New GAA club venue for popular Laois pub's weekly bingo
Community run Mountmellick bingo night finds a new home
A Popular Laois community bingo that lost its pub venue has been rescued by a local GAA club.
Bingo had been held in The Clock Inn in Mountmellick every Wednesday night for several years, organised on a non profit basis by local woman Nuala Kelly and her team of helpers.
The profits of the fun bingo night all went back out in prizes each week, along with donations to local charities.
Last January 22 Ms Kelly had announced "with a heavy heart" that it was ending, with the reported closure of the pub. On behalif of her team she had thanked everyone for their support.
"I will be doing my utmost to try secure another venue," she had promised.
The announcement was met with many messages of disappointment and support.
"Sad to hear this Nuala knowing you you'll get some where sorted you ve helped out so many charities with your bingo, know so many look forward to it," one said.
After a short stint in The Hare's Corner, her bingo nights have now found a new home, The Rock GAA club.
Club chair Anthony Ging confirmed details to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.
"It's a great opportunity for us to host it. We have the facilities, the carpark is big enough for buses, we have wheelchair access, it's ideal," he said.
He said that all outside of the costs of heating and running their hall, all the proceeds will again go into the jackpot, so the more players, the bigger the prizes.
Unlike The Clock Inn however, it will be alcohol free, but teas and coffees will be served.
"We are looking forward to it next week. It's absolutely brilliant. All are welcome to come, from the local community and from further afield," he said.
The weekly Rock GAA bingo will kick off at 8pm on Wednesday night, February 26.