Recent Death
We extend our deepest sympathy to Derek Laffan, Ballyduff West on the recent death of his beloved father Freddie Laffan. Freddie was a very well-known and much loved character in Portlaw and was a true community man. One of the founding members of Portlaw Musical Society, Freddie gave some wonderful pantomime performances over the years and was known for adding in his own lines from time to time. A native of Mooncoin he remained true to his county with the Kilkenny flag flying with pride at the gate during the season and Ann would place the Waterford flag on the other side. Their marriage was probably one of the best Kilkenny/Waterford partnerships. They loved to spend time together and with their two sons Kieran and Derek, their wives Jacinta and Fiona and of course their adored grandchildren.
The huge crowd at Freddie’s funeral and burial was a testament of the high esteem in which Freddie was held. His name may never appear in any school history books, but his name will be forever remembered in the history of Portlaw. May he now rest in gentle peace and who knows within months there could be a Pantomime Society in heaven.
Suir Valley Railway
Waterford Suir Valley Railway in Kilmeaden is now open for the 2023 season. The easter bunny enjoyed a wonderful time there over Easter and many people enjoyed the beauty and magical feel of the railway with a trip on the train passing through the fairy woods and the stunning views over the river Suir. There were many chocolate eggs and treats along the way.
Would you like to become part of the team at Waterford Suir Valley Railway? Can you spare one day per week? The team are now adding to their volunteer crew and would love to hear from you. This is a wonderful opportunity to get out and about and meet people from all walks of life. Speaking to many of the volunteers they all say that it is one of the best decisions they ever met. The joy and pleasure you see on people’s faces is something that cannot be equalled. Friendships are made and the variety of people that you meet makes every day exciting and interesting. Many people dreamed of driving a train when they were a child, and this could become a reality. If you would like to find out more or express your interest, please contact Maria Kyte on 051-384058 or check out their Facebook page or website.
Bingo in Kill
Our friends in Kill Community Centre are organising Bingo nights every Saturday night, beginning on May 6th at 8pm. All proceeds are being donated to the Waterford Branch of the Parkinson society. This is a charity which is close to many of our hearts and how nice would it be to support the fabulous work that they do, while we enjoy a night of fun. So, gather your two little ducks and get your legs eleven to Kill. Eyes down at 8pm.
Church News
It is now time to hand back your Trocaire Box so that the money can be counted and sent to where it is needed. You can drop your box back to the church when you are passing or before or after any of the weekday or weekend masses.
If you would like to book an anniversary mass for your loved one during the months of April, May or June please contact Linda Spillane on 087-9838392.
The Easter collection for the support of the priests of the parish is continuing so please drop your envelope into the collection basket at the weekend masses. You can also drop it to the sacristy during the week if you would prefer. There is a letterbox on the sacristy door inside the church.
Community Alert
The next meeting of our local Community Alert Group will take place on Wednesday April 19th at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This will be the final meeting before the Summer break so it would be lovely to see as many as possible there. The Gardai will be in attendance and will be happy to deal with any queries and questions. The text alert scheme will continue throughout the Summer informing you of any suspicious activity in or around the area. This is a fantastic way of keeping up to date with any happenings to watch out for. The information received from the Gardai is sent out by text straight away and has helped many times in the apprehending of individuals. If you would like to become a member of the text alert scheme, you can join for the year for just €5. Please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.
Easter Commemoration
Congratulations to John O Leary who each year organises an Easter commemoration at the 1916 plaque on Ballyduff Village Green. Following Easter Sunday morning mass, a large crowd gathered around the plaque. It was only fitting than in his year as Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O Leary would read the Proclamation. One of Ballyduff’s oldest residents Tommy O Brien raised our Tricolour to its’ glory and talented piper Tommy Kiely played our National Anthem. This was a lovely occasion attended by young and old coming together to celebrate our heritage and it is wonderful to see this tradition being carried on. A big thank you to John who always organises the event.