Fintan Quirke retired last week from the Bank of Ireland after 44 years continuous service. He was a well-known figure as he carried out his duties in and around the bank, and his cheerful disposition and unfailing good humour made him popular with everybody.

Ho took over the post from his grandfather, John Quirke, Main Street, in 1962 and has worked under no less than nine different managers. He is the only present member of staff to have worked in the old bank building which was replaced by the present structure in the 1970s

He has a lifetime love of amateur dramatics and his contributions to the many local productions down through the years have been immense, both onstage and behind the scenes.

A function was held for Fintan in Jack Foley’s bar at the weekend during which relatives and friends gathered to celebrate and wish him well in his retirement.

We add our good wishes to Fintan and his family on a long and happy retirement.

The Square will never seem the same without him.

SUPPORT GROUP

Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group will hold weekly meetings starting on Tuesday 17^th October in St Ita’s Hall. It is hoped that those who have been bereaved by death or separation will find these meetings helpful. For further information contact Kathleen Kennelly at 068-31262, Sr. Delia at 068-31203 or Sr. Elizabeth at 068-51984.

ALERT:

If you are aged over 65 and living alone, or with a person or persons aged over 65 you can apply to the local committee of Community Alert for a security system. Contact Phil on 068-31221 for further details.

RED CROSS;

Basic first aid courses for teenagers and adults have commenced at St Ita’s Hall on Wednesday nights. The times are 7-8pm for those aged between 4-16 years, and 8-9pm for adults.

TRAIL:

The Great Southern Trail committee wish to thank all who contributed to their recent Church gate collection. A walk is being planned for the October Bank Holiday weekend and details will be announced shortly.

RUGBY;

Abbeyfeale were beaten 22-3 away to Newport on Sunday in the first round of the Munster Junior League. They play Tralee in The Grove next Sunday 15^th October. Kick-off is 3pm.

GAA:

Fr Casey’s recorded a 2 point win over Dr Crokes in The Inch on Sunday. They will meet St Senan’s in the county senior football final at the Gaelic Grounds on next Sunday week, 22^nd October.

SOCCER;

Abbeyfeale Utd A maintained their 3 point advantage at the top of the premiership with a 2-0 win over Kildimo at Riverside Park on Sunday morning. Pat Fitzgerald scored twice for the Fealesiders. Abbeyfeale U/17’s were beaten 2-1 away to Ballingarry.