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:

* Council bid to buy Friary

* Honouring the heroes of 1995: 30th anniversary supplement on Westmeat's All-Ireland minor success

* Council to invite Ballymore Group for Athlone plan presentation

* Athlone team sets off for STEM Racing world finals

* Green light for initial stage of Northgate Street regeneration

* Athlone Joint urban Area Plan to go on display in early 2026

* Planning permission saought for 36 apartments on Abbey Road

* Portiuncula downgrade 'will see hundreds turned away'

* The late Elsie Igoe - ‘a woman of integrity and generosity'

* Council chief "erred" in saying €500k fraud case was closed

* Athlone beekeeper criticises response to latest Asian Hornet threat

* Local DJ says Athlone has the potential to become a music hub

AND IN SPORT:

*Comprehensive coverage of Westmeath senior and intermediate football championships

*Caulry and Tang win senior championship games; Castledaly and Tubberclair among intermediate winners

* European adventure ended by Glasgow but Athlone Town still on course for league title

* Athlone AC’s half marathon and 10km races a big hit again

* Buccaneers hold launch ahead of new All-Ireland League season

* Clann na nGael and St Brigid's set up Roscommon SFC semi-final showdown