Thousands gather for homecoming of Mark Rohan

There were scenes of pure joy in Ballinahown yesterday (Tuesday) evening as thousands flocked to the village to honour Paralympic heroes Mark Rohan and Damien Shaw. The atmosphere was electric in anticipation of the arrival of the athletes as Macey South entertained the crowd from a stage set up beside the community hall. Double gold winner Mark and bronze medallist Damien were greeted with cheers and roars from the crowd as they were led by Athlone Pipe Band from Ballinahown NS to the community hall in the centre of the village. The cheers were so loud that they almost drowned out the music of the pipe band - no mean feat! People stepped from the sides of the street to shake hands with Mark as he made his way through the village. The athletes were greeted on stage by MC for the evening, PJ Hoey, who encouraged the crowd to show their appreciation for Mark and Damien. Speakers at the event included Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council Cllr Johnny Penrose, Mayor of Athlone Cllr Jim Henson, Manager of the Irish Paracycling Team Denis Twomey, Irish Paracycling Team Coach Brian Nugent and Fr Aidan Ryan. Will O'Callaghan then conducted interviews with Mark and Damien and their families. * See this week's Westmeath Independent for a full report of this joyous occasion