Paddy Goes To Holyhead

Full of eastern promise…

atest press release from Cllr Stephen Stokes, issued on Sunday, July 30th 2023…

Twinning between Greystones and Holyhead is now in its eleventh year.

A delegation from Greystones travelled to the Holyhead Festival in late July 2023. The Greystones group expressed their thanks and gratitude to Holyhead representatives for showing them around Anglesey.

Cllr Stephen Stokes stated: “Our twinning partnership continues to go from strength to strength. Several community groups are interested in linking up for new visits. We are appreciative to Holyhead for their continued friendship. The Mayor of Holyhead, Hywel Williams, presented us with a lovely framed print of Anglesey that will take pride of place in the Greystones Municipal District Building.”

The Greystones Delegation arrived on Friday, July 28th, and were given an excellent day tour of Anglesey. One of the highlights of the trip was a photo stop at St Cwyfan’s Church.

Cllr Stokes added: “Our links between Anglesey and Wicklow go back to ancient times. St Cwyfan’s Church is an amazing church on a tidal island. It dates back to the 12th century, and is dedicated to St. Kevin, who founded the monastery at Glendalough. So in that regard our positive community relations are following an ancient precedent.”

On Saturday, July 29th the group met with Virginia Crosbie, Member of Parliament for Anglesey, at the Holyhead Festival. This was followed by a visit to the local enterprise centre, where the Greystones delegation visited a local craft business. Former Mayor of Greystones, Kathleen Kelleher believes that these types of businesses are of great interest to North Wicklow. She stated: “Developing micro business facilities, with reasonable rents should be looked at closely.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes paid tribute to all of those who have worked tirelessly on twinning relations between Holyhead and Greystones for over a decade. Cllr Stokes added: “On the Greystones side, Kathleen Kelleher has been immense. Someone who gives her all for the community. We are also indebted to our Council Officials over the years including Kay Coughlan, Tawnia Kearns and Myra Porter who have dedicated so much time and energy.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes has recommended that Wicklow people consider a visit to Anglesey. He further stated: “There is something for everyone, from seaside pursuits to ancient monuments. The Holyhead Festival is always very enjoyable, and usually takes place on the last weekend of July.”

Furthermore, it has been confirmed that Holyhead Santa is planning to return to Greystones in November 2023.

Cllr Stokes concluded: “We are looking forward to welcoming Santa and his elves. They are always bring great joy and festive spirit to the Greystones community.”