GOREY DETAILS

Population:13,000 (includes Gorey town and environs).

Employment:no major industrial employer; most local jobs are in services/retail sector.

Hospitals:a 26-bed district hospital provides respite, convalescence and palliative care. The main hospital is Wexford General Hospital (32 miles).

Education:four primary schools, including a Gaelscoil, in the town, others nearby) but only one secondary - Gorey Community established in 1993, following the amalgamation of the Loreto, Vocational and CBS schools.

Culture:renowned Little Theatre Group for amateur dramatics; choral group, musical society; annual Byrne/Perry Summer School attracts an impressive range of speakers. Closest cinema Enniscorthy (18 miles). Children's attractions include Pirates Cove Adventure Park at Courtown.

Sport:wide range from GAA, soccer and rugby clubs to tennis, boxing and sailing. Golfers are spoiled for choice with five courses, including the recently opened Seafield Golf & Country Club at Ballymoney.

Spend:good mix of shops, restaurants (including Oriental, Italian and posh dining at Marlfield House); spa at new Amber Springs Hotel.

Best aspects:close to some of the country's best beaches; easy access to Wicklow National Parks; strong community spirit; "New 2 Gorey" group gives support to new arrivals.

Main issue:further expansion of town "on hold" until sewage system upgraded, expanded.

Websites:www.wexford.ie; www.northwexford.com

Radio:South East Radio 96.2 fm