Have you lost your phone?

This phone was found on a seat in The Valley. The owner can retrieve it from An Tearmann. 

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Appreciation for Paddy's Congo service

Paddy Burke from Conroy Park was honoured recently with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his service in the Congo in 1963, writes Brian Byrne. His career also included further service in Cyprus and Lebanon. 

The certificate was awarded by the Irish United Nations Veterans Association to members of the Defence Forces who served in the Republic of the Congo between 1960 and 1964, during what was the first armed peace support mission undertaken by the Defence Forces.

The certificate cites the courage, fortitude, soldierly conduct, and sacrifices by personnel, which brought great credit to Ireland and the Defence Forces and contributed to the effective fulfilment of the United Nations Security Council mandates.

Issued in recognition of the dedicated service and contribution made during a complex and dangerous mission, in the cause of world peace.

Over the course of his military service, Paddy spent more than 41 years stationed at the Curragh.

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The Song Cycle coming to Kilcullen cinema

A reminder that the next film at Kilcullen Bridge Cinema on TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 12th, is a unique event of film, chat, and song, writes Teresa Nurse of Kilcullen Lions. The Song Cycle is a new film from Nick Kelly, acclaimed musician (The Fat Lady Sings) and filmmaker (The Drummer and the Keeper). 

It opened at the Irish Film Institute on May 1st to great reviews, and the film is now showing at selected cinemas across Ireland. Each event screening will involve Nick travelling sustainably to the location (primarily by bicycle) to attend the screening, and then performing live after the screening. The result will be a unique mini-touring programme incorporating cinema, music, and sustainability.

The Song Cycle is a charming documentary that tells Nick’s story of how, in 2022, he decided to cycle from his home in Dublin to the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England — carrying his guitar, tent, and all the other essentials. He was accompanied by his friend and ‘Dogs’ collaborator, Sean Millar, who was following the same route on public transport. The pair stopped to perform in different venues along the route, making their way towards a grand finale at Glastonbury. 

The journey proves a celebration of sustainability in its many forms, while also allowing the filmmaker to thoughtfully reflect on his relationship with his late father, the esteemed politician and academic, John Kelly. Inspired by environmental concerns, the film also explores music and friendship and is uplifting, humorous, and thought-provoking. 

Come for the film and stay for the chat and music. It promises to be a wonderful event. Tickets are now on sale in Woodbine Books, Kilcullen, and on Eventbrite.

Doors open at 7pm. Film 7.30pm followed by a concert at 9pm. 

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The passing of Alan Sheridan

The death has occurred of Alan Sheridan, Avondale Drive, Kilcullen, on 9 May 2026, suddenly at his residence. Alan's passing is very deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents, Lynda and Philip, sisters Karen and Lisa, sons Jake, Jamie, Scott, and John, grandmother Madge, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours, and his many friends.

Funeral arrangements later.

Rest in peace.

Generous Pieta walk response

Photos and report by Healthy Clubs Committee.

From 4am on Saturday, 9 May, people gathered at Kilcullen GAA for the second Pieta House Darkness into Light event run by the Healthy Clubs Committee of Kilcullen GAA. Women, men, and children arrived, some individually, some in pairs, in family groups, and even with a few family dogs — but all with one purpose in mind: to reach out and to support those who feel they have little hope and those affected by suicide. 

Maurice O'Brien initiated proceedings, welcoming the crowd of approximately 150, and invited everyone to begin their walk at 4:30am on the Field of Dreams community walkway around Kilcullen GAA grounds. People began in silence to the orchestra of sound produced by the dawn chorus, but soon, the murmurings of voices joined birdsong as the Dawn Walk community proceeded on their way. 

A very welcome breakfast of sausage baps awaited the walkers at the finish, Maurice O'Brien acting as head chef and ably assisted by Joe Dooley. Raggy's Cafe provided tea and coffee, which helped dispel the chill! 

Thanks to the organisers of the event and volunteers who helped: Bróna Dooley, Maurice O'Brien, Emma Mc Larnon, Joe Dooley, Esther Reddy, and the staff of Raggy's Cafe, Jay, Olivia, and Francesca Lambert-Mills, and thanks to Kilcullen GAA for its support. 

Huge thanks to all who attended and donated to this special cause. A total of €1,320 was raised at the event and has been lodged for Pieta House.

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Listen: Thirty years of TY at CPC

 

Glenda Groome, Transition Year Coordinator at Cross and Passion College, Kilcullen, for the past 21 years, talks briefly about the impact of 30 years of the initiative at the school.

A rough and Ready Production by Brian Byrne for Kilcullen Diary.

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The passing of David Elliott

The death has occurred of David Elliott, Johnstown, Kilskyre, Kells, Meath, and formerly of Carnalway, Co Kildare, on 8 May 2026, peacefully after a short illness at Our Lady's Hospital, Navan. 

Predeceased by his loving wife Barbara, his baby son Aidan, and his brothers Billy and Walter, and cherished father of Mark, Sandra, Wayne, Suzanne, and Trevor, David will be sadly missed by his daughters-in-law Carol and Lorraine, his sons-in-law Doney and Rob, his adored grandchildren Conor, Naoise, Owen, Zak, Sinéad, Danny, Shannen, Shona, and Senen, his great-grandson Kray, his dear sisters May and Nora, his sister-in-law Mary, extended family, many friends, and neighbours.

Funeral arrangements later.

Donations may be made to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in memory of David Elliott.

Rest in peace.

Kildare Inclusivity Festival today

A reminder that the 2026 Kildare Inclusivity Festival is being held TODAY, Sunday, 10 May, at The Curragh Racecourse from 11am to 6pm, bringing together families, community groups and organisations for a day focused on disability inclusion, accessibility and celebration.

This year’s free family-friendly festival has a range of new features designed to make the event more welcoming for everyone. Among the additions for 2026 are a Vehicle Demonstration Zone, an external music stage and the KARE Inclusive Sports Zone. Returning attractions will include the Family Fun Zone, Barretstown Magic Moments and CKAN’s Our World Inclusive Toy Display.

The event, hosted by County Kildare Access Network (CKAN), Kildare County Council, and partners, will include a dedicated Quiet Zone, a Quiet Entrance, and a Quiet Hour from 11am to 12pm to support visitors who may benefit from a calmer environment.

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Pregnancy yoga class for Kilcullen

A Pregnancy Yoga class will begin on Saturday, 6 June, at the Mountain Flow Yoga Studio on Hillside, Kilcullen. This supportive 70-minute class with Kayleigh Herbert is designed for all stages of pregnancy after 14 weeks. 

Each session combines gentle movement, strength building, pelvic floor awareness, and calming breathwork to support your body through pregnancy, labour, and beyond.

More than just a yoga class, this is a space to slow down, connect with your growing baby, and feel supported throughout your journey into motherhood.

Kayleigh Herbert is a 310-hour trained yoga teacher with additional studies in pregnancy, women’s health, yoga, and tantra. Inspired by her own motherhood journey, she is passionate about creating nurturing and supportive spaces for women. 

Classes take place every Saturday at 10:30 am from 6 June. Booking is available through the LegitFit app. Simply download the app, search for Mountain Flow, and book your class there.

For any questions, please contact Beata on WhatsApp: 087 363 11154.

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Free workshop to help craft businesses build brands

A free marketing workshop aimed at craft makers, designers and creative business owners will take place in Naas on 9 June 9, writes Brian Byrne. Hosted by Local Enterprise Office Kildare, Focus on Craft & Creative – Building Your Brand and Telling Your Craft Story will run from 10am to 12.30pm at MERITS, Naas.

The interactive session is designed to help participants develop a strong brand identity and communicate their story more effectively to customers. Topics will include brand foundations, craft storytelling, visual identity and practical marketing tips.

The event is intended for those in the craft and creative sector who want to stand out in a competitive market.

Booking is available online at this link. 

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Learn about cancer research at NUI Maynooth

Image: NUI Maynooth.

People interested in learning more about cancer research will have the chance to step inside one of Ireland’s leading research institutes later this month, writes Brian Byrne. Maynooth University’s Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research will host a free public event, Step Inside Cancer Research in Ireland, on Thursday, 21 May 2026. 

The event will take place from 6pm to 8pm, with tea and coffee available from 5:30pm at the Bioscience and Electronic Engineering Building on North Campus, offering attendees an opportunity to learn more about the latest developments in cancer research and the work being carried out by scientists in Ireland.

The event is free to attend, but advance registration is required. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with only 100 spaces available.

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Steve expands his music academy

It has been quite a journey for Steve Hulgraine since he first began teaching guitar at Kilcullen Community Centre over a decade ago. From those early days as Hult Guitar Academy to the successful launch of Born to Strum Music Academy in Crookstown Craft Village, Steve’s mission to bring music to the heart of South Kildare continues to hit all the right notes.

To meet growing demand, Steve has recently expanded the premises, doubling the school’s capacity with the addition of a second state-of-the-art studio. The expansion is not just about space; it is also about diversity in sound. Born to Strum is now one of the few schools in the region to offer professional harp lessons, led by Margaret Lawler, who recently returned from a successful St Patrick’s Day tour across the USA. The academy also features Margaret’s sister, Mary Lawler, whose teaching spans Irish fiddle, classical violin, and piano. 

For those looking to turn up the volume, Neil Foley joins the faculty as a lead electric guitar specialist and former student of the legendary Nicky Brennan. 

“The goal of the school is not only to help people master the art of music, but also to build the confidence of all our students, both young and old, and to allow them to play music with freedom, joy, and passion,” says Steve. “With Mary, Margaret, and Neil now on board, I’m excited for the future of the school and where we’re headed.”

With summer camps planned through the first three weeks of July, the academy continues to offer young musicians a welcoming place to learn, grow, and play together.

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Dowling Property: Sika Cottage, Donard, Co Wicklow

Dowling Property is pleased to present this distinctive four-bedroom detached residence, constructed from cut stone, for sale. Nestled in the picturesque Glen of Imaal and bordered by stunning mountain vistas, it is conveniently located within an hour's drive of Dublin. The property occupies approximately 0.85 acres of mature land, abundant with wildlife, including the notable presence of Sika deer as frequent visitors. The site boasts extensive road frontage, two separate vehicle entrances, and a large detached workshop at the rear.

The cottage has been maintained in excellent condition and has been sympathetically decorated, featuring ornate ceiling beams and exposed internal granite walls. The accommodation comprises an entrance porch, a charming sitting room with a wood-burning stove, one bedroom, a kitchen, a master bedroom with an en-suite, and a family bathroom. Upstairs are two double bedrooms. The kitchen is a standout feature — modern, bright, and generously equipped with storage.

All essential amenities are conveniently nearby, including a local shop, a creche, and primary schools in Donard and Donaghmore. Additional amenities, such as secondary schools and retail outlets, are accessible in Baltinglass and Dunlavin. The location is ideal for enthusiasts of hill walking and cycling. We advise early appointments to view this postcard-pretty property to avoid disappointment. It is truly a gem! One not to be missed!

AMV €350,000. For further information, please visit dowlingproperty.ie or contact our Kildare Office at 045 482189.

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ELMS Open Day today

A reminder that the ELMS Early Learning Montessori School will hold an Open Day TODAY, Saturday, 9 May at 10.30am in its premises at Kilcullen Community Centre.

The event will give parents and guardians an opportunity to meet the team, explore the classrooms, and learn more about the school’s Montessori approach in a child-centred environment. Information will also be available on free ECCE places offered by the school.

The open day is aimed at families interested in early years education and those considering Montessori for their children.

For further details, contact ELMS Montessori on 087 6343037 or visit www.elmsmontessori.ie.

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