Avondhu Blackwater Partnership last week contributed towards the enhancement of the newly created Mallow Rebel Trail by donating €1500 towards the painting of an impressive mural depicting life in Mallow at the turn of the last century. The work of art, which is located on the gable end of Fitzpatrick’s Jewellers at the base of O’Brien Street, is a centrepiece of the Rebel Trail and according to creator Liam Mannix is designed to “add to the immersive experience of the Rebel Trail by showing people what has changed in the town since the time of the War of Independence and Civil War. Another role was to present to visitors an impression that Mallow was an old place, a place full of history and meaning”.

In this capacity Avondhu Blackwater Partnership were delighted to be able to make a contribution to the mural, and according to company CEO Valerie Murphy it is a worthwhile project. “The heritage of the Blackwater Valley is an untapped source of potential revenue that we recently sought to address with the launch of the Blackwater Valley Heritage Trail. So it is with great delight that we welcome the Mallow Rebel Trail, which adds to the range of tourist options available in the region. The Rebel Trail shines a light on an aspect of local history that has not always been fully discussed. Mallow is steeped in history and the creation of the mural, which we were proud to be able to contribute towards, will add to the whole experience”.

Cllr. John Paul O’Shea of Mallow Development Partnership was delighted to receive the €1500 contribution from Avondhu Blackwater Partnership and following the presentation he commended the company on the contribution, and for the recent efforts to create a unique tourism product for the region. He commented, “Thanks again for the meeting last night and in particular for the input the staff at Avondhu Blackwater Partnership put into it. It was very successful and hopefully now we can all move on further again from this, and I have no doubt you won’t be found wanting in this regard”.