From the foothills to the sea

Cathy Lee, Chairperson of the Ahare River Biodiversity Group, and Dr Fran Igoe, LAWPRO, displaying the new publication; The Ahare River from Croghan to Castletown; Water, Wildlife, People and Place at the Castletown River and Nature Festival on Saturday.

By Dan Walsh at Castletown

One of the highlights of yesterday’s (Saturday) Castletown River & Nature Festival was the launch of a detailed local publication The Ahare River from Croghan to Castletown; Water, Wildlife, People and Place, which is destined to serve as a local encyclopedia of knowledge and awareness in the North Wexford community.

Cathy Lee, Chairperson Friends of the Ahare River and Biodiversity Group, writes; “There is much beauty, biodiversity, history and folklore associated with the Ahare River catchment and we hope to share some of this with you (the reader) in this publication.”

The foreword to the publication is penned by well-known broadcaster, author and proud Castletown resident, Joe Duffy. “My family has been coming to this beautiful part of Wexford for over 25 years. The people of this area are welcoming, friendly, and hospitable. The area itself is unique, rare, and very beautiful -it has to be treasured,” writes Joe Duffy in his opening remarks to a positive article.

Contributors include Dónal O’Keeffe, Catchment Scientist, Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO); Emer Russell, Principal, Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown, Gorey; Jeshua Taucher, Project Manager Seal Rescue Ireland; Faith Wilson, Ecologist; Ken Whelan, Fisheries Scientist, author and radio personality; Donnchadh Byrne, Senior Fisheries Environmental Officer; a contribution from the 1938 National Folklore Collection, reflections from the river bank from Andy Kelly, and a winning story from Ellen Dixon (aged 12) 6th Class Scoil Naofa, Castletown, and much more.

As an introduction there is some important geography. “From the foothills in the west of the Catchment to the sea at Castletown, the streams from Rathpierce Hill and Croghan Mountain form the Inch and Clonogue River. Flowing through green and fertile countrywide, these rivers join together to form the Ahare, also known as the Kilgorman or Inch River. It then flows through the flood plain at Ahare before entering the Irish Sea at Kilgorman on Clone Beach in North County Wexford.”

The Ahare River from Croghan to Castletown; Water, Wildlife, People and Place, A4 size, 20 pages including cover, published by Streamscapes, Bantry, Co. Cork, available from any member of the Ahare River Biodiversity Group.

Louisa wins the fashion stakes

By Dan Walsh at Wexford Racecourse

LOUISA MURPHY, Ladies Day winner at Wexford Racecourse (Pic; Patrick Browne).

It was Ladies Day at Friday evening’s Wexford races and there were plenty of fashion doing the rounds although the weather was misbehaving at times, but it was a pretty occasion of glamour, colour, social intercourse and good fun.

The judge was celebrity fashion expert Marietta Doran, who admitted that “there was plenty of talent to choose from and picking a winner was not an easy decision, but there has to be a winner!”

The popular winner was Ferns hairdresser Louisa Murphy, who lives in Tramore, and was given a rousing round of congratulatory applause when she received her prize in the parade ring after the sixth race.

The other four finalists were Catherine Byrne, St. Mullins, Mary Hamilton from Gorey, Veronica Murphy from Ballyhack and Alice J. Kelly from Blackwater.

The Ladies Day event was sponsored by Slaney View Motors and Ferrycarrig Hotel in association with New Mood Boutique.

Two local successes at Wexford races

The Latta family pictured with Thisistheway following success in the concluding INH Flat Race (left to right) Yvonne, Andrew, Charles and Lucy. Also pictured are John Gleeson (jockey) and Lisa Carton, (groom).

By Dan Walsh at Wexford races

It was Ladies Day at Bettyville Park last evening (Friday) where a large crowd packed the stands to cheer their selections and to witness some fine finishes, a few favourites keeping the punters sweet, and success for two local training establishments.

The Latta family from Ballinakill, Ballycarney, have a long winning association with Wexford, and they were celebrating after the home-bred filly Thisistheway (9/1) scored by an impressive four and a quarter lengths victory in the INH Flat Race for trainer Yvonne Latta with young Waterford amateur John Gleeson on board. The winner was led up by Lisa Carton, Bunclody, who works for the Latta stables.

The Touch of Luck Syndicate, consisting of nine members from the Cleariestown area of south Wexford, had their special moment when Iridesent (7/1) prevailed by half a length for trainer Jonathan Fogarty and jockey Kieran Callaghan in the handicap chase.

Jockey Keith Donoghue had a double up after the opening two races. He was aboard Dutch Scultz (9/4) for Gavin Cromwell in the maiden hurdle and half an hour later partnered Navigator Jack, (10/3 fav.) for Slieverue trainer Eoin Griffin to a nine lengths victory in the second maiden hurdle on the seven-race card.

Philip Enright was on the winning favourite Sarah Beara (7/2 fav.) in the handicap hurdle winning by five and a half lengths for Cashel trainer Sam Curling. Caim jockey JJ Slevin was third on Ocean Legacy.

Jack Kennedy and Gordon Elliott took the beginners chase with Riaan (6/1) and the two-mile handicap chase was won by Royal Juniper (11/2) for Tony Martin and Peter Carberry. The latter was the most exciting finish of the day with less than two lengths separating the first four to finish.

Great evening’s racing. A bit showery that changed the going. Large crowd and 10 lucky punters managed to assemble the correct jackpot combination, and each left the track richer by €1,790. Well done to all.

The next race meeting at Bettyville Park is an evening fixture on Friday, September 1st.

Death of Enniscorthy businessman

By Dan Walsh

The death has occurred of well-known Enniscorthy businessman, Pat Casey, (69), 20, Slaney Street, who was also a great community activist and was a founder member and former chairman of Slaney Search and Rescue.

PAT CASEY

Mr. Casey worked for the family business, MF Casey Jewellers, set up by his late parents, Maurice and Betty Casey, after they purchased the former family business and home of renowned poet Anthony Cronin (1923-2016) on Slaney Street in the early 1950s.

A most popular member of the community, news of Pat’s death has been greeted with shock and sadness and condolences are extended to his sorrowing family and friends. R.I.P.

In a statement on social media Slaney Search and Rescue paid this fine tribute; “It was with deepest sadness that we heard yesterday of the untimely passing of our beloved member Pat Casey. Pat has been with Slaney Search and Rescue since its inception. Over the years he has worked tirelessly for the organisation, holding many positions on our Committee including Chairman. But probably Pat’s greatest talent was training our new members. From introducing them to the operation of the boats to showing them how to stand up in a dry suit, Pat was the man. He will be sorely missed.“

FAMILY NOTICE; Dearly loved husband of Margaret Kavanagh Casey, loving father of Marguerite and John, adoring grandfather of Patrick and John, beloved son of the late Maurice and Betty and much-loved brother of Betty, Maurice, Stephen, Christina, Marie and the late John and Catherine.

Sadly missed by his loving family, Marguerite’s partner Jimmy, John’s partner Azraa, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. May He Rest in Peace

Reposing at Browne’s Funeral Home, Enniscorthy, on Saturday from 12 noon until 7pm and on Sunday from 2pm with removal at 6.30pm to St. Aidan’s Cathedral.

Funeral Mass on Monday at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Enniscorthy.

Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, to Slaney Search & Rescue.

Ladies Day Friday at Wexford races

Seventy-nine runners have been declared for the seven-races Friday evening race meeting at Bettyville Park and the scene is set for a great sporting occasion. The first race is off at 4.55pm.

The latest update on the track is “good to yielding and a mainly dry forecast.” They are monitoring the situation regarding watering.

A bumper attendance is expected because it is Slaney View Motors and Ferrycarrig Hotel Ladies Day in association with New Mood Boutique. The guest judge is well-known fashion commentator Marietta Doran, no stranger to Wexford racecourse, she’s been here before, and nobody better to bring out the best in glamour and colour and style to the social side of racing at Wexford.

Fashion commentator MARIETTA DORAN and DAN WALSH at Wexford races July 2019. Working together again on Friday. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

THE CARD; 4.55pm; Think Print & Design Maiden Hurdle of €10,500, 2 miles 160 yards. (11 runners).

5.30pm; Traynors of Wexford Handicap Hurdle of €10,500. 2 miles 4 furlongs 100 yards. (12 runners).

6.05pm; Country Fest Wexford August 13th Handicap Hurdle of €11,000. 3 miles. (13 runners).

6.40pm; O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey Beginners Chase of €12,000. 2 miles 3 furlongs 170 yards. (11 runners).

7.15pm; Elevate Financial Planning Opportunity Handicap Chase of €11,500. 2 miles 3 furlongs 170 yards. (11 runners).

7.50pm; Racing TV Members Handicap Chase of €11,000. 2 miles. (10 runners).

8.25pm; Irish Stallion Farms EBF (M) INH Flat Race of €11,000. 2 miles 160 yards. (11 runners).

New addition to Bree Hill Walking Trails

BALLYBRITTAS DOLMEN will be open to visitors on the Bree Hill Walking Trails from next Sunday.

By Dan Walsh on Bree Hill

Ballybrittas Dolmen, hiding low down on the western slope of Bree Hill, dates from around 1800 BC, and far and away the oldest man-made building in Co. Wexford and next Sunday it takes on a new identity when the Ballybrittas Dolman Trail is officially opened to the public.

It is an ambitious extension to the existing Bree Hill Trail and the meeting point is Bree Community Centre for the opening ceremony at 12.45pm by Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council. Local archaeologist Colm Moriarty will give a talk about the dolmen at the site.

Credit is given to Bree Trail Committee; a sub-committee of Bree Development Group and the extension was completed due to €50,000 grant funding. The project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Wexford County Council.

Writing in my book, Bree; The Story of a County Wexford Parish (edited by the late Gerry Breen and long out of print) in 1980, my sources for research on the Ballybrittas Dolmen was the Early Irish History Department at UCD, Dublin.

The Ballybrittas Dolmen belongs to a group of megalithic tombs called ‘portal dolmens’, so called because the massive stones holding up the large capstone, that could weigh anything from 20 to 100 tons weight) are sometimes arranged in the shape of a porch.

It is said that the site at Ballybrittas is a classic site for portal dolmens – on the side of a townland close to a hill – in this case the River Boro, a tributary of the River Slaney famed in local poetry and verse.

Nothing is known of the dolmen makers apart from the tombs they built were for their dead. They would have had no writing, or no metals at all, although they might have been aware that metals existed.

Today, I survived the 6.2km (3.9 miles) trail, via Bree Hill, steep slopes in both directions and not for the faint-hearted, but the panoramic views from the east coast, across south Wexford and towards New Ross were pin-sharp accompanied by 26 degrees and brilliant sunshine.

Wexford racing concerns on Minister’s desk

By Dan Walsh

Over 40 horse trainers and point-to-point handlers currently operating in Co. Wexford are calling on Wexford-based Minister for State at the Department of Justice with responsibility for law reform, James Browne TD, expressing concerns around the future broadcasting of Irish race meetings and the gambling advertising watershed ban which is proposed in the Gambling Regulation Bill.

The correspondence, which has the full backing of the Irish Racehorse Trainer’s Association, released to the media, and seen by WexfordLocal.com begins as follows; “We, your constituents, represent over 40 yards and support close to 400 full and part-time employees as well as creating a very substantial amount of indirect employment.”

“You (Minister Browne) may not realise but over the last two years Wexford-based trainers and handlers have been responsible for the sale of horses to the value of over €45 million. It is a great source of pride to us that our efforts and success have resulted in a major boost to local economies throughout the county, especially within the last decade. 

“In recent weeks we have become aware of the Gambling Regulation Bill which is likely to be passed into law later this year. As a body we wholeheartedly support any form of gambling regulation and anything that can be done to protect the vulnerable and most at risk in our society is paramount. So before proceeding any further we want to impress upon you our belief that the Gambling Regulation Bill is a necessary and positive addition to legislation in Ireland. 

“However, lately there have been reports in the media that the dedicated horse racing subscription channels – Racing TV and Sky Sports Racing – are seriously worried about their ability to continue broadcasting Irish race meetings to an Irish audience in light of the gambling advertising watershed ban which is proposed within the Gambling Regulation Bill.

MINISTER JAMES BROWNE… Wexford racing interests have expressed concerns about some issues in the Gambling Regulation Bill.

“Television coverage, which encompasses the two aforementioned channels along with RTE, TG4 and Virgin Media, represents one of the key pillars in our ability to market the sport and, as importantly, our bloodstock. So, if racing were to disappear from our screens, we believe it would have a detrimental effect on both the hugely successful Irish racing industry and our pivotal point-to-point sector which underpins local economies throughout Wexford.

“The ability to watch live racing pictures from Irish tracks is still a comparatively new phenomenon but it is one which is now a vital component to the overall health of the racing industry. It enables the sport to seamlessly reach its core fan base while also helping to attract new business to all in our local area and beyond.

“Therefore, we are seriously worried that if racing was to disappear from our television screens because it is no longer commercially viable for these channels to broadcast here at home, it would represent a terrible blow to our livelihoods not to mention the impact it would have on local economies throughout the county. 

“Fundamentally It will greatly undermine our ability to sell horses to anybody but overseas clients as Irish interest in Irish racing would unquestionably diminish sharply in the absence of live television pictures. 

“Minister, we would plead with you avoid what is an unintended consequence of this extremely worthwhile and necessary piece of legislation and work towards creating the sort of exemptions already place in other jurisdictions such as Australia and Britain that will allow these TV channels (that are already behind paywalls) to work in a commercial environment where it is attractive for them to continue to broadcast Irish racing here in Ireland and not just to a UK audience where no similar commercial restrictions apply.”

17th New Ross Piano Festival launch

Artistic Director FINGHIN COLLINS performing at the launch of the 17th annual New Ross Piano Festival on the Dunbrody Famine Ship.

By Dan Walsh in New Ross

An exciting programme has been arranged for the 17th New Ross Piano Festival (September 20-24th) taking place in St. Mary’s Church, New Ross, details of which were announced by Artistic Director, Finghin Collins, at a special launch on board the Dunbrody Famine Ship on New Ross quayside last evening (Tuesday).

Guest speaker was Dr. Eamonn McKee, Irish Ambassador to Canada, who spoke about the many links between Ireland and Canada and he related the emigrant voyage of the Fitzwilliam estate occupants from Coollattin from New Ross port during the Famine years of the mid-19th century.

Artistic Director Finghin Collins also played Canada and recalled happy memories from there, he also performed a few piano pieces, as did Grace Mercer. John Kissane, Chairman of New Ross Piano Festival Committee, welcomed the invited attendance and acted as master of ceremonies.

This year there is a lot of Rachmaninov, on the 150th anniversary of his birth.  Sergei Rachmaninov was born on April 1st 1873 into a family of the Russian aristocracy which had a strong musical tradition. Interestingly, his paternal grandfather had taken lessons from the Irish composer John Field.

Pianist Lucy Parham is bringing the actor Tim McInnerny to perform Elegie, a musical journey through Rachmaninov’s life and compositions.  

Meagan Milatz is coming over from Canada, as part of an exciting collaboration with the festival at Le Domaine Forget near Quebec, whereby both festivals commissioned piano pieces inspired by the Dunbrody Ship, which was built in Quebec.  The replica ship, the Dunbrody is one of New Ross’s tourist attractions, dealing as it does with emigration to America from this area. 

The Festival has always encouraged a youth element, in several ways.  There is one whole evening concert given by 20 young piano students from the South East, there are sessions in the Library with primary school children, and the talk and concert performance to second level students in the church, as well as a public master-class with one of the guest pianists, Lucy Parham, and two advanced students.

Festival tickets are booked via St. Michael’s Theatre, New Ross, (055 421255). Lots more detail in the brochure and on the website, www.newrosspianofestival.com

Enniscorthy music and food festival success

Enniscorthy town centre is thronged for the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival. (Pic; Rockin’ Food & Fruit Committee).

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy’s latest and the best to date, Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival has ended, leaving behind a trail of satisfied taste buds, joyful memories, and a harmonious blend of culinary and musical experiences.

The festival was a resounding success, drawing in a diverse crowd that celebrated the fusion of flavours and music. There were 70 food and craft vendors offered everything from delectable street food to exotic international cuisines, attendees wandered the streets and enjoyed a culinary journey that spanned from local food from a variety of Wexford Food Family members to exotic international cuisine.

The Food Marquee was enlivened all weekend with delectable demonstrations from top chefs Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, Paul Hynes and range of local chefs and producers.

Wexford Food Family announced their new President Pauline Dunne and attendees were treated to a variety of tastings and talks from their members.

Adding to the variety of festivities and the vibrant atmosphere were the live music performances that reverberated through the air. Local international bands and artists took the stage, delivering captivating performances that had dancers of all ages take to the dance floor. The synergy between music and food created an ambiance that was nothing short of eclectic.

Festival Chairman Eric Barron told WexfordLocal.com that he and the committee “were overwhelmed by the incredible response received for this years Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival” which attracted huge crowds to Enniscorthy over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

“It’s heartening to see the community come together to celebrate food, music, and camaraderie. The festival’s success would not have been possible without the hard work of our team, the participation of talented chefs and musicians, and the enthusiasm of every attendee,” said Mr. Barron, who added; “The festival created a storm on social media, with attendees sharing mouthwatering food pictures, dance videos, and heartfelt testimonials.”

Rock & Roll music promoter Eamonn Doyle said; “Enniscorthy has proved once again why this is a Rock ‘n’ Roll town. We had performers in their teens and Graham Fenton in his 70s, all connected by the sheer passion of Rockin’ music. As a town we have a unique position now in a global culture that has been here for 70 years, here’s to the next 70.”

Festival Organiser Amanda Whitmore thanked everyone for coming along to support the festival and added; “Without the support from our sponsors, we couldn’t put on such a great event. We are grateful for the support of Wexford County Council, Ireland’s Ancient East, Failte Ireland, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Wexford Food Family, Wexbury and Big H Plumbing. “In addition to that, we have so many Friends of the Festival who we thank from the bottom of our hearts for their continued support,” concluded Ms. Whitmore.

Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival 2023 is a good news story that is destined to continue as the energetic organisers promised WexfordLocal.com; “We are committed to making each year bigger and better, promising an even more unforgettable experience in the future.”

Family friendly success at Enniscorthy

  • The evening sun setting on Vinegar Hill following the success of the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival weekend.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy

The heat is turned off, the food shelves are bare, the giant Ferris Wheel is slowing down and the crowds have all gone home leaving a legacy of great memories from this year’s successful Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival at Enniscorthy.

CLLR JOHN O’ROURKE

The big talking point was the massive crowds in Enniscorthy town centre on Saturday and Sunday, the kind not witnessed since the halcyon days of the famous Strawberry Fayre. And despite a dodgy weather forecast for the weekend, the weather was on best behaviour.

The crowds were everywhere. The stalls were thronged throughout both days, the night-time music venues enjoyed ‘packed houses’ and the amusements and the Ferris Wheel were extremely busy.

Chairman of the Festival Committee Eric Barron told WexfordLocal.com that the organisers were delighted at the success of this year’s event. “We had great crowds on both days, and it was a true family friendly festival,” he added.

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr John O’Rourke, who spoke at the official launch in Enniscorthy Castle on Friday night said it was a big success for the town and he complimented the organisers and sponsors for their great work for the town.

CLLR JOHN O’ROURKE, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council comments on the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival.