Health, legacy and community determination — retired Portlaoise Hospital consultant Peter Naughton reflects on the hard-fought creation of Laois’ pioneering cancer support services in a new book, as the region edges closer to long-promised hospice care.

Crime, grief and justice in focus — the father of murdered four-year-old Tadhg Farrell asks to be sentenced in a major drugs case as Gardaí continue investigating the deadly Edenderry petrol-bomb attack, keeping organised crime firmly in the spotlight.

Community action, hope and connection — Tullamore Tidy Towns vows to name and shame litter offenders; Killeshin GAA’s Paul Brennan and Miriam O’Callaghan promote a Pieta fundraiser built on resilience and support; and grassroots groups from Edenderry to Offaly U3A showcase the power of local connection.