Dungarvan Men’s Shed

The interest in cribs has really taken off and Dungarvan Men’s Shed is busy making customised cribs of all sorts and shapes in the shed. Their nativity cribs will be used in a church and in many homes. In some countries, such as Italy and Malta and many South American countries, the crib is the most important Christmas decoration. The city of Naples in Italy has used cribs to decorate houses and churches since the 1020s! Dungarvan Men’s Shed is open from 10am-1pm Monday-Friday.

The Ashbourne Men’s Shed

Ashbourne Men’s Shed installed a beautiful crib in the grounds of the Ashbourne parish church for the parishioners. The group worked on the design and construction of the new crib over several weeks. In addition to the drop-in centre and allotment, the group are actively seeking a permanent site for DIY and hobbies in the new year. Contact Hugh Stevens on 088-669 1529 for more information.

Bruff Tidy Towns Envirofest

Bruff Tidy Towns is organising a full day of family activities and events that will help people to learn and care about the local and natural environment. This will take place at the Kirby O’Sullivan Centre, Bruff, Co Limerick, on 15 January from 2-6pm. Children’s activities include tree walks and scavenger hunts. This Envirofest will be of interest to all community groups, schools and individuals who would like to learn more about wildlife and other aspects of the environment.

KC Men’s Shed

KC Mens Shed has just launched a calendar for 2017, A Shed with a View, which features 12 beautiful scenic views of mid Kerry. Their shed is open for members who want to develop a welcoming social shed. It offers men pool, darts, chess, a library, a poly-tunnel and other activities and classes for men’s health and wellbeing. They don’t make anything to earn income from donations, so besides a fashion show and quiz nights, they decided to put together a calendar with the help of local sponsorship. The calendar costs €5 in Benson’s shop in Keel or by contacting Martin on 086-228 8313. Although open at other times, the shed is always open every Wednesday evening at 8.30pm.

Christmas poem

Decorations on the Christmas tree.

Family gathered again we see.

All around with snow is white.

Carol singers under stars so bright.

Christmas turkey and brussels sprout.

Season’s greetings shared about.

The joy of Christmas each heart will bring.

When children’s laughter in the streets will ring.

The peace of Christmas my gift to you.

For the old year and the new.

– By Ger Dalton of