Wicklow Voice July 30 2015

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wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

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Stolen paintings dumped in ditch

By Michelle McGlynn

THREE paintings valued at €200,00 which were stolen in Wicklow last October have been found dumped in a ditch.

Denis Russell was trimming the hedges at his holiday home in Donard when he came across a black sack which he presumed to be rubbish dumped by a passer-by - a fairly common occurrence. However, the bag actually contained artworks which had been stolen from a home just a few kilometres away on October 22.

There was further good news for the county, after the State conceded that it was not lawful for the National Gallery of Ireland (NGI) to grant export licences for paintings from the Beit collection, which had been kept at Russborough House, to leave Ireland for the UK. In its High Court action, An Taisce had argued that export

licences were granted for the paintings by the NGI, rather than the Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht.

The paintings recovered by Denis Russell are Portrait of a Lady by Sir John Lavery which is worth an estimated €100,000; Landscape with Cottage by Paul Henry which is valued at €50,000 and The Fern in the Area by Jack B Yeats which is estimated to be worth €50,000.

Gardai believe the paintings have been laying in the bushes since the October robbery.

Fortunately, the paintings are understood to be in reasonable condition despite being outside over the winter months.

Russell told the Wicklow Voice that the Yeats painting looked as though it had been slightly damaged and that he ensured they were handled as little as possible before they were turned over to Gardaí.

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04| NEWS news in brief King of Greystones

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

Leinster star marries

The King and Queen of Greystones charity triathlon takes place on August 16 and will raise money for local charities.

Those interested in registering or volunteering should visit www. kingofgreystones.com.

Charabanc exhibition

There will be a free exhibition featuring twenty virtuoso portraits of the Charabanc members which have been created by local artist Dermot Cranny.

The exhibition will take place in Kilcroney Furniture, Bray from September 18-20 from 7pm-9pm on Friday and 10am-5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Horse show competition

Congratulations to the two winners of our Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show competition Kathleen Carraher from Kilcoole and Cecily Mates from Redcross.

We hope you enjoy your day at the races!

Kevin McLaughlin wed Kate Carton in Wicklow. Picture: Facebook

By Michelle McGlynn Rugby star Kevin McLaughlin wed his longterm girlfriend Kate Carton in a picturesque Wicklow ceremony recently.

After saying “I do”, the couple celebrated with family and friends at the five star Druids Glen Resort and Hotel with a splendid reception.

The bride wore an elegant lace gown reminiscent of Kate Middleton’s wedding dress while the groom looked

dashing in his tux.

Kate took to Twitter to share some snaps of the day asking “can we do it again?” as she relived “the most magical day”.

In the photos the couple made use of the stunning Wicklow backdrop, with one picture showing Kate in the distance with the calm blue waters behind.

Several of Kevin’s team mates were in attendance including Rob Kearney, Johnny Sexton and his wife

Laura Priestley, Sean Cronin and his wife Claire, Devin Toner and his fiancee Mary Scott, Jack McGrath and his girlfriend Sinead Corcoran, Fergus McFadden and girlfriend Rebecca Sinnamon.

The newlyweds took a break from wedding stress with a pre-wedding holiday to Ibiza with a group of Kevin’s team mates and their other halves.

Kevin proposed in January of this year after five years together.

Locals urged to ditch Dundrum

By Michelle McGlynn

Shoppers in Wicklow Town have been urged to ditch Dundrum in favour of their local shops.

“Wicklow Chamber has been working very hard to establish Wicklow as a destination Town – the best place to live, to work and to play,” says Wicklow Chamber President Josh McKenna.

“So the next time you’re thinking about heading off to Dundrum or wherever, give Wicklow another thought, you might just be pleasantly surprised.”

Dundrum Town Centre openend 10 years ago and has been blamed for sucking many shoppers out of towns in County Wicklow during the recession.

“Our main streets are the backbone of our communities and a healthy main street means a healthy community,” Mr McKenna added.

Over the past four years, the Chamber has voluntarily run events such as Sailfest, Taste of Wicklow, Santa Parade and Christmas Lights and many more, which have attracted over 65,000 people to the town.

Disease in deer not spreading to other counties

By Michelle McGlynn

A recent study has suggested that the high rate of TB in deer in Wicklow is not spreading to other parts of the country.

Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney, revealed that the pilot survey found that 16% of deer in the Calary area of Wicklow were found to be carrying TB. The pilot study saw 103 deer shot by a licensed deer hunter and the carcasses were then analysed .

Of these, 87 did not carry TB while 16 carcasses had “evidence of M. Bovis” which is a slow-growing, aerobic bacterium and the causative agent of tuberculosis in cattle.

The study does not suggest that TB in deer is nationwide - 17 wild deer in north Sligo, similar to the one carried out in Wicklow, found no evidence of infection with TB, although a small number of positive deer have been detected in isolated instances in different parts of the country.

Recent reports also suggested that TB infection in badgers is also of concern and may well be the source of TB for both cattle and deer.

The Department of Agriculture has passed on the findings to the Irish Deer Management Forum and are waiting on their recommendations.

Responding to a parliamentary question put forward by Deputy Sean Fleming,

Minister Coveney stated, “My Department have emphasised at all times that the findings of this research project refer only to the Calary area of Co Wicklow and there is no suggestion or evidence to support any claim that these findings would be replicated in other areas.”

The parliamentary questions were put forth on behalf of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland who have since said, “Over the last four years 120,000 deer have been culled nationally by deer hunters, of those tested less than 1% tested positive for TB. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Andrew Doyle TD welcomed the study saying, “I wish to acknowledge the input from my colleagues, Ministers Coveney, Hayes and Humphries for their ongoing work to implement an action plan to bring the level of incidence of TB in cattle into line with national average.

“I would also like to pay tribute to former Minister Deenihan who was instrumental in getting this study carried out.”

The Irish Farming Association has called for the implementation of a programme similar to the existing wildlife control programme.

They have called for a “targeted reduction” in deer numbers surrounding TB outbreaks and a national management plan that reduces deer numbers to what is sustainable within their natural habitat.

NEWS |05

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Peggy Hourican, Maureen Durkin, Vincent Barry at the Royal Hotel Bray for the Bray Active Retirement Group coffee morning

Masters and A Grades 1st prize winners from left: Linda Saunders (MC), B.J.O’Brien, Freda Fitzgerald (Contract Bridge Association of Ireland President) and Enda Murphy at the recent Regatta Bridge Night, Wicklow Town

Jenny Dann and Greg Murray the opening night of the Meitheal exhibition at the Signal Arts Centre

Michael Mordaunt and Tony Fennel pictured at the launch of the RNLI Maritime Festival which takes place this weekend in Arklow. (pic Yvette O Beirne)

Julianne Galvin and Romy at the Bray Air Display. Pic: Joe Keogh

Dave Thomas pictured with Elaine Sweeney at the launch of the Arklow Maritime Festival (pic Yvette O Beirne)

Ed and Ethan (10) Place out and about in Greystones.

22 on offenders list

By Michelle McGlynn

There are currently 22 sex offenders being monitored in the Wicklow and South Dublin region.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald revealed the number of sex offenders being monitored across the country under the conditions of a supervision order after being released from prison.

There are 94 sex offenders being monitored in Ireland while approximately 1,000 sex offenders are obliged to notify local gardaí of their addresses when they move to the area and to inform them if they are leaving at any stage.

Terms of post-release supervision may include that the offender must attend psychological counselling or other treatment.

Seán and Odhrán (11) O’Connor in Greystones

06| NEWS news in brief Photo exhibit Greystones Camera Club are holding their 4th annual photo exhibition at Hillside Evangelical Hall from July 30-August 6.

The exhibition is open daily from 10am-5pm.

Property auction The first Leinster Property Auction took place on July 23 at The Clarion Hotel, Dublin.

The auction was a huge success and the team noted significant interest from bidder and buyers from Wicklow.

ConnectIreland Joanna Murphy from Hollywood, Co Wicklow has been appointed as the new CEO of ConnectIreland, effective immediately.

Joanna has a wealth of entrepreneurial experience and prior to joining ConnectIreland founded and ran two companies in the construction and civil engineering space.

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By Michelle McGlynn Don’t be surprised if you spot Chewbacca and Han Solo roaming the Wicklow mountains soon.

As Pinewood Studios comes to Ireland there is widespread speculation that they are scouting locations around the county.

Pinewood - whose forthcoming films include Star Wars Episode VII and Bond film Spectre - have studios around the world and have made the decision to develop another facility in Ireland in response to demand from clients, including Hollywood film studios.

The studio have said that while TV shows such as Penny Dreadful have seen Ireland’s television industry grow enormously, the film industry is lacking Hollywood movies such as Braveheart and Michael Collins, both of which were filmed in Wicklow.

Naoise Barry, who has just been appointed head of production for Pinewood Studios Ireland, said “Pinewood in Ireland has the potential to be a game-changer in that it can contribute to bringing biggerbudget feature films to Ireland.”

Pinewood’s potential move to Wicklow could be made all the more easier after a series of good news stories for the county’s film industry.

Wicklow County Council recently made the historic decision to grant the film industry an

Anyone see a Wookie around here?

Movie giant Pinewood eyeing Wicklow as council drops development levies for studios exemption from development levies in the county. This is a fantastic development for Joe O’Connell, owner of Ashford Studios, who has been pushing

for this decision for over a year.

O’Connell had plans to expand his studio further to three times its current size but said the plans could not proceed if the levies remained in place.

Stephen Donnelly, Social Democrats TD, has congratulated Wicklow’s councillors and officials on the decision.

“Both Ardmore and Ashford Studios are currently at full capacity and are looking at expanding their existing operations.

“The potential knock-on effects of such expansion for the county are immense - we’re talking job creation, additional spend in the local towns and villages, and a real boost to tourism, as Wicklow is showcased around the world via shows like Vikings.”

Ardmore Studios recently launched the Ardmore Film Factory in Bray. The facility on the Southern Cross Road serves

Harrison Ford as Hans Solo and Chewbacca in the forthcoming Star Wars movie, and Liam Neeson in Michael Collins, which was filmed in Wicklow as an extension to the Herbert Road studio and offers clients increased availability of studio and office space.

Meanwhile, Victorian crime drama Ripper Street is to film its upcoming fourth series in

the nearby Kilternan Hotel and Country Club.

Irish production company Element Pictures have struck a deal with the Kilternan’s owners, Luke and Brian Comer, to film at the unfinished property.

More than 1,400 shops nominated

By Michelle McGlynn

Several Wicklow shops have been nominated among the best in the country for the Irish Times Best Shops in Ireland 2015.

Wicklow residents have been voting in droves for local businesses with the Garden County ranking in the top three counties for nominations.

At the time of press, there had been 1,418 nominations submitted for businesses from the county.

It is not surprising that

Wicklow is already leading the way in the Irish Times awards as two shops from the county won their respective categories in 2014.

Juju in Greystones won the title of Best Boutique with judges saying that the store offered everything you would want from a local boutique.

Best Bookshop went to Wicklow Town’s Bridge Street Books who were credited with “keeping a love of books alive in Wicklow Town”.

This year, Italian restaurant Carpe Diem on Albert

Avenue in Bray is among the nominations.

Will the two award winning shops hold on to their titles and will they be joined by a few more Wicklow stores?

Well that is up to you.

If you wish to nominate your favourite local shop in any of the categories you will need to hurry as entries are being accepted for just one more week.

Go online to www.irishtimes. com before August 4 and tell them why you think your local shop is Ireland’s best.

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

advertising |07

08| NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

London, New York ... Enniskerry?

By Michelle McGlynn

YOU normally associate internal spies and the Cold War with the cities of London, New York and Paris but it appears that Wicklow played its part too.

Ex-Enniskerry resident, Frederick Forsyth is set to reveal himself as a former MI6

agent. The author of numerous spy thrillers, Forsyth is known for the realism of his novels as well as his 007-lifestyle.

Forsyth’s father was from Cork, he married an Irishwoman and his two sons were born in Dublin before the family lived in Enniskerry for many years, where he included former

Taoiseach Charles haughey amongst his friends.

Rumours have long circulated about how the 76-year-old former journalist gained inside knowledge of Britain’s overseas spy agency.

It is considered an open secret in the publishing world that in his forthcoming autobiogra-

phy, The Outsider: My Life in Intrigue, Forsyth will confirm that he was once a spy with the Secret Intelligence Service, now MI6. The title itself hints to a revelation of this nature.

Forsyth spent time as a journalist for BBC and Reuters and these real-life experiences certainly provided plenty of

news in brief Family fun day Greystones Tidy Towns are holding their annual family fun day in Burnaby Park on August 3 from 11am to 5pm. For more info see www.greystonestidytowns.ie.

material for his best-selling novels.

The experience of reporting on an attempted assassination of the French president Charles de Gaulle provided him with the inspiration for his debut novel, The Day of the Jackal.

A former RAF jet fighter pi-

lot who spoke fluent German and French and whose job had taken him behind enemy lines in Africa, Forsyth was an ideal recruit for MI6.

With an appetite for danger, Forsyth’s life has often been compared to that of international man of mystery, James Bond.

Stolen paintings dumped in ditch

Farmers in Charge A new RTE show is seeking farmers from County Wicklow to take part in their fresh fun challenge where a farmer will take the helm of an iconic Irish business.

If you’re interested contact Robert from WakaTV on 01 6343700 or robert@wakatv.ie.

Book sale There will be a book sale in the Shankill Old Folks Centre, Lower Road on August 1 from 10am until 1pm. The book sale supports the Shankill Old Folks Association and Meals on Wheels.

School books The second hand school bookshop is open in Bray Recycling Centre, Boghall Road until mid-September.

Primary to Third level books are for sale at great prices, proceeds go to Five Loaves for the Homeless.

Denis Russell shows the paintings he found near his home Continued from front page The works were brought to Garda Headquarters for examination as Gardaí in Baltinglass renewed their appeal for information regarding last year’s burglary.

The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made.

Russell and his wife, both art enthusiasts, are said to be delighted that they can be returned to their rightful owners.

It was Russell’s wife, Bernie Whelan, who first made the connection with her husband’s discovery and last year’s robbery. “My wife Bernie was very excited to see them and so we took a picture because we

thought it’s not every day that you get that close with paintings like these,” Russell said.

Meanwhile, the Beit case has been settled with Minister Heather Humphreys conceding that the department was wrong to delegate the granting of export licences to the NGI. An Taisce are now seeking to have seven of the works, including works by Rubens and Francesco, returned to Ireland.

Two of the paintings had been sold privately while the auction of the other seven was postponed last month.

Following the High Court decision, An Taisce hope the paintings can not be exported from the UK to outside the EU.

WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CHONTAE CHILL MHANTÁIN

M11 WICKLOW THE ROAD TO SUCCESS Delivering: • • • •

Safer journeys Shorter travel times Economic opportunities A showcase for the Garden of Ireland

Congratulations to all involved Drive Safely

NEWS |09

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

New M11 leading ‘to boost’ as €500k earmarked for roads

By Michelle McGlynn

INITIAL figures show that Wicklow has received a significant boost in business and tourism numbers following the opening of the new stretch of M11 motorway.

And following on from the opening of the M11 Arklow/ Rathnew bypass, an additional €548,950 has been allocated for local roads in Wicklow.

This forms part of an additional €100 million investment in Transport Tourism and Sport, of which €34m nationally is going towards maintaining and maintaining and strengthening our national, regional and local roads network with €60m going towards public transport.

“Infrastructure is pivotal to economic success and is vitally important in Wicklow, given our varied landscape throughout the County which is so central to our tourism sector. Since the

economic collapse, there has been under investment in roads and public transport. With the economy recovering, there is now scope to increase funding and to reinvest in this critical infrastructure,” Fine Gael TD Andrew Doyle has sais.

“An additional €4.2 million will be allocated nationally to tourism related projects, including further development of Ireland’s Ancient East Corridor, that Wicklow is part of, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Indeed this is very welcome news as the total overseas trips to Ireland for the first six months of 2015 were up by 12% on the corresponding period in 2014.”

Speaking about the new M11 stretch, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr John Ryan said “The new road will also help to grow business in County Wicklow and provide opportunities for economic development.

“This new motorway will open up the whole of County Wicklow and allow visitors to discover all that the Garden County has to offer.

“In excess of 20,000 Wicklow residents travel outside the county to work on a daily basis, with the new road infrastructure in place, we now have the capacity to reverse that trend.”

The Cathaoirleach also welcomed the safer driving conditions provided by the road and dedicated the stretch of motorway to the memory of the 33 people who lost their lives on the road over the past 25 years.

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Mr Bryan Doyle said, “The upgrading of this section of the N11 has been the number one objective for Wicklow County Council’s road infrastructure since the opening of the Rathnew/Ashford bypass in 2004.”

10 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Do we need another new party?

T

he announcement in July

by Wicklow TD Stephen Donnelly (together with Roisin Shorthall and Catherine Murphy) of the establishment of a new political party, the Social Democrats (SDs), set alarm bells ringing for me. I have every respect for Stephen Donnelly, think he is an excellent politician and capable parliamentarian, but this latest move could ultimately be a backward step for him.

I just don’t think the country needs another new political party, barely six months after the most recent - Renua Ireland (who’s deputy leader is Wicklow TD Billy Timmins) - arrived on an already crowded scene. Also, I think Stephen as an Independent has been very effective, and not just at constituency level. This effectiveness, through no fault of his, mightn’t translate through to a party situation.

The three founders of the Social Democrats spoke at the launch of the need for a ‘’new political approach’’. I agree with them entirely, it’s just that personally I don’t see why we need new political parties to achieve this. The existing political parties aren’t going away. 2011 didn’t kill off Fianna Fail and even the Green Party are back on the scene. Would ‘a new political approach’ not be better served by working to take control of the existing political parties, as Garrett Fitzgerald or Dick Spring achieved in the 70’s and 80’s.

Tony Blair’s revolutionising of the UK’s ailing Labour Party in the 90’s is probably an even better example.

I’ve seen all this before with the Progressive Democrats 30 years ago. Desmond O’Malley wanted to ‘break the mould’ of Irish politics when they were set up in 1985. Ultimately they just became subsumed into the system they wanted to change. Becoming part of a coalition government compromised their ideals and they suffered at the polls. The same happened to the Greens even though they were a longer-established political entity when they achieved power. Look too at the Liberal Democrats across the water, cast aside by the Tories and scapegoated by the electorate. The best the Social Democrats could hope for is coalition. It doesn’t take a genius to work out how that will end for them. Or Renua Ireland, for that matter, if they got into the same position.

A lot of what the SDs said at the launch resonated with me. The need for a more open government, a better understanding

OPINION| 11

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

of what it takes to make businesses successful and a buy-in to a more meaningful social vision for our scoiety going forward.

My suggestion for achieving this, and I’ve said it before in this column, is for the voters to set the agenda with all these items come the next election. Don’t just answer the door (or not) to politicians in 2016 and let them tell you what they are going to do. Instead engage with them and tell them what you want them to do. They’ll get the message pretty quick.

Forming a new political party is a time of optimism for those involved. But this wears off. Leaders and top-tables have to be established. Funding has to be secured.

You have to play the game you are trying to change, before you can get into power to change it. By then it is too late, you are already compromised.

Thinking a bit more abstractly, the real logical progression for our political system would be further integration into Europe, with less power residing nationally and more being handed over to Brussels.

Less politicians domestically and less in-party fighting. Europe controlling the economic and financial direction for the member states, with domestic governments looking after more local, cultural and social matters. I can’t see this being achieved anytime soon or without difficulty, but logically it is where we should be heading.

Brian Quigley is a native of Wicklow

I just don’t think the country needs another new political party, barely six months after the most recent Renua Ireland - arrived on an already crowded scene

“I

Bar-stool lawyers don’t want to hear that, of course.

Like bar-stool economists, they prefer clouds to silver linings

Tweets of the week

Gerry McBride @GerryMcBride “Juan, my teenage son. You must go on a quest to Ireland this summer. Learn what you can of their public transport. Bring all your friends.”

Anthony McGuinness @anthonymcg “Companies who still have fax numbers. Really?! Who are you expecting one from?

The past?!”

Ruthe Phoenix @RuthePhoenix “I’m not religious but I like to go to church to point at priests and shout ‘You’re not my real dad!’”

Louise O’Neill @oneillo “I want Colin Farrell to read erotic fiction to me. I want him to narrate my whole goddamn life story, even if it is in George Hook’s voice.”

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anyotherbusiness

with Brian Quigley with Michael Wolsey

Have you got a story?

Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie

We’re very happy but hide it well

’m sitting at a bar, sipping an early evening pint and reading a morning newspaper, there being no evening newspapers any more, I’m sorry to say. The news is depressing: water protests, trouble in the Middle East, divisions in the EU. I’m happy to let my attention wander to two guys putting the world to rights at the other end of the bar. But things are no better down their way. They are a pair of moaners. They moan about the weather and the state of football, the perfidy of politicians and the leniency of the law courts.

They moan about crime, which is out of control, and the price of just about everything, which has gone through the roof.

Well, if it’s moaning I want, the newspaper does it better. I turn back to that and ... whoa ...can this be true?

“Happy days as nation satisfied with life,”says the headline.

The story deals with a Central Statistics Office survey which shows that threequarters of the Irish population rank their satisfaction with life as high or very high.

And, though you’d never guess it from a bar stool in Bray, the happiest people of all are in this part of the country where 49 per cent of folk rate their satisfaction with life as ‘high’ and 25 per cent as “very high”.

The Border region, with 48.5%, is our nearest rival in the ‘high’ league but the overwhelming majority of Irish people everywhere come across as pretty content with their lot.

And, contrary to my ramblings above, that is really no great surprise because I regularly see surveys that show us to be the happiest, clappiest people in the EU, the OECD or the known universe.

So are we lying to each other - or just to the people who conduct surveys?

Whoever has the right of it, it’s not these two moaners at the end of the bar.

I can’t vouch for politicians and hurling is a matter of opinion but, depressing though it sometimes seems, the weather is not getting worse.

With the exception of last year, recent summers have been pretty wet and many will swear that 2013 was the wettest and windiest ever. But the records show 2008 was worse and that comes only seventh on a dismal list of soggy summers compiled since 1914.

Almost everyone believes that crime is on the rise and has been since Sherlock Holmes retired. But the facts say otherwise.

A survey of crime since 1950 shows a pattern of ups and downs, with rates falling in the 1950s, rising sharply in the 1970s and 80s and then falling back again. There are spikes in some types of crime, depending on the priorities of the Garda and their political masters, but the overall increase has been in line with the population and, as the report by the Institute of Criminology, notes “the Republic of Ireland has a low level of recorded crime when looked at in an international context”.

Bar-stool lawyers don’t want to hear that, of course. Like bar-stool economists, they prefer clouds to silver linings.

There is an unshakeable public conviction that prices move in just one direction; the only way is up. In fact, relative to wages, the cost of nearly everything has come down in the last half century.

Prices for some things have fallen dramatically. Take socks. I bought five pairs in a supermarket recently. They cost me €4. That’s 80c a pair, 40c a sock.

(Actually, they cost €3.98, but my maths aren’t up to that sort of long division).

Take ballpoint pens. In the same shop I could have bought 10 of them for €1.20 – 12c a pen (even my maths are able for that one).

Take watches. Online I can buy one that is billed as an “analog quartz gents with black strap’’ for €2.43, a sum which the website tells me also covers “free shipping’’. A “bracelet sports automatic’’ for a child sells at €1.99 with the same “free shipping’’ thrown in.

It’s difficult to draw direct price comparisons with ten, 20 or 30 years ago.

But there was a time when even cheap watches were dear enough to justify repair by jewellers skilled in the trade; when people bought refills for ordinary ballpoint pens and darned the holes in their socks.

Today it is cheaper to replace than repair.

That may not be a wise policy. But it does make for a considerably easier life. We don’t draw these comparisons very often. When we’re moaning to our mates, we don’t concede them at all.

But, for all our complaints, we know them to be true. That’s why we’re very happy.

Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sat on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.

focus on faces Sharon Shannon Musician How’s life?

Life is great right now!

You have been very busy this summer, even stepping in for Sinead O’Connor last minute at the Galway Arts Festival. What is your favourite thing about festival season?

I was very sorry to hear that Sinead was unwell and I was on a day off myself and luckily all the band members were also available, it was nice to be able to help out and always great to play a show at the Galway Arts Festival, especially the Big Top! What’s great about festival season is that the Galway Arts Festival at the Big Top (capacity 3000) was sandwiched between Ortegueira Festival in Spain (the biggest free festival in Europe, 15,000 audience) and a 300 capacity festival at Ballykeefe Amphitheatre in Co. Kilkenny, a really beautifully designed outdoor show, so you get lots of variety!

Seamus Thomas at the Bray Air Display which attracted a record 90,000 spectators. This year’s Summerfest wraps up this weekend with a Smash Hits concert on the bandstand on Sunday and a fireworks display on Monday night. Pic: Joe Keogh

Drive safely - summer is most dangerous time

P

eople always find it surprising when we say that summertime is the most dangerous time of the year to use the road.

People assume that there are more risks in the wintertime because of the poor weather, poor road conditions and more hours of darkness.

It’s actually these obvious risks that make winter safer. We are more cautious when faced with the challenges of using the road in winter. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days brighter, we relax our guard.

In the last five years 256 people have died in June, July and August. Over the next three months it is likely that we will lose another 51 lives. If last year’s pattern of fatalities is repeated this will probably mean that vulnerable road users will be disproportionately represented. Cyclists and pedestrians, particularly children and older people, will be among this number. Motorcyclists will account for a proportion. There will be driver and passenger deaths too.

The failure to wear a seatbelt

Brian Farrell will, sadly, probably be a factor in some.

From the June Bank Holiday weekend onwards we simply cannot afford to let our guard down. The roads are going to be very busy with local festivals, sporting events and people travelling the length and breadth of the country for a break. More people will be out walking and cycling.

There will also be an increase in the number of tractors using the road. Especially as silage cutting season gets under way in the coming weeks.

If stuck behind a tractor, please, please be patient and don’t be tempted into any foolish or rash overtaking. Lookout for farm machinery leaving fields and farm yards.

Farmers need to be safety con-

scious too. If the traffic is building up behind, keep left where safe to allow others pass safely.

If you are planning on holidaying at home it’s only natural for a driver getting in the holiday mood to relax the guard.

But when combined with driving on unfamiliar roads, it can be a dangerous mix. We should also be aware that we will be sharing the roads this summer with foreign tourists who may not be used to driving on the left.

When towing another vehicle, including a caravan or maybe a boat trailer remember that it will affect the way the car performs.

Caravans increase the fuel consumption of a car, decrease its acceleration and braking ability, and can affect a vehicle’s general control. Remember, a vehicle speed limit of 80km/h applies towing vehicles. Fit extension mirrors so you have adequate unobstructed vision in both car door wing mirrors.

Plan frequent breaks to avoid tiredness. If you are travelling on the Friday of the June or August Bank Holiday, Applegreen will provide free cups of coffee to drivers between 2pm and 8pm at any of their 17 participating service stations. Simply mention the ‘RSA’ at the till

and they give you a free cup of coffee.

There is a spike in pedestrian, cyclist and motorcyclist casualties over the summer. The fine weather brings more people out to get some fresh air and exercise. As drivers we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.

A concern this year, as with the previous two years, is the number of motorcycle fatalities. Half of all crashes involving motorcyclists are caused by other drivers. We really need to be on the look-out for motorcyclists. The rule of thumb should be, look once for cars and look twice for bikes. This is especially important when turning at a junction, overtaking and when joining a major road from a minor one.

When the weather is warm, it’s tempting to wear jeans and a t-shirt when you’re motorcycling. But if not wearing proper gear, you risk horrific injuries if you come off the bike. Every time you get on a bike, wear proper protective equipment.

Brian Farrell is a spokesperson for the Road Safety Authority

Your upcoming gig at the Mermaid Arts Centre will be much more intimate in comparison. Do you prefer a smaller venue?

I like to play all types of venues, it’s generally the reaction of the audience that is memorable to me. I played the Mermaid some years back with a different line up and I remember it was a great night.

Have you any plans to record soon or are you focusing on touring at the moment?

The show I’m doing at The Mermaid is with Alan Connor, he is a great multi-instrumentalist and singer and we have just released a CD/DVD of this show called In Galway. We have been working on that for a couple of years.

When you first began playing did you ever imagine that you would have the chance to perform all over the world?

I’m so lucky to still be earning a living from playing music, it’s great to be paid for doing what you like.

You are a patron for MADRA (Mutts Anonymous Dog Rescue & Adoption). How did you become involved with them?

Madra are a fantastic organisation based in Galway. Marina Fiddler founded Madra and she has a great passion for animals. I do as much as I can to help.

Aside from playing, what do you like to do to unwind?

I walk my 8 dogs (that takes up A LOT of time!) I also like to swim in the summer. I have been a vegetarian for many years and I have recently adopted a vegan diet so I’m learning to cook vegan recipes. I also help out some animal rescues and I am a patron of Building of Hope a charity based in Ennis Co. Clare that are involved in building projects in Kenya.

Sharon Shannon is an Irish musician best known for her abilities with the accordion and fiddle. Her 1991 album Sharon Shannon is the best-selling album of traditional Irish music ever released. Aside from Irish folk music, there are many influences in her music, from reggae and Cajun music to hip hop. As a solo musician, Sharon has toured Australia, Europe, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Sharon will be performing in the Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray on August 8 at 8pm. Tickets are €25 and are available online at www.mermaidartscentre or by calling 01 2724030.

1 2 3 4 5

12 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE

with Justin Ivory

A “tiny” ready for its BTO ring.

Photos by JC Ivory

Colour-ringed Terns Last issue we reported on the phenomenal success of the Kilcoole Little Tern Colony with the best results in its’ 30 year history.

This week we stick with the terns to report on the ringing schemes being used at the colony.

Newly hatched chicks (“tinys”) are fitted with a BTO (British Trust of Ornithology) metal ring when they are 1 day old.

Each ring has an individual id number.

One issue with these small metal rings is it is virtually impossible to read the number from a distance even with the aid of a telescope.

To combat this a new colour-ringing scheme was initiated last year at Kilcoole and Baltray.

When the chicks are about 10 days old (“chunkys”) they are fitted with a larger plastic green colour-ring.

These rings have an individual three letter inscription and are large enough to be easily read with a telescope. The green colour and the letter I at the start of the inscription indicates the vird is from Ireland.

The new colour-rings being used at Kilcoole

The position of the colourring on the left leg indicates the bird is from Kilcoole.

Little Terns at the Baltray colony get the rings on their right leg.

The colour-ringing scheme is only entering its second year and as Little Terns do not reach breeding maturity until 2 years old, no ringed adults are expected back at the colony next year.

In the meantime results from the first year of ringing showed Kilcoole juvenile terns turning up on the south coast of England, Brittany and near Lisbon on their first migration to West Africa after fledging. Can’t wait for next year to see how many return home to breed!

Exciting times ahead!

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

Fundraiser of the week 5k Sumo Run Bray Seafront, www.sumorun.ie, August 23, midday Bray is looking to break a world record as it hosts Ireland’s very first Sumo Run. This fun charity event will raise some vital funds for Purple House Cancer Support. Participants will don inflatable sumo suits and run a 5k route along the seafront. It is also a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest gathering of people dressed as sumo wrestlers in the same area. Entries for the run cost €34.99 per person or €119 for a team of four. Included in the price is your sumo suit - which is yours to keep - entry to the race and post-race refreshments. Enter online at www.sumorun.ie. Closing date for entries is midnight on August 16. Entrants will be provided with a sponsorship card. The run is open to over 10’s but there will be a free fancy dress run for younger children. Pictured with Sinead Desmond at the event launch are Rachel Murray, Scarlett Glynn (11), Max Duggan (11) and Evan Masterson. Pic by Joe Keogh.

Event of the week Drive-in cinema with A Plus Services Skirmish, Roundwood, August 8, 9.15pm A Plus Services in Bray wanted to thank their customers for their support over the years and had the unique idea to treat them to a drive-in cinema night. The service centre have teamed up with Underground Cinema to offer some lucky clients a night at the drive-in completely free of charge. They have chosen to screen classic flick Back to the Future - a film the whole family can enjoy. As there will not be food and drinks on sale at the Roundwood venue, those attending are free to load up the car with as many treats as they desire. If you would like to be treated to a fun night out then hurry up and apply as spaces are limited. Any existing customer who has had a service or any other major work done over the past 18 months can apply for a space. Simply email darren@aplusservice.ie with your details.

book of the week Lost Between

By Liz McManus and various others An event in Co Wicklow history has inspired the literary work of writer and former TD Liz McManus. Her short story Liverpool/Lampedusa is based on the emigration of large numbers of people from South Wicklow who escaped the Famine by travelling to America under the guidance of Father Hore. It also has a contemporary focus on the plight of boat people who risk their lives to get to European shores today. Liverpool/Lampedua is part of a collection of short stories on the theme of displacement entitled Lost Between. The collection includes the work of Irish writers and Italian writers, including Liz McManus.

The Italian language version of this collection will be published in October 2015 by Guanda publishers. Liz is currently a participant in the Italian-Irish Literature Exchange (IILE) , an intercultural initiative. This is the first time that writers’ works have been compiled into one published anthology.

TV SHOW of the week Last Man on Earth Dave, Monday The apocalyptic comedy series hits our screens this month. Led by the always fantastic Will Forte, the series is set in 2020 where a deadly virus has wiped out the population.

Bored bank employee Phil Miller believe he is the only human left.

Phil initially enjoys this alone time, driving around the country in his RV, leaving messages on billboards, befriending balls with faces

Parenting course of the week Parent First Aid St Patrick’s Parish Hall, Greystones, September 17, 7.30pm Parent First Aid will be coming to Greystones and parents are being encouraged to sign up for the course. Parent First Aid was established to offer medical emergency instruction at local level and at times that suit busy lives. The course is run by qualified First Aid trainers. The two-hour course has been designed for busy parents, companies and carers of children who don’t have time for a full day of training. The course focuses on the following critical subjects: baby/toddler CPR, baby/toddler choking, burns/ scalds, meningitis and seizures among other areas. The course fee is €30 per person. Full details on courses and locations can be found at www.parentfirstaidireland.com and founder Peter Finnegan can be contacted at parentfirstaid@gmail.com.

doodled on them. But eventually loneliness begins to take hold. Just as he is about to end it all, he meets Carol (Kristen Schaal) - an eccentric, shrill and nagging woman from Delaware. It’s not long before Phil wishes he really was the last man on earth. Thankfully the pair stumble upon some other surviving humans, a beautiful blonde estate agent Melissa (January Jones) and Todd (Mel Rodriguez). The show has been a huge hit so far and has already been renewed for a second season.

6 7 8 9 10

WHAT’S HOT| 13

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Tom Cruise returns as secret agent Ethan Hunt in the breathless fifth instalment of the Mission: Impossible franchise. The Impossible Mission Force (IMF) is in danger. Their agents are being systematically wiped out by a deadly organisation known only as the Syndicate.

Moreover, no one is willing to acknowledge that these mysterious assassins even exist. Ethan Hunt (Cruise) must get his team back together and destroy the Syndicate before it’s too late. Cruise leaps back into action for the explosive fifth Mission: Impossible film. Having scaled Dubai’s Burj Khalifa in the previous film, the famously fearless actor now takes his stuntwork to the next level, with one especially jaw-dropping scene seeing him clinging to the outside of an airborne plane. Series regulars Simon Pegg and Ving Rhames are joined by a returning Jeremy Renner and Rebecca Ferguson.

HOROSCOPES

Festival of the week Arklow Maritime Festival South Quay, Arklow, July 31-August 2 Get ready for a packed weekend of family fun with the Arklow Maritime Festival which kicks off on July 31 with the Maritime King and Queen evening at Arklow Sailing Club. On Saturday there’s the Viking Boat Racing, the Viking Landing and more down at the Lifeboat station. On Sunday there will be all kinds of family events down by the quayside. Two special attractions

this year are the Irish Naval vessel, L.E. Ciara which arrives on Friday afternoon and will be open to the public over the weekend. There will also be two Viking Longships direct from the Vikings tv series. Local artist Denise Brennan has launched a single called Sailing in the Wind, all proceeds from the sale of the single will go to Arklow Lifeboat. It is available via iTunes and people are encouraged to download it to help raise money for this great cause. Pictured is an Ardglass Viking longship.

Aries- This week is an 8 Accept support. A partner’s opinion is important. Romance blooms through communication.

Make plans and dreams. You can have what you work for.

Taurus- This week is a 9 Express your love as well as your concern. Others are impressed. Focus on getting the job done.

Gemini- This week is a 5 Fun rules. Play with family and friends. Learn from young people. Take responsibility as needed. Apply discipline.

Cancer- This week is a 6 Changes at home hold your focus. Release worries and fears.

Laughter is the best medicine.

Speak your mind. Strengthen community bonds.

Exhibition of the week Chaney by Orla Callaghan Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, August 6-29, 10am-5pm

Leo- This week is an 8 Things are starting to make sense. Dig deeper into a fascinating subject. Read other perspectives. Ask questions.

Articulate a vision and share it.

Carnew based artist Orla Callaghan is the artist in residence at the Courthouse Arts Centre for the month of August. During her residency, Orla will create an installation which centres on a collection of shards of pottery, or chaney, collected by the artist from the fields near her home in Carnew. Using techniques of felt making, the shards will be enclosed in a floor piece and combined with other constructive elements to evoke the environment of the fields. This work is intended to reflect on the relationship between people and the land, the local practice of agriculture over the years and its primal role in human existence. The work is an invitation for us to consider how we use land and the wildness in nature when it comes to pollination and other activities that produce food. The public are encouraged to come and observe and engage with the artist as she works on the installation.

Virgo- This week is an 8 Speak up. Your view matters.

Take the lead, and encourage others to play. Solve a tricky problem. Cash flow improves with a new revenue source.

GIG of the week One Horse Pony Hot Spot Music Club, Beach House, Greystones Harbour, August14, 9pm One Horse Pony is a harddriving acoustic blues band based on the south coast of Ireland featuring musicians from Ireland, France and Poland. Their unique line-up of guitars, harmonica, double-bass, bodhran and low whistle inspires their fresh take on the blues, while their original material and energetic live

Race of the week The Lakes 10k Blessington Lakes, September 5, 11am The Lakes 10k is an extremely popular annual run that takes place along a scenic route around the Blessington Lakes. Now in its seventh year, the run has been set for September 5. The event is run under Athletics Ireland permit and features accurate course measurement, chip timing, fully marshalled junctions, water station, excellent goodie bags and the now famous finisher muffins. The race is limited to 600 participants and has sold out every year so early entry is advised. You can register online at www. thelakes10k.ie and will cost €20. This year the race is proud to have Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind as its charity partner. Entrants will be provided with a sponsorship card which is encouraged but not compulsory.

performances have won them fans from around the world. OHP combine superb musicianship, fivepart harmonies and fire ‘n’ brimstone lyrics with uncompromising drive to deliver their signature style of acoustic blues. The band are coming to Greystones this month as part of their tour and will continue their monthly residency in Whelan’s, Dublin. Tickets are €8 in advance and €10 on the door.

Libra- This week is a 9 Handle personal issues. Enjoy peace, quiet and beauty. Ease into a new situation. Take on leadership. You’re getting stronger.

Scorpio- This week is a 6 Relax and take things slow.

Careful attention to detail saves time later. Consider ramifications and consequences of planned actions.

Sagittarius- This week is a 7 You have more friends than you realised. Pass along what you’re learning. You may choose to organise a team to help you do it all.

Capricorn- This week is an 8 Synchronise efforts with your team to avoid wasted energy. Write, connect and communicate. Prepare to maintain a busy pace.

Aquarius- This week is a 9 You talk a good game. Travel and romance both look good.

Your wanderlust is getting worse. Things fall into place.

Pisces- This week is a 7 Play by the rules to grow.

Invest in your business.

Manage accounting. Take stock to measure the game you’re playing.

14 | LIFESTYLE

my favourite things

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

food

WHAT’s HOT

with Mairead Vickers info@wicklowvoice.ie

Debs season is in full swing once again, and as the most highly anticipated social event in most Leaving Cert students’ year, finding the ideal outfit is naturally, of utmost importance! With such a vast array of styles to choose from, it can prove a challenge finding that extra special ensemble, but by following what suits your body shape, accessorising accordingly and having a little fun with it, your fancied Fairytale moment can come true!

Purple Noni maxi dress, €399, Monsoon ‘Lisa’ High heel sandals Carvela €143 ‘Blossom’ Embellished clutch Untold €65 Both available at House of Fraser Tuxedo and dinner suits from €240, both Topman Mairead Vickers Styling Covering a wide range of Image Consulting & Fashion Styling services; MV Styling offers a one-stop shop for your complete wardrobe needs.

Enquiries to info@ maireadvickers.com

Debs season

LIFESTYLE| 15 Peter Byrne

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel

Victoria Plum Tarte Tatin with a cinnamon ice cream

Victoria Plum Tarte Tatin For 2 portions 4 Victoria plums 200g caster sugar 150g unsalted butter 1 sheet rolled puff pastry Make a direct caramel with the sugar then slowly beat in the butter being careful not to split the caramel.

Cover the bottom of the non stick moulds with the caramel and leave to cool down.

Quarter the plums, removing the stones and place 6-8 pieces skin down in the moulds.

Roll out the puff pastry to 3-4 mm thick then cut out a little bigger than the moulds and cover the plums with it.

Bake in the oven at 180oc for 20 – 25 minutes

or until the pastry is crisp and cooked, and the caramel is dark brown.

Cinnamon Ice Cream 100g sugar 5 Yolks 3 cinnamon sticks (crushed) 200ml cream 200ml Milk Bring the milk, cream and cinnamon to the boil.

Whisk together the yolks and sugar and slowly pour the boiling cream onto it.

Pour the mix into a clean pan and heat until it just boils.

Pass onto an ice bath and chill.

Once cold churn and leave it to freeze for a couple of hours.

16 |SPECIAL REPORT

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

hair restoration

Direct Hair Implantation Ireland Suite 12, Beacon Consultants Concourse, Beacon Court, Sandyford, Dublin 18, 01 5988200, www.dhi.ie DHI Ireland is the first clinic in Ireland to offer ground breaking ‘no Touch Technique’.

No linear scars, no strips, no scalpels. DHI, the world leader in the treatment of hair and scalp disorders is now offering the innovative and state-of theart hair restoration treatment - a fast, simple and painless procedure due to the use of local anaesthetic. The DHI approach

to treating hair loss transcends traditional transplants and hair restoration surgery. Resulting from thorough research and testing, the unique hair restoration procedure is more refined and less invasive than ever before. Hair from the donor area is expertly extracted and then placed at the precise location and direction dictated by the recipient area without prior incision to the skin. DHI boasts 45 years experience and has a network of over 40 clinics across the globe. Contact the clinic to arrange a free no obligation consultation.

Universal Hair and Scalp Clinic 3 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, 01 6793618, www. universalhairclinic.ie The Universal Hair and Scalp Clinic offers treatment for those experiencing complaints of the hair and scalp through a

specialised and complete clinical service. In particular, a treatment is available that effectively combats hair loss in both men and women and is exclusive to the clinic for over 50 years. The clinic provides hair and scalp treatments and products to combat hair loss, thinning hair and related problems such as dandruff, dry skin flakes, itching and dry or oily scalp as well as alopecia

and psoriasis in both men and women. Once treatment is commenced you can be assured of thicker, healthier hair, and the cessation of associated problems such as those mentioned above.

MHR Clinic 400 North Circular Road, Dublin 7, 01 4410860, www. mhrclinicireland.com MHR exclusively offer clients the FUE hair transplant method which is a very safe, minimally invasive, relatively minor procedure. The benefits of the FUE method is minimal discomfort, no scalpel incision,

no sutures, no linear scar, little to no risk of complications, quick recovery time, fewer activity limitations and a more natural looking result than traditional strip methods (patients can wear their hair short without an unsightly scar). They also offer the commonly preferred FUT or “strip” method. MHR are an independent company who work for the client, not the clinic. They guarantee very specific measures that ensure you that you will get the best proven innovation and most efficient methods for the FUE procedure.

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

SPECIAL REPORT| 17

18 | NEWS wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

Bray is truly booming at the moment as new businesses continue to open their doors on the Main Street.

Bray is reaping the benefits of the recent multi-million euro revamp as the local economy continues to go from strength to strength.

Summerfest has done a great job of showcasing all the town has to offer by attracting thousands of visitors to the area.

This year’s Air Display saw a record 90,000 visitors flock to the seafront to enjoy a fantastic family day out.

Beyond the seafront, Bray has seen several new businesses opening their doors in recent months.

Andrew McElroy Hair Concepts is one such new business.

The award-winning salon offers clients exceptional service and you are sure to leave with a show stopping style.

Visitors to Bray can enjoy a warm family-friendly stay in The Royal Hotel.

The hotel is ideally located at the heart of the town and includes the Merrill Leisure Club and Spa.

SPECIAL REPORT| 19

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

The bright lights of Bray Head to Reads for the best value in town

Back to school for less at Copy Books Pencils Rubbers Hardback Books Calculators Pritt stick Ring Binders

Ray, Lily (6) and Maisey (4) Blake out and about in Bray When craving a pizza, Apache Pizza is the only place to go with their great value offers and delicious food.

In the mood for a drink and a spot of live music? Well then get down to Goldsmiths where you can enjoy one of their drinks specials and a friendly atmosphere.

Mermaid Arts Centre have plenty of must-see shows scheduled all year round, keep an eye on their monthly programme to keep up with what’s on.

Paddy Stack and Sons are a traditional family butchers who

LOWEST PRICES GUARANTEED

offer top quality produce at great prices. Town Hall Electric provide the best sales, spares and repair service for domestic electrical appliances.

If you’re looking for a helping hand to kick your smoking habit then pop in to EcoVape and see how they can help you take the first step today.

Floors and Carpets Direct have a wide variety of carpet, timber and vinyl flooring options to suit every home and budget. Get a free estimate and measuring service with no obligation to buy.

l l l l l l l

Of Bray Pencil Cases Notebooks Rulers Pens Highlighters Plastic Folders Display Books

l l l l l l l

Reads of Bray

103 Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow Phone: 01-5175963 Branches also at Sandyford, Dun Laoghaire & Setanta Centre Nassau Street

sharon shannon

Saturday 8 August €25

Mondays

STEAK NIGHT ONLY5 €2 O FOR TW

luka bloom friday 14 August €18 or €16 concession

The Royal Hotel & Merrill Leisure Club Main Street, Bray Co. Wicklow

main street, bray 01 2724030 www.mermaidartscentre.ie

T: (01) 2862935 or (01)2724900 sales@royalhotel.ie www.royalhotel.ie

At Reads of Bray this year we have an amazing range of back to school stationery and art supplies for all ages.

Lots of Special offers on packs of pads and hardback books plus School bags and pencil cases for all ages.

See our new fantastic new smash range of lunchboxes and bottles.

Owner of Reads of Bray Niall Mescall has made sure that the range is wide and very well priced to allow for the expensive time of year.

Reads are well aware that there is a lot of outgoings and have advised us that if any parents have multiple kids in back to school so they have reflected this is the special offers You can email in your list to

braybooks@reads.ie or drop in and the staff will help you with your purchases.

Also for the month of August if you spend over €50 on any stationery or art supplies purchase they will give a free €5.00 book voucher that can be used before Christmas.

Remember you could pay more elsewhere but why should you.

JUST ARRIVED

NEW SCHOOLBAGS RANGE

Want to place an ad? email info@wicklowvoice.ie

20 | ADVERTISING wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

SPECIAL REPORT| 21

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

The bright lights of Bray

Matt Britton

the boys are back in town Matt Britton and his team have returned to their roots as they have opened a new store in Bray.

The team celebrated the official opening of their fifth store on July 25 by offering one lucky customer the chance to win free carpet for stairs, landing and three bedrooms.

“We are extremely happy to be back in Bray,” Craig Britton (pictured) told the Wicklow Voice.

“The team would like to express our appreciation to all of our customers and the local community for their support.

“We were delighted with the turnout and the warm welcome we received at our recent

Bray Teamwear Tracksuits Track Pants Nylon Jackets Hoodies

Retail €65.00 €25.00 €30.00 €19.00

SALE €10.00 €7.50 €8.00 €6.00

Full printing and Embroidery available. Phone John on:

087 2858088

Buying?

Selling?

Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565

launch.” Brothers Matt and Craig founded the business in 1997 and have enjoyed great success and have stores in Kilcoole, Dundrum, Terenure, Deansgrange and now Bray again. From the first visit to

their showroom to the installation of your new floor, there are experts on hand to offer their expertise every step of the way.

At Matt Britton Carpets, they guarantee professionally crafted, competitively priced and

perfectly installed carpets and flooring.

Drop in to their brand new showroom at Unit A2 Oldcourt Industrial Estate, Boghall Road, Bray, Co Wicklow or call 01 2760021.

22 | SPORT

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015

sport in brief

great start with their first match on July 15.

The lads came away strong winners against Newtown.

AGB Club gear is available at great prices.

Some lovely new gear included for 2015.

Check out AGB Facebook page for pictures.

Contact Kerry on 087 3287881 to order.

If you’re interested in taking part in Scór in 2015 contact Kathryn on 086 8664931 or kathryn_noone@yahoo.co.uk (club members and non-club members welcome).

An Tochar On July 16 the Mens Junior B team played their first championship game in Laragh versus Kiltegan.

Unfortunately they lost by four points on a scoreline of 13 points 1-6.

It took the lads a few minutes to get to grips with the championship pace but from the tenth to the 25th minute they were on top except for the scoreboard.

Kiltegan finished the half a lot stronger and were much more clinical with their point scoring and led by 8 points to 4 at half time.

The lads started very strong in the second half but again were wasteful in front of goal while Kiltegan kept the scoreboard moving.

Huge credit to our lads when the chips were down they kept fighting and were rewarded with a beautiful goal taken calmly by Jack Mockler.

There should have been a second soon after but it was not to be.

An Tochar lost the game to a very strong and experienced Kiltegan team in a tough but sporting game.

Ten minors made their adult championship debut and they will have learned a lot from this

Pictured are some of the Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney U8 and U10 girls who took part in the Seabreeze tournament on July 18 game. There has been a great response to the call for U8 and U10 hurlers.

Training began mid-June and the improvement and enthusiasm from the two teams has been fantastic.

Keep up the good work!

Training continues Wednesday evenings 6-7pm.

Remember shin guards, hurl and helmet if you have one, there are a few to borrow.

Also if anyone has any hurling helmets that they no longer use or would like to donate or sell, please get in touch.

Well done to North District on the victory vs Tinahely in the SFC especially to our own lads, Peter, Eoghan, Gavin, Liam,

Brendan, Ger, Conor and Bill.

Arklow Geraldines Tickets are now on sale for the forthcoming attraction The Cube.

The event is in the Arklow Bay Hotel on August 8 and promises to be the experience of the year.

With many Arklow businesses, associations, not to mention clubs, competing to beat The Cube it looks as if it will be a sell-out.

Tickets are €10 and can be bought from any committee member and are on sale in the Arklow Bay Hotel and the GAA Office in Pearse’s Park.

AGB U8 and U10 girls

Bray Wanderers took part in the Seabreeze tournament on July 18 (pictured above).

The U10 girls reached the second place final where they defeated Tinahely.

The U8 girls had great matches with Clonee of Camolin and Castletown as part of the Seabreeze Festival.

Evenly matched teams ensured great entertainment for the spectators.

A great day was had by all in glorious sunshine and some great football from our girls.

All girls received well deserved medals afterwards for their great efforts.

Thanks a lot to Terry and all organisers, Deirdre, Mairead and all the catering helpers.

Thanks to all the parents who put on an amazing spread of beautiful sandwiches and cakes.

Thanks to all the volunteers, supporters and last, but not least, the players themselves.

Hard luck to the AGB men who had two recent losses, against Annacurra in the Carter Cup and against Tinahely in the Junior B Football Championship.

The Minor Men got off to a

There was no lotto jackpot winner on July 26.

Numbers drawn were 3, 18, 24 and 28.

The €30 lucky dip winners were Gillian Kelly c/o Charlie Kavanagh, John Keating c/o John Keating, John Kavanagh c/o Charlie Kavanagh, Ann Coogan c/o John Keating.

Bobby Mitchell c/o V. Walsh.

Next week’s jackpot is €9,725.

Tickets cost €2 each and are on sale in the club shop on match days or you can play the Bray Wanderers Lotto on line at www.bwfc.ie.

Bray Wanderers are at home to Dundalk on July 31 in the SSE Airtricity Premier division.

Kick off at the Carlisle Grounds is 7.45pm.

Bray Wanderers U19s defeated Bohemians 3-1 in a pre-season friendly last Saturday.

Goalscorers for Wanderers were Paddy Obijuri, Jordan Brett and Dylan Travers.

Pre-season games for the U19s are on August 2 against St Patrick Athletic U19 in Alsaa at 4pm.

On August 5 Rathcoole Boystime TBC. On August 8 Shamrock

Rovers U19- time and venue to be confirmed.

Wanderers U17s drew 1-1 with Bohemians U17s on Saturday in a pre-season friendly.

Goalscorer for Wanderers was Patrick Leonard.

New Bray Wanderers 30 years and supporters metal badges are now on sale in the club shop at home games.

Priced at €3 each.

Also new key rings are available at €1 each.

The supporters club are selling tickets for the 2015 Irish Football National draw.

Tickets are €10 each and all proceeds raised go to the Supporters Club.

Draw will take place at the FAI Ford cup final on November 8.

There are over 2,000 prizes in the draw including four Ford Fiestas.

Tickets will be on sale in the club shop at home games this season.

A car boot sale will take place on August 1 in the Carlisle Grounds from 8am to 1.30pm.

Cars €10, Vans €15.

For more information call Colin on 0862451654.

Shankill GAA Juvenile Academy is taking a well earned break.

It will be back in action on August 15 in Shanganagh Castle at 10am catering for 4-8 year old boys and girls.

Learn the skills of Gaelic football, Hurling and Camogie while having fun with your friends.

The cost is only €2 for each child and there is no annual subscription.

Girls U9 had a great match playing Ballyboden St Endas.

Men’s adult team lost to St James Gales.

New players always welcome contact Damien 085 2327359.

Leo Cullen set to be named as Leinster boss Newtownmount -kennedy native native Leo Cullen is set to take over as Leinster Rugby head coach.

Cullen was promoted to interim coach following the news of Matt O’Connor’s sacking and is now set to sign a two-year deal with the club.

The former club captain impressed in the interview

process with his vision for the future.

Wicklo’sw Richie Murphy, former Presentation College Bray and Greystones outhalf, is a member of the backroom staff at both Leinster and Ireland and has been tipped to take over as backs coach under Cullen.

Speaking about Cullen,

Leinster Branch President Robbie McDermott said, “The players responded to him very well and he’s steeped in Leinster tradition.

“He commands huge respect in the dressing room.

“I’m excited by the prospect of watching him get the team playing well again next year.”

Want to give your club a voice? email your notes to info@wicklowvoice.ie

sport| 23

July 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

A sporting superstar is born Wicklow has a new sporting hero. Overnight on July 19 and into July 20, Greystones golfer Paul Dunne was easily the leading story in world sport, bar none. Paul can now be mentioned in the same breath as Katie Taylor, Fionnuala Britton and Ed Joyce.

Golf is one of the few sports that can command global headlines for its biggest moments; possibly only soccer or athletics can match that universal reach. And in golf you can’t get a much bigger moment (bar winning the tournament outright) than leading The British Open (the greatest golf tournament in the world) after day three of the four-day event.

At The Old Course, St Andrews.

Yet this is where 22-year old Paul stood after his first three rounds of 69, 69 and 66 which gave him a 12-under 54-hole score of 204.

I’m forgetting to mention one thing – Paul Dunne is still

only an amateur. This kind of thing isn’t meant to happen. An amateur hasn’t won The Open since 1930. Paul should have been content to make the cut, to be making up the numbers and amongst the greats for the weekend. Yet Paul stood leading the greats and in doing so earned their respect and admiration.

Much as we wanted Paul to hold onto the lead in round four, he was never going to have more than a slim chance.

A who’s who of the world’s leading players were poised to pounce just behind Paul and they cut loose on the Monday as the conditions deteriorated.

Paul’s real challenege was to try to hold on for the Silver Medal, the honour bestowed on the leading amateur in The Open.

In the end a final round of 78 brought a four-day total of 282 and a top 30 place, certainly no disgrace and in reality a minor blip on an otherwise flawless week’s work for Paul, an effort

that did Greystones, Wicklow and Ireland proud. Indeed, Paul very nearly pipped Padraig Harrington for the honour of being leading Irishman at the tournament’s close (Harrington finished a single stoke better

than Paul).

Paul was pipped for the silver medal by Jordan Niebrugge of the US. Oliver Schniederjns and Ashley Chesters also overhauled Paul on day four. Of this quartet of leading amateurs,

Paul was the only one to have booked his Open slot the hard way, slugging it out at Woburn in the qualifiers the week before, much as he’d done last year (he missed the cut in 2014 at his Open debut).

So who is Paul Dunne? A recent graduate of the University of Alabama (the same university Graeme McDowell golfed for), Paul has been a member of Greystones Golf Club since joining as a 10-year old in 2003.

He was also an accomplished soccer player (with Greystones United), GAA player (with Eire Og) and tennis player in his youth. He has excelled at golf all the way through his teenage years and is known at Greystones for his hard work on the practice ground, perfecting and honing his craft. He is also known for his excellent sportsmanship, which was evident at St Andrews.

Paul’s next challenge will be to try to secure a spot on the prestigious Walker Cup team, the amateur equivalent of making the Ryder Cup team. We wish Paul all the best in what promises to be a bright future, and look forward to sharing his adventures with him.

Pack up the family car and make a day of it at Airfield Estate this summer…

airfield ESTATE With the sun shining and kids on their summer holidays, why not make a day of it at Airfield Estate which is bursting with fun activities everyday including: • Egg collecting at 10am, followed by milking of the Jersey cows in the farmyard at 10.30am • Guided tours of the house and gardens at 11.30am and 2.30pm • Join the farmers to feed Airfield’s animals at 3.15pm New for 2015 is Naturescape – an interactive play area for 4-12 year old visitors with a 27m zip wire, tractor tyres, balance beams and woodland hideouts. For our little visitors from 0-4 years there is the new Grey Barn which is a specially designed indoors/outdoors play area with play market stalls, cooking stations and thatched cottage.

Set over 38 acres and just off the M50 in Dundrum, Airfield Estate is the perfect day out.

Pack up the car and enjoy a rural experience in the city.

Airfield Estate | Overend Way, Dundrum Dublin 14 | Open daily from 9.30am | t: 01 9696666 | e: info@airfield.ie w: www.airfield.ie Follow us online @ facebook.com/airfielddublin | twitter.com/airfielddundrum

24 | ADVERTISING

wicklowvoice.ie July 30 2015