Over 80 events in Meath for Heritage Week

Meet the Normans and take part in a community archaeology dig in Trim, go wild in the woods at Balrath and Julianstown, learn about Navan’s industrial past, enjoy a falconry display on the Hill of Tara, remember Philip Clarke who died in the 1916 Rising, learn about Joseph Mary Plunkett and the Dunsany connection, experience living history displays at the Battle of Kells Medieval Fayre and at the Battle of the Boyne Site, or free admission to OPW sites. These are just some of the activities you can engage in during Heritage Week in Meath.

National Heritage Week 2016 takes place from Saturday 20th to Sunday 28th August and numerous organisations, local groups and individuals will be hosting events that celebrate the rich heritage of County Meath. As we reflect on the centenary of the rebellion of Easter 1916, we want to encourage everyone to connect with their history and heritage and celebrate the relationship between people and place. With over 80 events taking place throughout the county including walks, talks, exhibitions, family fun days and living history displays there is literally something for everyone. Most of these events are free and many are suitable for children.

‘Heritage Week is a fantastic celebration of our wonderful natural and cultural heritage and offers everyone the opportunity to get out, explore and enjoy their local area’ said Loreto Guinan, Meath Heritage Officer.

For full details of all events taking place in Meath throughout the week pick up your County Meath Heritage Week Event Guide from your local library, Council Office, Heritage Centre or Tourist Office or online at www.meathcoco.ie/heritage or www.heritageweek.ie

Meath West TD, Damien English, said: 'I want to highlight the importance of Heritage Week to the ongoing cultural, heritage, tourism and recreational life of Meath, and urge people to support its many free events this August. I also want to commend the many volunteers, local community and parish organisations as well as private and public sector sponsors involved in making it happen. 

'In particular I want to highlight the Heritage Week open days at Agher Church. The Irish Georgian Society fundraised for the conservation of the Thomas Jervais window at Agher.  Locals and visitors to the area will have a rare opportunity to visit the church to see this wonderful, rare example of enamelled 18th century stained glass, as well as view Agher Church which is an important part of the local community in the wider Agher/Summerhill area' stated Minister English.

'In early 2015 I was delighted to hear from Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys that Agher Church was one of 28 heritage structures across the country that would benefit from the Structures at Risk Fund 2015. Agher Church received €15,000.

At the time I highlighted that the preservation of heritage structures like Agher Church was very important for our pride of place. The then Chairman of Trim Municipal Council, Cllr Joe Fox, joined me in welcoming this funding in 2015, and also urges support for the open days this August' concluded Minister English.

Songs of Praise & Open Afternoon at Agher Church 24th August, 12pm to 5pm.