PICTURES: 'A special, special gift': Limerick community's yearbook hits shelves

SNAPSHOTS from a year of life in Askeaton and Ballysteen, pictures of dogs with their owners, and the tale of Paddy Eyepole - The Worst Teaboy Ever.

Just three features of the new edition of ABC News, which is on shop shelves in Askeaton, Ballysteen and its surrounds.

Another year in the community is covered, with the activities of the Civic Trust, the local GAA club, and a tribute to Maria Sheahan, Askeaton’s librarian on her retirement among other highlights.

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The book was launched in Askeaton’s Community Hall by Mayor of Limerick John Moran.

“You can see a community who will spend their Christmas reading this. There are a few other places across the country who bring out these books, and they are such a wonderful gift for Christmas. I know my mum, who is 82 years old, when we buy her a book like this from places she has lived or dear to her heart, it’s a special, special gift,” he said.

The book retails at €12, but costs €14 to produce, and it’s thanks to local advertisers that it’s not sold at a loss.

That’s something noted by Liam Dillon, a member of the committee responsible for ABC News, which marks its 50th edition next year.

“Thank you to those who have kept it going. Thanks to the contributors. I am delighted to see the mayor here today, and hopefully in a years’ time, you might come and launch our 50th edition,” he told the audience.

Mayor Moran described the illustrations in the book as “amazing” and he also highlighted the stories on pillboxes - both in Askeaton and along the Shannon Estuary.

Ihor Husarov, who came to Askeaton from Ukraine following the outbreak of war, contributed an article which celebrated the similarities between Ireland and his homeland.

He also captured pictures in the peaceful town on what was his 1,352nd day living here.

He paid tribute to his hosts Trevor Fitzgerald and Breda O’Connor for their “kindness and decency”.

Ihor also recalled a recent incident when their children, Evie and Conor knocked on his door to give him some cookies, and wish them a Merry Christmas.

“When I asked if it was a special day, they simply said: ‘No, we are just neighbours’. That is what it means to feel at home,” he concluded.