New Inn Group takes walkers back in time to live like St Declan
Participants were “blessed” with beautiful sunshine for the entire afternoon
As part of National Heritage Week, the New Inn Festival Group organised a six kilometre guided walk along a section of St Declan’s Way on Sunday, 23 August 23 starting from the community centre.
One spokesperons said that participants were “blessed” with beautiful sunshine for the entire afternoon as they stepped back in time and explored what everyday life may have been like in 5th century Ireland.
“Along the route, walkers learned about the important trees, plants, foods and animals that would have been part of daily life during the time of St Declan. The experience was enhanced by live re-enactments demonstrating traditional farming techniques. Adding to the atmosphere, walkers were treated to a fantastic rendition of the traditional song The Old Thrashing Mill midway through the route, a wonderful moment that brought everyone together and added to the sense of stepping back in time.
The event was supported through Tipperary County Council grant funding, and special thanks are extended to Claire Ryan for kindly welcoming the walkers through her land. Many said how enjoyable and informative the experience had been. Following the walk, everyone gathered in New Inn Community Centre for a well-earned cup of tea and a chat. The New Inn Festival Group would like to sincerely thank all the volunteers who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm before, during and after the event.
The New Inn Festival Group is made up of local community members who are involved with different clubs and organisations throughout the village. Members come together voluntarily several times throughout the year to organise events, the main four of which are the Mary Doyle Run, the Field Day or Gardeners’ World-style event, the St Declan’s Way Walk, and the annual Spookfest, which is returning this year with a bang! The group is always happy to welcome new members. There is no requirement to commit to every event, and people can get involved in whichever event suits them or wherever their interests lie.