Pat Looby

Fethard & Killusty Community Lotto
The numbers drawn on April 22 were: 7, 18, 21 and 26. We had no jackpot winner and one ‘Match Three’ winner who received €150: Rita Burke, Woodvale Walk, Fethard.

The three following ‘Lucky Dip’ winners received €50 each: Mary Healy, Cois Teallaigh, Fethard; Chrissie O'Meara (online ticket); and Johanna Bradshaw, Drumdeel, Fethard.

Next week’s draw takes place on Wednesday, April 29. The Jackpot is €3,550 and the Jackpot seller’s prize is €355. All proceeds go towards community work in Fethard, and we thank you for your on-going support.

Pre-Baptism meeting
The next Pre-Baptism meeting will take place in the Tirry Community Centre on Monday, May 25, at 7.30pm, for parents who wish to have their child baptised during the following weeks. Please contact FR. Tom Breen P.P. prior to attending. Tel: 052 6131178.

Fethard Athletic Club
Fethard Athletic Club continues to prepare for the 'Walls of Fethard' due to take place on Thursday, May 28, at 8pm. This ever-popular four-mile event will be a single circuit, fast, mainly flat course over a scenic rural route so a large crowd of runners and joggers is anticipated to attend.

Morning training over the 6k course has started at 6am so those early risers out there can meet up with the crew at the ballroom carpark and then run/ jog the race circuit.

Evening meet and train continues Mondays and Fridays at 7.15pm from the ballroom carpark, new members always welcome.

Yoga Classes
Yoga classes for beginners/intermediate will commence in the Tirry Centre, Barrack Street, on Monday, April 27, at 8pm. Yoga encourages overall health and wellness by improving flexibility, strengthening the body and reducing stress by practising relaxation techniques. Booking is essential as places are limited. For details contact Peg at: 086 3027927.

Afternoon tea at Clonacody House

Staff members at Fethard Patrician Presentation Secondary School enjoying afternoon tea at Clonacody House after their day's work. The teachers decided to take advantage of the good weather and relaxing ambience at Clonacody House, run by Helen Carrigan. Back L to R: Michael Leonard, John Cummins, Noel Maher, Gwen Cronin, Ian O'Connor, Pat Looby. Middle L to R: Catriona McKeogh, Deirdre Mulhall, Orla Barrett, Majella Whelan. Front L to R: Marie Maher, Helen Walsh and Megan Raggett.

Eucharistic Adoration
All are welcome to attend the weekly Eucharistic Adoration which takes place in Holy Trinity Parish Church on Fridays from 10.30am to 12.30pm and from 6pm to 9pm; and in the Augustinian Abbey on Thursdays from 11am to 12 noon. This is a great opportunity for a quiet time to listen and reflect with Jesus.

GAA Sports Lotto
Last week’s numbers drawn on April 24, were 2, 11, 24 and 25. There was no jackpot winner and no match three winner. Two tickets were drawn and the following won €25 each: Sparky, Main Street, Fethard; and Michael O'Meara, Garrinch. The €50 lucky dip winner was: Amy Quinn, c/o Merry’s, Clonmel.

Next week’s Jackpot is €10,400 and the draw will take place in Fethard GAA Park dressing rooms on Friday, April 24, at 7pm. Sellers Prize €210. All are welcome. Thank you for your continued support.

Pupils Learn about the European Union

Deirdre Clune MEP photographed with Holy Trinity National School's Student Council after being presented with a bouquet of flowers at the school in Fethard.

This year, pupils in Holy Trinity National School are taking part in the Blue Star Programme. The aim of this programme is to foster better knowledge and understanding of the European Union and how it affects our lives. Pupils are challenged to get creative and think about Europe by carrying out projects in relation to four key elements: the history, geography, culture and creativity, and Institutions of the European Union.

The Institutional element of the programme involved holding elections to our Student Council, which took place last October. Holy Trinity 5th and 6th classes also invited Mrs Deirdre Clune MEP, to visit the school. She spoke to the pupils about her work as an MEP and what a typical day may entail! She was extremely impressed by the children's interest in her work and the many interesting questions that they asked her. Mrs Clune explained the importance of the European Union for the member states, the advantages of being part of the Union and how it helps in our everyday lives.


Deirdre Clune MEP, photographed with Holy Trinity National School's 5th and 6th classes on her recent visit to the school in Fethard.

Pupils across the school are also learning a lot about the many historical aspects of Europe. 5th class have carried out projects on World War II and Anne Frank and 6th class have studied all about World War I and also Leonardo da Vinci. 3rd class have examined the languages of the EU and its flags and while 5th learned all about Italy, 6th class did an in-depth study of France.

From a cultural and creative point of view all classes have undertaken an art project based on countries, artists and landmarks of the EU. The children’s framed pictures will be exhibited on May 8 when the whole school will celebrate Europe Day and undertake the Handshake for Europe! Seán Kelly MEP, will also visit the school on the day to listen to songs, watch dances and taste some European food. It promises to be a special day in our school year!

Waterworks installation on Main Street
A 'Temporary Closing of Road' notice was proposed by Tipperary County Council regarding the 'Replacement of watermains and sewers on the R-689-4 (Main Street), Fethard, Co. Tipperary.'

• The R-689-4 (Main Street) road is to be closed from its junction with the R-292-4 (Cashel Road) to its junction with the L-2313-0 (Rocklow Road/Sparagoulea).
• The period of closure is from 6am on Monday, May 18, 2015, until 6pm on Saturday, June 27, 2015.
• Alternative routes are R-706-1 (The Valley), L-2313-0 (Watergate Street), R-692-5 (Burke Street) and R-689-4 (Main Street) and vice versa.

Fethard Faces and Places from the Past
The following are a selection of photographs recently added to the Fethard Faces and Places from the Past page on Facebook, also published here for the benefit of our readers who are not on Facebook. The Facebook page is used for sharing old Fethard photographs with other members of the group and is open to all interested in joining. Send any comments or photo information to fethardnews@gmail.com


Fethard Patrician Brothers 1st Year Boys Class in 1970. Back L to R: Roger Grant, Jimmy Harrison, John Godfrey, Michael Ryan, Tommy Meehan, Paddy Maher, Seamus Grant. Front L to R: Francis Murphy, Liam Cummins, Gerard ‘Bunty’ O’Connell, Michael Downes, Eddie McGrath, Pat Aylward and John Cooney.


St. Patrick's Boys School 6th Class 2005. Back L to R: Dean Sharpe, Ger Maher, Tony Myler, David Burke, Gavin Carroll, Gareth Lawrence, Jamie Walsh, Andrew Maher. Front L to R: Noel O'Brien, Ted Barrett, Brian Delahunty, Louis Rice, Michael Smyth and Gavin Lonergan. Missing from photograph is Tommy Veale.


Fethard Nano Nagle Primary School 6th Class 2005. Back L to R: Rachel Prout, Orla Lawrence, Stephanie Allen, Claire Morrissey, Rebecca O'Donnell, Jenny Pyke, Maryanne Fogarty, Edel O'Sullivan. Front L to R: Mary Jane Kearney, Louise O'Donnell, Amy Lyons, Jane Holohan, Faye Manton and Amanda Ryan.


Enjoying the Halloween celebrations in Fethard in 2005

Fethard & District Day Care Centre AGM
The Fethard & District Day Care Ltd. will hold their Annual General Meeting on Thursday, April 30, at 8.30pm in the Tirry Community Centre. All are welcome.

Fethard News
Items for inclusion on this website and on the weekly Fethard News page on The Nationalist can be emailed before noon on Mondays to news@fethard.com or delivered by hand to Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard.

Share this page on Facebook