m a s t s i i n r .. . h C y r e b r a c s s Ro n Hall, Glandore io Leap, Un & Castletownshend
Shop Locally this Christmas!
Make it a Christmas to remember ... • Coffee Dock • Bakery - scones, croissants and speciality breads • Deli • Local Produce • Off-Licence
Winner of the Excellence Ireland Supreme National Hygiene Award
... with a Gift Card from The Celtic Ross
SEE IN-STORE FOR SEASONAL SPECIAL OFFERS ALSO purchase online
Ideal Christmas gift for your loved ones this festive season 023 88 48722 Rosscarbery, West Cork www.celticrosshotel.com
We would like to wish a happy and healthy Christmas to our customers, friends and neighbours and we thank you for your support throughout 2019 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Main Street, Union Hall 028-34955
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas
Christmas in ... RosscarGlabendrorye Welcome!
Leap, Union Hall, & Castletownshend
… to our magazine celebrating Christmas in the villages of Rosscarbery, Leap, Union Hall, Castletownshend and Glandore, which we hope will enhance your enjoyment of the festive season in the locality. Our ‘What’s On’ guide gives a flavour of Christmas events planned for the area, and some well-known local personalities tell us about some of their favourite festive things and what Christmas really means to them. We also look back at an eventful year in the area as we recall another successful Scarecrow Festival in Leap, sporting highs and lows across the area, award winners and various other news highlights. Some local children have put pen to paper and written some wonderful Christmas-themed stories and there are also some great gift ideas (all of which can be sourced locally) in our gift guide. The magazine also carries advertisements from many businesses in the locality, who rely on a strong Christmas trade, so we urge our all our readers to shop locally as much as they possibly can. We hope you enjoy this magazine and we’re always open to suggestions as to how we can make it even better next year. 12,000 copies have been inserted into The Southern Star newspaper on Thursday,
December 12th, and in addition we will be distributing extra copies in and around the area in the run-up to Christmas and beyond. All of us here at The Southern Star wish you, your families and everyone in the locality a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Enjoy!
The Southern Star
Relax and enjoy the atmosphere! When you get tired of the hustle and bustle of the Christmas shopping and preparations there is plenty of relaxation to be found in Rosscarbery, Union Hall, Leap, Glandore or Castletownshend. Here you will find timeless locations where you can enjoy a drink or a meal in any of the fine establishments in the area. With ample parking the villages offer an opportunity to contemplate the true meaning of Christmas in an old world atmosphere. In the unique village of Castletownhend you can enjoy a first class meal after a walk to see the beautiful Harry Clarke stained glass windows of St. Barrahane’s Church. Further on to the village of Leap there is no shortage of delicious food and beverages on offer as well as the chance of going to hear some great music. Union Hall is picturesque at any time of the year but the Christmas atmosphere is special as it twinkles like a fairy village and an ideal place to enjoy a retreat from a busy schedule and maybe pick up some of the many delicious fish products on offer. And there is nothing nicer than a fantastic meal in Glandore with a stroll overlooking the Atlantic to aid digestion. Rosscarbery has plenty to offer when it comes to great pub food and restaurants as well as the leisure centre at the Celtic Ross Hotel which is a great asset for families during the holidays. So step back in time and enjoy the relaxation available in these beautiful and atmospheric villages.
team
Christmas in the Villages published by
West Cork’s biggest selling newspaper with 50,000 readers every week and the area’s biggest digital audience across www.southernstar.ie and our social media.
For all enquiries please call 028 21200 or advertising@southernstar.ie or www.southernstar.ie Publisher Editorial Design Team Advertising Sales
The Southern Star Niall O’Driscoll, Aisling Meath Michael Stephens, Muireann Brady, Irene Paradisi Anne Kelleher, Sue Ryan
For all design and publishing enquiries please call 028 21200
s e g a ll
Vi
n o s ’ hat
W
December 21st
January 2020
January 9th
Celtic Ross Hotel
Glandore in aid of the RNLI. Time: TBC- check Facebook page
Presentation of money raised during the year at Mary Ann’s Castletownhend at 9.30. A total of €9,000 will be split between several charities in the area, 2 Primary school classes for children with autism will benefit in Skibbereen, as well as the purchase of a surfboard for Surf2Heal in Clonakilty, a charity enabling autistic children to enjoy surfing with their families. The remainder of the funds will be split between the Hospital Bus in Skibbereen, West Cork Paramedics and CoAction Skibbereen.
Christmas Party Night Christmas candle making workshop Ballyroe Leap 1-5pm Enquiries: www. ballyroe.org
Christmas Jumper Night 2019
at The Leap Inn with music DJ Mike Whelton
December 14th
December 22
Christmas Party Night
Christmas Party Night Celtic Ross Hotel Christmas Candle making workshop for all the family. Suitable from Ages 3 to 99: ‘Be a candlemaker’ Ballyroe Leap 1-5pm Enquiries: www. ballyroe.org
The Frank &Walters
celebrating the 4 year anniversary of Connolly’s of Leap.
December 15
nd
Festive Afternoon Tea
Celtic Ross Hotel Rosscarbery
Christmas candle making workshop Ballyoe Leap 1-5pm Enquiries: www.ballyroe.org
Presentation
New Years Night
Annual New Years Quiz Night at 9.30pm at Mary Anns Castletownshend in aid of Skibbereen Co-Action and West Cork paramedics.
January 4th & 5th 2020 Annual Charity Show
at Tullineaskey Equestrain: All proceeds to Lisheens House Suicide Prevention Centre/ Sat. 4th Horse and Pony showing / Sun. 5th Jump for Fun. Enquiries: 086-1004505
January 25th
West Cork Burns Supper at The Celtic Ross Hotel
December 25th
Christmas Day swim
Christmas candle making workshop Ballyroe Leap 1-5pm Enquiries: www.ballyroe.org
The annual charity Christmas swim will take place at 11am sharp at The Warren Strand and this years funds will go towards Rosscarbery Social Services and Cancer Connect West Cork
December 18th
December 31st
in Rosscarbery cathederal at 8pm
at Connolly’s of Leap open late till 3am.
Carol service
Christmas Concert
New Years Day swim
New Years Eve
in Union Hall National School at 7pm
New Years Eve Party
at The Leap Inn: ‘Ring out the Old- Ring in the New’ with music and dancing into the New Year with Kieran Cooke.
Missionaries of the Sacred Heart Myross Wood
Christmas and New Year Programme 2019
MOUNT SAINT MICHAEL SECONDARY SCHOOL ROSSCARBERY
On behalf of Mt. St. Michael Parents Association, we would like to thank all the sponsors, ticket sellers, parents, staff & students who supported our Annual Bazaar 2019 and helped make it a great success. Sincere thanks also to the Celtic Ross Hotel. A Mass will be offered for your intentions. Mount Saint Michael would like to wish all members of our school community a very peaceful, happy and healthy Christmas 2019. Open Night Thursday January 30th 2020 from 6pm
Sunday, 15th December, Retreat for Lay People, 2.30 pm – 5.00 pm: Talk, Reconciliation, Mass 24th December, Christmas Eve Mass at 9.00 pm 25th December, Christmas Day Mass at 10.00 am 1st January, New Year’s Day Mass at 10.00 am World Day of Peace Feast of Mary, Holy Mother of God
The Community of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart wish you joy, peace and happiness at Christmas and throughout the New Year
q&A
L
Danny Crowley a Leap native, Danny is an Emmy Award-winning sound recordist/mixer for TV & film When do you start getting excited about Christmas? Jan. 2nd. I start counting down the days.
Name three celebrities that you’d like to invite to your Christmas get together and why?
Conor, Jock and Mairead from The Young Offenders because they really are a great laugh and super sound in real life.
What is your favourite childhood memory of Christmas?
My brother Liam and I getting BMXs. It was a big deal and a huge stretch for my parents in the 80s. We had years of launching ourselves off ramps which we had built, lots of fun and I’m amazed that we survived.
Apparently Theresa May is a great kisser
What would you get Boris Johnson for Christmas? Why?
A Rubix cube. Unlikely he’d solve it but he has a better chance of solving that than solving Brexit. He might get to experience earned gratification for once.
If you could change one thing about Christmas day what would it be and why? Just make it longer, more holidays. It’s the only time of year when everything shuts down and you have guilt free non-engagement. Haha.
What is the oldest Christmas decoration that you still use?
As far as decorations I don’t know, but we have a very old copy of ‘The Night Before Christmas’ that was read to my mother, then to my siblings and I, and now to my daughter. It has beautiful illustrations that are now burned into my Christmas memories.
Regardless of tradition what would your ideal Christmas dinner be?
What was your favourite thing about the past year?
I guess winning an Emmy was definitely up there, but probably my six-year-old daughter bringing it to school for show and tell. Her authority on all things to do with awards was funny and heartwarming.
You have mulled wine and you’re under the mistletoe – who would you most like to have with you?
My partner Emily Daines – I can’t get enough of her kisses, although … apparently Theresa May is a great kisser …
O’Donovan’s
Furniture & Carpet Centre Leap
Leap, Co. Cork
We’ve mixed it up over the years depending on how many we were cooking for, but I just love the traditional dinner. I have withdrawal if there is no spiced beef and I love the Gubbeen hams with their star anise and chicory pickle.
What is your favourite seasonal song?
‘Oh Holy Night’ – a good recording of a great choir is untouchable.
Where in the world, apart from home, would you like to be on December 25th and why?
Melbourne, Australia because it would mean that I haven’t missed my brother’s wedding this year.
Tell us one New Year’s resolution that you managed to keep? Any plans for 2020?
Last year’s one was more family time. I think I fulfilled that, (I checked with my family). Next year will be to work smarter not harder.
CARPETS • VINYLS • SAFETY FLOORS BEDS • MATTRESSES • 3 PIECE SUITES TABLES • CHAIRS
Happy Christmas and a peaceful
New Year to all our customers and friends
Tel: 028 33385 - 086 8255101 Email: odonovansfurniture@eircom.net
Q Villages News Review
2019 Cllrs Declan Hurley and Christopher O’Sullivan, Rosscarbery resident Pat O’Sullivan, Minister Jim Daly and Margaret Murphy O’Mahony, TD.
Housing for Elderly in Rosscarbery Rosscarbery’s Edel Hayes with family and friends at the Garda Youth Awards. (Photo: Denis Boyle)
Garda Youth Awards
It was big congratulations to Edel Hayes of Rosscarbery and Alicia O’ Sullivan of Castlehaven who were amongst the winners of the 24th West Cork Garda Youth awards. Chief Superintendent Con Cadogan, Divisional Officer for Cork West Division said it was heartwarming to see so many young people involving themselves in activities within their local community.
Despite having no door marked number 13, Star Garden in Rosscarbery saw the official opening of the latest housing scheme with a day of sunshine on September 13th this year. The scheme comprising nine units, a mixture of houses and apartments, provide longterm accommodation for older residents. The first 11 were built in 2005 and developed by the Rosscarbery Social Housing Association. Dr. Dan Burke, Chairperson of the Rosscarbery Social Housing Association welcomed the initiative and said’ The latest phrase enables a total of 23 elderly people to live independently amongst the local community and enjoy a high quality of life with easy access to all the local services.’ Dr. Burke also welcomed the high quality standard of the development constructed by the Calahane brothers.
‘Old Father Time’ Michael Greenlaw with ‘witches’ Rita Ryan, Margaret O’Neill and Maureen O’Neill at Leap Scarecrow Festival. (Photo: Denis Boyle)
Scarecrow festival
The 250 residents of Leap saw their population double as the village made way for a legion of scarecrows and other scary characters for another year of the successful Leap Scarecrow festival during Halloween week. Rita Ryan and Margaret O’ Neill who organise the festival are delighted with its ever growing popularity. ‘The appeal is that it is suitable for all the family- from the youngest of children to the oldest of grandparents’ said Rita People of all ages were invited to make their own scarecrows and they were displayed around the village transforming it into a spook hangout. Visitors flocked to the village in their droves to take selfies with the ghoulish creations. Local man Michael Greenlaw gave workshops in advance of the event on how best to make a scarecrow. Sustainability was the theme of the winning creation ‘ Cycling and recycling’ which was made by four-year-old Daniel Magennis from Drimoleague along with his pal two and a half year old Thomas Weblin. Daniel who goes to Caheragh playgroup along with Thomas was delighted to win at the festival and said he planned to celebrate with ice cream and smoothies.
Top award for Leap’s Danny Crowley
The Emmy awards in the USA were set up to honour excellence in the television industry, and so what an outstanding accomplishment for Leap man Danny Crowley when he won the Emmy for his sound mixing on the global hit TV series Game of Thrones. Danny, who started off his career in West Cork working on ‘War of the Buttons’, is currently a top name in the industry. He attended the glamorous event in LA along with his partner Emily Daines and when the event was over he brought the prestigious award back be displayed in his house in Leap.
Connolly’s reopens after blip
The 2018 IMRO Music award winner for Munster Venue, Connolly’s of Leap was closed for four months earlier in the year due to a refusal to have its theatre license reissued. Owner Sam McNicholl found himself facing a legal challenge in January of this year to re -apply for a theatre licence and the four-month closure was a great loss not only for Leap, but for the many musicians both from home and abroad who regularly travel to play in the iconic venue. On April 15th Sam’s legal team won the day and the venue was reissued with the licence and a collective sigh of relief was heaved by artists and musicians up and down the land, and their fans, as Connolly’s is one of the most treasured venues in the country.
Sir Tim Laurence, chairman of the RNLI’s operations committee, with John Kelleher, Union Hall lifeboat operations manager, and Paddy O’Donovan, Union Hall RNLI chairman. (Photo: Anne Minihane)
RNLI Union Hall news
Union Hall RNLI were vigilant and prompt in their successful rescue of a swimmer who was reported missing off Owenahincha beach in June. Chris Collins, Charlie Deasy and Dan Collins launched the lifeboat and made their way to the scene after an alert from the Irish Coast Guard. Weather conditions were poor at the time with force 6 south east gusting to force 7 and a big swell at sea. The crew located the swimmer near Rosscarbery pier and escorted him safely to shore. Meanwhile in July Sir Tim Laurence, who is chairman of the RNLI’s operations committee, and son-in-law to Queen Elizabeth, husband of her only daughter Anne, was one of a group of senior RNLI officials who visited West Cork to carry out a review of lifeboat stations. After visiting the RNLI station in Union Hall it resulted in the positive news that a new lifeboat was on its way and likely to be delivered in the 2nd quarter of 2020. John Kelleher Union Hall lifeboat operations manager confirmed: ‘The operations committee are happy with the way the station is being run’
(Photo: Andrew Harris)
Water Park makes a splash
Rosscarbery welcomed the addition of their exiting new Water Park activity centre located in the 3ft. deep semi tidal lagoon on the Causeway. The activity centre provides trampolines, slides, monkey bars, climbing walls and obstacles all contributing to the enjoyment of visiting children. As well as being able to stand up almost anywhere within the activity space, there is no direct access to the sea and all activities are supervised by qualified lifeguards.
Q Villages sports Review
2019
IN the county senior football championship, Carbery Rangers and Castlehaven clash in the second round, playing out an enthralling tie which required extra time to separate the teams. With both clubs having lost their opening-round games, Ross to Ilen Rovers and the Haven against Fermoy, their meeting was do-or-die and the large crowd present at Skibbereen signified the importance. Ross looked to be heading for victory only for a Ronan Walsh goal at the death for the Haven, which necessitated another 20 minutes. However, Ross prevailed by 2-17 to 1-18, with John Hayes scoring 1-9 for them. Unfortunately for Ross, they exited the competition in the next round, losing out to St Finbarr’s after another encounter in which extra time had to be played. In the Carbery junior A football, Kilmacabea were on the quest for a third straight title and they began with a good win over O’Donovan Rossa and then overcame St Colum’s after a replay but were eliminated by Ballinascarthy at the quarter-final stage. Mark Collins, Brian Hurley and Michael Hurley of Castlehaven and Carbery Rangers’ John O’Rourke featured heavily as Cork reached the Super 8s stage of the All-Ireland senior football championship, while Rory Maguire was part of the successful U20 football panel. At minor level, Jack Cahalane was a dual star for Cork, winning a football medal along with Carbery Rangers’ Kelan Scannell. Myross Rowing Club had a great outing at the All-Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships in Dingle, winning nine gold medals, one silver and four bronze, while there was a strong West Cork representation at the World Championships in Hong Kong. Niamh Hayes finished 14th in the women’s single sculls and her Galley Flash clubmate John Harrington came 16th in the men’s event. Myross men finished tenth in the A final of the quad category and Castletownshend duo Eimear Walsh and Ella Ciallis just missed out on reaching the A decider but went on to win the B final.
Rosscarbery’s John Hodnett celebrating after Ireland’s U20 Six Nations Championship win against France. In rugby, Rosscarbery native John Hodnett continued to make strides with both Munster and Ireland. In the spring, he was a key part of the team which won the grand slam in the U20 Six Nations Championship and then helped secured a seventh-place finish at the World Championship in Argentina in June. He got his first run-out with the Munster senior team in a pre-season friendly against London Irish and has been a regular feature on the Munster A side as the side has progressed, with hopes high that he can maintain that progress in 2020.
HAIR DESIGN Proprietor: Sinéad Fitzpatrick
GHD Hair Straighteners & Joico & Moroccan Oil Gift Sets r) Hairtalk Extensions (new to the salon this yea
The Square, Glandore TEL: 028-34494
Wishing our customers a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year
Ideal Christmas Gifts
Open Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9-6pm Saturday 9-5.30pm Lunch appointments taken
Gift
Vouchers
E AVAILABL
Sinéad and staff wish all their customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year
Full á la carte menu with weekend specials. Showcasing the best in locally sourced produce from the land and the sea. Homemade desserts.
North Square, Rosscarbery, West Cork, Tel: 023 8831989
ROSSCARBERY PHARMACY
ROSSCARBERY INDOOR BOWLS
West Square, Rosscarbery Tel: 023 8848127
Every Wednesday at 7.30pm In The Celtic Ross Hotel
A sincere thank you to our customers for choosing Rosscarbery Pharmacy from Noelle, Bernard & all the staff. We wish you all the joys of the holiday season & we look forward to looking after you in 2020
New Members Welcome Feel free to come for a game, no obligation to join.
Searching
Wishing all our members and patrons a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous 2020
for That Perfect Gift ? Come and see
our wide range of Christmas Gifts to suit all budgets & ages, including large selection of: Perfume & Gift Sets • Candles & Diffusers • Cosmetics Jewellery • Children’s Toys HAMPERS MADE TO ORDER
Stockist of:
Kinvara, Eucerin, Luna By Lisa, Modern Botany, Flormar Cosmetics, TanOrganic, Tipperary Crystal Candles, Blank Canvas, Biocare Minerals & Vitamins and many more!
OPEN THROUGH LUNCH EVERY DAY OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.30 - 6.30pm Sat: 9.30-5.30pm Tel: 023 8848127 Fax: 023 8851110
Two 18 hole links courses Membership, Green Fees & Club Hire Special weekly (7 days) Family Membership play as often as you like €50 Green Fee from €7 for Adults and €5 for under 16 yr olds. Tel: 087 2186529 (PRO) 087 6602949
Wishing all our members a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year
www.rosscarberypitchandputt.com
GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE
q&A
L
Grace Santry manager of Tullineaskey Equestrian
When do you start getting excited about Christmas? Lunchtime Christmas Eve! More panic than excitement as I’ve probably no shopping done.
Name three celebrities that you’d like to invite to your Christmas get together and why? Roy Keane, Colin Farrell and Lady Gaga. I’d say the craic and banter would be unreal.
What is your favourite childhood memory of Christmas?
My best childhood Christmas memory was Santa hiding our presents out around the yard. They were in the boot of the car, in the stables … they could have been anywhere and could have been anything. One year I got a white goat named Kizzy!
My Best childhood Christmas memory was Santa hiding our presents out around the yard
What would you get Boris Johnson for Christmas ? Why?
A lucky eight-ball to help him make a decision on Brexit.
If you could change one thing about Christmas day what would it be and why?
Christmas day is a sad enough day in our house as we are missing a few family members with the last few years, so I’d guess I’d change that if I could!
What is the oldest Christmas decoration that you still use?
The oldest decorations we still use are probably some candy sticks which I made in woodwork class in school.
FOR ALL YOUR HOUSEHOLD, PETS, ELECTRICAL, DIY, GARDENING & AGRI GOODS
Don’t be left in the dark this Autumn/Winter!! Wishing all our customers and
We have a range of petrol and tractor generators suppliers a your veryrequirements… Happy Christmas to suit
and prosperous New Year
Regardless of tradition what would your ideal Christmas dinner be?
AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT
Probably steak, roast potatoes and honey-roast carrots.
What is your favourite seasonal song?
'Driving Home for Christmas' by Chris Rea.
Where in the word, apart from home, would you like to be on December 25th and why?
The history of Lisavaird Co-op a human story about the people who shaped the co-op’s journey from 1925 to the present day.
Australia for some sunshine.
Tell us one New Year's resolution that you managed to keep? Any plans for 2020? To try and stay more positive. Plans for 2020? To get fitter.
What was your favourite thing about the past year? I’ve achieved a lot of my goals work-wise.
You have mulled wine and you’re under the mistletoe, who would you most like to have with you? Luke McCarthy – my boyfriend.
See in store for more options - only while stocks last T: 023 8833334
www.lisavairdco-op.ie
E: admin@lisavaird co-op.ie
Branches: Ardfield T: 023 8840614/ Ballinascarthy T: 023 8839105 / Ballycummer T: 023 8838609 / Manch T: 023 8845171 / Reenascreena T: 023 8848148 / Rosscarbery T: 023 8848119
NOLAN’S
North Square, Rosscarbery
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all our Clients, Family and Friends from all at
Serving delicious food over the Christmas period Traditional music over the festive season
Christmas and New Year greetings to all our customers Gist Vouchers Available
The Square, Skibbereen Tel: 028 22822 www.patmaguireproperties.com
Ryan’s Shop & Forecourt
The Fish Shop
The Union FishHallShop Union Hall
Daily Landings of fresh local fish
Daily Landings of fresh local fish
Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous 2020
Rosscarbery
ROSSCARBERY TRADITIONAL FISH & CHIPS TAKE-AWAY & SIT-IN - OPEN 12.30 - 9PM SPAR SUPERMARKET OFF-LICENCE DELI
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas
Opening dates/times are as follows for Christmas Period Wednesday 18th December 9.00-5.00 Thursday 19th December 9.00-5.00 Friday 20th December 9.00-5.00
Saturday 21st December 9.00-1.00 Monday 23rd December 9.00-5.00
Tuesday December 9.00-1.00 Glenmar Shellfish24th Ltd, Main Street, Union Hall, Co. Cork
Tel: 028-33818 Fax: 028-33099 info@glenmarshellfish.com Re-opening Monday 30thE:December 9.00-5.00
Tuesday 31st December 9.00-1.00 Open again 2nd Jan 9.00-5.00 Closed for lunch 1.00-2.00 9.00am – 1.00pm
Glenmar Shellfish Ltd, Main Street, Union Hall, Co. Cork Tel: 028-33818 Fax: 028-33099 E: info@glenmarshellfish.com
023-8848018
SPAR OPEN 7AM TO 9PM AND THROUGHOUT THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD
Villages
Gift Guide
Rosscarbery Pharmacy Christmas shopping could not be easier at Rosscarbery Pharmacy. There is an extensive array of gifts to suit all ages and Noelle and her staff can make up a hamper in-store to suit any budget. They also offer a free gift wrapping service on all gifts purchased in the store. Great gift ideas for the man or woman in your life or indeed children include cosmetics from Luna by Lisa, Glow Vault, Matisse Jewellery, Mans Stuff beard kit and kids truck assembly sets. Call in to browse.
Eating out or a relaxing drink Over the Christmas holidays, there is nothing like a stroll on one of our lovely beaches or a woodland walk to whet the appetite. It is also an opportunity for families to take in the fresh air and exercise together and then visit one of the nearby establishments providing tasty local food and beverages - Dinty’s Bar and The Boatman’s Inn, Union Hall; Glandore Inn and Casey’s Bar, Glandore; Leap’s Harbour Bar, Shanahan’s Bar and The Leap Inn, Rosscarbery’s Celtic Ross Hotel, Nolan’s Bar and Rosscarbery Fish & Chips and The Castle, Castletownshend. A gift voucher or a surprise meal out in one of these cosy eateries/bars would make the ideal Christmas gift.
Holiday hampers
Fuller's in Union Hall have hampers to suit all budgets and tastes and these would make a welcome gift for people of all ages. They are beautifully presented and packaged so give a call on 028-34955 and place your order now.
Give the gift of music this Christmas
Available from the Celtic Ross Hotel. The Fureys will be appearing on February 13th, Ronan Collins, Gina Dale Haze & The Champions on 8 February and A Night with the Country Stars on 10 March. Book now at the hotel on 023-8848722. Alternatively, you can treat your loved one to a Celtic Ross Hotel gift voucher which can be exchanged or used in part payment throughout the hotel for accommodation, dining and leisure centre. www.celticrosshotel.com
2019
Support WCAWG
Don’t forget that a dog is for life and not just for Christmas. The West Cork Animal Welfare Group work tirelessly to find abandoned dogs their forever homes. A selection of handmade crafts cards and calendars are available at Skibbereen Farmers market every Saturday and also directly from the charity.
Get the perfect ham or spiced beef
Avril, Willie, Maurice and William from award winning Caherbeg Free Range Pork products are passionate about their produce and offer advice on buying the perfect ham for your Christmas dinner or to give to family/friends as a gift. They sell free-range beautifully baked hams (and half hams) as well as dry cure Angus spiced beef. There is also a great readyto-eat product called Irish Biltong which is glutenfree, using natural ingredients, is high in protein and is a delicious dried 100% Angus beef snack. To place your order call 023-8848474 or 087-9140811
Happy Christmas & a Prosperous New Year Wishing the Kilmacs the very best in the West to all myCork customers final from: from: D ECLAN P. O’D ONOVAN T/A
E N G I N E E R I N G LTD
CASEY’S OF GLANDORE
WELDING | FABRICATION || MECHANICAL MECHANICAL SERVICES WELDING | FABRICATION SERVICES
086 8202255
Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year to all our customers.
Michael Ronan Insurances
Seasons Greetings to all our customers and friends
Insurance Brokers Leap
Wishing a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year to all our clients and friends
SAFETNYG NETTI
Tel: 028 33161 Mob: 086 0582127 Email: michaelronan@eircom.net
Scaffolding & Safety Netting Specialists 087 6703361 | ROSSCARBERY CO. CORK
Michael Ronan, trading as: Michael Ronan Insurances, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
Molly Mops
Happy Christmas and a Wishing our customers a Happy Christmas prosperous New Year to all our Wishing our customers a Happy Christmas Look out for our Christmas competition in store Lo Tel: 028 33310 customers. Union Hall Tel: 028Thank 33310you for all your support over many years Tel: 028 33310 BOATMAN’S INN Tel: 028 33310 Union Hall CAROLINE MURPHY, THE HAPPY LOVER CAROLINE MURPHY, THE HEN HAPPY HEN LOVER C and a Prosperous New Year086 3141818/086 Phone: 6081014 HAPPY HEN LOVER O VE R Union Hall ROSSCARBERY, WEST CORK, COUNTY CORK WEST CORK, COUNTY CORK R Union Hall ROSSCARBERY, BOATMAN’S INN Tel: 028 33310 www.mollymops.com CAROLINE MURPHY, THE HAPPY HEN LOVER P PAH E H T ,Y HHappy P RChristmas U M E N I LORAC Tel: 028 33310 RK, COUNTY CORK EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@WESTCORKEGGS.IE C OR K EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@WESTCORKEGGS.IE EGG L OV E INN INN ROSSCARBERY, WEST CORK, COUNTY CORK C ,K ROC TS E W ,Ycustomers RE B R Wishing our a Year veryACSSOR BOATMAN’S and aallProsperous New BOATMAN’S NFO@WESTCORKEGGS.IE EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@WESTCORKEGGS.IEG OR E OF NL I 7767106 680 LAG OL G GK E Union Hall G 028New33310 Happy Christmas Union Hall ID SREVE and aTel: Prosperous Year
CAROLINE MURPHY, THE HAPPY HEN LOVER CAROLINE MURPHY , THE HAPPY H ROSSCARBERY, WEST CORK, COUNTY CORK ROSSCARBER Y , WEST CORK, COU EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@WESTCORKEGGS.IE EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@WE
Wishing all our customers a very
BOATMAN’S INN
and a Prosperous New Year
Happy Christmas BOATMAN’S INN Happy Christmas
Union Hall
Wishingand allaour customers acustomers very Wishing all ourNew Prosperous Year a very and a Prosperous New Year Tel: 028 33310 BOATMAN’S Happy Christmas INN Happy Christmas Carbery Wishing our customers a very rangers Gaa Club wish all their members and a all Prosperous New Year Tel:Wishing 028all33310 our customers a very and supporters a Very happy Christmas. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas WishingWishing all our customers a very all our customers a very Happy Christmas BOATMAN’S INN Thanksatovery everyone for their continued support and contribution both on and off the pitch, Happy Christmas Wishing all our customers Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year especially to our players, coaches/trainers/managers, supporters, sponsors, lotto ticket sellers, and a Prosperous New Year a Prosperous andBOATMAN’S a Prosperous Newand Year INN New Year buyers and the businesses that allow us to sell our lotto tickets. And in particular this year, a big Happy Christmas BOATMAN’S INN thank you to all those that made RosSync an outstanding success for the club and community. BOATMAN’S INN BOATMAN’S INN and a Prosperous New Year Wishing all our customers a very Don’t forget - RosSync 2 -on Saturday February 1st Union Hall Happy Christmas Seasons greetings to you all. Wishing all our customers a very
Union Hall
Union Hall
Union Hall Union Hall
Tel: 086 Tel: 0283106286 33310 Tel: 028 33310
The best Christmas ever! The Southern Star, in conjunction with The West Cork Education Centre, ran an essay competition for primary school children in the area recently with the theme ‘It was the best Christmas ever’. Here are two great examples of West Cork’s budding literary talent! from The horror unfolded as we returned s tree The . oon mass in the early aftern an to beg s were swaying as angry grey skie . land shed the first flakes of snow on the they My bother squealed with delight as our but , reen dsc fell randomly on the win ing eth som d joy was short lived. We realise t fron was wrong as soon as we opened the smell? There was no aroma door. It was cold - and where was the … as dead as a doornail! of roast turkey. I checked my new iPod he realised his new Nintendo My brother slamming his fists when most important ingredient for Switch wouldn’t work. Electricity, the a happy Christmas - GONE!
It was Christmas Eve, and my family and I were in the sitting room, watching a movie. We were all excited, but I was a bit nervous because we hadn’t gone to see Santa and I wasn’t sure he had got my letter. That night, at around midnight, footsteps woke me. I got up, crept downstairs to the Christmas tree. Who was there but Santa and Rudolf! I couldn’t believe my eyes! ‘You are meant to be asleep!’ said Santa. ‘I know! I would be asleep but you woke me!’ I answered. ‘Sorry, but I need to tell you something,’ he said. ‘WHAT!’ I shouted excitedly. ‘Shhh!’ whispered Santa. ‘The rest of your family will wake up!’ ‘OK’I said, but what do you need to tell me?’
Three hour later my mood lifted. Mum lit a fire and dad made Then Santa explained ‘The elves told me when I was in Ireland, I got salmon and cheese crackers. one more letter. That means that kid won’t get what they wanted Ludo, a game that had been for Christmas.’ And who’s letter was that?’ I asked. ‘That’s what gathering dust on the shelves, I needed to tell you, it was your letter.’ he said. ‘But I thought I was great fun. Dusk fell, a full could make it up to you. Would you like to help me deliver everyone moon shone on the blanket of else’s presents?’ ‘YES! YES! YES!’ I shouted. ‘OK. But for the last snow. Candles were lit. We talked time, SHHH! ’ more in those couple of hours So we hopped into the sleigh, and off we went. When we got than in the last month. The , iPod my on was I home, day I thanked Santa and he said ‘Bye! See you next year! Next following morning, when I woke up, I wasn’t sure if it was all a dream or not, my brother was on his Nintendo, Wishing Happ but when I went downstairs to the Christmasa but to be honest, I preferred the our customers tree, there was a ook out for our Christmas compe t bes little note under it that said Christmas is for giving not receiving night before - that was the -- Santa xx. It really was the best Christmas EVER!!! Christmas ever!
Rebecca Shanahan Róisín O’Shea th 10 years old s clas 5 CAROLINE MURPHY , THE HAPP th CAROLINE MURPHY , TH ool Sch ary Prim 4 class St. Mary’s ROSSCARBER Y , WEST CORK, C ROSSCARBER Y , WEST Leap National School scarbery HEN LRos OVER CAROLINE MURPHY , THE UNTY CORK VERS DIAL 086 6017677 INFO@ EGG LOVERS DIAL 086 601767 ESTCORKEGGS.IE ROSSCARBERY , WEST CO
G G .6017677 IE EGG L OVERS S DIAL 086
DINTY’S BAR Main Street, Union Hall
Renowned for fish dishes supplied from the local fishing fleet - our seafood platter is famous. Our crowd pleasing steak is cooked to perfection & served with all the trimmings. Open throughout the Christmas season Full menu served all day, plus daily specials dintysbar@gmail.com | www.facebook.com/dintys.bar
Taking bookings for Christmas Parties call 028 33373 or 085 7269977 Vouchers on sale for Christmas
Tricia’s
Ladies & Gents Hair Salon
North Square, Rosscarbery Tel: 023-8848717 Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year
me to deliver
under 10 points - you won’t be invited onto the local pub quiz team I’m afraid
Answers
Carbery Rangers in the County Good luck to all the gang on Sunday Carbery Rangers abú upporter Bernie McGrath, now living in Ballinora, received a cold welcome when she coil Eoin in Ballincollig ahead of Sunday's county football final between the clubs. Final from Ballinora and Cork and her nephews, John, Thomas and Cathal O'Rourke, are on the
Best of Luck to the Carbery Rangers fr from rom ro o nty final, explains Ger McCarthy I love thers excitement of the children looking JOHN COLLINS (Photo: Mike English)
OPE
Stockists o Technique This W v
JENNINGS
forward to Santa’s visit Yet, Brian Shanahan’s stellar O’Sullivan made swift changes Car Repairs, Rosscarbery Wishing all our from the substitutes bench and year on the edge of the square, Wishing all my customers a Concrete Precast Ltd. (crucially) at the right times to James Fitzpatrick’s ability to win customers a Happy Happy Christmas & a When do you get your Christmas tree? ensure victory. Gortroe, Leap, Co.primary Cork possession in the centre I always have it up before the 8th of December butChristmas this year I am a bit early: it went up on November and every Prosperous 30th becauseFRENCH they kids were dying to put it up ever since they saw The Late Late Toy Show. the6116 park plus Brian Hodnett, In short, Rosscarbery possess DIARMUID Contact John on 086of 855 Diarmuid French Motors, good wish for 2020 New Year a coach capable of altering the Seamus Hayes and Declan How do you usually spend Christmas Eve? I work up until 1pm and then we usually go to either Clonakilty or Skibbereen and we have our MOTORS course of the final if things aren’t Hayes’s capacity to come up with lunch out. We like to soak up the pre-Christmas atmosphere before heading home on Christmas Sales & Service, Knockanenacrohy, Eve to get ready for the big day. vital scores are even more imgoing their way. Happy Christmas & a Wishing all a very MICHAEL GALLWEY What is the last thing you do before bed on Christmas Eve? Another impressive point portant factors when you analyse Leap, Co Cork. Prosperous Yearmovie in an attempt The childrenNew watch a Christmas to chill out andCONTRACTOR before they go to bed they put ELECTRICAL the Carbery club’s improving about this year’s version ofHappy Car- Christmas out milk and cookies for Santa. to all or our customers & GENERATOR SALES Tel:087/2747642 028/34657 & prosperous performances throughout a long bery Rangers is the improveDo you light a fire on Christmas Day? Repairs & Service of We do – very early in the morning. It sets the mood for the day. ment in the squad’s supportingNewyear. Leap, Co Cork Diarmuid French Motors Year Sinéad all makes of cars & s:cast Carbery Rangers’ veteran Kevin MacMahon, pictured Sales & Service, A shrewd coach alliedinwith a and no longer the over-reWhat is the first thing you do on Christmas morning?028 33529 / 086 252 8978 Our childrenLeap, usually Co have Cork. my husband, John, and I up at 6am and it’s all go from there... oliance Rangers, will star haveplayers. a big role to play in the midfield this Knockanenacrohy, lightleads commercial focused and settled battle squad on their Bestvehicles wishes to Carbery Rangers in the County Final www.michaelgallweygenerators.ie Fitzpatrick :LVKLQJ &DUEHU\ 5DQJHUV WKH YHU\ EHVW RI OXFN ted by O'Ma- John Hayes, me to believe that Rangers will Tel: 087 2747642 or 028 34657 What is the thing you like most about Christmas? AsJerry expected, Mobile: 086 3717355 in the County Final from Finishing work on Christmas Eve and getting to spend time with my family: I love the excitement e square in RossJohn O’Rourke and Kevin lift the Andy Scannell trophy on of the children looking forward to Santa’s visit. Proprietor Kiely at midfield, the Kelly/Miskella axis ers’ main strength is McMahon have produced the Sunday. What time is Christmas dinner in your house? of Sinéad’s front, and Dorgan scoreboard. To the dangeronplayers as upbasis This year we are staying at home and dinner will be on the table by 4pm. Destiny on hasthe nothing to do with goods a regular SCAFFOLDING & win and this final ble. They mustthe utilise Hair Design it. those four players must show throughout summer What is your favourite Christmas movie? the proway. If they struggle, then Ballincollig llest. SAFETY NETTING LTD Home Alone. I absolutely love it. And Home Alone 2. Fresh quality Verdict: Carbery Rangers to been crucial to their side’s will struggle. seafood using What is your favourite Christmas song? Scaffolding erected and supplied win by two points. gression to the county final. traditional 4. Ballincollig must get their swarm deScaffolding erected and supplied Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas. Also labour only | Fully insured t nullify the threatmethods of fence right once again. Bishopstown found also labour only • Fully insured What do you do immediately after the Christmas dinner? HHH Lie on the couch and sleep. Doesn’t everyone? nt. The Ross forward a way through for three goals in the first C2 and VAT registered & DQG 9$7 UHJLVWHUHG orm in the semi-final round and both CIT and Nemo kicked a Genuine Oak Smoked Mince pies, or Christmas cake, or neither, and why? Neither. I just don’t like them. The thing I like at Christmas time is sherry trifle made by my mum, has lost a half yard of pair each and the town side can’t afford a Fish Products or John’s mum, Kathleen. FOR ALL YOUR SCAFFOLDING Margaret, Castlehaven GAA Wish all their est point-kicker in the repeat of that against the lively Ross for087 6703361 What is the tradition in your house on Stephen’s Day? REQUIREMENTS may depend on their wards. However, their defence has been It is a verysupporters lazy day. It is like Christmas we have a big dinner, but what’s different is that we andDay:friends a very tend to go for a walk afterwards. ep the ball away from outstanding for the most part, as CastleHappy haven will testify being limited to three Happy Christmas to or they may decide to 3 What is the tradition in yourChristmas house on New Year’s and Day? the 3125 8 2 We have family over for dinner – yet another big dinner! 0 all our customers : Hayes is given Telspace, points from play. Best wishes to Carbery Rangers very best of luck for 2020 Best wishes to Carbery Rangers in the What is your favourite Christmas memory? 5. Ballincollig must break even, at least, ty for his side. Santa used to come to our house every Christmas Eve. There’s be a knock at the door at around st start better than in at midfield. The battle between FitzpatCounty Final from: on Sunday from 10pm and whensupport we’d go out we’d find Santaweekly had dropped off our presents. It was always exciting Please our Club Lotto thinking that he’d been at our front door, just moments before. rick/MacMahon and Kiely/O’Sullivan in . They were Contact 1-3 downus for the perfect Christmas Gift | www.unionhallsmokedfish.com tes and if Rangers get the middle of the park looks like being the What is your perfect West Cork Christmas walk – a beach or a forest? Beach. We are blessed to live on the cliff walk overlooking The Warren. time round, learning decisive battle of this game as both sets of Come on Ross! Sinead and Claire O’Regan pictured at home in backs look evenly matched, with the Ross fight tooth and nail to Barleyhill, Rosscarbery 086 8779412 n in Rosscarbery Rosscarbery with their nine-foot tall replica of the Andy defence ect a big second half ch. Scannell Cup. a much-improved unit this season s their wont, but they under new coach Ronan McCarthy. St. Mary’s Primary School Both attacks have averaged exactly the o far behind. Scoil Náisiúnta Mhuire t get big performances same score, 1-14, this season so whichRosscarbery ers. While they are a ever attack gets most possession should be Castlefreke Happy Christmas to Kiely and as their various score- able to run up a winning score. MOUNT SAINT MICHAEL Tel: 023 8848395 mob: 087 2594038www.stmarysross.com in the middle ames prove, they still O’Sullivan must ensure parityall our customers & SECONDARY SCHOOL performances of Sean of the pitch if Ballincollig are to lift the cup.
No
Q&A Teel:l:with Te 023 8833334
MAGUIRE
0$*8,5(
6&$))2/',1* /7'
re Sunday’s senior d be won and lost
087 6703361
Connie White Plant&Hire HAYES CABIN CARAVAN SERVICES
Keohane
friends and thank you for your continued support.
enior football championship clash.
An Ideal Christmas Gift
ciding is how both teams will con- make the sandwiches after trainwww.castle-townshend.com ing, for the elderly supporters tain the expected, and totally un-36100 028 who have waited all their lives derstandable, nerves this week. There are big game players in for a day like this; this is for both teams, some have won everyone. That’s a lot of pressure to deal county senior finals with Carbery in the past, others have won All- with and the occasion of a county Irelands with Cork, so there is final with your club is like none no shortage of the big-stage ex- ever experienced before. Whichever sides can keep a lid perience.
Launc a great insight
Christmas
Ross
Feel free t Wishing Happ
OFFERS VAL TO WEDNE
Centra Party E4.00 EAC
MOUNT SAINT MICHAEL SECONDARY SCHOOL, ROSSCARBERY.
We would like to thank all the sponsors, ticket sellers, parents, staff &
students who supported our Annual Bazaar 2015 and helped make it a great success. Sincere thanks also to the Celtic Ross Hotel. A Mass will be offered for your intentions.
We would like to wish our pupils, Readymix Limited Rosscarbery parents & staff, both past & present ROSSCARBERY
We would like to wish our pupils, parents and staff, both past and present,
We would like to thank all the sponsors, ticket sellers, parents, staff & students who supported our Annual Bazaar 2015 and helped make it a great success. Sincere thanks also to the Celtic Ross Hotel.
A very Happy & Holy Christmas 2015
A Mass will be offered for your intentions.
A very Happy & Holy Christmas 2019
Ger’s Wild Atlantic Diner | Main Street, Leap | 028 33931
BOUTIQUE B & B with CAFÉ & GROUNDS open to the public y Rangers' Michael Mennis is tackled by Ballincollig's John Kelly
Tradit
John Shanahan & Sons THE NEW INN GARAGE & BAR, LEAP
Sales & Service - Pre NCT & CRVT - Vehicle Diagnostics
Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all our customers. )OR 6FUHHG Thank you for all your support over many years
Ballygurteen, Clonakilty. Tel: 023-8838710 Garage 028-33204 • The New Inn 028-33308 Ger021-4775599 086-8247408 • Finbarr 086-3311097 Innishannon. Tel: www.keohanereadymix.com info@keohanereadymix.ie
Carlsberg/Guinness
Thank you t and love to us excelle Everyone at and yo
EN: Mon-Fri: 9.30-6.30pm Sat: 9.30-5.30pm Tel: 023 8848127/Fax:023 8851110
of Eucerin, Bia Beauty, Zoella, Eylure Brow Bar,Real es Brushes, St.Tropez tan, B Bold tan, Tanorganic, Works Pillow Spray, Biocare & large range of vitamins/supplements,first aid supplies
q&A
2 Impress
Consignment Shop at Hubbert’s Crafts Rosscarbery, West Cork
Pre-loved Fashion
L
New & Gently used Designer Labels
olan’s
Designer Jewellery, Hat Hire & Accessories crafts@rosscarbery.ie
087 2139951
(award-winning bar) North Square, Rosscarbery
Follow us on
Tom Somm erville The Abbey Bar Owner of Drishane House, Castletownshend
tional music over the festive season When do you start Sunday 13th December 6 pm It’s usually my
getting excited about Christmas?
wife Jane who starts off the festive feeling ch of video of Ross Fair in the 60's/70's with when she the starts t into everyday life in and around area attaking that time.out boxes of Christmas s and New Yeardecorations greetings to all our customers 2-3 weeks beforehand. ThisBetty reminds Sean, & Christopher me to start looking for my father’s recipe forall their customers and friends a Would like to wish scarbery Indoor Bowls Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2016. punch.
Silent Night, I remember singing it at Christmas in Bethlehem when I was 7
Every Wednesday @ 7pm Dec 19th Fergus | Dec 26th Michael Ronan 5-8pm Dec 26th True Colours 10pm | Dec 31st LoLo in The Celtic Rossthree Hotel celebrities that you’d Name New Members Welcome Rosscarbery, Co. Cork | Tel: 023-8848945 invite to your Christmas get-together to come for a game, no obligation to join Email: abbeybarrosscarbery@eircom.net and why g all our members and Patrons a very would choose2016. Graham Norton, py ChristmasI and Prosperous
Tony O’Reilly and our very own Steve Redmond. Graham Norton because he is accessible, funny and quick-witted. Tony O’Reilly because he has had immense successes and suffered great reverses LID FROM THURSDAY 24TH DECEMBER ESDAY 30TH (which DECEMBER lets out the air and makes one more interesting.) He is resilient and proud with an 2 FOR e1.50 idealistic strain, which should make him expansive EACH e5 under Graham Norton’s influence. Finally WishingSteve all my Redmond, the first man to do the Ocean’s 7 swims; constituents and I have two boys aged 13 and 17, and they have friends much to learn a very from him as we all do.
y Food Range 150g - 370g CH (See Instore for Details)
Pringles Original/Sour Cream/Salt & Vinegar/BBQ/Cheese/Cheesy Cheese 190g - 789g was €3.29
Tell us one New Year’s resolution that you managed to keep? Any plans for 2020?
Some years ago I bought Nigel Lawson’s Diet book. He had lost so much weight he looked positively ill. This seemed the answer. I made and kept that resolution. I will make a New Year’s resolution for 2020. The same one.
What was your favourite thing about the past year?
The expansion of my Dexter herd.
You have mulled wine and you’re under the mistletoe, - who would you most like to have with you?
Definitely my wife Jane. Now I must make sure I have some mistletoe in ...
Happy Christmas &
What is your favourite childhood memory of Christmas? prosperous New year
Waking in the very early morning on Christmas Day and seeing the stocking at the bottom of the bed and wondering how Santa Claus knew which one was for my brother and which one for me. There was EACH always a tangerine at the bottom; it was easy to peel in bed.
e10
What would you get Boris Johnson for Christmas? Why?
s/Budweiser/Bud Light / Bulmers/Bulmers Light Can Pack 8x 500ml - €2.50/ltr
I’d give him a truth drug. Or a postal vote from Ireland.
All offers on this leaflet are valid from Thursday 24th December to Wednesday 30th December unless otherwise stated. Customer quotas may apply. Available while stocks last in selected stores only. Prices correct at time of going to press. See centra.ie for more.
to all of our valued customers, because of your trust s; we are delighted seeing you each day and giving you ent customer service and high quality products. O’Reilly’s Centra Rosscarbery would like to wish you our family a Merry Christmas and a prosperous and peaceful New Year.
If you could change one thing about Christmas day what would it be and why?
I’d definitely change the canned Christmas carols that you hear in shopping malls ... I don’t like all the commercialisation where the true meaning of Christmas gets overshadowed.
What is the oldest Christmas decoration that you still use? We have some glass decorations from the 1940s which we still use.
Regardless of tradition what would your ideal Christmas dinner be? It has to be turkey with stuffing. Jane is a great cook and it’s always divine.
What is your favourite seasonal song?
Silent Night, I remember singing it at Christmas in Bethlehem when I was seven. I can still remember my skin smarting from swimming in the Red Sea.
Where in the world, apart from home would you like to be on Dec. 25th and why?
Udaipur in India. Jane and I spent Christmas there one year. I have never seen a buffet like it in my life, 50 yards-long tables groaning with food. I would definitely go again.
Fachtna & Mary Murray wish all their customers a very Happy Christmas & peaceful New Year
Having a stress-free
Christmas by Paula Burns
‘Tis the season to be jolly’ or so the song tells us. However, for some the Christmas period can be a lot less jolly and a bit more 'bah humbug'. Having Scrooge-type feelings toward the merriest time of the year isn’t uncommon. Often the build-up and anticipation of having the ‘perfect’ Christmas can have an adverse effect, making us feel there’s something missing in our lives or relationships because our Christmas doesn’t match up to the filtered adaptations we see on Instagram. During the rest of the year we don’t seem to place the same high expectations on ourselves. It’s almost as though the jingle of a Christmas song has hypnotic powers sending us into a frenzy of perfection. Family Psychotherapist David Kavanagh advises people to try to understand how they manage stress. ‘In the weeks coming up to Christmas it is important to check in with yourself. Look to how you manage stress throughout the rest
of the year and try to understand how you cope in stressful situations,’ explains David. ‘It may be that you can become cranky or agitated. If you feel that way then it’s time to step back.’ To help cope with managing the stresses that Christmas can put upon us, David recommends introducing some mindfulness techniques into our daily routine to help offset the craziness of the festive period. ‘Mindfulness is something we should all be incorporating into our daily lives,’ says David. ‘Take five or ten minutes of deep-breathing exercises. There are lots of apps to utilise to help cleanse the mind of the junk that can be clogging our minds. Working through that will give you more clarity to be able to deal with the busy few weeks.’ Prioritising goals and planning is also something
that David recommends. He suggests deciding early on what type of Christmas you want. ‘Think about what you want for Christmas. If you have kids and you want to do festive activities in the weeks coming up to it then plan ahead. Book tickets for the panto or to see Santa well in advance,’ suggests David. ‘Having a clear idea of what you want and planning around that will create clarity.’ When it comes to relationships this time of year, they can often fall short of what Hollywood has led us to expect. As David explains we all have different views of what love is. We all experience love in different ways. The language of love even between couples can differ. One person may feel that saying I love you is enough or
splurging on an extravagant gift expresses their love,’ explains David. ‘Whereas the person receiving the big gift may be left disappointed as they feel not enough thought was put into it.’ To avoid friction in such circumstances David believes that by reducing our expectations there is less room for disappointment. Christmas can be a very difficult time for those who are grieving, who have lost somebody close to them. It can feel extremely lonely and the loss can feel more intensified. Grief is unique to everyone. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. David recommends doing what makes sense to you. ‘It’s nice to honour a person's memory at this time of year. Do it in a way that is true to you. It could be a family dinner or a simple walk. Do what feels right for you. Give yourself permission to grieve,’ says David. It seems the secret to a stress free Christmas is planning, lowering expectations with a dash of mindfulness.
In the woods or by the waves? When all the presents have been unwrapped and you have eaten your fill of Christmas fare there is nothing more refreshing than a walk on St. Stephens day. The region around Rosscarbery offer many options for a refreshing stroll including the suite of woods beside Castlefreke, and the beautiful Long Strand close to Rathbarry village. It is believed that the Long Strand dune system was formed as result of a tsunami which occurred in 1743. The area beside Long Strand has been clear felled and will not be replanted as it is being preserved for biodiversity. The main woodland car park is adjacent to Castlefreke
castle with Rathbarry church and graveyard nearby. The woodlands, once part of the Castlefreke estate, came into state ownership after the 2nd world war and were planted with a mixture of conifer and broadleaf trees in the 1950’s. With many options for all the family there are four marked trails and 7km of forest roads to explore. Start at the entrance to the forest located 830 west of the main car park where you will find the Lord Carbery Cross trail. This passes close to the largest memorial cross in Ireland standing at 30 feet tall. It
was erected by Lady Carbery in 1902 in memory of her husband the 9th Baron of Carbery. Standing at the summit of the hill of Croghna, the views of the coastline are spectacular with Galley Head lighthouse being visible on clear days. The trail carries down towards the Long Strand where there is an option to take a 200m shortcut down the hill towards the strand or else carry on the loop back to the forest entrance. There is also a gorgeous river walk loop around a wet
Str oll A
sea
son
al
woodland between Rathbarry village and the quaint Sprigging school where the famous Rathbarry lace was once made by hand.
F
Chocolate biscuit cake We all do it – we buy the box of biscuits and fun size chocolates and inevitably are left with the ones that no-one wants to eat. It is also universally accepted that adding chocolate to anything increases our desire for it a hundred-fold, so rather than ditch the unloved biscuits, make them into a chocolate biscuit cake instead! There are no fixed measures with this – it depends really on what you have to hand and how big your dish is! But these ratios should hold you well… • • • • •
•
•
250g dark chocolate (75%), and 150g milk chocolate (55%) chopped 175g softened butter 4 tbsp golden syrup 200g unloved biscuits, a little bashed 150g unloved chocolates: Maltesers, Twix, Double Decker – anything that has a bit of a crunch and a chew is good. Keep some whole, (like the Maltesers) and cut others in half. Add in 150g of whatever dried fruits you have to hand: glacé cherries, blueberries, cranberries or golden raisins are good. 125g mini marshmallows (optional)
Into a heavy-based pan add the chocolate, butter and golden syrup. Cook over a low heat to melt and combine. Take the pan of melted chocolate mixture off the heat and add the biscuits and chocolates. Add the dried fruits and mini marshmallows, if using. Fold the mixture carefully to coat all of the solid ingredients. Lightly grease a baking dish and pour in the mixture. Use a spatula to push the mixture down to completely fill up the dish and knock it so the mixture settles inside. Refrigerate until fully set. Turn upside down and knock it out to release it. Cut into squares and serve to your delighted little ones!
Chive m ris in tm ute by as Ka
rec te
ipe
Ry
an
Reflections on Christmases past in Rosscarbery By John Moloney On reflection, the Christmas season began in mid-November with the recipes for the Christmas cake and pudding making a seasonal appearance. The ingredients were purchased and the whole operation of getting cake and pudding got underway providing great excitement, especially for the children. Baking the cake in the gas cooker was a tedious business but all done with skill, care and expertise. The wonderful part of Christmas in Rosscarbery was the lead-up to the big day. As our children arrived and grew up their excitement was unbelievable. They would count down the days, ticking them off one by one. Letters were carefully written and sent off to the North Pole. The annual event in Rosscarbery was the School Bazaar held in the Parish Hall. The man himself would arrive with gifts and treats. Our children attended the bazaar every year visiting Santa, having a chat with him and receiving some Christmas goodies. He always knew the parents by their first names much to the children’s surprise. Then a trip to the stalls where various books and items were available. Nearer to Christmas Santa would arrive by horse and trap into the Square and then to Derhams shop in former days. The 8th of December was always a traditional day for mass and shopping. This would entail a trip to Clonakilty or Skibbereen where special discounts were available on purchases. With schools closed, children and parents were out for the day. This really kicked off the season of goodwill along with Christmas songs on radio and the advertisements on TV for Penneys, Coca Cola and Quinnsworth, along with the ESB ad and many more. Santa would be all over the place. Another one of the big items was the Late Late Toy Show on TV. This was a special night when our children were allowed stay up late to watch the late Gay Byrne present his magical show. In later years we would tape the episode and this would be replayed many, many times until the tape wore out. As we were getting closer to the time, I would purchase a Christmas tree from the late Jack Keohane. Putting the tree in place along with coloured lights, tinsel and decorations was a
major operation with many helpers and some critics. The lights, though put away carefully did not always work. Checking carefully for the culprit bulb was part of the ritual. Another great memory from those days was the carol singing in the Cathedral and in St Facthna's Church. Thankfully this event takes place every year along with singing in the Square at the crib. The Christmas tree and lights in the Square is very special at Christmas time in Rosscarbery. On Christmas Eve we brought holly and ivy into the house. The Christmas candle was decorated and lit by the youngest member of
Our children attended the bazaar every year visiting Santa, having a chat with him and receiving some Christmas goodies. He always knew the parents by their first names much to the children’s surprise the family and candles were placed in all windows to welcome the arrival of the baby Jesus. A crib was set up in a prominent place in the house. Midnight mass and the preparation of the turkey and ham were all part of the routine. Children went to bed after some coaxing. Excitement was at a peak as they looked forward to the arrival of Santa. On Christmas Day events kicked off early in the morning with the opening of presents along with the cheer and surprise of the children ringing out all over the house. The Mass on Christmas day is always special with the singing of well-known carols and hymns and a visit to the crib. The annual charity swim at the Warren Strand is a popular event on Christmas morning. On reflection Christmas in Rosscarbery is a time of peace and goodwill as we relax with family and friends. We look forward to another one.
John Moloney ch Rosscarbery Ti airman of dy Towns Associ ation
Christmas Colouring
C & C Joinery
St. Fachtna’s Parish Church Rosscarbery
CONTEMPORARY & TRADITIONAL CARPENTRY FOR QUALITY HOMES Customised Hardwood & Softwood Stairs • Shop Fronts Sliding Sash Windows • External & Internal Doors
“The Story of Christmas”
Nativity Play with live animals and Christmas Carols On Sunday, 22nd December, at 6pm (in aid of Cork Simon Community)
Mass Schedule
Entrance Gates • Machining services on request
CHRISTMAS EVE:
Sacred Heart Church, Lisavaird 6.30pm St. Peter’s Church, Carrigfadda 8.00pm St. Fachtna’s Church, Rosscarbery 10.00pm CHRISTMAS DAY St. Fachtna’s Church, Rosscarbery 9.30am Sacred Heart Church, Lisavaird 10.30am St. Fachtna’s Church, Rosscarbery 11.30am Sliding sash double glazed window with thin glazing bar
Hardwood and softwood curved staircase
White oak cut-string staircase
Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & prosperous New Year Raheen, Castletownshend Road, Skibbereen 028 36960 info@westcorkstairs.ie www.westcorkstairs.ie
part of The Southern Star family We can deliver design, print and digital solutions to promote your business, event or festival
Logos & Brand Identity
Flyers, Posters, Brochures & Magazines
Advertisement Design
Video Services
Social Media Management
Exhibition Stands & Point of Sale
Book Design & Printing
www.starcreative.ie • 028 21200
Southern Star Studio