Members of the Donegal Fire Service are continuing to battle a major gorse fire near Kerrykeel this evening.

The blaze broke out this morning in the Gortcally area at around 10:30am.

Four units of the Fire Service from Milford, Letterkenny, Falcarragh and Dungloe stations are in attendance.

A helicopter, contracted from Executive Helicopters and equipped with a Bambi-bucket capable of carrying and dropping significant amounts of water, is also on the scene.

No damage to structures or property has been reported at present. However, some limited damage has happened to the forestry in the area.

The Donegal Fire Service does not respond to local media queries. 

However, a spokesman told RTE more than 30 firefighters are dealing with the wildfire which is expected to continue until dark.

A helicopter with a specialist Bambi bucket assisting firemen with a gorse fire near Kerrykeel.

The post Battle against major Kerrykeel gorse fire ongoing  appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Main pic: A beautiful painting of Ardara which will go under the hammer at tomorrow night’s ‘Anonymous Art Auction.’

Ardara’s famous Anonymous Art Auction hopes to raise thousands of euro for local charities tomorrow night. 

Organised by Claire Molloy, it will feature at least 60 pieces of beautiful artwork by both known artists and local people.

The unique event is being held in Nancy’s Bar tomorrow night at 8.30 pm and will raise much needed funds for Ardara Community Childcare Ltd and The Ardara Men’s Shed.

You can view all the artwork to date on ‘Ardara Anonymous Art Auction 2025’ on Facebook and on Instagram Clrmolloy72024

“So far, I have 60 pieces of beautiful artwork, in different mediums and sizes both in portrait and landscape forms, by both known artists and local people,” Claire told Donegal Daily.

“I have some special pieces of work from our local Ukrainian residents and from far and wide around the country.”

The Auction will be anonymous, in other words, you don’t know whose art you are purchasing until you have bought it! 

You are buying the artwork for the appreciation of the artwork. So it could be an artist or a local’s name on the back of the piece. 

Bids will be taken for any piece of artwork seen on the Facebook page by contacting Clare Molloy on Messenger or WhatsApp anytime today.

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Donegal auto dealers and gym squads are gearing up to support Relay for Life with a special edition of the Donegal International Car Push!

The Donegal International Car Push is back on Wednesday, May 21st at 7pm.

The 2017 edition was a great success, but this time around they’ve enlisted the strong folk at local gyms and fitness centres to do the pushing this time!

Gyms and Donegal auto dealers gather for the launch of the 2025 Relay For Life Car Push which will take place in Letterkenny on the 21st of May. Photo Clive Wasson

The route will be as follows: starting point at Divers’ Hyundai onto the Neil T. Blaney Road, turning left at the Joe Bonner Road traffic lights, joining the Port Road again, turning left at the Station House Roundabout and then passing the Community Centre again back to the starting point at Divers’ for a second lap.

Plans are also in place to hire a rally or celebrity drivers to steer the cars around the course also!

Relay for Life is the biggest cancer fundraising initiative across the world. It sees communities across the globe coming together to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and stand shoulder to shoulder with those facing cancer. Relay For Life is a celebration of solidarity and helps to raise awareness of the services provided by the Irish Cancer Society locally and nationally.

Volunteering gyms gather for the launch of the 2025 Relay For Life Car Push which will take place in Letterkenny on the 21st of May. Photo Clive Wasson

To provide these services requires significant funding and as only approximately 5% of the Irish Cancer Society’s annual funding comes from Government Funds, it depends on events such as Relay For Life Donegal to help raise the monies needed.

Obviously not everyone will be able to be present on the day, but donations can be made online through the following link: https://www.relayforlife.ie/event/donegal/donate

Relay has something to offer everyone, so please do join us to find out more about this amazing event.

Additional contact details can be found on Relay For Life Donegal Facebook Page, at relayforlifedonegal@gmail.com or by contacting Seamus Devine (087 24 82 775), Charlie Quinn (087 772 86 08), or Sarah Marie McDevitt (087 982 89 74)

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Get ready! The Letterkenny Motor Show is back and better than ever  and run over the weekend of Saturday, 10th May and Sunday, May 11th, 2025 at ATU Letterkenny!

We’re revving up for a day packed with the latest automotive innovations, electric vehicles, and commercial vehicles, and plenty of fun for the whole family.

This year’s theme – “Your Road, Your Future” – is all about the journey ahead, whether you’re behind the wheel of a cutting-edge electric car, exploring the latest commercial vehicles, or just checking out what’s new in the world of motoring.

The Letterkenny Motor Show Dealers 2025 are Connolly Motor Group (Volkswagen), McGinley Motors (Mazda, Peugeot, and Volvo), Hegarty’s Ford Letterkenny (Ford and Ford Commercial Vehicles), iMotors Letterkenny (Nissan and Kia), Highland Motors (Renault, Dacia, and Citroën), Manor Motors (Opel), Kelly’s Toyota (Toyota), Lexus Letterkenny (Lexus), Barry Browne Cars (Suzuki), Maxus Donegal (Maxus), DMG Motors (Skoda, Seat, and Cupra), and Divers Hyundai (Hyundai).

Families are in for a treat with interactive entertainment, and don’t forget to take part in our Colouring Competition, where your designs will inspire the show’s official mascot!

First Citizen Finance, the official finance partner for the show, is proud to help make this year’s event
one to remember.

“We’re excited to be part of the Letterkenny Motor Show again this year,” said Daniel Carlin, local representative of First Citizen Finance.

“This event is all about celebrating innovation, local businesses, and the future of motoring – and we can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Mark your calendars and get ready for a day full of excitement, exploration, and opportunities to
shape your future on the road.

For all the latest updates, follow us on social media and visit www.letterkennymotorshow.ie

The post The Letterkenny Motor Show shifts gears to ATU Letterkenny appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A late Wexford goal denied Finn Harps all three points at Ferrycarrig Park this evening.

Wexford…2 Finn Harps…2

Kevin McHugh’s side were trailing one nil at the break after Mikie Walsh-Rowe goal in the 12th minute.

However, battled well in the second half and were on level terms thanks to a Dara McGuinness goal in the 49th minute.

Captain Tony McNamee stepped up and had the visitors on pole position when he netted in the 69th minute.

It looked as if they might hang on and help Kevin McHugh to his first victory as Harps but Wexford’s Calum Flynn had other ideas when he netted his side’s equaliser in the 85h minute.

The post Late Wexford goal denies Harps victory appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A unit of the Stranolar Fire Brigade managed to bring a blaze in a nearby forest under control tonight.

The fire broke out in a wood behind the Gort Scith picnic area, between Stranorlar and Killygordon.

Luckily, however, it was spotted by locals and brought under control before it could spread further.

It is the latest in a line of similar incidents around the county.

For most of today, members of the Donegal Fire Service battled a major gorse fire near Kerrykeel.

The post Fire Service brings Stranorlar forest fire under control just in time appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The Wild Alpaca Way at Malin Head has expanded its offering with an exciting new venture: Wild Alpaca Wool.

Since its launch in 2019, the family-run Wild Alpaca Way has captivated visitors by offering guided alpaca walks along breathtaking coastal trails in Ireland’s most northerly region.

What started as a dream of entrepreneurial farmer John McGonagle has quickly become a must-visit attraction, blending sustainable tourism with the rugged beauty of Inishowen. 

Now, John is taking another step forward in farm diversification by launching Wild Alpaca Wool. Every year, his alpacas produce beautiful, soft wool—but until now, it remained largely unused. Recognising the value of this natural resource, John and his dedicated team have worked tirelessly to transform it into something truly special for visitors to cherish.

From left Cllr Martin Mc Dermot Niall Mc Caughan Go Visit Inishowen, David Lenord Failte Ireland, Mary Daly Visit Donegal, John McGonagle Owner at Wild Alpaca Way. Image Lorcan Doherty Photography

Tony Doherty, Northwest Knitwear at the Wild Alpaca Wool launch this week at The Seaview Tavern, Malin Head. . Image Lorcan Doherty Photography

Wild Alpaca Wool aligns with John’s deep respect for the land and his animals. The wool, sourced directly from his well-cared-for alpacas, blended with Blue Faced Leicester wool, is a testament to the farm’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

With this new venture, visitors will not only leave with unforgettable memories but also a tangible piece of their experience—crafted from the very alpacas that accompanied them on their journey. 

From left, Francis Monaghan Part of the Wild Alpaca Wool Commite John Mc Gonagle Wild Alpaca Way, Heidi Doherty Marketing Consultant and Wild Alpaca Wool Board. Image Lorcan Doherty Photography

Heidi Doherty at the Wild Alpaca Wool launch this week at The Seaview Tavern, Malin Head. Image Lorcan Doherty Photography

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A Buncrana father-of-four, who took part in a violent brawl between feuding families at an Inishowen cemetery last Christmas, has narrowly avoided a prison sentence.

Delivery driver Thomas Mongan, of 9 Pairc na hAluine, Buncrana, admitted a Section 6 charge of engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour when he appeared before Buncrana District Court.

The 28-year-old defendant was sentenced to two months in prison, suspended for 24 months.

The court heard how Mr Mongan had been fighting another man and had to be pepper-sprayed and handcuffed when gardaí swooped on Burt graveyard to break up the fracas.

Garda Sergeant Emmet Brady gave a summary of the evidence against the accused, who has a series of previous convictions.

He said gardaí received information in relation to an arranged fight between members of the Travelling community at Burt graveyard on Sunday, December 22, 2024.

They patrolled the area at approximately 4pm that afternoon and witnessed a number of members of the Travelling community, who appeared to be in an altercation.

Sgt Brady told the court that two males were grappling each other on the ground, “roaring and shouting” at each other.

Gardai intervened and gave verbal warnings for them to desist, before pepper spray was deployed. At 4.10pm the defendant Mr Mongan was arrested. Handcuffs were used and he was later charged at Buncrana Garda Station for an alleged offence under Section 6 of the Public Order Act.

The court heard how Mr Mongan has a number of previous convictions, including for assault causing harm, assault, robbery, theft and a series of public order offences, as well as a road traffic matter.

Solicitor Frank Murphy said his client had a “very turbulent upbringing” and that many of his offences date back to when he was younger.

“He has turned a corner. He’s now a father of four young children. He’s a married man and works as a local delivery driver. In fact, I often see him doing deliveries around Buncrana myself.

“He seems to have since turned a corner from what his pattern in life was like.”

Mr Murphy told the judge that his client was drawn into a violent dispute at the graveyard that he didn’t wish to be a part of.

“On this occasion, there was a family feud and I think Mr Mongan was brought to this location. He’s a grown man and he can make his own decisions, but it was a situation that he did not want to find himself in.

“It was a family feud that spilled over into the car-park at Burt graveyard. He no longer converses with any of the parties that had been involved in that matter. He has distanced himself from all family members who were involved.”

Mr Murphy said Mr Mongan wants to forge his own path in life.

“The numerous previous [convictions] are from an extremely turbulent time in his life. He had no children back then and he was a lost teenager or 20-year-old.”

“He seems to have gotten sense now, so to speak. The year 2022 was his last engagement with gardaí apart from this slight blip on the radar.”

Mr Murphy said his client won’t trouble the courts again.

“He realises it’s a serious matter and he regrets getting involved. He realises that if he comes before the court again he could face a long period of time in custody.”

Judge Patricia Cronin noted the early guilty plea, however she deemed it to be a very serious offence.

“This court considers this to be a serious Section 6 in circumstances where the location is at a graveyard and it is on 22 December at 4pm. They are aggravating factors.”

“People go to the graveyard around certain times of the year to visit their loved ones’ graves, and Christmas is one of those times. And for people to behave like that in a graveyard is appalling.

“It is beyond inappropriate. There are other people affected by your actions. I have to also take into account your previous convictions, a number of which are under the Public Order Act,” she told Mr Mongan.

Judge Cronin said she believed the facts of the case crossed the threshold for a custodial sentence, because of the location of the fight and because of the time of year when it occurred.

“I’m going to sentence you to two months imprisonment – but I will suspend that sentence for 24 months.”

In imposing a suspended sentence, the judge said she took into account the plea of mitigation and that Mr Mongan had distanced himself from others involved in the fight.

However, she warned the Buncrana man that he’ll be going to jail if he offends again.

“This was described as a slight blip, but I don’t consider it a slight blip,” she said. “I want to make it very clear to you Mr Mongan: If you come back to this court having been convicted of any other offence within two years of today’s date, then the sentence I imposed today will be activated.

“So there is a real risk that if you reoffend, you will serve this sentence,” the judge said.

Mr Mongan agreed to enter into a Section 99 bond to keep the peace, which he signed before leaving the courtroom.

The post Buncrana man avoids jail after brawl between families at Inishowen cemetery appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Support is flooding in for a family navigating major challenges following the birth of their baby with severely complex needs.

Five-month-old Oscar Lynch is the baby boy of Clare Lawlor-Lynch and Joe Lynch, who live in Kinlough and work in Bundoran.

A little fighter from the start, Oscar had a prenatal diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) – a rare, life-threatening condition that has required major surgery, intensive care, and around-the-clock medical support since birth. Clare had fetal surgery in Belgium to give Oscar the best chance at survival, and he was born at just 34 weeks, undergoing hernia surgery a week later.

He’s also been diagnosed with Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and relies on a tracheostomy to breathe. In the coming months, he’ll face further surgeries, including cleft repair, as part of his long and difficult medical journey.

There has been a recent surge in support for a fundraiser to help Oscar’s parents as they cope with bills and financial pressures while being by Oscar’s side in hospital.

Baby Oscar is currently in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Crumlin Children’s Hospital and Clare and Joe are staying close by at the Ronald McDonald House.

Support has been coming in from across the country, as Clare and Joe have several links across Donegal, Leitrim and Dublin. Clare has lived in Kinlough since she was 13, while Joe is originally from Dublin. They resided in Bundoran for several years before relocating to Kinlough. Clare is employed by Water World Bundoran and Joe works for Irish Gap Year. They also have a four year old son, Arthur.

Fundraiser; Help Support Baby Oscar and His Brave Family

Oscar’s auntie, Megan Lawlor, says he’s a “little fighter”.

“Oscar has already been in the hospital for months, and it’s likely he’ll remain there for most of the year,” Megan wrote.

“Clare and Joe are staying close by at the Ronald McDonald House, which has been a true blessing—but life outside the hospital doesn’t pause. Bills, responsibilities, and financial pressures continue to build while their focus remains on Oscar’s recovery.

“This GoFundMe is to help ease the financial burden on Clare and Joe—covering bills, travel, and essential costs—so they can continue to be fully present with their little boy as he fights the biggest battle of his life.”

To view/support the GoFundMe page, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-baby-oscar-and-his-brave-family

The post Almost €20K raised for baby Oscar’s biggest battle appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Gardaí say that a man in his 30s was killed yesterday evening when the lawnmower he was driving collided with a car.

The incident took place on the N76 near Kilcash, County Tipperary shortly before 10pm last night.

According to Gardaí, the lawnmower was being driven on the road before colliding with another car at Kilcash Cross.

The driver of the lawnmower was killed at the scene. No one else was injured in the crash.

His body was removed to University Hospital Waterford where a post-mortem examination will take place.

Gardaí have appealed to any witnesses to come forward.

The post National: Tragedy as man (30s) killed while driving lawnmower on road appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A special Easter Treasure Hunt will raise money for the Stroke Unit at Letterkenny University Hospital next weekend.

The BakeRona Treasure Hunt will take place in Moville on Easter Saturday, the 19th of April, starting at the BakeRona Bakery at midday.

There will be clues left across the Moville Green for little ones to find, and plenty of family fun on the day while supporting an amazing cause.

“This fun and family-friendly event promises an exciting day out, with hidden clues, sweet treats, and prizes for the little ones — all while supporting an incredibly important cause,” Rona McDonald, the owner of BakeRona said.

“The Stroke Unit provides life-saving care to many people across Donegal, and we’re hoping to give back with the help of our amazing community,” she said.

The post BakeRona Easter Treasure Hunt in Moville to raise vital funds for LUH Stroke Unit appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The achievements of students at the Buncrana Further Education & Training (FET) Centre were celebrated at a special Awards Night earlier this week.

The event celebrated the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024.

The event highlighted the transformative nature of the courses being offered in the FET Centre in Buncrana and more widely throughout the county by the FET Service managed by the Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB).

Students and ETB staff from Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area course certificates Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024. Photo Clive Wasson

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 FET staff with students who received E-Business Certificates. Seated from left are Alison McGee, ETB, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Alan Murphy, ETB. Photo Clive Wasson

Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB speaking at the Further Education and Training (FET) in the Buncrana area course certificates Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024. Photo Clive Wasson

Bringing together students, families, educators, and invited guests to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and excellence of the students, attendees enjoyed a memorable evening, including speeches and the presentation of their awards, followed by light refreshments.

Certificates were presented across a range of courses offered in the centre including Early Learning and Care Stage 1 and 2, eBusiness, Health Service Skills, Manual and Computerised Bookkeeping, Special Needs Assisting, Caring for Children with Additional Needs and Irish Computer Society Driving License (ICDL).

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 FET staff with students who received ELC, Level 6 and SNA Level 5 certificates. Seated are Michelle Stevenson, ETB, Alison Stevenson ETB, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Cliona ????, Class Representative. Photo Clive Wasson

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 FET staff with students who received certificates in information processing and E-Business. Seated are Elaine Devlin, Alison McGee, ETB, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Alan Murphy ETB. Photo Clive Wasson

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 FET staff with students who received certificates in Health Service Skills. Seated are Anne Tinney, Tutor, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Photo Clive Wasson

Former students spoke of their own personal learning journeys, having been faced with life and career changes. They outlined how their time in the Centre was one where they were given the opportunity to flourish and develop new skills and confidence while being ably supported by the Centre’s teaching and support staff.

Charles Gorney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Officer speaking at the Further Education and Training (FET) in the Buncrana area course certificates Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024. Photo Clive Wasson

Donegal ETB Adult Education Officer Charles Gorney reflected on the evening, saying, “Our Awards Nights are always inspiring events. It was an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students and the tireless dedication of our staff. The event also showcases the wider societal impact Further Education and Training has on the communities in Donegal. We are incredibly proud of our students and the impact our Centre and staff have made and look forward to seeing our students both past and present continue to thrive.

“Credit needs to be given to these graduates for the dedication and commitment that they have given in completing the courses and undertaking this step in what will hopefully be a lifelong learning journey”, he added.

Cllr. Donal Coyle, Chairperson Donegal ETB Board speaking at the Further Education and Training (FET) in the Buncrana area course certificates Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024. Photo Clive Wasson

Certificates were presented by the Chairperson of Donegal ETB, Cllr Donal Coyle, who delivered an inspiring speech celebrating the resilience and determination of the graduates. Reflecting on their educational journeys, he highlighted the challenges many students faced in returning to education as adults and praised their ability to overcome obstacles, rewrite their stories, and unlock new opportunities for their futures.

Cllr Coyle also commended the dedication of the staff who guided and empowered the students: “The certificates you hold today are more than qualifications – they are symbols of resilience, transformation, and new beginnings”, he remarked.

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 FET staff with students who received certificates for Bookkeeping Manual and Computerised. Seated are Alison McGee, ETB, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Siobhan Coughlan, ETB. Photo Clive Wasson

Further Education and Training (FET) students in the Buncrana area received course certificates at an Awards Night on 8th April celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who finished NFQ Level 4 and 5 courses in May 2023 and 2024 . Pictured at the event are FET Staff, Michelle Stevenson, Charles Gourney, Donegal ETB Adult Education Office, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Donegal ETB Chairperson, Dainelle McGee, Donegal ETB and Alison Stevenson. Back from left are Alan Murphy, Siobhan Coughlan, Anne Tinney, Elaine Devlin, Alison McGee, Claire Curran, Sinead Doherty and Sean Lee. Photo Clive Wasson

Graduates were encouraged to carry forward the lessons of teamwork, self-belief, and perseverance as they embark on new paths in their careers and communities.

Further information on courses provided by the FET Centre in Buncrana can be found on Donegal ETB’s website course finder (www.donegaletb.ie/fetcoursefinder) or by calling or emailing the centre on 074 9362466 or fetcentrebuncrana@donegaletb.ie.

The post Buncrana Further Education & Training students celebrated at special Awards Night appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The popular Cafe Arnou in Dunfanaghy will not reopen this Summer, as its owners say their lives are entering a “new chapter”.

The Cafe had been a fixture in the town for a decade, feeding locals and tourists alike.

With a new arrival on the way for the Arnold/Kelly family that runs the Cafe, and the ever-popular Arnold’s Hotel in Dufanaghy to manage as well – it was time for a new beginning.

“A new chapter for the Cafe Arnou space,” the owners posted via social media yesterday.

“After much thought and with the impending arrival of a new addition to the Arnold/Kelly family, we have made the difficult decision not to reopen Cafe Arnou.”

“This space has brought us so much joy over the years, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the café — from our amazing team to each and every customer who popped in for coffee, cake, or a friendly chat. Your support meant the world to us.”

However, the former Cafe Arnou space won’t be going to waste.

“But with every ending comes a new beginning, and we’re delighted to share that the space will soon be home to something new and exciting — a hairdressing salon!”

“The fabulous Mary from MD Hairdressing will be opening her doors here in the coming weeks, and we know she’ll bring great style, talent, and a much-needed service to the town.”

“We hope you’ll join us in wishing Mary every success in her new venture, and thank you again for all the love you’ve shown Café Arnou over the years,” the owners posted.

“Here’s to exciting new beginnings!”

The post Popular Cafe Arnou in Dunfanaghy to close as owners enter “new chapter” appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal teenage horse-racing sensation Patrick McGettigan has again shown his potential after scoring a superb 80/1 winner in Dundalk last night.

His latest triumph comes just a week after McGettigan scored a 50/1 winner at the same racecourse.

The Letterkenny Jockey took 80/1 shot Albion Princess to the victory in the 8:30pm race last night, scoring a most unlikely of wins for trainer Donal Kinsella.

The victory marks McGettigan’s second win of the young Irish flat racing season.

The post Young Donegal Jockey Patrick McGettigan scores stunning 80/1 upset winner! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A father and son who beat up two bouncers at a charity boxing match in a Co Donegal hotel have avoided going to jail after donating €18,000 to their victims.

Sheep farmers Liam and William Ward pleaded guilty to assaulting security personnel Sean Douglas and Marcin Manczykowski at the Abbey Hotel in Donegal Town on October 29th, 2022.

The pair pleaded guilty when they appeared at Donegal Circuit Court before Judge John Aylmer.

Footage of the assaults captured on the hotel’s CCTV system was shown in the court.

The accused pair, from Orbeg in Donegal Town, sat in the dock while relatives sat at the rear of the court listening to details of the assault.

The court heard how son Liam Ward, 28, had bought the tickets for the charity boxing match but his father William, aged 59, was not keen on going for family reasons.

Garda Alan Gallagher said the incident started when the father and son began arguing amongst themselves but this led to the two men assaulting both security personnel.

Both suffered a range of injuries including fractures, severe bruising and scraping and suffered headaches long after the initial attacks.

As well as physical injuries, both men suffered severe psychological damage from the vicious assaults.

Mr Manczykowski eventually returned to work but Mr Douglas could not return to work as a bouncer and studied for a different career instead.

Victim impact statements were read out in court on behalf of both victims.

Mr Douglas told how he went to help his colleague Mr Manczykowski after he was set upon and was himself badly beaten and was kicked and punched repeatedly.

He listed a range of injuries he suffered including a fractured nose, bruising to his head and eyes and told how he tried to return to work after six months but had suffered from anxiety and could not work in the security industry.

He lost his confidence as a person and had to receive counselling and has now chosen to do a degree in a health field so he can help others.

Mr Manczykowski also outlined his injuries and how he suffered from bruising and developed a lump on the side of his head.

He said he has since recovered from the physical injuries he received but he still struggles with the psychological impact and that he is more nervous now than he was in his job than he was before.

Both William and Liam Ward were interviewed by Gardai about the assaults but both said they had little recollection of what had happened because they each had so much drink taken.

Barrister for William Ward, Mr Simon Gillespie, BL, said his client had no previous convictions and was not well-known to Gardai. He added that Ward is a sheep farmer and gravedigger who lived in the countryside and that this type of behaviour was completely out of character for him.

He said he had been drinking on the night in question, had very little recollection of the incident but had apologised to the bouncers.

On the night in question, Mr Gillespie said his client was reluctant to go to the event as his brother had been ill and had since passed away.

Mr Gillespie said his client had the sum of €9,000 in court as a gesture of goodwill to his victims.

Mr Ward took to the witness box and apologised to both men saying “I would like to say sorry to people involved that night, it was completely out of character for me.”

Barrister for Mr Liam Ward, Mr Peter Nolan, BL, said his client had also made full admissions, had apologised to both bouncers and accepted that this should never have happened.

Garda Gallagher agreed with Mr Nolan that both father and son were highly regarded in their area, were hard workers but both had consumed large amounts of alcohol including Liam who admitted to drinking eight pints and a number of vodkas.

The court was told Liam one had just one previous conviction and had taken an adult caution for a public order incident some years ago.

Mr Nolan said his client also had the sum of €9,000 in court to offer as a gesture to both men.

Liam Ward also apologised to his victims saying “I’d like to apologise to the two lads involved, that is not my normal behaviour.”

Passing sentence, Judge John Aylmer said the behaviour of both men at the charity boxing event on the night was “appalling.”

He said security staff at such premises had very difficult jobs but fortunately they don’t have to face such violence too often.

However, he added that it was only a question of luck how serious the injuries of the victims were given the levels of violence involved.

He said both men may have recovered from their physical injuries but the psychological injuries will remain with them and their confidence had been “shattered” as a result.

Judge Aylmer said it is clear that both men were not given to this type of behaviour and this was a complete aberration as they were out of their minds on alcohol and going through a tough family time.

He said a starting point for sentencing would be two years in prison before he took mitigation into consideration.

Both men had no previous convictions and were clearly hard-working men, said the Judge.

Both had cooperated fully and showed remorse and the probation services said both were at a low risk of reoffending.

He said because of these factors he would reduce the sentences to one of 15 months in prison for each accused.

However, he said he accepted the proposition that this case would be better dealt with by way of a non-custodial sentence and sentenced the men to 240 hours of community service in lieu of 15 months in prison and gave the father and son 12 months to complete the community service.

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Two groups of stand-out Gairmscoil Chú Uladh students claimed separate national awards this week.

The school and its commitment to the Irish language was proudly showcased on a national level on Thursday.

At the 2025 PEXPO (Physical Education Expo), Gairmscoil students Aibhe Nic A Bhaird and Dana Nic Giolla Comhaill won the Irish Language Award for their groundbreaking project titled “Female Sportswomen and Pregnancy.”

This project explored the impact of pregnancy on female athletes’ lives and careers, presented in an informative, thoughtful, and inspiring way – entirely through Irish.

Meanwhile, Oisín Ó Máirtín, Ethan Scota Mac Giolla Bhríde, and Katie Louise Nic Mhonagail participated in the Student Enterprise Programme (Clár na gComhlachtaí – Údarás na Gaeltachta/Junior Achievement Ireland) in Galway.

Not only did they demonstrate outstanding entrepreneurial skills, but they also won the Judges’ Award, standing out among many impressive entries from across the country. The students created a ‘Frame’ which will allow beekeepers to sell their honey directly to the customer, a product that is not currently on the market in the EU.

“These achievements are a clear reflection of the creativity, dedication, and excellent work being carried out by the students,” Gairmscoil Chú Uladh said.

“Sincere congratulations to the students, their teachers, and the whole school community for their support. GCU students are proudly representing Gaelscoil education, Physical Education and entrepreneurship at a national level!”

The post Amazing Gairmscoil Chú Uladh TY students claim two national awards! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The Irish Government could have avoided Donegal’s crumbling homes crisis if it had followed European Standards on pyrrhotite set out in a directive 23 years ago, a world-leading concrete expert told a local conference today.

Homeowners, campaigners, politicians, academics and international experts gathered at An Grianan Hotel in Burt for the 2025 Defective Concrete Conference.

The conference was organised and hosted by Ulster University and academics Dr Eileen Doherty and Professor Paul Dunlop whose recently published research debunked the theory that crumbling homes have been caused by the Mica mineral.

Dr Andeas Leaman, Senior Scientist Group Lead EMPA Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, showed the 200 attendees at the conference a dam and a bridge – high up in the Swiss Alps – built with Mica concrete to show that Mica was “never” the issue in defective concrete.

Dr Leaman told the conference that when Buncrana-based Professor Dunlop first contacted him in 2021 and told him about the “Mica Crisis” in Donegal, his initial response was: “That sounds fishy to me”.

He said his initial scepticism about Mica being responsible for thousands of crumbling homes was confirmed three months later when he studied samples taken from affected homes in Donegal.

“I concluded in December 2021 that this was not a Mica crisis at all but a pyrrhotite crisis,” said Dr Leaman.

The academic said Mica does not damage concrete. He said there is an abundance of Mica in Switzerland including in an Alpine bridge and the Verzasca Dam (Contra Dam) in Ticino, famous for the iconic bungee jump scene in the film James Bond movie ‘GoldenEye’

“Mica isn’t a problem,” said Dr Leaman.

“The issue is pyrrhotite and internal sulphate attack. The EU set a standard in 2002 with a limit of 0.1 per cent maximum of pyrrhotite but nobody in the Irish Government cared. If this standard had been followed the crisis could have been avoided.

“The most sophisticated testing available worldwide and identified pyrrhotite oxidation and internal sulphate attack (ISA) as the cause of the crisis.”

Professor Dunlop said that working with research partners in Switzerland, the USA and Canada, they had debunked the Mica freeze-thaw theory.

He also pointed out that the Government’s 2017 report which identified Mica as the cause of the crisis in Donegal was prevented by the terms of reference from carrying out actual tests on concrete.

The latest award-winning research by Dr Leaman, Professor Dunlop and others has been included in the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) current public consultation on the IS465 standard.

This was presented at the conference which showed varying levels of internal sulphate attack on different areas of a home, with the other leaf being the worst.

And whilst the internal walls were relatively unaffected, these sit on rising walls which are affected. Further study is needed on the possible consequences for foundations, the researchers said.

The conference also heard that specialist testing overseen by Pierre-Luc Fecteau, Research Associate, Laval University, Quebec, Canada, has been ongoing at the home of MAG campaigner Lisa Hone outside Letterkenny. The testing is similar to those carried out in Trois-Rivieres city in Quebec.

Early results once again prove that the Mica freeze-thaw theory is not responsible for the defective homes, said Mr Fecteau.

“There is no freeze-thaw Mica in Quebec so it certainly doesn’t make sense that it could happen here in Donegal where mean average temperatures are much higher,” he said.

Professor Dunlop expressed frustration that the IS465 review continues to include Mica as a possible cause of the crumbling homes, with Dr Leaman describing its inclusion as “just wrong”.

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A group of 50 members from the Irish-language community are to take on a special charity Swim for Palestine this weekend, including a stop in Donegal on their nationwide journey.

Activists from Conradh na Gaelige are planning to raise €50,000 through their swims for a good cause – the ACLAÍ Palestine project at the Lajee Center in the Palestinian West Bank.

They will visit all seventeen coastal counties on the island of Ireland, with their journey including a stop in Bundoran today on day one of their journey.

Members of local communities along their route are being asked to show support and solidarity across this weekend.

Speaking about the event, Aodhán Ó Deá, Director of Development with Conradh na Gaeilge said:

“Several motions were passed at the Conradh na Gaeilge Ard-Fheis this year and last in relation to Palestinian solidarity, such as calling for an immediate permanent ceasefire and implementing a BDS policy within the organisation. We wanted to pro-actively support the Palestinian community, and we have a natural connection with ACLAÍ Palestine and the Lajee Center: various people from the Irish-language community have spent time volunteering at the Center in recent years and in December 2024, a branch of Conradh na Gaeilge was registered at the Lajee Center – the first branch ever in Palestine.”

Róisín Ní Chinnéide, Advocacy Manager with Conradh na Gaeilge and former volunteer in the Lajee Center said:

“It’s more important than ever for us to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who are suffering under ongoing genocide, apartheid and colonisation. Words can’t describe the daily challenges faced by the community in the Aida Camp, and the Lajee Center serves as an anchor for their incredible resilience. Every cent raised from this fundraising campaign will go straight to a community centre that is run by and for refugees, to continue to provide essential services for their community. ”

The post 50 people to take on Swim for Palestine in Donegal & nationwide this weekend appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A well-liked cafe in Ballyshannon has announced that they’re closing, citing rising costs and Government policy as the reason for shutting up shop.

Tete-a-Tete has been a popular community spot in the seaside town since 2018, owned by French chef Guillaume Lamandais.

However, he announced the “difficult decision” to close the cafe at the end of this month.

“It is with a heavy heart Tete-a-tete has made the difficult decision to close its doors permanently effective April 26th 2025,” the cafe posted via social media.

“As you all know, the hospitality sector is in crisis and we have had to surrender our business to ever increasing prices and government decisions.”

“We would like to express our gratitude to the people of Ballyshannon, surrounding areas and internationally for all the support, friendship and joy over the last 7 years.”

Dozens of locals took to social media following the announcement.

“You will be sorely missed in the town,” one user wrote.

“Not only did you serve great food and coffee but you have the most wonderful staff. Always a smiling face and a friendly ear. Wishing you all the best of luck on your next adventure.”

The post Well-liked Ballyshannon cafe to shut due to rising costs appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Here are all of the results and reports from another week of Donegal Women’s League fixtures.

Donegal Women’s League 9 a side Match Reports 07/04/2025

Deele Harps 0-3 Fanad United
Deele welcomed Fanad Utd to Marty Duffy Park for the first ever ladies competitive football match in the club’s history, and what a glorious evening it was. The first half saw plenty of good football from both teams. Deele keeper Louise Coyle was on fire, denying all Fanad’s chances until Clodagh Herron managed a tap-in from a corner, 0-1 to Fanad at halftime. Second half Fanad started the brighter but with Nadine White & Caoimhe Mc Carron proving strong in defence, making it hard for Fanad, Deele had a few missed chances when Rebecca Connolly narrowly missed out from a free. It was Fanad who came back with another goal from Clodagh Herron, and in the final few minutes, Ciara Bell caught the Deele keeper and hit the back of the net. Great performances from both teams, well done to Fanad, who took away all 3 points. Thanks to referee Paddy McCauley for a great game.

Kildrum Tigers 1-3 Keadue Rovers
Kildrum welcomed Keadue Rovers to Station Road tonight. It was a very entertaining game with both teams battling hard, resulting in 0-0 at halftime. Both teams started strong in the second half. With 15 mins to go, Keadue took the lead, shortly followed by a second goal. Kildrum got a penalty, and up stepped the debutant Serena McCrossan to pull one back for Kildrum. With Kildrum pressing hard for an equaliser, Keadue caught Kildrum on the counterattack and, despite Kildrum’s keeper’s best efforts, the ball fell kindly for Keadue, who slotted home. Final score: Kildrum 1-3 Keadue. Kildrum put in a great team performance tonight.  Thanks also to everyone who came out tonight to support the ladies.

Letterkenny Rovers 0-2 Bonagee United
Letterkenny Rovers started off strong in the opening minutes with Erin Doherty and Molly Page doing very well in middle of the park also getting the ball into striker Roisin Lynch but Catherine Grier and Eva Harvey did a good job keeping it tight at the back. It was not long for Bonagee to find their feet with the Sweeney sisters Eimear and Siobhan linking up very well and creating some great chances for the Bonagee strikers Orla Malseed and Natalie McFadden. Natalie McFadden had a one on one with Rovers goalie Aoibhin Randles but the keeper did enough to force Natalie’s shot wide. Bonagee won a free kick on the 23rd minute which Catherine Grier had a long range shot only for Rovers Mia Devenny to clear but just as far as Eimear Sweeney who hit a first time shot from 20 yards which flew past all players and into the net. Bonagee was on top then again with Natalie McFadden going through one on one only for Rovers keeper to make a good save to keep it 1-0 going into halftime. Bonagee was in control of the game with few subs coming on Claire Doherty and Nimah
Walsh coming on for Catherine Grier and Orla Malseed making way for Hannah Hopkins who made some great runs, getting a shot on goal too. Natalie McFadden finally got her goal on 53min of the game where she found the cross of Hannah Hopkins and slotted home to seal the victory for Bonagee. Rovers goalkeeper Aoibhin had a great game with some great saves and kept it tight.

DWL U12 Match Reports 08/04/2025
Group 1
Letterbarrow Celtic vs Donegal Town (Letterbarrow win)
A beautiful evening up in Tymeen as Letterbarrow Celtic welcomed Donegal Town for the first U12 girls match of the season.  We had a great mix of ‘oldies’ with a number of young girls making their debuts tonight. The Letterbarrow girls started off very strong, getting stuck in from the off, and with touches of great play and luck going their way at times, they finished the first half leading 4-0. As expected, Donegal Town came out much stronger in the second half, but for some strong defending and great awareness from Samantha Dunlevey making her debut in goals, everything was cleared.
Despite the warm weather, the girls on both sides gave it their all for the whole match. Letterbarrow scored another three goals in the second half, completing Captain Eabha Conneely’s hat-trick and a debut goal for Harper McGinty, but only for some great saves from the Donegal Town keeper there could have been another few goals.  A big shout-out to all those making their debut tonight on both sides – Samantha in goals for Letterbarrow was great. Player of the night was Bella Leonard, who was a powerhouse. In fairness, it was a great team performance, so it could have gone to any of them. A massive thanks to Donegal Town for making it a great game, and we wish you well for the rest of the season. Also thanks to George Clinton for reffing the match, and a special thanks to those who came and supported the girls.  A great start to hopefully another great season for this gang of warriors at Letterbarrow. Goalscorers tonight:  Eabha Conneely Bella Leonard Elsa Callaghan Harper McGinty

Drumbar United 0-2 Cappry Rovers As
Our U12 girls welcomed Cappry Rovers to Drumbar for their league opener of the season. Cappry started brightly, showing real intent from the first whistle. Their early pressure paid off when the dominant Alison Mbuli broke through the Drumbar defence and opened the scoring. Despite the early setback, Drumbar quickly adapted to Cappry’s intensity and created a few promising attacks of their own. However, Cappry doubled their lead when Fia McNulty finished at the back post to make it 2-0.  From that point on, Drumbar settled and showed great defensive resilience, limiting Cappry’s chances for the rest of the game. Goalkeeper Lucy McGarrigle pulled off some fantastic saves to keep the visitors at bay.  Drumbar asked questions of Cappry’s defence throughout the night, but the visitors stood firm.  Massive credit to our U12s for a tireless performance against a top side every girl gave it everything. Well done, team!

Raphoe Town 2-2 St Catherines
Raphoe welcomed St Catherine’s to Drumineny to kick off the new season. It was the home side who had the majority of the possession in the opening 10 mins, but St Catherine’s had the first real chance of the game when Sophia Diver raced clear, but her effort was denied by a superb Ellen O’Kane save. That sparked the Raphoe Girls into life with new signings Clara Nutt and Bethany Goudie unlucky to see their efforts come back off the woodwork. Emily Donnelly and Evana Roulstone both went close as the game headed towards halftime but found Sadbh Daly in the St Catherine’s goal in superb form.  As the second half began, Raphoe finally got the breakthrough when Masie McGonagle finished well at the back post. St Catherine’s responded immediately with Aoife Hirrel, Ciara McCrory, and Aoife Galbraith all defending well, but eventually the Killbegs girls got the breakthrough with 2 quick goals, putting them ahead. Raphoe introduced Eva Hay and Farah Brolly as they sought an equaliser. Clodagh Gallagher was next to test Daly, but again the keeper stood firm. Clara Nutt was denied by some last-ditch defending, but finally Erin McCann popped up with the equaliser to the delight of the large home support. Thanks to Caolan McGarriagle for reffing, and all the best to St Catherine’s for the season ahead.

Group 2
Gweedore United 0-6 Dunfanaghy Youths
Gweedore United U12 A women’s team welcomed Dunfanaghy Youths F.C. to Gweedore on a glorious Monday evening. Dunfanaghy came away with the points after an outstanding display by Clara Ward-Duffy. Dunfanaghy got out of the traps early in the first half. Fiadh Mc Ginley opened the scoring for the Youths with a long-range effort in the 17th minute that sailed past the Gweedore goalkeeper, Muireann Doohan. Gweedore kept the pressure on Dunfanaghy but were unable to get that breakthrough. It wasn’t long afterwards till Dunfanaghy scored their second goal with an effort from Isabella Galbraith in the 21st minute when a through ball from Aisling Alcorn found Galbraith, who slotted the ball home past the Gweedore United keeper. The first half ended with Dunfanaghy Youth 0-2 up. Dunfanaghy Youths extended their lead in the 33rd minute to make it 3-0. Clara Ward-Duffy tapped the ball in from close range after a goalmouth scramble.  Gweedore United regrouped and should have gotten their opening goal when Annie Ivers was through for a one-on-one with the Dunfanaghy keeper, only for the ball to hit a divot that sent the shot sizzling over the Dunfanaghy crossbar. However, the Youths made it 4-0 in the 49th minute when Clara Ward-Duffy slipped past the Gweedore defence and slotted the ball low past the Gweedore goalkeeper, Muireann Doohan, netting her second goal of the match. Gweedore United battled hard but just could not hit the back of the net. Ward-Duffy, who was a threat all through the match, made it 5-0 in the 56th minute to net her hat trick. Dunfanaghy sealed a comprehensive victory for the away side in the 59th minute when player of the match Clara Ward-Duffy hit a free kick from just inside the halfway line past Doohan in the Gweedore United goal to make the final score 6-0 to the away side. Good team performances all around in an entertaining match. A comprehensive victory for the away side. Thanks to Semí Ferry for officiating.

Glenree 0-6 Keadue Rovers 

Gweedore Celtic 0-6 Kilmacrennan Celtic

Group 3
Convoy Arsenal 2-3 Illistrin As
Convoy Arsenal welcomed Illistrin FC to a sunny Orchard Park in the first match of the season. Both teams started well. Illistrin were the stronger team and led 3-0 at halftime. Convoy came back into the game in the second half, scoring 2 goals. Illistrin continued to fight and stay strong at the back. Final score: 2-3. Well done on the win to Illistrin FC, and thanks for making the journey to convoy. Thank you to ref Gavin Doherty.

Kildrum Tigers vs Finn Valley Predators (Kildrum win)
Our u12 girls played their first match of the season tonight at home and welcomed Finn Valley to Station Road. It was a great game of football played in great spirits by both teams. Well done to Aine Bovaird, Harper Lynch Mahon, Abaigh Bovaird and Hannah Lynch on scoring goals on the opening game of the season. Best of luck to Finn Valley in the season ahead.  Thanks to our ref Patrick Martin. Standout players for Kildrum were Harper Lynch Mahon, Áine Bovaird, and Abaigh Bovaird.

Bonagee United 0-6 Lagan Harps
Bonagee hosted Lagan in their first league, and it was the visitors who came flying out of the gates. Emily McMahon opened the scoring with Catherine Caldwell netting a hat trick in 10 minutes to give Lagan a 4-0 lead at half-time. Just after halftime, Amanda Caldwell got Lagans 5th with a good finish from the edge of the box. Bonagee grew into the game in the second half with Ava Price and Ellie Doherty playing well in the middle. Lagan had a chance through Caoimhe Sweeney, but Ella McGough tackled well to deny her a goal. Katie Gildea got Lagan’s final goal with a good strike just inside the box. Bonagee hit the post twice through Críoa Lyne late on. On the night Lagan showed their quality and deservedly took all 3 points. Thanks to Rory O’Gorman for reffing.

Group 4
Ballyraine As 5-2 Mulroy Academy

Finn Valley Gaels 3-0 Milford United
Tuesday night saw Finn Valley U12 Gaels play visitors Milford FC on a great evening for football. Both teams started the game strong, and there were chances at each end with some great saves by both Emilia Schwitzenberg and Kate Shields at either end of the pitch. Saoirse McMenamin put Finn Valley ahead and then grabbed a second, putting the home team two up at halftime.  Milford started the second half strongly and had some chances, but good defending from Finn Valley held them out. Midway through the second half, Martha Gallagher made it three with a fine effort. Milford battled right to the end in a very tough game between both teams.  Thanks to Milford for the game and good luck for rest of season Thanks to our referee, John Duffy, who, as always, was brilliant with the girls.

Illistrin Bs vs Letterkenny Rovers (Letterkenny Rovers win)
Aoibhe Gibson with 3 goals, Lena Szydelko with 2 goals, Louise McGahey with 2 goals. A great game played by two good teams. The scoreline maybe didn’t reflect the game as the score was only 1-0 up to 45 minutes gone, but Letterkenny Rovers more than deserved the victory. Well played by both teams.

DWL U16 Match Reports 09/04/2025
Group 1
Raphoe Town 0-4 Finn Valley
Two goals in the first half from Ella Udoku sent Finn Valley on their way to victory against Raphoe Town in a well-contested game played in ideal conditions on Wednesday night. Finn Valley captain Brooke Byrne and a goal from Rebecca Gallen capped a fine performance from the visitors who played some really attractive football over the course of the game.
Raphoe who were 3-0 down at half-time, did have some half chances from Erin O’Donnell, Nakita Frizzell but the Valley defence was equal to anything the home side had to offer. There were some excellent performances from both teams in a fine game.

Convoy Arsenal 1-7 St Catherines
We always knew it was going to be a tough game against St. Catherine’s of Killybegs and they certainly showed up tonight, pumping the goals in the first half. We need to dust ourselves off and go again next week. Convoy girls went out in the second half and held the game at 1-1 until a minute before the full whistle when St. Catherine’s got a penalty.
The consolation came from Amy Doonan when she converted a free kick into a lovely goal. A very disappointing result tonight, on to the next one. Chin up girls and let’s go again next week.

Drumbar United 2-1 Donegal Town
Donegal Town made the short trip to Drumbar for Round Two of the Women’s U16 League and both teams delivered a thrilling contest. It was the visitors who started the brightest, pressing high and giving the Drumbar girls no time to settle on the ball. But Drumbar weathered the early storm, and it was Emily Slator who calmed the nerves, finishing smartly inside the box after a dangerous corner from Hannah McGowan to make it 1-0. The goal sparked life into Drumbar, and they began to string together attacking moves. They were unlucky not to extend their lead, with the Donegal Town keeper in sharp form, pulling off key saves from Emma McNulty and Alex Crawford. Donegal Town found their equaliser when a long ball from their goalkeeper bounced kindly for Michaela Hannafin, who latched on and finished well to level the game at 1-1. The second half saw both sides battle for control, but it was Drumbar’s resilience that shone through. In the closing stages, Cara Tooher slipped a perfect through ball into the path of Emily Slator, who showed great composure to round the keeper and slot home her second of the night, giving Drumbar a 2-1 lead. Donegal Town pushed hard in the final minutes, but the Drumbar girls held firm to secure a fantastic and hard-fought win.  A huge well done to both teams for a highly entertaining match and massive credit to our Drumbar girls, who showed character, resilience, and found a new way to win tonight. They never gave up!

Group 2
Keadue Rovers 0-1 Gweedore United
On a glorious evening at Central Park, Keadue hosted their neighbours Gweedore Utd in a tight fought tussle with one goal seperating the teams. Keadue made a bright start, knocking it around well, forcing a few half chances, with a few efforts off target. The visitors grew more into the game after the opening ten minutes and halfway through the opening half, a fine pass threaded through the Keadue defence, found Neasa Diver, who drilled it low past the keeper for 1-0 on twenty two minutes. Gweedore had slightly the better of midfield at that stage but Keadue kept battling away and there was 1 in it at the break. A good start to the 2nd half from the home side with a few changes made, gave them more possession and territory but didn’t break a solid Gweedore defence. Caoimhe Gallagher and Ella Bonner proved good threats up top while for Gweedore, Ciara McFadden and Lily Rodgers were the focal points and gave Gweedore an outlet up the pitch. Keadue kept applying the pressure towards the end but just couldn’t get the leveller and finished 1-0 to the visitors. An entertaining match, with very little between the teams with Gweedore’s experience just proving the difference against a young Keadue team with good prospects for the coming season. Referee: Seimi Ferry.

Glenea United 3-0 Glenree Academy

Group 3
Mulroy Academy 2-0 Illistrin
A perfect evening for football unfolded at Trialough, where glorious sunny weather set the stage for an exciting clash between Mulroy and Illistrin. As always, this fixture promised entertainment, and it did not disappoint. The two teams provided a thrilling contest that was as tight as it was intense. The defences were in top form, ensuring that neither team could break the deadlock in the first half. Mulroy came out in the second half with renewed determination. They quickly found their rhythm and began to dictate the tempo of the game, stringing together some beautiful passages of play. The pressure eventually paid off when Aishling Duffy unleashed a stunning strike that flew into the back of the net, giving Mulroy the lead. Despite this setback, the Illistrin goalkeeper was resolute, pulling off several superb saves to keep her side in the game. However, Mulroy’s persistence continued to shine through, and they eventually doubled their lead when Úna Sweeney found the net with a composed finish. The match was a testament to the strength of both teams, with Mulroy’s Kara Friel and Aoibhinn Callaghan putting in exceptional performances, while Illistrin’s goalkeeper and Aoibhe McFadden were pivotal in keeping their side competitive.  In the end, Mulroy’s clinical finishing and overall team play secured them the three points this time but both teams will be happy with their performance knowing it’s early in the season with lots to build on.

Bonagee United 0-4 Milford United

Ballyraine 5-3 Lagan Harps
Ballyraine girls came out on top of an 8 goal thriller at Orchard Grove on Wednesday night. The home side started well and raced into a 4 goal lead by half time with goals from Clodagh Patton, Emer Cassidy and a brace from Maria McKinney. However Lagan stormed back into the game to make it 4-3 with goals from Lauren Harkin and 2 from Jodie Rodgers.
Emer Cassidy sealed the points with her second goal 5 minutes from the end. Player of the Match: Tara Logue
Next up for Ballyraine is a trip to Illistrin next Wednesday.

DWL U14 Match Reports 11/04/2025
Group 1
Kilmacrennan Celtic 1-4 Keadue Rovers
A sunny Lurgy Park was the venue as Keadue made the trip out to play the host team on a perfect evening for football. The opening 25 minutes was a close affair with Keadue dominating possession but finding it hard to break down the Kilmac back line. The away team finally broke the deadlock on 29 minutes Maria mc Gee latching on to a long throw to fire home from 12 yards. The young home team continued to battle for every ball but conceded a second right on the stroke of halftime when a long ball from Ella Campbell deceived the keeper and ended up in the net. Just 2 minutes into the 2nd half it was 3 when Campbell got her 2nd of the night. Kilmacrenan who fielded with only 11 players on the night continued to work hard and got their reward on 63 minutes when keeper turned striker Cara mc Gettigan fired home from inside the box to give them some hope but keadue had the last word when Ciara Gallagher prodded home in the last minute to round off a good evening for the Rosses team. Kilmacrenan were well served on the night by Aynee McMullan, Jorjamae McGroarty and Aoibhinn Hegarty with Ayva Boyle, Ella Campbell and Emily Doogan all impressing for the winners. Referee on the night was Kevin O Donnell.

Dunfanaghy Youths 0-4 Gweedore Celtic
Callum Friel park was the venue for today’s match for Dunfanaghy Youths FC vs Gweedore Celtic. A very exciting game was in store for the spectators watching. Gweedore opened the score line in the fifth minute through Nell Nic Grianna. With Aine Ni Fherraigh putting the visitors ahead by two in the 32nd minute. Dunfanaghy looked very dangerous on the attack however it was 0-2 to the visitors at half time. Dunfanaghy dominated through spells in the 2nd half with Megan McLaughlin-Montgomery and Robyn Collett very solid in centre defence. Chloe McNulty controlled the midfield while Isabella Galbraith came close on a number of occasions to scoring however the oppositions centre back Nell Nic Grianna was very strong. Towards the end Emily Ward and Enya Logue scored for the visitors to secure the 3 points.

Group 2
Ballyraine Celtic 4-3 Lagan Harps
Ballyraine Celtic u14 girls were on the right end of a seven-goal thriller against Lagan Harps at Orchard Grove.
Éadaoin Kennedy opened the scoring for Ballyraine on 5 minutes with a rasping shot from 20 yards that flew past the Lagan keeper into the top corner. Ten minutes later, Lucy Fabisiak collected the ball on the left-hand side and beat three players before being denied by the Lagan Keeper, who tipped the ball past the post. From the resulting corner Éadaoin Kennedy grabbed her second when she took a short corner from Jessica Byrne and shot past the keeper from a narrow angle. Straight from the training ground. The Lagan girl’s heads could have gone down at this point, but they rallied and were rewarded with a fine goal from the industrious Amy Lateef. Lagan grabbed a deserved equaliser from Teeghan Doherty on 22 minutes to make the score 2-2. Eadaoin Kennedy wasn’t finished though, and she helped herself to a first-half hat trick when she latched onto a Stella O’Donnell cross and knocked the ball home at the back post.  Lagan equalised once again from Teeghan Doherty after a mix-up in the Ballyraine defence.  The first half ended 3-3 with the crowd thoroughly entertained.  The second half was a tighter affair with limited chances for both sides. It was the hard-working right-winger Nicole Diver who grabbed the winner with 15 minutes to go when she rifled in a shot after neat play from Eimear Sweeney. Lagan pressed for an equaliser, but the Ballyraine defence held tight, and the home side went away with all three points.  Final score *Ballyraine Celtic 4-3 Lagan Harps* A great game for the neutral. Good luck to Lagan for the rest of the season, and thanks to referee Orlaíth Doherty. Player of the match: Éadaoin Kennedy.

Cappry Rovers As vs Convoy Arsenal (Cappry Win)
Well done to our U14 Cappry girls tonight who defeated Convoy on a very warm, sunny evening.  Some early pressure from Cappry was rewarded when Alison Imbuli and Klara Lafferty scored 2 excellent goals.
The 2nd half saw some more great goals from our 3 youngest players on the pitch. Alison Imbuli 2 more, Klara Lafferty 2 and Éadaoin McMenamin 4. Some great assists and football throughout the game from all our players. Thanks to our referee Shaun and supporters. Well done girls.

Bonagee United 5-0 Donegal Town As
Bonagee welcomed Donegal Town to Dry Arch Park on a sunny evening. Ruby Sheridan opened the scoring on 8 minutes with a tidy finish just inside the box. Bonagee doubled their lead after Sarah Kelly played a lovely through ball to Tara McDaid who finished into the bottom corner. Not long after Reah Robinson played another great ball through to Tara McDaid who made no mistake in front of goal to get her second. Bonagee started the second half strong with Reah Robinson getting Bonagee’s 4th just after the restart. Eabha Gribben got Bonagees 5th goal finishing well at the keepers near post. Donegal Town threatened a couple of times late on but the Bonagee defence of Ella Doherty, Kayla Watson, Alice Harvey and Sarah Kelly stood strong with Clodagh Gallagher making some good saves to deny their efforts. Thanks to referee Caolan McGarrigle who was the man in the middle.

Group 3
Finn Valley 4-0 Donegal Town Bs

Cappry Rovers Bs vs Raphoe Town (Raphoe Win)
Another hard game for Cappry B side on a sunny evening in Raphoe. Raphoe started very strong and scored some really nice goals in the first half. Sarah Dowds in goal was Cappry’s best player with some big saves and a great penalty save. The second half was no different with Cappry unable to get out of their back line. In the end Raphoe were worthy winners. Although Cappry were well beaten they never stopped running and gave a good account of themselves.

Group 4
Letterkenny Rovers 0-3 Milford United
Letterkenny welcomed Milford Utd to Leckview for the start of their 2025 league campaign. Milford created many chances in the first half but Mary Stan-Mako, Ciara McDaid and Cara McLauglin worked tirelessly to keep the score at 0-0 at half time. Milford scored three in the second half through Lucy McNulty (2), Ava Greer. Outstanding for Letterkenny was Caitlin McBrearty and Aisling McGinley, with Lucy Sweeney excelling for Milford.

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