Golden Years Tea Party pays homage to the seniors
By Mary Dennehy
A SHOW of appreciation and respect for the senior citizens who helped to grow the Four Districts into the area it now is was held in the Rathcoole Community Centre on Friday, August 16.
Now in its fourth year, the Golden Years Tea Party is organised by the Rathcoole Community Centre and local gardai, with the support of neighbouring businesses.
Garda Liam Sex, Sgt John Lochlan, Sgt O’Sullivan, Inspector Ciaran Quigley and Superintendent Brendan Connolly, with Tricia O’Halloran, Garda Frank Howe, and Christy McDonnell Photos by Paddy Barrett
On Friday, August 9, over 120 people from local nursing homes, Lisheen, Griffeen, TLC Citywest, Millbrook and Peamount, visited the centre.
Residents linked in with the Four Districts [Saggart, Rathcoole, Newcastle and Brittas] day centre also attended, and enjoyed plenty of tea, chat and music.
The Garda Band performed on the day alongside local group RAMS [Retired Active Mens Social] in Rhythm.
Speaking with The Echo, Trisha Kellett, Rathcoole Community Centre Manager, said: “The Golden Years Tea Party came about after numerous meetings were had in relation to how we could show appreciation and respect to our local senior citizens who made the Four Districts the fantastic area it is to be a part of.
“This is a social event for older residents in the area, to give them back something.
Paula Byrne, Ann Fagan, with Eileen Gavigan
“They were here when the community was starting up and growing, and it’s good to give something back after all of their years in the area.
“It was a brilliant day.
“Everyone really enjoyed it.”
Edna Hurley, Mary Kiely and Kay Marron
Ms Kellett told The Echo how Rathcoole Garda Frank Howe had originally approached her with the idea of organising a social event for the area’s older residents.
To thank Garda Howe for his support, the local officer’s 50th birthday was also celebrated during the tea party.
Thanks have also been extended to local businesses for donating food and refreshments.
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