Scéal’s fifth anniversary celebrations
Scéal Community Shop in Lorrha is celebrating its fifth anniversary on May 18th. Situated in the community hall in Lorrha, this volunteer-led project is going from strength to strength. The idea for a community shop was born from the wider Scéal group, which was formed to combat some of the challenges faced by rural communities. Regeneration of rural Ireland is very topical at the moment and Lorrha has been trying to do this for their own community for the last five years.
One of the main issues Scéal hoped to improve was the isolation faced by many members of the community. BOne of the main issues Scéal hoped to improve was the isolation faced by many members of the community to come together and meet within their own community. Over the past year, this has proved to be more important than ever. The hard-working volunteers managed to keep the shop open during the Covid-19 pandemic, even delivering groceries when required. This was greatly appreciated by the community during these difficult times.
Scéal Community Shop is also passionate about helping the community economically. Many local crafters, food producers and other small businesses sell their produce through the shop. This offers a great opportunity for people to promote their business while also providing customers with locally sourced products.
After five successful years, the Scéal group is hoping to expand. An extension on the side of the hall will provide a space for the shop, tearoom and heritage centre, while freeing up the existing hall for other events and for facilities for remote working such as hot desks. Some funding has been secured and the group is currently hoping to finalise further funding to allow the extension to begin, having proved that this amenity is much needed in the community.
Scéal would like to take this opportunity to thank all its volunteers and customers over the past five years. When conditions allow, the community group looks forward to welcoming visitors back to the area to discover the rich heritage the area has to offer.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, local historian James Heenan is providing a free tour of Lorrha Monastic Village on Saturday, May 15th. Suitable for all the family, call 087 2031798 to book your place.
Also, this Saturday, the Lakeshore Community Market will be taking place in Lorrha from 10am to 12 noon. There will a wide selection of produce available including home baking, fresh fish, flower and vegetable plants, honey, fresh flowers, eggs and local crafts.
The entries from the children's art competition will be on display. For more information see www.visitlorrhadorrha.com or follow visitlorrhadorrha on social media.