The heavens opened and delivered a deluge just as the flotilla of boats left Cappoquin to travel downriver to Youghal on Friday evening last as part of the 'Light the Munster Blackwater' event. Undeterred however, they continued their journey, following an old tradition which saw trading vessels picking people and goods up from the quays and delivering them safely to their destinations.

On Friday evening the riverside and quays of Kilavullen, Ardsallagh, Ballinaclash, Coolbagh, Newport, Ballyduff, Cappoquin, Killahaly, Dromana House and Villierstown were lined with people who gathered to celebrate the river that has given so much life to the communities over the years, whether it's the fishermen who for centuries have caught the mighty salmon or the thatcher who gathered spires to give shelter to their families and neighbours.

Chairman of the organising committee Aidan Hallahan, who travelled the river on a boat said "I couldn't believe the large number of people all along the river standing in the wind and rain with their lights. Even when I got to Youghal there was a line of cars parked on the ferry point opposite Youghal town with their headlights and lanterns lighting the way. Every quay and road along the banks had people waving to us. This was a community event unlike so many others. It united so many communities on both sides of the river that don't normally celebrate together."

People in Killavullen turned out in big numbers to light the bridge with tealights in jars, they also released lanterns into the night sky. Ballyduff residents came out in force too, lighting up the landmark red bridge. Their celebrations are said to have continued long into the night. Cappoquin Civic Link put on a great show with lights on the bank there and the local boy scout group lit a campfire. A big crowd assembled at Dromana House where there was a light show. The community in Villierstown had the quay looking well and the Woodland Brownies entertained the crowds with their singing and light show.

In Youghal the local boat club welcomed people on the quay where there were bonfires and barbecues. There was entertainment in their clubhouse and craic until late. Boats and visitors from Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club joined the flotilla along with other boats up and down the river.

The event was considered a great success, so much so that the organisers, who thanked everyone for their involvement, are thinking of making it an annual event.

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