Moate community rowing in behind Westmeath's success

As the support behind the Westmeath senior football team grows, the community of Moate are displaying their united community spirit for the county's championship cause.

Following Westmeath's recent Leinster wins in both the men's and ladies GAA championships, Stuart Clifford, who is involved with both the town's St Patrick's Day and Moate Christmas Lights committees, has established an online fundraising initiative to secure funds to buy Westmeath bunting and flags which will line the main street of Moate.

"The support and excitement for our players representing the maroon and white jersey throughout the town of Moate is amazing.

"The buzz on match days is simply electrifying. It's hard to believe as half the town are gone to the games, but those that remain in Moate are in our pubs and restaurants cheering on the team on the televisions," Stuart said.

Stuart acknowledged that the community "always support" the town's St Patrick's Day parade and Christmas lights initiatives "so we need to get behind our Westmeath footballers now".

"We fundraise for a lot of things in Moate via our main street businesses who are always very, very generous. The money keeps our Christmas lights illuminated and parades marching, but this time I thought we could put it out to the public to fund this endeavour and they have certainly given their support to the initiative," Stuart added.

Within 24 hours of the gofundme page being launched online, almost €4,000 has been raised, while a number of cash donations have also been received towards the initiative.

"It's an amazing response from the people of Moate and beyond. I also see names next to donations from the communities of Mount Temple, Rosemount, Castledaly, and Moyvoughly. We may all have our own GAA clubs but at this moment in time we are all Westmeath.

"We have long stretches of Westmeath bunting in production and a large county flag on the way so keep your eyes peeled you pass through the town from next week," Stuart said.

As the Westmeath senior footballer's championship odyssey continues, Stuart recalled his late father-in-law Benny Malone, an ardent follower of The Lake County through the years.

"Benny came from Mount Temple but lived in Moate most of his life. He was definitely one of Westmeath's greatest ever supporters. He never missed a Westmeath match and would follow them all over the country. It's just a shame he is not here today to see his town dressed for success in his beloved maroon and white colours," Stuart said.

If you would like to make a donation to the 'Moate Bunting' gofundme page please visit the link https://www.gofundme.com/s?q=moate+bunting