Joe Sheridan Memorial 5k for St Vincent de Paul, at Belvedere

Laura Gannon, daughter of the late Joe Sheridan, and speaking on behalf of her family was delighted with how the 5k run and walk held in his honour on Saturday went.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner in the sunshine at Belvedere House and Gardens, Laura explained the background to the event, which was down to Joe’s devotion to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

“Joe was proprietor of the Roadhouse and we’re marking his first year anniversary – he died on May 28 last year – and we wanted to do something, as St Vincent de Paul was a charity very close to his heart,” said Laura.

“He was an active member and he liked the kind, quiet, practical support that St Vincent de Paul gives. He was quite like that himself – very empathetic, non-judgemental and kind to people, so we just wanted to do this to mark his first anniversary.

“It’s great to see everyone here, his family, a wide circle of friends from all over, and even at the Mass last week, there were people from Europe and the UK. It’s just nice to do something positive and keep alive the memory of his good nature and good spirit.

“I want to say a huge thank-you to the staff of Belvedere House and Gardens, to the Order of Malta, to Damien Moran at Moran Signs for the signs and posters, for all the help from family and friends, and to the huge number of people that turned out today

“The amount of money we’ve raised has exceeded our expectations. At the moment it’s about €6000 that we’ll be donating to St Vincent de Paul in Mullingar, so a huge thanks to everyone who came out today, because without them, it wouldn’t have happened.”