Rules introduced two years ago could spell the end of traditional open fireplaces, writes Claire O'Sullivan of the Irish Examiner.

Traditional open fireplaces will become a thing of the past, or else a luxury item, under little-known building regulations.

Peggy Mangan and her dog Casper had one last outing together along the short road and quiet avenue between the church where they were mourned and the cemetery where they were laid to rest.

Ciarán Ó Lionáird got his Olympic campaign back on track at Cork City Sports last night when he finished fifth of five athletes to go under four minutes in the featured Cork Airport Men’s Mile, which was won by Ryan Gregson (Australia) with a perfectly executed 3:57.98.

DECLAN COPPINGER puts out fires for a living, but this afternoon he and his charges from Clonakilty RFC hope their endeavours might just be the cause of a few.

St Brogan’s, Bandon 0-11Clonakilty CC 1-5

THIS All-Ireland Vocational Schools SFC B final turned out to be a titanic struggle at a windswept Cashel yesterday when the gale, blowing straight down the field throughout, was a major factor in the outcome.

A WEEKEND holding out so much promise for Clare opened on the brightest possible note at Galway yesterday when Woodstock captured their first national pennant with a convincing Pierce Purcell Shield final victory over Moyola Park from Co Derry.

THE GOLFERS of Woodstock Golf Club near Ennis are poised to get a memorable weekend for Clare off to the best possible start.