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December 8 - 14, 2016

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Shock as father of two blasted six times in back  IAN BEGLEY

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you The cordoned-off scene of the shooting

T WO y o u n g c h i l d r e n escaped with their lives after their dad was gunned down in Mulhuddart this week.

Father of two Charlie Cooper (38) was hit up to

six times when a hitman fired through the rear window of his home in Parlickstown Green.

Superintendent Liam Carolan, of Blanchardstown Garda Station, said at a press conference that the victim’s partner and two

young children were present in the house during the attack, but were unharmed in the incident.

He said: “No one else was injured in the attack, but clearly there was a huge risk. The man’s children could have been injured, or

worse, because of the number of bullets discharged.”

Supt Carolan added it is unclear if the gunman, who was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava, was accompanied by a driver or if he left the scene by himself.

Full Story on Page 4

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

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COURTS | SERIOUSLY ILL ACCUSED MAY HAVE HIS LEGS AMPUTED

Samurai attack on sister-in-law A GRANDFATHER who came after his sister-inlaw with a samurai sword and a kitchen knife is seriously ill and may need to have his legs amputated in the future, a judge has been told.

James Cash (59), with an address at Sheephill Ave, Blanchardstown, was under the inf luence of alcohol and tablets when he knocked on Pamela Creighton’s granny flat in Blanchardstown last year and tried to attack her with a sword and knife, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard this week.

Cash pleaded guilty to two counts of producing a weapon at Corduff Ave, Blanchardstown on November 30, 2015.

Defence counsel Mark

Lynam BL said Cash suffered from a number of health issues, including severe heart disease, and had undergone a number of surgeries. “Further surgery may require amputation as he has no circulation in his legs,” he said.

Judge Melanie Greally expressed surprise that “someone claiming to have a serious medical condition was capable of committing the acts he committed” just one year ago. “ I t d i d n ’t p r e ve n t him from behaving in a very menacing manner indeed,” she said.

She adjourned the matter in order to get a probation services report.

Cash will be sentenced on February 17 next year.

Sergeant Louise

Guerin told prosecuting counsel, Lisa Dempsey BL, that Ms Creighton and her husband were preparing to go to bed in their granny flat at the rear of their daughter’s home around 1am when they heard a knock on the door.

Ms Creighton assumed it was her daughter and opened the door, to find her brother-in-law, James Cash, standing outside with a sword and a knife in his hand.

Struggle A str uggle ensued, with Ms Creighton’s husband, Bernard Creighton, wresting the weapons out of Cash’s hands. He then chased Cash into the garden and gardai were called.

Cash has 17 previous convictions, 15 of which occurred between 1979 and 1986. They include theft, burglary, drinkdriving and criminal damage offences.

Defence counsel said Cash, who has three children and eight grandchildren, was separated from his wife at the time of the offence and was abusing alcohol and tablets.

“He was in an agitated state and the whole thing was a bit of a blur,” Mr Lynam said.

Cash has since reconciled with his wife and has “cleaned up his act” with regards to alcohol, the court heard. He was remorseful for his actions that night.

“We have someone who is in a very vulner-

able state, who is in very poor health,” Mr Lynam said.

He added that Cash, who was wearing an o p e n - n e c ke d s h i r t , wished to apologise to the judge for not wearing a tie, as he was unable to wear one due to respiratory issues.

HOUSING A R E yo u wo r r i e d about property – whether trying to rent or share a home, sell yours, or buying a new one?

Michael Russell writes on how 2017 could see a number of steps begin to help the market.

SEE PAGE 12

That’s right babe – we want everybody to support Crumlin TV3 presenter and CMRF Crumlin ambassador Lucy Kennedy was delighted to help these tiny tots launch CMRF Crumlin’s Tiny Hearts Christmas appeal, to raise money for life-saving new equipment in the cardiology unit, as well as funding vital research and equipment. So have a heart, and help keep tiny hearts beating with a donation of €45, €80 or €250. Call 1890 5075 08, or see www.cmrf.org.

FASTNews

Fundraising to raise more awareness for Red Cross MEMBERS of the Irish Red Cross fundraising team will be in Tyrrelstown and Mulhuddart on Monday, December 12 to raise funds for the charity’s work in Ireland and overseas.

You can spot an Irish Red Cross fundraiser by their Irish Red Cross branded bib and ID badges with. Their badges include their fundraiser number, their name, confirmation that they are a paid fundraiser and a contact number for the national fundraising office.

The team will be fundraising in the community for five days to improve public awareness of the work of the Irish Red Cross and to ask for support. Fundraising of this type allows the charity to plan ahead and respond to emergencies as they occur.

It enables the Irish Red Cross to remain on the scene long after a disaster has struck, often after the cameras and news teams have disappeared, to help communities rebuild their lives.

Any enquiries about the team can be made to the fundraising office on 01 642 4600 or fundraising@ redcross.ie.

Castleknock Hotel wins 2016 Excellence Award CASTLEKNOCK Hotel and Country Club has won the Best Place to Eat Excellence Award at the 14th annual Fingal Dublin Business Excellence and Corporate Social Responsibility Awards 2016.

Over 490 people attended the gala awards presentation evening last month in Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport, showcasing Fingal Dublin as a centre of business innovation.

Mystery diners were dispatched, seeking innovative menus, top-notch food quality, outstanding customer service and comfort.

The mystery diner said of Castleknock Hotel and Country Club: “The food was first class and very high quality indeed. I was made feel welcome at all times and the staff really did excel in their customer service. I would be happy to recommend it to family and friends.”

Upon receiving the award, Castleknock Hotel and Country Club head chef Neal Kearns said “we are delighted to be awarded this highly coveted accolade. We always try to offer the best for our guests. We are constantly striving to improve our menu, our offerings and our standards and I’m proud of the work and effort of the whole team here at Castleknock.”

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

GazetteGALLERY | WHAT EXCITEMENT FOR ALL THE MANCHESTER UNITED FANS

Heroes appear

Manchester United stars Jesse Lingard and Phil Jones were in Dublin today to celebrate Life Style Sports’ new flagship store on Mary Street. They were greeted in store by 50 competition winners and on street by hundreds of United fans ahead of their UEFA Europa League clash against Zorya Luhansk on Thursday, December 8th. Phil Jones and Jesse Lingard are pictured with a selection of competition winners.

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

MULHUDDART | VICTIM WAS TARGETED NEAR HIS HOME AS HIS FAMILY WERE INSIDE

Father in serious condition after being shot 6 times  IAN BEGLEY NEIGHBOURS of the father shot six times near his home in Mulhuddart believe he may have been shot with a silenced firearm as they did not hear the attack take place.

The victim, named locally as Charlie Cooper (38), was targeted near his home in Parslickstown

Green on Monday night at about 8.20pm.

The gunman wearing dark clothes and a balaclava approached Cooper outside his home while his two young children and partner were inside.

He fired upon his target and chased him across a road into a nearby garden before discharging several more rounds.

Cooper was treated by medical staff at the scene before being transferred to Connolly hospital. He currently remains in a serious but stable condition.

One resident of Parslicktown told The Gazette she was very surprised that she didn’t hear anything as she lives so close to the victim.

“I was in my sitting

room watching television when the shooting happened. I wasn’t even aware of what was going on until I saw the blue lights of the guards and ambulance rush into the estate.

“I’ve known Charlie all my life and it was a very sad thing to hear. No one deserves to have something like that happen to them. Hopefully the person who is responsible is caught soon,” she said.

Another woman who lives in the Mulhuddart

The cordoned-off scene of the shooting

estate said many people in the area believe that Mr Cooper was shot with a silenced pistol as they did not hear the firearm being discharged.

“It’s a terrible thing to happen so close to us.

I remember when that shopkeeper around the corner was killed in a shooting like this a couple of years ago and the whole estate was cordoned off.

“Anyone who I’ve talked to about this didn’t hear the shots being fired either and think that he must have been shot with a silencer” she said.

A large crowd gathered at the scene in the aftermath of the shooting as garda forensic officers carried out a technical examination of the area.

The injured man is not believed to be involved

in criminality, although it is understood that his associates are known to gardai.

The incident comes just three days after the shooting dead of Mark Desmond in Lucan last Friday night.

No arrests have been made and gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on 01 666 7000.

Invizbox jump into first place with award It was a case of second time lucky for Dublin-start-up Invizbox, maker of a promising personal VPN hardware device, when it emerged as the winner of annual start-up competition JumpStart 2016. Last year Invizbox was a runner up in the competition, which takes place at the LINC (Learning and Innovation Centre) at the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown. Pictured left is Paul Canavan of Invizbox and above Bobby Kerr, head of the judging panel presenting Vincent Riou, Paul and Elizabeth Canavan and Chris Monks of Invizbox.

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

You are invited to

Family & Friends

Weekend

This Weekend there will be huge discounts off all accessories including Christmas trees, wreaths, baubles, decorations & dinnerware.

Join us for the opening night this Friday 9th December from 4pm where we will be offering 50% off all Christmas accessories for one night only.

Visit EZ Living Furniture Airside, Blanchardstown & Fonthill, Dublin for an evening of Christmas cheer and live music with complimentary mulled wine, fruit punch, hot chocolate and seasonal bites.

Our special way of saying Thank You!

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ACCESSORIES ONE NIGHT ONLY

Exclusive to:

Airside Retail Park, Swords, Dublin Blanchardstown Retail Park, Dublin Fonthill Retail Park, Dublin

www.ezlivingfurniture.ieie Tel: 0818 222272

#EZLivingChristmas

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

Out and About

Richard and Matie McCabe with Des Kelly

Off they go-ho ho to help ill children It’s a sea of festive red as all the Santas prepare to set off along the route. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Supporting their dads, David Murphy (8) and Preston Murray (7)

On yer bike ya good thing!

T

HERE was a huge turn out for this years Laurels Charity Crew Santa Cycle to raise much needed funds for Crumlin Children’s Hospital. The atmosphere was dynamite, with flashing fairy lights, red noses and santas galore. To date, they’ve raised over €600,000 for CMRF by staging charity cycles from Galway to Dublin, 10k fun runs and – now in its second year, the Santa Cycle from the Phoenix Park to Clondalkin village via the city centre, passing by Crumlin Children’s Hospital on the way.

Georgina Moore, John Moran, Elisabeth Harling and Lisa Cullen

It’s a battle of the fittest as they pedal towards the finishing line

A snowman and Santa

Gerry, Pauline and Ryan McCarthy

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

Out and About

Joe Whyte and John Browne

Michelle Gereghty, Catherine Smith, Pat Fleming, Theresa Hardy and Margaret Fleming

Derval Cleland and her pooch Biscuit

Alan Dolan and Rudolph

Delighted to be off

Joanne Reilly and Angela Quinlan

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

BLANCH | STAFF REACT AS THEIR JOBS ARE LOST JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Pumpkin Patch workers stage a sit-in protest  AISLING KENNEDY WORKERS at the Pumpkin Patch clothing store in Blanchardstown Centre staged a sit-in after being told their jobs have been terminated.

Employees at the children’s retailer were handed a letter last week informing them that Deloitte have been placed as liquidators on the company, which will go into liquidation on December 14.

“We hereby give notice of termination of your employment with the company by reason of redundancy effective immediately, December

2 2016, due to the company’s insolvency,” the letter read.

“We can confirm that you will be paid your salary up to November 27, 2016.”

Pumpkin Patch has two stores in Dublin, at Blanchardstow n and Liffey Valley, with a total of 21 people employed between them – with some working at the company for up to six years.

Approximately nine women who worked in the Blanch store refused to leave until they were paid the full week’s wages that they were due.

The women negotiated with the liquidator until

Pumpkin Patch, Blanchardstown Centre

they resolved the issue and were paid the week’s wages in cash.

One of the workers sent Deputy Ruth Coppinger (AAA), who visited the store, a message informing her of the news.

“Just to say that we

have received in cash monies due to us, given that it’s Christmas. Staff were happy to accept this rather than potentially nothing and to wait three months for it.

While Christmas will still be hard [we are] happy

to get redundancy after Christmas,” she said.

Deputy Coppinger added: “I salute these women for taking a stand and they would have got nothing if they hadn’t.

Disgusting that they were sacked and then put under such pressure to worry if Santy would be a possibility this Christmas.

“While this company is apparently not solvent ... we need to fight to change a system that treats people in this expendable way,” she said.

Cllr Matt Wayne(AAA), who also visited the worker during their sitin said: “I think the State

should step in and seize the assets of the company and continue to operate it as a growing concern with the current staff at the helm.

“Firstly. it underlines the fragility of the recovery. Even though this particular store was profitable, these workers are still losing their jobs.

“Secondly, isn’t this a perfect example of how big business and the 1% treat their workers – the very people who make them their profits?

“Can we really continue to afford a system that operates this way? In my opinion, ’tis the season to be a Socialist,” he said.

FASTNews

Conviction for repeat offender A DRUG addict used an Airsoft pistol to hold up a dry cleaners which he had earlier used to get alterations done.

The shop staff recognised John Joyce (25), of St Bridget’s Lawn, Porterstown Road, Clonsilla, during the raid in which he used the imitation firearm to threaten her into handing over €436.

Joyce pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery of Margens Drozdziak at PressXxpress, Clonsilla on 2 November 2015.

He also pleaded guilty to robbery of Darragh Power at Snugborough Road, on August 21, 2014.

Judge Terence O’Sullivan imposed a total sentence of six years but suspended the last 18 months.

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

All the girls have a good hair day!

FASTNews

Motocross at Pride of Place VOLUNTEERS of Mulhuddart Motocross (MMC) were delighted to represent their club and community at the annual Pride of Place awards, also known as the Community Oscars.

This special gala event was held in Waterfront Hall, Belfast in front of an audience of approximately 1,000 guests and VIPs with many more people tuning in on-line to watch the live broadcast of the ceremony.

MMC’s collaborative approach involves Fingal County Council, Safer Blanchardstown, Local Residents and supporters which was and remains a key factor in the success of the motocross track and club.

Fingal and the 1916 Rising THE story of Fingal’s involvement in the 1916 Easter Rising is now on film and was premiered recently in the Draiocht, Blanchardstown. The film was created and produced

by Tile Media and was co-sponsored by Fingal County Council as part of its 1916 Commemoration Programme.

Fingal’s Finest is the story of the Fifth Battalion, Dublin Brigade of Irish Volunteers, and their role in the 1916 Rising.

The narrative for the film is largely driven by the witness statements of those involved, including Irish Volunteers Joseph Lawless (Cal Kenealy) and Richard Mulcahy (Andrew Macklin), Cumann na mBan scout Molly Adrien (Natasha Duffy), and officers William O’Connell (Eoin O’Sullivan) and Eugene Bratton (Tim Casey) of the Royal Irish Constabulary, who act as ‘avatars’ as the events of Easter Week, 1916, unfold.

ACTRESS and author Amy Huberman was joined by students from Colaiste Pobail Setanta in Clonsilla who are performing the musical Hairspray.

Amy is part of the judging panel for the 2017 Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards and is calling on students in Dublin with an interest in the dramatic arts to take part in this year’s awards.

This is the fourth year of the highly successful Awards which are open to primary and secondary school students around Ireland.

The Awards have attracted entries from over 1,000 schools across the country since 2013 and the highlight of the year sees shortlisted schools travel from across the country to attend the annual awards ceremony at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre in May. The deadline for entries in all production categories is 27 January 2017.

To enter the awards visit bgesta.ie.

Pictured with Amy are Laurryn McLeod, Lynn Maxon, Holly Brennan McLoughlin, Winner Roland and Dami Ahmed.

Photo:Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

BLANCH | MAJOR HUB OF TECHNOLOGY

Tidings of joy with 100 new local jobs  IAN BEGLEY BLANCHARDSTOWN will benefit from 100 new jobs following the completion of a 60,000 square foot expansion of West Pharmaceutical Services.

The expansion in Damastown Industrial Estate was the result of a large customer demand for medical device manufacturing, particularly in the area of diabetes.

The 100 extra staff will be taken on over the next five years.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Varadkar said: “I’m delighted to see these secure and wellpaid jobs being created in the area. It’s further evidence that our economy continues to grow and the labour force continues to expand, notwithstanding the uncertainties of the world at present. It also

underlines the greater Blanchardstown area as a major hub for technology, pharmaceutical and inward investment.

“However, the Government won’t be complacent and we will continue to foster a pro-business environment by providing better infrastructure, ser vicing more land, keeping taxes low, providing our people with the skills and education they need to secure good employment, and making sure that Ireland remains at the heart of Europe and open to the world,” he said.

West Pharma is a leading manufacturer of packaging components and deliver y systems for injectable drugs and healthcare products.

The company is headquar tered in Exton, Pennsylvania and sup-

ports its customers from locations in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at West, Karen Flynn said: “As the healthcare market becomes increasingly complex, West is advancing our core competencies in the development, manufacturing and final packaging of complex drug delivery systems and diagnostic devices for our customers.”

“We are excited about the growth and expansion we are experiencing in both our contract manufacturing business in Dublin as well as our proprietar y products business in Waterford, both of which will support increasing demand from our global customer base.”

10 GAZETTE 8 December 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| A MOVIE FULL OF MAGIC AND INTRIGUING IMAGINATION

Brighdin Colper and Catherine Cullen

Lara McDermott

Ace magician Paul Redmond sets the night on fire. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Martha McKenham

Norah Casey

Beauties descend to find the beasts T

HERE was a fantastic atmosphere at the recent Irish premiere of Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them, which was officially unveiled at Dublin’s Savoy Theatre. A host of stars lined out for the latest (sort of) installment from the much-loved Harry Potter series, with well-known faces showing up to see it first. Even Harry Potter star Devon Murray attended the red-carpet premiere, looking dapper in a grey suit. There was a great range of different age groups present and all seemed to enjoy the movie.

Kate Hughes, Emma Gray and Lisa Corr

Triona McCarthy

Devon Murray and Jenny Moore

Alfie Mc Grehan

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 8 December 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS OPINION | 2017 COULD SEE INITIATIVES START TO HELP DUBLINERS

Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister Simon Hamilton with Tony McAleenan, finance firector of RMS Group Services

Boost for Dublin as Belfast cash management firm is set to deliver 20 jobs here A BELFAST firm is to create 20 jobs in Dublin.

RMS Group Services is creating 300 new jobs over the next five years – 20 of which will be based in Dublin.

RMS is one of the UK and Ireland’s largest independent providers of bespoke cash management.

Established in 2005, its services include cash and

valuables in transit, cash processing, coin and note supply, foreign exchange and ATM services.

Tony McAleenan, finance director, said: “We’ve grown the business steadily over the past 11 years, solidifying our position in Northern Ireland whilst breaking into new markets, particularly Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.”

LASTThursday morning the Mansion House was taken over by students of UCD’s Marketing Smurfit Business School for the bi-annual UCD Business Breakfast, sponsored by Electric Ireland.

Students of the Smurfit Marketing Development Practice Masters course were joined by thought leaders in health and wellness within Irish business.

The theme of the breakfast was, T he Impact of Health and Wellness on Irish Business.

The panel consisted of Niall McGrath, cofounder of Fulfill Nutrition; Dave and Steve Fly nn, founders of Happy Pear; and Aideen

O’Colmain, Corporate Wellness Director at Fitbit.

The theme was discussed from the perspective of their own businesses while also addressing health trends surrounding local and global business in 2017.

Speaking at the event, Steve Flynn discussed the difficulties of starting a health movement and business alike: “It was difficult to start a revolution – we opened a juice bar to get young people involved, and then saw them in the chipper that night.

“It’s all about your perspective and perseverance. They say it takes 10 years to become an overnight success – for us, it took 13.”

With construction cranes popping up again all across the city, Dublin’s housing needs – and the related costs of same, whether for renters or buyers alike – dominate thoughts. Next year could see the city’s need for a more accessible market begin to be achieved, writes Michael Russell.

Taking some steps to tame Bi-annual UCD breakfast Dublin’s property market focuses on health, wellness THE old chestnut of demand exceeding supply is still the hot topic in Dublin this year as we saw activity in the housing market increase steadily.

As a result, prices have increased in the capital by over 6% while doubledigit growth was recorded in the country.

T here is hope for 2017 that initiatives will improve matters, such as: • Help to buy scheme • Central Bank’s modification on the banks’ lending rules • The Government’s Action Plan for housing and homelessness • NAMA’s phased releasing of sites to developers for construction The Help to Buy scheme

introduced - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In Dublin, the in the recent rental budget will market has assist firstbecome a time buyers huge topic to afford for discusto buy new homes in ---------------------------------------------------------- s i o n a s rents soar Dublin, especially as up to now had also allowed individu- while landlords exit the they have had to produce als who do not (now) own market as the incentives such a large deposit for a a home – ie people who to stay continue to diminproperty in the capital (an have since sold properties ish – albeit there has been average 15% of the pur- they owned in the past – some very modest movechase price). the same terms as those ments in the recent Budget The Central Bank’s now applying to first-time (5% increase on tax-relief modification on lend- buyers. limit) which may go some ing rules for banks has T he Government’s way to retaining the curallowed first-time buyers Action Plan is an attempt rent landlord base.

The fast-tracking of to borrow 90% (based on to improve all areas in the income rules) of the pur- property sector, such as planning permission for chase price on any prop- rental, construction and large developments is one erty, removing the cap social housing. measure that should assist originally introduced in It recognises the need in helping demand catch 2015. to tackle all sectors of the up with supply in 2017, but However, we would property market to enable we have a long way to go have been considerably ongoing improvements as our population continues to increase each year. happier if the Government overall.

‘In Dublin, the rental market has become a huge topic as rents soar while landlords exit the market as the incentives to stay diminish’

All the elements for a thriving property market are in place as the economy continues to grow with high employment and consumer confidence increasing.

Hopefully, the banks who are becoming more competitive can start to lend more and help to match the needs of Dublin property buyers.

 MICHAEL RUSSELL Director, Full Circle Financial Services Limited E: Michael@fcfinancial.ie www.fcfinancial.ie

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 8 December 2016

MOTORING P20 TRAVEL P22

DUBLINLIFE



GAZETTE

STYLE P18

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of all the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

TRIGGER IS AIMING TO FIND HIS NEW HOME

OUR Dog of the Week looking for his #SpecialSomeone* is Trigger, a tri-pawed three-year-old male Collie cross.

He loves an active life and doesn’t let the fact he only has three legs stop him from living life to the max. Being a typical clever Collie, he always enjoys new challenges, loves the company of other dogs, and would make a great addition to a family who already have a dog.

He is a sweet and loving, active doggie seeking an active family.

Finding a wonderful new home and starting life over again is so important to Trigger, and to us.

If you can be Trigger’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.

MUSIC: SOUL’S RISING STAR TALKS TO THE GAZETTE ABOUT NEW ALBUM NON-FICTION WIN: A signed copy of Brian Deady’s new album Non-Fiction AND a pair of tickets to see him play at the New Year’s Festival in St Stephen’s Green

Deady does it the hard way  MIRIAM DOONA

BRIAN Deady is looking to top off a fantastic year by helping Dubliners ring in the new one on December the 31st.

The up-and-coming soul man, who was recently snapped up by Decca Records, has been making the music industry sit up and take notice with the re-release of his second album, Non-Fiction, last month.

And in three weeks he’ll rub shoulders with Walking On Cars, The Blizzards and Little Hours for a massive live show from the iconic setting of St Stephen’s Green for this year’s 3Countdown Concert.

The talented song-writer took time out to describe the whirlwind last few months to The Gazette, during which he revealed the inspiration for his unique brand of R&B, one of whom is esteemed US record producer Nile Rodgers.

Rodgers, co-founder of disco legends Chic, has collaborated with everyone

from Lady GaGa, David Bowie, Madonna and Pharrell Williams, so for a lad from West Cork to work with such an influential giant of the industry was a dream.

Brian told The Gazette: “Meeting Nile Rogers was great, it was that extra push when you needed it. He is just sound, he has gone past trying to be cool... he’s genuine, he has no agenda to impress.

“The last few months have been so busy and getting caught up with so many different things and so many choices; which manager to choose, which label.

“So, I have gone through that phase and every now and again, I have to say... ‘Hang on, this is really good…enjoy this’.”

On his dream collaborations, he said: “I’ve only recently been introduced to co-writing. I’ve always wanted to work with someone like Pharrell – I think we have similar influences. It’s cool to see how other people work. I was invited to a songwriter retreat where you’re random-

ly put in a room with two or three other people with a guitar and you write a song.

“The talent there was incredible. Nik Kershaw was there, some of the lads from Deacon Blue, some of the lads from Squeeze, Dave Stewart was there too.”

Non-Fiction has been described as both soulful and substantial, but Brian summed up the album with a very different adjective – sparse.

“It is a revealing album. To get the material, I had to work through my own personal stuff and then the songs became boats, guiding me through it. So it was an interesting period but not an easy one.”

He added: “The tone, in a word, I’d say bare. I wanted it to be a lyrical album and that was the overall plan from the start, to be a lyrical album… to be sparse, without it being too sparse.”

Some words of advice for aspiring singer-songwriters?

“Just stick with it,” he says. “It’s about weathering the storms – it sounds a little cliché but sometimes you have to suffer a bit to be fuelled by that drive of wanting to do it.”

WE have a pair of TICKETS to the 3Countdown Concert at St Stephen’s Green on New Year’s Eve AND a SIGNED copy of Non-Fiction to give away to one lucky reader. See our 12 Days of Christmas competition, which s t a r t s t o d a y, to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize.



8 December 2016 GAZETTE 15

GAZETTE

DIARY

Here come ze Germans which means FUNDERLAND is back!

Visitors to the Santa Experience will be accompanied by elves, reindeer, penguins and polar bears before enjoying an individual meeting with Santa

SANTA EXPERIENCE BACK FOR LOVELY FESTIVE EVENT THE SANTA Experience is back in Dublin and it’s a truly lovely festive family event.

Taking place in Dunnes Stores in the Ilac Centre, visitors will be accompanied by elves, reindeer, penguins and polar bears, and before enjoying an individual meeting with Santa Claus himself.

Each visit includes full engagement with Santa and his elves, as well as every child receiving a gift.

There is also a professional photographer on site to capture the magical moment with Santa for every family.

The Santa Experience supports Temple St Dublin and Mercy Street Cork children’s hospitals, who they also visit each year with Santa and his elves.

Admission is just €10 per child and €3 per adult. Book online at santaexperience.ie.

Dublin beauty Sarah Morrissey sits on the Funderland carousel, which like the Rally Ride (top right) remains a firm favourite for children of all sizes, while the Frisbee (below right) will have the bigger kids and the parents on the edge of their seats...

BEST OF IRISH CREATIVITY COMING TO THE RDS SHOWCASE, Ireland’s international creative expo will take place in the RDS in the new year, showcasing the works of 450 Irish designers to an international market of buyers.

Taking place from January 22 to 25, in the New Year, the trade fair, which was founded by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland 41 years ago, is an international launch pad for the 450 Irish designers, manufacturers and craftspeople who unveil their new season collections across fashion, jewellery, home and giftware.

A particular emphasis is placed on new products to market, providing Irish retailers with opportunities to discover and stock up on the latest design-led products, many of which are unique to the show.

Visit showcaseireland.com for more information.

dublin

g a ze t t e

.com

Alongside the indoor and outdoor attractions at Winter Funderland, iSkate – at 600 square metres – is Ireland’s largest outdoor ice rink.

The outdoor rink, introduced in 2015 proved hugely popular and returns for this year’s event With spectacular lighting, iSkate creates a winter wonderland atmosphere outside the Simmonscourt Pavillion.

For many patrons an hour on the ice rink along with the thrills of the fairground provides a perfect family day out.

With a Pay-As-You-Go per ride option, or the choice of P.O.P. (Pay- One-Price) wristbands allowing hours of unlimited fun, including the family wristband option, Winter Funderland is a wonderful family day out this Christmas in Dublin. To be in with a chance to WIN a Family Pass to the grand opening of Winter Funderland on Thursday, December 15, see our 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS competition which kicks off today. These exclusive passes will admit 2 adults + 2 children OR 1 adult + 3 children, and all attractions and rides on the day are FREE of charge. See Page 24 for more details.

www.

DECEMBER sees the return to Winter Funderland of top thrill rides from the continent.

This year the star attraction is sure to be “Around the World,” a swing ride from Germany which at 60 metres stands almost twice the height of the traditional Funderland Ferris Wheel.

With spectacular lighting, the “Around the World” ride is sure to be a big hit at this year’s show.

The “Eclipse,” and “Discovery” are top thrill rides from the Continent, while the much loved “Power Wave” makes a welcome return visit from Holland to Dublin.

The sensational “Speed Loop” Rollercoaster, which was introduced to the RDS b a c k i n 2 014 , i s a t h r i l l seekers favourite and will be joined by the “Take Off”, “Ice Jet” and “Waltzer” to name just a few.

With lots of Kiddie Rides and family attractions where parents can accompany children, Winter Funderland will present a huge array of attractions for all ages.

For those who prefer to remain on “terra firma,” lots of games of skill and chance present the chance to win some of Winter Funderland’s famous giant teddies and soft toys.

All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are just a click away

16 GAZETTE 8 December 2016

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 17

Order in store or online at marksandspencer.ie Last chance to order food for New Year’s Eve 20 December.

Selected stores only. Serving suggestions shown. See online for full terms and conditions. Products and collection times are subject to availability. Orders can only be collected at participating ROI stores. Products containing alcohol can be sold to over 18s only, please drink responsibly. Visit drinkaware.ie. See in store for details. Š Marks and Spencer (IRL) Ltd.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 8 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE

International Wella Platinum Colour award winner Darren Lacken and his model, Jennifer

Colourist’s top award is worth crowing about  EMMA NOLAN

A DUBLIN hairdresser has won the hugely coveted Platinum prize at Wella’s 2016 International TrendVision Award in Barcelona.

Darren Lacken, of Crow Street Collective in Temple Bar, was awarded the top prize of the night and crowned Platinum Colour Award Winner.

Darren’s look interpreted the A/W trend, Bronde Luxe, and his beautiful model, Jennifer, captivat-ed the eye of the judges.

He showcased the quality of hairdressing in Ireland to be amongst the best in the world, leading the way with exceptional colour creativity and flair.

Speaking about his win, Darren said: “It is

a huge honour for me as the Wella Professionals TrendVision Award is widely respected so I am thrilled to have won the Platinum prize.

“There was strong competition from amazing hairdressers across the world, so it’s a fantastic achievement and I’m really delighted to be part of it.”

Lead judge Josh Wood praised the Platinum winner, saying: “Every year, I’m totally amazed by the quality, but this year all these people are winners.

“Darren showcased an incredible use of the Wella colour portfolio and an understanding of strong technique. All of that technical knowledge was blended into something that I thought was really beautiful.”

Arnotts’ excitement at Charlotte Tillbury lines MAKE-UP lovers rejoice – Charlotte Tillbury has arrived at Arnotts. Known for some cult products, Charlotte is now bringing her make-up revolution to Arnotts. She said: “Dublin is a make-up mecca and the women here really understand the power of make-up, so it’s incredibly exciting for me to launch my first Arnott’s counter.”

Donald McDonald, managing director of Arnotts, said: “We are delighted to welcome Charlotte Tilbury into the beauty hall at Arnotts.

Charlotte has been at the forefront of the makeup industry for over 20 years and we are looking forward to having such an exciting brand join our beauty offer.

“Our ambition at Arnotts is to continue to deliver exceptional service and quality products, and to cre-ate new and exciting experiences for existing and new customers.”

Tabea Weyrauch and Yomiko Chen wearing looks from Irish designers, Jill De Burca, Helen Steele and Manley

SITE SET ON SHOWCASING IRISH DESIGNERS  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

THE Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) has launched DesignIreland.ie – a new web platform dedicated to showcasing the work of Ireland’s leading designers and craftspeople.

The site aims to provide consumers the world over with inspiration, images and stories about

talented Irish designers and their work.

Visitors can browse Irish products across three categories – Home & Gift, Fashion & Accessories and Jewellery – and then link directly to purchase from maker websites or approved stockists such as Arnotts, the Kilkenny Group, Brown Thomas, Irish Design Shop, Makers & Brothers and Stonechat, as well as interna-

tional retailers including Heal’s, The New Craftsmen and Wolf & Badger in the UK, The Citizenry in the US, and Stor in Tokyo.

Karen Hennessy, chief executive of DCCoI, said: “This new site forms part of DCCoI’s strategic goal to increase awareness of Irish design and craft at home and abroad, capitalising on the growing international reputation of the sector in recent years.

“Design Ireland has been developed as a premium brand to celebrate and champion the wonderful contemporary work being produced all over the island of Ireland.

“We hope consumers will be inspired to seek out and purchase unique Irish-designed and made work throughout the year, but particularly over the coming weeks as they shop for gifts this Christmas.”

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 19

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STYLE Red sequins dress with choker €89.90

Champagne sequin dress €89.90

Black & Pink Floral sequins dress €69.90

Red knee-length lace dress €59.90

Julian Boutique is a hidden treasure JULIAN BOUTIQUE, Cookstown, is a new, stylish boutique with dresses for all occasions, offering truly unexpected elegance and beauty in the midst of an industrial estate.

Since opening in May, the boutique has been fulfilling a lifelong dream for its owners, Donna Mills and Oonagh Doyle, while manager Aislin Maxwell is bringing her industry experience from working with top suppliers in London and Paris to bear on the business.

Aislin’s fashion experience applies across the board, with the boutique’s superb range covering a full range of party, debs,

bridesmaids and cocktail dresses, and catering for sizes from 6 to 26.

Julian Boutique offers a warm ambiance to all, with both the courteous staff and the boutique’s layout impressing. There’s an air of a grande ballroom about the premises, with the spacious fitting rooms offering comfort that’s just a dress away.

Located just five minutes off the M50 (Tallaght), Julian Boutique is a must-see for anyone wanting to find their perfect dress. Located at Unit A13, Second Avenue, Cookstown Industrial Estate, the boutique can be contacted at 01 451 3950.

Peach lace knee-length dress €59.90

Deep teal long dress €149.90

Rose gold and black bodysuit €44.90

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DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Major car companies have combined their efforts to create a more effective electric car charging network of stations across Europe for faster and more efficient charging

Electric car charging network to get a boost BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen Group with Audi and Porsche have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create the highest-powered electric car charging network in Europe. The car companies intend to make substantial investments to create the network, underscoring each company’s belief in the future of electric mobility.

The goal is the quick build-up of a sizable number of electric charging stations across Europe in order to enable long-range travel for battery electric vehicle drivers. Their combined belief is that this will be an important step towards facilitating massmarket electric vehicle adoption.

The projected ultra-fast high-powered charging network with power levels up to 350kW will be significantly faster than the most powerful charging system deployed today. The build-up is planned to start in 2017. An initial target of about 400 sites in Europe is planned.

By 2020 the customers should have access to thousands of high-powered charging points. The goal is to enable long-distance travel through opennetwork charging stations along highways and major thoroughfares, which has not been feasible for most electric car drivers to date. The charging

Crossing over comfortably with Peugeot’s 2008

During 2016 Peugeot started a more serious foray into the crossover market.

Here, MICHAEL MORONEY reports on his test drive of the new 2008 which has started a trend – and you can expect to see more in terms of SUV dynamics from Peugeot in 2017.

THE crossover is the new motoring term to describe a car that can be as comfortable and agile on the road as it is in moderate off-road conditions. Car companies are selling the concept as one that fits with people’s active outdoor lifestyles and isn’t being outdoor, healthy and active something that we all aspire to.

The fact that Peugeot does off-road is surprising for many car buyers and up until I took the new Peugeot 2008 it was a claim that I was also a little sceptical about.

This compact estate car is not a heavy-duty offroad vehicle although it is surprising how effec-

tive it can be in muddy North Dublin stubble fields. Peugeot has developed what is called a Grip Control system to allow their cars to have enough extra traction on the front wheels to cope with difficult driving conditions.

Take a car to the Ploughing and you will test those conditions.

North county Dublin is the home of potato growing and I took the car across some potato fields and into some greening stubbles to check its offroad credentials. I was well impressed with the small car’s ability to travel across ground, coping with ruts and soft spots

that would be suspect for a normal car.

T his small crosso ver SUV comes with unique ability to make it a worthwhile car option for those who want to explore beyond the tarmac. It’s compact and tidy on the road, gives good confidence to tackle the muddy road conditions and modest field ruts with some degree of surety.

The 2008 is one of Peugeot’s best sellers. I’ve driven both the thrifty 1.2 litre turbo-petrol version and the diesel version powered by a 1.6 litre HDi engine. Engine the performance is good across both models, with

experience is expected to evolve to be as convenient as refuelling at conventional petrol and diesel stations.

PSA has pick-up plans for 2018 IT seems that almost every car maker has plans to offer a 4x4 pick-up as the market keeps growing for these versatile vehicle, especially in developing countries. The French PSA Group with owns the Citroen and Peugeot brands has announced that it plans to start building a pick-up in mid-2018 in North Africa to meet demand in the Tunisian market. PSA said the factory will build 1,200 Peugeot branded vehicles annually.

It is believed that PSA may use the Toyota Hilux pick-up for its model in a similar way that Nissan, Renault and soon Mercedes Benz are sharing pick-up technology. Toyota and PSA already co-operate to build vans.

The new Peugeot 2008 GT is powered by an impressive 110bhp three-cylinder 1.2 litre petrol engine that’s powerful and very smooth to drive

Peugeot 2008 SUV 1.2 PureTech

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 1.2 litre Engine power 110hp 0 – 100km/hr 10.3 seconds Economy 20.8km/litre (4.8l/100km or 59mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 50 litres CO2 emissions 110g/km Road Tax Band C €190 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2013) Warranty 5 years Entry Price €19,400

Peugeot has a new i-Cockpit dash design that’s both modern and function without dashboard clutter.

the diesel version being modestly more economical while the petrol powered car is lively and only modestly more expensive to run.

For me the 1.2 litre turbo-petrol version has so much to offer both in terms of keener pricing and a great driving feel.

The slightly more expensive diesel version has better torque and that can be called upon of the going gets sticky.

The top of the range diesel version is rated at 120bhp versus 110bhp for the 1.2 petrol, and it comes with significantly more torque. Despite that its towing rating is not much better. There is a significant up to 30% advantage in terms of

fuel economy when you take the diesel option. So while the petrol version that I drove is a very lively and smooth car to drive with its award-winning engine, the diesel version makes more sense in terms of running costs, even if it is priced a little higher.

Peugeot has a new GT line for the 2008, adding a higher level of style and fittings and giving the car a stronger more off-road look. The test car was fitted with a six-speed automatic gearbox that was easy to use and worked well with the Grip Control system when called into duty.

The 1.2 litre turbo-petrol version takes the form of an award winning

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Audi A5 and Q2 receive Euro NCAP five star safety awards

The upgraded Peugeot 2008 with GT styling has impressive off-road ability using the Peugeot Grip Control system. The entry price for the 2008 is €19,400 and if you want the GT pack you need to go to €24,800.

THE new Audi A5 and Q2 have each been awarded top grades in the Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) test. The cars scored highly in the both the adult and child safety ratings, as well as for pedestrian protection and other safety systems.

Emergency braking systems were introduced to the evaluation procedure in 2016. As standard, the Audi Q2 is equipped with an emergency braking assistant as part of Audi pre sense front. The system looks out for other vehicles or pedestrians in the path of the vehicle and if a collision is eminent, it warns the driver and if necessary initiates automatic emergency braking.

The new Audi A5 Coupé and A5 Sportback models were also awarded the top grade of five stars. Both models offer high levels of safety for adults and children, as well as good pedestrian protection.

The standard Audi pre-sense city helps the A5 Coupé and A5 Sportback to avoid accidents. At

three-cylinder engine.

These engines are rarely as smooth in terms of acceleration as this Peugeot engine is and the three-cylinder feel is normally very noticeable from behind the wheel.

This is the best three-cylinder petrol engine that I have driven and it adds to the driving enjoyment of the car when it’s matched with the automatic gearbox.

Petrol running costs can be more significant than diesel ones, especially for the higher use driver. The GT version test car that I drove delivered an impressive fuel economy rating of 20.8km/litre (4.8l/100km or 59mpg) over a 1,100km lengthy driving experi-

ence. The CO2 emission level is low at 110g/km (road tax €190) for the automatic petrol version, just €10/year more expensive than the diesel model.

The use of the Grip Control system in the fields probably added to my fuel usage. The system is controlled by a dial located on the centre console. It allows you to choose from five driving modes. These are standard ESP, Snow Mode, Mud Mode, Sand Mode and ESP off mode.

Most of my driving was in standard mode and I switched on the move to Mud Mode once I crossed into field conditions. There was no clunk of a gear, just a new image

on the dash to tell me that I was in Mud Mode and confidence to tackle the soft field conditions.

The system doesn’t add to the car’s towing ability, it is designed more to boost traction in poor ground conditions. Peugeot claims that it uses electronic components rather than mechanical systems that are already installed in the car. The Goodyear 205/50R17 Vector 4Seasons tyres added no extra weight so there is no excessive fuel consumption, unlike a traditional 4x4’s.

The GT version of the 2008 is also more attractive to look at but more expensive to buy than the base model. The addi-

tional GT features make it look more like an SUV taking away any notion of a softer car look.

The dash design is new with Peugeot’s i-Cockpit design and that included sat-nav on the test car. There is the option to plug in your phone and run Google Maps through the system that operates by touch control and very easy to get a handle on.

The steering wheel is small and sporty in design, with a good level of control. There is good seat and wheel adjustment but you need to get it right in order to see all of the dials clearly.

This crossover is considered compact so don’t expect a big car feel to the

2008 even its ambitious in its off-road ability. The front driver space is good while the seat base may be a bit on the short side for larger adults.

Seat adjustment is good and the rear seats fold easily to give more load space. The boot opens high for clearance and there’s a proper space wheel included.

The entry price for the face-lifted Peugeot 2008 is €19,400 for the base 1.2 litre petrol engine model, while the test car with its GT badging and automatic gearbox pushed that price to €24,835.

The diesel GT version, while not available with the automatic gearbox is marginally more expensive.

speeds of up to 85 km/h, the system scans the road for other vehicles and pedestrians using a windshield-mounted front camera with a range of over 100 metres. If it detects an impending collision, the driver receives a series of warnings, and if necessary the car initiates maximum braking. At speeds up to 40 km/h, Audi claims that accidents can be avoided completely within the system limits. At higher speeds (up to 85 km/h); warnings and brake intervention reduce the impact velocity.

The Audi A5 also features an extensive range of other assistance systems, like collision avoidance assist or turn assist. While collision avoidance assist helps the driver to drive around an obstacle, turn assist monitors oncoming traffic when turning across the flow of traffic at low speed. In a dangerous situation, it brakes the vehicle to a complete stop, if necessary, to prevent a turn when there is oncoming traffic.

The Euro NCAP has been investigating the crash performance of new car models since it was established in 1997. In order to simulate real-life accident conditions better, the consortium continually tightens crash safety requirements.

Welcome for insurance report reform THERE has been welcome in some quarter for the publication of the report on the rising cost of motor insurance by the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform.

Car hire firm Enterprise Rent-A-Car Ireland has said that it fully support the Committee’s call for more transparency in the insurance sector. George O’Connor, MD of Enterprise Rent-A-Car Ireland said that they also broadly support the many individual recommendations put forward as a means of reforming the

motor insurance sector. He believes that the rising cost of insurance is already beginning to impact on Ireland’s tourist sector, of which car rental is an integral element.

“We particularly support recommendation 32, says George and he quotes, “The Committee recommends that personal injury awards be benchmarked internationally and indexed against EU average awards. Such a process would require the cost of healthcare and other Irish specific factors to be taken

into account.”

He believes that this measure, if implemented in tandem with other recommendations, would address the fundamental problems in the claims/awards system: - Too much money in the insurance claims system - Insufficient scrutiny of claims - A claims process that is too expensive and lacking certainty

The new Audi A5 and Q2 have each come out with a top crash safety rating in the recent Euro NCAP crash testing programme.

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DUBLINLIFE fast

TRAVEL

TRAVEL Discover Donegal too!

Donegal now cooler than Peru – fact!  SHANE DILLON

LOOKS like my home county will soon be famous for other things than Wee Daniel, truly terrible WiFi and ‘Fundoran’ – National Geographic Traveller (UK) has just picked Donegal as number-one on The Cool List: 17 For 2017.

Described by the magazine as “off-radar and hard to access”, the county nevertheless scooped top place on the annual list thanks in part to its “world-class wilderness”, pushing it – and Ireland – ahead of must-see places such as Peru, Greenland and South Africa.

With a growing international awareness of superb Wild Atlantic Way spots along Donegal’s coast, and tourism numbers rising there, it’s another welcome accolade for the ruggedly beautiful county.

Low-cost US flights are go THE dream of low-cost flights to America taxied a little closer a few days ago with the granting of a US-Ireland licence to Norwegian Air International. The low-cost airline can now offer Cork-Boston flights a few times each week from next Summer, with hopes that it will eventually expand its service to include flights to New York.

Offering frequent and first-time London visitors something a little different, Christmas markets and lights present a seasonal twist on familiar sights. Pictures: Shane Dillon

BRITAIN: BUSTLING CITY HAS PLENTY OF CHRISTMAS FARE TO BUY AND BROWSE

Yule find plenty of treats when shopping in London

 SHANE DILLON

IT’S not too late to get your Christmas shopping in, and to browse some special seasonal markets – I don’t mean here, but in London!

Britain’s Brexit worries haven’t quite brought about the favourable currency rates many shoppers and tourists have been hoping for, but it’s still pretty possible to get the Christmas parity going with Sterling, as there are definitely bargains to bag ‘next door’ for any shoppers visiting the bustling city.

Just as here in Dublin, London retailers are welcoming throngs of shoppers through the doors at present, with upmarket shopping hub Regent

Street proving as crowded as Grafton Street on any Christmas Eve during my recent visit there.

From the iconic street to all of London’s main shopping areas, retailers have definitely pulled out all the stops to entice people through the doors this December, with many of the biggest High Street retailers who’ve been spooked by Brexit uncertainties doing their best to try and compensate with a bumper Christmas.

However, for those looking to take a lighter approach to shopping, while still staying in the festive spirit, there are lots of Christmas markets to be explored, too – markets which are easier on the pocket, but none the poorer for it.

Two of the most popular Christmas markets are also among the easiest to reach, with the park at bustling Leicester Square transformed into a winter wonderland, while a much larger market can be found along Embankment, with rows of chalet-style wooden huts presenting presents for all tastes and budgets, and set within easy reach of the London Eye. Such markets offer more than enough Christmas-themed gifts – as well as global cuisines and seasonal food – to sate any appetite, providing a more budget-friendly way to pick up a cute, cool or quirky Christmas gift to remember your London visit.

All that shopping and

Explore new art at Tate Modern’s impressive extension

browsing can prove tiring work, so why not give those aching feet a rest with a visit to The Savoy hotel, a stroll away from Trafalgar Square? Swap the mulled wine for an actual wine, tea or other refreshment in a landmark setting.

Unlike similar ‘six-star’ hotels and watering holes, The Savoy is perfectly accommodating to ‘walk-

ins’, and while drinks at its American Bar are pricey (your wine will set you back at least about £10 or £12, for example), you’ll be made to feel just as welcome as any of the hotel’s well-heeled guests.

If you’ve had a busy time taking in the Christmas shopping, or meandering the markets, there should be enough time to take in the sights. Culture

vultures should wing it to Tate modern, and its massive Switch House extension that finally opened a few months ago.

The imposing structure will give you a great way to have a break and brush up on modern art developments, while less highbrow ‘attractions’ at the gallery include peering into the luxury apartment buildings alongside, and the goldfish therein.

Ultimately, whether looking to visit England’s bustling capital as a simple weekend getaway or a pre-Christmas shopping treat, you’ll find plenty to keep you going, whether that’s from shop to shop or attraction to attraction.

Either way, season’s greetings, and happy shopping!

8 December 2016 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS Grilled Halloumi burger with sweet chilli ketchup and tahini mayonnaise The World of the Happy Pear by Stephen and David Flynn recently won the Avonmore Cookbook of the Year at this year’s Bord Gais Energy Irish Book Awards. Here’s a delicious recipe for a fantastic burger.

INGREDIENTS: SERVES 2 to 4 1 courgette 1 aubergine 1 red pepper 5 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 x 200g pack of halloumi cheese 4 burger buns or wholemeal pittas homemade ketchup homemade Happy Pear mayo 50g rocket or similar greens

METHOD: Start by preparing your veg. Cut the courgette in half and then into thin strips lengthwise.

Slice the aubergines lengthwise into thin strips.

Chop the pepper vertically into four large sections, discarding the core with the seeds.

Chop the halloumi into four thin rectangular slices.

Put the cut veg into a large bowl with 4 tablespoons of the oil and the salt.

Mix until they all have a nice even coating.

Start to grill the prepared veg on a hot barbecue, turning regularly – you want them nicely charred but also soft and tender.

Remove your cooked veg from the grill and

set aside while you cook the halloumi – it will cook very quickly!

Put it on the barbie until it has nice grill marks on each side, about five minutes.

Toast the buns on the barbecue, then layer them up with some homemade ketchup on the bottom bun, Happy Pear mayo on the top bun, grilled courgettes, aubergine, halloumi, roasted peppers and some rocket in between.

A l t e r n a t i ve l y y o u can spread the inside of your toasted pitta pocket with ketchup and mayo on either side and fill with your h a l l o u m i , ve g a n d greens.

Take the first bite . . . epic, and oh so tasty!

DUBLIN’S first ever BYOC (Bring your own cocktail) bar is up and running on Francis Street.

Drop Dead Twice allows customers to bring a shoulder of their favourite spirit, and one of the award-winning Drop Dead mixologists will match it with some homemade mixers of their own.

Located upstairs in the Tivoli Backstage, the Drop Dead Twice bartenders use quality ingredients, from fresh herbs to homemade mixers and real fruit purees, to create bespoke cocktails, which complement each guest’s taste preference.

To book their two-hour slot, guests reserve a table online, pay a small entry fee of €20 on arrival, and then put their wallet away. It won’t be needed for the rest of the night!

Inspired by the BYOC model in London and New York, four friends combined to bring this original concept to Dublin. Together they have a shared vision of encouraging Irish cocktail lovers to step out of their comfort zone and get experimental with new flavours and concoctions.

Situated in the heart of Dublin, ‘Upstairs’ @ The Tivoli Backstage, Dublin 8, Drop Dead Twice is open every week from Thursday to Saturdays from 5pm and on Sunday’s for Afternoon Tea. Visit dropdeadtwice.com to book.

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

GAZETTE

CINEMA DUBLINLIFE Disney heroine to make waves

EVER since 2010’s Tangled, the creative minds at Walt Disney Animation Studios have surfed a wave of charming nostalgia and knowing nods to the past – a strategy that’s worked extremely well for them and elevated some of the studio’s subsequent efforts even above the recent output of the mighty Pixar.

While Monoa (Cert PG, 113 mins) carefully follows the familiar Disney beats, it does so with a wonderfully original visual aesthetic and a selfreferential script that frequently winks and nods to seasoned Disney fans, without alienating younger spectators.

Consequently, Moana builds on a tradition established by Disney decades

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

ago, but – more so than Frozen, and Tangled – pushes that tradition forward with a thoroughly modern, empowering storyline.

Newcomer Auli’I Cravalho plays the latest Disney princess; the daughter of the chief of a Polynesian tribe who, like many of her House-of-Mouse predecessors, dreams of nothing but escaping her home life and proving herself in the world.

Chosen by the ocean

itself to deliver a mystical stone to its owner, the goddess Te Fiti, Moana defies her father and sets out on the open sea, with the help of the once-powerful demi-god Maui (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson).

The mythical background that Moana’s adventure is built on is occasionally convoluted and, without a real significant villain, the overall narrative threat is perhaps a little vague.

Regardless, Moana isn’t really about that threat. Its central themes – destiny, choice and tradition – are familiar Disney subjects, but in Moana’s Polynesian context, the results are more progressive and empowering than anything Disney has done before.

Disney’s Moana presents a very likeable lead, with its courageous character Moana

However, it is not just the cultural context that gives Moana its strength.

Moana is the hero here, not the damsel – and especially not “the princess”.

Many modern Disney movies have pushed things forward with strong female leads; Moana is the first to rigidly comment on it, with tongue firmly in cheek.

Dismissing her ability to

carry out the quest, Maui mocks Moana: “If you wear a dress and have an animal sidekick, you are a princess.” With little nods like this, Moana constantly pokes fun at a legacy of Disney heroines that operate as little more than damsels in distress.

Moana is quick to prove Maui wrong at every turn, and only steps aside to let

him to some butt-kicking when she herself has successfully given him the strength to do so.

Of course, any Disney classic can only be a good as its songs, and Moana succeeds in that area more so than any Disney movie since the early 90s – the music here, from Hamilton songwriter LinManuel Miranda, is rife

with rampant nostalgia, running the gamut from catchy to impassioned and back again.

Visually, Moana is unlike anything Disney had done before, maintaining a vibrant, expressive colour-palette packed with natural neon pinks, greens and blues – every frame is bursting with life.

One dynamic sequence in a realm beneath the ocean has Disney’s creature workshop on creative overload; another big chase scene takes visual notes from Mad Max: Fury Road. Despite a tendency to crawl along, Moana is a compelling, progressive, original and often-hilarious movie that will hopefully establish a legacy to rival Frozen.

Verdict: 8/10

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

From docks stinking of fish under the midday sun to dark alleys strung with washing lines of drying clothes, Dishonored 2’s downbeat cities provide great levels to explore. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

DISHONORED 2: EXCELLENT SEQUEL OFFERS A COMPELLING WORLD

Streets ahead of its stealth game rivals WHAT if a young Queen Victoria had to flee a violent coup, hiding out in Rhodesia whilst attempting to retake the throne by eliminating her enemies from the shadows using stealth, planning and guile, or by charging about as a sword-swinging, bomb-chucking queen?

That’s not quite the plot of Dishonored 2 (Cert 18, c. €60, PC/PS4/XBO), but it’s a pretty damn close parallel to this sequel to one of 2012’s best games, which has proven to be a late gaming highlight of the year.

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

Largely set in a decrepit southern sun-kissed city, the game tasks you with taking charge of young empress, Emily – or as her father-protector, Corvo, the protagonist of the first game – and then working to reclaim the throne from an usurping aunt.

Ireland isn’t exactly overflowing with Royalists, but it’s hard not to root for this vengeful Victorian (a disclaimer: the developers, Arkane Studios, studied the world of 1851 for much of the game’s lush looks and linguistic lore, so that’s Victorian enough for me).

Both potential protagonists have wildly different powers and abilities to draw upon, giving the option to play through the densely detailed levels how you want to.

You’re free to skulk through the shadows and

dart over the rooftops, or pursue open assault against the goons, lopping off limbs like a maniac monarch – either way, the choice is yours.

Your play style subtly alters the game, as well as the ending, giving you an incentive to replay and take a different style – perhaps less of the Rambo Royal next time, to be more of a mysterious monarch ghosting past the harried henchmen sweating in the sunny streets below.

And what henchmen (see panel below), and

what streets!

The developers have followed an ‘ugly-beautiful’ aesthetic, with the impressive game engine creating a singularly striking world, one that’s full of detail and rich in atmosphere.

Coming out so late in the day, and with the lastminute pre-Christmas big releases, there’s a danger that Dishonored 2 will be overlooked at retail.

However, while there’s a ‘u’ missing in the title, you shouldn’t miss this title if you enjoy challenging, richly realised worlds to explore.

Quirky design fleshes out the world A SPECIAL mention must go to Dishonored 2’s superb art style, which apart from creating intricately designed levels has created very interesting characters.

From wrinkled aristocrats to mumbling ginsoaks to dashing young blades, the spud-nosed, blotchy-skinned, jug-eared and hopelessly lined characters found

throughout tend to be individually odd looking, but collectively they create an interesting cast of characters.

Indeed, there’s something a little charming about them – even though many of them are charmless goons – as they fit right in to their dilapidated cities, further grounding the look and tone of the game.

Aesthetically, they go against

the general grain of trying to create hyper-realistic characters, with their caricatures and lopsided looks having, perhaps, faint echoes of the work of artists such as Francis Bacon and similar unconventional portraitists.

At least you could never accuse Dishonored’s diverse characters of being blandly beautiful or following cookie-cutter designs ...

The game has many secrets to find hidden around its sprawling levels

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28 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

SPORT

FastSport BAREFOOT RUNNING UNDER SDSP SPOTLIGHT: SOUTH Dublin Sports Partnership and IT Tallaght’s next sports science seminar will take place on Monday, December 12 on the topic of Barefoot Running (training footwear and avoiding injury).

The presenter is Joe Warne, Lecturer in the Sports Science course in IT Tallaght.

The seminar will look at the footwear debate and ask can minimalist shoes really improve performance?

Registration will begin at 6.30pm with the seminar due to start at 7pm in lecture hall 001. There will be a Q&A session at the end. Those wishing to register are asked to send their name, organisation, position and mobile number to info@sdcsp.ie.

A recent interest in barefoot running has resulted in the development of a new footwear type, principally running shoes and football boots, which incorporates minimal cushioning and structural properties, in contrast with conventional running shoes/ football boots.

RUGBY: CASTLE AVENUE SIDE RUN UP BONUS POINT WIN IN UBL DIVISION 1A

Tarf teach Students a big lesson

UBL DIVISION 1A Clontarf 33 Dublin University 0  sport@dublingazette.com

CLONTARF put together their most complete performance of the season so far to record a comprehensive 33-0 win over a below-par Dublin University at Castle Avenue.

Very little went right for Trinity on the day as defending champions Tarf made it two victories on the bounce, climbing back into the top half of the table ahead of the Christmas break.

Hooker Bryan Byrne has not played for Leinster since September and he will hope his provin-

cial coaches take note of his performance here.

He had two excellent first half breaks, the second of which led to a 25th minute try for centre Matt D’Arcy which broke the deadlock.

Byrne was also a big part of Tarf’s dominant scrum but they were unable to press that advan-

Clontarf winger Rob Keogh on the attack. Picture: Deryck Vincent

tage home as the first half ended 7-0 in their favour.

Trinity had a missed penalty attempt by out-half James Fennelly and a yellow card for winger Bryan Mollen.

Resolute defending from the students kept them very much in contention, a brilliant move involving D’Arcy and Mick McGrath almost seeing Tarf score on the stroke of half-time before the students covered the danger.

However, the visitors blundered when knocking on straight from the restart and the hosts quickly broke through, feeding winger Rob Keogh for a well-finished five-

pointer wide on the right.

Trinity’s resistance lessened after Michael Brown joined his centre partner D’Arcy on the scoresheet, giving the north Dubliners a 19-point buffer in damp and muddy conditions.

The bonus point try followed when scrum half Peter du Toit outfoxed the cover at a close-in ruck, sniping through in impressive fashion with the students down to 14 men.

The Tarf pack’s scrummaging power earned them a penalty try with Keogh adding his fourth successful conversion, and Brown went close to scoring his second of the

day late on.

This chastening defeat – their third in four games – will linger for Trinity before they get a chance to gain revenge on Andy Wood’s men in the January 28 rematch.

Elsewhere, winger David Brandon helped himself to two tries as Old Belvedere ended a threematch losing streak with a 15-0 home win over St. Mary’s College on Saturday afternoon.

Recent Munster recruit Steve Crosbie kicked the other five points as ‘Belvo moved six points clear of second-from-bottom St Mary’s, ahead of a long winter break in Division 1A action.

Corinthian leave Glenanne seeing red in Senior Cup  sport@dublingazette.com

Corinthian’s Jonny Bruton and Glenanne’s Shane O’Donoghue. Picture: Adrian Boehm

WHITECHURCH club Corinthian produced one of the performances of the second round of the men’s Irish Senior Cup as the Leinster league side eliminated national league team Glenanne last Saturday.

The reds have been flying high in the Leinster league side with six wins from six and they produced a memorable success to go with their run of results.

Jonny Bruton and David Howard had combined for 28 goals already this term and they were

both on the mark to make it 2-0 early in the second half. Bruton netted from a turnover before Howard nailed a drag-flick.

Stu Ronan pulled one back before Stephen Reid put the reds 3-1 up. Two set piece goals from Shane O’Donoghue offered the Glens the reprieve of a penalty shoot-out with a stroke and a corner goal but Corinthian held their nerve to win 4-2 on strokes.

They are one of three regional sides still involved in the competition along with Mossley who eliminated Sandymount’s Railway Union and Cookstown who

knocked out Dublin University.

Of the big guns, Monkstown and Banbridge produced the marquee results. Town scored twice in the first three minutes against Lisnagarvey en route to a 3-2 win in a repeat of last year’s final.

Gareth Watkins and Sam Hyland got Town off to a brilliant start before Garvey fought back via strikes from Neal Glassey and Ryan Getty. But a penalty stroke just before the break proved the defining moment, Stephen Cole converting for a half-time lead and some fine goalkeeping from

Max Maguire meant it stayed that way to the final whistle.

At Havelock Park, Banbridge proved too strong for Three Rock Rovers, eventually breaking down the Dublin side’s dogged defence with goals from Dane Ward, Matthew Bell and Hugh McShane in a 3-1 success.

Harry Morris put Rovers 1-0 up in the 20th minute, turning away from his reverse to score on his open side. Ward equalised by the break for 1-1 with a cool finish from mid-circle after an even opening period and they struck twice in the second half.

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Con and Cuala crackle in brilliant Leinster win LEINSTER SHC FINAL Cuala 3-19 O’Loughlin’s Gaels 1-16  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

CON O’Callaghan starred as Cuala won their first ever Leinster title, beating favourites O’Loughlin Gaels, from Kilkenny, in O’Moore Park on Sunday to end a 37-year drought for Dublin clubs in Leinster.

David Treacy was his usual reliable self from the frees – he scored 0-11, with 0-10 from placed balls – but it was O’Callaghan’s stint up front that stood out, as the dual-code man’s interplay with Colm Cronin proved O’Loughlin’s undoing.

Cuala, though, sparkled throughout.

Much of the damage was done early on. The O’Callaghan-Cronin axis brought about the first goal with the latter finishing a fine O’Callaghan run to establish a lead that was

never to tumble.

Mark Schutte played a key role as Cuala found the net for the second time after 22 minutes with O’Callaghan providing the final touch.

While O’Loughlin’s hung on within reach through a series of frees, Cuala looked by far the more threatening, going in at the break with a 2-8 to 0-9 lead that perhaps should have been more.

Treacy’s frees kept Cuala in charge as the Kilkenny champions enjoyed their best period after the break. They narrowed the gap several times as they found their range, though never came within a score, as they consistently found the Dalkey club able to reestablish a margin, with Treacy showing lethal accuracy from distance.

Indeed, it was Cuala who had the major sights on goal, seeing a couple of dramatic spells of pinball in front of the Gaels’ goal go unconverted.

Danny Loughnane briefly worried Cuala as he struck a goal in the final few minutes, with O’Loughlin’s left with little choice but to go all out and try and drag themselves back into the contest. As Cuala absorbed the late pressure, though, they never looked like slacking, and Mark Schutte’s goal in injury time finally put the tie conclusively to bed.

The 3-19 to 1-16 scoreline didn’t particularly flatter Cuala, who looked as sharp as they have all year and gloried in securing a title they missed out on a defeat to Wexford side Oulart-the-Ballagh this time last year.

There have been no less than 16 Kilkenny club hurling victories in Leinster since Crumlin last brought the title back to Dublin before Christmas in 1979. Dublin sides – including Cuala, twice – had lost seven finals in the same period, four of them to Kilkenny clubs.

Cuala captain Oisin Gough, left, celebrates with David Treacy, centre, and Paul Schutte

Next on the agenda is a February 4 date with Derry’s Slaughtneil in their All-Ireland club semi-final.

And Cuala manager Mattie Kenny said it has been a superb show from the club to bounce back from Leinster final devastation to win the provincial crown.

“Last year was a great journey until the Leinster final,” he said after the final. “We came back this time with the aim of winning the Dublin championship and then to have another crack at Leinster.

Leinster championship.”

David Treacy, meanwhile, hailed the goals that kept Cuala out of range.

“The goals gave us a buffer and we managed to see it out towards the end,” he said.

“We had a five-point lead at the break and then at times had to sit deep to see it out. We knew O’Loughlin’s, like any other Kilkenny team, were going to come at us.

“They did, but we were able to keep tapping over the points. We weren’t forcing goals like we did

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

‘The novelty of getting to the final in 2015 was no longer a novelty. Every game had to be won.’ - Mattie Kenny

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

The novelty of getting to the final in 2015 was no longer a novelty. Every game had to be won and that brought its own pressure.

“To win it was a great relief and a great honour.

It’s a privilege to be with these guys and win the

David Treacy lands a free

in last year’s final against Oulart.”

Looking at the New Year, Cuala will hope they can get O’Callaghan available from the Dublin footballers for their All-Ireland push but, for now, they can revel in this huge achievement for the club.

FASTSport

Oliver and Ellen the Swim Ireland stars of 2016 NAC diver Oliver Dingley and swimmer Ellen Keane have been announced as the Swim Ireland Performance Athletes of the Year following their outstanding achievements at the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Dingley became Ireland’s first diver in 68 years to qualify for an Olympic Games last February.

At the Games, the 23-year-old cruised through the preliminary round of the 3M springboard to advance to the semi-final in 13th place.

He produced another exceptional performance in the semi-final where he finished ninth, to qualify as Ireland’s first ever diving finalist at an Olympic Games.

A lifetime best score in the final then secured him an eighth place finish overall and a spot in the 2017 World Diving Series.

Clontarf’s Keane, competing at her third Paralympic Games, deservedly collects the female Performance Athlete of the Year award following her bronze medal win at the Games. Already a world medallist, Keane collected SB8 100m breaststroke bronze in September, her first Paralympic medal.

Keane was also a finalist in the 100m Backstroke and 100m Butterfly at the Games.

16-year-old Mona McSharry was named junior Performance Athlete of the Year following her performances at the European Junior Swimming Championships in Hungary in July. The Marlins SC swimmer collected silver in the 100m and bronze in the 50m breaststroke at the championships as well as finishing sixth in the final of the 200m event. McSharry had also set Irish junior records in the 100m and 200m breaststroke earlier in the year, collected five titles at the national championships in April and qualified for and competed at the European Senior Championships in May. Dingley’s coach Damian Ball collected the 2016 honour of Performance Coach of the Year.

Ball was instrumental in leading Dingley’s rise through the international ranks this year and is intrinsic in the building and developing of the up and coming divers at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin 15.

The awards were announced at this weekend’s Irish Open Short Course Championships taking place in Lisburn.

GAZETTE

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 December 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: BLANCH SIDE NICK POINT DESPITE SECOND HALF RED CARD

Castleknock Under-11s enjoy 15-goal classic CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-11D1 and 11E sides met in an end of term match with bragging rights at stake.

It turned into a 15-goal festival with both sides in attacking form. Indeed, Patrick O’Reilly broke down the right before shooting home very early on for the opening goal.

Five minutes later, Edward Nuzum was on target soon after being introduced. Next, it was Sean Ogbomo who was wide with his effort. Oisin Dunne had to be alert to save the next effort but he had no chance a couple of minutes later when O’Reilly got his second.

Anthony Cooke was putting in a huge shift, regularly to be found at either end as the game swung from end to end. On one such occasion, he raced back into defence to prevent a certain goal.

Marcus Clinton hit back for the D1 team just before half time to reduce the arrears, leaving it 3-1 at half time.

Ethan Hoey switched from goal stopper to his more usual role up front and duly scored his first. Nuzum got his his second within a minute before the D1 hit back again through Oisin Dunne, and a minute later Romeo Nweke struck his side’s third.

Hoey broke through 12 minutes into the half to score his second but, soon after, Dunne was him by converting from keeper to goalscorer.

It put just one goal in the difference but hat-trick goals from O’Reilly and Hoey stretched out an 8-5 lead. After another exchange of goals, Cooke drilled home from close range to cap a man of the match performance.

Mirav Vaitha again demonstrated his fine touches and, on one occasion, he put through a defence splitting pass that commentators rave about as the E side eventually stretched out an unassailable lead.

Sean Ogbomo was his usual powerful force in the middle, driving forward regularly, and his display was capped with his fine goal.

O’Reilly made a captain’s contribution giving 100 per cent for his team, while Nuzum proved a real dynamo in the midfield.

Verona moved off the bottom with a 1-1 draw at Home Farm

Verona harvest key point LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1 Home Farm 1 Verona 1  sport@dublingazette.com

VERONA held title chasing Home Farm at Whitehall on Friday night to a 1-1 draw in the LSL Sunday Senior 1, lifting them off the bottom of the table.

Both sides tried to play attacking football on a surface that was near perfect.

Verona had the first attempt on goal after eight minutes when Danny Giffney played a short corner to Ian Croft and he struck a shot just wide of the post.

Soon af ter, Dylan Malone crossed to Matthew McEntee and his shot was knocked wide for a corner kick following a high octane opening to the game.

Home Farm, for their part, almost broke the deadlock on 20 minutes when Dean McNevin broke through the Verona defence but Sean Fogarty made an excellent stop with his feet.

As it was, the Dublin 15 club took the lead on 35 minutes when Croft scored from a brilliant free kick from 25 yards, one that flew into the corner of the net.

Verona held on to keep

FOOD DRIVE Castleknock clubs play part in Crosscare push ROBERT Keegan and Shay Doyle from

Crosscare Food Bank, pictured, were in town this week to collect the food donated in the recent food drives by Castleknock Celtic, Castleknock GAA and St Thomas the Apostle Parish in Laurel Lodge.

Following the collection, Crosscare wanted to offer: “a huge thank you for the generosity shown by local people in these food drives which will help feed struggling families at this time in the Dublin 15 area”.

that 1-0 advantage going into the half-time break.

Needing a change in fortunes, Home Farm introduced two substitutes at the start of the second half and immediately put Verona under pressure.

They were rewarded after five minutes when Bradley Hand worked his way to the back line before crossing to McNevin who finished expertly to the net.

McEntee was again unlucky for Verona when he was well set up by Malone but his shot was knocked wide for a corner kick.

Te n m i n u t e s i n t o

the second half, things looked bleak for Verona when they had a player sent off.

Nelson Tiernan, who was listed as a substitute because of an injury, was immediately introduced and in spite of the limitations posed by the inhury, he performed heroics in defence, ably assisted by Philly Fitzpatrick, Alan Kearns and David Colgan.

On the half hour mark, Glen Campbell replaced the injured Giffney, who had worked tirelessly with Stephen Deegan in the middle of the park.

While Home Farm had a lot of possession in the

second half, they failed to trouble Fogarty in the Verona goal who looked confident throughout the game.

Indeed, the best chance of the half fell to Campbell when, following excellent play

by Elmir Habibovic, he failed to finish from a very good position. In the circumstances, it was a good point for Verona from an enjoyable tie.

It lifts the Coolmine club to nine points from their 13 games but they face another tested on Sunday, December 11 when they host league leaders Newbridge Town at 2pm.

8 December 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

MILLAR SHIELD

Brigid’s end almost 50 year wait for title

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S

ST BRIGID’S won the Millar Shield for the

first time since the 1967/68 season with a 2-11 to 2-9 win over Na Fianna in the final at Mobhi Road.

A well-taken goal in the first half from Ciaran O’Reilly saw Brigid’s eke out a 1-4 to 0-6 lead at half-time. Keith Morris found the net in the second half as the Russell Park men edged home by two points.

HURLING: SANDYFORD SIDE SEE OFF PEREGRINE’S

ST BRIGID’S are seeking a manager for

party will take place in the clubhouse on

their senior ladies football team for the

Sunday, December 11. Sam Maguire will

2017 season. The team has contested the

be in attendance and we will have live

senior championship final in both of the

music from the Dublin Army Band from

past two years.

7pm also.

We seek a manager with good organi-

The final St Brigid’s nursery of 2016

sational skills who will provide a high

takes place this Saturday in Russell

standard of coaching to drive on our

Park from 9.30am to 11am. The nursery

team. If you are interested, please con-

will then return after the Christmas

tact Ken Nyhan on 086 2524338.

Break. We welcome all 4-7 year olds in

St Brigid’s Christmas night out for

the Castleknock and Blanchardstown

all the coaches, mentors, parents and

area and new members and families are

members will take place on Saturday,

always welcome. For further informa-

December 10 at 8pm in the Russell Park

tion and queries, contact David on 085

clubhouse to see out the end of year.

8340169.

It will be a good opportunity for us to

Our lotto jackpot remains at €15,000

meet up and for all to enjoy a few drinks

with the reserve now also at €15,000.

together to celebrate the successes of

There was no jackpot winner in last

2016. Three drinks for €10 up until 11pm.

week’s draw. This week’s draw will

All welcome.

take place in The Vineyard on Thursday,

The St Brigid’s children’s Christmas

December 8.

CASTLEKNOCK HARD luck to our minor footballers who

Just come down to Tir na nOg, beside

after extra time in an epic battle against

Castleknock Community College, this

St Sylvester’s. Sincere thanks lads for all

Saturday at 10am, say hello to one of our

your efforts and commitment through-

friendly coaches and enjoy the sport and

out the year and best wishes to those

fun. The club shop will also be there and

who now progress into our adult section.

it’s a great opportunity to order goodies

Sincere thanks to all who contributed

Naomh Peregrine were denied a place in AHL2 bv Naomh Olaf. Picture: Larry Daly

Foley’s flurry falls just short of Olaf’s AHL3 PLAYOFF FINAL St Peregrine’s Naomh Olaf  PADDY HEWSON

0-16 1-17

sport@dublingazette.com

HURLING in December invariably means contesting the business end of a competition and it was promotion to AHL Division 2 on the line for St Peregrine’s and Naomh Olaf as they faced off at Blakestown road last Saturday.

The southside team were ultimately edge out their west Dublin opposition to win by four points with a late flurry in a game played a frenetic

pace normally reserved for summer hurling.

Olaf’s raced ahead with three points in the first ten minutes with a busy Brian Cusack contributing two.

Peregrine’s were slow to heat up but hit the boil at 11 minutes through a score from Cillian Byrnes.

Colm Foley quickly followed with the first of his 10 scores of the game from the 70 metre free but it was Olaf’s who applied most of the pressure in the first half.

For the Sandyford side, James O’Connor, Sean Bourke and Eoin Murphy all contributed to their tally, but Peregrine’s Joe

Fitzmaurice, Byrnes and marksman Foley ensured the sides were tied at eight points apiece at the break.

After the break, Olaf’s were again quick off the mark with two scores.

Foley continued the free taking exhibition to keep Peregrine’s in touch.

The turning point came at the seventh minute when the sliotar popped around the Peregrine’s danger area like a hot potato to allow Declan O’Dwyer to seize the initiative and score a goal from close range.

The west Dublin club were now forced to up the intensity against a

confident Olaf’s side.

Byrnes pointed quickly in reply, Foley added to his free tally and Brian Kelleher scored one and assisted Mark Sweeney for another.

It left the home team were still in contention with five minutes to go as Foley, yet again, equalised through a free.

Olaf’s were more consistent and better able to take their chances, however, and they posted scores from all over the pitch to run out winners with four late scores. They now look forward to plying their trade in Division 2 next year.

welcome.

narrowly lost their league semi-final

for Christmas.

non-perishable foods to the Crosscare

The GAA national draw tickets and

Christmas Appeal. Crosscare were very

Oskar DVDs also available and make

appreciative of the support received by

great stocking fillers.

the club.

Sort out those injuries before the sea-

Nursery party is on this Saturday,

son starts next year. Castleknock GAA

December 10 in Castleknock Community

club have a chartered physiotherapy

College from 2-4pm. Great entertain-

service led by James Sherry M.I.S.C.P.

ment for all and admission only €5.

This clinic is open to all club members

Sport agus Spraoi De Sathairn – our

every Saturday morning. Treatment

nursery, in association with Tiger Child-

sessions are available by appointment

care, for four to seven-year-olds is back

only. To book a physiotherapy appoint-

in full swing and new members are very

ment, contact James on 087 7553451.

NAOMH PEREGRINE

HARD luck to the senior hurlers who lost

Bring gum shields, helmets, hurls, water

by four points to Naomh Olaf in their AHL

and subs.

Division 3 playoff final on Saturday.

Details on Facebook “Naomh Per-

Congratulations to Aoife Coppinger,

egrines GAA Academy” or parents can

Eabha Mooney, Laura Brennan and

register for a Whatsapp group. For fur-

Megan Delaney on being selected for the

ther details, contact Niall on 086 607 3190

Dublin U-14 camogie panel. It is a great

or Barry on 087 618 3868.

honour for yourselves; everyone in the

The senior players awards night takes

club are very proud of your achieve-

place this Saturday, December 10 where

ments.

there will be music on the night by Mojo.

Applications are requested by Mon-

There will be complimentary finger food

day, December 12 for adult team men-

served. Special guests on the night are

tors. Please send your name and details

Eric Lowndes and his friend Sam.

to the secretary.

The club’s main pitch is not to be used for training without prior approval of Dave McEneaney/Paul Harte.

This is a club event and anyone connected with the club is invited to attend what should be a great night.

The juvenile awards take place on

Our nursery (born 2011 and 2012) and

December 17; nursery and academy is

academy (born 2009 and 2010) kids train

from 12-2 pm. CCC1 and CCC2 take place

every Thursday (5-6pm for all) and Sat-

from 2.30-4:30pm.

urday (9.30am nursery and 10.30am academy). Newcomers always welcome.

There will be a craft fair taking place on Sunday, December 11.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

WINGS CLIPPED: Peregrine’s promotion push halted at the final stage as Naomh Olaf win AHL2 position P31

DECEMBER 8-14, 2016

BRILLIANT BULLS ON PARADE: Clontarf batter past challenge of Trinity in Division 1A P28

NAC make big splash in and out of pool  sport@dublingazette.com

NAC swim club produced a string of top performances at the Irish short course swimming championship in Lisburn last weekend with a series of medals coming back to Dublin 15.

Jessica Burke began the medal rush for the club on Friday evening in the 800m freestyle, taking a massive 7.43 seconds off her personal best in a fantastic time of 9.12.25.

It was one of the highlight races on day one of three days with Brendan Hyland another to light up the Ulster venue.

Hyland, who trains at the NAC performance centre, broke an Irish

record during the first heats of the weekend when he lowered Barry Murphy’s 2011 100m Butterfly record to 53.04 while Bangor’s Jack McMillan swimming a time of 3.52.86 to break the Junior Boys 400m Freestyle record.

Hyland went on to win the 400m freestyle on the same night with a 3.50.72 swim, setting the tone for a wealth of medals.

He added the 100m and 200m butterfly golds, breaking a second Irish senior record in the process.

Hyland had held the previous record of 1.57.82 for 200m from 2014 and knocked half a second off that time to win gold in 1.57.31.

NAC’s Cillian Colvin brought

home the bronze in the 100m breaststroke, among three medals he would land over the weekend.

He would later add a silver medal for his role in the 200m individual medley relay.

He was also in the 200m freestyle relay team that took a bronze on Sunday.

Indeed, it was quite the team effort as NAC’s women won bronze in a very exciting finish in the 4x100m freestyle relay.

Individually, in a fantastic last session in Lisburn, Matt Coward was a bronze winner in the 50m freestyle. Like Colvin, he was a member of two relay medals, making for a fruitful weekend.

Hyland closed out his gala with the 400m individual medley, winning the crown by two seconds with a time of 4.18.07.

Outside of the pool NAC’s James Scully received a rousing reception as the double Paralympian was named the Outstanding Team Member (Athlete) of the Irish team at the Rio Games.

Scully made two finals in Rio and swam a number of personal bests.

His contribution to Team Ireland in and out of the pool was recognised with lifelong coach Dave Malone presenting the award making it a standout moment of the night.

The NAC swim club’s 4x100m freestyle team who won bronze in Lisburn last weekend