Community notes Jan 6th

New Year Ring In

The traditional ringing in of the New Year was performed as usual in Timoleague. Crowds began to walk up Chapel Hill and The Chapel Steps to congregate in front of the parish church as the clock wound its way to mid-night. Liam Ryan had the bonfire lighting in the dust bin apparatus that was the brain child of the late Percy Ryan. Greetings were exchanged among the gathering as fireworks were set off into the cool midnight sky from further down in the village. It was a sight to behold. Joe Walsh was on hand to ring the old penal bell which is mounted on a belfry in the church grounds. While Joe got into the rhythm, the crowd counted down the clock. The sound of the bell filled the air as all sang a few verses of Auld Lang Syne with arms intertwined. Among the gathering were a number of Ukrainians who were made especially welcome. They sang a song in their native tongue that they told us was what they would traditionally sing in their home land to usher in the New Year. All were united in wishing for good tidings for 2024 as the crowd split into smaller groups to discuss local and world affairs.

Tractor Run

Over the past few years, the Kilbrittain Tractor Run has captured the imagination of the masses. This charity event begins at Kilbrittain and travels the coast road to Timoleague before it heads for Courtmacsherry and on out through Barryroe. This year’s cavalcade was one of the biggest on record with the leading tractors seen entering Courtmac while those at the rear still visible rounding the bend across the water at Burren Pier.

New Years Greetings

I would like to extend New Years greeting to all readers of the Southern Star and especially to the loyal followers of the Timoleague Notes.