Free admission for Wednesday’s Wexford races

By Dan Walsh

Following the cancellation of the Wexford meeting scheduled for the October Monday Bank Holiday due to waterlogging, Horse Racing Ireland has announced that this meeting will now take place at Wexford next Wednesday November 4th.

First race on Wednesday is 12 noon. Seven races. The going is described as ‘Yielding to Soft’. Remaining dry and breezy over the coming days. Racing on inside racing line (Hurdle), five yards from outer racing line (Chase).

Admission is free. With favourable weather and good jump racing expected, a strong turnout would be a fitting end to Wexford’s final fixture of the year.

Free on-line tickets available at www.wexfordraces.ie.

Sunday’s point-to-point action centred on Damma House in the neighbouring county of Kilkenny where two Wexford trained winners were celebrated.

BARRY STONE was amongst the winners in Kilkenny. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Tomhaggard handler Benny Walsh saddled his 25th career winner when Leo Brave Fe in the colours of Busher Bloodstock and Crossgales Stables Partnership led from three out to came home first, six lengths to the good under Barry Stone, in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.

Jim O’Neill in his fifth season as a handler saddled his 10th winner when Jigsaw Juke ridden by Brian Dunleavy beat his neighbour Matthew Flynn O’Connor’s Sir Topham Hall in the Winner of Two race. O’Neill’s charge is likely to go for a winners’ race before tacking a hunter’s chase.

Two Wexford winners yesterday (Saturday) at Lisronagh, Co. Tipperary. Eamonn Doyle saddled his first runner of the season, Annabelle Park in the Mossy Fen Stables Partnership colours in the mares’ maiden four-year-old race which resulted in victory by ‘a neck’ ridden by Alan Harney.

League of Legends in the Monbeg Syndicate colours scored in the maiden race for four-year-old geldings for Ballindaggin handler Donnchadh Doyle. Rob James the winning rider and the verdict was ‘half a length’.

Next point-to-point action in Co. Wexford is Sunday November 8th with the Wexford Hunt fixture at Knockmullen House, on the outskirts of New Ross. First race at 12.30pm.

Increased safety measures along Wexford Quay

Works on the Bank of Ireland crossing at Wexford Quay is an investment in public safety, said Cllr Robbie Staples.

By Dan Walsh

Wexford Borough Cllr Robbie Staples has welcomed the commencement of works at the Bank of Ireland crossing on Wexford Quay, describing it as “an important step towards making one of Wexford town’s busiest roadways safer for everyone who uses it.”

Speaking following the start of construction works, Cllr Staples said the enhanced lighting initiative is designed to improve visibility at pedestrian crossings, particularly during darker winter months and periods of poor weather, helping to reduce risks for both pedestrians and drivers.

The works now completed form part of a wider plan to upgrade pedestrian safety infrastructure along Wexford Quay, a project Cllr Staples has been pushing for with the respective officials in Wexford County Council.

CLLR ROBBIE STAPLES

“Improving safety for pedestrians has been a key priority. I am delighted to see works commence at the Bank of Ireland crossing, which is one of the most heavily used crossing points along the Quay,” said Cllr Staples, who added; “These lighting upgrades will make pedestrians more visible to motorists and create a safer environment for everyone.

The project follows ongoing calls for improved pedestrian safety measures along Wexford Quay and builds upon previous investment in active travel and road safety initiatives throughout Wexford town.

Works at the Bank of Ireland crossing have significantly enhanced visibility for all road users and represent an important investment in public safety along one of the town’s busiest routes.

Halloween headache for Ukrainian families

Historic HOOK HEAD. (File Pic; WexfordLocalcom)

By Dan Walsh

The Offer A Home scheme comes to an end in March 2027 and the Ukrainian Response Unit at Wexford County Council team will “manage existing pledges and encourage Ukrainian families to enter private rental arrangements with the homeowners.”

Where this is not possible, families will be encouraged to find alternative long-term accommodation. Since April 1st, 2026, 40 properties in Co. Wexford have been withdrawn from the scheme.

On Friday, South East Radio reported that “almost 200 Ukrainian residents living at Hookless Village at Templetown on the Hook Peninsula are facing an uncertain future as State-supported accommodation at the site comes to an end.

“The contract expires today, October 31st, with 197 residents given three months to make alternative arrangements,” it added.

“Natalia, a resident of the Hookless Village told the radio that “Residents were given two options when notified in August: apply for temporary accommodation in a centre or find somewhere else independently. They asked the owner of the cottages if they could rent them for longer, ideally until the end of the school year, but the request was rejected.”

Apparently, families in the region have contacted local and national representatives, including Wexford Minister James Browne TD, Minister for Migration Jim O’Callaghan TD and Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD, seeking clarity on their situation.

Meanwhile, the October County Council meeting report of the Chief Executive announced that Carne Accommodation Centre (occupancy 50), Unity Court, Wexford, (29), and Borrmount Lodge, near Bree, Enniscorthy, (29), have been given closure notices in line with the Government’s withdrawal of state-contracted commercial accommodation. The three centres are due to close on October 31st.

Escaping the Ukraine Refurbishment programme for the time being appears to include Michael Street, Wexford, (occupancy 13), Rafter Street, Enniscorthy, (5), and Ryland Road, Bunclody, (8).

Teenager missing from Drinagh

FERGUS HARTY

By Dan Walsh

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old Fergus Harty who is reported missing from Drinagh, Wexford, since Monday 19th October 2026.

Fergus is described to being approximately 6 feet in height, of slim build, with short brown hair and brown eyes.

Gardaí are concerned for Fergus’s well-being.

Anyone with any information on Fergus’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wexford Garda station on (053) 916 5200, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

7 defibrillator locations in Marshalstown

By Dan Walsh

Marshalstown is the home parish of Cllr Pat Kehoe, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council who is reminding the neighbourhood of the existence of defibrillators should medical emergencies arise at any time.

“​We’re fortunate to have seven defibrillators located across our community,” said Cllr Kehoe, who added: “Since knowing where to find one in an emergency is critical, here is where you can access ​Defibrillator Locations;

CLLR PAT KEHOE. Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

• ​Marshalstown Community Centre

• Castledockrell (Church Carpark)

• ​Ballydaw (NMT Group)

• ​Farmleigh GAA Pitch

• ​Milehouse (Brooks Residence)

• ​Barleyhill Playschool

• ​Old Post Office Ballycarney

​“​We also have a dedicated team of trained local volunteers working behind the scenes, who will be launching their official Facebook page soon to share updates and training tips.

​“Please Share this post to help make sure everyone in our community knows where to go in an emergency!” concluded Cllr Kehoe.

Wexford town water supply is returning

The Croppy Boy memorial in the famous Bull Ring in Wexford town (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Water is now returning to homes and businesses in Wexford town after Uisce Éireann crews successfully repaired a major burst on a water main in the area.

The burst, which occurred this morning, required extensive repair works by specialist crews to restore normal water supply as quickly and safely as possible.

Padraig Lyng, Water Network Operations Manager, Uisce Éireann, said: “We know that losing your water supply can be difficult and disruptive for families, businesses and communities, and we are very grateful to everyone affected for their patience and understanding while repairs were carried out.

“We are pleased to have supply returning, and we appreciate the efforts people made to conserve water while repairs were underway. Community support and cooperation made a real difference,” added Mr. Lyng.

Customers may experience lower than normal pressure, temporary discolouration or intermittent supply for a short period while the network refills. This is normal and should improve as the system stabilises.

Uisce Éireann teams will continue to monitor the network.

New Ross Tidy Towns’ wins Gold

New Ross Tidy Towns’ celebrates a prestigious Gold Medal achievement in the 2026 SuperValu Tidy Towns National Competition.

By Dan Walsh

New Ross Municipal District Council has congratulated the New Ross Tidy Towns Committee and all those involved in achieving a prestigious Gold Medal in the 2026 SuperValu Tidy Towns National Competition.

Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, Cllr John Fleming, welcomed the news; “This is a fantastic achievement for New Ross and something the whole community can be proud of. This success belongs to everyone who has played a part in improving our town.”

Chair of the New Ross Tidy Towns Committee, David Lee, also welcomed the announcement: “Winning a Gold Medal in the Tidy Towns competition is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for New Ross. This award is a testament to the collective pride, commitment, and hard work of everyone who contributes to making our town such a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

“As Chairman of the Tidy Towns Committee, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated volunteers, residents’ associations, traders, local clubs and schools, whose enthusiasm, generosity and continued efforts make such a difference to our community. Your support and willingness to get involved are at the heart of this success.

“While the Gold Medal is a fantastic achievement, it is also a reminder of the importance of working together and taking pride in our community. My thanks to everyone who has played a part in this success. By continuing to work in partnership, we can build on this achievement and ensure that New Ross remains a welcoming, attractive and thriving community for residents and visitors alike,” added Mr. Lee.

District Manager Alan Fitzhenry stated; “Winning a Gold Medal is a tremendous achievement for New Ross and one which everyone involved can be immensely proud of. To progress from no medal position to Gold in just four years demonstrates what can be achieved when a community works together with a shared vision and determination.

Mr Fitzhenry concluded; “I would like to sincerely thank the New Ross Tidy Towns committee and volunteers, our outdoor crew and Community Employment sScheme workers, Town Gardener, General Services Supervisors, Area Engineer, Municipal District staff, Elected Members and the many volunteers who have contributed to this success. Their hard work and dedication have helped make New Ross a more vibrant, welcoming and beautiful town for all.”

The achievement reflects the combined efforts of the New Ross Tidy Towns committee, volunteers, local residents, community groups, schools, businesses, and the staff of the New Ross Municipal District, all of whom have worked tirelessly to improve and maintain the town’s public spaces, streetscapes, biodiversity initiatives and overall presentation.

Uisce Éireann completes another Enniscorthy project

MARKET SQUARE, Enniscorthy. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Uisce Eireann has replaced 1.25 km of ageing water mains on Nunnery Road, Enniscorthy, with modern, resilient pipes.

These older pipes had been prone to bursts and leaks, causing supply interruptions and wasting treated drinking water, a precious resource. This section of the network was losing 220,000 litres of water per day, enough water to supply 1,654 people daily.

The upgraded network now brings greater reliability to homes and businesses right across Enniscorthy, providing a water service people can count on for years to come.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD welcomed news of the completed works. “This is positive news for the people of Enniscorthy who will benefit from a more reliable water supply through these upgrades to the pipe network. A reliable water supply is fundamental to family and community life. With upgrade works by Uisce Éireann now complete in the town, I’m pleased to see further progress on improvements to Wexford’s water supply.” 

Uisce Éireann’s Dave Murphy is proud to be part of the team who has delivered these long-term benefits for the community. He said; “These works are an important part of delivering a water service built to last. By replacing ageing pipes with modern, resilient infrastructure, we’re improving water services today while strengthening resilience for the future.

“While all pipework and connections are now complete on this project, final road reinstatement is still outstanding and will be completed in the coming weeks, subject to weather.”

Wexford lifeboat responds during Storm Boelo

By Dan Walsh

Wexford RNLI volunteers launched their inshore lifeboat at 3.20pm on Saturday after the Irish Coast Guard received reports of a windsurfer in difficulty near Ardcavan beach in Wexford Harbour.

The lifeboat helmed by Damien Foley launched and proceeded to the scene at a moderate speed. Conditions at the time were rough as Wexford was experiencing severe weather brought on by Storm Boelo, featuring a strong south-westerly wind gusting force 8 at times against a rising tide, creating a heavy swell in the harbour.

When the lifeboat arrived at the scene at 3.38pm, the windsurfer had already made it safely to the shoreline unaided. After confirming that the windsurfer was safe and well, the crew were stood down and proceeded back to the station.

The return journey proved particularly challenging amidst the Storm Boelo conditions, with the lifeboat battling a 1.5m short swell driving spray, force 9 winds, a rough sea state, and moderate visibility amid cloudy rain that made visibility poor.

The call out marked the first operational launch for the station’s new lifeboat, Cill Dara, after Kildare RNLI Fundraising Branch raised €117,000 for the lifesaving asset.

DAMIEN FOLEY (Pic; RNLI/Lorraine Galvin)

Speaking after the call out, Wexford RNLI Helm Damien Foley said: “The crew did exceptionally well handling the difficult weather conditions out on the water. It was a challenging first shout for our new lifeboat, Cill Dara, but everyone performed brilliantly.

‘We would remind anyone planning a trip or activity at sea to always check weather and tide forecasts before heading out, to wear a suitable personal flotation device, and carry a means of calling for help such a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. If you get into difficulty or see someone in trouble on or near the water, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard,” concluded Mr Foley.

Today’s Wexford races are cancelled

BREAKING NEWS By Dan Walsh

Following 16mm of rain overnight, the track at Wexford now has water lying in places and the fixture has been cancelled.

In a statement issued by Niall Madden, IHRB Clerk of the Course, he said; “We have got more rain than we were expecting, and the majority of the rainfall has come since 5am. The sheer volume of rain in a short time has left water lying on parts of the track.

“The rain was due to ease a little while ago with strong winds throughout the day, but we still have persistent rain at present.

“In light of the current conditions on the track and with the rain still falling, we are making the unfortunate decision to cancel the fixture.”

Trainer PAUL NOLAN receiving a trophy from URSULA SINNOTT, Managing Director, at Wexford racecourse this afternoon. (Pic; Wexford Racecourse)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford Races on Sunday

Despite low sun causing problems in some races at Wexford today (Sunday), the eight-race meeting was enjoyable, with local Enniscorthy trainer Paul Nolan grabbing the headlines.

Nolan trained five of the maiden hurdle’s 11 runners, with four claiming the first four places—a remarkable result more often associated with Aidan O’Brien or Willie Mullins!

El Bilo (33/1), ridden by Jordan Gainford, powered to a 20-length victory followed home by Well Friend (Sean O’Keeffe), Whelkeen View (Sean Flanagan), and Coffeemorninggirls (Alan O’Sullivan).

It was a double on the day for Nolan. He also had a hurdle victory with The Two Degrees (10/3) ridden by Sean Flanagan.