Castle Writers
Out of the Cocoon
Athlone 2020
What a wonderful scene is there now, since the great development of the Loughnaneane Park. This park is right in front of the Castle Ruins. It is a 14acre recreational area. it includes a crannog known locally as the Hill O Bones, a wild flower meadow, a swallow hole, a lake feature with ducks and various birds. Nature walks are provided to observe the wildlife. There are picnic seats, a car park, and a children’s playground. On a recent visit to the Park, I relished the atmosphere, with the bird song, the numerous trees and the whole picturesque scene. What a difference now from the time in the 1950s when we waded through the rough ground and the dock leaves. At that time this area hosted the football matches that had to be cancelled whenever the field was flooded! Indeed the Castle and the Lough have proudly come into their own and they are a credit to County Roscommon. The highlight of a trip to Roscommon Town could well be a visit to Loughnaneane Park and the lovely ruins of the historic 13th century Norman Castle. Yvonne Ferry
Summer Thunder Summer Thunder in the air, Sounds of anger and despair. The sky lights up with lightning flash While peals of thunder roar and crash And then the rain comes pelting down It seems that everything will drown In pools of sorrow, flowing streams, Washing over all our dreams. But now, the rain has stopped at last, The roar of thunder too has passed. Now I feel the silent calm That soothes and brings my spirit balm. Margaret Franklin
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