Singing priest slams pump thieves

Fr Ray Kelly has called for the safe return of a 140-year-old water pump to the village of Oldcastle.

The Tyrrellspass man who is the parish priest in the area, talked of upset on hearing of the theft.

He has appealed to whoever the culprits are to return or leave the water pump somewhere so that the village can have it brought back in good condition.

The pump was stolen from Knocklough, Drumone, in Oldcastle.

The community were planning a ‘’Hooley at the Cross’’ in two weeks’ time, with a BBQ and music so it would be a very special day if the water pump was returned by then," commented Fr Ray.

It is understood there is a reward being offered for the safe return of the pump, which was collected by the local people in Drumone.

Local Sinn Fein TD Johnny Guirke said the local community had worked very hard over the last number of years renovating the spot where the water pump was, erecting a small wall surrounding it which was still working at the time of the theft.

It has left locals "angered and disgusted that this could happen".

It is not an isolated incident as just a few weeks ago, it is understood another pump was stolen from Ballycomoyle, here in Westmeath.

"We need to raise awareness for other towns and villages, so these thefts don’t reoccur," he continued.

"I would appeal to anyone with information, to please pass on to the Garda at Kells Garda station on 046 – 9240999.

Below: a photo of the-year-old pump stolen from Drumone, Oldcastle.