Team cleared fallen trees so Killua Castle market could go ahead after Storm Darragh

Killua Castle Christmas Fair

Article and photos and video by Jay G Forde

Storm Darragh and the havoc he caused across north Westmeath in the form power outages and blocked roads wasn’t strong enough to stop the Killua Castles Christmas Fair going ahead on Saturday.

The aftermath of the storm had threatened cancellation of the event, but the resilience of the Killua castle team and the local community ensured the day was a success.

“I’m very stubborn,” Allen Sangines-Krause told the Westmeath Examiner on Saturday, “so last night with storm Darragh, at 3 in the morning we lost power, and it hasn’t returned yet, but we got the generator going this morning – but we have no internet and had four trees blocking the road.”

Allen, the event’s determined organiser and owner of Killua Castle, wasn’t going to let those difficulties ruin the day: “I was very keen on making sure the Killua Fair would go on. I think it’s only fair for the children, for the vendors and for the community.”

“With the roads blocked, I hopped on a tractor and with the team we cleared the trees,” he said.

The hard work paid off as the guests were welcomed and enjoyed the day – one remarked: “It’s a lovely venue and a wonderful Christmas experience.”

Stalls were selling handmade crafts, festive treats, and local products. Families enjoyed the holiday atmosphere and a visit to see Santa, and vendors and attendees both praised the event.

Though the storm added an unexpected twist to the preparations, the spirit of the season shone brightly at Killua Castle.