By Michelle Crean

There was a fantastic festive atmosphere in Barraduff on Friday night as up to 70 locals turned out to light up the village for Christmas.

Kathleen Cronin (left) with Santa Clause and Kathleen Healy attending the switching on of the Christmas lights in Barraduff last Friday. Photo: Seamus Healy

Oisin O'Connell and his brother Cian delighted meeting Santa Clause in Barraduff last Friday at the switching on of the Christmas lights. Photo: Seamus Healy

Shane Doyle and Ciara Horgan with their children Saoirse Aaron and Kayla at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Barraduff last Friday. Photo: Seamus Healy

Local Garda Declan Leader managed to catch Santa so the boys and girls had a great time quizzing him about what he'll be bringing to them on Christmas night! Christmas carols added to the occasion as local school children sang their hearts out with music also by the very talented Rosie Healy.

Killarney Mayor Niall Kelleher did the honours and switched the lights on while Fr Lenihan blessed the Christmas Memorial tree at the church.

The event was organised by the local Tidy Towns group which has approximately 15 members. They have been doing it for five or six years pre-pandemic.

"We haven't had it in two years [due to COVID]," Stuart Kelly, Chairperson of the Tidy Towns group, told the Killarney Advertiser.

"Six years ago we decided to put a Christmas tree and lights up. Residents put up lights also. Kerry County Council and the Community Support Fund allowed us to get new lights this year. We have a memory tree at the church and hearts are €5 with proceeds going back into the village and we'll say a special memorial Mass after Christmas."

He added a huge thanks to the residents for their support as well as Fr Lenihan and their local shop keeper.

"Michael O'Donoghue Costcutter powers the tree and the church powers the memory tree," Stuart said.

He added that there's a fundraising table quiz on December 27 at 8pm sharp in John Dan's and everyone is welcome.