Xmas 2024

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the town,

Not a Legend was stirring—not even Sean Heron!

The cartoon costumes were hung by the chimneys with care,

In hopes that Bungle soon would be there.

The Legends were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of Pete Mulligan’s treats danced in their heads.

And Ronnie in his snazzy attire and Deano flying his kite,

Big Burnsie was ready for a boozy old night.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

Ken Whan sprang from his bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window, Mucker flew like a flash,

And wee Moods tore open the shutters with a crash.

The moon on the snow cast a magical glow,

Like John Hawe himself had touched the world below.

When, what to Waddell’s wide eyes should appear,

But a sleigh pulled by Neesie, with Richie at the rear!

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

McCourt shouted aloud, “It’s Bungle Cow’s Lick!”

More rapid than Stuarty and Clydie they came,

Big Boo whistled and shouted, and called them by name:

“Now, Stevie! Now, Ginge! Now, Bucky and Scobie!

On Turk! On Chris! On Strolls and Soupy!

To the top of the Town, to the top of the mall,

Dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”

So ‘round the pubs the Legends flew,

With a sleigh full of beer—and Aidy Downey too.

And then, in a twinkling, Turk heard on the roof,

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As ryan mitchell drew in his head, and was turning around,

Down the cut Andy ervine came with a bound.

Fraggle was dressed in fur, from his head to his boot,

Looking like Liam Fegan after trekking through soot.

A bundle of shots, Greener slung on his back,

While Rory Hill swaggered, ready to crack.

Jake McCreanor’s eyes—oh, how they twinkled!

Strolls’ dimples so merry, his laugh never wrinkled.

Toot’s cheeks glowed like apples so bright,

And Paul McGerrigan’s beard shimmered pure white.

And I couldn’t help but laugh in spite of myself.

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon let me know we’d nothing to dread.

“At last!” cried the Legends, “We can party again!”

And laughter rang out from every old friend.

The reason was clear, and no need for permission:

To rip the arse out of this festive tradition!

Then Bungle sprang up, his pint held high,

“Here’s to the Legends—our spirits won’t die!”

“Ho, ho, ho!” he roared, “Who loves you, baby?”

Now drink away, drink away—go on, go crazy!”

Happy Christmas to you all, and to all have wonderful fun filled night!