There have been a lot of great nights in The Greenwood Inn, Ardpatrick and last Tuesday was another. Regrettably, the occasion marked the formal end of dancing at this landmark venue.

John and Mary Quilty returned from New York in 1971 having spent 12 successful years in The Big Apple. They identified The Greenwood Inn as a suitable match to their skills set and enthusiastically embarked on a project to turn the rural bar into a major entertainment centre. Through exceptionally hard work, they succeeded and 'The Inn' became known far and wide as a ballroom of romance. At its peak, it drew capacity crowds and big name bands, all of whom enjoyed the trademark hospitality of the Quiltys.

Unfortunately, the pub trade in Ireland has been a major casualty of the economic downturn - this, allied to changes in socializing habits has necessitated the closure of the dance hall. It is important to stress however that The Greenwood Inn will continue to trade and is still very much open for business. Speaking at last Tuesday night's farewell party, John Quilty said he was overwhelmed by the goodwill of patrons.

"When I look around here this evening I see so many friends and acquaintances, I was hoping that the dancing would go out on a high note but I never thought there were would be this kind of crowd. I know a lot of people have put a huge amount of work into tonight and I especially want to thank Matt (O'Callaghan) who has been very good to us over the year. The gifts and presentations are gratefully appreciated and again a sincere word of thanks to everyone who was involved" he said.

As referred to by John, things certainly did go out on a high with a top class line up performing for several hours, among those who took to the stage were: Dermot Lyons, Michael Collins, Declan Aungier, Brendan & Patsy Lee along with Caitriona and High Country.

The aforementioned Matt O'Callaghan from Glenroe did a first rate job as MC. Former greats of the Irish entertainment scene like Mick Delahunty and Johnny Barrett were remembered and there was a minute's silence for the late Michael Ryan who was such a loyal patron of The Greenwood Inn. John's grandsons, Declan, Conor and Aidan Gilligan presented him with a garden spade while Mary Crowley, representing customers of The Greenwood Inn, made a presentation to Mary Quilty.

Their daughter, Teresa Gilligan made a presentation to long serving bar man, John Lynch. The Quiltys also received a €600 hotel voucher from Margaret Sheedy (Shanballymore) who was one of the farewell night organizing committee. Margaret and her husband have supported the Quiltys since 1971. Margaret was also responsible for creating a magnificent 3 tier cake which was ceremonially cut be the proprietors.

During what was a night of celebration, there was a tear or two shed for the many memories that are left behind with the closing of the famous ballroom of romance in The Greenwood Inn, Ardpatrick.

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