Longford school raises funds with novel initiative

The Parents Association of St Mel’s National School, Ardagh were delighted to host a Spinathon last Saturday, June 17 at Bill Keenan Park, Ardagh.

They were absolutely blown away by the turn out and the generosity shown by all involved.

It is safe to say the Spinathon was a roaring success with over €1,600 raised. All the money raised goes directly back to each and every child in the school through the Halloween parties, Santa treats, First Holy Communion and Confirmation pins, Communion party, end of year ice cream van visit etc.

The committee extends a huge thank you to Tess Gillen of Longford Fitness, not only for hosting the Spinathon but the work involved in the background over the last few weeks to get everything in place. They would also like to thank everyone who participated on the day and made the event the success it was.

Huge thanks to the main sponsors of the raffle, including Longford Fitness, Niamh Parkes of Straffan Design and Forever Living, Jenny White of Flowersandgifts.ie, Lyons Shop & Pub and Kearney’s Pub. Congratulations to the winners, Jimmy Jests and Eoin Tynan.

MC for the day was Mick Nash, he provided great entertainment, music and introduced the special guests. The committee were amazed with the various buns, cakes etc donated by local bakers and they went down a treat.

The special guests on the day included Adam and Cathal Kelly “2BigLugs, Thomas Hynes from Operation Transformation, Councillors Paul Ross and Colm Murray, Sadie Donnelly from Sadie’s Gifting, Carmel Farrell from St Brigid’s Gaels LGFA, Frank Doyle Chairman of Ardagh/Moydow GAA, Fintan Eager for St Patrick’s Og Minor Club Ardagh, Fr Vinny Connaughton, Jimmy Jests and Rose of Longford Grace Kemple.

These guests gave up their time to support the event and were really good sports in the spin class.

Finally, the committee would like to thank Ardagh Moydow GAA for letting them use their clubhouse.

Here’s hoping this will be an annual community event for all to enjoy.