24th Mac & Norman Rally well supported

There was a good spectator support for the 24th Mac and Norman Rally that went through Kilcullen in the early afternoon, writes Brian Byrne. Though we don't have figures yet, it did seem that the event had at least as many participants as before. 

Afterwards the rain held off back at Mac Sully's yard where the usual charity auction was held and the drivers enjoyed refreshments and music.

A selection of the vehicles is shown. All the Diary's pictures from the day can be accessed here.

Photographs use Policy — Privacy Policy

Heritage events in County Kildare today

National Heritage Week events today in Co Kildare include museums, exhibitions, big house and garden tours, and theatre, writes Brian Byrne. Officially opened yesterday, Heritage Week will run until 23 August.

Those interested in old farm tractors and classic cars can see them in action as they drive through Kilcullen today from around 1.15pm, in the 24th Mac & Norman Vintage Run in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. At the Old Kilcullen Picnic on the Green, there will be displays of local historical interest as well as free fun events for the whole family.

Military history takes centre stage at the Curragh Camp, where the Curragh Military Museum is hosting its exhibition, Showcasing Irish Military History in Kildare From the 1600s, from 2pm to 5pm. Families and science enthusiasts are also gathering at The Steam Museum & Lodge Park Walled Garden in Straffan, open today from 1pm to 4:30pm. For those looking to explore local community stories, the Sallins Local History Society has opened its Sallins - A Visual History Photo Exhibition at Cafe Grange, welcoming visitors between 9am and 4pm.

Architecture and garden lovers have an array of historic homes opening their gates today. In Celbridge, the historic Kildrought House is hosting visitors from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Guided heritage tours are also underway at Harristown House in Brannockstown from 9am to 1pm and the medieval Leixlip Castle on Pound Street from 10:15am to 12:15pm. Those looking for panoramic views can ascend the Tower of Allen (Aylmer's Folly) until 4pm, while Maynooth offers peaceful exploration at Moyglare Glebe in the morning and St Mary's Church of Ireland on Parson Street in the afternoon.

Today's festivities will conclude under the evening lights as the Griese Youth Theatre presents its New Lights showcase, running until 11:45pm, ensuring the county's heritage celebrations continue well into the night.

Photographs use Policy — Privacy Policy

Kildare Bee Man honey on sale

Paul and Majella Leighton had a bumper harvest of honey this year, and it is now available to buy at €8 a 227g jar.

The product is Raw Irish Summer Blossom Honey, produced on an organic farm in Co Kildare. It is lightly filtered and never heat-treated, helping to preserve its natural flavour, aroma, and goodness.

Contact Kildare Bee Man at 087 2941206. Orders can be collected in Kilcullen on weekday evenings after 6pm.

Photographs use Policy — Privacy Policy

Strong support for AFC girls' international trip

Many thanks to the local community who have supported our under-16 girls Kilcullen AFC team in their fundraiser yesterday morning, writes Yvonne Carey Tyrrell. Nearly €1,000 was raised in a bucket collection towards their international tournament in Cambrils this October. 

They are the first juvenile all-girls team in Kilcullen and are also the first girls’ team to represent the club at an international tournament. 

They will play their cup final next Sunday, 23 August, against Maynooth. Any further support is most welcome. 

Photographs use Policy — Privacy Policy