Congratulations to Seamus Smith, George Berry, Shane West and Seamus Lennon on winning their third consecutive champion of champions rinks competition last weekend. Good luck to the lads in the finals in Omagha in September.

The newly formed Ballybay Tidy Towns Committee launched their 2017-2020 three year Plan on Monday evening last. The venue for the launch was the old Day Care Centre at the rear of the Municipal Council Offices/Library.Seamus Coyle, Chairman of the Clones Ballybay Municipal District welcomed everyone and immediately praised the work of the Tidy Towns committee. “It’s a credit to the committee to see progress being made. I have seen people out doing great work. I am also delighted that Monaghan County Council commissioned Billy Flynn to formulate a 3 year plan and I hope that all present will focus on the actions contained within”, said Councilor Coyle. Before handing over to Billy Flynn the Chairman added, “It’s important to get complete buy in from the community who in turn will have a pride in their place”.Clones native Billy Flynn had been commissioned to carry out the plan and he produced a fairly detailed piece of work. He has a wealth of experience in producing action plans and has been a Tidy Towns judge for 10years.

Do you have any news that you would like considered for the Ballybay news page. If so you can contact Paul at either This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0861703640.

Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, The Siansa Gael Linn Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served. There will also be a music session in Liam Smyth’s, Ballybay afterwards.

The final of the Mc Gurk Shield will take place at Omagh Outdoor Bowling Green on Tuesday 22nd August between Ballybay and Dungannon. The Ballybay Outdoor club has already won this trophy on two occasions in our time competing in the Border County’s league. With two games left in the Border Counties league we are in third place with a game in hand on Enniskillen who are in the lead at this time. The Town Tournament is down to the semi final stage, with Murnane’s already in the final and awaiting the outcome of the game between Paul Carragher’s and Patricia Mc Cabe’s better known as Soda barrel – that game will be played tomorrow evening 11th August. The games in the Outdoor cup are progressing well now with the following games to be played next week. Corcaghan v BVallybay White, Derryvalley v Ballybay maroon, Clontribet v St. Micahels and Latton v Shercock.Owing to the Monaghan v Dublin game our rinks qualifying games was put off until this Saturday 12th August so there is still time to get your name on the list in the club pavilion. Draws will take place at 9pm on Friday and all games will start at 11am sharp on Saturday.

The annual Eucharistic Healing Novena in honour of our lady of Lourdes in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay started on Tuesday night and will run until Wednesday 16th August. This is the ninth annual Novena and it commences each evening at 7-15pm with the rosary. There will also be a Holy hour each morning from 11am until 12noon. Everyone welcome.

Tanagh Outdoor Education & Training Centre is hosting a Heritage Canoe Paddle on the Dromore River from 10am-3pm on Wednesday the 23rd August. This is a relaxing canoe paddle suitable for all ages, especially those interested in history, archaeology and natural beauty. Booking is essential and can be done by contacting Contact Philomena on 049-5552988.

The local Pearse Brothers B team lost their Reserve Football Division 2A Final last Friday night in Blackhill. On the night Killanny were victorious 0-13 to 1-9. Full report on the sports pages.

Westcare Homecare Ltd. are recruiting female and male care assistants in the Ballybay area.

Applicants must have FETAC Level 5 in Healthcare and Patient Moving & Handling. 

Tel: 071 914 6768 / 087 974 5273

See full pdf here >>

Fair play to Joe Sullivan who organized a 60’s night in the Ballybay Inn last Saturday in aid of the Ballybay Cancer Society. A donation bucket was placed at the door and over €500 was raised. Speaking to the Ballybay news Joe said, “We had a great night and a good dancing crowd and in turn raised a few euros for an excellent cause. The plan from here on is to make the night an annual occasion the weekend of Blessing of the Graves”. Joe would also like to thank Pat O Brien for the use of his premises, John Rutledge for taking photographs which are currently doing the rounds on facebook and everyone who turned up to support the evening.

Local man and Voice of Ireland Winner 2014 Brendan Mc Cahey will be performing in Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre on Friday 4th August. Doors open at 9pm. A great night is guaranteed as one of Ireland top performers comes to Latton. Everyone is welcome to the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre to kick off the August Bank Holiday Weekend.

Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served.

Well done to Philly Gibson and Stephen Duffy who qualified on Saturday 22nd July for the final of the outdoor pairs. The final of this competition will be held on the 2nd September at the Omagh Bowling Club. The rinks competition due to be played this Saturday has been postponed owing to the Monaghan game and will be played on Saturday 12th August starting at 10am. This rinks qualifying competition will take place at the Ballybay Outdoor Club. Now is the time to get your name on the time sheet in the club pavilion as the draw will be made at 8pm on Friday evening (10th August).Another date for your diary is Saturday 19th August when we travel to Fivemiletown to play for the Vincent Cup. This will start at 12-30pm and will be followed by a meal at 4pm in the Clogher Valley Golf Club. Once again you need to put your name on the Travel sheet.As the Ballybay Outdoor bowling club has qualified for the final of the Mc Gurk Shield its hoped to play the game v Dungannon on Tuesday 22nd August at a neutral venue which is the Omagh Bowling Green.

This Sunday is been deemed Gaelic Sunday by the GAA and will commemorate "Sunday 4th August 1918",when the GAA nationally organized a day of playing of Gaelic Games and Cultural activities throughout Ireland. This was in protest at the oppression of occupying forces who sought to have the GAA seek a permit for each event. This Sunday Latton O Rahilly’s will host a wonderful day of entertainment and fun for all the family starting  at 3pm. There will be live entertainment in the Centre from 7pm with Lightening Express and a host of Scor Participants from years past

On Monday next 7th August there will be an historical tour of fields and sites in Latton associated with the GAA. Starting at the Centre at 2pm sharp the tour will include Coyle’s Point and field, Connolly’s Field, Derrygooney (venue of Bawn Erin Hopes), Mc Geough’s Meadow, Rice’s Field and The old Bawn handball alley. This promises to be a very interesting day so if you’re interested be at the O’Rahilly Centre at 2pm.

The 57th edition of the All Ireland Championships took place on Sunday last on the lakes around Ballybay. 89 anglers representing the four provinces including competitors who travelled from as far as Cork checked in at the Wetlands Centre ahead of the five-hour match.Six sections were fished from the shores of White Lake and Loughs Egish and Sillan with the average match weight 5.13kg per angler overall. Different conditions were experienced cross the venues with squally weather and bright spells throughout the day. Lough Egish known for its large roach and Sheila’s Shore was the draw of choice having produced the 2016 Champion, but it was not to be with just the end pegs fishing. The shallower waters although be-set by the dreaded pond weed produced the finest nets of quality fish the area is known for. Bream Rock on White Lake fished particularly well delivering the top 5 winners.Chris Simpson, MAP Fishing of Moira Co. Armagh’s efforts at clearing his swim from weed and his decision to fish the feeder paid off with a 24.750kg bag of quality hybrids and a specimen bream to win the match. Chris whose name will now be firmly on the historical cup received his trophy and €500 prize money from Oliver McGauley President of the NCFFI. Runner-up Gary Drew of Enniskillen was beside Chris at Bream Rock where his end peg produced 23.180kg for him. Neil Mazurek Tony Green and Cathal Hughesfinished 3rd, 4th and 5th respectably from the same venue. Other notable weights came from Shamie Winters 9.400kg at Caravan Park, Sillan; Irish Youth International James O'Doherty 9.64kg at Bairds Shore and Johnny Keith 12.900kg at Lough Egish.A full pay-out of all entry with 5 peg sections and the top five followed the match at the Welcome Inn, Mena Martins. A special presentation was made to Youth International Roisin Bohan, the only female to enter this match this year but whose efforts were to be commended. Roisin had a difficult day on Sheila’s Shore for a handful of fish, catching when other senior anglers didn’t weigh.Cllr Seamus Coyle, Chair of the Clones Ballybay Municipal Council welcomed the anglers and organisers to the area. He commended the recent road improvements at Bairds Shore funded though the IFI NASD programme and delivered by the Council and pledged more improvements to support local angling. He wished the Youth Team members well for the upcoming Championships and the organisers with the running of the event whilst stressing the importance of the promotion of angling in Ireland.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers Race Night will take place Friday 28th July. The venue is Stookie’s Bar – kicking off at 9pm.

The 57th edition of the NCFFI All Ireland Championships for Seniors & Ladies will once again take place in the locality of Ballybay on Sunday next 30th July. The draw for the event will take place at Ballybay Wetland Centre with registration from 8am and the draw at 9. A car draw will be available to those who are genuinely travelling together and mention the fact as they register on the day. Fresh bait from Irish Bait & Tackle Ltd will be available to purchase at the draw. A presentation to the winners with refreshments will take place after the competition. Venue to be confirmed. Entry is €25 with a full payout and winners trophies. Everyone is welcome to take part in the championships irrespective of club, federation or community. Advance booking is essential either online or by phone.http://www.ncffi.ie/events/ncffi-all-ireland/ or by phone to Sean Ward 086 811 5526

Ballybay Pearse Brothers are hosting a breakfast morning this Sunday in their club house. Why not call for a bite to eat anytime between 9am and 12noon.

The coffee morning held at the home of Heather Mc Keown on 5th July has raised a fantastic sum of €2780 which has been donated to Motor Neuron. Speaking to the Northern Standard Heather said, “I would like to thank everyone who attended the coffee morning and everyone who donated prizes. I am delighted that it was a great success and that the boys and myself were able to donate a substantial amount of money to a very worthwhile charity”.

Fresh from massive acclaim at last weekend’s Monaghan Town Country Music Festival 2017,Ciaran Rosney will take to the stage in Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre, Latton on Friday 21st July. On the night Ciaran will be launching his latest music video, much of which was shot in the Latton area, including on the shores of Lough Avaghan. Doors open at 9pm, with a great night guaranteed. Everyone welcome as Latton Centenary celebrations continue.

Tuesday next 25th July 2017will be a Red Letter day for the Latton/Bawn Community as judging takes place in the 2017 All-Ireland Pride of Place.LATTON/BAWN PRIDE OF PLACE JUDGING ON TUESDAY NEXT Tuesday next 25th July 2017will be a Red Letter day for the Latton/Bawn Community as judging takes place in the 2017 All-Ireland Pride of Place.We are delighted that Monaghan County Council nominated the Latton/Bawn area to represent the County of Monaghan in the 32 County Competition. The community work and excellence of everything undertaken by all Latton based organisations and individuals is surely worthy of the Monaghan honour and indeed much greater awaits the Monaghan nominees. Judging will commence at Derrygooney Community Centre, with a presentation to the judges, followed by a tour to The Senator Billy Fox Memorial Park, Bawn Housing and Handball Club. They will then travel via Lacken Bridge and The Five Crosses to Latton Resource Centre and this will be followed by a display by all groups and organisations in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre. All parishioners and friends are invited to attend for 11.30am sharp. The event will conclude with entertainment and complementary lunch for all attending. This is a great occasion for the Aughnamullen West parish, so everyone is requested to help have everything looking its best -hedges trimmed, flowers in place and be in attendance in Latton G.A.A Centre for 11.30am on Tuesday next to really show how PROUD OF OUR PLACE we are.

The Minister for the Arts, Heritage and Culture Heather Humphries TD will officially open the Ballybay Mens Shed on Friday 28th July at 3pm. The Shed would like to extend an invitation to the Ballybay Community to join them on this occasion at their new premises – the Coachouse Buildings, Main Street, Ballybay. There will be a raffle and draw on the day with numerous prizes on offer. Refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome.

A months mind mass will be offered for the soul of the late Noel Lynch, Main Street, Ballybay on Tuesday 25th July in St .Patrick’s Ballybay at 9-30am.

This Saturday 22nd July will see the play off in the Pairs champion of champions competition so make sure that your name is on the time sheet in the club pavilion. The draw will be made at 10-30am on Saturday and playing will commence at 11am and will be played to a finish on the day. Last year’s winners were Matt Mooney and Philip Gibson who have paired up again this year so they are the duo to watch. We will hold the rinks (fours) on Saturday 5th August so now is the time to select your team.There is just four games left in the Border Counties League two at home and two away so it’s all to play for as we are in third place in the league just 5 points from Enniskillen who are in the lead – we play them this week.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers Race Night has been changed owing to the participation of Monaghan in the All Ireland championship series. The race night will now take place on Friday 28th July in Stookie’s Bar – kicking off at 9pm.

Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served.

A number of people have remarked to the Ballybay news correspondent that the newly formed Tidy Towns committee where doing a great job. The fruits of their labours can be clearly seen with cleaner streets, new bins, new flower baskets and tubs throughout. One individual said, “The hard working committee should be congratulated for the wonderful job they are doing. The town looks really well thanks to their efforts”. Litter picks take place every Tuesday night. If you are interested in volunteering just turn up at the ‘Mens Shed’ at 8pm.

The annual Blessing of the Graves takes place on Sunday 30th July. The blessing in Tullycorbett and Ballintra will take place after Sunday morning mass while in Ballybay it will take place at 3pm.

The Wetlands Centre was in full swing last Saturday as it hosted Kerri Rutledge and Darren Duffy’s wedding after party. The venue proved to be absolutely fantastic as it could easily accommodate the bouncy castle and barbeque and with the sun shining all day everyone agreed the venue was amazing.

County Kildare fortune teller Madam Matilda will pay a visit to Ballybay Thursday 13th July. Reading will begin at 5pm and will run until late. Further information is available from Margaret at 0894952604.

The next big event on the Ballybay outdoor green which will be the champion of champions pairs which will take place on Saturday 22nd July starting at 11am. This will be proceeded by the draw at 10-30am. Now is the time to get your name on the timesheet in the club pavilion. The rinks (fours)  is the same competition will be held on Saturday 5th August also starting at 11am.The border counties team had a good game in Letterkenny last week and came home with three points which leaves us in third place in the league with 36 points overall. We have no game this week but we will entertain Enniskillen on Wednesday 19th July when we hope to secure maximum points.The Local league is drawing to a close but there is some vital games left before we can decide which teams will make the playoff.Out thanks to those who helped with the special needs folk on Tuesday last. This will go on for another 3 weeks.  The first game in the outdoor cup took place on Monday night and we now have Corcaghan through to the next round. More details later.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host a fundraising race night in Stookie’s Bar on Saturday 15th July. Anyone interested in sponsoring a race (€100) or buying a horse (€10) should get in touch with any committee member. It should be a great night.

Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served.

Joe Sullivan has organized an 80’s-90’s night in aid of the Ballybay Cancer Society. The evening will take place in the Ballybay Inn on Saturday 29th July. Joe is already taking requests for songs on the night and anyone with a special song which they want played can message Joe on the Ballybay and Its people facebook page. There is no cover charge - you can just throw a few Euro in the bucket. Joe has also promised that there will be no Nathan Carter on the night!!

The final of the Champion of Champions singles took place on Saturday 1st July on the outdoor green. In ideal weather conditions apart from a brief shower during the final game all went off very well with 29 members competing for the honour of playing in the Ulster final on 2nd September at the Omagh bowling club. Winner on the day was our Chairman Benny Smyth who bowled superb in all games and had a comprehensive win over Terry Clark in the final game which was refereed by our President Samuel Gamble. Our Sponsor of the prize for the champion of champions was Gabriel Traynor from Traynor trophies Ballybay and Gabriel made the presentation to Benny and said how delighted he was to be associated with the skillful game of bowls.On Friday 30th June we traveled to Omagh where we played the second round match in the Mc Gurk Shield and we had a brilliant win on their grass green – we now await the winners of Dungannon and Clogher Valley who play on 10th July. The pairs qualifying games in the champion of champions will take place on the Ballybay Green on Saturday 22nd July when all members can compete so now is the time to get your name on the time sheet in the club pavilion.

A revised edition of The Latton Bawn Historical Group’s book ‘Commemorating the Parishioners of Latton & Bawn who were Born or Died in 1916 is now available to purchase from all committee members and in the following outlets – McElroy’s shop, Latton, McDonnell’s & Smyth’s, Ballybay, Paddy Lynch’s, Lisnalong, Maudabawn Co-Op, Hannigan’s, Cootehill, McConnon’s, Ballytrain. Books are €10 each. This is the second & final print of these books, so ‘when they are gone, they’re gone!’

On Friday 21st July Ciaran Rosney will perform in The O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre to launch his latest Music Video. A lot of the new video was recorded in the Latton area. Doors open at 9pm and a wonderful night is guaranteed.

Ballybay’s  neighbour Latton/Bawn has been selected by Monaghan County Council as Monaghan's Pride of Place representatives for 2017. This is a great honour and recognition of the great community voluntary spirit of the area, especially in the Centenary Year of Latton O'Rahilly GAA. Judging takes place on Tuesday 25th July from 10.00am to 1.00p and on that day there will be an opportunity to show what is best in Latton/Bawn. It is planned the judging will commence at Derrygooney Community Centre, with the judges travelling via the Senator Billy Fox Memorial Park, Bawn Handball Club, Lacken Bridge and Fivecrosses for a display and presentation at Latton O'Rahilly GAA Centre. So everyone and all organisations in the parish, along the route and at the venues are urged to have everything looking its best for the day. Please have everything tidy, hedges and grass trimmed, plants and flowers in place. This is a BIG DAY for LATTON/BAWN so let’s be at our best-it’s your place.

On Sunday 6th August Latton G.A.A. will host "GAELIC SUNDAY",commemorating one of the G.A.A.s greatest days - "Gaelic Sunday,4th August 1918",when all G.A.A. Clubs across Ireland organized games and activities in the face of oppression by occupying forces. The afternoon will see games and activities, with a "Scor Concert" taking place on the evening in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre, with it is hoped acts from Scor Sinsear and Scor Na nOg over the years performing on the night. All Scor participants and everyone interested is invited to a meeting in the Club Rooms tonight(Thursday 6th July) at 9.30pm,to discuss and organize "CENTENARY GAELIC SUNDAY-6th AUGUST 2017". So please come along.

The O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre Main Hall will be closed from Wednesday 12th July to Thursday 20th July  (Inclusive) for refurbishment. We apologise for any inconveinence. The Social Centre will be available -for further details please contact Brendan Fitzpatrick on 086-8297666.

An evening of fun and games was held recently by the Ballybay Ladybird Unit and the girls did some fundraising for the Downs Syndrome charity which is sponsored by HB Ice Cream. The girls raised €115 for this worthy charity.  Well done girls.LADYBIRDS AND GUIDES HOLD DOWN SYNDROME FUNDRAISER An evening of fun and games was held recently by the Ballybay Ladybird Unit and the girls did some fundraising for the Downs Syndrome charity which is sponsored by HB Ice Cream.  The girls raised €115 for this worthy charity.  Well done girls.Ballybay Ladybird Guides offer a varied and exciting programme where the girls earn badges, play games, learn about themselves and the world that they live in and how they can become confident young women in an ever-changing society.  This programme is offered to girls and young women aged 5-18, and there are also opportunities for leaders of all ages.  As it is a girl-only movement, girls are free to develop and express themselves in a safe, comfortable, supported setting.If you would like to enrol your daughter in our unit please contact Sheila on 086 8319459.

Two local premises in Ballybay made a recent National top 10 list when it came to the price of 99’s. The survey carried out last week by the Irish Mail saw Smyth’s Newsagent and the Sodabarrel finish 8th and 9th respectively. Both shops were offering 99’s for €1-60c. The cheapest ice cream was available in Duffy’s, Ballaghadreen, Co. Roscommon were 50c would have bought you a welcome ice cream.

Children from the parish won five medals including three gold at the Community Games Athletic finals. The committee would like to congratulate all the children who represented the parish each doing their very best.
Gold medals were won by:
Neasa Doherty - 80m U8.
Aideen Drury - 80m Hurdles U14
Jayne Drury - 200m U16.

Silver medals were won by:
Tom Doherty - 600m U12
Daire Sheridan - 1500m U16.

Excellent performances were given by:
Mark Drury - 100m U10
Eoin Sheridan - 100m U12
Katie Glynn - Ball Throw U12.

Our Gold medal winners will now go forward to represent County Monaghan at the Community Games National Festival in the National Sports Campus, Dublin in August.

The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club has a very busy few weeks ahead with upcoming games in the Border Counties league and also competing in the Mc Guirk Shield. We won the shield in 2013 and again last year so we will be putting in a big effort to retain it this year. The champion of champions competition will be held on Saturday 2nd September at the Omagh club. In order to get the representative from our club we will hold a singles day on Saturday 1st July with the pairs taking place on Saturday 22nd July. All games will start at 11am. If you want to compete you need to put your name on the list in the club pavilion. The draw for the outdoor cup was made last week and there was some very interesting pairings which is as follows: Corcaghan v Muckno, Cootehill v Ballybay White, Ardaghey v Derryvalley, Scotshouse v Ballybay maroon, St. Michaels v Keady, Latton v Shercock while Clontibret Saffron have a bye. These games will take palce on any day by arrangement with the committee.
On June 27th we will host a number of Special Needs groups. This has become an annual event and we are all looking forward to having them.

Latton O'Rahilly GAA will welcome Clontarf G.A.A. Club (U14 boys) and San Francisco G.A.A. (U14 girls) for the finals of the 2017 John West Feile Peil Na nOg. Over 5,000 participants are being hosted by Clubs across Counties Monaghan, Cavan and Fermanagh. Games commence tomorrow, Friday 23rd June, with Latton playing at Cremartin at 4pm, followed by a reception for the Clontarf and San Francisco visitors in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. with refreshments and entertainment. On Saturday Latton play games in Crematin at 11am, 12 noon and 3.30pm. Later that evening the Monaghan v Down game will be shown live in the G.A.A. Centre from 6.30pm and there will be music from 9pm. On Sunday morning Latton participate in the parade and Finals in Clones at 11am. Everyone is invited to attend all games and events in the G.A.A. Centre a marvelous exhibition of Gaelic Games and activities in Latton for Centenary Year.

As the Latton O'Rahilly Club continues the Celebrations of their Centenary work continues on The Museum of G.A.A. Anyone with photographs, newspaper articles or any materials connected to Gaelic activities in the Latton/Bawn Area are requested to bring them to the G.A.A. Centre on any Monday between 10.00am and 12.30pm,where the materials will be scanned and returned immediately. If you know of any materials relating football, hurling, camogie, ladies football, handball, scor, etc please contact Patrick Hamilton on 086-2686619 or Seamus Coyle on 087-6814067 or call to the GAA Centre on Mondays between 10am and 12.30pm. Centenary Ties are available from the G.A.A. Centre. These are limited and are specially engraved for 100 years of Latton G.A.A. Centenary Flags are available by contacting Seamus Coyle on 087-6814067 or from the G.A.A. Centre. There will be a Club Committee Meeting on Thursday 29th June at 9pm.

Mary Mc Guinness was like the cat that got the cream last weekend as she witnessed the christening of her great grandson Ruan. The proud nanny seen the child christened in the same robe she wore 89 years ago. Congratulations to Ruan and his parents Donna and Colin.

On Friday 21st July Ciaran Rosney will perform in The O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre to launch his latest Music Video. A lot of the new video was recorded in the Latton area. Doors open at 9pm and a wonderful night is guaranteed.

A great big thank you to MS Ireland for their very kind donation to Christ Church following Trad on the hill held in Christ Church Ballybay on Sunday 4th June, a very enjoyable evening of traditional music that was thoroughly enjoyed by all, many thanks to Kevin Curran who organised the event and to all involved.

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltach Affairs, Heather Humphreys,pictured with Rev Neal Phair and tradional musicians at the Trad on the Hill concert in Christ Church BALLYBAY on Sunday June 4th

Saturday last the 10th June saw the first of the trophies played for at the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club when almost 30 members competed for the Jimmy Gibson Memorial Shield. On one of the hottest days of the year play started at 11am and was finished just after 5pm. This was played in a singles format with all throwing 4 bowls. The final game was outstanding and featured Matt Mooney and Jocky Gibson and it was very fitting to see Jocky take home the Shield with what he said was the best bowls he ever played. The Chairman Benny Smyth made the presentation to Jocky at the end and said it was very fitting that Jocky won it as he played superb bowls all day and had established himself as one of the leading bowlers in the Border Counties league.
Our next competition will be the singles in the Champion of Champions which will take place on the green on Saturday 1st July starting at 11am so now is the time to put your name down on the draw sheet in the club pavilion. The Town Tournament is still on-going with most teams reaching the second round more about that next week.

A number of locals have expressed concern that the local Bank of Ireland branch will no longer be offering cash, foreign exchange and coin services from 9th August. It has been suggested that locals while in the bank should voice their disapproval and ask that the bank reconsider their actions. There is a lot of concern that this could be the beginning of the end for banking in the town.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host a fundraising race night in Stookie’s Bar on Saturday 15th July. Anyone interested in sponsoring a race (€100) or buying a horse (€10) should get in touch with any committee member. It should be a great night.

Tullycorbet CCÉ would like to thank everyone within the branch and county board, who helped make the County Fleadh weekend such a success. Many groups/individuals made vital contributions to the weekend’s success. We thank Tullycorbet Community Centre Committee, Ballybay Community College/Recreation Centre, Ballybay Chamber of Commerce, Monaghan County Council, Comhaltas Meitheal Fund, Oriel Sailing Club & Christchurch, Minister Heather Humphreys, Fr La Flynn and Rev. Neil Phair, Corduff Pipe Band & O’Neill Pipe Band Clontibret, local businesses who provided financial support and hosted sessions and all musicians, parents and helpers. The branch where delighted with the success of the weekend’s events, and had many medal winners in the Fleadh competitions. Full details of these will be on the Tullycorbet CCÉ Facebook page, and in the county board Comhaltas notes.

The County Monaghan Athletics Finals take place this Saturday 10th June at the Clones Peace Link. Events will begin at 11am with U8, U10 and U12 events taking place before lunch and U14 and U16 events on after lunch (starting at approx 1.30pm). Entrance charge on the day of €3 per adult/ €5 per family. Programmes will also be on sale at €2 each. Tea, coffee and snacks will be available to buy in the Peace Link Centre. Good luck to the following local athletes who are representing our area at the county competitions:
Neasa Doherty - 80m U8, Mark Drury - 100m U10, Eoin Sheridan -100m U12, Tom Doherty - 600m U12, Katie Glynn - Ball Throw U12, Aideen Drury - 80m Hurdles U14, Emma Glynn - 1500m U16, Jayne Drury - 200m U16 and Daire Sheridan - 1500m U16.

A Traditional Music Session Night will take place in the Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre on Saturday next 10th June commencing at 9pm. All musicians/singers and artists are invited along for a great night of traditional entertainment. Refreshments will also be served.

The distribution of flags and registration of same will be available at the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre, Latton on Saturday evening next10th June from 8.30pm. The flags and registration is available to all families and friends of a deceased person, who were associated with Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Club in any way over the past 100 years. Flags available to be placed on their place of rest both locally or across the world. A limited number of specially Centenary Crest Engraved Ties have been commissioned by the Club and are available in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre. Numbers are limited as these are Souvenir items.

The Ballybay and its People facebook page recently received the following message – “Hi thank you so much for accepting me in your group. I'm not from Ballybay but I'm hoping someone might be able to help me get in touch with a lady whose maiden name was Bernadette Nesbitt from Ballybay. We did nurse training together from 1977-1980 in London. We were best friends until I left in 1981 to come to Oz and as was the case back then it was just too difficult to stay in touch. I'm originally from Meath , my Maiden name was Margaret O Brien. A few of us from our class is having a get together in London in Nov and as I'll only be there for a week I'd really love to make contact with Bernie Thank you so much..I remember her mum was May Nesbitt I met her once”. Numerous people have replied and it has been established that Bernadette was a daughter of Tony Nesbitt and lived on the Castleblayney Road and attended St Louis, in Monaghan. She married a man by the name of Guthrie and is living in England. Well thankfully the story has a happy ending. Local lady Patricia Conlan was key as she contacted Bernadette’s sister Rosaleen and Margaret and Bernadette are now back in touch. And for the record Bernadette is a nurse in the Nightingale Hospital in Westminster, London. So while facebook often gets lots of critism thankfully on this occasion it proved to be a power of good in reuniting two old friends.

Ballybay Cúl Camp will run from 17th - 21st July, catering for boys and girls from 5 - 13 years old. The camp will operate from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. each day, costing €60 for one child, your second child is €50 and every sibling after that is €40. The Co-Ordinator for this camp is Colin Malone.

Kayak lessons will be available on Wednesday evenings at the Wetlands centre. Further information is available by contacting the centre on 042 9748022.

The County Fleadh which is being held in Ballybay and Tullycorbett kicked off Thursday 1st June and runs for the next four days. Locals should get their flags and bunting out in order to welcome the large number of musicians from all over the county. Minister Heather Humphreys will formally launch the Fleadh on Thursday in Tullycorbet Hall at 8pm. On Friday there will be a heritage trail through Ballybay. Anyone interested in attending this should assemble at the Riverdale Hotel at 7-30pm. Later in the evening (9pm) there will be a music session in Liam Smyth’s. On Saturday the Community College will host competitions from 10am and there will be numerous music sessions in the town pubs. Sunday will be the busiest of the festival with a feast of activity. There will be music in St. Patrick’s at 12-15pm and this will be followed with open air concerts throughout the afternoon in the town centre. Tullycorbet Community Centre will host Sean No’s and set dancing from 2pm. At 4-30pm there will be a marching band parade. This will commence at the Community College. The Ballybay Inn is the place to be from 6pm when the best young musicians in the county will perform. History buffs can then head to Christchurch where there will be a lecture on the famous Ballybay piper William Clarke at which will be followed by a concert in the church at 7-30pm.

Ballybay Social Club has their annual summer bus trip on Friday 9 June next. The outing is to Blackrock with morning coffee/tea at Broomfield and dinner on the way home at Watters Castleblayney. Meet for the bus at the Riverdale Hotel Car Park at 10 am. All in fee €15. Everyone is welcome. Further details from Charlie 086 0660270.

Everyone is welcome to a Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry on Friday 2nd June 2017 at 8pm. This is organised by Ronnie & Carey Killops of the Faith Mission. . All welcome. Plan to come, and bring a friend. Refreshments afterwards.

The organizers of the recent church gate collection in aid of Epilepsy would like to thank everyone who helped or supported in anyway. The amount collected was €705.

Good luck to all competing in the County Fleadh this weekend, especially members of Tullycorbet CCÉ. All in the branch are looking forward to hosting the county fleadh for the first time. Theres a great program of events, including a session with teachers from around the county in Stookie’s on Saturday at 9:30pm. Full list of events is available in the county board Comhaltas notes and on the Tullycorbet CCÉ Facebook page

Camphill will host their annual summer open day on Saturday 17th June at Robb’s Farm from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is absolutely free and amongst the many stalls there will be face painting, candles, bric-a-brac, weaving, and numerous crafts. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac are most welcome.

Defibrillator (AED) Refresher Training will be held in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Tuesday, 6th June from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. for all those from the Tullycorbet and Ballybay areas who were previously fully trained in CPR/AED. Please note that prior to this date, an individual text will be forwarded to everyone who has been trained by this group, to advise of the allocated time slots for attending. This is an invaluable community resource and regular refresher training is imperative.

An op-en Car Boot Sale will take place at Cuan Mhuire on Monday 5th June. All car boot sellers welcome. There will be a working forge demonstration and old style butter churning. Should be a great day and admission is free.

Communities across Monaghan planning 7 Street Feast celebrations so far including in Glaslough, Newbliss, Emyvale and Clones

3 weeks until Street Feast 2017 National Day of Street Parties and Community Celebrations

Over 1000 Street Feast Parties registered to date with 7 parties planned for Monaghan so far!

To register and receive your Free Party Pack* for Sunday, 11th June 2017 log onto www.streetfeast.ie

Last Saturday's Spring Clean was a major success with the Tidy Towns Committee along with a number of volunteers collecting a full skip of litter and waste from the town and the approach roads leading to the town. Speaking to our website the Tidy Town Chairman Martin Gleeson said, "We had a great day last Saturday and all the volunteers can be very proud of their efforts. I would like to thank the hard working Tidy Towns Committee and the volunteers for a job well done. We had lots of fun and it turned out to be a great social ocassion as well as a good days work. I would also like to thank Monaghan County Council for supplying the litter pickers, high visibility vests, plastic bags and disposal gloves".

Secret preparations have been underway recently to mark the special and significant birthday of a local lady-whose picture appears in this week’s edition of the Northern Standard-possibly in the classified section (look for an angel).
There is still some confusion as to what age this lady is-indeed rumour has it that she is not sure herself-despite taking her tablets! Anyone with any information regarding her age is asked to contact the Ballybay News or indeed any family member so that her cake will have the right number on it!
We wish this special lady a very Happy Birthday and hope that despite the passage of time she will be able to celebrate in style

London College of Music Exams will be taking place on Saturday May 27th. Pupils sitting the exams will be contacted as regards their time. Preparations for the Fleadh are well underway, make sure to like Tullycorbet CCÉ on Facebook to keep up to date.

There was a full turn out of members at the Ballybay indoor Bowls AGM held in the Bowling Pavilion on Thursday evening last. The Chairperson Angela Rutledge gave a comprehensive report of the events of the past year. She also thanked the various people that helped her in the smooth running of the club especially the Secretary Cora and Treasurer Rose. Both gave their reports and the financial report showed that we are in a healthy state for another year. Our table quiz that we held during the year was a big help as the membership was down this year and every effort should be made to get some new members for the coming year.
There is not a lot of change in personnel at the top table with Angela being elected in the chair for another year and Cora and Rose holding on to their positions. The position of PRO was discussed at length and it was felt that it was time for a replacement of the present scribe so Mr. Quiz Book Stephen Duffy will be keeping you informed of all the happenings at the club for the coming year.
It was agreed that we return to the same venue for the coming season which will start on the second Monday in September. The meeting concluded with Angela wishing JJ Duffy well as he is currently in hospital.

On Sunday last five St. Brigids players namely Megan Miller, Angie Mc Guirk, Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden and Megan Reilly were memebrs of the Monaghan U16 team which beat Tyrone in the Ulster U16 B final. The girls are pictured with County mentor and St. Brigids stalwart Angela Rutledge. Missing from the picture is John Smith who is a selector with the team. Monaghan beat Tyrone 8-14 to 3-11 and will now play in an All Ireland semi final.

Congratulations to Isaiah Dixon, Adam Steele, Tyana Pratt-Clarke, Joshua Dixon, Blake Lees and Jaeden Lees from Christ Church Ballybay who were confirmed in St Maeldoid's church in Castleblaney  on Sunday the 14th May 2017 last at 3:30pm. Also pictured are the Rt.Rev John Mc Dowell and Rev Neal Phair.

London College of Music Exams will be taking place on Saturday May 27th. Pupils sitting the exams will be contacted as regards their time. Preparations for the Fleadh are well underway, make sure to like Tullycorbet CCÉ on Facebook to keep up to date. Well done to ‘Céim le Chéile’, who performed so well at the TG4 recording of ‘An Ríl Deal’. The children and their families had a great day at the RTÉ studios. Congrats to Angela and Pauline for making this opportunity possible. Congrats also to Tomasina and Aoife who also performed so well in the Monday recording. The episodes will be shown later in the year.

The local league is progressing very well and all teams are putting in a big effort to have the games played on the allocated evenings. Also a lot of teams are turning up for their practices. St. Michaels of Cootehill is the team in form at the moment and is the leader in points so far.
Just a reminder that the Jimmy Gibson memorial trophy is to be played on Saturday 10th June so now is the time to put your name on the time sheet in the pavilion.
At our weekly meeting on Monday evening best wishes were extended to one of our long serving members JJ Duffy who has been in hospital for the last week.
Our next Border Counties League match is on May 24th away to Enniskillen which has one of the best grass greens that we visit so we are hoping for a few points there.

Recitation - Good luck to Nial Grogan and Sinead Duffy who are taking part in The County Community Games Finals in Inver College, Carrickmacross at 7pm on Friday evening. Niall won a Bronze medal at The National Community Games Finals in 2016.
Gaelic Football - Good Luck to our Under 10 Mixed Gaelic Football team managed by Peter Ward who are presently playing matches against different teams.
Team - Adam Dixon, Caolan Treanor, Dara Mc Elmeel, Jason Sheridan, Joseph Lennon ,Michael Mc Mahon, Nathan Duffy, Oisin Duffy, Oisin Quinn, Sam Duffy, Sean Ward, Simon Du Plessis, Shane Duffy, Shane Eoghan Duffy, Stephen Duffy and Thomas Conlon.
Athletics and Cycling - Anyone interested in Athletics or Cycling please contact Sharon 9748110 or Maire 9748955 on or before Wed 24th May as we will not be having a local area competition.

Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Club continue with the celebration of their Centenary 1916-2017 with the "LATTON CENTENARY CARNIVAL" taking place from Friday 26th May to Sunday 28th May. A huge range of events have been organized. On the Friday night "Mr.Centenary" will be selected in the Club House. Ten footballing greats from various clubs within the county will fight it out for the €500 prize money. On Saturday 27th May the Club host Jim Devine (voted Irelands Best Live Band 2016. Doors open at 8pm and tickets are available from all club members. There will be prizes galore on the night including Best Jiving Couple, Best Dressed Cowboy and Best Dressed Cowgirl. On Sunday there will be mass at 10am and afterwards there will be a number of wreath laying ceremonies.
The Emily Coyle and Jack Conlan Memorial Perpetual Tournament Finals take place at the O'Rahilly GAA Pitchs at 2pm on Sunday 28th May. At 7.30pm on the evening of Sunday 28th May "The Centenary Stone" will be unveiled by Ruth Sweatman, a granddaughter of The O'Rahilly, National and Club Patriot. There will also be a Tree Planting to be performed by Uachtaran, C.L.G.,Aoghan O'Fearghaill. Later that evening The O'Rahilly GAA Centre will host "Brendan McCourt Live" from 8pm, with the presentation of "Centenary Player/Service Certificates" to those who played with the Club in the historic decades of the 1980s and 1990s, all who played or were associated with the club during the 1980s and 1990s are invited to attend for presentation Service Award.

Monaghan LEADER has announced details of the latest ‘time-limited call’ to assist individuals/groups to prepare conservation plans for protected structures and devise plans for their use as a tourism facility. 

This ‘time-limited call’ is designed to encourage owners of protected structures to consider the conservation of their buildings as a tourism product/service. The call for built heritage funding is open to accept completed ‘expression of interest’ forms from 8th May 2017 until the call closes on 16th June 2017. This opportunity is open to all private individuals or groups with property in County Monaghan and further information about this call is available from this link: www.midl.ie/index.php/leader/built-heritage-call

Interested parties should contact Monaghan LEADER with a view to organising an appointment to discuss this funding opportunity and review future potential capital funding for your project. If you are interested, please contact the LEADER development staff at the Monaghan Integrated Development office on 042-9749500 (select option 7) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Oriel Sailing Club presents a free concert by local traditional musicians as part of the Monaghan Fleadh Christ Church in Ballybay, Co. Monaghan Sunday 4th of June 7.30pm to 10 pm

Programme of Events
7.30: Heather Humphries officially opens the concert
7.40 – 8.15: Nellie Fisher will give a short talk on the life and times of William Clarke, the local Ballybay traditional uilleann piper
8.15 -10.00: Francis McMahon will introduce the musicians
Booking essential: To book please contact the MS Ireland Northeast Regional Office on 042 9754304
All donations from the concert go to MS Ireland Monaghan Voluntary Branch/Christ Church

A great achievement was celebrated last week for two local secondary school music teachers who reached the final of the annual Walton’s Music for Schools Competition 2017 held in the National Concert Hall, Dublin. The director of the Royal Irish Academy of Music, Deborah Keliher and the infamous composer and music guru, Bill Whelan, judged this years extraordinary final concert in the NCH. The coveted title in this prestigious competition went to Micheal Kerr of Edenane, Ballybay with his performing arts group from Scoil Mhuire in Trim, Co. Meath with a piece entitled ‘Music makes us strong’. The runners up in the completion were Coláiste Chill Mhantain from Co. Wicklow under the tuition of Claire McAdam from Drumar, Ballybay with her Music Ensemble ‘Love grows with each Piece’.
The open nature of the competition, now in its sixth year, offers schools the opportunity to think and work creatively with students, developing a creative and original musical project. Furthermore, the Competition awarded a total of €10,000 worth of vouchers for musical instruments, accessories, books, music technology or PA equipment from Waltons Music, to be divided among six winning primary and post-primary schools. Both Monaghan natives managed to scoop the two top prizes in the post-primary category for their individual schools in vouchers to the sum of €3,000 and €1,500. This was a remarkable achievement for these two local teachers who both attended Ballybay N.S. and Our Lady’s Secondary School Castleblayney were their musical journey was fostered and nurtured.

Ballybay Tidy Towns is looking for plenty of volunteers to help with the spring clean up!! This will take place on Saturday 20th May. Please come and give your help to improve the area in which you live. - Whether that is in the town, residential areas or the outskirts of the town. Do your bit to make our community the best it can be. Contact Eithne 0868218706 or Olivia 0876481082 if you have any queries.

Tullycorbet CCE will host this year’s Monaghan County Fleadh in Ballybay on the June Bank Holiday weekend (1st to 4th June). Most of the competitions will be held at the Recreation Centre, Tullycorbet Community Centre and Community College however you can be guaranteed that there will be lots of trad music and craic throughout the town. Spread the word and keep the weekend free. Minister Heather Humpries will launch the event in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Thursday 1st June. As well as the music there will be a heritage trail, a pipe band parade and a lecture on the famous Ballybay Piper William Clarke. Watch this space for lots more details over the coming weeks.

Christ Church Aughnamullen is holding a coffee morning and cake sale in Aughnamullen School House on Saturday 20th May from 10-30am until 1pm. Proceeds are in aid of the church repair funds. There will be quiz sheets available at the event. All are welcome.

The AGM of the Ballybay Indoor Bowling club will take place on Thursday 18th May at 9pm in the Outdoor Pavilion, Town Park, Ballybay. The Chairperson Angela Rutledge would like all members to attend as there is some pressing matters to attend to.

Christ Church Ballybay is holding a gardening evening “Grow Your Own” in aid of the Church restoration fund, with guest speaker Jenny Blackburn from Green Fingers, Monaghan. It will be held on Friday 19th May 2017 at 8pm in the Church Hall. Everyone welcome for a great evening of gardening tips, spot prizes, plant stall and a buffet supper served. Admission €10.

The Annual General Meeting of the Ballybay/Clones Fianna Fail Comhairle Ceanntair will take place in the Creighton Hotel, Clones TOMORROW NIGHT, Friday 12th May at 8.30pm Sharp. All Fianna Fail Party members and supporters are urged to attend, as the party reviews the past year and plans for the year ahead in the Ballybay/Clones L.E.A. and nationally. All issues will be discussed, with local Oireachtas Members, Brendan Smyth T.D. Niamh Smith T.D. , Senators Robbie Gallagher and Diarmuid Wilson and Ballybay/Clones County Councillor, Seamus Coyle will be in attendance.

The 2017 National Fianna Fail Collection will take place across the Ballybay/Clones L.E.A. on the weekend of Saturday/Sunday 20th/21st May.

The fine summer weather has brought out the bowlers to the outdoor green in the Town Park, Ballybay. The local league is now well underway with Muckno the early leaders. Last year’s winner Ballybay White had a 5 to 1 win over Ballybay Maroon. There is a few very interesting games to be played this week when we have Clontibret saffron take on Derryvalley and St. Michael’s Cootehill playing Shercock who I must say are putting in the hours of practice. The Ballybay club had two teams competing in the Enniskillen fun day on Saturday last the 6th May and the team of Uel Gamble, George Berry, Seamus Smyth and skip Seamus Winters were runners up to Letterkenny team. The Ballybay team played very well and where holding shot until the last bowl. Our other team had to be content with getting sunburned!! The Town Tournament is progressing slowly but this week should see a lot of games played.
A date for your diary will be Saturday 10th June when the Jimmy Gibson Perpetual Trophy will be played for. Now is the time to put your name down on the time sheet on the clubs notice board as its limited to the first 24 names.

The Waters and Communities Office are hosting public meetings within the coming weeks to discuss the natural waters of county Monaghan. If you are interested in water quality, angling, heritage, biodiversity, amenity use or issues affecting your local waterways then this is an opportunity to share your views.

We will present information on the latest draft River Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2018 - 2021 along with details on how you can input into the final plan. The Waters & Communities office aims to get local communities more involved in valuing and protecting our local waters and these meetings provide an opportunity to have your say.

Gretta McCarron, Community Water Officer for Monaghan will present this information and facilitate a discussion on the issues raised. There will be refreshments after the meeting and opportunities to network. The times, dates and venues of the meetings are set out below. For further information contact Gretta on 085 808 5756 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Visit www.watersandcommunities.ie and like us on Facebook.

YWCA, North Road Monaghan, Tuesday 25th April 7.30 – 8.30 pm

Ulster Canal Stores, Clones, Wednesday 3rd May 7.30 – 8.30 pm

The Workhouse, Carrickmacross, Tuesday 9th May 7.30 – 8.30 pm

Ballybay man Vincent Mc Aviney recently achieved a hole in one while playing the 15th hole of the Royal Jersey Golf Club. This is the second time Vincent has scored a hole in one at the course and believe it or not his playing partner on the day Neil Wade had also been with him when he managed his first hole in one two years ago. The success was reported in the Jersey Evening Post on 19th April.

Good Luck to our Under 10 Mixed Gaelic Football team managed by Peter Ward. Team - Adam Dixon, Caolan Treanor, Dara Mc Elmeel, Jason Sheridan, Joseph Lennon,Michael Mc Mahon, Nathan Duffy, Oisin Duffy, Oisin Quinn, Sam Duffy, Sean Ward, Simon Du Plessis, Shane Duffy, Shane Eoghan Duffy, Stephen Duffy and Thomas Conlon. Good luck to Katie Glynn in the Handwriting competition taking place Thursday and Friday evening in Castleblayney. Anyone interested in Talent, Culture Corner, Choir or Pitch n Putt please contact Sharon 9748110 or Maire 9748955 before Wednesday 3rd May.

St. Brigid's had a great turn out at their Table Quiz which took place on Friday 7th April in Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre. We would like to thank a few people who helped to organized the event Ann Mc Guirk, Eileen Brennan, Collette Mc Meel, Linda Mc Geough, Patricia Gibson and the St. Brigid's committee members, we would also like to thank the Ballybay Pearse Brothers for the use of the Clubhouse and to Stephen Duffy (The Quiz Master). Thanks to all the Parents and Kids for coming and taking all the refreshments. Finally we would like to thank the Senior Girls that got the spot prizes for the raffle on the night from local business. The Club would like to thank these business for donating the spot prizes and also would like to thank the business for their continuing support, Ballybay Service Station, Ballybay Pharmacy, Bills Butchers Ballybay, H2O Sheila Mc Cabe, H2O Sharron Sheridan, Ballybay China Town, Bluebells Ballybay, Cuan Mhuire Ballybay, Centra Ballybay, Ann Mc Guirk, Julie Mc Guirk and Mc Nally's Service Station Monaghan. If we have left anybody out were truly sorry.

Ballybay Tidy Towns is holding a public meeting on Thursday 4th May at 8pm above the library. We are looking for plenty of volunteers to help with the spring clean up!! This will take place on Saturday 20th May. Please come and give your help to improve the area in which you live. - Whether that is in the town, residential areas or the outskirts of the town. Do your bit to make our community the best it can be. Contact Eithne 0868218706 or Olivia 0876481082 if you have any queries.

Thank you everybody who supported Alice Crawford's Mad Hatter Tea Party. It was a beautiful sunny day and so many people joined us for Tea, Coffee and cakes. Thank you to everyone who gave generous donations to support the Future Sense Development Projects in India. A fabulous €2000 was raised. Joanne Morgan won the IPod Touch in the Dingbat Quiz. We really appreciate everyone who helped behind the scenes on the day and we thank everybody for their generosity.

Tullycorbett Drama Group will stage ‘For Love or Money’ one final time in Tullycorbett Community Centre on May Bank Holiday Monday (1st May). The curtain’s up at 8-30pm sharp and all proceeds from the performance are in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society.

Classes have now resumed after the Easter break. This will be a busy term as branch members prepare for the County Fleadh and the London College of Music examinations. In preparation for the County Fleadh, the branch have been liaising with the Ballybay Chamber of Commerceand a comprehensive programme of events is being planned. Full details will be given next week.

Monaghan Integrated Development in partnership with Third Age in Co Meath is facilitating a Fáilte Isteach group to start in Ballybay. Fáilte Isteach groups are running all over Ireland and involve volunteers welcoming migrants into the community through weekly English conversation classes. We are looking for volunteers from the Ballybay area who are interested in becoming involved. No experience or qualifications are necessary as training and ongoing support is provided.

If you have two hours spare a week, would like to meet new people and wish to put your talents to good use while making a difference, why not get involved.

Making the first step is easy, all you have to do is contact Regina Byrne, Monaghan Integrated Development, tel: 042-9749500, Ext. 5 or e -mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Fáilte Isteach is supported by Monaghan Integrated Development under the social inclusion programme SICAP. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2015 – 2017 is funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Social Fund and includes a special allocation under the Youth Employment Initiative.

Tullycorbett Drama Group has agreed to put on one last performance of their successful play “For the Love of Money” in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society. This performance will take place in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Monday 1st May with the curtain up at 8-30pm. Great night guaranteed with all proceeds to a very worthy cause.