Lotto fever swept through the town last weekend as rumours spread that the winner of the €16m jackpot was from Abbeyfeale!

And out on the porch during 12 o’clock Mass on Sunday you could hardly get a word in edgeways, such was the conjecture as to who the lucky winner might be, with everyone looking suspiciously at the person next to him and wondering was it him (or her) Particular attention was paid when the collection basket came around to see if anybody made an unusually large contribution – but no one did.

Some said that a retired creamery manager from Ballaugh was seen acting in a very peculiar manner on Saturday evening, just after the numbers had been announced on RTE. It was alleged that this particular individual was spotted by several reliable witnesses dancing around the kitchen with the handle of a brush while giving a very loud and off-key rendition of “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.” However, it later transpired that the gentleman in question was merely rehearsing his part for an upcoming variety concert at the Glorach Studios.

A little man from Grogeen, who has imbibed half pints of Guinness all his life, was seen to invest in a double brandy in Jack O’Rourke’s on Saturday night, prompting speculation that he might be about to come into money. Discreet questioning uncovered the fact that the little man had invested a shilling each way at 25/1 on Padraig Harrington to win the British Open, and had collected his winnings from Lal Browne that very afternoon and was now in celebratory mood.

And a women perceived to be keenly examining the housing market through Stack’s Auctioneers window in The Square also attracted major attention until it was established that she was merely adjusting her head scarf through her reflection in the glass.

There were numerous other reported unusual sightings and strange bouts of behaviour throughout the weekend. However the excitement quickly evaporated on Sunday evening when it was finally revealed that the jackpot had been won in Cork.

Que sera, sera. What we never had – we’ll never miss!

HOLIDAYS

Many people are home on holidays in the area at present, visiting relatives and friends and enjoying the local activities and amenities. Unfortunately, the weather has not been too kind, but a big improvement is forecast over the coming days. Galway Races are on this week, and most of the Abbeyfeale Mafia are up there trying to take a few honest bob from the bookies.

CHARITY;

Orla Tobin, a former Rose of Tralee and a member of The Roses on RTE’s Charity You’re A Star programme, has strong Abbeyfeale connections. Her father, Matty, grew up in the town, while her mother hails from just over the Kerry border in Duagh.

GAA:

Fr Casey’s remain on track to retain their minor county championship title following an impressive 1-13 to 2-3 win over Killmallock. The Fealesiders have now won all four of their opening games and look set to qualify for a county semi-final spot.

Meanwhile, Limerick hurlers had a good win over Clare in Croke Park on Sunday and now await the winners of the drawn Cork V Waterford game in the All Ireland semi final. Wexford play Kilkenny in the other semi-final.

RUGBY:

Abbeyfeale RFC are back in training for the new season. Training continues at The Grove each Tuesday and Thursday night at 7.30 pm. New members are welcome.

GOLF:

Mark Heinman will be running another Summer Camp for boys and girls at Abbeyfeale Golf Club on Wedneday and Thursday 15^th and 16^th August. Contact Mark on 087-220966. The President’s Prize takes place on Sunday 12^th August.

SOCCER

Former Abbeyfeale Utd player, Denis Behan, scored for Cork City when they drew 1-1 with Roy Keane’s Sunderland on Monday night. Liam Miller equalized for the visitors. And plans are afoot to form an Abbeyfeale Branch of the Sunderland Supporters Club. Watch this space for further details.