Castlebar Community Games meet in bid to save future

Those behind Castlebar Community Games are hosting a meeting as they try and keep the flag flying for the organisation in Mayo’s county town.

Since 1967, children the length and breadth of Ireland have competed in competitions spanning sports and arts under the flag of the community games.

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Those who have participated hold the memories of taking part in these showcases of prowess in many fields from the stage to the field.

For almost 50 years, Castlebar has had its part to play.  However, the future seems to be in serious doubt, as volunteer numbers have been dwindling.

Per those involved, fresh blood is needed to keep the door open to children in Castlebar.

“It's only when the games are gone that parents will ask what happened,” a spokesperson for the group stated.

“We believe that every child has the right  to enjoy a pastime with their friends or schoolmates or on their own in a safe environment on a pitch, track, stage or pool.”

Those who have been running the group in recent years fear that should no one come to their aid, it may be a case of putting the lights out for good before long.

“The few volunteers who are there at the moment are remaining on but need more help to save the games from extinction.”

Castlebar Community Games are hosting a public meeting relating to the future of the organisation in the area on Wednesday, February 12 at 7.30pm in the Ivy Tower hotel in Castlebar.