Castlelyons Community Centre celebrates 50th anniversary

Every village and town needs a focal point and invariably, it’s the community centre. The last 2 years or so have seen these normally busy locations fall silent, however, better times are on the way, as was evidenced by last Saturday’s celebratory function marking the 50th anniversary of Castlelyons Community Centre.

Founder members, their families and friends were treated to a most pleasant afternoon by the present committee, who are headed by long time activist, Michael Barrett and the centre’s efficient secretary, Pam McCarthy. In welcoming guests, Michael said it was entirely fitting that such a significant milestone be acknowledged.

“Thanks to some progressive thinking, Castlelyons Community Centre opened in 1972, since then, it has played host to countless events and accommodated a variety of organisations and voluntary groups. Thanks to the most recent refurbishment, it’s once again looking splendid. This afternoon, we are reflecting on what’s been achieved and looking forward with confidence to the future,” he told attendees.

In her address, Pam McCarthy outlined the role of the GAA in purchasing the site the centre now occupies. With regard to those who got the project off the ground, Pam said great credit was due to all concerned.

“We were privileged in Castlelyons to have people in our community who had the ingenuity, work ethic, drive and enthusiasm to build and manage a community centre. We, as a community, shall always be thankful for their foresight and never forget their pioneeering spirit,” she said.

BUILDING ON A SOLID FOUNDATION

Finance is as important now as it was in 1972 and with a view to raising funds, the executive of Castlelyons Community Centre have devised a ‘Buy A Brick’ campaign. For a fee of €50, an individual’s name will be inscribed on a brick and incorporated into the centre. Families, groups or businesses can also be catered for.

The initiative was formally launched at last Saturday’s event and is already generating a lot of interest. Those in a position to subscribe are encouraged to contact any of the following: Donal O’Leary, Anthony O’Regan, Jacinta O’Leary, Matt Hegarty, Con Lawlor or Kathy Drislane.

Anyone who wants to make a personal donation to the centre should get in touch with either of the joint treasurers, Trish Lawlor or Michelle Fenton.

(Pic: John Ahern) Founder members in 1972, who were special guests at last Saturday’s 50th anniversary celebrations in Castlelyons Community Centre - front, Dave Hegarty and Patsy McCarthy; back, l-r: Florence Waters, Donal Howard, Brid Healy, Pat Crowley and Matt Hegarty.

(Pic: John Ahern) LEFT - Representatives of founder member, the late Douglas Burgoyne, who attended last Saturday’s 50th anniversary of Castlelyons Community Centre - front, Julie and Mark; back, l-r: Colm, Cliona, Elaine, Bernard, Emma and Jack Burgoyne.

(Pic: John Ahern) Part of last Saturday’s celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Castlelyons Community Centre, were, front: Mary O’Brien, Mary O’Connell and Mary Martin; back: Sonny O’Brien and James Martin.

(Pic: John Ahern) Chairman, Michael Barrett and secretary, Pam McCarthy (left), addressing those who attended last Saturday’s very pleasant function in Castlelyons Community Centre, marking the facility’s 50th anniversary (1972-2022).

(Pic: John Ahern) Members of the Dorgan family enjoying last Saturday’s 50th anniversary celebrations in Castlelyons Community Centre - Martin, Michael John, Andy John, Jade and Robyn.