QUIZ: The Parents' Association of St John of God Primary School is hosting its annual Fun Quiz Night on Thursday, March 11, at the Artane Beaumont Family Recreation Centre at 8pm. Come along for a great night.

TALK: The Dublin Five Horticultural Society's next talk, ‘Vegetable Growing’, by John Markham, will take place on Thursday, March 11, at the Artane Beaumont Family Recreation Centre, Kilmore Road, at 8pm. Admission is e4. Tea/biscuits served and a raffle of gardening items. Call 087-2423020 for further details. 

COFFEE MORNING: A coffee morning will be held at CIAO restaurant in Malahide on Thursday, March 18, from 10am to 2pm in aid of Daffodil Day for the Irish Cancer Society.

OKLAHOMA: Baldoyle Musical Society’s production of the musical, ‘Oklahoma’, will be held from Tuesday to Saturday, April 20-24, at 8pm in St Mary’s Secondary School, Baldoyle. The show features great singing and dancing, with all of your favourite songs and much loved characters from this most classic of musicals. Tickets are priced at e15 (e12 for children and OAPs). There is a special rate of e10 per ticket for groups of 10 and over on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 20 and 21. To book, call 085-1378329 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

CRAFT FAIR: Fingal’s biggest Easter Craft Fair event will be held on Sunday, March 14, at the GAA Complex, St Maur’s, Rush, from 11am to 5pm. It will host around 50 stalls with different crafts such as woodwork, glass art, patchwork, pottery, jewellery, designer knitwear, beauty products, baking, jams, flowers, candles, toys, paintings, photography and much more. All are welcome. All profits from stall rental will go to St Francis Hospice and the Jack & Jill Foundation. For more information phone Irene on 8490176 or Maud on 8417833.

MUSICAL MARATHON: Choirs from 11 different churches and organisations will take part in a Musical Marathon at Sutton Methodist Church from 11am to 8pm on Saturday March 27. Admission is e10 and for that you can stay for an hour or stay all day and includes tea/coffee and biscuits. At last year’s event, e3,600 was raised for St Francis Hospice in Raheny.

MARKET: The North Dublin branch of Cuidiu is holding an indoor market at St Colmcille’s GAA Hall, Swords, on Thursday, March 11, from 10am to 1pm. All buyers and sellers welcome. It only costs e10 to set up a table. Come along and turn that clutter into cash. Phone 8402582 for more details.

DRAMA: St Andrew’s Players’ current production, ‘Rumours’, by Neil Simon, will take place at Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 11, 12 and 13, at 8pm. Tickets, which cost only e12 (concessions e10), are available from the school, phone 8450185 or 086-8164846. St Andrew’s Players is a drama group that has been performing locally since 1993 and fundraising for St Andrew’s National School, Malahide.

ART EXHIBITION: YLaKe Art Group is holding its first art exhibition in Baldoyle Library from March 8-13.
 
QUIZ: The Springdale National School Parent Teachers’ Association is running a fundraising pub quiz on Friday, March 12, at 8pm in the Cedars Lounge (upstairs), Raheny. Admission is e40 per team, four members maximum. Register on the night. All are welcome.

TALK: Clontarf Historical Society will host a talk, ‘Clontarf Baths & Assembly Rooms’, by Bernardine Ruddy, on Monday, March 8, at 8.15pm in the Parish Resource Centre beside St John the Baptist Church, Clontarf Road. Admission per talk is e4. Enquiries 8338711.

BRIDGE: Afternoon Bridge in aid of the Little Sisters of the Poor, Sybil Hill, Raheny, takes place every Monday from 2pm to 4.30pm. All grades welcome. Novice and Improvers’ section is separate. For more information, phone Peter on 8339797 or 087-9344795.

MASS: Craobh Brugha CCE’s annual Thanksgiving Mass will take place at Gael Scoil Mide, Greendale Road, Kilbarrack, on Monday, March 8, at 8pm. It will be followed a ceili with the Sean Og Ceili Band. All are welcome.

CARERS: A workshop for family carers on looking after your back and what to do if someone falls will be facilitated by a chartered physiotherapist in Baldoyle Library on March 24, from 10.30am to 12 noon. It is being organised by Crosscare Carer Support Group and funded by Dormant Accounts. Contact Rosemary on 8360011 for more information.

WRITERS: Swords Writers’ Group is open for membership. The group comprises poets, novelists, short story writers, screenwriters and journalists who use the peer support of the group to learn about and develop their craft. The friendly group meets at the Hawthorn Hotel, Main Street Swords, every second Wednesday in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The group is open to new members all year round. For further information, visit www.swordswriters.ie

TOASTMASTERS: Do you dread speaking in public? Are you afraid of being asked to give a presentation at work? Join Fingal Toastmasters and learn techniques of public speaking in a relaxed atmosphere. A meeting will take place at the Marine Hotel, Sutton, at 8.15pm on Monday, March 15 and on alternate Mondays thereafter.

CANCER SUPPORT: A Cancer Support Group is looking for people who would be interested in setting up a group that would be based in the Swords area. Contact Valerie on 087-6683973 for further information.

FUNDRAISING EVENT: The Parents’ Associations at St Paul's Junior and Senior Schools in Ayrfield present the Hallelujah Gospel Choir and the North Dublin Community Gospel Choir in St Paul’s Church, Ayrfield on March 26 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost e10 and are available from the Parish office or school secretary’s office.
 
RED CROSS: Are you interested in learning First Aid training or enhancing your First Aid skills? Skerries Red Cross hold meetings at Skerries Educate Together National School, Kelly’s Bay, Skerries, on Mondays from 7pm. For further information email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

MALE SINGERS: Dolce Choir needs male singers now. Dolce is a northside mixed based, four-part harmony choir which rehearses every Thursday from 7.30pm to 10pm. The choir embraces all ages, is fun, welcoming and challenging. You need to be able to sing but an ability to read music is not essential. Auditions will be taking place immediately. Musical director is Deirdre Ni Chaomhanaigh. Text or call 087-2425513 if you’re interested.

WANTED: Collector seeks Irish picture postcards, old and not so old, used or unused. Also, Irish aviation picture postcards and Aer Lingus memorabilia. Please contact John on 8378898.

PLAYERS WANTED: Killester Basketball Club is seeking boys aged 8-10 for their Under 11 team. The club is also looking for boys born in 1994/95, 6ft 2ins plus (no basketball experience required) for its Under 15/16 teams. Phone Conor on 086-3938010 for further information.

PITCH & PUTT: St Mary’s Pitch and Putt Club is seeking new lady members. The club plays at Inisfails GAA Club in Balgriffin on Saturdays at 10am from February to December. For more details contact Pat on 086-3505384.

WANTED: Old spectacles or sunglasses to help those less fortunate in the developing countries to see better. Please post or drop in your unwanted spectacles or sunglasses to Supersavers Opticians in Talbot Street (phone 8363051) or Raheny Opticians, Raheny Shopping Centre (phone 8187918).

NORDIC WALKING: Have Fun, meet new friends and get fit in 2010. A new Nordic Walking Club meet and walk in the Phoenix Park every Saturday morning throughout the year and every Tuesday evening during the summer months. Training will be arranged for anyone interested in joining the club. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 086-0427989 for more information. You can also visit www.nordicwalkers.ie

CHILDMINDING: Are you childminding or thinking about becoming a childminder? The Childcare Bureau is one of Dublin City Childcare Committee’s local childcare resource centres providing support and training to childminders and parents. If you are interested in availing of training or require support and information, please contact Alison on 8675244 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This is a community based resource centre that provides support, advice and training for free.
 
TOASTMASTERS Iarnrod Eireann Toastmasters invites you to develop better speaking and presentation skills. Learn to think quickly and clearly on your feet. Build strong leadership abilities. Improve your listening skills. Meet every second Tuesday at Ripley Court Hotel, Talbot Street, Dublin 1, at 6.45pm.

VOLUNTEERS: The Caring and Sharing Association (CASA), which has two youth groups based in the Swords area, is recruiting volunteers for 2010. If you have one Sunday afternoon a month free, and can make a minimum commitment of six months then CASA would love to hear from you. No experience is necessary but enthusiasm and dedication is required. CASA offers friendship, respite care and social activities on a one-to-one basis for people with both physical and intellectual disabilities. Phone Rebecca on 087-1260975 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.
  
NEW MEMBERS: Scoil Uí Chonaill GAA club welcomes new members. The club caters for every age from nursery boys and girls to adult ladies and men. For more details contact PRO Niamh Crowe on 8333599.

TOASTMASTERS: Malahide Toastmasters meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 8pm in the Grand Hotel Malahide. All are welcome. Contact Liam on 087-2696260 for more information.

BRIDGE: A Novice Bridge Club is opening in Drumcondra. A place where novice and mini bridge players can practice what they’ve learnt in a friendly atmosphere and under expert supervision. Weekly, starting February 11 at 7.30pm in the Ierne Sports and Social Club. Contact Ranald on 086-3868480 for more details.
    
VOLUNTEERS: Volunteers are required to establish a Foróige youth club in the Santry area. If you are aged 18 or over and would have an hour to spare once a week, the club needs you. The club is for young people aged 12 and over from the local area. For further information phone Bryan Gavin on 086-8519639 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

TRADITIONAL MUSIC: The Craobh Seán Treacy branch of Comhaltas Ceolteori Éireann host a traditional music, song and dance session every Tuesday night at Clasac, Alfie Byrne Road, Clontarf. Musicians of all ages welcome. Contact 8393093 or 8363059 for further details.

EMPLOYMENT: North Dublin Supported Employment. Do you have a disability/impairment? Would you like support in finding employment? If you have training, work experience or previous work history, we can support you. Please contact Work4U on 8442700 for further information.      

BEREAVEMENT: Are you interested in supporting those who have been bereaved? If you would like to become a member of St Colmcille’s Parish Swords Bethany Bereavement Support Group, would like further details about Bethany volunteers and training or would like to avail of this free, confidential service, phone 8403243 or 8402652. Also, visit www.bethany.ie

MEALS ON WHEELS: Volunteer drivers are needed to deliver meals in the Swords area around midday. This should take no more than an hour of your time and can be done on a fortnightly basis. It is an invaluable service in the community. Please call Joan on 087-6963813 for more information.

COUNSELLING: TARGET in Donaghmede offers a one-to-one non-directive counselling service on Monday to Friday from 9.30am-1.30pm and Monday to Thursday from 7pm-9pm. For an appointment, phone 8670279. Childcare services are available for morning appointments by arrangement with receptionist.

DREAMS: Dreams have long been a source of fascination. What are dreams and what is their purpose? These are just some of the questions that will be discussed at a Dream Discussion Group (non-profit making). If you are interested in dreams or would like more information, contact Declan on 087-9957277 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

TOASTMASTERS: Clontarf/Marino Toastmasters Club is a non-profit club affiliated to Toastmasters International. The club holds regular meetings.  Guests are always welcome with the first night free. Contact Patricia Murphy on 085-1165571 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you require further details.
  
BADMINTON: A badminton club (mixed), based at 1 Commons Street, International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), is recruiting new members for Fridays from 8.30pm to 11pm. Three-court facility. For more information, phone Catherine on 086-2730399.
 
CHOIR: Would you like to join a mixed choir? Seafield Singers always welcomes good singers, particularly men. Sight-reading is not a priority. Rehearsals take place on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm in Clontarf. If you are interested, please contact Alison Young on 4904226.

VOLUNTEERS: The ABACAS School in Kilbarrack is looking for volunteers to drive the school minibus for school activities like swimming and horse riding during school hours. Volunteers will have to have a clean D1 driving licence, be willing to fill out a Garda Vetting form and must have at least two references. Please call Mandy Daly on 8396705 from 9am to 3pm or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

BADMINTON: A badminton club is looking for ladies to play the sport at Portmarnock Community School every Tuesday from 8.30pm to 10.30pm. For more information phone Eileen on 8461474.

BIBLE TALKS: A series of talks from the Bible are being given at Balbriggan Combined Clubs Community Centre Dublin Street, Balbriggan, on Tuesdays from 8-9pm. These talks are free.

CHESS: Portmarnock Chess Club is seeking new members (juniors 7.30pm and adults 8.30pm) for their meetings every Thursday. The club caters for all types of players from casual and social to highly competitive, and competes in Dublin Community Games and the Leinster Chess Leagues. For further details, contact Denis Kelleher on 085-1690101.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: Is food a problem for you? Do you eat when you’re not hungry? Do you go on eating binges for no apparent reason? Is your weight affecting the way you live your life? Phone Overeaters Anonymous on 2788106 or visit
www.oa.org

WEBSITE: Struggling to find out where kids’ classes are on or to think of things to do with the kids at the weekend in North Dublin? Visit www.mykidstime.ie for more information.

WOMEN’S GROUP: A new intercultural women’s group is being established in the Swords area, which will initially meet on a monthly basis. The group is open to women from all backgrounds. For further information, contact Atinuke Diya on 085-7065797 or Sara McIntyre, Fingal LEADER Partnership on 8951070/086-1718002 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

VOLUNTEERING: Are you interested in helping your community to improve services and opportunities? Lá go Bhrí is a community childcare service based in the Mourne View Estate, Skerries. The management committee is seeking new members to become involved in the running of the service. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Helen on 8020484 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

CHOIR: The Dublin City Council Choir is a mixed choir drawn from all over the city. They rehearse from 5.30pm to 7.30pm every Thursday at the Civic Offices, Wood Quay, and would welcome people who enjoy raising their voices in song and meeting likeminded people.

UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY: Unexpected Pregnancy is hard to face. If you need help or support, contact CURA. Phone in confidence. All services are free.
Phone 1850 622 626 or 6710598 or visit www.cura.ie for more information.

STROKE SCHEME: The Volunteer Stroke Scheme Northside is appealing for volunteer drivers and helpers for their stroke clubs held in Kilbarron Court every Monday and Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Please send your applications to: The Volunteer Stroke Scheme 249, Crumlin Road, Dublin 12, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Phone 4559036.

WRITERS: Trinity Writers’ Group is currently looking for new members. The group has been in existence since 1991 and have produced several collections of poetry and short stories. It is a friendly group where members meet and chat, read poetry, short stories or a section of a novel they may be working on. It’s optional to read or not. The group meets at 6.30pm on the first Thursday of the month in the back room of Donaghmede Library.

AL-ANON: If you are troubled by someone else's drinking, there are weekly meetings taking place throughout Dublin, including Abbey Street, Gardiner Street, Stanhope Street, Ballymun, Blakestown, Cabra, Coolock, Finglas, Killester, Malahide, Raheny, Sutton and Swords. For details of the meeting nearest you, contact Al-Anon Family Groups Information Centre, 5 Capel Street, Dublin, on 8732699. Alternatively, email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.al-anon-ireland.org

SOCIAL GROUP: A social group for mature single people has been formed in north county Dublin. The group is for people in their 30s or 40s who want to meet new people for dining, cinema, nights out and maybe even daytrips or weekends away. You must be single/divorced/separated, with or without kids. The group meets once a month for drinks on a Saturday night at various venues on the Northside, where the setting up of other events is discussed. For more information, visit www.meetup.com/NSSN35/

HISTORY: Are you interested in the history of Coolock and surrounding areas? You are invited to join a new local history group in Coolock Library. Meetings take place on the first Tuesday of every month at 6.30pm in the library. No particular skills are needed and all are welcome. For further details phone 8477781 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

TODDLERS: A Parent & Toddler Group meets at St Gabriel's Parish Centre, Clontarf, every Monday from 10.30am to 12 noon except during school holidays. Open to pre school children. Parents and childminders are welcome. Enquiries to 087-9383772.

COUNSELLING: Baldoyle Family Resource Services provides confidential counselling for anyone experiencing difficulties in life. Counselling is offered in marital/relationship difficulties, adolescent/child counselling, bereavement and other general issues. For more information/ appointment, phone Lilian on 8326115.

BEREAVEMENT: A Bereavement Support Group meet in the Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre on Thursdays from 8pm to 9.30pm. This counsellor-facilitated group is suitable for individuals who are affected by the death of a family member, friend or companion. The service is free of charge. For further information phone Tina on 8187180.

WRITERS: The Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre Monday Writers’ Group welcomes new members. Sessions take place from 10.30am to 1pm. Free of charge. For further information phone Liz on 8314494. 

BALDOYLE: Baldoyle Badminton Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 2pm-11pm. Try out the fastest sport in the world. To hire a court, phone 8393355/8393074.

CHOIR: Dublin City Council Choir is looking for new members. They meet from 5.30pm to 7.30pm every Thursday at the Civic Offices on Wood Quay and welcome people who wish to sing with them.

LADIES: Ladies’ Club meet at St Laurence O’Toole’s GAA Club on Blunden Drive, Ayrfield, every second Tuesday. All are welcome. Phone 087-7820583.

CHESS: New members are welcome to Portmarnock Chess Club on Thursdays, juniors (7.30pm) and adults (8.30pm. The club, which has been in existence since 1971, caters for all types of players, from casual to highly competitive. They compete in the Dublin Community Games, Irish and Leinster tournaments, Leinster Chess Union leagues and weekend tournaments. Phone Denis Kelleher, club president, on 085-1690101 for further information.

YOUTH CLUB: Clontarf Foróige Youth Club urgently needs adult volunteers to help out. If you are aged 18 or over, and would like to give something back to the community, then the club needs you. It caters for young people aged 12 and over. Members get involved in fun activities and games that they are interested in. This is a great opportunity to engage with and meet new people. If you have an hour to spare and would be interested, please contact Bryan Gavin, Foróige Regional Youth Officer on 086-8519639 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

READING AND WRITING: Life can be hard when you have a problem with reading and writing. Can you spare two hours a week, morning or evening, to help someone improve their skills? Training will commence in October. Phone Marie Casey on 8171990 for more information.

CARERS: Are you a family carer? Caring for a child with special needs, a family member with a long-term illness or a frail older person? The Crosscare Carer-Support Programme offers a variety of services in North Dublin. To find out what’s happening in your area, contact Nora or Rosemary at Crosscare Carer-Support Programme on 8360011.

CHOIR: The Cantible Choir is now recruiting new members. The choir meets every Tuesday at 8pm in a city centre venue. If you would like to join a choir and are in good voice, please contact Phyl on 2854674 or Phil on 087-2161182.

TALENT SHOW: Greenhills Variety Group hosts ‘You Got Talent 2010’ with a top prize of e1,000 in the Submarine Bar, Crumlin from Sunday, April 25. The final takes place on Sunday, May 30. For an entry form and more information contact Claire Mulhall on 0857572698 or email greenhillsvg @gmail.com

LECTURE: Kevin Cronin will present his lecture ‘Northabout – Circumpolar Arctic Voyage crossing the Northwest Passage’ at 8pm on Thursday, March 11 to the Kilmacud - Stillorgan Historical Society in the Function Room, Glenalbyn, Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan. Admission e3.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ‘Those that were found’ is the title of a new exhibition of photography by Hazel Fitzpatrick in the Dundrum Mill Theatre from March 27 - April 29.

STAMPS: John Lennon will present his lecture ‘The Irish Postage Stamp’ at 8pm on Wednesday, March 10 to the Ballybrack-Killiney Historical Society in the Parochial Hall, SS Alphonsus & Columba Church, Church Avenue (entrance off Killiney Hill Road), Ballybrack. All welcome - admission e3.

BRIDGE: is played on Sunday nights in the Parish Centre, Churchtown (at the rear of the Good Shepherd Church) from 7.30pm. All welcome.

CEILI: Donnybrook Ceili Club will hold their next monthly ceili on Saturday, March 13 from 9.30pm to 12.30am at Donnybrook Youth Club Hall, Belmont Avenue, Donnybrook. Beginners welcome.

DANCING: A set dancing class for fun and fitness takes place in Stackstown off Kellystown Road each Wednesday at 8.15pm. Ceili Mor La le Padraid takes place on March 17 from 8.30pm to 12.30am. An Fodlagh Ceili Band and the monthly ceili starts on Wednesday, March 31 at 8.15pm with ‘The Lads from Searsons’.

FLOWERS: Dundrum Flower Club is having a flower arranging demonstration on Tuesday, March 9 in Gort Muire, Ballinteer Road at 7.45pm. The evening is called 'Floral Magic' by Brenda Joyce and all are welcome.

DANCE: Perrystown/Manor Estate Community Centre in Dublin 12 is hosting a St Patrick’s night dance on Wednesday, March 17 with music by the Good Times from 9pm  – 12.30am. Tickets e10 are payable at the door. Tel 4562373.

SOCIAL CLUB: The Wednesday Club is a long established social club in the Stillorgan area which caters for persons in the 50s and 60s age group who are widowed or unattached. New male members are needed to improve the gender balance. Tel 2804281 for more information.
 
MUSICAL: Transition year students from Christian Brothers College, Monkstown Park and Loreto College, Foxrock will be performing ‘Les Misérables’ from Sunday, March 21 to 26 in CBC Monkstown Park, Dun Laoghaire. For details and ticket reservations go to www.cbcmusical.com

BIBLE TALKS: The story of Jesus and other teachings from God's word are told every Sunday from 7 to 8pm in the Scout’s Den, St Killians Hall, Watery Lane, Clondalkin and in Bawnogue Youth and Community Centre, Bawnogue Road, Clondalkin every Thursday from 8 to 9pm. All welcome. Tel 4589436.

CHARITY: Due to generous donations the Sue Ryder Charity Shop in Blackrock has Spring and Summer clothes now available to customers. The shop is open from Monday to Saturday from 10-5pm in Blackrock Village, Carysfort Avenue, across from the Credit Union. Tel Mandy on 086 4001814 or go to www.sueryderfoundation.ie

SUICIDE: The Pieta House ‘Darkness into Light 5k Event’ will take place on Saturday, May 8 in the Phoenix Park. Participants will be invited to walk or run the 5k route, starting while it is still dark and completing the circuit as dawn is breaking. This will be a symbolic event to give hope to those affected by suicide and self-harm. On line registration is available at www.pieta.ie

BRIDGE: Brian’s Bridge School is inviting new applications for an absolute beginners course at Inchicore College of Further Education every Monday from 1pm to 2.30pm. OAPs, the unemployed and part-timers particularly welcome. Book early by tel Brian or Liz on 4501541.
WALKING: Nordic Walking Classes are now taking place in the lovely fields and woods surrounding Kilruddery House, just outside Bray, Co Wicklow.  These are suitable for all levels of fitness and ages. Classes on Saturdays and Sunday cost e8. Details from Dairine on 0861936861.

CHURCH: The South City Church meets on Sundays at 11am in Glenalbyn Function Room, Stillorgan. See www. southcitychurch.org

ART: New classes for beginners and more experienced are taking place in Dundrum. Details at www.gerardogradyart.com or tel Ger on 0872904212/2790527.

BRIDGE: Bridge classes and bridge club for beginners and improvers take place every Thursday at 7.15pm in St Conleth's College, Clyde Road, Ballsbridge. Tel Thomas MacCormack on 0863859953 for details.

BADMINTON: Ladies Badminton Club play in De La Salle College, Churchtown on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am to 1pm. New members welcome. Contact Bernadette on 08724499395 or Oonagh on 0879341241.

GLASSES: Supersavers Opticians are appealing for old, unwanted spectacles or sunglasses to help those in the developing countries. Post all donations or drop them into Supersavers Opticians on Talbot Street at the (corner of Talbot Street and Gardiner Street (beside O’Shea’s Hotel) or into the branch in Raheny Shopping Centre.

WALKS: The ‘Let’s Walk & Talk’ Sandymount Group meets every Thursday at 2pm at Sandymount Green for a walk to Irishtown Nature Reserve, along Sandymount Strand or to various parks in the surrounding areas. There are currently seven free weekly walks in the city with history, culture and nature all on offer. See www.letswalkandtalk.ie for more information

THEATRE: The Boolabus Youth Theatre in Dun Laoghaire is back with workshops every Saturday from 11am to 2pm. The group is going into rehearsals soon for their spring production and all 15-year-olds and over are invited to come along. They meet in the Drama Studio in the Old Nurse’s Home at the back of St Michael’s Private Hospital. Tel Lorraine for further information on 2806147 or 087-9401189.

SOCIAL: A Southside social group for unattached adults seeks additional members. Ballinteer based. Contact Deirdre on 086 3698931 or Steve on 0868873644.

EXHIBITION: A WB Yeats lecture series is taking place at the National Library of Ireland where every month an object from the exhibition ‘Yeats: The life and works of William Butler Yeats’ is selected for discussion. Admission is free and no booking is required.

OLD COINS: Irish coins or notes and small euro cents are needed for three charities including Haven (that build houses in Haiti); Children of Andes (for the street kids of Colombia) and Street league, the homeless Irish world cup soccer team. Collections can be arranged. Contact Brendan Flynn on 0868189888 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

CAR BOOT SALE: The Glasthule Car Boot Sale (formerly Pres Car Boot Sale) will take place on the first and third Sunday of every month. A hall will be available for indoor stalls. Tea, coffee, refreshments and lunches served. No food vans. Contact Liz on 0876308072 for further details.

CLUB: A bridge club meets at Leopardstown Park Hospital on Thursday nights from 7.30pm. A and B grade players welcome. Tel 2896496.

BRIDGE: Absolute beginners are welcome to join new classes for Bridge in Inchicore and Kilnamanagh. Expert tutoring available. Tel Brian or Liz on 4501541.

CANCER SUPPORT: Yoga and relaxation classes are held in St Laurence Community Centre, Kilmacud, Stillorgan from 1.30 to 2.30pm each Thursday. Tel 2885725.

BADMINTON: A friendly game of badminton is held in St Laurence Community Centre every Thursday from 10 to 11am.

FIRST AID: The St John Ambulance hosts a First Aid course at Brigade HQ, 29 Upper Leeson Street. Tel 6688077 for further details.
 
OVEREATING: Do you obsess about food and weight all the time? Do you try to control food and weight constantly? Do you throw up, starve yourself, binge on a regular basis? Do you feel isolated, scared and think no one else acts and feels around food the way you do? If so tel 2891599/mob 087 2390595 or go to www.obsessiveeatersanonymous.org

BARBERSHOP: A new barbershop choir has started in St Tiernan’s Community School, Parkvale, Balally, Dundrum. Membership is open to those aged 14 and upwards (adults particularly welcome) and no previous experience is needed - just a love of singing. Rehearsals are held every Wednesday from 7 to 9pm in the school library. For more information, contact Paula at: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or on 0871208085 (after school hours) on any day.
THEATRE: The Boolabus Youth Theatre and Film Group meets every Saturday in Dun Laoghaire from 11am-2pm. Age group is from 15 to 20. New members welcome. Phone Lorraine on 2806147 or 0879401189.

DANCE CLASSES: Irish dance, set dance, and international folk dance classes for 12 to 16 year old male and female and 16 to 25 year old males take place every Monday in the Holy Cross Church Hall, Main Street, Dundrum. For information tel 2987929.

GOLF SOCIETY: A group of former pupils of Loreto High School Beaufort in Rathfarnham have set up the Beaufort Past Pupils’ Golf Society. If you are a past pupil or if you know a past pupil who plays golf then they would love to hear from you. Email Bronwyn (nee Byrne) O’Donnell on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or contact her on 0878110962.

SET DANCE: Classes resume in Meadowbrook Leisure Centre (Dundrum Family Recreation Centre) on Friday nights at 8pm. Old friends and new members welcome. For further information contact Kevin on 0861920034.

CHOIR: The Ballinteer Male Voice Choir has reconvened for Thursday night practice sessions. They cover a broad range of musical tastes and events including competitions, festivals, concerts, carol singing and whatever is likely to provide members with fun and craic. New members welcome. Contact Dominic on 0876474629.
 
ANNIVERSARY: With plans to celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2010, Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish Choir (Johnstown/Killiney) is appealing for new members in all lines – soprano, alto, tenor and bass. To become a member you don’t need to be able to read music – but you do need to enjoy singing and have a reasonable voice; be available to attend rehearsals on Thursday nights from 8pm – 9.30pm; and to sing at the Liturgy on Sundays at 11.30am. Also, members are sought for their Gospel Choir. For more details contact Maureen Nightingale on 0872037576.

BRIDGE: Enjoy a sociable game of bridge every Thursday morning at 10am at 52 Grosvenor Road, Rathgar. New members welcome. For further information tel 2984321.

PHOTOGRAPHY: The OffShoot Club meets every Monday night in St Paul's Parish Hall, Glenageary at 8pm. New members of all levels are welcome. Check out the website: www.offshoot.ie or email the committee at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information on joining.

BOULES: Those who may be interested in forming a group/club and playing regularly for one evening a week and a weekend afternoon in Herbert Park, Ballsbridge are urged to get in contact with John O'Grady on 0863478968 or by email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

BADMINTON: Badminton sessions take place in St Declan’s Boys’ School, Nephin Road, Cabra on Saturday mornings from 10am-12midday. All grades welcome. For more information phone 087-9249561.

VOLUNTEERS: Friends of the Elderly, the charity that visits the elderly who live alone is looking for volunteers in the Dublin 7 area. The charity would like to hear from people who enjoy the company of the elderly and can spare an hour a week to visit them. Friends of the Elderly is a registered Irish charity with 240 volunteers in the Dublin area. For more information contact Friends of the Elderly at 8731855 or visit www.friendsoftheelderly.ie

CHARITY RUN: Pieta House, Centre for prevention of Self-harm or Suicide, will be holding its very first Darkness into Light 5k event’ in the Phoenix Park on May 8. This charity event will be open to all participants who are invited to walk or run the 5k route, starting while it is still dark and completing the circuit as dawn is breaking. The Darkness into Light’ theme was chosen to symbolise a transition from hopelessness to hope, thus highlighting the vital work carried out by Pieta House. Registration fee: individual e20, family e30. For further information contact Marie Freeman on 6010000 or visit www.pieta.ie to register.

TALKING: Castleknock Toastmasters Club meets upstairs in Myo's pub in Castleknock on the first and third Thursday of each month. It’s a lively and active club providing an opportunity for overcoming shyness in speaking to an audience and improving existing skills in a comfortable and stimulating environment. Members are welcoming, friendly and sociable. Anyone over 18 is invited to come along to a meeting and observe before deciding to join. For further information ring Jenny O'Halloran on 087-7605422.

YOGA: Sahaja Yoga and meditation takes place on Mondays at 7pm at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown Centre. Sahaja Yoga is a simple method of finding inner peace, it’s easy to learn and always Free. For more information phone 086-2520765 or visit www.sahajayoga.ie

CARERS: The Carers Association will run a one day stress management module in late spring in Blanchardstown for family carers. Application forms are now available. The fee for the module is e10. More information from the Carers Association on 8119555.

GOSPEL CHOIR:  Ballymun Gospel Choir and Band have moved to Holy Spirit Church, Silloge, Ballymun. The celebrated musicians and talented singers bring their brand of gospel, soul and contemporary spiritual music to the west side of Ballymun from now until summer time. A moving uplifting celebration of music and community takes place every Sunday night at 7pm Mass.

WORSHIP: Gospel Hope Gospel Ministries have an exciting worship and praise meeting every Sunday at 6.30pm in the meeting room at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown. Everybody welcome. Phone 086-3207192 for details.

OLD SCOUTS: Were you ever a leader or a member of the 75th/95th East Finglas Scouts? The current leaders are trying to contact former leaders as the unit celebrates 50 years of scouting in Finglas. To mark the occasion a number of events are planned, one of which will be a Mass on Sunday April 11 in St Canice’s Church. Former scouts are invited come along and bring their family. They can also wear their old uniform if they still have it.
Another event is a Black Tie formal dinner on April 17. The current leaders hope to have as many ex members as possible there to help celebrate a great occasion. Tickets are limited. For further details drop into the Scout Den in Finglas Village any Monday Tuesday or Wednesday evening between 7- 8.30. Anybody who knows any ex-members are asked to pass on these details.

SINGERS: Male singers are needed for the Dolce Choir, a Northside mixed based, four part harmony choir which rehearses every Thursday evening from 7.30 to 10pm in Griffith Avenue, near Drumcondra. The choir embraces all ages, is fun, welcoming and challenging. You need to be able to is sing but an ability to read music is not essential. Auditions will be taking place in early February. Musical Director is Deirdre Ni Chaomhanaigh. Text or call, Fran at 087-2425513 if you’re interested.

NORDIC WALKING: A new Nordic Walking group is holding walks in the Phoenix Park every Saturday and Tuesday evening. Originating from summer training for cross-country skiers, Nordic Walking works the upper and lower body at the same time, strengthening back, legs and arms, and reducing neck and shoulder tension. Exercise intensity is determined by upper body effort so people of differing fitness levels can walk and talk together, while working to their own level. Full training available and it’s suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. For further information visit www.nordicwalkers.ie or contact Kathleen on 086-0427989 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

RECOVERY: LifeRing Secular Recovery is a non-profit self help group for people who want to live free of alcohol or other addictive drugs. The group focuses on empowering the sober self within. Members take a strong, active role in their own recovery. This group is not faith-based. LifeRing respects everyone's religious or spiritual beliefs or lack of beliefs. Meetings are a forum to develop an individual recovery plan. Meeting on Tuesdays 6.30pm at Dublin Mission, 9 Lower Abbey Street. For more information email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

VOLUNTEERS: Two CASA youth groups based in the Swords area are currently recruiting volunteers for 2010. CASA is a voluntary organisation established in 1981 to support people with disabilities. CASA offers friendship, respite care and social activities on a one-to-one basis for people with both physical and intellectual disabilities. If you have one Sunday afternoon a month free, and can make a minimum commitment of six months they would love to hear from you. No experience necessary but true enthusiasm and dedication is an asset. Please contact Rebecca by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 087-1260975.

RECOVERY: Recovery Inc is a group for people with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, stress etc. Meetings take place at Blanchardstown Community Centre on Saturdays from 2.30-4.30pm and Fridays from 8-10pm at the Community Centre in Blanchardstown. For more information, please phone 626-0775. All welcome.

VOLUNTEERS: Women's Aid, which provides support, information and referral to accommodation to women and their children who are being physically, emotionally and sexually abused in their own homes is currently seeking volunteers to work on its Dublin based national Freephone helpline. The helpline is open seven days a week 10am-10pm on 1800-341900. If you are warm, a good listener and interested in women’s issues, contact Gisela Boehnisch for an application form on 8684721 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Full training will be provided in January and February 2010.