Shine a light on Christmas
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The Black Mills was host to over 40 stalls with something for everyone.Image 2 of 5
Some of the stall items on display at the Taste of Roscrea.Image 3 of 5
There was wonderful carol singing by St Cronan’s NS, Rosemount, who are seen here with Clodagh Lawlor (teacher) and Santa Claus and his elves. PHOTOs: PJ WrightImage 4 of 5
Children enjoyed a fun ride on the train as they made their way to see Santa. Photos: PJ WrightImage 5 of 5
Elowen and Marissa Hayes after their visit with Santa Claus.The Taste of Christmas, now in its 12th year, once again gave a nice boost to business in the town of Roscrea.
Approaching the Round Tower, the visitors were treated with the sound of music as all the choirs from the local schools sang out in their turns. Festive coloured lighting hung over the scene as the hive of activities for the two-day event took hold.
The Black Mills, in all its splendour, was host to over 40 stalls with something for everyone. From woolen mills products, to honey galore, a cure for arthritis, timber products, flowers, candles, crafts and Christmas gifts, and many other culinary delights.
Roscrea GAA launched their annual yearbook of the ‘Year in the Red’ at the event and Autism Awareness was supported generously by the visitors. Children enjoyed a fun ride on the train as they made their way to see Santa. Over 500 children from a wide hinterland visited with Santa Claus, and the legendary bearded fella was in brilliant form. The photographs will be in many a home this Christmas.
As well at supporting the Taste of Christmas, the turnout was good for local commerce and many other nearby businesses.
Cllr Michael Smith, Chairman of the organising committee and founder of the event, thanked all who helped to make this year's Taste another success. He paid particular thanks to the Office of Public Works for their customary co-operation and goodwill. Tipperary County Council once again came up trumps and this financial support made it possible to be generous towards many families with young children.
“We are always looking for new ideas,” Cllr Smith said, “to promote events of this nature and to make them more attractive. We want to see the smiling faces and happy children. Given the enormous amount of tragedy and sadness we have witnessed in recent months with war and conflict, it is important to always remember to be hopeful, and to remember the true spirit of Christmas.
“Our aim is to be in a positive community-led organisation, always ready to embrace new ways of doing things and bringing the best in our people. Everything we try to do is aimed at improving our society and ensuring the talents and business acumen of the local people in these challenging times get an opportunity to showcase their talents,” concluded Cllr Smith.