Local Notes: Sympathies, pottery, library events, retirement and hospice gathering
There are lots of things happening in Tramore
It is with great sadness that the death is announced of Avril MacRory, who passed away peacefully on the morning of July 14, in the expert and compassionate care of the Royal Trinity Hospice, London, aged 69 years. Originally from Tramore, Co. Waterford, Avril was a former member of RTÉ in Cork and later the BBC in London, where she was widely respected for her professionalism, creativity, and warmth. She was the CEO of Silverapples Media, but also worked at RTÉ, the BBC, and Channel 4, primarily in music and the arts. She is deeply mourned by her loving husband Val, her beloved son Sam and his partner Kimberley, her brother Simon and sister-in-law Angelica, her cherished godchildren Emma, Roxi, and Tom, her extended family, and her many treasured friends and colleagues whose lives she touched with generosity, wit, and kindness. She was well known for her charity work among the Irish in London. Avril reposed at Poppy's Funeral Home, The Gatehouse, Lambeth Cemetery, London, on Wednesday, August 6. A Humanist cremation service was held at Putney Vale Crematorium, followed by a wake at The Telegraph pub on Putney Heath, where memories of Avril’s vibrant spirit were warmly shared and celebrated. She will be remembered with deep affection and enduring admiration.
We are pleased to announce the launch of our after-school pottery classes for children beginning in September 2025, at the Tramore Community Centre. These sessions will introduce young participants to hand-building techniques and creative methods of clay decoration. Emphasis will be placed on encouraging individual expression and imaginative exploration, with each student supported in developing their own unique creations. Once completed, all pieces will be glazed and kiln-fired, bringing their artistic visions to life. All materials, tuition and firing costs are included in the programme. The term will conclude with a celebratory exhibition, where participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work to family and friends. We look forward to seeing the wonderful creations the children will bring to life. To reserve a place please visit: https://tramorepottery.ie/#kids
SVP Vincent’s Furniture Shop in Tramore is now welcoming donations of gently used, good-quality furniture as part of its ongoing mission to support individuals and families in need within the community. Members of the public are encouraged to declutter their homes while supporting a worthy cause. Donations will go directly to help fund the vital work carried out by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Those interested in donating are asked to contact the shop directly to arrange a collection. Donations can be coordinated by calling 085 8706332 during operating hours, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm. “We are so grateful for the continued kindness and generosity of our community,” said a representative from the shop. “Your donations help make a real difference in people’s lives.” For further information or to schedule a collection, don't hesitate to get in touch with the number above.
Bestselling author Sheila O’Flanagan, recently visited Tramore Library for the sixth Writers at Waterford Libraries event of 2025. In conversation with City and County Librarian Mary Conway, Sheila discussed her writing journey and her latest novel, 'The Honeymoon Affair'. Author of over 30 contemporary novels and short stories, Sheila’s debut 'Dreaming of a Stranger' became a bestseller in 1997. Her work also includes a historical novel inspired by her grandmother, two children’s fantasy novels and contributions to various anthologies and short fiction series.
Every child starting school in 2025 can get a free Little Library Book Bag. Each bag includes: Two books (starting school and friendship/self-confidence); A library card with a special holder and helpful resources for families, including the Rufus Handwashing Storybook. Available now at your local library.
Pat Cullen has formally announced his retirement from the position of Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Micheál MacCraith Tramore GAA Club. Pat said: "I wish to inform you that I have retired, with immediate effect, from my role as PRO of our Micheál MacCraith Tramore GAA Club. It has been a position I greatly enjoyed over the years, and I am sincerely grateful to my fellow club members for entrusting me with this important responsibility. I would like to thank everyone for their support, kindness, and assistance throughout my time in the role — it was always deeply appreciated. I extend my very best wishes to all four divisions of our great club for continued success into the future."
The local GAA Club extends its appreciation to Pat for his dedicated service and contributions over the year.
The Annual Gerry Rush Coffee Morning in aid of Waterford Hospice took place on August Bank Holiday Sunday, at the Guillamene in Tramore, in warm sunshine. The event featured a performance by the Male Voice Choir and brought together the local community in support of a very worthy cause. Guests enjoyed coffee, conversation, and music, all while raising funds for the vital services provided by the Waterford Hospice.
