Sunday, May 25, 2014

Older Posts on Realboyle.com

Prime Time TV Invitation for next Tuesday

Aisling Brady wrote: I am contacting you from Prime Time in RTÉ regarding our programme on Tuesday 27th of May. We will be discussing 'Water Charges' and I was wondering if you would be interested in attending? Also could you recommend groups or contacts that would be worth getting in touch with regarding the programme.
Audience arrive at 8:15pm to RTÉ Television Studios, Donnybrook. You can book audience seats by calling 01 208 3494 or you can email primetimeaudience@rte.ie. You can also submit comments by emailing aisling.brady@rte.ie. Although please note we cannot guarantee talking time on the programme. There is ample parking available to those who wish to attend. Audience go to the RTÉ Television Studios.

Kilronan Castle & Spa

Pink Ribbon
View Full Information Poster [here...]


Boyle GAA - Eoin Lavin

It has become necessary to postpone until a later date the unveiling and blessing of a commemorative seat in the Abbey Park in memory of young Boyle footballer the late Eoin Lavin. It was scheduled to take place on Sunday next in conjunction with an O’Rourke Cup game between Boyle and Strokestown. The game itself has had to be postponed, so it has been decided to defer the unveiling and hold it in conjunction with another game.
 

Irish Water - exemptions for Co Roscommon users

Irish Water says a special exemption should be made by the Commission of Energy Regulation when introducing water charges in Co. Roscommon, and that of the 1.8 billion euro is being invested in the national water network removing boil water notices in places like Boyle and Castlerea will be a priority.

Open Table Restaurant - Open now

Martin Guihen's Open Table restaurant on the Crescent is now open from 12pm serving lunches and evening meals, seven days a week.

The Bazaar Opening

Glen and Diane Charles will open The Bazaar on Bridge Street soon, hopefully with fingers crossed that interior decor and everything gets finished. The Bazaar will specialise in sweets, stationery, Internet access and coffee shop. We wish Diane and Glen many happy, profitable days and years trading in Boyle in this well-placed town centre location.

The World according to Billy Connolly

"When people say 'it's always the last place you look'. Of course it is. Why would you keep looking after you've found it?"
"There are two seasons in Scotland: June and Winter."
"Don't vote, it just encourages them."
"Who discovered we could get milk from cows, and what did he THINK he was doing at the time?"
"Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. After that who cares? He's a mile away and you've got his shoes!"

King House

King House
Strange lighting from behind where I stood as I took this photo!!


Hen party woman claims rape by stag gang

Irish Independent report: A woman on a hen party has alleged that she was attacked and raped by five men on a stag party in Carrick-on-Shannon. As Gardai have interviewed all five men at the centre of the woman’s claims along with some of their other friends and her pals. A number of searches have also been carried out by Gardai involved in the probe which has led to the seizure of a number of cannabis plants at a ‘small grow house’ which was connected to one of the suspects. Everyone that is alleged to have been involved in the incident had a lot of alcohol on board. [more...]

Marians Fashions 60th Birthday and Shannonside FM

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Marians staff with Joe Finnegan, Shannonside FM

Joe Finnegan broadcast his morning show from inside Marians Fashion Shop on Bridge Street this morning (Thursday 15th) from 9am to 11am. The broadcast was one of a number of special events with special offers and monthly draws marking the 60th birthday of Marians in Boyle. Realboyle and Marians Facebook page will have full details of their new Monthly Draw online shortly.
As they say ... If people in the Shannonside Region are talking about it, Joe Finnegan is talking about it and more often than not people are talking about The Joe Finnegan Show!
View the realboyle set of photos [here...]

Deputy Feighan and John Mulligan welcome €400,000

Frank wrote: Roscommon/South Leitrim TD, Frank Feighan, has warmly welcomed the approval of €400,000 in Government funding to develop the Boyle-Lough Key Greenway project. "I am delighted to confirm €400,000 in funding to develop this major tourism project, full details of which will be announced later today by Public Transport Minister, Alan Kelly. It’s clear that Roscommon County Council and all the stakeholders in this project are being justly rewarded for their efforts in expediting the plans for this cycleway/walkway route. The route will capitalise on the tourism potential of Boyle’s attractions while linking the town with the county’s flagship tourist facility at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park."
John Mulligan wrote: The €400,000 will be part of a €10 million allocated nationally fro a cycle link infrastructure

Christy Moore will perform in Boyle with The Grehan sisters

Gerry O'Daly wrote: Christy Moore and the Grehan Sisters to Play a Tribute Concert for the Late Traditional Singer John Reilly, in Boyle, Co.Roscommon on the 26th of June 2014.
Christy Moore and the Grehan Sisters of Boyle are playing a Tribute Concert to the late great singer John Reilly. This Concert is scheduled to take place in St. Joseph’s Hall in Boyle on Thursday the 26th of June 2014 (doors opening at 7 pm). Tickets are currently on sale at the following locations McDonagh’s Mace Shop, Boyle 071 966 2002, Mulvey’s Gift Shop, Carrick-On-Shannon 071 962 0134, Casey’s Centra Shop, Roscommon, 090 662 5468.

D&S Fitness Studio, Green Street, Boyle

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Meet Siofra O'Connor, your instructor at D&S Fitness Studio, Green Street, Boyle.
Timetable for week ahead in Boyle Studio:
Monday: 6.15: 20/20 (Fitball/Kettlebell s) 7.15: Cardio sculpt & Tone.
Wednesday: 6.15: Bodytone, Legs, Bums & Tums, 7.15: Bootcamp.
Thursday: 5.15: KETTLEBELLS.
Friday: 6.15: Bodytone Abs Blast . Please txt Siofra on 086 192 9282 to Book your spot.
1st Class Try YOURS for Free..

Can this be 'Holy Ireland'?

Today's Irish Independent [read more...]
   Special needs boy stripped naked and whipped in Garda custody
   A young mother recovering from cervical cancer was held in custody for 12 hours.
   A woman went into a diabetic coma after she was refused medical attention
It is a shock to read that a tiny minority of Gardai appear as bullies
   and Ming Flanagan claims Gardaí 'linked to heroin dealing' [here...]

New Bishop of Elphin


Pic online from the Irish Catholic

Fr. Kevin Doran (Dublin, 61 years old) will shortly take up duty as Bishop of Elphin.
>> October 2013: Prominent Irish priest Fr Kevin Doran has said the reason for his resignation from the Mater Hospital’s board of governors and board of directors is the terms of the abortion act and not the Mater Hospital.
[More...]

Sloans Topline Summer Sale


View the full Sale Catalogue [here...]
It's a 5.2MB download file - please give it time - it's well worth viewing!
 

Tony Conboy's Oblique View


Thanks to Tony for sharing a photo of Boyle Streets League team from the early 60's.
Front: Gerry McGlynn, Barry Feely, Austin Beisty
Back: Jim Maughan, Johnny Beirne, Cormac McConnell paddy Conlon
 

Boyle Celtic - u12 Champions

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Eamon Glennon wrote: I'm attaching a few photos of the victorious Boyle Celtic team that won the Sligo Leitrim u12 league last night beating Ballymote 1-0 in the final at the cleveragh astro pitch in Sligo. This was a fantastic achievement and great bunch of lads.

Maire Paul's Wreath at Famine Commemoration

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Boyle Mayor, Maire Paul placed a wreath at the Famine Commemoration in Strokestown.

Frank Feighan TD - 6 million for Roscommon Hospital

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Deputy Frank Feighan TD, Dr. James Reilly, Minister for Health, Dr. McMullen, Consultant Surgeon at Roscommon Hospital,

Roscommon/South Leitrim TD, Frank Feighan, has welcomed the start of construction of the €6m Endoscopy Unit at Roscommon County Hospital, saying it was a red letter day for the hospital. "I’m delighted the sod was turned today on the project by Health Minister James Reilly and I look forward to the completion of this 14,000 square foot unit which is set to become a diagnostic centre for the Western region."
"This Endoscopy Unit will facilitate a range of scope procedures for patients, including colonoscopies. It is also hoped the service will be widened to offer Bronchoscopy, Cystoscopy and a range of other similar scope services."
"I gave a commitment to secure significant investment for Roscommon Hospital and the Endoscopy Suite is part of a €20m investment earmarked for the hospital. The other flagship projects are a Rehab Unit and a Hospice Care Centre."

D&S Get Fit, Boyle Studio

New Lunchtime Bodytone legs bums and tums class starting Thursdays at 1.10-1.50 in Green St Fitness studio. Txt/Call 086 192 9282 for details or to Book Your Spot.

Boyle Musical Society - 'Grease' is the word!

At a very well attended AGM recently, Boyle Musical Society director and choreographer, Vivienne Moran revealed that the Society's forthcoming show, due to be staged this autumn, will be the hugely popular musical, 'Grease'.
Everybody may be familiar with the 1978 film, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Set in an American high school during the late 1950s, the film and indeed the stage musical are full drama, comedy and classic songs like 'Summer Nights', 'You're The One That I Want', 'Greased Lightning' and 'Hopelessly Devoted to You'.

Boyle Celtic - news update

A Lee McKillen hat-trick inspired Boyle Celtic to a convincing win against local rivals Aughanagh Celtic on Saturday last. This 4-1 won victory leaves Celtic 5 points behind City Utd with 7 league games remaining. Next up for Celtic is an away fixture on Wednesday night against Strand Celtic followed by a home fixture against Yeats Utd at the weekend

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD
I would liked ths photo more if Enda Kenny TD hadn't been facing the sun
in Lough Key Forest Park this afternoon

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD spent time in Lough Key Forest Park yesterday. A veritable feeding frenzy by 'snappers' followed his every move and gesture. I was one of the 'feeders'.
View the realboyle set of 38 photos [here...]

The Bog Gardens, Lough Key Forest Park.

Bog gardens, Lough Key Forest Park
Photo courtesy of Christine Kelly

I haven't visited the gardens for some time. It is sad to hear that the gardens are in total neglect. Coillte should really be rebuked for their lack of interest in keeping all aspects and locations in of the park up to potential.
The Gatehouse, Kingston Hall, a roofless old Church, Stables etc - all in a state of decay. We will live to regret this. Then there is privately owned Castle Island and the trees growing through the walls will eventually flatten the building. Coillte will have a lot to answer for! Meanwhile, Coillte makes several million euros PROFIT each year from selling trees from the property

Mark Beirne's 80th Birthday

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Mark Beirne celebreted his 80th birthday, in great health with family and friends at 30 Termon Road on Saturday 10th May. View more photos [here...]

Boyle Golf Club - news update

Sunday's PGA Tankard was won by Jim Suffin 39pts, 2nd James Shivnan 38pts, Gross Gary Carty, 3rd Michael Reid 38pts. Thursday Mens Competition was won by Ross Andrew 28pts, followed by John McGuinn 27pts, Michael McHale 26pts. Friday's Scramble was won by Padraig O'Connell, John McGuinn & Michael Rush, 2nd Adrian King, Brendan Gaffney, Aisling Gaughran & Michael Gilmartin, 3rd Lorcan Egan & Pat Conroy.
Competitions for this week: Mens Competition on Thursday and the Friday evening Scramble. Read the full update [here...]

Boyle GAA Club - news update

Club Lotto €20 winners in The Railway Bar;- Karl Keenan, James and Ailish Goldrick, Leonard Sutton, Teresa and Carol McQuaid, Brian Kelly and Margaret O'Dea. The house prize was won by Martin Murphy. There was no jackpot winner. The jackpot will stand at €6,200 for Saturday night's draw in Clarke's, with Team B in charge. The McGovern Directional Drilling Senior team captain for 2014 will be Sean Purcell with Roch Hanmore as Vice-Captain. Boyle Juniors will play Ballinameen in the Abbey Park on Saturday evening at 7.30pm. The U14s will travel to play Kilmore/Shannon Gaels on this Thursday evening in the Division 2 League. Congratulations to the Women's team on a fantastic win over Western Gaels in their first championship game of the year in Frenchpark on Saturday Evening. Final score was Boyle 5-10 Western Gaels 3-11.

Mattimoe's Bar - Traditional Irish Music

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Pictured above are Sarah Egan and Shane Meehan

Sunday featured "The Fireside Sessions" at Mattimoe's Bar, 6pm to 9pm. The series will continue through the Summer, with Sarah Egan and Shane Meehan. A great evening of traditional Irish music guaranteed each week. At this first session, Sarah and Shane were joined by Kelvin Morris on fiddle (his first public session ever!), Gerry Morris on accordeon, Joe Kennedy (bodhrán), Gregory Daly (fiddle) Patrick ? (a welcome visitor to Ireland)
View more photos [here...]

D&S Fitness Studio, Green Street, Boyle

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Timetable for week ahead in Boyle Studio:
Monday: 6.15: 20/20 (Fitball/Kettlebell s) 7.15: Cardio sculpt & Tone.
Wednesday: 6.15: Bodytone, Legs, Bums & Tums, 7.15: Bootcamp.
Thursday: 5.15: KETTLEBELLS.
Friday: 6.15: Bodytone Abs Blast . Please txt Siofra on 086 192 9282 to Book your spot.
1st Class Try YOURS for Free..

Lush Greens in Boyle this morning

Sony RS 100

There has been a lot of rain here lately, resulting in fast growing and beautiful colours like the leaves on a tree of the image above, outside my back door in Boyle.

 


"Whistleblower"

Whistleblower

I cannot resist giving a title to this image ... "Whistleblower". Retired Garda Sergeant Gerry O'Daly pictured above will see the joke. Photo from a TG4 John Spillane filming session in Wynnes Bar.

An Taoiseach in Lough Key Forest Park - Monday

Frank Frighan Td wrote: AN TAOISEACH Enda Kenny will visit Forest Park on Monday 12th May at 3.30.PM atthe invitation of Frank Feighan TD to view facilities there. Everyone welcome to come and meet him.

Role Skillnet, Intermediate Excel Training Course

A one day course in Intermediate Excel will take place at Boyle Enterprise Centre on Wednesday May 14th from 9.30/4.30. This course is designed to give users of excel greater knowledge of advanced commands and functions and how to apply them in their working environments. Course topics will include, Using Excel as a Database, Pivot Tables, Charting, Advanced Formatting techniques, Advanced Functions and Securing your data.
Cost is €40 per person. For more information or to book a place please email info@roleskillnet.com or call 086 203 9182.

Boyle Library

Tuesday 13th May: Boyle Active Age Drama Group: "The Doctor's Waiting Room" – Play in Main Library, 2.30pm to 3.30pm
Wednesday 14th May: Boyle Library Book Club: Book for discussion – "The Great Gatsby" – F. Scott Fitzgerald 11am to 12.30pm.

Marians Fashions 60th Celebrations

Thursday May 15th at 9-11am: The Joe Finnegan show will be in Boyle courtesy of Marians in conjunction with their 60 years in business and the launch of their Mega Bridal Sale. Pop in for some giveaways and special discounts.

Boyle Abbey this morning

Boyle Cistercian Abbey


Boyle Websites

"We need fast broadband to attract businesses" was the call for so long.
The need to have fast broadband and a dedicated website, as well as keeping it fresh and updated has long ceased to be a priority with Boyle Chamber of Commerce, Boyle TM and Boyle Tidy Towns. Members of the three organisations hold regular meetings at which they genuinely seek ways to better our town. For reasons unknown to me they appear to ignore their websites.
Boyle Chamber of Commerce: updated April 2010, some information incorrect.
Boyle TM: (Town and More) it's a mess and has a December 2012 update
Boyle Tidy Towns Blog: last updated May 2011

John Spillane and TG4

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Over the past few years, Boyle has been the location for several film and TV programmes. Moone Boy, Neville Knott's Showhouse, Duncan Stewart and Betty Meyler's UFO progammes come to mind. Singer songwriter John Spillane and TG4 are here this week filming an episode of John's hugely popular series of 'Spillane an Fánaí' for TG4. Boyle Abbey and the Battle of the Curlieus site were filmed Thursday. Lough Key Forest Park and Saturday's Farmers Market are next in line. Interiors featuring chat and songs are being filmed each night in Wynnes Bar on Main Street.

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You are invited to come along and be entertained as part of the audience at the filming in Wynnes on Friday and Saturday nights ... see you there!
 

Boyle TM

A quick lunchtime meeting will take place on Monday 12th May at 1pm in Boyle Enterprise Centre to progress and develop plans to further enhance and assist business during this Summer season for Boyle & surrounding areas. Your attendance and input will be much appreciated - please pass on this info to others that you feel may be interested.
Plans are being put in place to run a twice daily shuttle bus from Lough Key Forest & Activity Park to Boyle for the Months of June,July & August with a launch of the Service June Bank Holiday weekend, attracting some of the 100,000+ visitors expected to the Lough Key Forest & Activity Park?

Curlieu Wheelers

Take up the challenge of our 60km and 120km Lough Key Classic on Saturday May 17th taking in the beautiful scenery surrounding Boyle. You can register for this event online at www.eventbrite.ie by searching for 'The Lough Key Classic' or on Friday evening the 16th and Saturday morning the 17th in Abbey Community College, Marian road, Boyle. There will be a free gift for the first 150 people who register online.
Registration Friday 16th at 7.00pm till 8.30pm and Saturday 17th 7.00am till 8.40am

120km Start Time 9am - €20 for all Cycling Ireland license holders and €25 for non license holders. (Food included)* 60km Start Time 10.30am - €20 for all Cycling Ireland license holders and €25 for non license holders. (Food included)*
Moone Boy Family Cycle Start time 11.00am - Free - Light refreshments provided.#
*Food on the day will be catered by Paddy Paella catering
Questions about The Lough Key Classic, Contact Carmel Regan 086 159 8232

The Legend of Úna Bhán


Graphic © Sean O'Dowd

"MacDermot was chieftain of Moylurg, a Celtic Kingdom in North Roscommon. He had a beautiful daughter, Úna Bhán - so named because of her long blonde hair. His neighbour was Tomás Láidir Costello, a good and sincere man, handsome and strong." [more...]
While looking back through old files I came across a page I wrote several years ago. It seems relevant to republish the page now at the start of our tourist season. The "Legend of Úna Bhán" is a local one, based around our own Lough Key.

Local Elections

The 2014 Irish local elections will be held in all local government areas of Ireland on Friday, 23rd May 2014, on the same day as the European Parliament election. Some will vote along party lines, just as they have always done. Others will vote because they known or respect a particular candidate. I will vote for people who have achieved results, or taken a particular stance in the past, whether inside or outside politics. I will not vote on the basis of 'promises'. How will you decide who to vote for?

Brogans Pharmacy

Clarins annual promotion
 


Ardcarne Plantsplus Garden Centre

That rain recently will do the garden the world of good and bring out all the loveliest of May flowers! One of the highlights of the month is the flowering crab apple - they are absolutely spectacular just now - like clouds of snowy white, pink or even crimson purple flowers. Check out our special offer on crab apples exclusive to newsletter subscribers [here...]

Tony Conboy's Oblique View

Well, as the Norwegian commentator espoused all those years ago, when Norway beat England, our 'boys took a hell of a beating' in the U21 All-Ireland Final at Tullamore. [more...]
"Now Folks"
Christy Regan, an iconic figure of Boyle, passed away last weekend. Christy will have left an invaluable archive of images on film. He was a most genial affable gentleman and as I listened to his son Enda give a brief outline of his life and times it showed the many strings, literally, Christy had in his bow of life.
'I wanna tell you something, try it sometime'.
I caught up with the section of The Late Late Show dealing with a new book on the culture of entitlement of a political era of a short while ago. The book is titled 'Tom Gilmartin; The Man Who Brought Down a Taoiseach and Exposed the Greed and Corruption at the Heart of Irish Politics'.
Water Charges:
I may have referred to this previously but I really feel an injustice in the probability of having to pay for water while we cannot drink it from the tap.
Read this week's full 'Oblique View' [here...]

The Lotto

Really! ... I should give up thoughts of winning the lotto. Again this week, I added to my dismal choice of numbers. Not even one of them featured in last night's draw. The winning numbers for Wednesday 7th May were 9/11/20/35/38/38 (42) for a great 5,399,682, which was not won.

John Spillane is in town

John Spillane

John Spillane, Cork singer songwriter arrived in Boyle on Wednesday night with a film crew ready to spend time here filming an episode of his hugely popular series of 'Spillane an Fánaí' for TG4. Spillane an Fánaí is a heartwarming and revealing six part entertainment series presented by John. Combining off-the-cuff encounters with local people, interviews and music sequences, John will be here, working in Wynnes Pub and venturing out to meet a host of locals in search of musical inspiration for his songwriting in the uniqueness and character of small town life.
Last night developed into a highly entertaining impromptu session in Wynnes, having John perform, ably assisted with songs from our own Donal O'Connor and Bernie Flaherty.

Open Table Restaurant

open Table Restaurant

Know previously as Joe Mahon's shoe shop on the Crescent. the premises is being revamped and by the end of next week will reopen as Martin Guihen's "Open Table Restaurant". Smart Casual Dining will be the description and tag line for food available, prepared under the guidance of expert chef Damian Kulig. Open Table restaurant will be open seven days every week from 12 noon.

The Bazaar on Bridge Street

The Bazaar

Opening soon, "The Bazaar" on Bridge Street. Diane and Glen Charles whom you know from Battlebridge Paintball will operate their additional business sweets, stationery, internet access and coffee shop. We wish Diane and Glen many happy, profitable days and years trading in Boyle
Maire Paul wrote: Good luck to the new enterprise and thank you for putting faith and your own money in our community. Boyle people will support as working and living together and shopping locally is the only way forward in retaining local employment and keeping the centre of this unique and historical town alive and in a shop that had a great reputation for friendliness and customer apprciation. Diane spent most of her summers in Boyle in the home of her auntie Joan Egan so thus continuing a long association of family run business the Bazaar has always represented- long time ago but I used to get our Bunty and Beano and Dandy there and my mother her Ireland's Own!

Boyle Town Council - Final Meeting

Boyle Town Council
Front: Eileen Callaghan (Town Clerk) Tommy Ryan (Town Manager)
Mayor Marie Paul (Egan), Cllr Jane Suffin. Back: Councillors Keith Suffin,
Chris Brady, Jan Flanagan, Frank Geelan, Peter Flannery and Mary Clifford.
Missing from photo: Cllr Raymie Maughan.
 

The final meeting of Boyle Town Council was held in King House on Tuesday 6th May 2014. Following the meeting, Boyle Town Councillors present and past, Town Manager Tommy Ryan, Town Clerk Eileen Callaghan and several Boyle residents celebrated with finger food and wine/tea/coffee to the piano and electric keyboard playing of Miceal Harrington.
Elements of the celebration included short addresses from Mayor Marie Egan and Tommy Ryan. Specially designed scrolls were presented to the O'Dowd and Young families in recognition of the international standing and constant references to Boyle by screen/stage actor Chris O'Dowd and film/TV cartoon animator Paul Young.
Each of the current Councillors were presented with specially designed medallions by Town Manager Tommy Ryan.
The night was a very pleasant, enjoyable one though tinged with sadness at the passing of our Boyle Town Council. Much will be written in the coming years about Boyle Town Council, but for the moment it remains simply to thank the current and previous Council members for their lobbying on behalf of the area and we offer them too our very best wishes into the future.

Election promises

While Minister Phil Hogan couldn't categorically rule out Roscommon people having to pay for water that they can't drink, he said at least now there was progress. Mr Hogan said over half of the population of those on boil water notices could be reassured that they will have brand new water treatment systems by the end of next year.

History of King House

In 1603 Sir John King, originally of Feathercock Hall. Northallerton, Yorks., was given a lease of Boyle Abbey & its lands, and by 1617 obtained an outright grant to the property - totalling some 4127 acres, which included the site of the present town of Boyle. His eldest son, Robert, built a house on the site of the present King House some time between 1643 and 1657. The house was destroyed by fire in 1720
Building of the present house commenced shortly afterwards, the architect being Sir Edward Lovatt-Pearce or his assistant William Halfpenny. In 1755 the house, with its staff of 35, passed to Edward, later to become 1st Earl of Kingston. The house, though impressively large, was unsuitable for a wealthy member of the aristocracy, being adjacent to inns and merchants. King House is now a premier Boyle attraction with Boyle Abbey and Lough Key Forest Park [more ...]

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W.J.Sloan, Main Street

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Painters were literally up and at it early in Boyle this morning
 

Boyle Town Council

Tuesday 6th May: The "die" has been cast. After last Tuesday's meeting Boyle Town Council does not exist. In 1613 King James 3rd granted a charter to Boyle, Tulsk and Roscommon, from which Boyle Town Commission (later called Boyle Town Council) evolved 127 years ago as a Local Authority. Our Boyle Town Council held monthly meetings, and occasionally more frequently. At these meetings the Roscommon County Manager, or his agent had to be present, and record items of concern to Boyle residents, as presented by our nine elected Boyle Town Councillors.
Viewers will please note that Boyle Town Council owned 15 houses and one unoccupied building site as well as 230,000 euros in a bank account. The properties and money will be handed over to Roscommon County Council, possibly the Housing Section.
Mayor Marie Paul and the elected members of Boyle Town Council will welcome invited guests and Boyle residents to the final meeting of Boyle Town Council on Tuesday 6th May in King House. The meeting will start at 8pm

Elections 2014

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Pictured here are FF candidates Eugene Murphy and Rachel Doherty


Pub Quiz

Friday 9th of May: Table Quiz in Dodd's Bar, The Crescent. Starting at 9pm - Spot Prizes - Raffle Prizes. Please help us to help others so their life can begin again.
All proceeds go to Console Ireland - the National Suicide Crisis Intervention and Bereavement Counselling Charity

Boyle Farmers Market 9th Anniversary

Boyle Farmers Market

Saturday 10th May on the grounds of King House, 10am-2pm
The day promises to be a special one, so come along and enjoy the festivities. Enjoy Live Harp Music, The Tullyboy Farm Buggy Train and their Alpaca, Free Food Samples, Free Raffles, A Basket Weaving Demonstration, and Jenny's Plant A Herb Garden when you bring along your window boxes or pots filled with compost.
TG4 will film a segment for John Spillane's new series of 'Spillane an Fánaí'.

Golf Classic next Saturday

The Horse and Summer Show Classic next Saturday May 10th. Teams of four €25 per person including hot meal. Format will be a Rumble. All support appreciated. To book a team please contact Michael Rush on 086 780 8542

Annual disposable income

Donegal has the lowest figure of disposable income per person nationally, according to figures from the Central Statistics Office. Those living in Leitrim are calculated to have €17,604 which is higher than many neighbouring counties around the region is still well below the national average of €19,055. Donegal had €15,897, Longford €17,158, Cavan €16,741 and Roscommon had €16,392 in 2011. Sligo was the only county in the region to have a higher disposable income compared to Leitrim at €18,211.

Boyle GAA update

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Abbey Park, Boyle

The Minors and U16 continue with. training but have no games until after exams. The U14s next game is v Kilmore/Shannon in Kilmore on the 15th May at 7pm.
The Cooney Motors/ Cooney's Centra Juniors had a hard earned three point win over St Michael's in Cootehall on Friday evening last. Thanks to all who supported the church gate collection at the weekend for the underage Boyle Teams.
Congratulations to the Roscommon Ladies footballers who won the Division 4 League Final in Tullamore on Saturday. The Club extends its sympathy the Regan Family, Green Street on the death of Christy, and to the Finneran Family, Ballinagare on the death of Mrs Mae Finneran. [MORE...]

Boyle Golf Club Update

Boyle Golf Club

Results for last weekend's fundraiser to follow next week. Thursday night's Mens competition was won by Michael Gilmartin 30pts, 2nd Gerry Carty 27pts, 3rd Pat Conroy 27pts.
Thanks to all who supported the "Quiz & Curry Nite" it was a great success. Club Captain Special thanks to Susan & Brendan for both organising the night and sponsoring the prizes. Thanks also to Jonathan for correcting, to Gary for looking after the bar and to Mary, as always, for the lovely food. Padraig specially welcomed Jimmy & Pauline Doyle to the event. The winning team was Tish Perry, Geraldine McDermottroe, Bernie Lyons and Eamon Perry, runners up were Martina Keville, Tony Scanlon, Pacelli McDermott & Maurice Mullen. Eamon Perry thanked Susan & Brendan, and all who helped out, for a great night. The raffle was won by Jimmy & Pauline Doyle, Mary Keenan, Kathleen Candon & Aileen Madden.
The Club extend sympathy to the family of Margaret O'Sullivan who passed away last week. We also extend sympathy to Mary Regan and family on the passing of Christy Regan last weekend. Members will remember Christy taking photographs at various club events including dinner dances and presentations. May they rest in Peace. [MORE...]

Set Dancing Classes

Set dancing classes start tomorrow Tuesday, 6th May 2014, in Ballinafad Community Centre, 9pm - 11pm, for 7 weeks. No experience needed, everyone welcome, start now and be ready to join in at the local festivals this Summer! More details at: www.ceili.ie/ballinafad/

Together in harmony

Wild Garlic and Bluebells
Wild Garlic and Bluebells in Lough Key Forest Park



Lough Key Forest Park

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Click on the image to see a larger version

Castle Island in the background and a composition of stone pieces from Rockingham House ... and maybe Kingston Hall.

Padre Pio Pilgrimage

Michael F.O'Gara wrote: The Padre Pio Pilgrimage to Holycross, Co. Tipperary will take place on Sunday May 25th. A bus will leave the Crescent, Boyle at 8am sharp. All interested in travelling should please call Moa on 071 966 2110

Well done Keith Suffin!

We were all aware the vandals were operating near the Carrick Road recently. Thanks to our public spirited former Mayor, Keith Suffin matters have been rectified. In his trusty tractor, Keith brought shovel and brush, rolled up his sleeves and performed his good deed for the day and for the community ... Well done Keith!
We will miss all of our elected Boyle Town Council following the Council's Final Meeting Tuesday 6th May. Current and previous Cllr's have displayed the highest standards of public spiritedness and will continue to do so into the future. A heartfelt congratulations to all of you and best wishes into the future.

GAA U21 All-Ireland Final


Roscommon GAA stars from Boyle, brothers Enda and Donal Smith

Dublin 1-21 : Roscommon 3-6. A devastating first half display laid the foundations for Dublin's second All-Ireland U21 football triumph in three years at a damp and dreary O'Connor Park, Tullamore.
A huge Roscommon crowd was in early to see their ladies footballers beat Fánaí to capture the National League Division 4 title. But that was as good as it got for them as Dublin set about crushing the high hopes of a first All-Ireland U21 title since 1978 in a one-sided opening 30 minutes. Read more [here...]

Developers - King House

king House

King House continues to be a major Boyle attraction. Last night I was delighted to attend the presentation "Developers" by Dr. Alice Lyons and Orla McHardy. "Developers" is a project about trying to spot rapid change in the hope that clear seeing might be its own reward. The project included poetry, prose and film marking a particular point in time as it affected Cootehall a few years ago.
Pictured are Aril Other, Orla McHardy, Dr Alice Lyons and Linda Sheerin. Aril and Linda represented Roscommon Arts Centre's 2014 Visual Art Programme.

O'Dowd's Fireplaces & Stoves

O'Dowd's Carrick


Thank You from Boyle TM

On behalf of Boyle Town and More and the organizing crew for the Good Friday Fun Quiz Night, we thank sincerely all who supported the event, donated prizes and sponsorship to ensure its resounding success. Our target is to raise €30,000 over the next three years to purchase new lights for Boyle, €10,000 of which we hope to raise this year. The Quiz Night raised €3500 which has given the project a great start.
We hope to hold at least one other major enjoyable fundraiser later in the year and again will be appealing to all Businesses, Community Groups, Organisations, Societies and individuals to support our town in its efforts to light up Boyle.
Sincere thanks to everyone for your assistance and support. Already looking forward to our next event! And hoping you thoroughly enjoyed the last.

D&S Fitness Studios

Untitled


Christy Regan R.I.P

Christy Regan R.I.P.
Photograph of the late Christy Regan from his son Enda's Facebook page

The death has occurred of a Boyle legend and friend to everyone he encountered. Photographer Christy Regan died peacefully, surrounded by his grieving family, in Sligo General Hospital following a lengthy illness. Christy will be sadly missed by his wife Mary, sons Enda and Joe, Daughter Evelyn, relations, his many friends and the Boyle region community. May Christy rest in peace.

Boyle Town Council - the end of an era

Boyle Town Council Crest
Boyle Town Council Crest. Several years ago I had the pleasure of creating the final artwork for the crest from suggestions by Cllr Frank Geelan

Mayor Marie Paul and the elected members of Boyle Town Council will welcome invited guests and Boyle residents to the final meeting of Boyle Town Council next Tuesday 6th May in King House. The meeting will start at 8pm
I believe we will come to regret not having an Elected Town Council. The Council was a perfect, and inexpensive link with Boyle Residents and Roscommon County Council.
At a later date, Boyle Town Council Memorabelia should be on display, probably in King House. Items of interest would include the Council's two Chains of Office, photos of previous Councillors and Minute Books as well as Professor Potter's Council History.
I am not aware yet what will happen to houses owned by Boyle Town Council as well as the Council's substantial Bank Account.

Boyle Musical Society - committee 2014 - and 'Grease'

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Committee 2014 (missing Siobhan Gallagher)
Front row: Benny Morgan, Tish Golden, Marie Kennedy, Liz Gannon, Deirdre Purcell, Sadhg Duggan. Back row: Brendan McGee, Darragh Beirne, Eugene Beirne, Joe O'Donnell, Gavin Ward, Aidan Callaghan. Committee member Siobhan Gallagher is missing from the photo...

Boyle Musical Society are delighted to announce that this year's Musical will be a perennial favourite and will be staged in November. 'Grease' - Rehearsals will begin at the end of August and everybody is welcome to join and be a cast member. For more information watch this space.
I had the pleasure of attending the Boyle Musical Society's AGM in Dodd's bar. The choice of 'Grease' came as a welcome surprise. Though BMS has not preformed 'Grease' before, our local Boyle Community College produced the show in the past.
Since then Grease has had a rewrite with the same storyline and songs and will be performed as an adults mostly show by members of our hugely talented Boyle Musical Society. More information will follow here on realboyle.com

Get Certified

Get Certified in Information Technology in Boyle - Major Award Level 4 and 5
SOLAS Full-time FETAC Major Award courses at Level 4 & level 5 are being run continuously at Roscommon Learning Links Boyle. Places now available, course duration approx 32 weeks. These courses are open to anyone who is unemployed and looking to re-train or progress to further education. To register your interest in these Courses call DSP Employment Services on 090 663 2903 or drop in any morning to Roscommon learning Links in Elphin Street, Boyle to talk to Martina or Siobhan or call 071 966 4510.

"Blue & Green should never be seen?"

"Blue & Green should never be seen" ??
... and "Singing The Blues" at Lough Key Forest Park [here...]


Chris O'Dowd has been nominated for a Tony Award

Chris O'Dowd
"High Five Chris ..."

Chris O'Dowd has been nominated for a prestigious Tony Award for his role in the Broadway play 'Of Mice And Men'. The Boyle actor received a Best Leading Actor in a Play nomination for his portrayal of Lennie in the latest stage adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel.

Festivals and Events funding from Fáilte Ireland.

The Boyle Arts Festival, The O'Carolan Harp Festival, and the John McGahern International Festival have been allocated 2,000 euro each.

Hire and Higher

"Hire and Higher"
St. Patrick Street, Boyle, Tuesday 29th April
 



 

Pink Blossom Tree
Carrick Road, Boyle, Sunday 27th April [large version...]
  

Roscommon Herald - rumours!

"Rumours of our demise are greatly exaggerated" Christina McHugh, Editor of the Roscommon Herald told me. Christina went on to clarify the future for our highly esteemed weekly newspaper at this time. Lets ignore and refute all rumours!
Regarding the already announced restructuring planned for August, eleven jobs will remain in the current Boyle and Roscommon offices. All Sales and Editorial functions will remain in Boyle. Two extra jobs may be created in Boyle, one in Business Redevelopment and one in Sales.
Eight Finance and some Admin and Production jobs will be managed from Landmark headquarters in Cork. Of the eight, not all are full time jobs.

Sloan's Topline

Sloans Spring Specials



"The clock is running. Make the most of today. Time waits for no man. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift ... and That's why it is called the present."
 


Derreen Wood Bluebells

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Derreen Wood is famous for its Bluebells. Every year from the end of April and through May, we love this carpet of blue on the Knockvicar road not far from Ardcarne PlantsPlus Garden Centre.

Keeping in touch ...

Realboyle.com is delighted to have 23,278 images online for you as I write. Every day I add images from places I have been and events I have attended. I also include a small number of images submitted by viewers. Most realboyle images were taken as photographs within a 15 mile radius of Boyle.
Yes, there is a difference between an image, a picture and a photograph, but let's not get too pedantic! View the entire realboyle collection of images/pictures on Flickr [here...]


38 Dishonest Tricks of Argument

It will be interesting to observe and document just how many of the 38 Dishonest Tricks of Argument will be presented to us before the May 25th elections. Among them will be a top three:
(1) The use of emotionally toned words
(2) Making a statement in which "all" is implied but "some" is true
(3) Argument in a circle
For full listing of the 38 Dishonest Tricks of Argument, Google the book "Straight And Crooked Thinking" by Robert T. Thouless


Frank Feighan TD - Ceann Comhairle?

Shannonside FM report: Roscommon Deputy Frank Feighan says he would be very happy to accept the position of Ceann Comhairle in the Dail, if it was offered to him. The Fine Gael TD was reacting to renewed speculation this week that he could be offered the Chair as part of a reshuffle planned by the Taoiseach. [more...

 

Ever said, "I will", "I must", "I should, if and but...!" ?

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Photo shows John Reynolds finishing the event in 2013

We have all used these words at some point when it comes to exercise and getting out on these fine evenings to walk or run. Cairde Le Cheile's 2nd Annual 10km run/5km walk will take place in Kingsland on Sunday 13th July. Its only 10 weeks away. To get us all fit and ready for it Cairde Le Cheile in conjunction with expert tutors Noel Feehily and Jennifer Higgins from Roscommon Sports Partnership have organised weekly training sessions every Monday and Wednesday evening at 8pm starting at The Saddlers Inn, Kingsland. All abilities and fitness levels will be catered for. No more excuses, come and join us! All welcome! Follow us on Facebook or call 086 193 5467 if you have any questions...
View photos from last year's event [here...]

BAF Open Art Exhibition 2014

This is a reminder to all artists, local, new, those from further afield and those 'under 25' – that it is time to be thinking of your entry to the BAF14 Boyle Open Art Exhibition. The exhibition will run this year from Friday 25th July until Saturday 2nd August.
Entries will be accepted in any medium, to a maximum of 3 per person. We were delighted that last year's exhibition was well supported again, as always and anticipate another excellent show, exhibits for which will be selected by an anonymous panel.
Handing-in of entries will be on Friday 4th July 4pm to 6pm and/ or Saturday 5th July from 3pm to 5pm in Church of Ireland, Parochial School, Military Road, Boyle (opposite Family Life Centre).
If you have any queries about the exhibition you can ring me, Patricia Golden, at 071 966 3033 between 9am and 5pm.


Dawn Chorus in Lough Key Forest Park

To celebrate Bealtaine 2014, Roscommon County Council, in conjunction with the Roscommon Solstice Choir are organising a "Dawn Chorus". This event will take place on Sunday 25th May at 8.00am in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle. Refreshments will be provided afterwards and everyone is welcome to attend.
A rehearsal has been scheduled for Sunday 18th May 2014 from 4.00pm in Kilbride Community Centre, Roscommon.
If you, or a group you work with, would be interested in attending this event, can you please register your interest with Anita Kenny, Social Inclusion Unit, Roscommon County Council by telephone (090) 663 7359 or by email: akenny@roscommoncoco.ie.


Belinda Maria Parker Designer Hats

Belinda Maria Parker Designer Hats

Belinda wrote: "I have been in the fashion industry for over 10 years. I started making hand made hats 2 years ago and to perfect my profession to a higher level I studied under one of Ireland's leading milliner's Lina Stein, including the use of different fabrics, shaping blocking and how to complement and flatter your entire look for your special occasion. All of my hats are handmade using the best fabrics and silks. Some of my designs are displayed in Klass boutique Main Street Carrick-On-Shannon. My hats are for sale or hire and for a private consultation your can contact me on 086 175 8362 or message me on Facebook (Belinda Maria Hat Designer)


Roscommon Tourism says - Revive, Refresh, Rewind

Roscommon...
Click on the image to view a larger version
Yes, that's Joe and Evelyn O'Donnell ...

As you may already have seen, the formal launch of Roscommon's Promotional Tourism Videos happened last week at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. The videos have now been uploaded onto the 'VisitRoscommon.com' website and also 'Roscommon.ie' YouTube page for greater coverage. So please visit one or other of the sites, download any or all to your own site and spread the word to your customers, clients, friends and family.
View the videos [here...]

"Bloomin' lovely" in Boyle

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There are several trees blossoming pink around Boyle at the moment


Ring announces €537,000 local festivals & events

Thank you to Boyle Cllr Keith Suffin for forwarding the following:
Food, music and fun on the cards for 2014 in hundreds of communities. Minister of State for Tourism & Sport Michael Ring has today announced that funding of just over €537,000 has been approved by Fáilte Ireland for 175 regional festivals and events taking place this year.
Minister Ring said, "2013 was a great success for Irish tourism and regional festivals and events across the country played a big part in that success. We want to build on the legacy of the Gathering and ensure 2014 is even more successful. The funding announced today will allow local communities to broaden their appeal to overseas visitors who will be able to experience everything from culture and sport, to festivals and fun."
Fáilte Ireland research indicates that in 2011 there were 10,836 people in paid employment in festivals. Additionally, 48,692 people around Ireland were engaged with festivals in Ireland on a voluntary basis.Shaun Quinn, CEO of Fáilte Ireland stressed the importance of festivals for Ireland and the tourism sector: "Festivals and events are the lifeblood of Irish tourism – complementing the beauty of our landscapes and the friendliness of our people with a rich variety of spectacle and experiences. These events will provide the backbone to the tourism calendar in communities throughout the country and add to our ability to grow overseas visitors and revenue."

King House Facebook Page

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Jason wrote: "King House now has a Facebook page. We've only started putting it together but we will be updating the page daily with photos as well as information on upcoming events taking place in the house - plays/concerts etc."
View the King House Facebook page [here...]
View some of the many reaboyle photos taken in King House [here...]


Two Questions for you...

1. Did I miss out on any event that I should have carried a report/photos on either here or on Facebook?
2. If I missed out on something, did you let me know about it?
I do not claim to be all-seeing, all-inclusive/exclusive or interested in every event, therefore some news/events will not enter within my radar.


Tree Trimming

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Just like all living things on planet Earth, trees grow, can become dangerous, rot and eventually die. Locals will be aware that tree trimming has been in progress in the Knocknashee area for the past couple of weeks, and rightly so. No matter how much we value the natural beauty of trees, far too many people are injured/killed by falling branches and trees every year. Tree Surgeons love trees too and do not see their role as 'destroyers', but rather as protectors of the environment and ourselves ...

Money Plus, open now in Boyle

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Money Plus are experienced investment and financial brokers who have been in the business of financial and investment planning for many years. They are dedicated providers of financial planning advice to clients. Money Plus is a professional independent financial planning and advisory firm specialising in all areas of Wealth Management including mortgages. The Money Plus Group aim is simple - to provide your customers with the best advice in a straight forward and honest manner.
Money Plus, Bridge Street, Boyle (beside the town bridge). Website [here...]

Boyle Musical Society

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realboyle photo from the 2013 concert

"We look forward to presenting a very special Midsummer Concert this June in St. Joseph's Parish Church, Boyle. Following on from the success of last year's unforgettable concert, audiences are guaranteed a spectacular night of entertainment, once again featuring songs from the Musicals and much more! Tickets for this unique event will go on sale in May 2014."
BOYLE MUSICAL SOCIETY AGM in Dodd's Bar, the Crescent, on Thurs May 1st at 9pm. All are invited to attend. Plans are already underway for this year's show, due to be staged in November.


BHSS Golf classic

New Logo
Logo © Sean O'Dowd

Boyle Horse & Summer Show (BHSS) will hold a Golf Classic in Boyle Golf Club on Saturday 10th May. The community of Boyle are asked to come out and support us in our fundraising endeavours. The format will be a 4 ball rumble costing €25 pp with hot food included. Please contact 086 203 9182 to book your team.


Are you registered to vote?

People are urged to ensure they are registered to vote ahead of the local and European elections next month. The elections will take place on the 23rd of May. Register by going to the website "checktheregister.ie".


Did you know?

Potatoes contain almost zero% fat? There is a very nice website, and a Blog updated daily with great recipes, all based around the humble spud. check them for yourself [here...] and [here...]
If you have a Facebook presence you might like to try their delicious fish bake with any white fish of your choice on this Good Friday. Serve it with some buttered baby potatoes and get your Easter Bank Holiday Weekend off to a good start! [here...]

Boyle Chamber of Commerce - Roscommon Herald

Boyle Chamber of Commerce notes with concern the announcement yesterday of job losses at the Roscommon Herald. This is particularly disappointing news in the context of commitments made in recent months by many businesses to advertising in the newspaper. At a time when a number of new businesses are opening in our town and coming at a busy Easter weekend of exciting events in the Boyle area, it is especially important that our local does not lose the hard-working journalists, photographers and other staff who have served our community so well over many years.

Boles of Boyle

Boles of Boyle Specials
 

 

New Owners for Green Isle Factory

Boyle factory for new owners

Local Government TD, Frank Feighan has welcomed the news that terms have been agreed to purchase the former Green Isle factory in Boyle.
"This is very positive news for the town and I understand that a similar line of business is being developed for the factory. Significantly, the jobs prospects for the town and surrounding areas are very good and I expect further information in the future on the exact developments for the former breading factory, which closed in 2006 with the loss of more than 100 jobs.
There have been ongoing efforts to promote the facility to suitable investors. Indeed, just last February, Minister of State for Small Business John Perry and Enterprise Ireland Director Barry Egan met with a local delegation in Boyle recently to explore ways of attracting potential investors to develop the factory.
At that meeting, the Boyle delegation, comprising members of Boyle Town Council and myself, discussed a range of proposals regarding the site with Minister John Perry and Barry Egan.
I'm delighted that plans for the factory have now progressed and it has always been the case that Boyle has much to offer investors, including good road and air links and renowned natural scenery and heritage."


Segway Smiles and Electric Bike Rides

Segway Smiles at Lough Key Forest Park

It was Segway Smiles and Electric Bike Rides all round at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park over the weekend. The Segway "Rockingham Roll" guided glide around the beautiful trails of Lough Key Forest Park is available daily until April 27th. Glides last approx 40 to 50 minutes including full training. Glides start at 11am (for bookings only), 12:30 pm, 2pm, 3:30pm and 5pm. You are welcome to walk up on the day but we recommend booking online either on our website or by using the Booking tab on our Facebook page.
The Electric Bike Rides will be available all season and offer you and your family an opportunity for stress-free Electric Bike Trips around our gorgeous Lough Key Forest Park, and yes, there are even 'Buggies for Babies'. Call to Seamus Gibbons and his staff at the EBR office beside the Visitor Centre

Lough Key Forest Park, Electric Bike Rides




Improve and edit your photos for FREE.

There is a FREE easy-to-use photo editor at http://www.aviary.com/. You can download it as a app to your smartphone (iPhone or Android) and all of your Windows 8, Tablets, iPad or Apple machines ... or you can edit your photos online.
Most people who have this app may never need Photoshop or any of the other Photo Editors.
ps/ It may not work on older systems than windows 8


King House Bealtaine Festival: FREE for 55+

Dance: Elderberries Dance Ensemble, Thurs 8/15/22/29th 11.30am- 12.30pm. Gentle movement and dance for fun especially for the over 55+
Cinema: "Quartet" Wednesday 7th May 2pm (Directed by Dustin Hoffman), a "wickedly comic film" about re-defining old age and growing older with hope.


Go Raibh Míle Maith Agaibh Go Léir

The Board of Management of St. Joseph's B.N.S would like to say a sincere thank you to all who helped in any way to make their Fashion Show a resounding success. In particular we are very grateful to Mary and Cathal Mc Gee and Gerard Sheerin along with their respective staff/ helpers without whom the night could not have happened at all. Thank you to Cllr. John Cummins who sponsored the wine reception on the night. Míle buiochas to all local businesses who helped with sponsorship of the event in any way (Please remember to support local businesses in Boyle) Thank you also to the models on the night, Marie Lavin, Dermot Leydon, Tom Cleary and Tommy Egan who willingly gave of their time and expertise in support of this school event. To the many parents who helped behind the scenes, our school secretary, Parents Association and last but not least our boys who helped to sell the tickets, a sincere THANK YOU.

Clarke's Bar & Restaurant

Clarke's Bar & Restaurant

 

"Find My Phone" app

Shannonside FM report: Gardai are advising smartphone users to download a phone tracking application in case of their mobile phone being stolen. Gardai in Athlone recovered a mobile phone in the Monksland area by using a phone tracking app the owner had installed.

"Calvary"

I saw the film "Calvary" in Carrick Cineplex. John Michael McDonagh wrote a story that could happen in real life today, it starts dramatically in a confession box, lays down possibilities and the unexpected story ending left me and other viewers silent and even stunned as they left the cinema. There is an excellent cast led by Brendan Gleeson, Chris O'Dowd and Kelly Reilly with appearances by Pat Shortt, Domhnall Gleeson, Aiden Gillen and others you will recognise. Calvary was filmed on the Sligo coast near Easkey and close to Ben Bulben, so the scenery is quite spectacular. Don't miss this one! View the trailer [here...]

Choose Boyle ... why?

Here are some reasons: Boyle's West of Ireland location, beautiful local scenery, access to the N4 National Primary route, all of the 7 up and 7 down (soon to be 8) daily trains stop at our Dublin/Sligo line railway station. We are 25 miles from Sligo City and Atlantic Ocean seaside resorts, 45 minutes from Knock International Airport, close to us are the River Shannon and 3 large famous lakes, a plethora of historical treasures, sports and social clubs abound.
• We have prime Tourist Attractions: King House, Boyle Abbey and Lough Key Forest Park. We have leading edge schools, houses and business premises for sale, an active Chamber of Commerce, High Speed Broadband, no pollution, a friendly "live and let live" attitude, fine shops and services, many highly talented inhabitants as well as excellent accommodation providers, restaurants and services.
• Where is Boyle? View our location on Google Maps [here...]



Deputy Feighan welcomes €400,000

Local Government TD, Frank Feighan, has warmly welcomed a total allocation of €400,000 in HSE funding for the upgrade of facilities at two nursing homes in County Roscommon. The Plunkett Nursing Home in Boyle is to receive €300,000 while Áras Mháthair Phóil in Castlerea is to be allocated €100,000.
Frank wrote "I am delighted that the HSE has approved this funding under the Minor Capital Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) Compliance Works 2014. The two nursing homes have provided quality care to elderly people for many years and these funding allocations will now allow both to complete works to ensure they are fully compliant with new HIQA standards to be introduced in 2015."


Electric Bike Trails at L.Key Forest Park

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Realboyle Photo: Mairead McGuinness MEP and Seamus Gibbons, Electric Bike Trails

Another great attraction: Bike Hire Base in Lough Key Forest and Activity Park from 11th April. 7-8 km traffic free cycling for all the family plus other exciting routes outside the park to choose from. Take a cycle on our Tandem or get the electric bike experience.
 

Boyle Civic Art Collection - meet Kate Bell

Kate Bell

Kate Bell is delighted to join the Boyle Civic Art Collection Trust as an assistant, through the JobBridge internship scheme, with hopes of securing funding for longer term employment. Read more about Kate [here...]
Boyle Civic Art Collection is now widely considered as a collection of paintings and sculptures by the very best of contemporary Irish artists. The acquisition of works commenced in 1990, and the ever-expanding collection now is in excess of 150 paintings and sculptures. Read about the Boyle Civic Art Collection [here...]


Lough Key Classic Cycling Sportive in Boyle

Curlieu Wheelers graphic

Curlieu Wheelers member wrote: "I would be delighted if you could feature this on realboyle as its not an event until its makes realboyle :)" ... Ahhh, the way to this man's heart!!
The inaugural Curlieu Wheelers "Lough Key Classic" cycling sportive will take place on Saturday May 17th 2014. Starting and finishing in the picturesque town of Boyle the event will feature 120k and 60k routes.
Read the full article
[here...] View the Full poster [here...]

Woodland Segway at Lough Key Forest Park

Colm Berry wrote: The support and positive feedback from the local community is great and very heartening. When I'm fully up and running in the summer I'll be providing guided historical Segway tours at Lough Key that will highlight the shared history of Rockingham and Boyle. I'm hoping that visitors will be enthused by the history of the area and that they will visit the sites in Boyle such as King House and Boyle Abbey that I'll talk about in the guided tours. In that way I hope there will be a real spin off of additional visitors to Boyle as a result of Woodland Segway at Lough Key.

Are you ready for SUPERFAST broadband from Eircom?

eFibre - superfast fibre broadband from eircom delivers speeds of up to 70Mb so that everyone in your home can connect all at the same time, faster than ever before. Your home is about to change forever. It will be available to Eircom customers from next month (May '14) in the Boyle area and beyond. eFibre Unlimited will be available for €35 per month, first 6 months for new customers, 50 euros per month thereafter.

Tawnytaskin/Deerpark/ Corrigeenroe Text Alert Area

Some residents in the Tawnytaskin/Deerpark/ Corrigeenroe areas are considering the setting up of Text Alert. The annual cost to each household would be 5 euros. Members of the steering group will visit households to explain what is involved and to find out if there is sufficient interest to proceed with the idea

Get Certified in 2014

Places available now at Roscommon Learning Links, Boyle. Full Time (32 weeks approx)
Level 5 Information Processing Major Award
Level 4 Information & Communications Technology Major Award
To register now for the course call DSP-Employment Services on 090 663 2903/663 2910. For Further detail on the courses call Martina or Siobhan on 071 966 4510 or visit www.roscommonlearninglinks.com

Flowers, Boyle

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Daffodils have a special place in our affections. They colourfully mark an exit to winter and our hopes for a pleasant summer. Since mid March this year we been enjoying a great crop of daffs, so maybe we will have a great summer too ... fingers crossed. Daffodil day in Boyle in aid of the Irish Cancer Society was a cool one, but the response was a warm on with over 6,700 raised for this worthy cause.

More flowers, Carrick

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It is such a lovely time of year. I took this photo on the quay in Carrick

Boyle Town Council - final full working meeting

Boyle Town Council
Front: John O'Rourke (Ros Co Co) Mayor Marie Egan, Eileen O'Callaghan (Town Clerk)
Back: Cllrs Christy Brady, Keith Suffin, Jan Flanagan, Raymie Maughan, Peter Flannery, Frank Geelan, Mary Clifford. Missing from photo, Cllr Jane Suffin who was unable to be present

On Tuesday April 1st, Boyle Town Council met for its final full working meeting. Boyle Town Council will cease to be from May onwards alongside 80 town local authorities in Ireland. Ireland's 3 year old government have brought the end to Local Government that has been in existence for over 100 years, and a Municipality for over 400 years.
Boyle Town Council will meet again for a monthly meeting on May 6th for a celebratory farewell in King House.
  In days to come, and many times in the future we will have reports, comment and references to the sterling work done by the current council and council members who served our town so well in the past.
For the moment let matters rest with a sincere - "Thank you Boyle Council ... we will miss you!"

Organic Foods v Cancer

Eating pesticide-free organic food does nothing to reduce a woman's risk of cancer, a study has found. Researchers asked 600,000 women aged 50 or over whether they ate organic food and monitored their health for nine years. In fact, a small increased risk of breast cancer was seen in organic consumers, but this result could be due to other factors or pure chance, the scientists said. Read more [here...]

Civil Weddings at national heritage sites

Seven national heritage sites have been made available as venues for civil wedding ceremonies, the Government has announced, but Boyle Abbey is not one of them.
   Minister of State for the Office of Public Works Brian Hayes also expects a further nine heritage sites around the country to be available for civil ceremonies by the summer. I believe that couples will be shocked to learn that they can expect to pay between euros 300 and euros 600 for the use of the sites.

Roma Grill

Roma Grill, Boyle

Formerly "The Little Chick", Boyle, Lucio now runs the business as "Roma Grill"


Feelystone, Boyle

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Feelystone, Greatmeadow, Boyle have completed their stage 2 refurbishment.
Stage 1 included displays of a range of modern Fitted Kitchens [here...]
Stage 2 Includes displays of a wide range of Grave Memorials and Sculptuires [here...]
   Call and browse at Feelystone. Quality products, unbeatable service and aftercare.
   View the Feelystone website [here...] For enquiries please call 071 966 2066

Roscommon Hospital - an appreciation

Pauline wrote: I would like to take the time to offer my sincere gratitude to the staff of Roscommon Hospital who looked after my husband Jimmy through his recent illness. It has been a difficult time for Jimmy, myself and all the family, and their care and support has made a big difference to all of us.
Under the direction of Dr. Gerard O'Mara, the staff in both the General hospital and the Sacred Heart, could not do enough for Jimmy. Their encouragement and expertise (particularly the wonderful OT, SLT and Physio teams) and the support of his own GP, Dr Marian Brogan, have made it possible for Jimmy to be in his own home again, and for all of us to face the challenges ahead together.
With appreciation and thanks, Sincerely, Pauline Doyle & family

East Brothers, Boyle

East Bros 2014

 


The Legend of St. Patrick's visit to Boyle

St. Patrick actually visited the area. Somewhere near Copse or maybe Cornameeltha, Patrick asked locals for water for his horses, but they wouldn't give him any, and as they did not recognise him, said to him "clear off ya vagabond".
(I guess we tend to do the same with preachers at our door nowadays!)
Undeterred, Patrick (not yet a Saint) camped near Assylinn and created a well by the edge of Boyle River for his entourage and his horses. The well is still there, though seldom visited by anyone, and appropriately known as 'St. Patrick's Well'.

Cooney Motors

Cooney Motors Qashqai Bettered


 

Faces of Boyle

Some years ago I developed a Flickr set called 'Faces of Boyle'. Since then some of those photographed have died, and now I need to update the set. View the set and look out for updates [here...]

Watercare Complete Solutions

Watercare Banner Advert

Family Life Centre

Family Life Centre
The Family Life Centre provides a range of supports, services and clsses :-
Support for the Suicide Bereaved, Paediatric First Aid, Bereavement Support, Mixed Media Art, Adult Irish Conversation classes, Counselling& Psychotherapy, Foot Reading, Yoga, Pilates. For information, please contsct the centre on 071 966 3000

From A Cardiac Specialist ...

Drinking water at a certain time maximizes its effectiveness on the body
2 glasses of water after waking up - helps activate internal organs
1 glass of water 30 minutes before a meal - helps digestion
1 glass of water before taking a bath/shower - helps lower blood pressure
1 glass of water before going to bed - helps to avoid stroke or heart attack

Google Maps - Boyle

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Google Maps is a great resource. Photos of Boyle were taken on a visit to Boyle by the Google team some years ago. View some [here...]
Just as soon as the weather improves I will take a set of photos of the same locations, showing how the town looks now ...

World Health Organisation warns of cancer spread


The World Health Organisation is warning of a 'tidal wave' of cancer spreading across the globe.
Figures released to coincide with World Cancer Day, show the number of cases is expected to jump 75 per cent in just twenty years. The Irish Cancer Society is urging people to make changes to their diet and lifestyles. Obesity, lack of exercise and high alcohol intake will be major contributors to the cancer spread.