Big excitement as D'Alton Park residents head to Emerald Park

The wet weather failed to dampen the spirits of the 200 or so residents of D'Alton Park who congregated outside the Riverside Centre this morning ahead of their excursion to Emerald Park.

Organised by the estate's residents association, the outing to the Emerald Park is the first official day trip since the pandemic brought normal activities to a halt for a few years. The cost of the trip is partially covered by funding from the Rapid Programme, with residents covering the rest.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner before their departure, residents association chair Pat Grimes said that the trip has been a source of huge excitement in recent weeks for residents, young and not so young.

“Everyone was really look forward to the trip. We have one woman who is in her 80s and she loves going on the Cú Chulainn roller-coaster.

“Days like this are great and everyone loves them, but there is a great community spirit all year round in D'Alton Park. The residents association are delighted to be able organise something like this for their neighbours. We'd like to thank Rapid for the funding and the Community Policing Unit in Mullingar for their help and support too,” Mr Grimes said.