GIVEN the resounding success of the Newcestown Film Awards held at the Rochestown Park Hotel, it’s safe to say that as well as boasting hurling and football talent, the parish has also unearthed some hidden acting talent as well.

The film awards were organised to help fundraise for two key projects in the community: lighting the community walkway and building a new gym facility.

The great news is that over €150,000 profit was raised from the event that attracted 600 people to a memorable awards night.

Over 100 people volunteered to take part in the filming of eight films ranging from The Field and The Snapper to Calendar Girls and Baby Reindeer. As well as rehearsing and starring in the films, each group had to organise a series of fundraising events ahead of the gala screening.

Local businesses came on board by means of sponsoring packages while Platinum sponsors included MJ Kelleher Oils, MyCore Supplements, Cronin’s Coaches and The Moo Crew (a collective of over 30 Newcestown farmers who contributed over €11,0000 to the project).

Enjoying the awards were Róisín O'Neill, Majella Dinneen and Carmel O’Mahony.

There were also a further 15 film sponsors and 21 award sponsors as well as a large number of digital advertisers.

Speaking to The Southern Star, organising committee member Orla Dinneen said what began as an ambitious idea grew into a truly unforgettable journey for the community.

‘It has brought the community together in a unique way and will be remembered for years to come. We want to thank everybody who contributed to the success of this initiative,’ Orla said.

‘We also want to thank the amazing cast members and the dedicated committee whose time, effort and enthusiasm made this event possible. We also want to thank our judges, sponsors and Kevin Rowe Events for making it such a success.’

Orla said a special thank has to go to the wider community as well who contributed to the fundraising events over the past few months.

Paula O'Callaghan, Aileen Bradfield, Shelly Cuskely and Orla Bradfield all starred in Calendar Girls.

‘To those who donated, supported, promoted and attended the large number of fundraisers your contribution in whatever form it came on made a real difference.'

Judges on the night included Hilary Rose (The Young Offenders), Dixie Collins and sports pundit Sarah O’Donovan.

Award winners included Best Actor, Niall Cronin (The Snapper); Best Actress, Catherine Murphy (Baby Reindeer); Rising Star, Ronan Desmond (The Snapper); People’s Choice Film, The Full Monty; Highest Grossing Film, The First Wives Club; Best Supporting Actor, Tommy Crowley (The Field); Best Supporting Female Actor, Roisin O’Neill (First Wives Club), and Best Comedic Actor, Tomás Ryan (Father Ted).