Over €25k raised for Pullough school on its 90th anniversary

By Rebekah O'Reilly

St Mary’s National School in Pullough celebrated a major milestone in style as hundreds of supporters came together for The Bog Walk, raising an impressive €25,078 by the end of the event.

The community fundraiser, organised to mark the school’s 90th academic year, saw walkers, runners, families, friends, neighbours and past pupils take part in the 25km challenge through some of Offaly’s most scenic landscapes.

Organisers described the support received as “unbelievable” and thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the day.

“A massive thank you to our teams who fundraised, to everyone who has donated, and to our wonderful sponsors. “Community spirit was at its very best," they said.

The Bog Walk route took participants along the Grand Canal Greenway, through Turraun Wetlands and around Lough Boora Discovery Park before returning to Pullough. While some participants completed the full 25km course, others took part as relay teams or joined supporters cheering on walkers and runners.

The efforts of the committee and volunteers who worked behind the scenes to bring the event together were praised.

“The Bog Walk is more than just 25km. It’s a celebration of 90 years of St Mary’s NS, Pullough and a way of showing our support for current and future pupils of the school," organisers said.

The fundraiser was organised to support improvements to school facilities and resources while also celebrating the history and heritage of St Mary’s over the past nine decades.

Donations remain open through the event’s online fundraising page, with organisers expressing their gratitude to everyone who has donated, sponsored a kilometre, provided sponsorship or taken part in any way.

The successful event concluded with celebrations back at the school, marking a memorable day for the Pullough community and a fitting tribute to 90 years of St Mary’s National School.