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EXCLUSIVE

By Sean Moriarty

A kind-hearted Rathmore publican is re-opening his closed down pub so those in need can enjoy a proper Christmas dinner next week.

Jeff Gordon, who ran Connie K’s pub in the village, will continue a Christmas tradition he started three years ago despite closing his pub in May this year.

His service to families and individuals in need will operate from December 23 until December 25. He will offer either a sit in meal in the pub, or a discreet collection and delivery service so those in who can’t afford to put a proper Christmas dinner on the table will not go without.

Last year 19 people, ranging from elderly people to those living on their own and a family, sat down to Christmas dinner.

His collection service, which will run this year from Monday through to Christmas Day itself looked after the needs of between 50 and 55 people.

His delivery service run covers from Glenbeigh to Listowel and last year he either prepared or supplied the contents of 40 meals in that wide area.

“The pub closed for many reasons affecting rural pubs but there was no way my conscience would allow me to sit down to my own Christmas dinner without thinking of those we helped over the last three years,” Jeff, who offers a very discreet service, told the Killarney Advertiser.

Last year he met a Glenbeigh woman at 7.30am on Christmas Eve outside the Red Fox Inn where he presented her with enough food to prepare a proper dinner.

“By the time she got back to Glenbeigh she looked like someone who was returning from doing her Christmas shopping,” Jeff added. “I am trying to help those who are struggling, those who are doing their best to hold on to their house but with the additional strains of Santy they might not have enough money for Christmas dinner.”

Anyone who needs help can call Jeff on 087 9534944 in the strictest confidence.