SEAMUS O’TOOLE

SEAMUS ‘SEAMIE’ O’TOOLE is something of a stalwart in Rathdrum due to his services to the local community.

Seamie started the Christmas lights in Rathdrum some 13 years ago and ensures they are up in place every year, regardless of the weather conditions.

He fundraises for the lights tirelessly, calling door to door to sell lines for a raffle and contacting businesses to sponsor the lights. Even during the terrible snow of 2010, Seamie could still be seen wearing wellies and knee deep in snow while calling around to various homes.

He was nominated by Daphne Cullen and Karen Kennedy, who maintain that the lights would never be put up or taken down without Seamie.

‘He organises all our volunteers no matter what the weather is like. He gives up so much of his own time to do this. It should also be mentioned that his lovely wife Patricia always cooks a great breakfast for the lads as well.’

Over the years there have been some problems with the Christmas lights, due to bad weather and electrical faults. Over the festive period it wouldn’t be unusual to see Seamie up a ladder fixing the lights in the wind, rain, sleet and snow

Seamie has also worked with Rathdrum Tidy Towns, Rathdrum playground and outdoor gym, the St Patrick’s Day parade and Avonmore Football Club to mention just a few.