Celebrations to mark centenary of people's green in Athboy

Celebrations are planned for the August bank holiday weekend to mark the centenary of the handing over of Athboy Fair Green to the people of the town. In 1910, the Earl of Darnley gave the green to a board of trustees to maintain on behalf of the people of the town. Various trustees have been looking after the affairs of the green over the past 100 years and a minute book, which has been kept since 1910, is to be handed over to the county library for its records. Records show that Athboy Fair Green was vested in a committee of trustees by the Earl of Darnley for the people of Athboy and surrounding areas at a meeting in the Market House (now McElhinney's Bridal Store), on Thursday 26th May 1910. After a meeting with the trustees, who had no financial assets, the earl vested it free of legal expense. The by-laws and standing orders were drawn up, discussed and passed. At the next meeting, a subscription list was opened for funds towards the upkeep of the green and cash to the amount of £7 was collected. A sum of £3 was received from Buffalo Bill's Circus. At the second annual meeting, it was decided not to charge the usual one penny for washing sheep. This was amended that the sum of six pence per score be charged and a bank account was opened in the Ulster Bank. The green extends to six-and-a-half acres surrounded by stone walls, which were restored by ANCO (now Fás) in 1984 and 1985. A major development of the green took place in 1999 when pathways were constructed and lighting installed. There are currently 18 trustees, with Des McCormack as chairman and Margaret Brady, secretary. The centenary celebrations will begin on Saturday 31st July with a historical walk with local historian, Maureen Phelan, at 2pm. At 6pm, there will be a High Nellie fun ride from the green to the Hill of Ward and Ballyfallon before returning to the green, with a number of pit stops en route. The main event will be a free family fun day on Sunday 1st August, on the green. There will be stalls and a marquee with crafts and produce, as well as representation from local clubs, organisations and societies, and a look back at the town's famous historical figures, such as Fr Eoghan O'Growney. Hot air balloons will be present and there will be plenty of children's activities. Families are invited to bring picnics. Activities get underway at 2pm.