Inside this week's Westmeath Independent

Here's a look at some of the stories you'll find in this week's Westmeath Independent, which is out now:

*Lidl appeals refusal

*Athlone man given major honour at Ireland's first Blue Light awards

*Eclipse draws a crowd at Ballykeeran

*Gardai 'identify those involved' in weekend flower pot vandalism

*Moate Show to feature 'the best of rural life'

*Plans progressing for two further active travel routes

*Proposed road safety work at The Pigeons set to be unveiled

*Athlone woman's endurance challenge in memory of her mum

*Ballydangan native growing in National Vegetable Society role

*Nathan 'building reputation' with his influencer agency

*Meeting seeks restoration of livestock shipping capacity

PLUS the latest in our 'A Day in the Life' series featuring Moate's Katharine Ross and her role as an Air Traffic Management Specialist

PLUS photographs from the Athlone Community College and Marist College graduations

AND IN SPORT

*Athlone man leads Irish athletics' fan resurgence

*Local link to gold medal winning ace Mark English

*Athlone Town exit Men's FAI Cup

*Strickland strike keeps Athlone women on track

*Athlone Hockey Club opens membership for new season

PLUS match reports from Westmeath and Roscommon football championship fixtures