GAA Lotto.
The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 11, 19, 22 and 26 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were George Kennedy, Spencer Bowman and Monica Marnell. The next draw will take place on Sunday June 25th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €10,100 up for grabs. Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5 and are on sale from any committee member or will also be on sale at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday June 24th. Get your ticket early and choose those four numbers carefully.
Bridge News
The Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge club held their latest game on Monday June 12th and the results were as follows: 1st: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins. 2nd: Ann Cox and Peggy Murphy. 3rd: Sean Hennessy and Nano Fitzgerald.
Celebration Time
We send warm birthday wishes to Philip Simpson, Ballyduff West who recently celebrated his 70th birthday. Philip enjoyed his birthday with a lovely evening with his family. Philip has a lot to celebrate this month as he also marks 40 years of married bliss with his lovely wife Tina. I’m sure this lovely couple will be spoiled by their daughters Lisa and Kellie and all the family.
Waterford Suir Valley Railway
Many people ask about experiencing the entire 10km return journey from Kilmeaden station to Bilberry station, but this is usually only for pre-booked groups. However, you can enjoy this full trip as part of The Sunset Express which will take place every Thursday night during the months of July and August. The Sunset Express is very popular and early booking is advised. Before departing the station, you can relax on the platform with some Prosecco and strawberries while listening to some acoustic music. Time then to board the train and receive your picnic box full of delicious seasonal and locally produced culinary delights from the award-winning Grow HQ Café in Waterford. A beautiful trip, taking in the beautiful sights along the way is a perfect way to experience the sights and sounds along the Greenway. This trip is very popular with adult groups, social clubs, hen parties, landmark birthdays, anniversaries and even a romantic marriage proposal. To book your spot email sales @wsvrailway.ie call 051 384058.
Church News
If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for a loved one, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.
We send our congratulations and best wishes to Fr. Pat Fitzgerald PP of St. Paul’s and Butlerstown who recently celebrated his Golden Jubilee. Fr. Pat is a very popular regular visitor to our parish and has presided over many weddings and christenings. Always positive and friendly Fr. Pat puts everyone at ease and of course always enjoys a song or two. We wish Fr. Pat many more happy years in Our Lord’s work.
Recent Deaths
We extend our deepest sympathies to Noel O Sullivan, Matthews Cross on the recent death of his uncle Pat O Sullivan in England. We pray that he now rests in peace.
We also extend our condolences to Fr. Garrett Desmond, Newtown on the recent loss of his mother Pauline. Funeral mass took place in St. Brigid’s Church, Killrossanty followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. May her gentle soul rest in peace.
Award Winner
Congratulations to Ava Spillane, Matthews Cross who recently attended the Mirror Mirror Hairdressing Awards in Cork and returned home with two second place awards and a third place. This is a fantastic achievement, and her family and friends are very proud of her. Ava is a member of The Shades Hairdressing Salon in Ferrybank where she receives wonderful support and encouragement. We wish Ava many happy years in the profession she loves.
Memorial Tournament
The names of Tom Cheasty and Derek Ryan are mentioned with great pride within Ballyduff GAA club and both men had several things in common. Both men were taken from this world way before their time, both left their heart and soul on the pitch every time they played, and both wore the Ballyduff jersey with great pride. The club like to honour these two men each year by hosting a memorial tournament. This year, the tournament will take place on Sunday July 2nd in Tom Cheasty Park, Kildermody, Kilmeaden. The club’s U12 team will take on Kilrossanty at 12 noon while the Intermediates will face the Brickey Rangers at 1.30pm. There will also be a delicious BBQ and fun for all the family, so drop along and enjoy a lovely community day remembering two wonderful men.
Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Run.
Each year people eagerly await the Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Run. This is always a great day out with something for everyone. Tractors of every size, colour and make can be found heading to the starting spot at Haughtons in Kilmeaden for a 1pm sharp start. They proceed on a beautiful scenic route around the area with plenty of stewards along the route to ensure everything runs smoothly. Returning to Haughtons, vehicles are parked up as hunger and thirst set in. The smell of a delicious BBQ is too inviting to ignore, followed by one or two lemonades. The atmosphere is always wonderful with many friends and tractor enthusiasts catching up, reminiscing, and discussing the latest in farm machinery.
This group have raised a large amount of money over the years for many Waterford charities and this year all money collected for entries and through donations will be presented to Pieta House Waterford. The work this charity does in Waterford and surrounding areas is exceptional and they work tirelessly for their clients and their families. Like many charities they depend greatly on donations so we must help in any small way we can to keep these wonderful amenities going. If you would like to enquire about entering the Tractor run or would like some more information, please contact Pat Fitzgerald on 087 2216589.