Over 20 members met in Tramore on Thursday, 18th June, for a guided walk. Our guide was Milo Walsh, a member of Waterford RTAI. The weather forecast wasn’t good but we were hopeful it would improve. Before the start of the walk we were glad to take shelter and enjoy tea/coffee and scones in the Sandcastle Cafe on the promenade in the hope that the rain would blow over.
We eventually set off on our journey but unfortunately the heavens opened and the rain came down in torrents. It was wisely decided to retreat to the local library where Milo introduced the group to the prominent families who lived in Tramore – the Jacob biscuit family, the Paddy Power bookmaker family and the Denny meats family. He spoke about Tramore Bay and the Brownstown and Newtown Headlands and showed us a volcanic stone that can be found on the beach. These stones have a hole in their centre and can be threaded into bracelets and necklaces. He explained that the racecourse and golf course were relocated due to flooding in the dunes area. The Grand Hotel had a varied history, was derelict for over 20 years, and is now being converted to an Aparthotel.
He referred to the worst local sea tragedy when the “Seahorse” sank, in 1816, with the loss of over 300 lives. When Waterford Crystal was established its seahorse logo was inspired by this tragedy.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to do a walk around the town or do the Doneraile walk from the Old Coastguard Station. Thanks to Milo for a very interesting talk and for improvising at such short notice.
Following Milo’s talk we enjoyed a very tasty lunch in the Vee Cafe and Bistro and despite the weather we enjoyed the day.
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