IT was another great year for the Pig ‘n’ Porter festival in Limerick last weekend as Ireland’s biggest Tag Rugby event took place at the Old Crescent RFC.
The hugely popular sporting festival were celebrating their 15th anniversary at the rugby grounds in Rosbrien and as usual there was a huge turnout for the occasion with Tag teams from all over the world descending on Limerick.
The venue at Old Crescent RFC in Rosbrien wasn’t the only place in Limerick welcoming visitors to the city with locals bars, restaurants and hotels all doing their bit to welcome and entertain the enthusiastic taggers over the weekend.
After a spectacular display of Tag rugby it was time for the prize giving ceremony and after that it was time for all the teams to kick back and relax with a huge array of entertainment laid on for all the teams and their many supporters.
As you can see from our photographs a brilliant time was had by everyone who attended this year’s festivities with lots of fun in the marquee until late with music from the band Whitewater and of course the now legendary Fr Ted Disco!
Other highlights included the Bord na Mona Fuels FREE BBQ and  plenty of goodies and giveaways courtesty of Bulmers Irish Cider and Spin South West.
Old Crescent RFC were also eager to continue their association with the festival’s charity which sees funds raised for the nearby St. Gabriel’s School and Centre.

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THE ‘A Day in May’ photographic exhibition was officially launched at The Belltable last Monday evening. The event was organised by Yes Equality Limerick and supported by GOSSH and Limerick Pride as the exhibition coincides with this year’s festival.
The exhibition perfectly illustrates ‘A Day in May’ (May 23, 2015 to be exact) when the people of Ireland made history by becoming the first country in the world to pass same sex marriage by popular vote.
The emotional scenes from across Ireland and Dublin Castle, as the historic vote was declared made headlines across the world and changed peoples lives in Ireland forever.
According to RTE broadcaster Charlie Bird who travelled the length and breadth of Ireland to record the moving stories of some of the people impacted by the Marriage Equality referendum, the vote was about changing the ‘Real Lives’ of the largest minority of the people in Ireland: the LGBT community.
Charlie helped compile 52 stories and personal photographs which are combined in the ‘A Day in May’ book published by Merrion Press.
‘A Day in May’ photograph exhibition meanwhile gives everyone the opportunity to see the stunning selection of portraits by leading Irish photographers like Karl Hayden, John Minihan (famous for his portraits of Samuel Beckett) Tristan Hutchinson, Peter MacMenamin, John Colgan (of Riverdance fame) and Kate Nolan.
Included in the portraits were Limerick locals Sharon Slater, Jenny Hannon who spoke at the launch and Caroline Steward, who all shared their stories in the book. Dave Cuddihy, Campaign co-ordinator with YES Equality in Limerick introduced Charlie Bird who spoke about his many experiences writing the book which is a moving record of the day and the photographs compliment the stories in the book beautifully, amplifying the life affirming impact of that day in May 2015 when Ireland said YES to equality.
All proceeds from the sale of the book are going to suicide awareness and prevention and the exhibition at the Belltable is open until July 15.

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OUTDOOR screenings of movies at the Milk Market have proved very popular with everything from ‘Dirty Dancing’, ‘Grease’ and ‘Footloose’ shown there in the past. Last Saturday evening there was another treat in store for movie fans with the Fresh Film Festival fundraising screening of ‘Mamma Mia’.
This film version of the much loved musical, starring Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Amanda Seyfried, was a hit with Abba fans all over the world and was a great choice for last week outdoors.
The Fresh Film Festival was originally a schools’ video competition for secondary students but is now an organisation in its own right shining a spotlight on national and international filmmakers throughout the primary and secondary age groups.
This event was part of the Movies at the Market season and as usual there was a selection of market stalls dotted around the venue open on the night with lots of light refreshments on offer for movie goers.
Many people attending brought blankets and cushions to ensure maximum comfort as they were transported to the beautiful Greek island where the film was set as they sang along to all the classic Abba tracks like ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Super Trouper’, ‘Gimme Gimme’ and of course, ‘Mamma Mia’ sung by Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried and the rest of the cast.
As you can see from our photographs a superb night was had by the film fans who attended and for those of you wondering what the next film featuring at the ‘Movies at the Market’ season will be, it’s Thelma and Louise which will be screened this Saturday July 23.

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FOLLOWING another brilliant Pride festival in Limerick, organisers and supporters were able to unwind after all their hard work and partying at the after show party Climax.
As usual the party was hosted at the official Limerick Pride Festival nightclub venue Dolan’s with the festivities taking place throughout the three rooms at this award winning venue.
There were lots of highlights from this year’s festival to celebrate at Climax with the annual LGBTI parade, PrideFest at The Hunt Museum, Pride Wedding fair and Pride Youth Party – just some of the many events people were talking about at the party.
The Climax party just wouldn’t be the same without the brilliant duo that is Madonna Lucia and Sheila Fitzpatrick who took to the stage with other talents acts such as the Dublin queens of ‘Dragged Up’ including Gala award entertainer of the year Victoria Secret, Paul Ryder, Regina George and Pixie who kept the crowds thoroughly entertained.
It was a full house on the night and other entertainment came courtesy of DJ Ruth who played on the main floor while the always popular ‘Saved by the 90s’ party took place upstairs. Madonna Lucia hosted her wildly popular ‘Confessions’ as the Pride Festival 2016 drew to a close after a triumphant week of community support.

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THERE was plenty of choice to be found on the music menu at Dolan’s over the bank holiday weekend with a variety of music genres to be found all at the one place.
When we paid a visit to the much loved music venue there was a large crowd enjoying music from popular Limerick cover band Mrs Henry. They were playing their usual brand of Americana and Blues, much to the delight of those at the venue.
The bank holiday weekend also attracted plenty of visitors to the city looking for some traditional Irish music. They were in the right place at this Dock Road series of venues as there was a rousing trad session for them to enjoy with a great atmosphere in the bar.
Meanwhile at Dolan’s alternative music venue and pub, the Kasbah Social Club  next dor, Seoda was hosting a double header with both Cruiser & Casavettes EP launches taking place. It was a busy weekend all around, music wise.
This Friday August 5 then, music lovers can look forward to a gig from Dick Valentine, lead singer from Electric Six, with an acoustic performance from him that will take place Upstairs at Dolan’s.

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LAST Sunday afternoon there was a bank holiday treat for music fans as Limerick City Gallery of Art at the Carnegie Building in Pery Square hosted a special concert called Romanian Rhapsody.
The concert, which was free to the public, was a special collaboration between the Limerick City of Gallery of Art, the presitigious RTÉ Contempo Quartet and the Romanian Institute of Culture, Bucharest.
The concert was an enthusiastic celebration of Romanian traditional and classical music. Both the Limerick and Romanian communities embraced this unique opportunity to experience classic music from eastern Europe in a beautiful setting in Limerick.
Performances on the day included Bela Bartok’s Romanian Dances and traditional music from Transylvania as music fans of all ages and music interests gathered for a delightful afternoon classical music concert, the perfect way to spend a bank holiday in Limerick.

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THE Locke Bar on George’s Quay, a long time supporter of the Irish Kidney Association, hosted a special Summer get together and fundraiser for the Limerick branch of the charity at the weekend.
Supporting patients is the main aim of the Irish charity which has 25 branches all over Ireland. Patients, family and friends of the Limerick branch were there to show their support last Sunday August 7 evening.
The association provides a free, comprehensive and confidential counselling service for those diagnosed with kidney disease, their family members and carers and they distribute organ donor cards throughout Ireland.
The Locke’s riverside location proved a great choice to host the seasonal get together with members enjoying a delicious BBQ with all the traditional tasty food and drinks on offer plus a lively traditional music session which was taking place in the bar.
As you can see from our photographs, a great night was had by everyone who supported the event with a raffle taking place and organ donation cards distributed.
The charity is always striving to raise awareness and much needed funds both locally and nationally, with the association relying on the public for up to 74 per cent of funding.
If you’d like to become a member and get involved with fundraising and awareness drives, email ikalimerick@gmail.com or check out their facebook page for more information.

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FRIENDS and supporters of Clare’s Wish Foundation gathered last weekend for a special fundraiser at McGettigan’s Bar.
Clare’s Wish Foundation is a national charity based here in Limerick with patrons including singer Red Hurley and Chloe Magee.
The charity was founded in memory of Clare Clancy who tragically died at the age of just 24 from Spina Bifida.
The charity hosts a range of social and sporting events in order to raise funds. They then use these funds to grant the wishes of adults (18 years and over) who have a terminal medical conditions. Clare’s Wish is the only charity of its kind in Ireland.
Well known magician Leon Anderson took on the role of MC for the night, hosting the charity table quiz with a range of general knowledge questions testing guests’ brain power. There was also music, with those attending the fundraiser enjoying a fun night out while supporting a worthy cause.
Another fun event on the calendar for Clare’s Wish Foundation is the ‘Cookery Demonstration’ at the Radisson Blu Limerick on October 6. This looks set to be a fun evening for foodies with celebrity chef Neven Maguire taking fans through a selection of his loved signature dishes.
There will also be wine tasting and artisan food stands to enjoy, with funds going to Clare’s Wish Foundation. Tickets are €20 and you can check out their facebook page for more details…

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Richard Kennedy, Vice President of the IFA and Chairman of the Limerick Show, David Sheehan, Vice President of the ISA, Cllr Noel Gleeson, Deputy Mayor of Limerick City and County, Jimmy McCarthy, President of the Cappamore Show, Pat Corbet, Chairman of the Irish Shows Association and Paddy Ryan, Secretary of the Cappamore Show

CAPPAMORE is gearing up for what promises to be it’s best family day out yet with the annual show on August 20.

It might be all about the showing and the jumping but on the day there will be  huge variety of free children’s entertainment including a magic show,  balloon modelling, face painting and pet’s corner. New this year is the climbing wall which is not for the fainthearted.

There are more than 100 classes in the cattle showing section with nine different breeds and commercials over five rings. Star attractions include the all Ireland Limousin breeding heifer final, the bonny baby calf of the year, the bBelgium blue junior and senior bull final and the GVM all Ireland Beef Championship with a €2,500 Prize fund

There’s plenty of scope for horse and pony fans with fifty showing classes  and pony classes catering for I.P.S. members and non-members.

And the carriage drivers will be showing off their skills as well.

There are fifteen competitions catering for registered and unregistered animals and not forgetting man – and woman’s best friend – there will be a pet dog show

There’s also plenty of fun for growers with the agri produce fruit, veg and flower show. 

There are more than fifty classes available covering cakes, jams and breads and new this yea is the Easterlicious Cook of the Year competition as well as a Limerick lace class. 

If al that isn’t enough there will be cookery classes for children and demonstrations for the more experienced as well as needle work and craftsmanship., Lego modeling class, art and art and photography and no show would be complete without the bonny baby and best dressed lady sections. 

Further details from www.cappamoreshow.ie?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

Aidan O’Brien, Newport, Michael Butler, Cappamore Show, Tim O’Brien, Kerry Agribusiness, Martin Murphy, Irish Hereford Breed Society and Irish Hereford Prime and Shane O’Brien, Newport

Back row from left; Carmel Hayes, Una McNamara, Breda Deere, Marie Hayes, Chairman of the Cappamore Show, Ann Marie O’Donnell, Bridget Ryan, Grace Gleeson and Maura Walsh. Front Row from left; Lucy Walsh, Nuala Walsh, Margaret Gleeson and Helen Ryan

Sean Coffey and Brian Ryan, Mulcair Vets, Anna Nolan, Shane Gleeson, Coillte and Liam Duggan, LCFE, Cappamore

Professor, Gerry Boyle, Director of Teagasc, Paudie Ryan, Cappamore Show, Timmy Butler, Pets Corner, and Deirdre and John Wheeler, Pallasgreen who presented a new cup for the Horticulture Sectionr

Garda, Billy Collins, Cappamore, Sean Coffey, Mulcair Vets, Lucy Walsh, Cappamore Show, Mairead Kennedy and Catherine Quish, AIB Tipperary and Jack Walsh,

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AFTER the success of The Coronas’ sell out gig at King John’s Castle, it was not surprising to see Dolan’s team up with Shannon Heritage again to bring another brilliant act to the legendary Limerick castle.
This time around it was Imelda May who took the venue by storm as her army of loyal fans descended on King John’s for one night only. There were plenty of quiffs and rockabilly style on display from the fans although the lady herself was rocking a cool new look herself with a Chrissie Hynde-style cut complimenting the gorgeous Irish singer as she took to the stage.
Imelda is no stranger to Limerick or Dolan’s, wowing fans at the Warehouse and the Big Top in the past but this time it was the ancient castle walls that hosted the singer as the crowds lapped up the live performance.
There was a real festival atmosphere and economic boost evident throughout the city on the day of the concert with pubs, hotels and restaurants hosting plenty of pre and after show events as fans gathered in Limerick for the occasion.
Those lucky enough to see Imelda in action were treated to a mix of new material and all the old classics. As you can see from our photos this went down a treat with the fans.
Here’s hoping the gigs at the castle continue for a long time to come and I for one can’t wait to see who will grace the stage there next!

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I AM delighted to reveal that last year’s hugely successful Afternoon Tea and Fashion fundraiser in aid of The Children’s Ark, Neo Natal Unit and CARI is back! Last year’s inaugural event was an outstanding success with a full house of stylish ladies raising money for the children’s charities as part of Limerick’s Live 95fm’s brilliant 95 Stop Tour for Limerick Kids.
Organisers revealed details for this year’s event at a special evening launch at Limerick Strand Hotel over drinks and delicious canapés from award winning head chef Tom Flavin. This was just a flavour of what we can expect from this year’s Afternoon Tea which will once again boast a wide array of delicious treats and delights that you can expect from the hotel’s hugely popular Afternoon Tea service.
This year’s fundraiser will take place at Limerick Strand Hotel on Sunday September 18 at 3pm and will once again feature the Holman Lee Agency who will showcase the latest Autumn/ Winter collections from Brown Thomas, perfect inspiration for the seasons ahead.
I’m delighted to be on board again as MC for the event which was such fun last year, with lots of generous raffle prizes and spot prizes up for grabs.
The afternoon will begin with guests enjoying a Prosecco reception accompanied by Dolmen String Quartet. The level of style was so impressive last time around that organisers have also added a ‘Best Dressed Lady’ prize which will add to the many giveaways.
Tickets for the event are already going fast at €30 so contact Siobhan or Noeleen 086-3491008 or 087-4171438 or email nmjmcl@hotmail.com to secure yours.

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LAST Friday night renowned singer/ songwriter and record producer Albert Hammond returned to the University Concert Hall, much to the excitement of his Irish fans.
Following rave reviews from his sold out performance in October, it wasn’t surprising to see Hammond return to UCH with fans eager to experience  a concert with the man whose songs made Joe Dolan an international star.
What followed was over two hours of much loved music spanning five decades including Hammond’s instantly recognisable hits such as ‘It Never Rains In Southern California’, ‘The Air that I Breathe’, ‘When I Need You’ and Joe Dolan favourites ‘Make Me an Island’ and ‘Good Lookin’ Woman’.
The hit maker who grew up in Gibraltar has been writing hit songs for more than fifty years which made for a sensational night for the fans.
Friday’s concert was packed full of hit songs from every decade like ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us’ and ‘One Moment in Time’, leaving the audience in Limerick thrilled all over again.

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THE 2016 Limerick Press Ball was launched this week with the Children’s Ark at UHL, Neo-Natal Unit at Limerick maternity hospital and CARI announced to be the main beneficiaries.
Invited guests enjoyed light bites and a Heineken reception at the launch in the City View Suite at Limerick Strand Hotel which will host the blacktie fundraiser on Saturday October 1. The event, which has long been a highlight on the Mid West region’s social calendar, is a chance for members of the media industry and friends to catch up and socialise while raising much needed funds for the nominated charities.
Press Ball chairman Ron Kirwan said he was “delighted” to announce the event’s return this year.
He also pointed out that the night wasn’t exclusive to the media, with many friends and associates of the industry attending and enjoying the fundraiser over the years.
Mayor of Limerick Kieran O’Hanlon spoke about how the event has a long standing history with the region’s television, radio and print media and how this year’s ball is set to continue this much loved tradition.
Highlights of this year’s event will include both a Heineken sponsored reception and a special cocktail reception at 7.30pm, followed by a delicious four course meal by award winning chef Tom Flavin and his team. The night will boast its usual raffle with top prizes, service to the industry awards sponsored by Specsavers, and music this year will be courtesy of popular band The News.
Tickets are already selling fast so to secure yours email ronkirwan@gmail.com or telephone 086-2265696.

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