Laois parishes launch fundraiser for new carpark and more 'exciting projects'

The Mountmellick and Coolbanagher Union of Parishes celebrated a successful launch over the weekend for their fundraising night which will be held at Newbridge Greyhound Stadium in June.

The group have organised a major fundraiser which will be held at Newbridge Greyhound Stadium on Friday, June 19 in aid of the parishes.

The organising committee was joined by race sponsors and representatives of Greyhound Racing Ireland and the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust at the fundraiser’s launch at Emo Court on Saturday, April 18.

The committee have planned the fundraiser to help with the ongoing costs of maintenance at St Paul’s Church in Mountmellick and St John the Evangelist’s Church in Coolbanagher as well as some “exciting projects” in the pipeline for both sites.

The group has drawn up plans to restore the old school building located beside the church in Coolbanagher. The old school house was completed in 1810 and closed in 1966 due to falling attendances. It was used as a parish hall until it was forced to close a few years ago because of its condition.

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The committee hopes to restore the building, beginning with the hall, kitchen, and toilets. Once it is completed, it will be available to the parish and wider community for events and meetings.

In Mountmellick, the group aims to create a safe car parking area at St Paul’s Church and provide accessible toilets.

In addition to the fundraiser, the group has applied for grant funding from Laois County Council to carry out the works.

Speaking at the launch, Reverend Lesley Robinson thanked everyone in the local community for their support so far: "We have been blown away by the generosity and support of local businesses, especially by our race sponsors, many of whom are present here today with us."

Looking forward to the big event in June, Reverend Robinson said: "We are really looking forward to a great evening’s entertainment for a worthy cause and hope as many people as possible will join us in Newbridge to experience the thrill of a night at the dogs."

Tickets for the night at the dogs are priced at €10 per person and children under 12 go free. Physical tickets are available from parishioners of Mountmellick and Coolbanagher. Tickets can also be purchased online here.