Tidy Town

Volunteers for Saturday’s Clean up are asked to assemble at The Leisure Centre Car Park at 11am, Saturday morning, April 3. We urge as many people as possible to help out. Judging for the Tidy Town competition starts in June so it is essential that Buncrana looks its best. There will be refreshments for children as usual in The Four Lanterns after the clean up. Pickers and bags will be provided.

Inishowen Wildlife Club

The above isholding a talk by Lorcan O’Toole ,manager of the Golden Eagle Reintroduction Project, in Dunree Fort Museum on Friday, May 2 at 8pm. Admission free all very welcome.

Buncrana Pantomime Society

We would like to confirm that the Pantomime Ali Baba will take place in January 2009. Details later. There is a change of date for James Kilbane Concert. It’s now Monday, June 23 in St Mary’s Hall.

Oliver, the musical

We are now recruiting for Loiver to be performed in November in St Mary’s Hall. If you are interested in taking part in any way. Please attend an open meeting in the Community Centre.

Sliabh Sneacht Challenge

The annual Sliabh Sneacht Challenge bike race and hill climb for the Eamonn Noone Memorial Perpetual Cup at the North Pole bar takes place on Sunday, May 4 at 2pm. Leisure cyclists, walkers or hill climbers are very welcome. For more information telephone 0749362388.

Final Quiz

The final quiz was held on Thursday night last in O’Flagherty’s bar. Snow Patrol won and the Oxymorons came a very close second. Buncrana Hearts who organise the quiz would like to thank all teams that participated in the quiz, but special mention must go to Snow Patrol, the Oxymorons, the Quarrelsome Foursome, Frivolous Quizers, The Mushroom farmers and Brendan Crummey’s team who changed their name every week. The quiz will recommence after the summer break on Thursday September 18 in O’ Flaherty’s at the usual time.

Camera Club

A meeting of the Camera Club Inishowen will take place Thursday, May 1 in Serenity House, Moville starting at 7.30pm. All welcome to join or to just visit us.

Transport talks

The Inishowen Development Partnership is now consulting with the community throughout Inishowen in order to ascertain transport needs in the peninsula and to draw up an effective plan to address those gaps in transport that impact most on the community.  This is part of the Rural Transport Programme which is a national programme that supports the provision of public/community transport in rural areas.  The three consultations arranged are as follows: Monday May 12 at 7.30pm, Tullyarvan Mill, Buncrana; Tuesday, May 13 at 7.30pm,  Bocan Hall, Culdaff; Wednesday, May 14 at 7.30pm, Quigley’s Point Community Centre. For further information contact Pauline/John at Inishowen Development Partnership at 07493-62218

Cinema

Monday, April 28 to Thursday, May 8 at 8.15pm In Bruges(16). Bingo as usual Friday and Saturday at 9pm. Big prizes paid out on the night.

Buncrana Parish Draw

First Prize 500 euro Devin Callaghan, Clonglash. Promoter 30 euro, Rosemary Doherty. Second Prize 300 euro, Claire McLaughlin, Dunree. Promoter 20 euro. Third Prize 150 euro, Maureen Cuffe. Promoter Bridget McLaughlin 20e uro.

Community Games

This is for athletes under 8 to under 16. Thursday, May 1 at 7pm sharp at Buncrana Leisure Centre.

Inishowen Athletics

Five-km and one-mile races on May 9 for ages between 11 and 16 year old and 5-km walk for walkers and runners. All events start an finish at Culdaff PO. Further details on 0863426698.

Charity Auction

In aid of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research to be held in Tullys Bar, Carndonagh on Sunday, May 4 starting at 6pm.  Many items to be auctioned including a helicopter ride, signed sporting and showband memorabilia, a full day pass to Rally School Ireland, weekend breaks, VIP ticket to Villa Park. Come along and treat yourself or a loved one to a fantastic present while helping a very worthy cause.

Inishowen Gardening Club

A plant sale will be held on Monday, May 26. Venue to be announced.

Inishowen Community Radio

The AGM of Inishowen Community Radio will take place on Thursday, May 8 at 7.30pm in the offices of the Inishowen Development Partnership (formerly IRDL) in Pound Street, Carndonagh. Everyone is welcome to come along to the meeting and, as always, any community group that wishes to become a community group member of the station need only pay their annual 20 euro membership fee. The fee can be paid before the AGM by sending a cheque to Inishowen Community Radio, Unit 4, Pound Street, Carndonagh, or else can be paid on the night.

Irish Seniors Open

Members interested in volunteer work during Irish Seniors Open (Friday, June 20 – Sunday, June 22) should contact the office on 074 93 76119. Also entries a
re now being taken for the Irish Seniors Open Pro-Am. Please submit names to the office on 074 93 73119.

Sponsored Walk

In aid of the Alan Doherty Fund on Sunday, May 18 at 3pm. Leaving Sr Mary Hall Clonmany via Binion, Tullagh, Rusty Nail and back to the hall for refreshments. A shorter route is also available. Music and Raffle in James Tames at 10.30pm. All cards returned will be entered into a draw. Sponsor cards are available from Eddie on 9376781 or Breege on 9376391. Please support this worthy cause.

Flower Festival

The festival at Loreto House, Linsfort runs from May 2 – 5 next and features world famous florists such as Steve Betts, Karen Sanson, John McDonald, Christine Skipper, Milton Porter, Deborah Richardson, Jane Marsh and Heather Shaw as well as acclaimed Japanese designer Kazihide Egawa. Further information from www.loretoflowerfestival.com or by phoning Michael Doherty on (00 353) 074 93 62204.

Trainees needed

Film trainees and interns from the Inishowen area are needed by the makers of the family drama ‘A Shine of Rainbows’. The movie will be shot in Malin Head in May and June and the producers are now looking for trainees and internships for a range of positions. They will hold interviews in Carndonagh over the next two weeks. Please email your CV to Maria at sorainbows@gmail.com. You can also call 074 9373718 for more information.

Buncrana Nursing Unit

The unit is looking for active volunteers to provide entertainment for a small group of elderly residents, one evening per week. No special ability required.  Contact Maria 074 9320300.

Scoil Iosagain

Tesco vouchers, old mobile phones and used ink cartridges wanted.  Many thanks.

Buncrana Senior Citizens’ Committee

The committee is presently looking for voluntary drivers for a meals-on-wheels service. Meals are delivered on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours. Drivers are on an 8-week rota system. Please contact Jim 9361666.

Gaelscoil Bhun Cranncha

Foirmeacha iontrála do Mheán Fómhair ’08 ar fail ón oifig scoile anois, nó scairt a chur ar an runai scoile ar 0749361988. Spriocdháta iontrála 9ú Bealtaine.

Application forms for September ’08 are currently available from the school office or by phoning the secretary on 0749361988. Closing date for applications is May 9.

Buncrana Notes

Inishowen Community Radio

The AGM of Inishowen Community Radio will take place on Thursday, May 8 at 7.30pm in the offices of the Inishowen Development Partnership (formerly IRDL) in Pound Street, Carndonagh. Everyone is welcome to come along to the meeting and, as always, any community group that wishes to become a community group member of the station need only pay their annual 20-euro membership fee. The fee can be paid before the AGM by sending a cheque to Inishowen Community Radio, Unit 4, Pound Street, Carndonagh, or else can be paid on the night.

Irish Seniors Open

Members interested in volunteer work during Irish Seniors Open (Friday, June 20 to Sunday, June 22) should contact the office on 074 93 76119. Also entries are now being taken for the Irish Seniors Open Pro Am.   Please submit names to the office on 074 93 73119.

Foyle and Donegal Hospice

The Foyle & Donegal Hospices Buncrana Support Group, present a social evening of Entertainment and Floral Art Exhibits in the Lake of Shadows Hotel, Buncrana on Thursday, April 24, at 8pm. Admission is 5 euro including a savoury supper. Approximately 100 displays and various prizes (all donated) will be raffled on the night. Entertainment will be provided by Pauline Saunders, Kathleen Morris, Stewart Buchanan, James Boyle & Irish Dancing by Aidan & Rachael McGinley, who are all giving their time free of charge. MC on the night will be Nicholas Crossan. Everyone is very welcome. Please bring a friend & support this worthy cause.

DUP mayor visit

A first ever visit by a DUP mayor of Derry to a meeting of Buncrana Town Council is due to take place early next month. Mayor Drew Thompson was invited by Buncrana mayor Paul Bradley during a joint  Derry-Buncrana trade delegation to the American town of New Bedford during St Patrick’s Day week.

Buncrana Quiz Scene

An under-strength Oxymorons (Eithne and Dympna) won a very close competition by the minimum margin from Snow Patrol with the Quarrelsome foursome + One in third place. Sharon Smith joined the Quarrelers but it just goes to show many heads in this situation make hard work. The quizmaster Paddy Corr had a tremendous performance despite lots of detractions from the admiring masses. A get-well wish to Michael McLaughlin of the Oxymorons. We hope to see him fighting fit and back at the quiz soon. The popular quiz continues Thursday at the usual time 9.30pm in O’Flaherty’s Bar.

Sponsored walk

In aid of the Alan Doherty Fund on Sunday, May 18 at 3pm. Leaving Sr Mary Hall, Clonmany via Binion, Tullagh, Rusty Nail and back to the hall for refreshments. A shorter route is also available. Music and Raffle in James Tames at 10.30pm. All cards returned will be entered into a draw. Sponsor cards are available from Eddie on 9376781 or Breege on 9376391. Please support this worthy cause.

Flower Festival

The festival at Loreto House Linsfort Buncrana runs from May 2 – 5 and features world famous florists such as Steve Betts, Karen Sanson, John McDonald, Christine Skipper, Milton Porter, Deborah Richardson, Jane Marsh and Heather Shaw as well as acclaimed Japanese designer Kazihide Egawa. Further information from www.loretoflowerfestival.com or by phoning Michael Doherty on (00 353) 074 93 62204.

Farm safety month

April has been designated Farm Safety Month so all farmers in and around the Buncrana area are asked to be aware of the dangers that exist around them – particularly electric appliances, slurry tanks and potential dangers above and below.

In memory

The late Mick O’Hagan remembered by Kevin McDonald. Anyone who knew Mick realised they had met an exceptional guy. He was always cheerful and ready with a song. He had a great voice, a wonderful smile and always a pleasant word. He was 86 and was one of 14 children raised in a two-room cottage in Old Mountain, Buncrana. Raised with little or nothing, he made it in the world by sheer hard work and talent. I remember him especially for his kindness and craic and for his lovely singing voice. He used to be one of the group that would visit the Nazareth House on Wednesday evenings, along with Frank and Teresa Doherty, Willie Breslin and a few others to entertain the residents of that fine place. He got as much enjoyment from it as it gave others. May he rest in peace and may his family be consoled by having him as their own.

Sympathy Notice

Sincere sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Manus Grant, Lower Illies, Ballymagan, Buncrana.

Cinema

Monday to Thursday at 8.15pm 10,000 B.C (12a) Matinee Sunday April 20 at 3pm Legend of the Deep (gen) Coming Sat  April 19 for 5 nights The Game Plan     (gen)

Summer Hogmanay Weekend

Last year’s effort in gathering and introducing those of Scottish origin, background or connection in our Parish and beyond was a great success. It’s on again this year on the last weekend in August. We need some more people to help in organising it. There will be a  meeting in the Lake of Shadows on Tuesday April 15 at 8pm.

Swilly Gardening Club

The club will meet on Monday, April 21 at 8pm in the Angling Centre, Jacqueline Doherty, Willow Hill Garden Centre will give advice on summer bedding and how to plant tubs and window boxes. Competition: best potted bulbs or seeds. New m
embers welcome, contact 9361606.

Buncrana Nursing Unit

The unit is looking for active volunteers to provide entertainment for a small group of elderly residents, one evening per week. No special ability required. Contact Maria 074 9320300.

Contractors wanted

Scoil Iosagain’s board of management wishes to invite competent and experienced painting contractors to tender for external painting works proposed to the school. Please note that further instructions and a tender package may be obtained from the parish office from Monday, April 21, tel. 0749361253.

Country Market

The country market will take place on Saturday, April 19 and Saturday, May 3 from 2-3pm in the Church Hall.

Buncrana Youth Club

All-weather 5-a-side football pitches available for hire. Special rates available for April bookings.  Tel. 9361594

Forever Fathers

Next meeting on April 21 at 8pm in the Inishowen Partnership Offices.

Vivid Performances

Presents children s speech & drama workshops, Mondays from 4pm 6pm in Tullyarvan Mill. More information from Emma Porter on 0863601537.

Scoil Iosagain

Wanted, Tesco vouchers, old mobile phones and used ink cartridges.  Many thanks.

Buncrana Senior Citizens Committee

The committee is presently looking for voluntary drivers for meals-on-wheels service. Meals are delivered on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It takes approximately one and a half hours. Drivers are on an eight week rota system. Please contact Jim 9361666.

Book Sale

In St Mary s Hall, Burt on Saturday, April 19, 11am-5pm and on Sunday, April 20 from 2-5pm. Proceeds in aid of the Oncology Unit in Letterkenny Hospital. Books very welcome, can be collected – contact Kathleen 0749368373.

Gaelscoil Bhun Cranncha

Foirmeacha iontrála do Mheán Fomhair ’08 ar fail ón oifig scoile anois, no scairt a chur ar an runaí scoile ar 074 93 61988. Spriocdháta iontrála 25u  Aibreán.

Leading light lost

Buncrana has lost one of its leading citizens with the passing of Philip Diggin. Philip aged 51 was a local Councillor and a former Teacher at Crana College. He also was an excellent sports man and was renowned for his Soccer Skills. He had served on a number of committees during his political career including the Donegal Vocational Education Committee (Donegal VEC), The Harbour Committee, The Tidy Town Initiative Committee and The Maginn Park Committee. He topped the poll in the 2004 local elections and was also a former chairman of Buncrana Town Council. He taught for 27 years in Crana College and was the life and soul of all staff outings. His rendition of the song Two Little Boys was his party piece. He is survived by his Wife Paola and his children Carlo and Matthew, his mother Annie and three brothers Frank, Finton and Stephen. He will be very sadly missed by all of us who knew him.

Hogmanay

The Hogmanay in August committee is holding a meeting on Tuesday, April 15 at 8pm in The Lake Of Shadows and would like to see new faces. They propose to hold another Hogmanay the weekend from August 29 to August 31. We thank everyone for their support and help.

Foyle and Donegal Hospice

The Foyle & Donegal Hospices Buncrana Support Group, present a social evening of Entertainment and Floral Art Exhibits in the Lake of Shadows Hotel, Buncrana on Thursday, April 24, at 8pm. Admission is 5euro including a savoury supper. Approximately one hundred displays & various prizes (all donated) will be raffled on the night. Entertainment will be provided by Pauline Saunders, Kathleen Morris, Stewart Buchanan, James Boyle & Irish Dancing by Aidan & Rachael McGinley, who are all giving their time free of charge. MC on the night will be Nicholas Crossan. Everyone is very welcome. Please bring a friend & support this worthy cause.

Litter Warden

It was reported last week in this column that a litter warden was appointed to Inishowen. However, it has been brought to my attention that this warden has no jurisdiction in Buncrana. The warden was appointed by the county council and therefore is responsible for areas controlled by the County Council which is all of Inishowen except Buncrana. Letterkenny has an urban council who appointed its own warden. Buncrana would have to do the same.

Quiz Night

The popular quiz held in O’Flagherty’s Bar on Thursday night last was a keenly contested affair. A large group of Scottish visitors competed and although the talented Neil Boyle was in their ranks, they only managed to fourth on the night. The winners were The Quarrelsome Threesome. Their success can be attributed to the fact that their was one less member on the team to argue with. Runners up were Snow Patrol. Back on Thursday at same time. Quizmaster was Paddy Corr and score keeper Derek Smith.

Retail Complex

Buncrana is in line for a major new retail complex complete with two-storey car park at Ardaravan Square. It was reported yesterday that An Bord Pleanála has granted permission to Dublin’s Palladio Properties to build a 6,528 square metre retail centre and car park comprising nearly 450 spaces. It will be built beside discount supermarket Aldi.

Tidy Towns Initiative.

The above committee wishes to extend their sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Philip Diggin. He was a founder member of the committee and worked diligently for the betterment of Buncrana. He led by example and turned out every Saturday with his children to tidy up areas of the town. His example we hope will be an example to all.

Good-as-new shop

This is located beside Abrakebabra, Buncrana and lasts for 5 days from yesterday until Saturday, April 12 in aid of Donegal Hospice  Please support this worthy cause.

Da Capo Concert

The first of three concerts from the Da Capo Concert Series for 2008 organised by a new Inishowen community-based music group takes place at the Fowler Hall, Tooban, Fahan, Inishowen on Friday, 2 May 2008 at 7.30pm. Tickets will cost 10euro or 5euro concession. These concerts are supported by the Arts Council of Ireland. Two further Inishowen concerts featuring musicians of international renown are being planned for September in Carndonagh, and for November in Buncrana.

Dance champions

Congratulations to Rachael and Aidan McGinley from Buncrana, pupils of McConomy School of Irish Dancing, who competed in the World Irish Dancing Championships held in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast from March 23 – 30. Rachael came 11th in the ladies’ 18 to19 age group on Friday and Aidan won his competition on Saturday, the men’s 1-to 21 age group, making him world champion 2008.

Tidy Town Initiative

The announcement of a new litter warden for Inishowen is great news but will one warden be enough for such a large area? The Spring Clean Week is in full swing but there is still time for everyone to do a little bit. Think about waste management, litter control, chewing gum and recycling. The programme for the remainder of the week is Wednesday Tidy Up at Marian Park. Assemble outside Maginn Park at 6.30pm. Thursday April 3, St Mura’s and Crana College Tidy-up. Ludden Residents Clean-up. Assemble at Ludden Car Park at 6.45pm. Friday, April 4, Youth Reach Tidy-up. Shore Front Residents clean up. Assemble at Tennis Courts at 6.45pm. Saturday, April 5, Millbrae Residents’ Clean-up. Official start of Saturday Morning Clean ups. All Tidy Town Committee and Volunteers meet at Ludden Car park at 11am. A reminder that the next monthly meeting will take place in St Mary’s Community hall at 7.30pm.

Parking Protest

Buncrana Town Council is to hold a workshop at the end of April to discuss the issue of parking charges off the Main Street. A nin-person deputation from areas including Millbrae and Castle Avenue attended Buncrana town council meeting last week. The least they expect is one parking permit per house. Residents spokesperson Jim Quigley said if the residents do not receive satisfaction following the workshop, then a repeat of the protest outside the chamber last December could be on the cards. He says legal action is also a possibility.

Marine park

Tony McLaughlin, the peninsula’s tourism boss, said on radio recently that new efforts to set up a state-of-the-art marine park in Buncrana are being made and this could be funded out of a 98-million euro tourism fund. Plans to build a three million euro centre in either Buncrana, Moville or Bundoran had already been on the cards and Bundoran was chosen as the ideal place. Buncrana wasn’t chosen because, at the time, it was claimed dye from the former Fruit of the Loom factory was polluting Lough Swilly. This is not the case anymore so Buncrana with the backing of all of Inishowen could have a good case.

Sympathy Notice

Your prayers are asked for the recently deceased members of our community and for their families and friends saddened by their loss. Willie Monaghan, 56 Marian Park, Buncrana, Susan McGowan , 27 St. Joseph’s Park, Buncrana, Kathleen (Cassie) Fitzpatrick, Paddy Doherty (Boss) 4 Maginn Avenue, Buncrana, Isabel Deehan and Teresa Nixon, 10 Lough View, Buncrana.

Reduce, reuse, recycle.

A meeting in the library on recycling and litter takes place tonight (Wednesday, April 2) at 8pm.T his is in conjunction with Buncrana Spring Clean Week. This is free and all are welcome.

Camera Club

The Inishowen Camera Club meets in Serenity House, Montgomery Terrace, Moville on Thursday April 3 at 7.30pm. The theme of the meeting is Black and White conventional photography. There are always delighted to welcome new members.

Driftwood

A quantity of driftwood has accumulated at the Stone Jug. This would be ideal firewood for some enterprising individual. The look of the area would also be improved.

Depression group

A support group for people who experience depression meets on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 7.30pm in the nursing unit. Come along or phone 9735030 for more information.

British pension

If you are in receipt of a British Pension or have not claimed a British Pension and you are a man born between April 6, 1933 and October 24, 1939 or a woman born between April 6, 1938 and October 24,1944 you may be entitled to increased pension and arrears back. All other information on British pensions, even if you worked in Britain for only one year is also available. Phone (074) 9128010 and ask for the information officer.

Cycling lessons

These will re-commence on Saturday, April 5 at 10pm in Buncrana Youth Club. For further information phone 9362571 or 087 1353780.

Illies Community

A meeting will be held in the Club House at the Illies football pitch on Thursday, April 3 at 8.30pm. Everyone welcome.

Good-As-New-Shop

This is located beside Abrakebabra, Buncrana and lasts for five days from Tuesday, April 8 until Saturday, April 12 in aid of Donegal Hospice  Please support this worthy cause.

Cinema

For 5 nights Monday to Thursday at 8.15pm JUNO (15A) Matinee Sunday, April 6 at 3pm Alvin and the Chipmonks (gen) Coming Saturday, April 5 for 5 nights Over Her Dead Body. Bingo as usual on Friday and Sunday at 9pm. Big prizes paid out on the night.

School enrolments

Enrolment forms,for children wishing to attend the following schools in
September 2008 are now available: St Oran s NS.Cockhill & Pre-school: 9361807 Scoil Naomh Pádraig, Drumfries:  9363396 Gaelscoil, Bhun Cranncha:  9361988 St Egney s N.S. Desertegney: 9362008 Scoil Naomh Iosaf, Illies: 9362212 Scoil Iosagain: Open-night in school library on Thursday, April10. 9362450.

Da Capo Concert

The first of three concerts from the Da Capo Concert Series for 2008 organised by a new Inishowen community-based music group takes place at the Fowler Hall, Tooban, Fahan, Inishowen on Friday,  May 2 at 7.30pm. These concerts are supported by the Arts Council of Ireland. Two further Inishowen concerts featuring musicians of international renown are being planned for September in Carndonagh, and for November in Buncrana

Ar Ais Arís

The eagerly awaited Ar Ais Arís festival takes place this week starting Thursday, March 27 and finishing with a grand finale on Sunday, March 30. For tickets or any information contact info@buncranatradfest.com or ring Louise 086 8829019. The programme for the week includes Friday, March 28, 2008 World Premiere of Franceso Walks in the The Inishowen Gateway Hotel at 8pm, doors open 7.30pm. This is followed by The Pyros’ late-night gig (Over 18s). On Saturday, March 29 The Next Generation, the Plaza, doors open 2.30pm Commencing 3pm. On Saturday, March 29,  Sharon Shannon and the Renegade in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel at 8pm followed by The Pyros at midnight – over 18s. On Sunday, March 30, céilí mór in the Plaza, doors open 3.30pm commencing 4.30pm. Also on Sunday, The AAA Festival Finale in The Inishowen Gateway Hotel, doors open 7.30pm commencing 8pm.

Bypass to Foyle Bridge

People from Buncrana and indeed the whole of Inishowen who want to travel to Coleraine or Belfast can now use the newly opened £4m Skeoge Link Road which will shorten their journey time considerably. This seems to be the fastest piece of engineering ever accomplished because it seems no time ago that work on this started. In comparison the inner relief road in Buncrana has been going on for over 30 years. Journey times to Derry could be improved further because the Northern Ireland Roads Service is investigating the feasibility of improving the A2 Buncrana Road in Derry between Pennyburn roundabout and the border with Donegal.

Garda charity walk

Gardaí are asking members of the Inishowen community to join them  on their 10-k charity sponsored walk. The Talk to Me walk is held every year in the five Donegal Garda Divisions to raise funds and awareness about suicide. Proceeds from the Buncrana walk will go this year to Living Links which helps families bereaved by suicide. The walk will take place on Sunday, March 30 at 3pm. Walkers will start from the Lake of Shadows Hotel car park and will proceed in a 10-K loop via the Shore Front, Stragill and back towards town. If you would like to make a donation you can do so at any local Garda station. Sponsor cards can be picked up at Buncrana Garda station at Lisfannon. For more information, call 07493 20540.

Maginn Cresent

Residents of Maginn Cresent have shown what community spirit is all about when they collectively organised the cleaning and landscaping of an open area in the cresent. According to Margaret McGinley, the residents have been planning this over a number of months. She said they have an assurance from the town council that a soak pit will be installed and she also said that a large boulder with Maginn Cresent engraved on it will be placed at the entrance to the avenue soon.

Sympathy notice

Your prayers are asked for Daniel O’Connor, Kathleen Davis, Castle Park, Buncrana, Bridget Lynch Aughaweil, Buncrana and Daniel Lynch, 71 Cockhill Cottages, Buncrana who were buried recently and for their families and friends saddened by their loss.

Spanish students

Interested in keeping a Spanish student in July or August? Come to a meeting in Scoil Iosagain library on Monday, March 31 at 8pm.

Cinema

Monday, March 24 for four nights at 8.15pm Rambo (18s) Coming Saturday, March 29 for five nights Juno (15A) matinee Sunday March 30 and Sunday, April 6 at 3pm Alvin and the Chipmonks (gen)

Fás jobs

Buncrana Sporting Association has the following vacancies – three general operatives, one part-time administrator for Cashel na Cor and one part-time playschool assistant for the Naiscoil, Buncrana. Please contact Tony Morrison, Angling Centre (9363733) or Aisling Sheehy, Inishowen Partenrship Co. (9361376) for further information. Closing dates for applications is the Friday, March 28.

Céilí Mór

This will take place in the Illies School on Friday,  March 28 from 10pm to 1am. Admission 5 euro, music by The Cottage Ceili Band. All very welcome.

Aware Depression Support Group

Feeling sad, anxious or low, not sleeping? You could be depressed and there is help available. Phone helpline on 1890303302 or www.aware.ie. There is also a support group for people who experience depression who meet on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 7.30pm in the nursing unit. Come along or phone 9735030 for more detail.

Lotto results

Sinn Feín lotto draw results for March 19. Winning Nos 3, 11, 15, 22. One match three numbers 100-euro winner C/O Paddy Grant, Buncrana. Next week’s jackpot is 2,675 euro.

Tidy Town initiative

The Tidy Town committee would like to thank all those involved in their St Patrick’s float, especially the children and the young adults who participated. Well done to Liam Igoe, manager of SuperValu, and his staff for their tremendous work in organising the banners and float. The Tidy Town committee would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the organisers of the parade who every year bring tremendous crowds to the town. The next item on the Tidy Town agenda will be Buncrana Spring Clean Week which takes place from March 31 to April 5. Anyone wishing to take part is more than welcome to do so and if anyone would like to find out more call 0862103911.

Flights for sale

Due to unforeseen circumstances, five return flights from City of Derry to Liverpool have become available, leaving City of Derry on Friday, April 11 and returning on Sunday, April 13. The flights are available for £60 (ono) each having originally cost £100. If you are interested or if you have any questions about the flights then contact Brian on 0868177718.

Ar Ais Arís

Volunteers wanted. Anyone wishing to help moving chairs, putting up posters, helping in the festival office etc please contact info@buncranatradfest.com or ring Louise 086 8829019.

Litter busters

Spy cameras disguised in bird boxes may be set up in Inishowen if dumpers from both Donegal and across the border don’t stop littering. However, a civic amenity site based in Buncrana, like the one based at Carndonagh, would also alleviate the problem considerably. By the way, the one in Carn opens on a Monday and Wednesday from 8.30am to 4.30pm and on a Saturday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

Grants available

Inishowen Tourism has been informed that applications are now being taken for the latest round of funding under the government’s Tourism Capital Investment Programme 2007 to 2013.The types of activities which qualify for this type of funding include, creation of international class visitor attractions, upgrading of existing attractions, support for the development of great gardens, investment in activity/adventure projects including: watersports centres and boat rental, outdoor activity centres and equestrian/horse-riding facilities and angling. For more information contact www.failteireland.ie/ndp.

Buncrana tourist office

The tourist office opened its doors on St Patrick’s weekend and will do so each weekend during Spring.

Sympathy notice

Sincere sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Daniel O’Connor, formerly of Gortlake, Linsfort, Buncrana.

Fás jobs

Buncrana Sporting Association has the following vacancies – three general operatives, one part-time administrator for Cashel-na-Cor and one part-time playschool assistant for the Naoiscoil, Buncrana. Please contact Tony Morrison, Angling Centre (9363733) or Aisling Sheehy, Inishowen Partenrship Co. (9361376) for further information. Closing dates for applications is the Friday, March 28.

Anti-social behaviour

Nightclubs in Buncrana may be forced to shut shop an hour earlier after gardaí revealed around 200 crimes take place when the clubs close. Buncrana gardaí are considering asking the courts to cut the amount of serving time allowed in clubs in a bid to curb anti-social behaviour.

Charity shop

A charity shop takes place Wednesday, March 19 in Impulse Shop, next door to Crossans. Proceeds for Gerald Harrigan who is taking part in Niall Mellon Challenge to build houses in South Africa. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Irish Cancer Society

Irish Cancer Society would like to thank all who helped in any way during Daffodil Day. The sum of 5,670 euro was raised.

Céilí mór

This will take place in the Illies School on Friday, March 28 from 10pm to 1am. Admission 5 euro, music by The Cottage Ceili Band. All very welcome.

The Old Tech Reunion ‘77

The organisers wish to thank all who attended on the night and also to all who bought tickets and couldn’t attend. Proceeds have been donated to the patients’ comfort fund at the nursing unit.

Depression support

Feeling sad, anxious or low, not sleeping. You could be depressed and there is help available. Phone helpline on 1890303302 or www.aware.ie. There is also a support group for people who experience depression who meet on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 7.30pm in the nursing unit. Come along or phone 9735030 for more detail.

Quiz Night

The quiz held in O’Flagherty’s bar on Thursday night last saw Snow Patrol confirm their position as number one quiz team in Buncrana. However, other teams such as The Quarrelsome Quartet, Oxymorons, The Likely lads and The Mushroom Farmers and
the rest may just be a bit peeved at this and will no doubt be out to topple them from their throne. The quiz continues each Thursday night from 9.30pm.

Cinema

The cinema is closed until Sunday, March 23 inclusive. Coming Monday March 24 for four nights at 8.15pm Rambo. Bingo as usual on Friday and Sunday at 9pm. Snowball. Big prizes paid out on the night.

Easter commemoration

The keynote speaker at this year’s Republican Easter Commemorations in Buncrana will be Raymond McCartney MLA. Those taking part are asked to assemble at Cockhill Park on Easter Sunday, March 23 at noon for the march to St Mary’s Cemetery, Cockhill. 

Buncrana Notes

Charity sale

Youthreach Buncrana/Glengad annual sale of work in aid of charity will take place in the Adult Education and Training Centre, Shore Road, Buncrana on December 8 from 11am to 2pm. Everyone is welcome. Come along and see the wonderful range of handmade items in metalwork, woodwork, arts and crafts, home baking and jewellery etc. For further information ring 9362466 between 9am and 4.30pm.

Golf Club AGM.

Ballyliffin Golf Club members please note the 62nd AGM will take place in the golf club on Sunday December 9  at 6pm.

Lost and Found

Bracelet found at the West End in Buncrana on November 18. Contact 0862116316 for more details.

A brown and white half Collie dog has been found, contact 9361107.

Craft sale

The Nursing Unit, Buncrana will hold a craft sale on Thursday, December 6 at 2pm. Tea and Coffee served. All welcome.

Record Fair

A Record Fair will be held in Rodden’s Bar on December 8 between  2 – 5 pm. Telehone 086 8664554 for more details.

Flower show

A flower presentation by Josie Coll will take place in The Lake of Shadows on Thursday, December 6 at 8pm in aid of St Mura’s National School. All welcome.

10,001 Santas

This event takes place on Sunday, December 9, Derry City Walls. Application forms available from iCare Shop, (next to Abrakebabra, Buncrana). Proceeds to iCare, Children in Crossfire, Foyle Hospice & Macmillan Cancer Support. Further details on 086 1081200.

Northwest Gold Club

Annual Christmas Bingo starts next Sunday December 2 for 4 weeks at 7pm. This bingo has been running for many years now and has always been a big favourite  for all the family. All very welcome.

Lost

A white envelope containing a substantial sum of money (sterling and euro) was lost on Tuesday, November 20 between Sainsbury’s and  Fosters, Strand Road, Derry. If you have any information about this please contact 04871 377002 or Strand Road Police Station.

Quiz Night

An exceptionally large crowd assembled in O’Flaherty’s Bar on Thursday night last to compete in Paddy Corr’s and Derek Smith’s general knowledge quiz. Standing room only was the order of the night. Paddy must have been in a generous mood because his questions were decidedly easier than in previous occasions. This was manifested in the high score obtained by the Winning Team Snow Patron who accumulated a massive 77 out of 80 points. There was a three-way tie for second, which had to be decided by a tiebreak. Excitement grew as it took ten questions to decide the issue with Not The Mushroom Farmers edging out The Quarrelsome Quartet and The Oxymorons. The highlight of the night, though, was the raucous rendition of Happy Birthday for Helena Foley. Next Thursday night’s quiz is in aid of Ella O’Connor of The Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.

Buncrana GAA

Indoor Hurling training has started in The Crana College gym on Sunday mornings from 11am to 1pm for eight to ten-year-olds.

Cross-border craft fair

The North West Rural Women’s Project will be holding and exhibition and concert which will take place in Garvagh Community Building on Friday, December 7. The proceeds are in aid of the Primary School Building Fund in Ghana.

Memory tree

A Memory Tree of Lights for those bereaved by suicide will be held by The North West Bereaved by Suicide Group on Sunday, December 9 at 5.30pm at the Foyle Search and Rescue Headquarters, Victoria Street, Derry. The purpose of this event is to remember loved ones lost to suicide and to support families and friends during the holiday season, which can be and especially difficult time.

Country markets

This will be held in The Church Hall, Church Street, Buncrana on December 8 and 22 from 2pm to 3pm. All welcome.

Cinema

Monday to Thursday at 8.15pm December 3  to 6 Lions For Lambs (12a). Coming Saturday December 8 for 5 nights Good Luck Chuck (16) Matinee Sunday December 9 and 16 Nancy Drew at 3pm. Bingo on Friday and  Sunday at 9pm. Snowball: 10,200 euro. Big prizes paid out on the night.

Buncrana Parish Draw

Buncrana Parish Draw, Week 3, Sunday, November 25.  First Prize 500 euro McGuinness Wane’s, Crana View, Promoter 30 euro,  Bridget Hepper;  Second Prize 300 euro, Jim Henderson, Lisowen Avenue, Promoter 20 euro, Marie Deehan; Third Prize 150 euro Annie McGroarty, c/o Edith Doherty, Promoter 20 euro Edith Doherty.

To contact the Buncrana notes email cjquig@eircom.net, phone 07493-62043. Please have your items for inclusion in before 1pm on Friday.