Laois Macra members are big winners in national writing competition

Macra members from Laois have been recognised for their writing skills in the organisation's National Creative Writing Competition.

Two Laois Macra members were announced as winners during the final of the competition which took place online on Friday, January 23.

Sylvester Phelan is a member of Ard Eireann Macra which covers Mountrath, Camross, Castletown, Ballyfin, Borris in Ossory and surrounding areas. Sylvester won first place in the poetry category for his poem The Little Child is Dying.

Niamh Feighery from Mountmellick Macra came in Joint third place in the Short Story category with her story Moo-ving Hearts and Healing Hooves.

READ NEXT: PICTURES: Goahead to turn old Laois schoolhouse into social homes

Judges noted the exceptionally high standard of entries, making the task of selecting winners particularly challenging.

"The competition showcased the depth of creative talent within the organisation, with strong participation from Macra members across the country in both poetry and short story categories," said a Macra spokesperson.

"Macra wishes to congratulate all winners and participants for their creativity and commitment, and thank the judges for their careful consideration of a very strong field of entries."