County U23 & Masters Cross Country Championships Jack Davey on his way to be crowned U23 champion.
Fethard AC hosted the County U23 & Masters Cross Country Championships last Sunday at Rice’s Farm, Brookhill, and it proved to be a hugely successful and memorable day for the club. Competing on a challenging, true cross-country course, Fethard AC athletes delivered outstanding performances across all categories. With multiple individual and team podium finishes, the highlight of the day was being crowned 2025 Best XC Team, proudly taking home the Josie Garrett Cup for the second year running—a fitting reward for the dedication, consistency, and participation shown throughout the season.
Jack Davey produced a superb run to claim the U23 County title, finishing in 33:29. Jack showed strength and composure throughout the demanding course, pulling clear of the field to secure a well-deserved gold medal and lead the U23 men with distinction.
Fethard Athletic Club members photographed after receiving the Josie Garrett Cup for the second year running — a fitting reward for the dedication, consistency, and participation shown throughout the season.
Fintan Rice once again demonstrated his class with an exceptional performance, finishing 3rd overall and taking 1st place in the O60 category in a time of 30:10. His result was a key factor in multiple team successes on the day. James Maher ran strongly to secure 2nd place in the O45 category, crossing the line in 30:50, contributing significantly to the O35 team victory. Michael Power back from injury, claiming 1st place in the O35 category with a solid run of 31:00, adding another individual title to the club’s tally. Aidan O’Brien followed closely, finishing 2nd O35 in 34:06, rounding out a dominant O35 team performance. James Denn put in a determined effort to finish in 35:24, handling the tough terrain well. Neilie Hall ran consistently throughout to finish in 37:40, later playing a vital role in the O50 team result. John Hurley completed the 7km course in 37:47, contributing to the club’s team success and showing great grit on demanding ground.
The Men’s O35 team of Fintan Rice, James Maher, Michael Power, and Aidan O’Brien claimed 1st place, while the Men’s O50 team of Fintan Rice, Neilie Hall, and John Hurley secured an excellent 2nd place.
Matty Fleming delivered a standout performance in the Men’s O65 race, taking 1st place in a time of 21:04. His run was controlled and confident, earning him a deserved county title. Mike Croome-Carroll put in a strong and determined performance in the Men’s O70 category, finishing 3rd place with a time of 27:58. His effort added yet another individual podium finish to Fethard AC’s impressive medal haul on the day.
Carol Molloy led the women’s field with an outstanding run, finishing 3rd overall and claiming 1st place O35 in 17:50, setting the standard for the Fethard AC women. Jessica Kennedy followed with a strong performance, finishing 6th overall and 2nd O35 in 18:08, contributing to team success. Tanya O’Brien ran well to finish in 19:56, completing the O35 team podium. Paula Hendriksen put in a solid run to finish in 20:50, later helping secure a team bronze in the O45 category. Áine Doocey showed great determination, finishing in 21:28 and taking 3rd place O50. Marie Carroll crossed the line in 21:45, maintaining a strong and steady pace throughout. Oonagh Burke finished in 22:16, contributing to the women’s O45 team podium. Theresa Coffey ran consistently to finish in 23:07, closely followed by Deirdre Royce in 23:17. Lisa Williams completed the course in 23:30, showing strong endurance. Isobel Minogue finished in 23:47, earning 3rd place O55 with a fine performance. Siobhán Maher ran well to finish in 25:21, while Teresa Hurley followed in 26:53. Lorraine Kennedy and Ann Tillyer finished in 29:25 and 29:36 respectively, battling bravely over the tough terrain. Susan Laste capped off the women’s results with a strong run, finishing in 32:23 and taking 2nd place O60.
The women’s teams also impressed, with the O35 team of Carol Molloy, Jessica Kennedy, and Tanya O’Brien finishing 3rd, while the O45 team of Paula Hendriksen, Oonagh Burke, and Áine Doocey also secured 3rd place.
A huge well done to all Fethard AC athletes who represented the club with pride and determination. Special thanks to the Rice family, our committee members, stewards, volunteers, bakers, and everyone who helped in any way to ensure the smooth running of the County Masters Cross Country Championships. Their support and hard work were truly the icing on the cake for a fantastic day!
GAA Sports Development Lotto Results
Fethard GAA Sports Lotto draw results for Tuesday, January 20, 2026, are as follows: the numbers drawn were: 8, 10, 16 and 33. We had no Jackpot winner and three Match 3 winners who received €50 each: Valerie Slattery, Fiona Spillane, and Karol Maher. One lucky dip winner received €100: Michael Conway. The next draw takes place on Tuesday, January 27, 2025, when the jackpot is €7,600.
The Committee of Fethard GAA / Sports Centre Development Lotto would like to thank all our supporters near and far who participate in our weekly Lotto.
Fethard Bridge Club
Bridge resumed on January 14 after our Christmas break and the results of the game that night were:
1st Nett Anna Cooke and Eileen Frewen
2nd Nett Kathleen Maher and Margaret Slattery
3rd Nett Margaret Greene and Marie Holohan
1st Gross Rita Kane and David O'Meara
2nd Gross Monica Anglim and Betty Walsh
3rd Gross Carmel Condon and Brendan Kenny
Bridge continues every Wednesday night in the Ballroom at 7pm. New members welcome.
The Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2026 Awards– the Fethard connection!
Great news from this year's Stripe Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition was that Mary Gorey (ex Fethard and now teaching in St Joseph's College Borrisoleigh) was the recipient of the Amgen Educator of Excellence Award.
Amgen Biological & Ecological Educator of Excellence Award presented by Country Senior Manager, Amgen Caitriona Duggan
to winner Mary Gorey from St Josephs College in Tipperary.
Introduction by Professor Pat Guiry
Stripe YSTE 26 Opening Ceremony Introduction delivered by former Fethard man, Professor Pat Guiry, chair of the board of the Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.
'Widows' Paradise' – SOLD OUT!
Members of the cast photographed after their performance on Tuesday night to a hugely enthusiastic audience in the Abymill Theatre. L to R: Niamh Hayes, Shane Kenny, Mary Boland-Prendergast, Joe Hanley, Ann Walsh, Liam O'Connor, Una Kiernan, P.J. Henehan, Owen Healy, and Lisa Anglim. The play is produced by Marian Gilpin.
Tipperariana Book Fair on Sunday February 8
The Tipperariana Book Fair returns to the Ballroom Fethard, Co. Tipperary, E91 AH76 on Sunday February 8, 2026 from 12 noon until 4 30 pm. The Fethard Historical Society looks forward to once more hosting what has long been vaunted as “the most successful one-day book fair in Ireland”.
As always, book dealers from all over the country will be present offering a wide variety of books from specialist first editions, historical tomes, children’s books, general interest and popular fiction. There is literally something for everyone and if you can’t find what you’re looking for the dealers will find it for you. Also, if you have valuable books at home, you can bring them along and get them valued without obligation.
Tipperary authors of books published last year will also be in attendance so it’s the ideal opportunity to come along, meet the author and buy a signed copy of that book for which you’ve been waiting.
The Fethard Historical Society also has its own stall offering incredible value in secondhand books of all genres: bestselling popular fiction, thrillers, the classics, children’s books, poetry, gardening books, cookery books etc. It’s another great chance to find a bargain or track down that particular book for which you’ve been searching.
The Book Fair returns with all the individual touches that make it so unique: live music provided by talented Clonmel pianist Eamonn O’Malley, the chance to browse at leisure and the always popular pop-up café featuring tasty treats and home baked goodies.
Admission is €3 and, as always, accompanied children are free making this a family friendly outing.
Please note there isn’t an ATM/ Card Machine on site so cash is the order of the day. In the interests of sustainability, it is also suggested that customers bring their own bags.
Donations of Books
The Fethard Historical Society is currently accepting donations of books for its stall. Books can be dropped into the Fethard Ballroom on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10am until 3pm. Any queries can be directed to Mary Hanrahan on 087 900 9722. All proceeds from the Society’s stall go towards funding its activities throughout the year.
€300 for Fethard’s Meals on Wheels service
Shirley Clooney (left) and Heather Bailey (right) presented a cheque for €300 to Mairead O'Brien for Fethard Day Care’s Meals on Wheels service. A huge Thank You to the parishioners of the Holy Trinity Church of Ireland's annual Carol Service who made the donations.
Social Dancing at Fethard Ballroom
Social Dancing continues at Fethard Ballroom on Sunday night, January 25, 2026, dancing to the music of, ‘Checkers’. All are welcome to come along and enjoy a terrific night’s social dancing from 8.30pm to 11.30pm. Admission is €10, which includes refreshments.
Selected for County Ladies Football U14 Teams
Congratulations to local girls Anna O’Sullivan, Kate Gaule and Jessica Looby, on their selection to the Tipperary Ladies Football U14 County Teams for 2026. This is a significant achievement for the players, their families and their club, Fethard Ladies Football, as they begin their inter-county football pathway. Best wishes to all three from everyone at Fethard Town Park.
Killusty National School now enrolling for September 2026 – support your local schools!
Parish Church Lotto Draw Results
There was no jackpot winner in the Parish Lotto on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The numbers drawn were 5, 13, 22, and 24. The winner of the weekly draw for €30 was Margaret Allen. Next week's draw takes place on Thursday, January 22, when the Jackpot is €4,475.
We are delighted with the support shown for our Parish Lotto, it is a fundraising initiative that is of great benefit to the parish. Please pass the word on and invite friends and family to take part. You can join, see the draw results, and details of how your support is making a big difference at: https://www.ourfundraiser.ie/org/fethardkillusty
Fethard 'Split The Cash' Community Draw CLICK HERE to enter the next draw online!
Congratulations to Johnny Breen who was winner of this week’s Community ‘Split the Cash’ draw worth €202.95. Ticket was drawn by Vincent Cummins. Thank you to everyone who supports our weekly draw. All money raised from this draw will be used to benefit our town.
Our next draw takes place on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Envelopes are €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available at the Tirry Community Centre, Kennys Centra Fethard, Lonergan's Bar, Fethard, and Butlers Off Licence, Fethard. Also, we have a scan to pay option. Please remember to fill in all three envelopes if you avail of the 'Three for €5' special offer.
What's On Clonmel – weekly guide to entertainment
Welcome to the online version of What’s On Clonmel, your weekly guide to events and entertainment. Find your copy in pubs and shops across town, or subscribe to receive it in your inbox. Now you can also browse and submit events in our interactive calendar!
Santa raises €95,543 for Temple Street Hospital
Fethard & Killusty Community Council would like to acknowledge and thank John, who brings the magic of Santa to towns across the country in the lead-up to Christmas.
We in Fethard were delighted to play a small part in this wonderful journey. John raised an incredible €95,543 for Temple Street Children’s Hospital — a truly outstanding achievement. We look forward to welcoming Santa back to Fethard again next year.
Santa photographed on one of his visits to Fethard
Died Recently The death has occurred on Sunday, January 11, 2026, of Angela Barrett (née McCarthy) Castleview, Ardfinnan, and formerly, The Green, Fethard, peacefully at her residence. Angela, predeceased by her parents Nora and Thomas McCarthy, sister Marion, brother Michael and brother-in-law Pat O'Donnell, is sadly missed by her loving husband Seán, daughters Deirdre and Orla (Byron) son Seán, son-in-law Michael and adored grandchildren Ella, Michael and Leah, brothers Tony and Don, sisters Margaret (O'Donnell) and Teresa (Morrissey), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. May she rest in peace.
Reposing at Costigan's Funeral Home, Cahir on Saturday 17th from 5pm until 7pm. Arriving to the Holy Family Church, Ardfinnan on Sunday for 1 o'clock Mass which may be watched live via Ardfinnan church live stream service www.churchservices.tv/ardfinnan with burial immediately afterwards to St Finnian's Cemetery. House strictly private on Sunday morning. Messages of condolence for the family can be left online by CLICKING HERE
Cuan Aoise Memory Cafe Next Meeting January 27
Fethard & District Day Care Centre AGM
The annual general meeting of Fethard & District Day Care Centre will take place on Tuesday, January 27, at 8pm, in their premises at Lower Main Street Fethard (E91 RR94). All are welcome to attend and know the services available. including their most recent Cuan Aoise Memory Cafe. New members are always welcome to support these community focused services and help shape the planned development of the Presentation Convent Campus.
Big Picture: A view of Fethard from the late 1800s
"A picture is worth a thousand words" is an adage in multiple languages meaning that complex and sometimes multiple ideas can be conveyed by a single still image, which conveys its meaning or essence more effectively than a mere verbal description.
This photograph of Fethard has the potential to raise a thousand questions about the forgotten and lost features of our town from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Take a closer look and see if you spot any changes from today's world and maybe a few words that will help explain to those unaware.
The Photographer
On March 20, 1865, at the age of 24, William Mervin Lawrence opened a Photographic Studio opposite the GPO at Sackville Street, Dublin. Over the years the studio successfully photographed the length and breadth of Ireland. The collection consists of 40,000 glass plates mainly from the period 1880-1914, but some plates go back to 1870.
You can zoom in closer to see more detail by clicking the photograph to zoom-in, and double-clicking the photograph to zoom-out or use the controls when you hover at the bottom of the photograph. If you can help with further information or questions, please let us know. Your comments, names or corrections are always welcome to: fethardnews@gmail.com
Faces and Places from the Past
This week we have a variety of photographs received over 20 years ago from the family album of the late musician Johnny Casey, Cahir, and who formerly lived in the The Valley Fethard, where most of these photographs were taken. We invite people to let us know any names, or any other information that we can add to our files for future generations. If anyone can help us, please do and send any comments, photo information, names, to fethardnews@gmail.com
Johnny Casey celebrating his 21st Birthday
Neighbours Bill Mulligan and Johnny Casey playing some music at The Valley
Group photographed at The Valley L to R: Johnny Casey (father), John Casey, Kit (Catherine) Mackey (mother) and Johnny Mackey (uncle), Mary Cassidy (sister). In front Molly Mackey (grandmother) and child is Eileen Cassidy (niece).
L to R: Johnny Casey (sen), Mary Cassidy, Kit Mackey, Kathleen Jenkins (sister), Johnny Casey. Front: Joan Jenkins, Eileen Cassidy and Kathleen Jenkins.
We think this lady is Maggie O'Brien. She lived in The Valley and died around the time we went to live there in the nineteen-fifties. We eventually moved in to her house which had three bedrooms and a loft and seemed like a palace compared to the one-roomed house we had been living in. It must be a very old photo as she seems much younger than the old lady with a shawl that I remember from around 1955-56, in my pre-school days. I showed it to my mother and she thought it was a young Maggie as well. Wasn't a hundred per cent sure, though. The late Nellie Shortall would probably have remember her more clearly.
Winnie Caplice and Johnny Casey photographed on their wedding day by Justin Nelson on April 23, 1958
Three men ?
Johnny Mackey and John Casey
Please send any comments, photo information, names or stories, to fethardnews@gmail.com
Fethard News for inclusion on this website
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The death has occurred on Sunday, January 11, 2026, of Angela Barrett (née McCarthy) Castleview, Ardfinnan, and formerly, The Green, Fethard, peacefully at her residence. Angela, predeceased by her parents Nora and Thomas McCarthy, sister Marion, brother Michael and brother-in-law Pat O'Donnell, is sadly missed by her loving husband Seán, daughters Deirdre and Orla (Byron) son Seán, son-in-law Michael and adored grandchildren Ella, Michael and Leah, brothers Tony and Don, sisters Margaret (O'Donnell) and Teresa (Morrissey), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. May she rest in peace.
