Clonbonny artist's Christmas cards feature iconic Athlone landmarks

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Clonbonny artist Frank Sammon has sketched four iconic Athlone scenes for his 2024 Athlone Community Radio Christmas cards.

Hand-sketched with coloured pencil, The Friary, the new cycleway bridge with St. Peter’s Church in the background, the town bridge, and Main St are all featured in the pack of eight cards.

"Interest has been quite good so far. I think with The Friary closing, people are interested in getting their hands on that card," Frank said.

"To contrast with the new bridge, I wanted to include the town bridge that everyone is used to. And, of course, the Main St area below the castle is always very busy coming into the Christmas season."

The proceeds of the cards are set to be donated to Athlone Community Radio, which Frank calls "a vital source of information, entertainment, and community engagement in the Athlone area."

Frank has previously done two Christmas card collections to raise money for the not-for-profit radio station.

"I think Athlone Community Radio is important because it gives a voice to people who wouldn't have a place to tell their story otherwise."

The cards are priced at €10 for a pack of eight, and can be purchased at https://athlonecommunityradio.ie/christmascards2024/