By Sean Moriarty

One lucky Glenflesk resident could be the new owner of the perfect nativity scene prop just time for Christmas.

St Aghtha’s Church in the parish of Glenflesk is badly in need of a new roof.

The annual Parish Christmas Bazaar takes place on November 20 as a fundraiser for the roof.

The usual list of festive fayre-like food hampers are up for raffle on the day but punters will also have the opportunity to bid for a baby donkey named ‘Conín’.

Now ‘Conín’ is no ordinary donkey.

His name comes from Gaelic meaning ‘hound’ and with the suffix - 'in' - added, it means ‘little warrior'.

Auctioning ‘Conín’ is the brainchild of local parish priest Fr Jim Lenihan who has played a very active role in his community.

“Conín was born at Easter time, and was born a mischievous little donkey, but with the influence of Fr Jim and endeavours of his parish, we are confident that Conín will mend the error of his ways, and be the best little donkey that ever was born,” said organiser Margaret Duggan.

The baby donkey was donated by her brother Michael Duggan of 'Glebe Farm' in Aghadoe.

He will deliver the donkey and supply 10 bales of quality hay to settle baby ‘Conín' in his new home. The winning bidder will have to be able to show evidence they can care for the donkey but it is hoped that Conín will stay local and will become part of the folklore of the village.

“The donkey will remain part of the weekly parish newsletter for the youth, and his story will be told and his interaction with the community will grow with Fr Jim and the parish. Both Fr Jim and ‘Conín' will be an integral part of the Glenflesk Community,” added Margaret.

Tickets are being distributed this week to local households for donations.

“We want people to know well in advance so that if a bidder is interested they can contact Fr Jim to register their interest and state their ability to care for ‘Conin’. Conín’ will be part of the Christmas and Easter events within the parish from now on, and his story and photos and will be part of the weekly Mass, and the parish Facebook page will update the story of ‘Conín' so all can remain involved,” she added.