There is profound sadness in Granard and throughout the entire area this week following the death of community stalwart, Carmel Fay.

A member of the famous horse racing Berry Family, Carmel was known throughout the country and was much loved publican and former town councillor in Granard. Just last May, her contribution to the north Longford community, which she loved, was recognised when she was awarded the Granard person of the Year 2012.

Originally from Dring, a few miles outside Granard, and a member of the Berry family who hold close connections to the international showjumping world, Carmel became deeply involved in the Granard community when she and her husband Paul bought Fay's Bar in 1981.

"Carmel settled in Granard and became very involved in the community," Cllr PJ Reilly said. "She was a big fan of St Mary's GAA club and was always organising fundraising events for the club. She became deeply involved with the County Board and with knowledge and experience of the horse industry - she was fundamental to the planning of the Longford Race Day in Punchestown."

Aside from being a smiling, friendly face at Fay's Bar, Carmel was a well-known Fianna Fail Town Councillor in Granard- a part of her life that spanned nearly 15 years before her retirement in 2009. Mayor of Granard, Cllr Maura Kilbride Harkin paid tribute to Carmel Fay this week. She said that Carmel held the community close to her heart.

"Carmel Fay will be sorely missed in Granard," she added. "She was decent and respectful, and involved in everything. She was held in the highest of esteem here in Granard, and I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Paul and the family. May she Rest in Peace."

Coutesy of The Longford Reader Tweet

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