Search for the missing sheep in big Offaly town – and win a prize

SPOT any sheep in a strange place around Tullamore? If you did, you could win a toy for Christmas!

St Catherine's Church has come up with the novel idea of a Nativity Sheep Trail in the run-up to Christmas, using sheep – small knitted ones – as an incentive to children to take part.

Booklets have been distributed to schools inviting children to spot the knitted sheep hiding in shop windows across town.

Each sheep has a name and children are challenged to find them all, write down their names, and return their completed booklets to the Charleville Centre. All entries will go into a draw for a chance to win vouchers for Kelly’s Toy Shop.

A church spokesperson said: "We are enormously grateful to the talented volunteers who knitted the beautiful sheep and the local shops hosting them. This initiative would not be possible without their support. If your child missed getting a booklet, they are available in participating shops or at the Charleville Centre. We hope this brings joy to families in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Happy sheep finding!"

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The Advent project is in the spirit of 'Messy Church', which is a response to a deep reflection on the local church's vision for the future, with a specific focus on how best to serve children and families in the community.

The church says a key part of this ministry is the monthly 'Messy Church', a gathering designed for children, ideally up to age ten, and their families. It is a time for parents, grandparents, and children to come together for Bible stories, arts and crafts, games, songs, and shared hospitality over food.