Swords

Swords GAZET TE FREE

‘The west is best for a mighty Mayo holiday break’ TRAVEL: P22-23.

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Celebrations hit the Wright note for guests P6

Soccer: Matt Doherty impresses in League Cup win Page 32

Sport Awards: August’s stars of the month nominees inside Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

September 1, 2011

A DREAM COME TRUE: Sarah beats thousands to get into school See Page 7

Swords gets a clean bill of health Q MIMI MURRAY

SWORDS proved it’s streets ahead of the rest, taking fourth position in the national Irish Business Against Litter survey, the results of which were released this week.

The performance has put Swords in line for outright winner in 2011, environmental organisation An Taisce said this week.

The high ranking saw

Swords retain its coveted status of ‘clean to European norms’ in the annual survey.

Mayor of Fingal, Gerry McGuire said he was thrilled with the result: “I am very pleased with the progress Swords has made and I would like to compliment the businesses and Fingal County Council as well as the local residents for ensuring that Swords did this well.”

Full Story on Page 6

Playing their part: Local kids raise funds for Africa charity LOCAL children took part in a charity

event that was held recently at Creative Day’s pre-school in aid of the East Africa Appeal for Plan Ireland. The appeal is specifically for Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Sudan where they

are experiencing sever drought. Margarette Gallagher from Plan Ireland visited the children in Creative Day’s pre-school and spoke to them about children and their families in Africa.

Full Gallery on Page 10

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

BUSINESS: IRISH RETAIL INDUSTRY AWARDS

Local retailers make a strong showing SWORDS retailers are making a strong showing in this year’s Irish Retail Industry Awards, with Bernard John Jewellers, Imaginarium, McCabes Pharmacy, Homestore + More, Azure, SuperDry, The Loop and Eason (T2 Dublin Airport) all shortlisted for Store of the Year 2011.

Elaine O’Neill from McCabe’s Pharmacy ( P av i l i o n S h o p p i n g Centre) is shortlisted for Manager of the Year 2011.

The awards are organised

by Retail Excellence Ireland.

Retail Excellence Ireland, Ireland’s largest retail industry body, has announced the shortlist for Store of the Year, Manager of the Year and Rising Star of the Year.

This year’s shortlist was selected from a hotly contested list of Ireland’s

top performing retailers. The award winners will be announced at the Retail Excellence Ireland Awards on November 5 at the Radisson Hotel, Galway.

Commenting on the unveiling of the 2011 shortlists David Fitzsimons, chief executive, Retail Excellence Ireland, said: “Ireland’s retailers have responded to the challenges they are currently facing by upping their game significantly.

“We were pleasantly surprised at the level of investment that retailers and their employees are putting into their businesses. The quality of this year’s nominees shows that, in spite of the unprecedented challenges facing Ireland’s retail industry, it is in good hands.”

Seeing Santa: One day will make a difference TV3 PRESENTER Alan Hughes was at The Pavilions

Shopping Centre recently in order to promote the Children to Lapland Dunnes Stores Nationwide Bag Packing Day which took place last Saturday.

Dunnes Stores held the Nationwide Bag Packing

Day on August 27 in aid of its charity, with all funds going towards sending terminally ill children from hospitals nationwide to see Santa in Lapland and Switzerland. The children’s charity is now in its 24th year.

WEBSITE: CREATIVITY INITIATIVE FOR THOSE AGED 50+

Seniors and their stories Q MIMI MURPHY

swords@gazettegroup.com

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK

*based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

SENIORCARE.IE and Home Instead Senior Care have launched a creativity initiative for those aged 50+ and are calling on all North County Dublin seniors to get involved.

Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care in Fairview, the aim of the initiative is to build an online library of poems, short stories and memoirs of older people in Ireland.

“The Creativity Initiative is for Ireland’s seniors

to showcase their creativity. It encourages people to express themselves and share their works with other writers who are 55 and over. We will publish your work on our website for free. Our aim is to build a rich archive.

If this is something that interests you, please get in touch,” said Conor Ebbs, co-founder and marketing manager of Senior Care.ie.

SeniorCare.ie was set up in 2007. It was the brainchild of Sheila Ebbs.

While struggling to find home care services for her mother, she had the idea

of setting up a website where people could find all related services in one place. Her son, Conor, a singer/songwriter and computer science graduate, stepped in with his expertise and, after a year of planning, the website was born. It has grown over the last four years, incorporating a forum and blog, and they hope the new creativity section will help the site reach even more people.

“You can be a budding writer at any age and at Home Instead Senior Care we encourage all aspiring writers to take

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‘Creative writing can help improve both quality of life and mental functioning’ --------------------------

part in the Creativity Initiative. Creative writing can help improve both quality of life and mental functioning. Writing stimulates a person’s brain cells and provides an opportunity to express personal thoughts and feelings. It can also be

a nostalgic activity and allows a senior to reflect on the past.

For example, if a senior writes a memoir, he or she has the opportunity to reminisce on past experiences and share this with children, friends and family members. The Creativity Initiative gives seniors the chance to take up a healthy and rewarding hobby,” said Peter Taylor of Home Instead Senior Care in Fairview.

If you have written poetry, short stories, or memoirs, simply email them to conor@seniorcare.ie

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

TOP DOGS Helping to train potential guide dogs

Puppy walking with Inca and Ubi Q MIMI MURPHY swords@gazettegroup.com

PUPPY dog walkers were out in force in Swords this week with several beautiful pups in training from the Irish Guide Dogs. They were learning how to use elevators, make their way in and out of shops and generally how to be social with adults and children.

The Gazette caught up with Irish Guide Dogs Operations Manager Ken Brydon and Stephen Kelly, Puppy Dog Walking Supervisor and two gorgeous dogs, Ubi, a goldendoodle, and Inca, a golden retriever.

“I’m visiting from the Guide Dog Training Centre in Cork. We have about 90 puppy dog walkers around Dublin city and Stephen’s job is to supervise those on a monthly basis. The pups come from us when they are eight weeks of age and they are puppy walked by volunteer families all over Dublin for about a 12-month period. We visit the people on a monthly basis to assess the puppy’s development and give advice on training.

“We have full public access through the environmental health to socialise and habituate the puppies to every environmental need, so we go into coffee shops, shopping centres, we travel on the Luas – everything possible so that when the dog becomes an adult it is sound enough to become a guide dog or a assistance dog for a child with autism.

“Inca goes down to Cork in about two week’s time in order to start her training to be a guide dog. She’s 13 months, so she will have another six months full training and the other little girl, Ubi, has just started. She’s 12 weeks old, and is a goldendoodle and she will be around Dublin for the next year.

“There are two phases and after that we decide if they are going to be a guide dog or an assistance training dog.”

Ken says he loves his job. “Most of us are a bit dog mad anyway, but it is great. It’s fun, dogs are like people, they have different characters and working with dogs and people is so enjoyable.

Stephen Kelly, Puppy Dog Walking Supervisor and Irish Guide Dogs Operations Manager, Ken Brydon and two gorgeous dogs, Inca, a golden retriever and Ubi, a goldendoodle. Picture: Mimi Murray

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‘When we have an unusual dog like the goldendoodle every body wants to stop and say hello, but that’s all part of the socialisation’ --------------------------------------------------------

We are always looking for people to become puppy dog walkers. If anyone is interested, they can get in touch with the Irish Guide Dogs. It is something they do for a year and we have people who have been walking dogs for 20 years and they just love doing it. When we have an unusual dog like the goldendoodle every body wants to stop and

say hello, but that’s all part of the socialisation.

We started using them over the last three to four years, but they have proven to have a really nice temperament for autistic kids because of the texture of the coat.”

Anyone who is interested in becoming a puppy dog walker should log on to the website www.guidedogs.ie

First consultation report on suitable drainage infrastructure is published THE first consultation report on identifying a suitable location and route for a vital new wastewater and drainage infrastructure in the northern part of Greater Dublin Area has been published by Fingal County Council.

A public consultation period was carried out over a four week period by FCC asking residents for their views on issues and concerns that should be looked to when determining the location of

new wastewater treatment works, a new marine outfall and new drainage pipe network.

Needs

“Over 1,000 people made contact with the Project Team on a wide range of issues, including environmental impacts, the site selection process, and the need to consider the community’s concerns during the development of such crucial infrastructure as the

Greater Dublin Drainage initiative,” says Peter O’Reilly, Project Engineer, Fingal County Council.

“The Project Team are reviewing all comments received and will take them into account in the next phase of the project, when a shortlist of potential sites and routes for the orbital sewer pipes will be identified.”

The report can be found at www.greaterdublindrainage.com

LOTTERY Swords couple win ¤500k A delighted Swords couple got the week off to the perfect start, as they picked up a cheque for €500,000 at National Lottery offices – their EuroMillions Plus top prize from last Friday’s draw.

The excited winners, who wish to remain anonymous, were delighted with their win “we’re thrilled,” said the lucky husband. “This is a fantastic amount to win.”

The wife added: “I checked the ticket in a shop on Saturday morning. I couldn’t believe it when I realised I’d won.

I went straight home to tell my husband the good news.”

The lucky couple have no immediate plans for their win.

The lucky €3 Quick Pick ticket was bought on the day of the draw in Tuthills Shop, Unit 8, Pavilions Shopping Centre, Swords.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

IT’S YOUR STORY The second part of a report on the Teachers

Making a difference in Africa Continued from last week

Mother Teresa’s Orphanage On one afternoon we visited Mother Teresa’s Orphanage, where we played with the beautiful children orphaned by malnutrition and disease.

On another afternoon we visited the Marian Shrine which is another orphanage.

They met an Irish woman working there helping with the teaching of the older children and bought many beaded bracelets and necklaces made by them.

They sang and played the drums for them and some of our students played the tin whistle and bodhran for them.

On the last day they were treated to a display of netball games in a yard with an uneven cement surface.

They play with no shoes and no PE uniform.

They performed traditional dance with drums for them. They were great movers.

Our students also participated in some of the games and dance. The students and teachers gave gifts of bracelets, balloons, pencils and sweets to the children.

Finally, Pauline Griffin presented a clock and engraving that they had brought from Ireland as a gift to the teachers.

After many hugs and tears, they made our final farewell and went back to pack for our

return journey to Ireland the following day.

What impressed Pauline the most was the friendliness of the Zambian people, their beautiful skin and teeth and their faith in God. T h e M a r y A i ke n head Open Community School, is in Lusaka, Zambia.

The school has its origins under the shelter of a tree in 1992.

Later with help from Irish Aid and Zambian Open Community Schools, a school was built in Kawabata.

The Sisters of Charity wanted to help the young girls in the Compounds whose parents could not afford the fees in the government run schools.

The female child had become very vulnerable as a result, often marrying or being raped at a very young age and ultimately living a life of extreme poverty.

It is a male dominated society where boys are often educated in preference to girls.

Zambia also has the highest incidence of HIV/Aids.

The girls in the Mary Aikenhead School are either single or double orphaned girls.

The final year in the school is grade 7 which is equivalent to the Irish Junior Certificate.

The students must sit a state exam in Grade 7 and in Grade 9 before they can enter Grade 10 in a government

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‘It is a male dominated society where boys are often educated in preference to girls. Zambia also has the highest incidence of HIV/Aids. The girls in the Mary Aikenhead School are either single or double orphaned girls. ’ --------------------------------------------------------

school.

The Sisters of Charity Zambia, then sponsor and find places for the students who want to complete their education, in so far as possible.

Poor Facilites The facilities in the school are poor compared to European standards.

There is an outside tap for drinking water which must be boiled.

There is no flush in the toilets and the yard is made of uneven concrete.

The school has over 600 students. The day is divided in two with the senior classes in the morning and the younger classes in the afternoon.

The girls walk for an hour into the school from the compounds along dirt roads, and then wash their feet in the outside tap.

Both teaching sessions begin with an assembly in the yard followed by a bowl of porridge made with maize.

For some this is their

only meal of the day.

The teachers and students from St Mary’s are taught computers, maths, english reading, science, music and dance, art and games.

A typical class consisted of 65 students.

Before they began teaching, each class sang a song in harmony to welcome them and to thank them.

There is simply not enough teachers to meet the needs of the school. The school is not supported by the government.

The Sisters Of Charity rely on outside donations to pay the teachers’ salaries and run the school in general.

The teachers are also not fully qualified and some survive on 50 Kwatcha, about €8, a month after paying high rents for accommodation.

Rents are high in Lusaka. People with money build houses and high rise f lats which must be enclosed in walls for security as theft is high in Lusaka.

Computer facilities

The school has over 600 students

had only been set up when they arrived.

There were only five wo r k i n g c o m p u t e r s which were ver y old and had been donated to the school.

There was no Internet and they had no printer.

The mouse attached to the computers were dirty and very old.

Meeting some new friends

None of the students and most of the teachers had ever used a computer before.

Our group taught them the basics of using a computer.

Sue Tully who has been teaching computers in St Mary’s Secondary school Baldoyle for many years proved to be

a very valuable asset.

Many, many thanks to all the teachers and students for giving their time and effort to this most worthwhile cause.

We hope to continue our association with the Mary Aikenhead Open Community School in Lusaka for many years to come.

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

and students from St Mary’s trip to Zambia

Visiting an orphanage

A display of traditional dance

Pauline Griffin presents a clock from Ireland as a gift Playing traditional drums

to the teachers

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

PAVILIONS: NEW STORE IS GREAT BOOST FOR CENTRE

River Island due to open RETAIL giants River Island will soon add to the 1,600 jobs that are already in existence in Pavilions shopping centre in Swords.

Last week, the high street chain were interviewing staff for their new store which will open in the shopping centre some time in September.

Centre Director, Ian Hunter said it is great news for the centre as it is something their customer base have been asking for, for some time.

“It’s fantastic news for the centre that we have signed one of the more popular high street brands. It should be open-

ing some time in September and it will be a great addition to the centre. It’s about preventing people from driving past us, from this area, to another shopping centre. You don’t need to leave this centre to get the big brands. Albeit, we don’t have all the big brands and we won’t have space for all the brands until and if we do Phase 3.

That will see us being an all encompassing regional centre then,” he said.

Planning permission is in place for Phase 3 but with the current economic situation, Hunter could not give a firm timeline for when Phase 3 would go into construction.

IBAL Result is great news for north Dublin town

Swords is winning the battle against litter Q MIMI MURRAY

SWORDS has gotten its best ever (IBAL) Irish Business Against Litter results and the performance puts Swords in line for outright winner in 2011, An Taisce said this week.

Swords came fourth on the list and has retained its status of ‘clean to European norms’.

“This is an excellent result for Swords with all of the sites surveyed getting the top litter grade. Clearly, enormous efforts

have been made in Swords over the last number of years and it is great to see this reflected in the results in IBAL Anti-Litter Survey. Pavilions Shopping Centre Car Park was in pristine condition and Abrakebabra scored particularly well, considering it was surveyed at 1.45 on a Friday afternoon.”

Swords is now a candidate to win the 2011 league which is great news for the North Dublin town. However, it was not all good news for the area with the

Dublin airport environs among the most littered in the country.

“This is the first time that Dublin Airport Environs has been included in the IBAL AntiLitter Survey and only two sites were Clean to European Norms - nearby Swords got ten. This is a bad first impression for the nation’s visitors, more than half of whom come through Dublin airport. Hopefully the next result will be much better,” An Taisce said.

Mayor of Fingal, Gerr y

McGuire said he was thrilled with the result this week.

“I am very pleased with the progress Swords has made and I would like to complement the businesses and Fingal County Council as well as the local residents for ensuring that Swords did this well.

“The local Chamber of Commerce and businesses made dramatic strides and hopefully it will result in Swords being top of the list in 2011. It’s a very pleasing result.”

Colourful characters: Meeting with Morph Men NICHOLAS Halligan and Jack Halligan ran into some rather colourful characters when they paid a visit recently to Swords Pavilions.

The pair bumped into some of Meteor’s orange Morph Men who were at the centre promoting the mobile phone operators latest offers.

They were also giving away some free credit and other gifts for shoppers at the popular venue.

EIRCOM: UPGRADE HOPED TO BE COMPLETED BY SUMMER 2012

Locations named for fibre broadband rollout Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

EIRCOM Group have announced the locations for Phase 1 of its fibre rollout plan, which will include communities in Swords and Donabate.

The announcement follows last month’s commitment by the group to spend €100 million on Phase 1 of a plan that aims to reach one million premises over the next four years.

Work is expected to commence this autumn and will continue through the summer of 2012.

Once Phase 1 is completed, fibre will pass more than 100,000 homes and businesses within the selected areas, pro-

viding speeds of 40 Mbps and beyond. The upgraded infrastructure will largely use fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) technology, but some direct fibre to the home (FTTH) will be used in certain areas.

The locations announced today are in addition to the four pilot areas previously announced. They include Wexford Town along with Sandyford Village, Priory Park and Dundrum in County Dublin.

Commenting on the announcement, Paul Donovan, CEO eircom Group, said: “This is the next step in the rollout of high-speed broadband services. We have selected locations which have a geographical reach beyond Dublin and

across the country.

“We believe there is a strong appetite for new fibre-based products and services that will be competitively priced. Work will commence later this year and we hope to have the network upgrade completed by the end of summer 2012.”

Fine Gael TD for Dublin North Alan Farrell welcomed the announcement this week.

“This is a very positive step towards improving the broadband service within Dublin North. Access to fibre-powered broadband is of strategic importance to the vibrant business community in Swords and Donabate.

“Homes and businesses in this area will soon have the

opportunity to take advantage of a growing broadband market, and we know that the expansion of the market leads to improved quality and services.

“Vital infrastructure such as high-speed, good quality broadband is invaluable for businesses to communicate and perform effectively within today’s digitally focussed market.

“This Government has set out its agenda for the next four years to co invest with the private and semi-state sector to provide next generation broadband to every home and business in the state, with the aim to deliver fibre powered broadband to 90% of homes and businesses.”

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

PEOPLE Local gains entry to prestigious school

TK MAXX: LABELSOR-LESS

Store reopens after major revamp Sarah on stage at the Gate Theatre

Sarah Madigan on stage at the Gate Theatre

Sarah in Harold Pinter’s, Celebration

Sarah’s bid to make dreams come true Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS woman, Sarah Madigan has beaten thousands to gain entry into the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

She now hopes that some generous businesses in the area will sponsor her throughout the two-year course and help make her dream a reality.

“I have recently been accepted onto the twoyear acting course.

LAMDA is one of the leading drama schools in the English-speaking world.

“The institutions that combined to form LAMDA date from 1861, making the academy the oldest of its kind in Britain, with a long-established reputation for excellence,” she said.

Past pupils include the celebrated Irish actor Richard Harris, Donald Sutherland and Jim Broadbent.

“Every year, over 3,000 students audition in the hopes of gaining a place at LAMDA. Only 28 are accepted onto the twoyear course and, on average, only two to three of these coveted places are given to Irish students.

“I am currently seeking donations to help

cover course fees and costs. With help from friends and family, I have already raised approximately €3,500 but I am still extremely short of my €35,000 target for the two-year course.

“Due to the long working hours expected at the academy often Monday to Saturday, 9am - 9pm, I will be unable to support myself through part-time work during term time.

“I have always wanted to be an actor. I loved performing from a very young age and took speech and drama classes with Una Dunne in Swords, with whom I went on to receive a Distinction in my final grade

8 exams through the Royal Irish Academy.

“I was a student at Loreto College, Swords where I was the Head of Drama.

“I graduated from University College Dublin in 2008 with honours BA International degree in English and French, and was af ter wards selected to take part in a postgraduate performer training programme in Queen’s University, Belfast.

“I became the chairperson for the Irish Student Drama Association (ISDA) in 2008, which I remained for two years - setting up the Association’s first ever website.”

Sarah has appeared on the Gate stage in a role in Harold Pinter’s, Celebration, as part of B.P.M. – Beckett Pinter Mamet Festival.

“I appeared alongside an ensemble cast of leading Irish actors.

I h ave f e a t u r e d i n series of Maru for TG4, and will soon be seen in their forthcoming series, Anisprid, in the autumn. I have also twice collaborated with American artist, Eliza Newman-Saul, on her performance pieces at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) and the Witte de With Centre of Contemporary Art, Rotterdam.

“I am offering sponsors twice-yearly letters detailing my experience’s progress through drama school, as well as notices of public performances in London and elsewhere and occasional updates thereafter. I will promote any corporate sponsors through my Sponsor My Dream Facebook campaign if so requested.

“The training provided at LAMDA will help me to fulfil my potential as an actor, as well as offering invaluable networking opportunities with theatres and casting professionals in Britain, which I would otherwise never have.”

AFTER a major revamp the popular TK Maxx store in Swords Pavilions reopened its doors recently.

After a complete makeover, the “all new” labels-for-less store in Swords will be fit for a retail King and Queen, bursting with all the favourite designer goodies with up to 60% off the RRP. The stylish new store was unveiled at a special ceremony at 10am on Saturday, August 20 with ribbon-cutting ceremonies attended to by special guest Nadia Forde.

To add to the delight, the first 1,000 customers in each of the stores received a €10 giftcard to spend on their favourite brands in-store.

T here was lots of excitement and offers on the day, including style tips for autumn winter from well-known stylist, Courtney Smith.

Also, on the day, professional artists from Make Up Forever were on hand to provide customers with the latest, on-trend looks with free on-the-spot makeovers.

Along with this, the Swords store received an exclusive once-off delivery of Gold Label items.

New-look Commenting on the new-look store, Helen G u n t e r, s p o ke s p e rson for TK Maxx said: “We are truly elated to reveal the transformation of our stores in St Stephen’s Green and Swords.

“You’ll still find the same wide choice of high street and designer fashion and accessories as low as 60% off the RRP. “We hope you’ll also love the little touches we’ve added to create an even better shopping experience.”

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

TAKE TWO Another look at how The Wright Venue, Swords,

2 years for top venue ITH so many stylish and glamorous people, around 5,000, turning out to help celebrate the Wright Venue’s 2nd birthday, we decided to bring you some more of our photographer’s fantastic shots of what was a momentous night in Swords.

In its first two years it has won The Licensing World Award for best nightclub; it has been listed in The Top Red Bull Clubs Worldwide list and it has also won the Boutique Design awards for Best nightclub in 2010.

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Katie Slean, Rebecca O’Brien Taylor and Hayley Burke. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Breege Morris and Audrey Craven

Michael Sharpe and Jackie Rafter

Maralyn Harding and Maria Broderick

Lauar Jane Dowling and Sinead Egan

Faye Rooney

Niamh Luckie and Karen Barry

1 September SWORDS GAZETTE 9

celebrated its second birthday with a huge party

Rachel Hogan, Katie Dowling and Sarah Cotterall

Katherine Wade, Claire Lawlor and Samone Nankerins Caitriona Browne and Heather Handley

Donna Maguire, Lauren Connolly and Paula Finn

Sandra Kenny and Andrea Bonny

Debbie Manning and Roser Bosquet

Nicola Rohan, Marion Cahill and Rebecca Harding

Sharon Fowler and Emily McDonagh

Laura Padden and Dee Laffan

Sinead Mullen and Erica Burche

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

EVENT

Children raise €270 for East Africa Appeal

Katherine and Lily

Fundraiser

Raising money for kids

ARGUERITE Gallagher from Plan Ireland visited the children in Creative Day’s pre-school and spoke to them about children and their families in Africa.

She showed them posters of the children’s homes, school’s, where they cook and get clean water. The children then planned a garden fair to raise money for the children in Africa. They planted seeds to sell at their farmers market stall, baked cakes, donated their toys and books to sell.

They played ‘splash the teacher’ which they really enjoyed. The event was a great success and the children raised €270 for the East Africa Appeal.

Marguerite Gallagher (Plan Ireland) Dylan, Joshua, Jamie, Daniel, Cian, Thamzen, Caitlin, James, Mark, Luke, Adam, Zac, Lily, Katherine, Jessica, Louie, Emillio, Emily and Lily

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Jamie and Dylan

Emily, Adam and Joshua

Louie, Luke, Caitlin and Jamie

Dylan, Adam, Mark and Jamie

Jamie, James, Rachel, Luke and Dylan

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteFITNESS FITNESS

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1 September 2011 GAZETTE 13

On track: Woodie’s and awards AT THE Woodie’s DIY Senior

A FUN RUN: MAKE-A-WISH-FOUNDATION IRELAND

Marathon to make a wish come true Q STAFF REPORTER

THE Make-A-WishFoundation Ireland is currently looking for participants in this year’s Dublin City Marathon to run on behalf of the foundation.

Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children aged three to 18, who live with life-threatening medical conditions. This wish can create a memory for both the child and their family.

It’s an opportunity for them to forget about hospitals, injections, treatment and even sickness, if only for a while.

When you have a sick child and you live in Kerry, for example, your child’s treatment takes place in Dublin.

Can you imagine the stress on parents and siblings with regards to school runs, lunches, homework and even play time, when your priority and thoughts are always

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‘There are over 220 children waiting on a wish to be granted and with a new child added to the list everyday they really need support as they get no government funding at all and totally rely on fundraising’ --------------------------------------------------------

with your sick child and his or her next three-day treatment in Dublin?

All too often, the siblings resent the sick child for monopolising their parents. Make-A-Wish allows the sick child to become the hero and to put the smile back on everyone’s faces.

The concept of MakeA-Wish began in America back in 1980, when Chris, a seven-year-old boy with leukaemia, told his mum he wished he could be a policeman for a day.

She decided to do her utmost to make his wish come true and with the help of the local police

force – the first wish of the Make-A-Wish movement was granted. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish is now in every state in America and in 37countries worldwide, with Make-A-Wish opening in Ireland in 1992.

The foundation have granted all sort of wishes, visits to football grounds such as Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge where the children have met the players and managers, trips to Disneyworld to meet their favourite characters or, for girls, simply having a bedroom turned into a pink Barbie room.

There are many wonderful stories of how

wishes have added joy to a child’s day and given the family something to smile about, if only for a short time.

Currently, there are over 220 children waiting on a wish to be granted and, with a new child added to the list every day, they really need support as they get no government funding at all and totally rely on fundraising.

Awareness They are looking for people to run on behalf of the foundation to help raise not only funds, but awareness of the charity too, and whether you raise €10 or €1,000, it all really helps. They will be there on the day to assist you in any way possible and they are always at the end of the phone should you have any queries.

For further information, call Make-A-Wish Foundation Ireland on 01-205 2012 or visit www.makeawish.ie

Gaming: Meet Super Mario’s dad and legendary Nintendo figure

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Track and Field Championships, Paul Hession (Athenry AC) produced the performance of the championships in the 200m winning in 20.51, achieving the A qualification standard for both the World Championships and the London Olympic Games. After what he described as a ‘frustrating’ season, the Galway man was delighted to have finally run the time, particularly in Dublin.

He was pushed all the way

by U23 European finalist, Steven Colvert (Crusaders AC), who was second in 20.84, while European U23 400m silver medallist, Brian Gregan, was third in 21.09 in a personal best. Paul was awarded the cheque of €500 for the Woodie’s DIY performance of the meet.

Pictured are Ray Colman, Chief Executive of Woodie’s DIY and Garden Centres presenting a €500 cheque to Irish Record Holder, Paul Hession.

SEE GAMING PAGE 25

14 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC RADIO: A FRESH OUTLOOK FOR O’CALLAGHAN AND 4FM

Afternoon delight for Gareth’s radio relaunch Q ROB HEIGH

Imelda May

COMPETITION: Win special Imelda album FOLLOWING her recent appearances on Conan O’Brien’s late night talk show on American television, as well as the stage of Grant Park in Chicago at the Lollapalooza music festival, Imelda May is releasing a new version of her hit album, Mayhem, next month, and Gazette Music have five copies to give away in our exclusive competition.

More Mayhem features the full original album, as well as new tracks Gypsy, Blues A Calling and upcoming single, Roadrunner, as well as a cover of Patsy Cline’s Walking After Midnight, and remixes of Inside Out and Proud And Humble.

Imelda’s stint stateside has seen her hailed in all quarters, and the impression she has made has propelled Mayhem to number one on the Billboard New Artist chart.

To win a copy of More Mayhem, simply answer the following question: Where in Dublin is Imelda May from?

Send your answer to competition@gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Imelda Mayhem”, before Friday, September 9.

DU BL I N h a s b e e n blessed in recent years with the appearance of several new stations catering to more niche audiences that fall outwith the traditional demographic lines that programmers identify when planning their content.

Radio Nova and P h a n t o m F M h ave blazed a trail for rock and indie, and now, Classic Hits 4FM are aiming to do the same thing for, of course, lovers of classic hits.

The multi-city broadcaster is gearing up for a huge publicity campaign to draw what it sees as a prime market to the station as they fill their airtime with the kind of songs that are instantly recognisable and loved across a wide section of the population.

Speaking to Gazette Mu s i c l a s t we e k , a very familiar voice of Irish radio, Gareth O’Callaghan, was clear about the place that 4FM will take in people’s hearts with their new approach.

“We are targeting a broad audience as well, basically, people who love good music from any era. What we are offering is something people are going to say, “Yes, this is for me”.

“We have a broad remit as to the kind of music we can play, from the ’60s and the late ’70s and ’80s, all the way through to the best tracks of the last five years – good, classic music, from all genres.”

O’Callaghan is a well known voice on Irish radio, his 2FM show in the afternoon being a stalwart of the airwaves

Gareth O’Callaghan in the offices of 4FM: “People need to listen, because they will like it.”

for many years, and he has returned to that slot on 4FM as part of the relaunch, after a period hosting their flagship breakfast show, and he is thrilled with the response of the increas-

worked fantastically well. “ I t ’s r e f l e c t e d o n the messages we get in to the studio – I’ve never seen such a busy text screen, and we’re swamped by the many

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‘We’ve got rid of all the things that people had thrown at them and was told was good radio in the last 10 years, and stripped it back to what works - a friendly voice and great music’ --------------------------------------------------------

ing number of listeners who are tuning in and getting in touch with the show.

“We’re relaunching the station with a new schedule and new presenters. Myself, I am back on the afternoon show after having hosted the breakfast show on 4FM, and that has

ways that people can get in touch with us – on Facebook, on Twitter and email and text as well.

The feeling I’m getting is that people are really responding well to what we’re doing, and we want more people to get involved and listening.”

With a potential reach of 2.7 million people across the areas that 4FM broadcasts in, there is every chance of it breaking the traditional habits of radio fans.

“The ratings are climbing at a phenomenal rate, and we want to build on that with our new approach,” said O’Callaghan.

“There has been such a huge change in the station, we know w h e r e we ’r e g o i n g .

In six months’ time, I believe we’ll have a firm foothold all round the country.

“The next six months will be a challenge, but we believe we are going to be very successful. I believe, in 18 months, we are going to be one of the biggest radio stations in the country.”

O’Callaghan is convinced that the formula will work because, he firmly believes, that

4FM is hitting the right note at the right time.

What we’re doing at Classic Hits 4FM now is re-establishing what radio is all about – entertainment.

“We’ve got rid of all the things that people had thrown at them and was told was good radio in the last 10 years, and stripped it back to what works - a friendly voice and great music.

“With the current doom and gloom, we’re helping to remind people of when things were better, when they were more involved in the music, and we’re trying to recreate that.

“We simply play the music that people love, what you listen to when you want to feel good.

The music speaks for itself.

“We need to convince people that they need to listen, because they will like it,” said O’Callaghan.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Armani launches first regenerative skincare range “THERE is skin. And then there is Armani skin – a skin that you want to touch, a skin that you won’t forget, a skin that appears luminous, youthful, desirable,” says world-famous designer Giorgio Armani,whose luxury skincare brand has just launched its first advanced regenerative skincare range.

To create the first Advanced Regenerative Skincare, Giorgio Armani Laboratories say they were inspired by the research work of Professor Peter Lorenz, Plastic Surgery, Head of

the Scarless Skin Repair Laboratory at the Stanford School of Medicine.

During his general surgery research training at UCSF, Professor Lorenz was part of a team that made a major discovery. The foetuses that bore impor tant surgery in utero, did not show any scar when born. They regenerated perfectly.

“Ideally, we want tissues to heal with a perfect replacement tissue.

This is what we mean by tissue regeneration.

For skin, regenerative healing would result in

new skin. The appearance of the regenerated skin would be just like the surrounding normal skin – a perfect match of colour, texture, and feel to normal skin,” says Lorenz.

The range includes Multi-Corrective Rejuvenating Cream €85,Youth Regenerator Serum €95, Eye Rejuvenatin Serum €60 and Cosmetic Water €40.

Giorgio Armani Regenessence is available exclusively at Brown Thomas Dublin and Brown Thomas Cork from September 2011.

A delicious new multipurpose oil

Giorgio Armani’s advanced regenerative skincare range includes the Youth Regenerator Serum (top right) and the Multi-Corrective Rejuvenating Cream (above)

Wedding fair

Newly crowned Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter, will be amongst those attending this year’s Radisson Blu St Helen’s Wedding Fair Sunday, September 25, from 2pm – 6pm.

The annual event is a must for brides-to-be with a huge range of

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suppliers taking part with all the latest fashions for your big day, tasty food ideas, Cathy O’Connor, TV3’s celeb stylist and the chance to enter a competition to win a two-night stay at the stylish Missoni Hotel in Edinburgh for two people.

And if you book your

wedding at the Radisson Blu, St Helen’s on September 25, you will receive a 20% discount off your wedding menu price and complimentary sparkling wine reception for your guests.

For information, contact Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel Stillorgan on 01 218 6000.

IRISH company, Tan Organic, has just launched a new multipurpose product, Oil Arganic, that can be used for dry, cracked skin, hair, nails, stretch marks and scars.

The delicious new oil is formulated with ingredients such as argan oil, rosehip oil, macadamia oil, sweet almond oil and avocado oil. Tan Organic says it’s also perfect for use during tanning to prolong tan and ensure tan wears off evenly.

It is soon to be available nationwide at €24.99, and you can order online through www.skinlogic.com

16 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day from around the capital

A host of well-known faces from sport, politics, entertainment and business got together to launch this year’s Blue September Ireland initiative this week

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Blue in the face? It’s on trend this month!

THE inaugural Blue September Ireland campaign launched this week with the aim of challenging Irish men to face up to cancer.

Blue September Ireland will raise awareness of bowel, lung, prostate and testicular cancer, while fundraising for the following Irish charities: Cancer Care West, The Marie Keating Foundation, The Mater Foundation and The Mercy Hospital Foundation.

Key supporters of this year’s campaign include An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Bernard Jackman, Trent Johnson, Karl Henry, Gerry McEntee – Consultant Surgeon at the Mater Hospital, and the Leinster, Munster and Connacht Rugby teams.

Blue September Ireland is encouraging people to host a Blue event, by either painting their faces blue one day in September, hosting a Blue themed day in work or to create a completely new Blue idea to raise vital funds.

Unislim have designed a healthy eating plan – Food Max For Men – written for men. This plan will not only help men to lose weight, it will boost their health and increase their energy levels. The plans are available to purchase online at www.unislim.com or at any Unislim class nationwide.

All proceeds will go directly to Blue September.

DIARY Calling carnivores!

A LITTLE beyond the pale for the Diary this week, but we received a most intriguing email from the southeast! It reads: “My dad (O’Flynn’s Wholesale Victuallers) is a quality butcher in Waterford and one of the oldest family butchers in Ireland (oldest record I can find is 1846). With over 165 years in the business comes lots of ‘meat’ know how!

“We want to start a campaign to get the Irish people’s favourite recipes into one collection. To do this, we need lots of recipes and we would love some help in rallying the community!

“The Butcher and Us want to bring a community cook book, filled with recipes and tips that focus on meat as the main ingredient of each dish, from traditional ‘comfortstyle meals’ to tapas and other interesting ways of cooking meat.

“We want to collect the community’s favourite meat recipes from breakfast specials, to dinner favourites to BBQ secrets.

We are going to collect them all into a very special cookbook.

“We need people to email thebutcherandus@gmail.com with their meat recipes along with their name, where they are from, email address and phone number so we can get in touch before the book is published.”

So, any passionate Dublin carnivores out there who would like their meaty recipes included in this gastronomic tome should get in touch – just don’t forget to send the Diary a sample of your finest dish.

Laugh for Peamount THE Friends of Peamount Hospital will kick off their year-long fundraising drive this month with a special event at Dublin’s Laughter Lounge on Eden Quay.

The society is aiming to raise money to replace older buildings at the hospital, as they get set to celebrate their centenary next year. The event will kickstart a fundraising drive that will end with next year’s centenary celebrations, sure to be a highlight for many in the area.

The event takes place on Wednesday, September 28, and will see The Panel regular Jarlath Regan MC for a night of comedy.

Tickets, priced at €25 each can be purchased from Fran Brennan at 01 6010300 ext 292 or email fbrennan@peamount.ie

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: KEEPING CANINE FLEAS AT BAY IS ESSENTIAL FOR A DOG’S GOOD HEALTH

Keeping your pet from those pesky parasites HE phone’s been ringing with requests for education workshops – hailing the start of the new school year.

One of the most popular requests has been from mums’ groups looking for my Pesky Parasites workshops, dealing with canine fleas. And, while these pests are more likely to cause problems during warm weather, I tell callers they’re also known to hang around during the cool season due to their abilities to continue their life cycle indoors.

Ah, those dreaded fleas.

We can never, ever underestimate the determined little freeloaders.

Ok, they can be neutralised, however, they’re very resilient and have a four-stage cycle making it difficult to get rid of them.

For example, did you know a flea can live in our environment for over a year without feeding and is protected by their impenetrable shell? It’s at this stage they survive most treatments and return to breed and repopulate year after year – sort of like a series of bad horror movie sequels.

Remember Friday the 13th?

So, be warned, one hatched cocoon can produce over a trillion offspring in her nine-month life-span. This army can continue to fight time and again, causing a serious health risk to your pet (in extreme circumstances, anemia). So you see, treating your pet is essential for their good

T

health and in order to kill any errant fleas entering from other quarters.

Remember, fleas can jump over six feet and will get into your home via pets and humans. If you’ve white clothing, like runners, sports socks, t-shirts – they love it.

They’ll get into the sitting room and live there unnoticed and will happily reproduce without you ever knowing… well, not until the problem is at

worms to your dog.

So, how do I check for fleas?

• Check your dog’s coat for flea dirt (feces) • Comb your dog’s coat while he’s lying on a white sheet of paper – black flecks that resemble dirt will fall onto the paper.

Transfer them to a damp piece of paper and, if they turn reddish brown, then it usually means fleas have sucked blood from

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‘A flea can live in our environment for over a year without feeding and is protected by their impenetrable shell. It’s at this stage they survive most treatments and return to breed and re-populate year after year – sort of like a series of bad horror movie sequels ’ -------------------------------------------------------

an advanced stage. So, it’s best to treat everywhere; indoors, outbuildings like garages, sheds, dog kennels, etc.

Here’s a checklist:

your pet and have passed into the flea’s waste matter. If they remain black, the flecks are possibly just regular dirt on your dog.

Whew!

How will fleas affect my dog?

Preventing fleas?

• Dog will incessantly chew and scratch at himself, often until the area becomes hairless, raw and weeping. This can cause scaling and a bacterial infection.

• Display visible patches of hair loss due to scratching.

• Possible skin allergies.

• Fleas may transmit other parasites like tape-

• In the house: Regularly hoover carpets, bedding, and furniture and anywhere else your dog spends time. Remember to immediately dispose of your hoover bag, otherwise it will act as an incubator for un-hatched fleas. Regular washing of your dog’s bedding will help.

• In the garden: Fleas thrive in shady, protected areas where your dog

loves to rest. Keep an eye on these areas and use an insecticide (usually sprayed through a garden hose). Always read the label, use extreme caution, consult your vet and keep your dog away from this area until it is safe to allow him return. Alternatively, use a natural flea repellant like cedar chips along the fence line or in dark areas.

• Keep your grass short and get rid of any dark, moist heaps like leaves or rubbish.

• Your pet’s diet: Fleas l ove m a l n o u r i s h e d animals because their immune systems are weak. Make sure your pet has a balanced diet. Consult your vet for advice on proper feeding.

Treatment:

• Flea shampoo • Regular grooming • On-pet spray • Monthly spot applications • Treat all dogs in the household So readers, if you want your pet to live free of disease, irritation, allergies and infestation, do not allow this remorseless enemy to survive in his environment.

Always check with your vet, but I believe prevention is better than cure and personally use a systemic monthly flea product, which dramatically reduces the flea burden in mine and my dog’s environment.

For more info log onto www.dspca.ie, check with your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca. ie

Fleas can jump over six feet and can get into your home via pets and humans

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18 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

Lexus unveils its new safer GS 350 LEXUS has unveiled the new GS model in the US and the news is that the car will reach the Irish market in 2012. Lexus claims that the new GS is more spacious and has a bolder design than in the past.

The car has a redesigned chassis with a

wide, strong stance that delivers a new level of crisp and precise handling.

The track, wider by 40mm at the front and 50mm at the rear, works in combination with a revised suspension design to what Lexus claims is a more assured stance and

superior cornering performance.

The car features a new suspension system. In the front, aluminium upper and lower control arms employ larger bushings.

The rear sub frame has been completely redesigned to accommodate a new multi-link

rear suspension, to give better rear-end control.

With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shock absorbers can use lighter-viscosity oil, responding faster to small inputs.

The increased use of aluminium reduces weight and results in sig-

nificantly improved agility, ride comfort, body control and steering precision.

The new Lexus GS will include hybrid and F-Sport versions. For the Irish market there will be the GS 450h full hybrid and GS 250 petrol engine derivatives.

The new Lexus GS 350

Chevrolet showcase new Malibu CHEVROLET will be showcasing the new Malibu model at the upcoming Frankfur t Motor Show. The car was not previously available in Europe. It will go on sale next year and be the brand’s new flagship model.

With a wheelbase of 2,737mm and a track width of 1,577mm, the new Malibu has an athletic posture. Its grounded stance and an integrated spoiler combine to give the car an assertive look.

Thanks to a drag coefficient close to the Volt’s 0.28, Chevrolet claims that the Malibu will be one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in Chevrolet’s passenger vehicle line-up. The drag coefficient close to the General Motors Volt at 0.28, helping to keep fuel consumption levels low.

The Malibu will have the option of a 164bhp 2.0-litre diesel or 169bhp 2.4-litre petrol engine – expect that diesel power will dominate in Ireland and the rest of Europe.

There will be the option

Chevrolet’s new Malibu

of both manual and automatic transmission.

The car will be fitted with chassis control technologies including fourchannel anti-lock brakes (ABS), full-function traction control, four-corner electronic stability control (ESC), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist system (BA), corner brake control, hydraulic brake fade assist and drag torque control.

When it comes to safety features, the new Malibu will be one of the best-equipped vehicles in the segment. It will be pedestrian-protectioncompliant in all markets where it is sold.

A total of eight airbags, dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver and frontpassenger pelvic/thorax side-impact airbags as well as roof rail-airbags with rollover protection, are standard safety features for all global markets. Rear park assist and a rearview camera are available with mid- and up-level offerings.

The new Volkswagen Jetta received a five-star rating in the most recent Euro NCAP crash test survey

More five stars at Euro NCAP tests but it’s getting tougher THE latest set of Euro NCAP crash test results brings an additional reward and more fivestars, but not everyone is ready for tougher requirements in 2012.

This month’s top scorers with five-star results are the Audi A6, the BMW X3, the Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Orlando, the Citroën DS5, the Hyundai i40, the Opel Ampera, the VW Golf Cabriolet and Jetta.

Only the Kia Picanto receives an overall rating of four stars, a result poorer than many of its city-car competitors.

The new Picanto is fitted with Electronic Stability Control as standard in Ireland, but not in

every European market, so hence the lower fourstar rating as the lowest model specification is selected for the test.

The new Opel Ampera electric car achieved an overall rating of five stars.

The new range-extending EV reached the maximum points in the side pole test as a result of a well optimized balance of structure, interior and restraint system.

Also released this month are the Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Orlando, which showed good whiplash and adult occupant protection scores. This compares with the previous Aveo which made headlines due a poor struck-

through two-star adult occupant result.

Some of the tested vehicles have obtained high scores for child occupant protection.

The Hyundai i40 and both VW Jetta and Golf Cabriolet scored 86%.

Michiel van Ratingen Euro NCAP secretary general said: “Euro NCAP evaluates child safety for each model tested and encourages car manufacturers to provide equally good protection for adults and children. We consider child protection as a very important part of the overall star rating and have plans to step up our requirements even more in the coming years.”

W h i l e m a ny c a r s

released continue to impress in the areas of adult and child occupant protection, pedestrian protection scores are generally still lagging behind.

The Opel Ampera,Audi A6 and Citroen DS5 only just meet Euro NCAP’s 2011 pedestrian requirements for a five-star rating. None of the cars in this current batch would meet the more stringent five-star requirement of 60% coming into effect in 2012.

A few car makers have already stepped up, showing much higher pedestrian scores such as the recently tested Ford Focus. Euro NCAP hopes that others will follow suit

soon.

Euro NCAP is encouraged to see important advanced safety systems being offered to consumers on more and more models. The largest model yet for Citroen’s premium sub-brand, the Citroen DS5, also achieved five stars. The car is fitted with the Citroen Localized Emergency Call, a PSA Peugeot-Citroen technology recognised in 2010 under Euro NCAP Advanced.

The new BMW X3 comes with Advanced eCall. This is a system that is able to automatically notify emergency services providing critical details of the crash event.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 19

RoadSigns Road Signs THE IRISH MX5 OWNERS CLUB TO HOLD THEIR FIRST EVENT: THE

Skoda now offers more 4x4 versions than any other car company and the Yeti 4x4 with its smooth DSG gearbox (above, right) gives an easy to drive option when road conditions get wet and icy. The entry price for a 4x4 Yeti is €29,545 before delivery charges with the DSG option adding an extra €2,000 to the price.

Skoda Yeti can tough it MICHAEL MORONEY put the 4x4 performance of the Yeti SUV

to the test in the difficult off-road conditions of Southern Russia KODA needed to take us to new limits to prove a point – that the Skoda Yeti can tough it out when it comes to off-road driving. The hills of Wicklow, Kerry or Connemara were not enough of a challenge, so we crossed Europe to the edge of Russia’s Black Sea and the city of Sochi from where we began a two-day Yeti journey into the Caucuses Mountains.

The holiday resort city of Sochi will be the base site for the 2014 Winter Olympics. It sits against the backdrop of the high Caucuses Mountains.

The area is mountainous with interesting off-road sections, while the winding roads are busy with construction machines, as Sochi re-creates itself to be a modern centre for the Winter Olympics. The road conditions through the mountain regions varied between poor and

S

SPECS: SKODA YETI 2.0 TDI 4X4 DSG Top speed: 177 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.6 sec Economy: 18.8 km/litre (5.3 l/100km or 53mpg) CO2 emissions: 155 g/ km Road Tax Band: C (€302) Euro NCAP Rating: 5 Star 2009 Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €30,000+

miserable.

Truck traffic dominated as the construction work is at full pace. Machines and trucks worked night and day to complete the huge transformation of sleepy villages into a world class winter sports and skiing centre.

The off-road areas were rough and hard on the cars, with steep declines of large rubble- type rocks and occasional river crossings – not the type of conditions that I expected to see the Yeti being comfortable in.

We took the Skoda Yeti

into the hills near Sochi.

This Yeti was powered by a 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine and fitted with the smooth DSG automatic gearbox. I believe that a similar and more costeffective Yeti with the same gearbox system and powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine will achieve similar performance in Irish conditions.

We travelled across some rough off-road conditions, with deep ruts and rubble trackways where the Yeti coped well.

The Yeti’s off-road ability is provided by a rearwheel-drive gearbox that delivers drive to the rear axle when conditions get difficult. The system uses what’s called a Haldex gearbox. It sends drive to the rear wheels once the front ones come under pressure.

The Yeti has a dashmounted button that engages the drive when you face off-road challenges. The system works

like the hill descent system that other 4x4’s offer.

When driving down steep hills the system automatically holds the Yeti with an ABS braking type of engagement. You simply take your foot off the brake pedal and let the system control your descent. Very soon you develop confidence in the Yeti’s off-road ability.

Popular

The 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine that powered our Russian Yetis is not popular on the Irish market where fuel prices are higher than in Russia.

In its favour this engine is very smooth and as powerful as the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel version more common here, even it if has lower torque figures.

For our conditions, the diesel power with its lower CO2 rating of 169g/km and a price tag of €33,395 would achieve similar offroad performance.

Torque was not an issue on the cars tested – they fared well in all road conditions and compensated for a lower torque with a smooth and lively onroad performance. The diesel powered versions have nearly double that level of torque and that’s why you get a higher trailer pulling capacity.

They also have lower CO2 ratings, down a band from the petrol powered models, giving a saving of almost €200 in annual road tax. They are also significantly more fuel efficient by at least one-third.

After two days of on and off road driving, the Yeti proved its off-road ability convincingly. I no longer need to be convinced about its offroad ability. It was just a long way to go to prove a point.

When we descended the rugged off-road test routes on the hills the cars took to the roads

without a rattle. That’s just what you expect and no less – that’s the standard set by established 4x4s on the market. Skoda’s Yeti has to meet that standard and it does. For everyday driving, you can expect the Yeti to be as smooth as any other car on the road.

Most people don’t think of the Skoda Yeti in the tough stakes – now I no longer need to be convinced. The Yeti with its off-road features can cope with the rough and the smooth that’s expected from modern 4x4s.

For Irish conditions, with diesel power, it’s at the affordable end of the market with 4x4 starting prices from €29,545, before delivery charges.

The smooth driving DSG gearbox adds about €2,000 more to the price and pushes the car into a higher Band C tax category. If you can afford to live with this, it’s so much worth it!

Irish MX5 Owners Club will hold their first event on Sunday September 25. It will be a Club Run for any MX5 / Eunos Roadster Mk 1 Mk 2 or Mk 3 Owners.

The run will start and finish in Leinster and will take in some of the most interesting roads and beautiful scenery in the area.

Final details will be announced for owners to make their own arrangements to join us.

The club is looking forward to good weather for their first event and meeting with many new members. For more information, contact David Sykes, of The Irish MX5 Owners CLUB on 0863359590 or email: theirishmx5 ownersclub@gmail. com

20 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS VW dealers’ €99 service offer VOLKSWAGEN dealers are offering a new service offer for all Volkswagen models, registered since 2007.

For just €99, a registered Volkswagen dealership will ensure your vehicle receive a service programme for €99 that includes, oil filter and change, free wash and vacuum, 34-point health check, upgrades check and a Volkswagen service stamp, which is only available from a registered

Volkswagen dealer.

All services carried out at a Volkswagen dealer include the Volkswagen 10-point Service Promise, exclusive to the Volkswagen Dealers Network. Among the items of the Service Promise, Volkswagen dealers will promise to match any like-for-like written quote, using Volkswagen Genuine Parts, within a 10km radius of any Volkswagen Service Centre. They will promise to fit wiper blades

and exterior bulbs bought from them free-of-charge.

They will also replace all exterior bulbs, including sidelights, headlights, brakelights, foglights and reverse and indicator bulbs. If you need interior, Xenon or LED lights replacing, they will provide a competitive quote for fitting those too.

They also promise to give your car a 34 point visual inspection through our Service Clinic absolutely free with no obliga-

tion. They will also check for any warrantable product enhancements recommended by Volkswagen and perform these freeof-charge.

The promise includes that every time you come for any job that takes over an hour in their workshops, they will wash and vacuum your car for free.

If the work takes less than an hour, but you’d still like it cleaned, just let them know and they will do that for free too.

The new Audi A8 hybrid combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor

Audi given green light to build the hybrid A8 AUDI has given the green light for the production of the A8 hybrid. The car is expected to be available on the Irish market in 2012.

The Audi A8 hybrid will combine 2.0-litre four-cylinder TFSI petrol engine with electric motor for zero emissions driving and in excess of 15.6km/ litre (44mpg). The new A8 hybrid will offer performance befitting its 245bhp and 480Nm outputs, despite delivering more sub-148g/km CO2 output and all-electric, emissions-free running at speeds of up to 100km.

The 2.0-litre TFSI engine, which has been modified in some areas,

generates an output of 211bhp and makes a 350 Nm torque peak available between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm. The combustion engine works together with a disc-shaped electric motor which generates 40 kW (54bhp) and 210 Nm. The permanent magnet electric motor is mounted in the space usually occupied by the torque converter in front of the modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission.

A multi-plate clutch that operates in an oil bath connects or disconnects the electric motor and the TFSI engine. The smooth and fast-shifting hybrid transmission guides

the torque to the front wheels. Audi claims that its wide gear spread contributes to the efficiency of the Audi A8 hybrid.

The Audi A8 hybrid will be capable of reaching 100km from rest in 7.7 seconds. The car will be able to drive at up to 100km/hr purely on electric power and has a range of up to 300km at a constant 60km/hr.

The car will have a choice of three modes.

The ‘EV’ setting gives priority to the electric drive, while the ‘D’ option efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. The ‘S’ mode and the tiptronic gate place the emphasis on optimal

acceleration.

The hybrid saloon has five operating states, with the TFSI engine alone, with electric drive only or in hybrid mode; recuperation and boosting are also possible. Two displays show the driver all operating modes in detail.

Audi claims that the Audi A8 hybrid will be one of the lightest cars in its category. Its ASF (Audi Space Frame) body is made almost entirely of aluminium, with ultrahigh-strength steel used only for the B-pillars to optimise rigidity. It is roughly 40% lighter than a comparable steel construction.

1 September 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS REPORT: WORLDWIDE FIGURES Sales have stabilised at Harvey Norman HARVEY Norman has announced its worldwide sales from their Australian, New Zealand, Slovenia, Ireland and Northern Ireland business totalled €4.45b ($6.18b AUD) for the 12 months ended 30 June 2011. When compared to sales for the same period in 2009, this was an increase of 1.7%.

The Republic of Ireland operation managed to stabilise sales with only a slight decrease of 0.2% for the same period, while sales in Northern Ireland increased by 3.2%. Both Irish divisions grew sales for the second half (Jan – Jun) against last year, with the Republic of Ireland operation growing sales in Q3 by 1.9% and Q4 by 4.6%.

Encouraging

“It was really a year of two halves for us, with sales flat before Christmas, and then some encouraging growth in the six months to June,” said Blaine Callard, chief executive of the Irish Operation.

“Consumer sentiment continues to be very weak, and shows no signs of recovering soon.

Big ticket retail sales in furniture and electronics have been hit the hardest, so it’s about getting a bigger slice of a smaller pie.

Strategy

“We will continue to improve our operation, investing in our people, our service and our stores. The strategy for us is to focus on growing marketshare. Revenue growth in the second half is very positive for us against such a difficult economic backdrop.”

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

INTEREST RATE WORRIES Q – The ECB rate is forecast to go up c. 0.75% over the next nine months. My current margin is 1.1% which will mean the total rate in nine months’ time will be 3.1%. I am currently paying interest only and my 25-year €235,000 mortgage reverts to a capital and interest repayment schedule in nine months’ time also.

Twenty years will still remain on the term at that point. I don’t think I can afford the new repayment. Should I ask for an extension on Award-winning architect, energy specialist and TV personality Duncan Stewart and B&Q Ireland’s, Luke Dolan

the interest-only term ? Jack - Churchtown

RETAIL: B&Q AND STEWART ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

A – By asking to extend your interest only pay-

Helping you save energy and money B&Q Ireland has announced a partnership with award-winning architect, energy specialist and TV personality, Duncan Stewart.

The partnership will see Duncan making it easier for people to improve their home’s energy efficiency, save money on their energy bills and make homes more comfortable.

Duncan Stewart will work with B&Q Ireland to offer his expert advice and experience and will provide regular tips and advice through in-store communication and online at www.ener gysaverscheme.ie

The partnership marks the launch of B&Q Ireland’s campaign to help householders start saving energy and money. It will also include the official launch of the Energy Saver Centre at Liffey Valley on September 7.

This will be a one-stop energy shop, offering expert advice, a free home energy audit, DIY energy saving products and fully guaranteed installations of energy measures such as internal / external insulation, boiler upgrades and solar panels Energy specialist, Duncan Stewart said: “I am passionate about helping people recognise that

there is a lot that we can do to make our homes warmer and more energy efficient.

“With energy bills continuing to rise and our homes becoming harder to heat in winter, there are simple measures that we can all take to help save energy and save costs. Most energy upgrades pay themselves back overtime, increase long-term comfort and increase the value of our homes.

“I am delighted to be working with B&Q to offer advice and expertise on this area and hope that it gives people the confidence to consider

making their homes more energy efficient.”

Luke Dolan, B&Q Ireland, added: “In September, we will officially open our Energy Saver Centre in Liffey Valley where customers can come and speak to our energy expert and our team of fully trained energy advisors, who will offer them real advice and guidance on how to make their homes more energy efficient, comfortable and ultimately save them money ” Duncan Stewart will be at B&Q Liffey Valley on September 7 to talk to customers and provide advice.

Counting the cost of college WHETHER you are a first time student, or returning after the summer break, your finances may not be top of your to-do list. College is expensive, whether you’re living at home or renting, you’ll find your money disappearing quickly when you’re on a tight budget. The National Consumer Agency’s (NCA) have five steps on www.itsyourmoney. ie to help you manage your money and make sure you have enough to last the academic year.

The steps cover everything from

finding accommodation to dayto-day expenses, such as food and travel tickets.

Our budgeting tips will help you make sure you balance the books all the way to the end of the college year. We also have some top money saving tips to get the most from your bank balance and with everything from second hand shopping to discount sites, it’s definitely worth a look. Try out the Economiser (www.economiser.ie) the NCA’s online tool to help you

minimise household bills.

Opening a student bank account may not be the most exciting prospect, but making sure you choose the right account for you is important. Our student cost comparisons on www.itsyourmoney.ie will help you to compare student current accounts, credit cards and loans across the market.

Our money management steps are here to help you make the most of your college experience without stressing about your cash!

ments and withhold the capital element, you are only kicking the can down the road. Say you were given a three year interest-only extension, it means that your capital repayments when you do resume in three years’ time will have to pay ALL that capital over a shorter period – 17 years.

Currently, you are paying € 460.21 each month and in nine months’ time, if the interest rates rise by 0.75%, this payment will be € 607.08 – an increase of € 146.87 per month. If you pay back the capital also, this payment will go to € 1,325.77 per month.

If you assume you will be given a moratorium on the capital for three years paying that € 607.08 per month, you will then be required to repay your € 235,000 over 17 years costing you € 1,493.90 per month – over € 1,000 per month increase on your current interest-only payment.

What you need to do is budget – work out exactly what your income and your expenditure are.

Property prices are not going up any time soon and you need to work out a plan that is effectively going to repay your mortgage and allow you a certain dignity of lifestyle. You could negotiate extending the term but you may lose your tracker rate by doing so – this should be your last resort and you should try to maintain that tracker at all costs.

In the meantime, cut your own costs if you can or earn more and query all expenses. Best of luck.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

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22 GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL GazetteFestival A top-notch weekend getaway in County Mayo

Dunderry House

The Spirit of Folk Festival to take over the lush Meath countryside with music and other family events WITH boutique festivals popping up all over the place, the Spirit of Folk Festival, being held in the lush County Meath countryside from September 23 to 25, looks set to stand apart from all others, with a plethora of exciting events to keep all the family happy.

With an emphasis on community-based activities, as well as a stellar musical line up of folk legends, this boutique festival is gearing up to be a treat for all the senses and promises to be a soothing way to end the festival season.

Seventies folk heroes, Dr Strangely Strange, who have just been added to the line up, will take to the special Magnakata stage along with Gay Woods of Steeleye Span, Fiach, Lisa O’Neill, Rob Cunningham, The Young Folk, Owensie, Hot Sprockets and St John the Gambler.

The weekend will kick off with a lively Ceili Mor on Friday and guests are encouraged to bring their own musical instruments and join in the fun.

Event organisers have promised a weekend to rival Bilbo Baggins’ birthday bash with an endless list of unconventional activities including archery, ancient astronomy, falconry, battle re-enactments, storytelling in a candle lit cairn, burning effigies, medieval games, fireworks, community games, shamanism as well as a Mind, Body and Soul area.

Revellers can indulge themselves in the many holistic treatments that will be on offer including Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Acupuncture as well as a spot of either Kundalini or Laughing Yoga for those who want a meaningful festival awakening.

Campers will not have far to walk to the main festival area and those counting the pennies will be thrilled to know they can bring along their own tipple. However, lots of delicious food will be available on site.

Ticket Details - €95 for weekend camping pass, €59 for Saturday Only. Kids under 12 go free.

Tickets are available online from tickets.ie or directly from Dunderry Park by calling 046 90 74455.

JESSICA MAILE

AS you drive west across the country, the flat scenery of the midlands gives way to the dramatic hills and mountains of Mayo and it’s then you know you’re in for a great weekend.

Arriving in Westport, you can not help but be delighted by the colourful pubs, varied shops and many restaurants in this lovely town. Shops like Foxford Woollen Mills and Carraig Dunne have some of the best of Irish goods on offer and there are restaurants from Chinese to Indian and traditional pub food to Italian Standing in prime location is the Castlecourt Hotel, which is an excellent location to spend all of your time or to use as a base to visit the delights that Connaught has to offer, including Croagh Patrick, if you feel daring.

I have read many a

review about this hotel and I was not disappointed. The friendliness of all the staff is definitely what makes this hotel such a success.

The most amazing thing about staying there was the fact that you were not yet another figure on a corporate hotel chain’s balance book. This is a large, family-run hotel,

and spacious and the fourposter bed was a unique sleeping experience.

The hotel bar was a pleasant way to end an evening, either outside in the cosy armchairs or inside at Petie Joe’s Bar, as locals and guests mingled as the live music played away and conversation filled the air.

This hotel also offers

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‘The Castlecourt Hotel is well worth the trip across the country to experience the delights of the West of Ireland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that you forget is within easy driving distance.’

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and that is a unique thing in itself. You can feel the warmth and attention to detail that you would expect from a small hotel or B&B. The bedroom was grand

a great choice for eating with the informal dining at the Courtyard Bistro and the elegant Orchard restaurant. The food was of top quality and the staff always ready to help

The hotel is in a prime location within the town of Westport

make your dining experience one to remember.

The Castlecourt Hotel also has an excellent leisure centre, the C Club, which includes a 20-metre pool and kiddies’ splash pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, a fully-equipped gymnasium and even a hair salon.

But the real secret of a stay at the Castlecourt Hotel is the spa. If you still have that tension from work or you ache from a days’ adventure exploring the Mayo countryside, then spending time at Spa Sula is the best way to let all that stress and tiredness just melt away.

The choice of steam room or sauna allows you to sweat away all of your troubles and pains only to bring you back to life with the amazing choice of hot and cold showers.

The Caribbean rain shower cooled the heat of the sauna, making me ready to explore the salt room.

After all of the indoor treatments, it was a refreshing and unique treat to sit in the outside jacuzzi, which is in its own private grotto. The warmth of those bubbles were soothing as I filled my lungs with that pure cool country air.

I treated myself to the Sundari Abhyanga Massage, which is a full-body, oil massage that deeply relaxed my tired muscles but also rejuvenated me

The Castlecourt Hotel, in

at the same time.

After my massage, I lingered in the soft music and ambient light of the relaxation suite, which allowed me to drift away from reality and made me wonder if it was safe to drive or operate machinery after my time in Spa Sula.

So, all in all, the Castlecourt Hotel is well worth the trip across the country to experience the delights of the West of Ireland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that you forget is within easy driving distance.

The staff and facilities of this Wesport hotel will leave your mind full of happy memories and have you planning your return trip as soon as you get home.

For more information on the Castlecourt Hotel for a Mayo getaway, go to www.castlecourthotel.ie

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Joe Walsh Tours to operate private charter flights to Leinster rugby games for 2012 season JOE Walsh Tours is the official tour operator for Leinster Rugby and will be operating private charter flights with Cityjet to all away games in both the Heineken Cup and RaboDirect PRO12 competitions of the season 2011/2012.

The tour operator offers both flight only and full package options, which include hotel accommodation and coach transfers to and from your hotel and the grounds.

Fans can follow the RaboDirect PRO12 new season matches on the official Leinster Rugby Team charter from as little as €129 inclusive, which includes return flight, checked in luggage and all taxes – free match ticket for all RaboDirect games is also included in the price.

Book early to secure a seat on the official Leinster Rugby team flight and share the thrill and excitement with the Boys in Blue. Fixtures are Ospreys v Leinster - September 1; Scarlets v Leinster - September 23; Edinburgh v Leinster October 27; Cardiff Blues v Leinster – January 6; Glasgow Warriors v Leinster – February 24 and Newport Gwent Dragons v Leinster - May 4.

Heineken Cup staying in a three-star hotel for the Montpellier Hérault v Leinster Rugby for one night costs from €444 per person on November 12, 2011, or four-star from €474 per person.

For bookings and further information, call Gill on 01 2410888 or email gill.osullivan@ joewalshtours.ie, or visit www.joewalshtours. ie/leinster Westport, Co Mayo, is a large, family-run hotel with an attention to detail that you would expect from a small hotel or B&B

It’s a berry good month for a Shelbourne Hotel extravaganza THE Shelbourne Hotel is berry-focused this August, with a delicious range of berrythemed cocktails and a Very Berry Afternoon Tea. The special afternoon tea will include delicacies such as mixed berry macaroons, blackberry financier, strawberry tart, blueberry muffin and raspberry chocolate moelleux.

The Very Berry extravaganza continues in the hotel’s Number 27 Bar, with a selection of delectable cocktails, each showcasing a particular berry. From blackberry fruitini to raspberry mochatini to vodka bramble, there’s a wide selection of berry-based potions available.

Throw in an overnight stay with full Irish breakfast in the morning and a champagne afternoon tea for two in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, from €232 per room. Book online at www.TheShelbourne.ie.

The Orchard restaurant

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Petie Joe’s Bar

The welcoming lobby

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24 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Bastien and Bastienne MOZART takes centre-stage at The Mill Theatre, Dundrum, with this production of his one-act comedy, written when the musical maestro was just 12-years-old, in 1768. His dramatic love story shows that the path of true love never runs smoothly, and certainly not for Bastien and Bastienne ... Presented by Opera Theatre Company, this production is sung in English, with music direction and piano accompaniment by Andrew Synott. Soprano, Nicola Mulligan, and tenor, Dean Power, take the title roles in this 45-minute show. The production runs on Sunday, September 4, with admission at €18/€15.

Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival BUILDING on the massive success of the festival with book and arts lovers, the Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival returns to The Mill Theatre to delight once again. Running at The Mill for two nights as part of the overall festival, the theatre will play host to two playwrights.

On Wednesday, September 7, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, Patrick Ness and Meg Rosoff will be in conversation with Dr Padraic Whyte. For ages 13+, and priced at €3 admission, Patrick and Meg are two of the most critically-acclaimed and popular authors writing for teenagers today.

Then, on Thursday, September 8, Roddy Doyle will guest at the Festival, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Suitable for ages 9+, and priced at €3, Roddy’s talk will see him discuss his new children’s book, Greyhound of a Girl.

For further details, see http://www.mountainstosea.ie, and http://www.milltheatre.ie/.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival CONTINUING the city-wide love of books and the arts, the Mountains to Sea DLR Festival has a wide range of events taking place at its Dun Laoghaire base and surrounds, including the following events – and many more ...

The DLR Literary Tour, on Sunday, September 4, will take in some of the literary sights and points of interest in the DLR region, home to a surprising number of Ireland’s literary greats. Assembling at Blackrock Dart Station at 10.45am, some familiar faces (and voices) will guide walkers around the area.

Also on Sunday, September 4, younger readers will warm to the blood-chilling tales in An Audience With Darren Shan. The horribly talented writer is the world’s most popular horror writer for children, and will enthrall with his insightful talk at 3pm.

On Wednesday, September 7, The Pavilion will welcome acclaimed US novelist Robert Coover to deliver the annual Beckett Address. A master of writing, which he also teaches, Coover credits Beckett with the revelation that it was no longer possible to “go back and write another 19th century novel”, and his address promises to be a must-see – or must-hear – for Beckett fans. The Beckett Address will be delivered at 8pm.

For further details, see www.paviliontheatre.ie/.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Noah & The Tower Flower BALLYMUN is the setting for a comic production on its only Irish dates before transferring to a New York run. Noah and Natalie begin to fall in love – but can they leave their pasts behind, and look to the future, together?

Highly-praised by critics, and winner of a number of awards, Noah & The Tower Flower plays nightly at 8pm on Friday, September 2 and Saturday. September 3, with admission priced at €12.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way LAST this week, but definitely not least, My Way, by Garvan Gallagher, is running at Draiocht until November, and is a superb collection of thoughtful studies concerning fashion, aging and self image. The memorable range of photographs and video pieces can be seen on the ground floor gallery.

For further details, see www.draiocht.ie/.

Sally (Emma Roberts) and George (Freddie Highmore) have to learn how to navigate the complexities of high school life as they grow older

Gets by, well enough Kate thinks that there are certainly worse films about teens out there, finding The Art of Getting By to be fairly diverting Q KATE CROWLEY

WHAAAAAT? A critic, criticised? I feel no less astonished than the portly workhouse foreman in Oliver Twist, facing an upstart in an unexpectedly gruelling situation.

However, criticised I was, for my review of the latest Spy Kids, last week.

(No complaints thus far over One Day, which leads me to conclude everyone else finds it as equally insipid as I.) Last week, I gave Spy Kids a One Star rating, yet have since been told, in no uncertain terms, that it was “brilliant”, and must thus amend my score to a Five Star grade, instead.

After all, much like portly workhouse foremen, film reviewers are both mystified by, and intimidated by, knee-high whippersnappers, especially those who discover you don’t like the same films that they do.

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Art of Getting By +++ (12A) 83 mins Director: Gavin Wiesen Starring: Freddie Highmore, Emma Roberts, Sasha Speilberg, Sam Robards, Youth Ishoos ...

OUR VERDICT: CERTAINLY not wishing to patronise any younger readers, Kate nevertheless suggests that this could appeal particularly to “tweens”, thanks to covering the complexities of life on the edge of adulthood, and how boys and girl friends may have to face the awkwardness of trying to be boyfriends and girlfriends instead. It’s a nice turn from Freddie Highmore.

So, Spy Kids, I salute you, as you are indeed brilliant (and not at all the awful mess I hinted at, last week).

Small children thus appeased, I turn my attention next to older children – these “tweens” I keep hearing about – who are likely to like The Art of Getting By. Freddie Highmore stars as George, something of an unfocused high school slacker with a talent for art – although he never finished his work.

Enter Sally (Emma Roberts), another high school kid following her

own mind, and, even though she seems to be quite different to George – having some rich friends, for starters – they get along okay.

George and Sally start hanging out more and more, despite the distractions of different friends and interests, but, as George falls further behing in his schoolwork, Sally’s interests are piqued in an artist.

Not quite purely platonic friends, George’s life seems to get more and more confused, as his mother and stepfather are clearly having

problems at home, which doesn’t sit too well on our fatalistic, lovelorn antihero.

Troubled home, failing at school, mixed-up feelings, a girl friend who isn’t a girlfriend ... Boy oh boy, George is having it tough.

Inevitably, the friends can’t carry on as things are, and, with Sally seemingly lost to another, and realising that he needs to focus on getting on with his life – not least to help support his mother – George has to face up to just catching up with school work, in preparation for whatever’s next.

The only thing he hasn’t really prepared for is what Sally really means to him – and what he may really mean to her ...

Boy meets girl. Boy loses girl. Boy ... well, I don’t think I’d shock many readers with how this film turns out. Casbalanca, it ain’t – but what it does, it does well enough,

I guess, and seems to be at least slightly anchored in faintly believable late teenage life.

Slightly unner ved by my knee-high score accuser, I’ve perhaps been less demanding than usual with this film, which isn’t the worst tween film I’ve ever seen.

It’ll certainly get you by on a lazy afternoon or evening at the cinema.

And now for something completely different. If anyone has a large trail of breadcrumbs available, I’d like to use them to try and drag The Tempest into sight, as it continues its lonely lurching somewhere out on the cold, windswept plains of Unreleased Land, despite being finished eons ago.

After all, who wouldn’t like to see Helen Mirren, Russell Brand and Alfred Molina romping around in a Luvvied-up film of Shakespeare’s tale?

On second thoughts, perhaps not ...

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Meet Super Mario’s dad SHANE DILLON

PREVIOUSLY, I briefly touched on creativity found in gaming – and there are few things that sum up “creativity” in gaming than the legendary games designer, Shigeru Miyamoto.

“Who?”, many, if not most Gazette readers may ask, as the beaming gentleman to the right could easily walk down O’Connell Street without a flicker of recognition.

And yet, for decades, hundreds of millions of children – and a similar number of adults – around the world have grown up with his most famous creation – Super Mario.

Indeed, Mario is just one of a number of iconic gaming characters, and moments, that Miyamoto has been directly respon-

Another weebyte A Jobs that’s now going ...

WITH apologies to those who may well think that I’m in thrall to Apple this week, it’s hard not to comment on Steve Jobs’ stepping down as CEO of Apple, late last week.

Few would have thought a mere decade or so ago that Apple – then very much an also-ran company, languishing far behind PCs in uptake and interest – would have stormed into the public eye as they have, let alone predicted its near-vertical rise in value and fortune.

As such, Jobs’ vision, drive and determination has done much to push gaming to the fore on smartphones, and in the public eye.

Despite his departure, it’s likely that Apple will continue as a major force in driving mobile gaming.

sible for throughout his career, to date.

To many, the 59-yearold is Nintendo; with the global company’s fortunes, future and fun directly tied to the charismatic designer.

Born in a quiet corner of Japan, Miyamoto spent his childhood living in what sounds like a fairly idyllic way – wandering through forests and exploring caves, his curiosity and spirit of adventure leading him to soak up the world around him, wondering what could lie ahead over the next hill or around the next corner.

These are traits that gamers will instantly recognise in his greatest works – those games in the Mario or equally long-running Zelda titles – where exploration, fun, creative thinking and

positive reinforcement are their own rewards, cementing Nintendo’s reputation as gaming’s most family-friendly and focused company.

Miyamoto’s role as Nintendo’s “secret weapon” long since diversified from designing games into being involved with the company’s new platforms and consoles.

From the Wii to the recently-launched 3DS, Miyamoto has been both the public face of the company’s changing fortunes and directions, as well as a solid figurehead for the business world to get behind.

After all, if there’s one thing that Miyamoto seems to understand more than anyone else on the planet, it’s what makes a game work, and be fun – making him the

Bytesandpieces Apple’s plan to keep growing NOW firmly established as a key player in the gaming sector, Apple’s IOS tank looks set to roll even deeper into the global gaming landscape.

It’s all thanks to the flurry of media speculation since late last week, with the announcement by “key insider figures” that Apple is planning to release a “cheap” iPhone, much the way as it did with the iPod Nano.

What sounds obstensibly like a bid to produce a more affordable iPhone to target lucrative markets in China, and other mass-market economies, would also have a very direct impact on mobile gaming penetration. Watch this space – the iFun is going to get a lot more interesting ...

A patently interesting court case Legendary Nintendo figure, Shigeru Miyamoto

Willy Wonka of gaming.

Today, with Apple making vast inroads into gaming as a publisher, there’s a lot of talk of Nintendo being under pressure to crack the portable gam-

ing smartphone market, by developing a similar distribution model.

One thing’s for sure – having Super Mario’s dad on your side couldn’t hurt any company ...

PEELING off yet another Apple story this week, many gamers, tech wizards and lawyers alike are following the company’s dealings with Lodsys, a Texas-based company that recently launched a lawsuit claiming that Apple, and many other big companies, violate a number of its patents.

Nothing has yet gone to court, but the issue of technology patents remains an interesting potential thorn for a wide range of games developers and publishers to keep an eye out for ...

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26 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

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1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

SUMMER HEROES:

August’s nominees for Dublin Sports Awards are announced Page 29

RETRO RUNNING: BLACKROCK NATIVE SET TO TURN ATHLETICS AROUND IN PARK

Doherty taking a backward step to go forth sport@gazettegroup.com

If you find yourself in Fitzherbert Park and you think things are running in reverse, you might find that you are exactly right.

Blackrock resident, Garret Doherty, is an exponent and champion of retro running, the skill of actually running backward. With practice, you can become quite fast, and Garret has medals from the World Retro Championships to prove it.

Gazette Sport asked Doherty why retro running was so popular.

“Retro running is the most beneficial exercise in the world. If you go forward all the time, you’re using all the same muscles all the time. Hence half runners are injured at some time in their careers.

“If you go backward, it’s lower impact, because you’re landing on your toes and it’s like dancing, that’s why it’s so much

fun. It burns 30% more calories, as you’re using a different set of muscles, it improves your balance, coordination and peripheral vision.

The association with the reverse athletic event stems from a childhood training exercise.

“My father was an underage soccer coach, and he had me and my brothers running backward on the beach at Five Fingers Strand, near Mallon Head, when we were

Donegal man Garret Doherty is leading a revolution in running and training

younger. Years later, that came back to me in the park in Fairview, I started running backward, and people were really intrigued by it.”

There is an international aspect to retro running, and Doherty took part in the world championships which took place last year in Austria, its sixth year.

“I won a gold and two silver medals at the championships, and I took part in the 3k and 10k races in the same day. There are all the same track distances as you’d find in any other international track events.”

Doherty has also raced closer to home, and has a goal this month in the

Dublin half-marathon.

“I ran the Dublin Marathon backward in 2009, and last year I did it halfbackward, half-forwards.

Now I’m planning on running to break the backward half-marathon record in Phoenix Park on September 17. The record is 1 hour 35 minutes, and I think I have a chance.

“I run a class once a week in Fitzherbert Park, if people are interested.

It’s really fun, it’s a proper workout, and your back and hamstrings get a break from the pounding they get when you run normally.”

For more information, log on to runnerretro. com.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Rebecca Foley, Eamon Fennell and Cathrine McCusker

Football camp

James McCarthy was able to pass on his experience to the club members

James McCarthy’s coaching side

Ravens wrap up training

INGAL Ravens GAA club last week hosted the final week of their summer camp programme with some special visitors from the Dublin senior football team.

The camps have seen the likes of Paddy Christie, Eamon Fennell, Gerry Seavers, James McCarthy, Eoghan O’Gara, Paul Flynn and Stephen O’Shaughnessy grace the fields of Rowlestown, and everyone who was involved had a lot of fun, as well as learning a lot of skills that will stand them in good stead in the coming seasons.

F

The camps put young players through their paces

Paul Conlon, Dublin’s right corner-back with friends at Fingal Ravens’ camp

Eamon Fennell and friends

Paul with the Gallagher brothers

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - AUGUST NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Pender named top coach at Homeless World Cup

MONTH

HANNAH TYRRELL

GARY THOMPSON

STEPHEN MCNALLY

ROUND Towers’ football star Tyrrell has been instrumental in the successes of both her club side’s intermediate ladies cup victory and in the successes of the Dublin ladies team in the Aisling McGing competition this term.

SWORDS must seem a million miles away but Thompson is far from homesick as he takes on the tracks of Japan in the Formula 3 competition, taking the podium recently to become the first Irishman to win a race on the Asian circuit.

THE Dunboyne based Orwell Wheelers rider struck gold in Italy when he came first in the European Masters’ Track Championships, his first international competition and his first-ever competition on an indoor track.

LUCAN CYCLING CLUB

CASTLEKNOCK GAA

DSDAC LADIES

THE road and track race club found a medal streak when they produced a string of outstanding performances to claim gold medals at both the elite and youth track team national championships last month.

THE dual codes at the Somerton club converged in success recently, with the senior sides in football and hurling achieving or closing in on promotion to the intermediate divisions of the Dublin leagues.

THE southside athletic club’s ladies team claimed a famous victory in Tullamore last month when they claimed the Premier Women’s divisional title at the Woodies’ DIY National Finals.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s August sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

We’re delighted to once again be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dub-

lin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of well-known, and some, less prominent, sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and gives an indication of the diversity of sporting commit-

ment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

IRELAND’S Homeless World Cup soccer coach, Mick Pender, was named as Fair Play coach of the tournament after the tournament, held in Paris, came to an end last week.

Ireland finished eleventh out of the 48 teams involved, ending their run with an impressive 10-4 victory against England. The Irish quickly found their feet and stormed into a two-goal lead, before they were pegged back to 4-3 at the break.

The second half saw Ireland turn on the style, scoring some excellent goals and in the end they ran out easy winners.

“It’s been a long and tiring ten days but the memories of the performances and the friends made will linger long in the players’ minds long after this tournament is over,” said Sean Kavanagh of Team Ireland.

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Swords judo back in training for new season

Rally round the flag: Barrable on form in Czech event LOCAL motor rally star Robert Barrable, in his Skoda Fabia S2000 with co-driver Damien Connolly, finished 13th overall on the Barum Czech Rally last weekend.

The rally is a counting round of the 2011 Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) and was Robert’s second time competing on a round of this year’s IRC. Robert lined up alongside a top class entry of over 120 competing crews, including 22 latest specification S2000 machines.

ATHLETICS: MIXED BAG OF RESULTS FOR LOCAL ATHLETES

SWORDS Judo Club are starting back into full training on Tuesday, September 6.

The club is looking forward to getting straight back into business, with the Leinster Open and the national kyu competition coming along very soon.

The club is always looking for new members, and anyone interested in taking part should see www.swordsjudo.com for more information.

The club are located at Xtreme Fitness at Unit D3, Airside Business Park, Swords.

Aer Lingus set Swords RFC to hold 2011 call for new AGM in ALSAA recruits AER Lingus Swimming Club are set to hold their 2011 AGM in the Tailteam Room at ALSAA in Thursday, September 29 at 8.30pm.

Notices for motion are to be made in writing, signed by the proposer and seconder and should be forwarded to the club secretary in advance of the meeting.

In addition, the club are looking for volunteers to put themselves forward for places on the managerial committee for the 2011/12 season.

For more information on the club and the AGM, see www. alswimclub.com

SWORDS RFC’s dedicated pitch at Holywell will play host to the club’s first youth rugby session of the new season on Sunday, September 4.

With that in mind, the club have extended an open invitation to any potential players and coaches who may be looking to get into rugby.

No experience is necessary as the club will arrange coaching courses for all its minis’ coaches and will provide guidance through its network of experienced coaches and referees.

For more information, see www.swordsrfc.com or contact the club at info@ swordsrfc.com

Laura Costello from Skerries, left, in action in the girls’ Under-14 100m race at the Community Games finals recently

Games comes to end sport@gazettegroup.com

THERE were a mixed bag of results for local competitors in the final weekend of the HSE Community Games National Finals which took place recently, following three weekends of sporting and cultural activities.

North county athletics were well represented in the finals, but there was to be no medals for the girls’ Under-12 relay team from Lusk, who placed second in their semifinal, but not compete with Bantry of Cork.

Andrew Coscoran

from Balbriggan, however, claimed silver in the boys’ under-16 1,500m final, losing out to David Kavanagh from Kerry in the final.

Malahide’s equivalent boys’ team ran well but were unable to place better than fourth in their semi-final.

Karl O’Callaghan from Malahide also performed well, finishing fourth in his semi-final of the boys Under-10 200m race.

The top performer on the track from Dublin was to be found in the Under-8 boys’ 60m race was Moses Ikpefua, from Knockmitten, who

won his heat, semi-final and final to claim a welldeserved gold medal.

Aloisa King from Jobstown claimed silver medal in the girls’ 900m walk for Under-13s, beaten to the gold by Dearbhaile Beirne from Leitrim.

There was a bronze medal in the girls under10 200m when Sophie English from Navan Road claimed the third place after an impressive run.

Weather conditions were excellent and helped in the enjoyment and atmosphere of the weekend.

Competitors were determined to give their best and many new talents emerged from the vast number taking part in the various team and individual competitions.

Killeen and the HSE Community Games set out to break the world record for the number taking part in the 100m sack race.

The target to beat was 2095 and, while the world record was not broken, it resulted in an evening of fun, excitement and comradeship for all who took part.

Approximately 3,000 children participated

in a number of sporting activities with Dublin represented in athletics, track and field, basketball and camogie.

They were supported by over 600 volunteers and organisers, as well as family and friends, who came from all corners of the country to offer their support and encouragement to all of the children participating.

Over 200,000 young people from all over Ireland took part in the HSE Community Games qualifiers and finals every year, making it an essential part of the Irish summer.

1 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

ALL-IRELAND: LOCALS PLAY PART IN FINE EFFORT

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS WELL done to the Dublin senior

The club will be running a Founda-

and minor footballers who nar-

tion Award coaching programme on

rowly beat Donegal and Galway to

Friday September 23 and 30 at 7pm,

advance to the All-Ireland final.

and will be followed by some practi-

Members looking a ticket for the

cal work on Saturday, October 1 at

final can now apply at the bar.

10am. For more, contact padraig.

The club are currently organis-

durkan.gpo.dublin@gaa.ie

ing a celebration weekend from

Diary Date: Football and Hurling

September 23 to 25. It will include

Academy for boys and girls from

our now famous colours night and

four to six years will recommence

big match entertainment. Anyone

on Saturday, September 10 at 10am

with ideas or willing to help please

in the club ground. All welcome. For

contact jarlath.lennon@gmail.com

more information contact Padraig

Hard luck to Niamh and the Dub-

Durkan on 087 2562965.

lin U-16 girls who were beaten in

Social football is back up and

the All-Ireland final on Saturday

running every Friday at 8pm on the

by Kerry. A full match report is on

All-Weather pitch.

www.dublinladiesgaelic.ie.

Looking to become a GAA Coach?

There was no winner of the lotto, this week’s jackpot will be €2,640.

FINGAL RAVENS Dublin Under-16s local representatives put on a strong showing in the second hal. Picture: GAApics.com

Young Jackies denied All-Ireland by Kerry LADIES U-16 C’SHIP Kerry Dublin

4-10 2-13

sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS’ Niamh R ickard produced a fine performance for the Dublin U-16 ladies footballers but it was not quite enough for the side to claim back-toback All-Ireland titles at this level.

With a quarter of the match to go, her side had produced a remarkable comeback to level their game with Kerry and leave the tie in the balance.

But the Kingdom finished the stronger of the sides to end the junior Jackies’ dreams of taking the title back to the capital once again.

Kerr y had opened proceedings in style, putting a goal and two points on the board before the girls in blue registered their first score, a point from a free in the 9th minute from

Ballyboden St Enda’s Maria McGrath.

Almost immediately, McGrath repeated the feat within the minute with her second converted free.

Immediately from the kick out, Dublin were back on top of the Kerry defence, and there were no fewer than three shots on target, which bounced off a series of Kerry players and the woodwork to deny the Dubs a first goal.

Niamh Rickard did get on the end of a Kerry clearance, and salvaged a point out of the melee.

From the next passage of play, a free to Kerry was taken and converted by Leanne Mangan to leave just the goal in it, and the Kingdomettes stepped up the pace.

The Dubln backs held firm, however, and no score was registered on either side for some seven minutes, but Kerry did put a few attempts

wide, until they sent in a rocket of a shot which keeper Emily Rheinish deflected over the bar.

Undeterred, Kerr y tried again and Nicole O’Connor got the credit for a goal that just rolled over the line.

Points from McGrath and Eabha Rutledge did briefly reduce the margin, but Kerry were not finished, and added another goal before the interval for a 3-7 to 0-5 lead.

The wide margin proved a prelude to a sublime Dublin spell early in the second half as McGrath led the charge back into the tie.

She pointed from a free just 30 seconds into the half, before getting on the end of the ensuing kick-out and pointed another from play soon after.

Her speculative effort then dropped under the crossbar while another score and one from Stephanie Adams con-

tinued the ascendancy.

Captain Carla Rowe came bursting from the half back line and in a series of quick passes found herself with a clear shot which flew the green flag once again.

The Dubs were on a roll. Two more points in the space of a minute, both from Rickard levelled the score with 14 minutes left on the clock.

The Kingdom girls had made their first point of the half just before the Dublin goal and got another from a free and went one up.

But, unfortunately, Dublin’s inspiration dried up, and nothing more came the Blues way until the 23rd minute, when they registered two more points from Castleknock’s Leah Mullins and Kilmacud midfielder, Lamb.

But wily Kerry added another goal and a point to seal their victory and the 2011 title.

THE annual duck race and a cross-

of our club, we send our condo-

country challenge for all age groups

lences to his family. We also would

will be held on Sunday, September

like to send our condolences to

25 at Kinsella’s Bridge, Lispopple.

the extended family of Andy Fitz-

Please get your sponsorship cards

patrick.

from your mentors.

Well done to the Dublin minor and

Senior team play Erin’s Isle this

senior football teams on reaching

Friday at home at 7pm in a chal-

the All Ireland finals. Please text

lenge game.

your ticket orders to Desy on 087

Our juvenile camp last week was

995 7429 ASAP, but please be aware

a great success, thanks to our GPO

that these orders can’t be guaran-

Paul and Carl, also thanks to Alan

teed.

and Mick for organising the camp.

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Johnny Cawneen, an honorary member

Committee meeting this Thursday at 8.30pm in Kettle’s Hotel.

Please remember to suppor t your club lotto each week.

ST FINIAN’S THE juvenile fixtures resume this

tickets should give their names in to

weekend after the summer break.

the clubhouse ASAP.

Check out the noticeboard for details.

Parents - we urgently need bodies to cover Saturday afternoon 1

All-Ireland final tickets: The club

to 6pm for bag-packing in Dunnes

are holding a limited 300 ticket draw

Stores. As U-14s are no longer per-

at €5 a ticket. There are two prizes —

mitted to do this, we need as many

Two premium tickets to senior hurl-

parents, older players and mentors

ing final, and two premium tickets to

as possible. There are matches for

senior football final. First name out

this age group on Saturday after-

has choice of which prize. Tickets are

noons hence the difficulty.

on sale from the clubhouse office and

We are there on September 2 and

the draw will take place next Friday,

3, and this is a vital fundraiser for

September 2 in the Community Cen-

the club. Contact either Ann (087

tre. With Dublin in the final, these

6109452) or Eoin O’Connor who are

tickets will sell fast.

compiling the roster.

Members who wish to be included in the draw for allocated hurling final

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 4,8,15 and 22. There was no winner.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Fingal natives come up trumps at National finals P30

SEPTEMBER 1, 2011

AUGUST AWARDS Monthly nominees revealed inside P29

GazetteSPORT

Matt Doherty, pictured second from left, back row, drew plaudits from Wolves manager Mick McCarthy when called upon for their League Cup tie

Doherty on prowl for Wolves’ jersey Swords native stakes claim for first team football with star turn in Wolves win over Northampton in League Cup swordssport@gazettegroup.com

WOLVES’ boss Mick McCarthy paid tribute to Swords man Matt Doherty this week as he made just his second start for the club in the midlands club’s 4-0 win over Northampton Town in the League Cup second round last week.

It was his first appearance of the 2011/12 campaign following an impressive FA Cup runout last term as well as a fine summer in which he helped the Republic of Ireland U-19 side that reached the semi-finals of the European championships.

Since then, McCarthy has been hugely impressed with Doherty in a club where Irish players have prospered in recent times.

The former Bohs’ defender laid up the fourth goal with an excellent cross which Sam Vokes smashed home and, afterwards, McCarthy was quick to pay tribute.

“I thought Matt Doherty had a great game to be honest, as good as anybody on the pitch.

“It was his ball in for the fourth goal which was fabulous football and I’m gobsmacked that no one has come in and asked to take Matt on loan because he’s been outstanding for our reserve team. I’m really pleased with him and I’m not only thrilled for them but really encouraged by their performances.”

And he said it augurs well for the rest of a season which has started in the English Premier League with two wins and a draw, helping the club climb to fifth place in the early season standings.

McCarthy added: “I need back-up and he has played well. It’s far from a Premier League football match and there’s a big difference but he can only do what is in front of him. Players will get injured or suspended.

“It’s not going to happen that we have the same players in for 38 games of the season.”

Doherty’s impressive form in pre-season friendlies for Bohemians against Wolves and Aston Villa went a long way to help earn a move

to Wolves in August 2010.

The full back/centre back caught the eye of Mick McCarthy and the Wolves coaching staff during the friendly played in July and a deal was eventually done with the club which also nurtured Stephen Ward.

Doherty signed a two-year-contract, with a further year in Wolves’ favour, to make the move for an undisclosed fee.

Doherty turned out for Belvedere prior to joining Bohemians, and after almost 18 months spent largely playing reserve team football the Wolves’ friendly was his first appearance for Bohs’ first team.

Having previously had trials with several English clubs at a younger age, he then combined his football with working for his father’s carpet and upholstery cleaning business.

Having appeared as an unused substitute for four Barclays Premier League games, Doherty made his first team debut in the FA Cup Third Round draw with Doncaster in January 2011.