A new end of year publication by Westmeath Independent

Christmas Cheer is a new publication by the Westmeath Independent and Westmeath Examiner that's out now.

With great writing, stellar interviews and lots to keep the family entertained, it's a perfect festive accompaniment for every household in the area.

We talk to Niamh Algar, Westmeath’s rising star of the screen, about her year just gone and her plans for 2021.

Local magician Aidan Murphy tells us how he has embraced TikTok, Manchan Magan explains why we should be wowed by the Irish language and Fr Ray Kelly, from Dancing With The Stars, remembers his Westmeath childhood Christmases.

Renowned chef Richard Corrigan reveals some of his favourite seasonal recipes, and we highlight the best in festive TV, on demand and music.

Find out about Westmeath's very own Bethlehem on the shores of Lough Ree or read Westmeath Independent's popular columnist Jean Farrell as she reflects on how the demands of and aspirations for Christmas change as one moves through life.

And Christmas Cheer is packed full of nostalgia and reflections on times past, including a special on the 80th anniversary of the burning of Athlone Woollen Mills, a feature on the county's Victorian Cross heroes and the story of how a local councillor died following a shooting by the Black and Tans.

In sport, we assess the impact of Páidí Ó Sé on Westmeath football through the eyes of two men who were part of that sensational voyage and there's the remarkable story of the five Athlone Town players who made Irish sporting history in Paris.

TR Dallas looks back 40 years to the tv programme that changed his career and there's puzzles, a giant Christmas quiz, the best in picture books for children, short stories, creative writing, and so much more, all packed into 80 pages.

On sale now, price €3.95.

Pick up your Christmas Cheer today.