Local Notes: New Opening, Darkness Into Light, Launch Of Ploughing Championships
Roscommon Comhaltas were the overall winners at Roscommon Easter Parade. Picture shows Larry Brennan, chairperson Roscommon Easter Parade Committee, presenting a cheque for first prize to Lorraine Kenny at the Abbey Hotel. Also in picture are, from front, left: Karen Feerick, and Patricia Morris. Back: Paula Pierse, Anna May Doolan, Marie Doorly, Linda McGarry, Louise King, Pat Pierse, Hazel Murray, Sinéad Healy, Edwina Farmer and parade secretary J.J. Cattigan. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin
The organisers of Daffodil Day in Roscommon Town want to thank all those who made the day such a success. “As another successful Daffodil Day comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make this year’s event so meaningful and we gratefully acknowledge receipt of €26,332.08. The generosity, community spirit, and hard work shown by so many truly brought the day to life,” said Sonya Raftery local voluntary organiser.
“We are deeply grateful to Paul and staff of JJ Harlow’s who contributed to the successful launch allowing us to host the coffee morning and also to David and the Harlow family for the generous use of their premises as a depot for Daffodil Day. Their kindness and community spirit played a vital role and was much appreciated.
“Daffodil Day is built on the kindness and generosity of people, and once again this was clear to see. A special word of thanks goes to all of our wonderful volunteers, without whom the day simply wouldn’t be possible.
Thank you to Niall and the Transition Year students from the Convent of Mercy, whose enthusiasm and energy on Daffodil Day made an enormous difference. Their willingness to volunteer their time collecting for such an important cause is a credit to both themselves and their school.
“Finally, to everyone who volunteered, donated fresh daffodils, purchased a daffodil, or supported the event in any way - thank you. Together, we continue to make a difference for those affected by cancer, and we are deeply grateful for your support. As there are too many people to be mentioned individually, we hope you will accept this acknowledgement and our grateful appreciation.
“Last, but by no means least, we extend a big thank you to the editor and staff of the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald, the staff of Shannonside/Northern sound and Roscommon Parish Newsletter for all the free written, verbal and photographic coverage given to the various events,” said Sonya.
The untimely death of former Roscommon Town publican Willie Dolan is being widely mourned. Mr Dolan, Beechlawn, Ballinasloe, and formerly of Curry, Brideswell, ran the very popular Dolan’s pub in Goff Street, Roscommon Town for many years. He passed away unexpectedly in the tender and loving care of the staff at University Hospital Galway on Wednesday, April 14th. Mr Dolan is predeceased by his wife Ann, daughter Clare, grandson Evan, parents Tommy and Bridget, brothers Jimmy, Eamon, John and Tim, and sister Bridget. Sadly missed by his wife, Mary; sons, Robert, Eoin, Alan and Colin; daughters, Majella and Irene; son-in-law, Ruan; daughters-in-law, Marian, Caitlín and Katie; grandchildren, Cian, Aoife, Hannah and Seánie; brothers, Tommy, Joe and Martin; sisters, Mary and Margaret; mother-in-law, Rose; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, relatives, neighbours and his many good friends. Mass of the Resurrection took place on Monday, April 20th, in St. Michael's Church, Ballinasloe at 12 noon with burial afterwards in Cam Cemetery.
Roscommon Women’s Network CLG (RWN) open AGM will be held on Thursday, April 30th from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Riverside Centre, Athleague. All are welcome to attend to hear about progress over the past year and discuss future plans. Please register your interest by email to info@rwn.ie , calling the office on 084 9621690 or text/what’s app to 086 8099154.
Roscommon Ploughing Championships and family fun day launch night is scheduled to take place in Dalton's Bar, Fuerty on this Thursday, April 23rd from 8.30 p.m.. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Inclusive chair yoga for brain health at Roscommon Town Library on April 22nd from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. This session of meditation and movement is designed to support brain health and overall wellbeing. There will be refreshments after the session offering a chance to chat and meet others taking part in the session. Led by Yin Yoga instructor and chartered psychologist, Dr Marianne Fallon. Booking is required as places are limited.
Would you be willing to provide companionship to an older person locally? ALONE is seeking volunteers in the area. Full training and support provided. If interested, please apply via the ALONE website at www.alone.ie or call 0818 222 024.
The parish says a sincere thank you to parishioners for their generosity towards the recent Easter collection for the support of parish clergy. It is much appreciated.
A warm welcome to Fr. John Akaolisa, a native of Nigeria, who started ministry in Roscommon parish last weekend. He is wished many happy years in Roscommon and Kilteevan.
The Roscommon Career and Employment Expo 2026 takes place this Wednesday, April 22nd at 11 a.m. in Kilbride Community Centre. Connect with employers, explore further education and training options, discover new career opportunities. Free admission, bring along your CV.
The organisers would like to sincerely thank everyone in the community who organised and supported the Kilteevan Coffee Morning and made it such a success. The proceeds of €445 contribute to Roscommon Daffodil Day funds.
There are just over few weeks to go to this year’s walk on May 9th, which is the 15th anniversary of Darkness into Light in Roscommon Town. On Saturday, May 9th at 4.15 a.m. communities from across Ireland and the world will come together to raise vital funds for Pieta's services. These vital services help people impacted by suicide and self-harm. They provide supports to those bereaved by suicide. Every step, every donation, every walk, and every community coming together makes a huge difference in the lives of so many. Register via www.darknessintolight.ie. Pieta depends on the funds generated by Darkness into Light, with over 85% of the charity’s annual income coming from public fundraising.
A collaboration between Roscommon Sports Partnership, Swim Ireland, and Roscommon Leisure Centre, He Swims is a six-week programme for men aged 18+ who are new to swimming or looking to build confidence in the water. The programme gets underway at Roscommon Leisure Centre on April 23rd, 2 p.m. – 2.45 p.m. Register at Eventbrite.
Roscommon Sport Partnership was delighted to welcome Fergal Guihen to its offices following his incredible cycle to Australia. Fergal returned to share his story and to thank Liam for all his work before the journey began. His bike was serviced through a bike maintenance initiative delivered in collaboration with Roscommon LEADER Partnership under the Work Links Roscommon programme and funded by the Healthy Ireland Fund.
Keeping active is one of the best things you can do for your health helping to improve balance, mobility, strength, and overall wellbeing. A six-week activator poles programme at Castlecoote Community Centre offers a gentle, guided way to stay moving at your own pace. It starts May 6th at 10:15 a.m.. Contact 087 6771970 to book your place.
Bingo at the Hyde Centre each Sunday at 8 p.m.. Book and jackpot, €10. Roscommon Gaels looks forward to welcoming you all to The Hyde.
Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Chapel Lane, Roscommon welcomes you to the official opening this Friday, April 24th at 12 noon. Your specialist underwear boutique has now arrived in Roscommon. (Advert)
