In this week's Westmeath Independent

The first Westmeath Independent of 2018 is now on the shelves and features 72 pages of the best local news, sports, features and photography coverage. Our stories include:

* Local family 'living a nightmare' after pre-Christmas assault in Athlone

* Gardai believe missing teen could be in Athlone area

* Glasson shop sells €50,000 scratchcard winner

* House prices up 13% in Westmeath 

* Glen Hansard's impromptu seisiún thrills Kilbeggan

* US pharma firm establishes first manufacturing plant in Athlone

* PHOTO SPECIALS: The wedding of Michelle Mannion and Eoin Bolton; The wedding of Nicola McCaul and Dermot Sammon; Festive fundraiser in Mount Temple; South Westmeath Harriers Hunt Ball; Derek Daly Memorial Run, Castledaly GAA GOAL Mile; Tim Ross Memorial at Midland Warriors RFC; and Cork City boss John Caulfield brings leage and cup trophies back to Lecarrow. 

* 2017: A look back on the year in photos, quotes, and with our popular annual quiz

* Doon's Michelle Claffey makes Irish women's rugby squad

* New boss Kelly happy with opening day as Westmeath's rematch with Laois looms

* Lake County's hurlers edged out by Offaly in Walsh Cup 

All this and more is included in this week's edition, which is in shops now and can also be accessed online, through the ePaper link at the top of this page.