The passing of Nuala Egan

The Diary has learned with sadness of the death of Nuala Egan, following a long illness.

We send our heartfelt condolences to her family at this very sad time, sentiments which we know will be reflected widely across the community.

Funeral arrangements will be posted later.

Billy Hillis, a Comeback Kid?

When Billy Hillis lost his Council seat in 2009, it seemed the end to a long Fine Gael local representative career where by general agreement he had served his community well, writes Brian Byrne.

He had fallen foul of a boundary change which switched Ballymore and some of the Kilcullen part of his voter base to the Athy Electoral Area. Now, with his traditional base back in place, he's running again on the FG ticket for the Naas area.

Kilcullen's population size and mix has changed significantly since he was last a councillor in the area, and he'll have to fight hard to gain recognition in some parts. Still, anyone who knows him also knows that he is a fighter, especially if it's against the odds.

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A thief in the theatre

A sneak thief dampened the enjoyment of last night's performance of 'Belfry' in the Town Hall Theatre for one member of the audience, writes Brian Byrne.

She had left her coat over her purse on her seat before the show began and then went back to the foyer. When she came back, her purse was visible, with all the cash taken but cards left.

"My own fault, and lesson learned," she told the Diary. "At least my cards weren't taken, but people should be made aware that they have to be careful, even here amongst friends."

There are reports of a small boy on his own being seen for a while in the theatre, but then he disappeared.

Audience enjoy Gala opening of 'Belfry'

The audience for the Gala opening night of 'Belfry' presented by Kilcullen Drama Group were treated to a stellar performance of Billy Roche's comedy. There are tickets available for tonight's performance, and the production continues from next Wednesday through Saturday as well. Booking from Bernard Berney Chemist.

Kilcullen link to 'BOD' painting

There's a Kilcullen connection to a painting which will be hung in pride of place at the Aviva Stadium for tomorrow's Six Nations game against Italy, writes Brian Byrne.

The painting is 'BOD', and features the said Brian O'Driscoll in action during the game against France. The story is featured on today's Irish Independent.

It was painted by Leo Clancy, who is the father of our affable Kilcullen florist Dave Clancy.

The artist says the painting, with 12 other players as well as BOD, is an allegory to Da Vinci's 'Last Supper', which features Jesus Christ and 12 disciples.

Leo Clancy was born in Dublin in 1944. He studied at the National College of Art, attending life drawing classes tutored by Maurice McGonigal RHA and portrait painting under George Collie RHA. He has had numerable successful solo and group-exhibitions throughout Ireland and has exhibited work in several Royal Hibernian Academy and Oireachtais Art Annual Shows. He was also the winner of the third prize and seveal commendations in the CDL National Art Competition.

Leo's choice of subject includes landscapes, rural farming scenes, portraiture and still-life. His work may be found in many private collections throughout Ireland, the UK, USA and Germany.