Moate group excited to meet Hollywood star in Dún na Sí

Members of the Moate's Community Walk and Talk group were suprised and delighted to meet well known Hollywood actor, Peter Gallagher, in Dún na Sí last weekend.

Known for his roles in the cult hit show 'The O.C', 'Grey's Anatomy' and Netflix comedy 'Grace and Frankie, as well as numerous films over years, the Irish American actor popped into Lillymay's cafe in the park on Sunday last (September 17) during his travels around Ireland.

He happily chatted and posed for photos with members of the group and cafe staff during his visit.

Launched in February, Moate Community Walk and Talk group was set up to ensure that there is an inclusive space with a warm welcome for every member of the community where all nationalities, ages and abilities can interact with others, make friends, develop networks and feel part of Moate's fabric.

Meeting every Sunday, the aim of the group is to show solidarity, respect, friendship and provide a warm sense of belonging in our community to all members of the community. Everyone is invited to come along and join the group from local residents, to newcomers to the town, refugees and asylum seekers living in Temple Accommodation Centre, Ukrainian refugees living in the town, members of the local Active Retirement Group, Moate Men's Shed, friends of St Hilda's Services in Moate, local schools, etc. All are welcome to come along, and join in.

Volunteers from New Horizons refugee and support group provide transport to residents in Temple Accommodation centre, near Horseleap, some 7km outside Moate to ensure they can be part of the weekly activities.

When the group meets on Sunday mornings at the sensory garden, there are plenty of chats to reconnect on the past week, sharing of news about upcoming events, and then the group heads off for a few laps of the park, where people walk, jog or run, depending on each person's ability. There is no pressure placed on anyone.

The group then returns to the sensory garden for the highlight of the morning - tea, coffee and homemade refreshments and more chats and fun.

The genesis of Moate Community Walk and Talk group came from conversations with volunteers from Temple Accommodation Centre, who have been members of a voluntary gardening club in the sensory garden in Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park over the past two years, and also with Ukrainian families who arrived in Moate in late January, as way of helping the new residents build networks and get involved, and therefore feel part of, the local community in the town.

Anyone who wants to participate in Moate Community Walk and Talk group should contact coordinator Maria Flanagan for more details on 086 3783483.