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Gazette BLANCH

December 1 - 7, 2016

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Clonee estate plagued by spike in burglaries Alarming number of attempted car thefts and house break-ins reported across D15

 KEN PHELAN A HOUSING estate in Clonee has reported an alarming spate of house burglaries and car thefts over the past few months.

Beechfield estate near Lit-

tlepace in Clonee has seen six house burglaries, one attempted burglary, one car theft and a number of car break-ins since July’s end.

However, these figures only represent incidents that Beechfield Residents’

Association has been made aware of.

According to the association, most of the house burglaries have been carried out by thieves using a crow bar to force open front doors.

Most of these break-ins

have occurred during daylight hours, with mainly cash and jewellery being stolen. A number of these houses had home alarms, which reportedly in some cases had not been set.

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Fingal has just 6 specialists for 450,000 people  SYLVIA POWNALL

CHILDREN in north Dublin are being forced through the adult mental health system because of a lack of resources, it emerged last week.

In 2015, a total of 95 children were admitted to adult units because the suppor t network for adolescents and pre-teens is drastically underfunded.

The mental health clinic for Fingal has just six specialists serving a population of 450,000 people – or one per 75,000 – it was revealed.

Lack of adequate investment or a “joinedup strategy” were highlighted at an information night in the Carnegie Court Hotel in Swords.

Senator Keith Swanick (FF) called on the Gov-

ernment to review mental health funding as a matter of urgency and said young people deserved better.

He identified a number of persistent failures within the system – including the fact that services are operating at just 75% of the recommended staffing levels.

Senator Swanick said: “A lack of funding is adversely affecting the most vulnerable in our community. There are currently only 25 child beds nationally, usually with a three-month waiting list.

“This leaves doctors with no choice but to send children through the adult system.”

He called for crossdepartmental funding which would result in children receiving a full

psychological assessment as well as an educational assessment.

Deputy Darragh O’Brien echoed the calls, adding: “There is an excellent mental health clinic in Swords town centre, with an outreach point in Balbriggan.

“But five or six people are expected to cover a constituency of 450,000 residents. This is totally unacceptable.

“Reports also suggest that staff on maternity and sick leave are not being replaced.

“T his is a dding a knock-on effect on the families of those in need of services, in despair.”

Fianna Fail is now demanding a clear mental health strategy to be laid out, and adequately funded, by the Government.

FASTNews

Networking lunch for Fingal businesswomen

Fingal County Council named Local Authority of the Year FINGAL County Council has been named as the Local Authority of the Year at the 2016 Excellence in Local Government Awards.

It is the second time in seven years that Fingal has won the overall award which is given to the local authority that best exemplifies the hard work, innovation and enthusiasm that goes into the delivery of Local Government services.

The expert judging panel described Fingal County Council as a leader in its vision for the future development of the locality and the broader economic region.

Fingal County Council also won the Heritage and Built Environment Award for the Digging History Project at Swords Castle. Pictured are Ian Talbot CEO Chambers Ireland; Paul Reid, chief executive Fingal County Council; Minister for Housing and Urban Renewal Damien English; Niamh Boyle, president Chambers Ireland; Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Darragh Butler; Cllr Anne Devitt FCC and Cllr Kieran Dennison. Picture: Finbarr O’Rourke

FINGAL Local Enterprise Office (LEO) has announced details for the annual Fingal Enterprising Women’s Network (FEWN) Christmas lunch, which takes place on Tuesday, December 6 in Roganstown Hotel and Country Club.

The last FEWN event of the year is designed to allow the entrepreneurs to mingle and connect with many new people from a variety of business backgrounds in an open networking environment, giving them an opportunity to build relationships and learn from each other.

The special guest speaker for the Christmas lunch is Niamh Barry, founder of The Irish Fairy Door Company. There is a nominal booking fee of €10, which includes Christmas lunch and a glass of mulled wine for Fingal businesswomen.

Places are strictly limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked at www. localenterprise.ie/ fingal.

Put your talent to the TV test

Marathon effort by children 1,900 6th class pupils from 29 Fingal schools completed a total of 25.2 miles at the Marathon Kids Final Mile event at the National Sports Campus last week.

The event, in conjunction with Fingal County Council, Dublin City Council and SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon, saw children running 4 to 5 times per week in school, in an eight-week journey.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) 2015 report, Ireland is set to become the most obese country in Europe by 2030 with 89% of all adults defined as obese or overweight.

The MarathonKids initiative encourages fitness, educates young people on the benefits of sport and promotes an increase in activity levels in the early teenage population.

Niall Mc Guirk, senior sports development officer of Fingal said: “Fingal are delighted with the impact the programme has made in our schools.

We had 1,000 Fingal kids here out of 1,900 on a cold Sunday morning, which is a credit to the runners, their parents and their teachers.

“This programme has the potential to be in every school in the country. There is no cost to the school or the kids and both teachers and principals agree it’s easy to implement and makes a huge impact regardless of the size of your school and the standard of your facilities.”

BUDDING Fingal entertainers take note – Britain’s Got Talent auditions are coming to Dublin this Friday, December 2, with a team visiting the Ilac Centre in the city centre in search of local talents.

Open auditions are being held from 12pm4pm. Fingal talents could follow in the footsteps of previous Irish acts who have done well on the show, including the Presentation Senior Choir from Kilkenny and husband and wife singing duo, Ian and Anne Marshall from Belfast.

DUBLINERS | STUDENT SET FOR TOP MODEL CAREER

SWEET Carolina

 AISLING KENNEDY A GORGEOUS 20-year-old Dubliner has been selected from 4,500 applicants for the final of the prestigious international Top Model competition.

Tallaght I.T. student Carolina Aznar has told how she recently found out that she was one of 50 girls selected for the Irish finals later this month .

The pocket-sized stunner from Shankill said she’d tried out modelling before but had been told she was too small to make it on the catwalk.

She told The Gazette: “I tried modelling before but I found it hard because of my height. I was told I was too small because I’m 5”3. They’re happy with my height in this competition though so I’m delighted. I’ll to give it my best shot.”

For the next part of the competition, Carolina will take part in two separate catwalk events at the Temple Bar Arts Studio on December 10.

If Carolina is a winner on the day, the prizes include professional photography shoots for the cover of Irish Fashion and Glamour Magazine, and she’ll represent Ireland in the Worldwide Grand Final in London which will include opportunities at London Fashion Week.

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Beaches breaches TWO Fingal beaches are among six singled out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for repeated breaches of EU water safety regulations.

Loughshinny beach and Rush south – subjected to repeated bathing bans over the summer – are cited in the latest report from the EPA.

Anniething bingoes CLONSILLA INN LOCALS HAVE A BALL AS DRAG QUEEN BRINGS HOUSE DOWN

 KEN PHELAN DRINKS were flowing and the lipstick was flying at Clonsilla Inn for Phoenix FM’s fundraising Drag Bingo last Friday night. The radio station held the novel event to raise much-needed funds. Hosted by the station’s very own Annie Balls (possibly not her real name), the night offered risque humour to an energetic Clonsilla crowd.

Prizes included a luxury spa day plus B&B at Castleknock Hotel, All In One vouchers, bottles of wine, cocktails and more for the lucky winners. Annie told how she started out doing bingo with her pal Shirley Temple Bar in The George 20 years ago. She revealed: “I’ve developed this character, Annie Balls, for over 20 years now.

“I have to say, from over 20 years of doing this, the oul’ ones are the best fun. A lot of straight men at the shows would kind of feel a bit intimidated.

It’s like as if you’re challenging their sexuality, and I’m like “You’re not all that, baby!”

“I honestly believe people are still fascinated by the whole ‘fella in a frock’ thing – the dressing up, the make-up, it’s like armour. When I’m Annie, I’m invincible. Also, I get away with saying an awful lot of stuff I could never say in real life.”

Annie’s antics would indeed make your grandmother blush, but it’s all in good humour. Bingo is just the sideshow of Annie’s performance, with its cheeky puns and innuendo.

Presenting her own LGBT show, Rainbow Nation, on Phoenix FM for almost a year now, Annie has already picked up an award for Best New Show, but refuses to be pigeon-holed on just ‘gay’ issues.

She said: “I genuinely believe that every issue is LGBT, that every issue is ‘straight’ – it doesn’t matter whether you’re straight or gay, everyone faces the same issues.

“I’m more confident since doing the show, and people would have thought I was confident anyway. I’ve been working full-time as Annie for a couple of years now, and I have to say, I love it.”

Annie’s show is on Phoenix FM at 92.5 FM every Saturday at 9pm.

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CLONEE | SOCIAL MEDIA USED TO TACKLE CRIMES

Spate of robberies  CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Suspicious cars and individuals have been spotted in the estate, thought to be checking out cars and homes.

Sightings of these individuals are now being immediately relayed to other residents via a new WhatsApp facility set up as part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

The residents’ association has spoken to a Sergeant stationed at Blanchardstown Garda Station and written to gardai in relation to the recent spate of robberies, but has yet to receive a reply.

Kevin O’Moore, chairman Of Beechfield Residents’ Association told Blanch Gazette: “We have a community garda officer but unfortunately she’s on maternity leave, so we haven’t been kept informed of what’s happening in the area. The list of incidents isn’t a full list – we’re only aware of what residents have posted on our Facebook page or via WhatsApp. Some residents may not use social media or may want to keep incidents quiet, so I’m sure there are

more. Unfortunately, gardai just don’t have the resources to deal with the problem. It has to be said though, there was one recent house burglary and gardai were at the scene in seven minutes, so when the resources are there, they are quick to respond.

“We’ve been told this is a citywide problem; unfortunately, we’ve been hit particularly badly. Without a doubt, it’s the same guys carrying out the burglaries and car thefts each time, but again, we’ve been kept in the dark by gardai.”

When contacted by The Blanch Gazette, the garda press office stated that “all cases are being actively investigated”, though it would “not be in a position to discuss individual cases”.

The press office added that all available resources would be directed to patrolling those areas most affected, with a view to “detecting and preventing similar type criminal activity”.

Despite the recent burglaries, the Garda.ie website reports a drop of approximately 30% of domestic

burglaries since Operation Thor was launched in November 2015. Gardai do advise, however, that burglaries traditionally rise in winter time, with almost half occurring between the hours of 5pm and 11pm, and urge the public to be extra vigilant.

As posted on the Garda website, homeowners are advised to turn on lights in the home; use timer switches; lock all doors and windows; use an alarm; store keys away from windows and letterboxes and not to store large amounts of cash or jewellery in the house.

Beechfield Residents’ Association has reassured residents that through its Facebook page, its newWhatsApp facility and through greater vigilance, these incidents will be kept to a minimum. In raising the issue, Beechfield Residents’ Association did not wish to tarnish the good name of the estate, which has up until recently remained quiet and crime-free.

Any incidents or reports of suspicious activity can be reported to Blanchardstown Garda Station at: 016667000.

Dubliners come together to show they care about CARI

A HOST of familiar faces rubbed shoulders with people from all across the city at the CARI fundraising charity Christmas lunch at the Shelbourne Hotel recently. A number of Dundrum locals made the trip into town for the lunch, joining everyone in their shared will to support CARI’s work in providing therapy and support for children affected by child sexual abuse. Sarah Jane Murray, Nadine Wai O’Flynn and Ceire O’Rourke were just three of the many stylishly-dressed CARI supporters gathered for the very worthwhile cause at the prestigious hotel. Picture: Brian McEvoy

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BLANCHGazetteGALLERY |

DRAIOCHT HOLDS A TWO-DAY CHRISTMAS

Naomi Mengesha, with her brothers Noah and Sam

Alice Croft enjoying herself at the Christmas Fair. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON

Darren and Noreen Power with their girls Katie and Emma

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CRAFT FAIR EXTRAVAGANZA

Friends Sophie Harding and Meabh Doyle

Charlie Nolan

Adam Homan and his sister Leah

Getting all crafty about gift ideas T

HOSE looking for an extra special Christmas present were in luck as the Draiocht held a two-day Christmas Craft Fair Extravaganza last week. The event featured 28 crafters who were surely able to tick a few items of

shopping lists. Items on offer included beautifully hand-crafted work, including knitting, crochet, jewellery, quilting, cards, journals, children’s clothes, ceramics, glass work, umbrellas, crystals, leather goods, photography and much more.

Sara Dushaj with her brother Evan

Cailtlin Moore and Becky Joy-Hoggmore

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GazetteGALLERY | ITB GRADUATION CEREMONY

Lee Van Thai from Tallaght, Fran Farrell from Dublin, Jack Hartnett from Maynooth, Carl O’Donovan from Dublin, Paul Gorman from Mullingar and Karl Smith from Kildare

Hats off to the class of 2016

Rob Hale from Clonsilla with Anita Hale

THE Institute of Technology Blanchardstown’s graduation ceremony saw over 940 full and part-time students receiving awards in various disciplines. Students graduated from 42 courses in total including business, engineering, computing, creative digital media, horticulture, sports management and coaching, social care, community and youth development and early childhood care.

Darren Cosgrave from Palmerstown.

Omobola Sulaimon from Swords, Tasneem Ismaeel from Clonsilla and Adedolapo

Pictures: Andres Poveda Photography

Hamid from Dublin City Centre

Mary Kiwanuka, Nitish Raj Singh and Fei Wang

COURTS | PAIR DATED FOR FEW WEEKS, BUT GHIMISLI BECAME “OBSESSED”

Taxi driver who harassed ex ordered to leave State A TAXI driver from Clonsilla who harassed his ex-girlfriend out of what a court called “unrequited love” has been ordered to leave the country.

Mihail Ghimisli (35) began harassing the woman three years after she broke up with him following a relationship which lasted a few weeks.

Counsel for Ghimisli told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court his client was acting under the effect of “unrequited love” and was willing to leave Ireland to avoid a custodial sentence.

Ghimisli, originally from Romania, but with an address in Castlefield Court, Clonsilla, Dublin, pleaded guilty to one count of harassing Larina Belova on four occasions between May and July 2014.

Ghimisli has two previous convictions for harassing Ms Belova after the break-up of their brief relationship in 2011.

The court heard the pair dated

for just a few weeks, but Ghimisli became “obsessed” with Ms Belova.

Judge Melanie Greally noted Ms Belova had suffered ongoing distress as a result of Ghimisli’s actions and that she had made clear to him that his approaches were entirety unwanted.

She said the offences appeared to be borne of a hopeless situation of unrequited love which Ghimisli had extreme difficulty in accepting.

Judge Greally imposed an 18 month sentence which she suspended in full on strict conditions including that he leave the country within 48 hours and undertake to provide his address in Romania to the investigating officer.

She ordered him not to communicate with Ms Belova for ten years by any means and not go within 20 kilometres of her home or workplace.

She warned Ghimisli that fail-

ing to abide by the orders would be a separate offence and he could be brought back to this country to be prosecuted for any such failure.

In a victim impact report, Ms Belova said she had been living in “constant fear” of Ghimisli. She had to move home, change her job and sell her car in the wake of the harassment.

Garda John Hayes agreed with Garret Baker BL, prosecuting, that Ms Belova was driving to a petrol station on May 12, 2014, when she noticed Ghimisli in his taxi driving by her.

He made eye contact with her before turning his car around and following her, Mr Baker said.

He followed her to the petrol station and was watching her fill up with petrol when Ms Belova “had the presence of mind” to take a photo of Ghimisli, the court heard. He left the

scene shortly afterwards.

He knocked on her house door a few days later but Ms Belova’s house mate shut the door in his face and he left immediately.

On July 3, Ghimisli followed Ms Belova when she was driving to her friend’s house. As she was entering the building, he grabbed her by the hand, the court heard.

“She managed to get away from him and slapped him in the face,” Mr Baker said.

Six days later on July 9, Ms Belova was again at home when she and her house mate heard knocking on the door. Her house mate looked out the window and saw Ghimisli throwing some flowers and a box of chocolates on Ms Belova’s car before leaving the scene.

He has six previous convictions, including two for previously harassing Ms Belova.

View on Castro ‘lacked balance’ FINGAL TD Darragh O’Brien has rowed in on the row over President Michael D Higgins’ statement on the death of Fidel Castro, saying it lacked balance.

The Fianna Fail Foreign Affairs spokesman described Castro, who died at the weekend at the age of 90, as a “political giant”.

But, he said, the President’s message lacked balance and failed to address the fact that Castro had ruled over a state where no opposition was permitted.

He added: “The President’s statement was not as balanced as it could have been. There were no elections in Cuba – a one-party State. In this instance, like in others, he should be called out.”

Human rights groups also distanced themselves from President Higgins’ remarks, and accused him of “airbrushing” over Castro’s tyrannical dictatorship.

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AWARDS | MALAHIDE, HOWTH SPECIALISTS REEL IN NATIONAL SEAFOOD GONGS AT CEREMONY

Right plaice, right time for two top Fingal fish experts  SYLVIA POWNALL TWO Fingal fish specialists have netted national seafood gongs at the first awards ceremony of its kind in Ireland.

Oceanpath of Howth won the Innovation in Seafood Processing award, while Eimantas Zvirblis of Donnybrook Fair in Malahide won the Young Fishmonger Of The Year title.

Eimantas, who is from Lithuania, is a self-confessed fish aficionado and has worked at Don-

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“I took a long time to say my first words, but when I saw my father catch a fish one day, all I could say was: ‘Fish, fish’!”

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Eimantas Zvirblis, Donnybrook Fair, Malahide

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nybrook Fair’s flagship Malahide store since it opened last Christmas.

Eimantas first realised he had a skill with seafood while working for the Dublin Smoked Fish Company in 2010.

He has also worked at

Nicky’s Plaice in Howth, but has found his calling sharing fish recipes with his customers in Malahide.

Eimantas told The Gazette: “When I was a kid, my father used to bring me boat fishing

every weekend. I took a long time to say my first words, but when I saw him catch a fish one day, all I could say was: ‘Fish, fish’!

“I love my job, and I love playing with colour, so when people walk through the door and see my display all they can say is ‘Wow’.

“If I was to do anything else, I spend a lot of my free time cooking fish and coming up with different recipes, so I would probably see myself being a chef in a seafood restaurant,” said Eimantas.

Eimantas Zvirblis (Young Fishmonger Of The Year), Donnybrook Fair, Malahide and Ken Ecock, director, Oceanpath (Innovation in Seafood Processing). Picture: Paul Sherwood

The judging process for the awards was rigorous, with BIM inspectors paying multiple visits to test for the standard of display, presentation, quality of fish, fishmonger’s knowledge and skill in preparation.

Oceanpath was founded by the Ecock family in Howth in 1991.

In 1995, they partnered with Superquinn, investing more than €3 million in a state-of-the-art seafood processing plant and introducing a new trace-

ability system on-pack.

The family-run firm, which employs 93 staff, became the first seafood processor in Ireland certified to the BRC (British Retail Consortium) food standard, and has maintained this ever since.

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BLANCHGazetteGALLERY |

CASTLEKNOCK GAA HOLD THEIR ANNUAL

Juvenile Awards Presenters Aoife Whelan, Conor Prunty and Molly O’Neill

Under-12 Hurler of the Year Neil Hogan with Conor Prunty. Pictures: Shay Hogan and Niall O’Connell

The results are in C

ASTLEKNOCK GAA held their annual Juvenile Awards night in Westmanstown Conference Centre last week. Nearly 600 boys and girls from under 8s to under 16s and their mentors and parents celebrated a fantastic year for the underage section of the club, the highlight of the year being the under 14 boys winning the All Ireland Football Feile competition in July. Awards were presented on the night to the year’s best and most improved hurlers, camogie players and footballers. Kevin O’ Neill was the MC and the awards were presented by Castleknock Senior hurling captain Conor Prunty and by Ladies Camogie and Football players Aoife Whelan and Molly O’ Neill.

Castleknock Under-9 girls on stage at the awards

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JUVENILE AWARDS NIGHT IN WESTMANSTOWN CONFERENCE CENTRE

Castleknock Camogie Mentor Stephen Rafferty with his daughter Sarah MC Kevin O’Neill with daughters Kaci and Molly

Castleknock Under-9 Boys

An eye-catching moment C

ONGRATULATIONS to Eilish Andrews, winner of the Castleknock GAA #capturethecrest photography competition in association with Conns Cameras who was presented with her prize of a Canon 1300D SLR camera by Kathleen Clerkin, finance manager of Conns Cameras and cousin of Gerry Cadden one of the founding fathers of Castleknock GAA. Also present was Alan Murphy from Canon Ireland along with some of the girls who appeared in Eilish’s winning entry.

Ruth Brett from Woodies with young Castleknock players

GAZETTE

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DUBLINBUSINESS

Scholarships awarded to Dublin students TWELVE Dublin students have been awarded a JP McManus All Ireland Scholarship toward their third-level education.

The awards ceremony took place on November 19 at the University of Limerick where Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, presented the awards.

Special guest at this year’s awards ceremony was Rugby Legend, Paul O’Connell.

This is the ninth year of the Scholarships, which are sponsored by JP McManus.

A total of 125 students from both North and South of Ireland were

presented with a third level scholarship certificate.

The scheme is set to provide financial assistance to many high achieving students who completed their Leaving Certificate in 2016.

JP McManus has contributed €32 million to fund the provision of these scholarships each year and it is estimated that over 1,300 students from the 32 counties will benefit from the scheme over its duration.

The awards are administered by the Department of Education & Skills and Department of Education in Northern Ireland.

FAIRCHAIN | NATIONAL CRAFTS AND DESIGN FAIR AT THE RDS

Radically good coffee with a radical impact  IAN BEGLEY

TWO self-confessed social upstarts whose ambition to change the world led to the foundation of the first Fairchain coffee company in Ireland were showcased at the National Crafts and Design Fair at the RDS this week.

Dubliners Shane Reilly from Glasnevin and Killian Stokes from Sandymount both had many years of travel experience through poverty-ravaged coffee growing communi-

ties in Africa and South America, when they met at the UCD Innovation Academy.

While researching how their ideals could challenge global inequality, they came across the innovative social enterprise Moyee Coffee.

“Less than 15% of coffee value goes to coffeegrowing countries and 99% of coffee is exported from the country of origin and roasted and packaged in the west,” said Shane. “ We c a m e a c r o s s Dutch entrepreneur Guido Van Staveren who set up a coffee social enterprise in Ethiopia with a staff of 48 to both source and roast coffee at point of origin.

“We became partners and have started the Fairchain revolution in Ireland with Moyee Coffee Ireland, which is a premium high-end coffee.

“Fairchain supports five times as many jobs as Fair Trade and as the chain is unbroken at source, it is radically good coffee with radical

Dubliners Shane Reilly from Glasnevin and Killian Stokes from Sandymount

impact.”

Organiser Patrick O’Sullivan said:“This annual fair is vital to the industry as a whole and it is estimated that it generates enough business to keep most of the exhibitors busy for at least four months of the year.

“Everything from arti-

san foods to fashion and jewellery are on display and because the goods are handmade, they have the added distinction of being unique. “ We ’ r e a l s o v e r y proud of the fact that the Fair has grown and has added annually to the local economy, with

footfall consistently growing by 10% per annum over the past five years.

With so much diversity under one roof, and prices star ting from as little as €5, the Fair offers Ireland’s largest Christmas gift shopping experience.

Safe skincare that works for sensitive skin ONE in five children and one in 12 adults in Ireland will develop eczema at some stage in their lives, according to the Irish Skin Foundation.

Eczema is a skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, red, itchy and inflamed.

Known irritants include animal hair, pollen and common preservatives found in skincare products such as MI, sulfates and perfumes, as they strip the skin of its natural oils.

Elave skincare is all about creating safe skincare that works for sensitive skin.

The range is produced by thirdgeneration family business Ovelle Pharmaceuticals, the first manufacturing chemist in Ireland to prepare traditional apothecary for sensitive skin conditions.

“We know through research that harsh chemicals and known irritants are found in the most common skincare products including shampoos, bath products and cleansers,” said Joanna Gardiner, CEO Elave Skincare.

“This is very frustrating as there have been serious breakthroughs in skincare treatments over the past 30 years.

“At Elave, we have been committed to removing all unnecessary chemicals from our ranges, as we believe it’s time to treat skin right,” she added.

Using only purified water, all Elave formulations are safety tested to the highest standards.

Elave Sensitive Intensive Cream is a medical device that will alleviate symptoms and reduce flare up of eczema and dermatitis-prone skin.

To purchase Elave skincare products visit your local pharmacy or online at www.elaveskincare. com

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GAZETTE

DIARY DUBLINLIFE Get set for a wondeful knight as the King of Waltz returns THE King of Waltz, Andre Rieu, returns to Dublin with his Johann Strauss Orchestra for a fantastic show with a jam-packed programme filled with film and opera music, romantic melodies, joyful waltzes, folk songs and lots more.

As one of the world’s most successful violinists, the Dutch maestro invites you to come along for an evening of singing and dancing for all ages on December 8.

Tickets are priced from €49 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.ie.

SUPPORT CHILDLINE THIS CHRISTMAS

The stars of The Helix panto Aladdin arrived to put a smile on the face of young patients, including Darcy Molloy, in Temple Street Children’s University Hospital yesterday. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

LAST Christmas day, Childline received 1,176 calls from children in distress. Children scared, neglected, sad, or lonely.

Every year, the incredible Childline volunteers give up their Christmas.

This year, the ISPCC has a number of different ways you can support and donate.

They will have holly pins on sale across the country, while Christmas baubles are the perfect way to donate to the ISPCC in lieu of gifts.

The online shop will also have Christmas cards and Santa letters available.

Visit www.ispcc.ie for more information.

STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO MIND THEIR MENTAL HEALTH Mental Health Ireland’s annual Secondary School Art and Photography Competition have extended its deadline to December 16.

The theme for this year is ‘Mind Your Mental Health’ and students are being encouraged with their teachers and classmates, to explore what minding their mental health means to them and then getting creative about it.

The winning entries in Art and Photography receive a €250 All4One voucher with provincial winners receiving €50 All4One vouchers in both categories. And All winning entries will feature in our MHI Calendar which we produce each year.

PANTO PUBLIC’S SUPPORT SOUGHT BY HOSPITAL DUBLIN’S panto public have the chance to create magic of their own for the children of Temple Street Hospital by raising €10,000 through a special charity performance of The Helix pantomime Aladdin.

Magic was in the air when the stars of Aladdin arrived to put a

smile on the face of young patients, families and staff in Temple Street Children’s University Hospital this week.

And pantogoers are being given the chance to help raise funds for sick children at Temple Street by buying tickets at a special price of €20 per seat to the charity performance on Thursday, December 1.

Tickets for the special charity show are priced at a special price of €20 per seat. Booking details from www.thehelix.ie.

CHARITY ALONE LAUNCH CHRISTMAS CAMPAIGN ALONE, the charity that supports older people to age at home, has launched their Christmas campaign highlighting the isolation and loneliness of older people around Christmas time.

ALONE say that there are a number of ways that the public can help an older person this Christmas some of these are; calling by an older person’s house to say hello, ensuring they have enough food, medication and heat, bringing them out for a drive or to a social event and giving them a hand with their shopping.

For more information about ALONE call (01) 679 1032 or visit www.alone.ie.

Pictured is retired RTE newsreader Anne Doyle with Brendan Crean and Eithne McGrane at the launch of the ALONE Christmas Campaign. Picture Jason Clark.. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

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DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

For the BIG kid in us all

Jay McGuiness leads an all-star cast  IAN BEGLEY

BIG The Musical is making its European debut at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this December.

Irish audiences will be the first to have the opportunity to witness this spectacular musical before it opens in London’s West End next year.

Opening on December 7 until January 7 the show will certainly bring to life the magic of one of the best-loved movies of all time, Big. Based on the classic 80s film starring Tom Hanks, this heart-warming and hilarious Broadway show transports theatre-goers back in time to their own childhoods with all the wonder, innocence and charm that it entails.

A simply spectacular production, Big The Musical tells the story of Josh Baskin, a 12-year-old boy who’s keen to grow up.

One evening at the local carnival, the ever-mysterious Zoltar machine grants Josh his greatest wish - to be big.

Trapped in an adult’s body and alone in New York, he innocently tries to find his way around a grown-up world where it’s very much all work and no play.

Surrounded by people obsessed with the trappings of the sophisticated adult life, endearing Josh just can’t help being himself.

So charming is this youngster in the grown-up’s shoes, he even manages to

teach the real adults a thing or two.

Leading an all-star cast, Jay McGuiness (singer with group The Wanted and Strictly Come Dancing champion) will be joined by West End stars Denise Van Outen as Mrs Baskin, Diana Vickers as Susan Lawrence and Gary Wilmot as George MacMillan, with The Hoosiers star Irwin Sparkes as Paul.

Featuring incredible songs by David Shire and Richard Maltby and with electrifying direction and choreography from Morgan Young, the Bord Gais Energy Theatre’s audience are in for a big dose of brilliance.

Weidman’s adaptation illuminates the contradictions and evokes the mythology of being a child, daring to transport us to the realm of an impossible love between a boy who looks like a man and a woman who doesn’t know he is just a boy.

By the time he works up the nerve to tell her he is all of 13.

The musical was first staged in 1996, with music by David Shire, lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr, and book by John Wiedman.

It was nominated for five Tonys, and although the original Broadway production lost money, a substantially revised version had a successful and well reviewed US national tour.

Tickets are priced from €15 - €65 and can be purchased by visiting www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

1 December 2016 GAZETTE 17

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18 GAZETTE 1 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE  EMMA NOLAN

Keep cosy during the winter months FEELING the chill? This season, Regatta Great Outdoors have new and improved technical pieces with soft-touch insulation to keep us warm during the winter months.

Head to toe warmth is taken care of with new base layer sets and three levels of insulation - premium duck down, Alpaca and Down Touch Warmloft.

Sporty hybrid stretch jackets, classic country quilted styles and stylish parkas are all available in store. Available online and at the Pavilions Centre in Swords.

Regatta Great Outdoors Barley Arktik Hat €25

Regatta Great Outdoors Lumexia Parka €175

Regatta Great Outdoors Bayleaf Sternway Jacket €170

Tobias Body Wamer - Womens Regatta Great Outdoors €30

Regatta Great Outdoors Coconut Patrina Jacket €125

Regatta Great Outdoors Navy Sleet €20

A STYLE revolution is sweeping the country and it’s all about vital statics!!

Vintage fashions may be old, but they’re the new style kid on the block.

And while we all can’t emulate Marilyn Monroe with her incredible figure – a 35 inch bust, tiny 22 inch waist and minuscule 35 inch hips, we can all rock retro in our own way.

Indeed the average Irish woman, a bootiful size 16, is 25lbs heavier than her 1950s sister and wouldn’t have a hope of fitting into one of Ms Monroe’s gorgeous frocks.

Marilyn may not have been the average dame – her waist measured four inches less than most of her 1960s screen sisters – but we can all steal a tip or two from her on how to rock a frock.

First is go fitted. No matter your size, aim to nip and tuck your clothing, not your figure!

Having a decent dressmaker is a lot less costly than a good plastic surgeon.

Most women with a fuller figure think hiding it under loose fitting clothing is the best option..

But Joanne Galvin, who coowns ‘Aria’ Vintage and Interiors Boutique in Celbridge and also runs ‘Vintage Goddess’ in Dublin’s Blackrock Market, says: “This is a definite no, no.

“Take a tip from Marilyn.

Pick your best asset and show it off, whether it’s your bust, waist, legs, shoulders – even your ankles!

“Marilyn had a great bust and all the designers she favoured made dresses to showcase that.

“And while she was lucky to have a tiny waist, there are lots of ways to trick the eye of the beholder into thinking you have one too!

A high-waisted skirt or trousers will define the waist, as will a colour-contrasting belt or a beautiful 1950s fit-and-flare dress.”

Joanne, 49, who has been collecting vintage fashions for 30 years, says: “If you want beautifully cut clothing then go vintage.

“It is perfect for us women with a bit of a belly. The skirts and dresses of the 1950s and

Quality never goes

out of style 60s tend to have a higher waist band, which hits the smallest part of the torso, giving you an hour glass shape. It is the most flattering silhouette and copied by most modern designers.

“But fit is everything.

Buy a bigger size if necessary and get a good dressmaker to take it in.

If you wear too small a size it will ride up your torso and pucker across the bust and upper arms.

“Squeezing yourself into a smaller dress will only make you look larger.”

“And don’t be afraid of colour and prints. Floral prints for example can look very flattering on a fuller figure. And vertical stripes are

every woman’s friend. They make the body look leaner and taller.”

Joanne, below, adds: “I just adore vintage clothing. It is so unique on so many levels.

“For a start if you wear vintage to a wedding, a ball or the races, you will never meet anyone else wearing the same outfit.

“The high quality of the fabric – silks, velvets, satins and brocades and the attention to detail – pinked seams, hand sewn hems and beautiful tucking – is why these clothes still live on in our wardrobes 70 years later.

“I particularly love collecting clothing by Marilyn’s favourite designers, who include Ceil Chap-

man, William Travilla and Adele Simpson. I have some beautiful dresses by these designers both in Aria in Celbridge and Vintage Goddess in Blackrock.

“Lots of Irish women are learning that vintage fashion is unique and elegant. My customers include writers like Cathy Kelly, TV stars like Lorraine Keane, as well as actresses and musicians.

“Both I love dressing ordinary women like me. You feel like a silver screen movie star when you put on a beautifully cut wiggle dress or evening gown.

“And because authentic vintage clothing tends to be on the small side, I also stock an amazing range of mid-century jewellery, handbags, shoes and hats. Everyone can find something to love.”

1 December 2016 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

STYLE

Get some help to battle all of your dry skin woes DRY skin is common at this time of year – from chapped lips to itchy hands and dry cheeks.

Eucerin’s Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm is the all-in-one wonder product for the winter season.

Available in pharmacies for €10, the balm will help you fight back against winter’s sustained cold temperatures and answer all of your dry skin woes.

Loved by The Kardashian and model Emily Ratajkowski, the skin balm is formulated with only seven ingredients, free of fragrances, colourants and preservatives, and clinical studies proved that it is gentle enough to be used on irritated skin as well as on babies.

1960s rare Balenciaga hat at Aria

Chanel vintage silk and chiffon dress at Aria

1950s gold and black, brocade dress

ARIA Vintage and Interiors Boutique, Roseville House, Main Street, Celbridge, Co Kildare.

Christmas Shopping Event with Bubbles and Special Offers:Friday December 9th from 4pm to 8.30pm.

Opening hours: Tue to Sat, 11am to 6pm.

Facebook: Aria Celbridge

Vintage William Travilla gown

Vintage Goddess, Blackrock Market, Main Street, Blackrock, Co Dublin.

Christmas Shopping Event: Thursday December 8th, 4pm to 8.30pm.

Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11.30am to 5.30pm.

Facebook: Vintage Goddess Ireland Website: www.vintagegoddess.ie Phone: 0831376672

Rare Yves St Laurent 1950s shoes at Aria

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20 GAZETTE 1 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE

Brexit fuels Merc decision to cut 10% off new car prices MERCEDES-BENZ in Ireland is reducing new car prices by 10% across all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars with immediate effect.

The reduction, which will apply for a limited period, will be implemented evenly across all models and all model segments, free of any terms and conditions.

Mercedes-Benz claims that the intention behind the price reduction is twofold.

One is to maintain market impetus as the industry faces into a new sales year.

The second is to give support to their dealer organisation in its efforts to combat the effects on new car sales here following the movement in currency values from the recent Brexit result.

Mercedes-Benz claims that its passenger car sales in Ireland have increased by 44% compared to last year.

Stressing that the initiative is being taken to counteract what may turn out to be a short-term situation, MercedesBenz in Ireland said that ‘this new pricing arrangement will extend for a limited period only and in that regard motorists who may wish to avail of it are advised to contact their authorised dealer and make appropriate arrangements as

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Tiguan ya good thing

The new Volkswagen Tiguan comes with new styling, improved space and comfort with small improvements in fuel economy. Entry prices for the 2.0 litre turbo-diesel version start from €33,765.

Volkswagen’s Tiguan is one of the more popular mid-range SUVs and now the German brand has sharpened the Tiguan lines to give it a more stylish and comfortable drive. The extra bonus is better economy as good as Michael Moroney found during his recent test drive.

VOLKSWAGEN’S new Tiguan is all about style with sharper lines to the design to give the midrange SUV a more modern look. For Volkswagen the design change is obvious and it does enhance the Tiguan look significantly in what is a very competitive sector of the Irish car market.

In the upgrade process Volkswagen has sneaked a little bit of extra length into the SUV. Other less obvious changes include the fact that the wheelbase has been stretched a little and this gives that new Tiguan a good level of driving comfort without compromising the turning ability.

After even a short drive you will appreciate the solid driving feel for which Volkswagen is renowned and I quickly felt good driving this latest Tiguan.

The inside is noticeably more modern with new generation digital instruments that are clear to

view and easy to use.

I liked the tactile feel to the steering wheel which was very comfortable to use, not too big either with full controls included. The seat position was good but it took a little time to get to my comfort zone. There is good rear legroom and the high positions for all seats are appreciated with good headroom.

The Tiguan is available as an entry model with the 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine while I had the 2.0 litre turbo-diesel version on the road. This engine has undergone some improvements in emissions (are we surprised after a year of investigations) while the engine power and torque remain virtually the same.

The Tiguan is a good match for the competition in terms of fuel economy but I was a little surprised that there is only a small improvement over the previous one. The emphasis has been on emissions

and that’s now a marginally lower figure giving lower road tax costs.

This new Tiguan matches the economy performance of the similar engine size Toyota RAV4, which is cheaper to buy and own. Volkswagen has put a smaller fuel tank into the new Tiguan, dropping its capacity by 6 litres to 58 litres.

The official economy figure is rated at 21km/ litre (4.7l/100km or 60mpg) and I found that across a range of driving conditions I was about 15% off that figure. Overall, that’s still a good result in practical driving, and it’s also useful to remember that the Tiguan that I drove was a two-wheeldrive version.

I found the diesel powered Tiguan to be economical. The good engine torque rated at 340Nm, allowed for steady driving using all six gears available making it was possible to drive under the 2000rpm

figure on the engine for most of the time. That’s the magic spot when it comes to fuel economy and I found that a 1,000km range was well possible on this smaller fuel tank with sensible driving.

The Tiguan comes with an electric handbrake as standard along with auto hold hill start assist for hill starts. The useful Park Assist system is standard on the more expensive Highline versions.

The towing ability of the new Tiguan is rated at two tonnes for the base model.

If you intend pulling caravans or boats then you need to add the 4Motion 4x4 system and the DSG automatic gearbox to the deal to get it up to 2.5 tonnes. By way of comparison, most SUV’s in this segment of the market have a 2 tonne towing figure.

One of the benefits of the new longer wheelbase is more boot space. This new Tiguan has a noticea-

Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TD

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 2.0 litre Engine power 150hp 0 – 100km/hr 9.3 seconds Economy 21km/litre (4.7l/100km or 60mpg)

Fuel Tank Capacity 58 litre

CO2 emissions 125g/km Road Tax Band B1 €270 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 Star 2016 Warranty 3 years (100,000km)

Entry Price €33,765

bly bigger boot, bigger than all of the competition, while it is still a five seat vehicle. And the bonus that I found was that there is a spare wheel included, even if it’s a space saver version.

This new Tiguan has good safety credentials following a recent five star Euro NCAP crash safety rating. This SUV comes with plenty of safety kit included and includes

the Iso-Fix kit in the rear.

The rear seat adjustment is flexible and easy to fold.

This is when the size of the boot or load area comes into its own.

There is a large screen for radio and infotainment controls that was easy to set up and use. Connecting my phone with Bluetooth was quick and easy. The test Tiguan did not come with sat-nav included but it is possible to use your

1 December 2016 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

MOTORING Stay trouble-free Honda scoops two awards for winter driving WINTER driving presents new challenges in terms of car comfort and more importantly car safety.

THERE are some simple and useful tips for

good road holding (the legal minimum is

The improved 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine in the

drivers to ensure trouble-free journeys

1.6mm). A deeper tyre thread depth will

Volkswagen Tiguan is marginally more economical and

this winter, if the cold and dark weather

disperse much more water from the road

delivers lower CO2 emission levels.

has caught you by surprise.

and will minimise your risk of skidding and

Prevention is always better than cure, so take some time to carry out some basic winter maintenance so that you don’t get stranded over the weeks ahead.

losing control.

• Get the battery and charging system checked to ensure best performance.

A large number of winter calls to breakdown services are due to flat bat-

Giving some attention now to batter-

teries. Cold weather puts a lot of strain

ies, tyres, antifreeze, wipers, lights and

on tired batteries, so if is showing signs

other vehicle essentials is the best way of

of weakness consider changing it now to

ensuring reliability in the months to come.

avoid a breakdown.

Here are five simple steps for reduc-

• Ensure your car’s cooling system has

ing the chance of a car breakdown this

the correct levels of anti-freeze; this is

winter:

vital to prevent the water in your engine’s

• Make sure all the lights on your car, inside and out, are working properly.

Clean them regularly to ensure they are free of dirt, so that you can see, and others can see you.

• Check tyre tread depth and pressure weekly through the winter. Good tyres will ensure the safety systems on your car

cooling system from freezing.

Get your local dealer or a qualified mechanic to ensure this is done correctly.

• Do you need new windscreen wipers at front and rear? Check for efficient working and use cold weather washer fluid.

Do not use the windscreen wipers to

are as effective as possible. You should

clear ice, as this will very quickly lead to

have a minimum tread depth of 3mm for

damage.

HONDA is confirmed as a big hit with female drivers after scooping two category wins at the Women’s World Car of the Year awards. The awards, now in their seventh year, are the only global car honours voted for exclusively by female automotive journalists.

The Honda Civic was crowned the winner of the ‘family car category’ while Jazz also took away an accolade on the night, after last year’s overall win.

The Japanese brand was the only manufacturer to take multiple category titles.

The voting process for Women’s Car of the Year awards is rigorous. Each member of the global judging panel submits their personal nominations. This year’s awards saw 294 cars nominated by 17 judges from 14 different countries. The nominated cars are then reduced to a shortlist of 32 cars in six different categories. The judging panel is comprised of distinguished female automotive journalists, who vote by secret ballot. Judges then vote by awarding points under five criteria - engineering, appearance, comfort, storage and value for money.

On the announcements of the awards, Jennifer Moran from Universal Honda Ireland said, “Winning two categories at the Women’s World Car of the Year awards demonstrates again how Honda’s exciting range of cars continues to match the expectations of female drivers and customers around the world. What is particularly encouraging is the endorsement this gives to Civic ahead of the launch of the all new Civic hatchback here in Ireland early in 2017.”

The Volkswagen Tiguan’s boot space at 615 litres before the seats are folded is the best in the segment and the boot opens high for good headroom.

phone to connect with Google maps rather than opt for the more expensive factory sat nav system.

I looked at the Tiguan running costs and found that relative to the likes of the Toyota RAV4, it was marginally more expensive to buy and to own, due to higher depreciation resulting from higher entry prices.

The diesel entry price starts at €33,765. That’s more expensive than the RAV4 and also the new competition from Volkswagen’s own stable in the shape of the Seat Ateca that’s just now appearing on Dublin roads.

Skoda will soon have a similar offer with their new Kodiaq, so this will test Volkswagen with the higher price for the Tiguan.

The new Tiguan is an SUV that you come away from feeling content, not

just with the driving performance, but also with the improved driving feel and modern good looks.

That solid Volkswagen feel is evident in almost every aspect of the new Tiguan, but don’t expect to be surprised with a big lift in fuel economy, remember emissions has been the issue at Volkswagen for the past year and the new Tiguan delivers lower figures.

The Tiguan will battle it out in what is a price sensitive market.

There are good Volkswagen offers including their own bank, that will entice you towards the Tiguan, so check out the best ownership deal, rather than strictly the buying price and that might include a competitive Volkswagen PCP deal if you’re a low mileage driver.

Nissan to offer bigger engine for X-Trail

NISSAN will be launching a new larger-capacity diesel engine for its flagship X-Trail crossover in 2017. This new 2.0 litre diesel engine has an output of 177bhp, with 380Nm of torque to give enhanced pulling power throughout the rev range. It is a significant step up in power from the existing 1.6-litre 130bhp diesel.

Nissan will also offer a new Nissan’s Xtronic automatic gearbox, linked to a four-wheel drive transmission. This adds to the options of a six-speed manual and two-wheel drive for the seven-seat SUV. Nissan claims that the new 2.0 litre diesel engine will be more refined and give a more comfortable driving experience. The engine meets Euro 6 emissions standards, and three versions will be including a six-speed manual in 4WD and 2WD and 4WD versions with the CVT automatic gearbox.

Other than the new engine option the design of the Nissan X-Trail remains unchanged. The second row splits and folds 60/40 for additional luggage space, reclines for passenger comfort and slides forward for access to the optional third row. The third row of seats splits 50/50 and folds completely flat to create extra load space.

Nissan’s optional All-Mode 4x4-i system provides the four-wheel-drive. When fitted, drivers can select from full-time 2WD for maximum efficiency; Auto Mode, which constantly monitors conditions and adjusts the balance of torque between the front and rear wheels for the best traction; and 4WD Lock Mode for the most challenging conditions.

GAZETTE

22 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE  ALISON O’HANLON

The 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct of Segovia is a sight to behold

A beautiful side street in Leon leads to the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria

A statue of the famous artist faces Gaudi’s Palace in in the medieval town of Leon

WHEN thinking of Spain most of us automatically picture the beaches and seaside resorts of the Mediterranean.

But thanks to some wonderful advice from the Spanish tourism office on Westmoreland St, I was lucky enough to be introduced to the spellbinding beauty of the Castilla y Leon region – the hidden Spain.

With daily flights available year round from Dublin to Madrid it is always the perfect time to experience the true essence of Spain.

While bus and train travel options are available from the capital I’d recommend hiring a car from the airport to truly discover the treasures of this magical, unspoiled region.

My first stop, just an hour north of Madrid, was the UNESCO World Heritage City of Segovia, an ancient walled city where I stayed at the Hotel San Antonio El Real, a short walk to the city’s landmark, a magnificent Roman Aqueduct dating back to the first century.

Segovia is a romantic city, perched on a rocky hilltop. The historic walled town boasts stunning views and magnificent monuments.

The majority of Segovia’s plethora of attractions are found in the old town, where you can spend hours exploring the winding streets, artisan boutiques and cafes and restaurants.

The aqueduct, which rises in all its splendour to a height of 29 meters, has more than 160 arches impressively held together with no mortar, and makes is an imposing site as you enter the old town.

Fairytale Around the next corner is the spectacular late gothic Cathedral de Segovia which stands at the highest point of the old town. The cathedral’s 18 chapels are filled with art works, sculptures and decorative alters.

The cathedral is on the Plaza Mayor, a hub of activity crammed with cafes and surrounded by a maze of winding streets which eventually lead to the Alcazar, a fairytale castle said to be the inspiration for the castle in Sleeping Beauty Visitors can tour all the rooms of the Alcazar which are exquisitely decorated in period style with tapestries, arms and armour.

The throne room is particularly impressive with its gilded ceiling, as is the hall of arched windows.

A must for any visitor to Segovia is dinner at Meson de Candido where the region’s and house speciality is roasted suckling pig.

The Suckling pig is presented to the restaurant in a ritual dating back centuries, Candido himself reads a royal decree before theatrically quartering the pig with a plate, which he then shatters on the floor.

It was an impressive performance and an experience not to be missed. The restaurant was filled with tourists and locals alike, enjoying the feast.

My next port of call was Burgos, a city with a long tradition of hospitality that has been welcoming pilgrims and travellers since the Middle Ages.

Today, it’s a popular stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago trail, and you’ll find both brass and ceramic shells embedded into the

EXPLORING THE MAGNIFICENT, ANCIENT TOWNS OF BEAUTIFUL CASTILLA Y LEON Leon Burgos

Segovia MADRID

The beautiful Castilla y Leon region of Spain

footpath leading the way.

Staying at the Hotel Meson del Cid in the heart of the old town was a perfect spot from which to explore.

Pilgrims passed by our front door daily and directly opposite stood the famous gothic Cathedral of Burgos.

Also a UNESCO world heritage site, the cathedral contains the tomb of the legendary El Cid, the region’s most famous and fearless warrior.

With parts of it dating to the first half of the 13th century it is one of the foremost examples of gothic art in Europe.

The diversity of gastronomic delights on offer in Burgos will be sure to keep everyone content.

The speciality of Burgos is suckling Lamb so tender it falls off the bone – and as with all towns in the region Burgos has its own take on the Castilla y Leon speciality of Morcilla, a dish very similar to black pudding but

The Alcazar in Segovia is like something from a fairytale

1 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 23

The view of the old, walled city of Segovia from the Alcazar

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

The Hidden Spain

made with rice and quite spicy. Not being a big a big fan of black pudding, I was surprised to quite like it!

Overlooking the city of Burgos the site of the old castle offers a place to enjoy sweeping views of the city and to relax in the adjoining park.

Worth a visit is the Cartuja de Miraflores, a 15th century monastery that can be found on the outskirts of town where the air is filled with the scent of rose oil – just one of the many items the monks produce.

Burgos exudes life, compelling you to explore.

Along with the historical monuments you will not be disappointed by the many fine local boutiques and high-street shops on offer.

Next up on our adventure of the hidden Spain is Leon. In the middle of this now sprawling city, the entrance to the old town can be found within the remaining ancient Roman walls. The old town is a step back in time with winding streets dotted by small shops, cafes and tapas bars.

Pilgrims Leon also played a key role in the route of the Camino de Santiago and again I noticed many brass shells leading the pilgrims’ way.

The city’s two jewels are at either end of the old town: the Cathedral and the Basilica of San Isidoro.

The gothic Cathedral Santa Maria de Leon is

Above, the gothic cathedral of Segovia, while

also referred to as the House of light due to its 1,800 metres of original stained glass windows from the 13th to 15th century.

The Basilica of San Isidoro contains what is said to be the ‘Sistine Chapel’ of the Spanish Romanesque style – a series of frescoes from the 12th century which decorate the underground crypt of the Royal Panthenon.

The museum housed in its cloisters, filled with medieval art and artefacts is steeped in history and is said to be home to the Holy Grail, yes, the real one … you can make up your own mind!

A visit to Leon would not be complete without seeing the stunning Hostel de San Marcos, one of the most historic hotels on the old continent.

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Leon

below, a pair if festive statues in Burgos

Some local treats

The Cathedral of Burgos is a wonderful example of Spanish gothic flair

Marcos pours us a glass

It was commissioned in the 16th century as a military base by King Ferdinand, and has taken on many roles since but now operates as the city’s Parador, offering travellers the opportunity to stay in an exceptional historic building.

On the outskirts of town the modern and colourful Museum of contemporary Art, MUSAC can be found. It is considered to be one of Spains most dynamic art spaces and is definitely worth a stroll around.

As we headed south from Leon and back to Madrid for our flight home we stopped at the Bodegas Grupo Yllera Estate in the Rueda region, which is famous for its outstanding wines.

History With six generations of winemakers in the Yllera family we were taken on a tour of their winery and then treated to a wine-tasting with Marcos Yllera and his father.

While walking through the labyrinth of underground tunnels and corridors we were treated to a rich history of winemaking and a few legends of Greek mythology mixed in with it – namely that of the minotaur.

And finally, what better way to top off a visit to this exceptional estate but with an impressive lunch in their renowned restaurant.

The hosts could not have been more entertaining and a stop at their cellar door is a must before heading back on the road to Madrid and home to Dublin just in time for a wet Christmas.

And as we move into what they call the magical time of the year, a thought struck me – if you haven’t been to Castilla y Leon yet, you have never experienced magic. I can’t wait to go back.

GAZETTE

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

SULLY: PLANE’S REAL-LIFE LANDING IN A NEW YORK RIVER GIVES HANKS A SOLID BIOPIC ROLE

Makes a bit of a splash CLINT Eastwood’s Sully (Cert 12A, 95 mins) is a sincere and thoughtfully crafted tribute to that most American of heroes – the everyday working Joe. This biopic, led with another impossibly endearing performance from Tom Hanks, is admittedly by the book

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

and rarely surprising.

Still, clocking in at just over an hour and a half,

Sully is a thankfully succinct and often affecting testament to Eastwood’s recent favourite subject – the human spirit.

However, based on the events surrounding the miraculous crashlanding of US Airways Flight 1549 on New York’s Hudson River, Sully fails to wholeheart-

edly elevate itself above the realm of the skilful reconstruction.

There’s plenty of emotion here, and a healthy dose of suspicion to liven up the post-crash investigation. Unfortunately, there’s never any real question about who the hero is and, consequently, Eastwood for-

sakes genuine narrative tension.

Hanks plays Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger. On January 15, 2009, while leaving LaGuardia Airport, Sully’s Airbus A320 struck a flock of geese and both engines were immediately disabled.

Despite air traffic control advising him that a safe landing at one of the nearby airports was possible, the film shows how Sully trusted his career-honed instincts and, along with co-pilot Jeff Skiles (Aaron Eckhart), decided to land the plane in the Hudson river, fearing a crash due to lack of altitude.

Sully was right to trust his gut and was hailed as a hero by the press and public alike. Despite this, the pilot has to face a rigorous investigation, which stated that one of the engines may still have been running. This is the focus of Eastwood’s film, not the crash itself.

While the events that followed the landing are undeniably dramatic,

they’re not all that interesting to watch.

Cleverly, Eastwood holds our attention by peppering the events of the crash throughout the film, instead of presenting the ordeal as a continuous narrative.

T he main event is drip-fed to us in a number of flashbacks – some of which trick us with a nightmarish dose of PTSD. Sully is haunted by the event and often envisions himself flying the plane into a New York skyscraper.

These segments carry t h e f i l m ’s d r a m a t i c weight, anchoring the often-perfunctory investigation narrative.

For all the administrative cynicism that follows the events, it’s hard not to be touched by the myriad acts of everyday heroism in the wake of the crash.

As with most of Eastwood’s directorial output since 2008’s Gran Torino, the drama in Sully is buried under several rubbery slices of American cheese.

While there was something notably offputting about that same a p p r o a c h i n 2 014 ’s American Sniper, here it is both affecting and infectious.

Although this story about uncomplicated heroes may be a muchneeded dose of optimism in the morally divided wasteland of contemporary America, Sully’s unambiguous emotional focus makes for a somewhat less than compelling narrative.

Still, for all its deliberate melodrama, Sully has the power to move and inspire.

Fighting his case, Sully often decries the removal of the “human factor” from the simulations used to assess the disaster. Eastwood makes sure that the human factor – the human spirit – is the focus of his story.

Accordingly, for all its formula-driven drama, Sully treats us to a little bit more faith in humanity.

Verdict: 7/10

As captain and co-pilot of US Airways Flight 1549, Tom Hanks and Aaron Eckhart deliver typically likeable everyman roles, in a film which explores the aftermath

1 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

Nespresso opens pop up boutique at Arnotts  EMMA NOLAN

A NEW Nespresso Pop Up boutique in Arnotts has just opened in time for the festive season.

The Pop Up forms part of the brand’s v i s i o n t o p r ov i d e increased access to its high-quality coffee for Ireland’s Nespresso customers.

The new boutique will complement the wide range of Nespresso machines and bespoke accessories available at Arnotts and will give coffee connoisseurs the

opportunity to experience the Nespresso Grands Crus in a relaxing and engaging setting.

Francisco Nogueira, Nespresso UK & Ireland managing director, said: “We’re excited to be hosting this new boutique in Arnotts.

We have seen fantastic growth across Ireland and we receive almost daily requests for more boutiques to open.

“The new boutique will help customers get their favourite Grands Crus in time for the festive season.”

GAZETTE

FOOD BATES SEAFOOD CHOWDER RECIPE Ingredients 2 small onions, finely chopped 2 celery sticks, thinly sliced 50g butter 1 tbsp flour 500ml fish stock Splash of pastis 250ml cream 2 bay leaves 200g salmon, skinned & cut into bite-sized pieces 200g sea bass, skinned & cut into bite-sized pieces 20 mussels, scrawled & de-bearded Salt & pepper 4 king prawns, to serve 2 tbsp chives, chopped Instructions

Heat the butter in a large saucepan over low to medium heat & fry the onions, celery & bay leaves until vegetables are soft but not brown. Add the flour & cook for a minute.

Stir in the pot fish stock, add a splash of pastis & simmer for two minutes. Stir in the salmon & sea bass & cook until the fish is opaque.

Add mussels & prawns during the last 2 minutes of the fish’s cooking time. Stir through the cream & season well with salt & pepper.

To serve, ladle the chowder into warmed serving bowls, add lemon juice, sprinkle juice over the chives & serve with plenty of crusty bread.

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 December 2016

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GAZETTE

28 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 December 2016

SPORT

FastSport MONKSTOWN GO TOP OF MEN’S HOCKEY LEAGUE: MONKSTOWN took advantage of Banbridge and Cork C of I’s postponement to move up two places into top spot in the men’s EY Hockey League thanks to a 3-1 win over UCD. Top two prior to the weekend, Bann and C of I were due to meet on Saturday but, with the threat of frost in Co Down, the decision was taken on Friday evening to err on the side of caution and avoid the potential for a lengthy wasted journey.

As such, Town took their chance to move top as they came from a goal behind to beat UCD. Jazze Henry’s classy opening goal was quickly countered by a Lee Cole drag-flick before Davy Carson added a double before half-time to complete the scoring.

At the bottom, Sandymount’s Railway Union and Glenanne both picked up crucial wins. For the former, they saw off bottom side Instonians, cutting the Belfast side five points adrift in a 4-3 defeat.

CROSS COUNTRY: MULTIPLE IRISH CALL-UPS FOR EUROPEAN SQUAD FOR DUBLINERS

Raheny and DSDAC star at nationals

 sport@dublingazette.com

SHONA Heaslip surprised even herself while Mark Christie rolled back the years as they took the senior Irish Life Health national cross country titles at an atmospheric Abbotstown last weekend.

It came on a super day for Dundrum South Dublin AC as they won a series

of titles across the team and youth disciplines, earning a series of international call-ups.

T he pur pose-build Sport Ireland national cross country course provided the perfect spectacle in ideal racing conditions.

While it may have been cold for spectators, it was anything but on the course from Under-12 level right

up to the seniors.

Heaslip’s shock victory in the senior women’s 8,000m came in a time of 28.13 with Kerry O’Flaherty pipping prerace favourite Ciara Mageean, from UCD, at the finish by one second in 28.23 for second place.

“Driving up, I was hoping to be the first Under-23 athlete,” said the delighted

Sophie Murphy takes a picture of her medal with her mother Mary Rutledge.

Picture: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

Raheny celebrate their senior men’s title. Picture: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

Heaslip afterwards. She had shown little form coming into the race but the last month she managed to change things around focusing solely on her running.

“I felt good in the race but I had to check myself running alongside the other girls who I had watched on television in the summer,” referring to Rio Olympians O’Flaherty and Mageean.

As a result, Bethanie Murray (DSD) won the Under-23 race with Amy O’Donoghue second and Elizabeth Carr third.

Mark Christie rolled back the years to win the senior men’s 10,000m title in 30.41 ahead of Raheny Shamrocks’ Mick Clohisey second in 30.53 and Mark Hanrahan third in 30:57.

Clohisey was aiming for

four straight wins but had the consolation of guiding Raheny Shamrock to the club’s first senior men’s team title in their history.

They had finished second eight times in the last 11 years, making the victory all the sweeter. Dundrum South Dublin were equally dominant winning the senior women’s team race.

DSD’s Sophie Murphy was a strong winner of the junior women’s 4,000m in 14:18 ahead of Blackrock’s Amy Rose Farrell and Rathfarnham WSAF’s Carla Sweeney.

Athletes that caught the eye in the underage races were Sarah Healy (Blackrock) and Louis O’Loughlin (Donore Harriers) who had too much for their counterparts in the U-16 girls and U-16 boys.

The performances from local athletes means there will be a strong contingent in the Irish team for the European Cross Country Championships in Chia, Italy on December 11.

Clohisey and his club mate Kevin Dooney will be in the senior men’s selection of six athletes for the marquee event.

Rathfarnham’s Mitchell Byrne forms part of the two-man U-23 contingent while Bethanie Murray is joined in the U-23 women’s crew by Emerald’s Amy O’Dononghue.

The junior girls selection features DSD’s Sophie Murphy and Jodie McCann, Blackrock’s Amy Rose Farrell, WSAF’s Carla Sweeney along with Emma O’Brien, from Inbhear Dee/Sli Cualann, and Aisling Joyce from Claremorris AC.

Ronan six-year reign finishes with “perfect end”  sport@dublingazette.com

Sue Ronan receives a guard of honour following her final game as manager. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

SUE Ronan signed off on her sixyear tenure as Republic of Ireland Women’s national team head coach with an impressive 2-1 win over the Basque Country.

Player of the match Leanne Kiernan, who scored a hat-trick for Shelbourne Ladies in the women’s senior cup final at the Aviva Stadium, scored her first international goal to win the game for the Girls in Green.

Ireland were impressive throughout and it was Shankill native Stephanie Roche who

opened the scoring in the 24th minute. Kiernan was fouled just outside the box after a mazy run and Roche picked out the top corner with a sublime free-kick to put the hosts ahead.

Basque Country found a response before the break with an excellent strike. Yulema Corres found space on the edge of the area and fired home past Arsenal stopper Emma Byrne to level the tie.

Ireland came out stronger in the second-half and Kiernan got the goal she deserved in the 52nd minute. UCD Waves forward Aine

O’Gorman chipped the ball over the Basque defence and Kiernan used her pace to race clear and coolly slot home to give the Irish the win.

Sue Ronan was delighted with the performance and admitted the occasion was an emotional sendoff after six years in charge of the WNT, receiving a guard of honour from her players.

Ronan said: “It was the perfect end with the perfect performance.

There was a lot of things going on before the game but the players were focused and delivered a great performance.

“It was a great goal from Stephanie Roche but maybe we didn’t refocus well enough to let them back in the game. The second-half was immense though.

“Leanne Kiernan was fantastic and she took her goal really well, and there were a lot of great performances across the pitch.

“It’s been a great six years.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it to a finals but I couldn’t have any more from the players over the period. “It was a lovely end, I’ve been humbled by the tributes from clubs, supporters and former players from across the country.”

1 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Warrior John shows skills at Takeover 8

World famous coach John Kavanagh joins Dun Laoghaire gym in honouring teenager with Down syndrome for training ethic; coach Cian Cowley talks to GazetteSport about his star pupil  KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

WHILE not for everyone, Cian Cowley’s ‘Warriors Thai Boxing Gym’ are showing that there is a place for inclusivity as Sallynoggin native John Mooney took centre stage in their Takeover 8 event last weekend.

Warriors trainer Cowley is an established Muay Thai fighter turned MMA hopeful. As such, he is fully aware of the reputation combat sports holds in some quarters, but he also knows that if anybody walked into his gym, there needs to be a welcoming family atmosphere for all to experience.

At the heart of this atmosphere is Mooney.

He has Down syndrome but has quickly become one of the gym’s most active members and does not let anything hold him

back from getting involved in the sport he loves.

“You talk to anybody who trains here and they will tell you it’s different than any other gym,” Cowley told Gazette Sport. “Serious work gets done but, at the same time, there is such a good family atmosphere. There is always such a good buzz in the gym and John is training every day.”

It is has led to the introduction of a new club belt with Mooney showcasing his skills in a safe and structured way at a number of the gym’s Takeover events.

The belt was presented to him by John Kavanagh, Conor McGregor’s world renowned coach.

“Other people on the outside probably look at it and think maybe it’s a bit of a hindrance having somebody with a disability, as if it’s going to slow

John Mooney, centre, with Cian Cowley and John Kavanagh

us down,” Cowley added.

“But John comes into the class and does what he’s told. When other lads see that, it gives them a drive and it shows you the atmosphere we have.”

His participation in the gym opens up a new perception of the sport, providing a sporting outlet for people of all abilities and backgrounds.

Cowley continues: “I have gotten a lot more respect off people. [Some] people look down on us because we fight and class us as scumbags. I don’t see it like that and seeing the way we are with John down here makes other people look on us differently.

“When we had him on the show, a lot of people there didn’t know how it was going to go. But I knew it was going to be cool because it felt like a normal day for me, with

him being in the gym every day.”

The fact that somebody like Kavanagh has taken such notice of a Muay Thai gym shows the impact that Cowley, his gym, and Mooney can make on the combat sport in Ireland. “[John Kavanagh] is always asking me about John so when I told him he was fighting, he came

company but they know all about the little gym in a seaside town on the other side of the world. This is largely down to the waves Cowley has been making since he made the decision to switch his focus from Muay Thai to MMA. “They have had an eye on me for a while so they signed me up as a sponsored athlete. But

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

‘Other lads see John down here and it gives them a drive, showing the atmosphere we have’ -Cian Cowley -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

down. Conor [McGregor] was supposed to come as well because he’s also aware who he is but he couldn’t make it that night.

It brings everyone together and lets them know that we are all the same.”

The gym itself is starting to put itself on the map thanks to Cowley and their new sponsorship with a world renowned company.

Fightlab may be a Thai

one thing led to another and they liked what I was doing with the gym so they offered to come onboard.

“The gym is not a profit organisation so it was always hard for me to get new gear. Now, they have come in and completely revamping the whole thing for me. It is like the equivalent of a sprinter being sponsored by Nike so I can’t thank them enough for what they have done.”

Cowley’s gym received a big boost from Fightlab

FASTSport

Orchard progress in FAI inter and Noel Ryan Cups CHERRY Orchard’s Sunday side put three past Malahide United for the second time this season as the LSL Sunday senior title-challengers put a bad run of league form behind them to progress in the FAI Intermediate Cup. Newly promoted Orchard had taken just one point from the last three league games as their form dipped in the Sunday senior following a spectacular start to the season, with holders Bluebell United and Mochta’s drawing alongside them at the summit of Leinster football’s highest tier.

The side on display in the cup had more in common with the team that came from two down to defeat Malahide in Ballyfermot on the first day of the season, however, with Ryan Coombes taking charge of proceedings with a first half hat-trick to swat aside struggling United at Elmdale.

Orchard secured their place in the last-16 draw largely thanks to what’s become their main strength this season, impressive wing play, though Coombes spectacular third strike showed the more nuanced quality this fast-rising side have to offer.

The ex-St Patrick’s Athletic man scored two tap ins to give the home side control, the first with his head and the second his foot, both from those trade-mark crosses.

Having put away the easy ones, Coombes then showed he can do it the hard way, too, taking on what felt like half of the Malahide defence with some direct running as he reached his personal milestone and effectively put the game to bed before half time.

Malahide did pull a goal back in a less inspiring second half, but Orchard continue their progress towards the Aviva in relative comfort, despite facing top-division opposition.

The club also progressed in the Noel Ryan Cup over the weekend, with a hard-fought win over Terenure College.

It was Jack O’Connor who did the business in a tightly-contested battle, scoring a penalty and sliding home a swift move in a 2-0 win.

Terenure felt hard done by, having had a goal disallowed and also taken issue with what they felt was a soft penalty, but couldn’t make their way back into the game.

GAZETTE

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 1 December 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

Castleknock 12A1 side plays out final thriller CASTLEKNOCK Celtic and Peamount United’s Under-12A1 sides played out a lively final game of 2016, drawing their shield final 2-2 before the Greenogue side prevailed in a shoot-out.

It was the last game of the curtailed season as schoolboy football prepares for summer football with the two clubs topping their respective league sections.

In front of a good crowd, Peamount started the brighter and went 1-0 ahead early on before Castleknock got out of the blocks.

Caitlin La Bont shot just wide and Esse Okirikpo saw his well struck shot deflected for a corner.

And they got level when the impressive Tara O’Hanlon won a free kick 30 yards out.

Up stepped Luke Hughes who struck a wondrous free kick into the top corner of the net for 1-1 at half-time.

The Peas got back in front in the second half when they latched onto a loose clearance and poked home.

Again, Celtic refused to panic as they went in search of the equaliser.

With10 minutes left, Celtic moved La Bont up front with Ben Forde stepping into a two man defence.

In the growing pressure, Hughes swung in a corner and Ryan McGregor headed in for 2-2 and extra time.

Half time came and went in a flash but the pace and standard of the game remained high as all the players gave their all and neither team giving an inch.

It meant the shoot-out was soon to follow and, after seven rounds of penalties, it was the Peas who had the luck on their side to win out 6-5 in dramatic circumstances.

The performance bodes well for both clubs in 2017 in the new format with Castleknock having rise four tiers during the last few years while there are three members of the panel who had played 10 divisions below this level last term, showing their development.

SOCCER: BLANCH CLUB WEIGHING UP NDSL AND DDSL OPTIONS

Corduff Under-15 Premier side continued their unbeaten run for three years

Duff’s three year streak NDSL U-15 PREMIER

Corduff 1 Ratoath Harps 1  sport@dublingazette.com

CORDUFF FC came from behind to draw 1-1 away to Ratoath Harps, continuing their three year unbeaten run in the NDSL Under15 Premier 1.

It was a top of the table clash, with Corduff having won their first six games of the season and Ratoath going into the game on the back of three wins and two draws. The Blanchardstown side are now seven points ahead of their opponents who remain in second but with a game in hand over the table toppers.

Corduff started the game brightly with the home keeper having to produce a string of great saves to keep the score at 0-0 going into the break.

Ibraheam Badru, stepping in to replace Corduff’s first choice keeper, was called into action early in the second half and produced a couple of good saves before Ratoath took the lead.

The visitors moved up a couple of gears in response and began to test their opponent’s keeper once more.

They finally got the goal they deserved after some nice play by Rabby Tabu and Ruben Marques.

Ratoath tried desperately

CHRISTMAS RUN Leinster stars launch Aware annual event LEINSTER stars Adam Byrne, Isa Nacewa and Peter Dooley, back row, along with Tom Daly, Dominic Ryan and Noel Reid, front row were on hand in Leinster Rugby HQ to launch the Aware Christmas Run which takes place on Saturday, December 10 in the Phoenix Park.

Registration for the event is at aware.ie and Aware hope to raise €60,000 to help them provide support, education and information services around depression and bipolar disorder.

Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

to defend and managed to block two shots from reaching the goal but when the loose ball fell to the feet of Marques, he dropped his shoulder before chipping a delightful shot over the onrushing keeper to level.

Corduff look likely to win the league once again in this shortened season with the switch to summer football, continuing their incredible run of success.

A suggestion has been made that the club should switch from the North Dublin leagues to the Dublin and District Schoolboy League. And club PRO John McGuinness said it is something they have considered.

“If we were to change leagues we would have to change league for all teams, that’s the challenge we face,” he told GazetteSport. “We have looked into it in the last year and we haven’t ruled it out because that team is the only one in the history of football in Dublin 15 that has ever gotten to an AllIreland final.

“It is not the only strong side in the club but it gives you an idea of where we are going at schoolboy level.

“The other situation is that, within the NDSL, we have players are members of the academy and they are getting looked at so some of them are going to

cross the water.

“We’re not guaranteed that will happen should we move leagues so there is a pro and a con for both sides of the argument.”

The NDSL academy offers club players the opportunity to play elite football through the FAI’s emerging talent programme.

“We are trying to find a balancing act were we can keep our teams competitive but also to keep them happy and provide the best opportunities. Up until this point that has happened because of the NDSL academy where our strongest players are getting an opportunity out there.”

1 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

TOP SPONSOR

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

Castleknock and Camile celebrate first season

ST BRIGID’S

CASTLENOCK GAA and Camile, Dublin 15, came together to celebrate the first anniversary of the local business’s support of the ladies adult and minor sections.

At the event Camile proprietor Turlough Blessing was full of praise for the Ladies section and wished them continued success. Knock’s Julie Rogers, Denise Convery and Aoife Whelan are pictured in their sponsored kit. Picture: Shay Hogan

ST BRIGID’S AGM will take place on

bers and families are always welcome.

December 4 in the clubhouse. See the

For further information and queries,

club website for further details.

contact David on 085 8340169.

The ladies football AGM will take

Our lotto jackpot remains at €15,000

place on Thursday, December 1 at

with the reserve now also at €15,000.

8.30pm in the Russell Park clubhouse.

There was no jackpot winner in last

All adult players and parents of juve-

week’s draw.

nile members should attend.

HURLING: INTERS ADD TO SENIOR AND JUNIOR GLORY

This week’s draw will take place in

Well done to our junior hurlers who

Myos on Friday, December 2. Many

beat Na Fianna in the Millar Shield Final

thanks to everyone who supports our

on Sunday afternoon.

club lotto and to our great lotto com-

Congratulations to our inter hurlers on their promotion to AHL3 for 2017.

mittee.

St Brigid’s/Spleodar Irish Club for teenagers runs every Thursday in the

The camogie section are hosting

club hall from 7-9pm. Open to all but

Crazy Bingo in the clubhouse on Sun-

Irish must be spoken at all times. Cost

day, December 4 at 2pm. All support

is €3 per week.

welcome.

The St Brigid’s children’s Christmas

The St Brigid’s nursery runs every

party will take place in the clubhouse

Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30am

on Sunday, December 11. Sam Maguire

to 11am. We welcome all four to sev-

will be in attendance and we will have

en-year-olds in the Castleknock and

live music from the Army Band from

Blanchardstown area and new mem-

7pm also.

CASTLEKNOCK BEST wishes to our minor footballers

bharr a hobair cruna. Beidh Bairdre

in their league semi-final this week

ag filleadh go dti a club fein, chun tuil-

against St Vincent’s.

leadh obair a dheanamh ar thionsca-

Sincere thanks to all who supported

dail eile. Guimid gach rath uirthi is ar

the Wine Fair in aid of Crumlin Chil-

a teaghlach don thodhchai. Beimid fior

dren’s Hospital.

bhuioch go deo.” - Coiste Scor Atha

Thanks also to all who contributed The St Brigid’s intermediate hurlers that won promotion last week

Brigid’s goals galore as good times roll on AHL4 PLAYOFF FINAL St Brigid’s Bray Emmets  sport@dublingazette.com

4-14 2-15

ST BRIGID’S intermediate hurlers added to a hugely positive two weeks for the hurling fraternity in Russell Park as they claimed promotion to AHL3 for 2017.

Following on from the senior hurlers cup final win and the junior hurlers league promotion last week, the intermediates faced Wicklow senior hurling champions Bray Emmett’s in the league final.

T he Wicklow club entered the Dublin leagues three years ago and claimed back-toback promotions in 2015 and 2016.

On Tuesday night, however, their promotion gallop fell at the final hurdle to a fine Brigid’s side.

A three-goal scoring blitz midway through the first half proved the decisive period in the game.

With the sides level at 0-2 each after 10 minutes, goals from Dara Doyle, Pat Rohan and Cian O’Sullivan gave the Russell Park men

a 3-6 to 0-7 half time advantage.

As expected, Bray responded in the second half and had the margin back to three points, due in part to some superb free taking.

Indeed, the gap could have been closer were it not for Tadhg Brannigan in the Brigid’s goal who pulled off a brilliant one-on-one save.

Within 90 seconds of Brannigan’s save, the game’s decisive score arrived as Eoin Thynne rifled to the net after fine work from Sean O’Malley and Sean Keegan in the build-up.

Thynne’s score restored the gap to six points and, with Fergal Counih a n n ow o p e r a t i n g as a sweeper, Brigid’s attempted to close out the game.

Further points from JP Costigan, Ciaran Kellet and Stephen Moore extended the home side’s advantage and, despite some frantic late Bray pressure, Brigids held on for a 4-14 to 2-15 victory.

The win see’s St Brigid’s now having three teams in Dublin’s top six divisions and ends the 2017 season on a high note.

Cliath.

non-perishable foods to the Crosscare

Sport agus Spraoi De Sathairn –

Christmas Appeal. We are collecting

our nursery, in association with Tiger

again this weekend for this appeal so

Childcare, for four to seven-year-olds

just drop non-perishable food to the

is back in full swing and new members

nursery on Saturday at CCC from 10am

are very welcome.

to 11.30am.

Just come down to Tir na nOg beside

Sincere thanks to the ESB and Jim

Castleknock Community College this

Mahony on the contribution from the

Saturday at 10am, say hello to one of

ESB in relation to their commitment to

our friendly coaches and enjoy the

the community programme. Well done

sport and fun.

to our ladies sponsor Camile on their first year as ladies section sponsor.

The club shop will also be there and its a great opportunity to order good-

Nursery Christmas par ty is on

ies for Christmas. Cash for Clobber is

December 10 at CCC from 2pm. Don’t

ongoing; just drop down old clothes to

miss it; great fun for all.

Somerton.

Congrats to Bairbre Ni Neill who

The lotto jackpot was not won. The

has retired from her demanding role

jackpot now stands at €2,400. Mile

as Oifigeach na Gaeilge with the Dub-

buiochas as an tacaiocht leanunach

lin County Board. “Ta CLG Atha Cliath

– sincere thanks for your continued

nios saibhre agus nios laidre anois de

support.

ERIN GO BRAGH HARD luck to the St Catherine’s minor footballers in their championship final defeat at the weekend.

The club will be bag packing in Dunnes Stores on December 9 and 10 and are looking for volunteers. Call Finbarr on 086 3837411.

Our Christmas party takes place on December 9 in the Grasshopper.

Tickets are on sale now, contact Mar-

garet O’Reilly.

Our AGM is due to take place on Thursday, December 1 at 8pm in the clubhouse has been postponed and will take place at a later date.

Our adult teams are always looking for players. Anyone interested in playing football can call George on 087 9709795.

Anyone interested in playing hurling can contact Karl on 087 2352074.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

DECEMBER 1-7, 2016

WINNING STREAK: Corduff Under-15s make it three years without defeat as DDSL move considered P30

WARRIOR JOHN’S SPECIAL BELT:

Southside gym honours star club member at Takeover 8 event P29

Plunkett’s land Senior BFC silverware  sport@dublingazette.com

ST OLIVER Plunkett’s/ Eoghan Ruadh won the 2016 Dublin senior B football championship after defeating last year’s winners, Cuala, 0-12 to 0-11 in their decider at Parnell Park.

The Navan Road side opened very impressively but were made battle all the way in a competitive battle.

Plunkett’s led 0-7 to 0-6 at the break having moved 0-4 to 0-0 clear inside just six minutes.

Leigh Herron, Tomas Corrigan (free), Gareth Smith and David Kelly were all on target before Cuala finally opened their account.

But the Cuala lads fired back with scores from James Power, Luke Keating, Niall Carthy and a free from goalkeeper Darren McBrien to draw level by the 18th minute.

It got better for the southsiders when a Luke Keating free edged them in front as Cuala slotted their fifth points

without reply.

Niall Walsh got Plunkett’s first point in 15 minutes before a second free from Tomás Corrigan put the Navan Road side back in front, 0-6 to 0-5 in the 22nd minute.

But, in this ding-dong battle, Luke Keating equalised before against Plunkett’s forged ahead again thanks to a point from Alan Brogan. The second half continued along the pattern established towards the close of the opening one.

A Tomas Corrigan free

extended Plunkett’s lead to 0-8 to 0-6 but Con O’Callaghan reduced it to the minimum again.

The sides continued to exchange points until late in the battle with points from Padraic Lee and a Gareth Smith free had Plunkett’s 0-12 to 0-10 clear with five minutes left.

Keating, with a free, cut the deficit to one with three minutes to go but Cuala could not muster the winning scores or force the game into extra-time.

St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh captain Alan Brogan. Picture: We Are Dublin