Special guests to light Mountmellick Christmas Tree

TWO special guests will light up the Mountmellick Christmas Tree this Friday, when a remarkable mother and son will spread festive cheer throughout ‘the little town with a big heart’.

Family Carer of the Year 2024 Sarah Dooley and her son Cathal Houlihan, Hero Forever, will switch on the lights at 7pm at a community gathering in O’Connell Square.

Heralding the joyful news today, the Mountmellick Christmas Tree committee said: ‘We are thrilled to share that the 2026 Community Christmas Tree will be lit by two very special people.

‘Sarah is a mother of four from Mountmellick whose courage, kindness and unstoppable determination have inspired people far beyond Mountmellick. Herself and her partner, Cathal senior, have faced enormous challenges, yet they never stop advocating and never stop showing what resilience really looks like.

‘Cathal junior’s own bravery and good humour have been just as remarkable. Together, they have shown what is important in life: family, health and being together.’ 

The committee added on its Facebook page: ‘When we asked them to press the button this year, they didn’t hesitate for a moment. Their spirit is a lesson for all of us, especially here in Mountmellick where we know hardship only too well.

‘We have faced many challenges, including the recent risk of flooding, yet we keep coming together, we keep looking out for one another and we keep fighting.

‘So, as Sarah and Cathal light up our Christmas Tree, please remember that this season can feel heavy for some. Not everyone loves Christmas and many will carry loneliness, worry or the ache of loss. Let the light remind us to look out for one another, to be kind and to make space for those who need a little extra care this time of year.

‘Finally, from all of us volunteers to all of you, may your Christmas be peaceful, and your new year filled with good health and happiness.’