Local Notes: All the latest news from Claremorris
The host of RTÉ's Late Late Show, Patrick Kielty, was the special guest at the official opening last Friday of the Joe and Helen O'Toole Respite Home, which is part of Marian House Alzheimer's facility in Ballindine. He is pictured with Mattie O'Toole (Trustee, Joe and Helen O'Toole Charitable Trust) and Theresa Harrison (sister of the late Joe O'Toole). Picture: Conor McKeown
The team at Gilligan’s Bar in Claremorris has presented an extraordinary donation of €25,220, raised through a series of heartfelt fundraising events in memory of Martin Gilligan. The proceeds will go directly towards supporting vital palliative care services across Mayo and Roscommon.
The fundraising efforts included a lively Table Quiz Night and a well-attended Coffee Morning, both hosted at Gilligan’s Bar. The centrepiece of the initiative was the Croagh Patrick Emergency Services Climb, held on June 7th, which brought together members of the Irish Air Corps, An Garda Síochána, Mayo Fire Service, Search and Rescue teams, paramedics, nurses, as well as Martin’s family and friends.
The climb was a powerful tribute, with participants united in remembrance and solidarity, honouring Martin’s memory in an inspiring show of strength and community spirit.
Organisers extended sincere thanks to Olive, Lorraine, Paul, and the wider Gilligan family, along with everyone at the bar and all who contributed or took part in any way.
The outstanding generosity of the Claremorris community will help ensure continued support for individuals and families in need of palliative care services throughout the region.
Preparations continue for the 105th Claremorris Agricultural Show and Trade Fair, taking place on Sunday, August 3rd.
Marking 121 years since the first show was held in Hollymount, arrangements for this year’s event are well advanced with a dynamic and inclusive programme on offer.
From its earliest days as a showcase of livestock and local crafts to the sprawling, multi-faceted celebration it is today, the Claremorris Show has always evolved with the times. And 2025 is no exception. While the core of the event still revolves around agricultural excellence and community talent, this year brings with it a significant digital innovation: the launch of Virtual Class 501, a new landscape photography competition opens to participants from across Ireland and around the world.
“Now you can take part in our show from here or anywhere,” organisers said, “by entering your landscape photographs via your smartphone or other device.”
Entrants to the Virtual Landscape Photography Class 501 will compete for a given prize fund, with the winning images displayed as part of the broader show exhibition. Full rules, prize details, and easy-to-follow entry steps are available through the Virtual Class 501 portal on the official website, www.claremorrisshow.com.
The introduction of a virtual competition reflects a wider effort by the show committee to make the Claremorris Show more accessible, creative, and forward-thinking.
That inclusive spirit runs through every aspect of the 2025 programme, which features over 275 classes ranging from livestock and home produce to arts, crafts, and horticulture. The ever-popular dog show returns, alongside vintage displays, children’s entertainment, and live cookery demonstrations by TV chef Adrian. Music lovers will be well catered for with the return of 'Music in the Marquee', and a second live music stage currently in development.
The Claremorris Showgrounds will once again host the event, offering ample space and improved facilities thanks to ongoing collaboration with Claremorris Athletics and Sports Club. Organisers have paid close attention to creating a family-friendly, welcoming environment - and accessibility has remained front and centre.
Sustainability is also a key theme this year. In partnership with the Smarter Travel initiative, a free shuttle service will run throughout Claremorris during the show, while hourly transport from Kiltimagh will also be available. Visitors from other areas are encouraged to use public transport, with local trains connecting directly to the shuttle network.
The committee has emphasised that the show is not just an event - it’s a reflection of the community’s pride, resilience, and creativity.
“It’s something that brings everyone together, whether you’re a farmer, a baker, a crafter, or a photographer,” said one committee member. “And every year we aim to honour that sense of connection.”
For those looking to get involved - whether through trade stands, class entries, sponsorship opportunities, or simply as visitors - the team behind the show is happy to help. Show Secretary Maureen Finnerty can be contacted on 087-9241450 or by email at claremorrisagshow@yahoo.ie.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre has announced a fresh range of community-focused initiatives for the coming weeks and months, offering a mix of practical supports, creative engagement, and child-friendly activities designed to serve local families and individuals of all ages.
First up is a summer day trip that promises fun and adventure for children aged seven to 12. On this Friday, July 25th, the Centre will lead a visit to Graune Pet Farm where children can enjoy hands-on animal feeding, an indoor playzone, sandpits, zipwires and more.
The cost is €17 per child, which includes lunch and bus travel. The trip runs from 11.30am to 3.30pm, and advance booking is essential.
Looking ahead to autumn, the Centre will offer a Smartphone Masterclass starting Tuesday, September 9th. The course runs for six consecutive Tuesdays from 11am to 1pm. Aimed at helping participants make the most of their mobile phones, the sessions will cover both basic and advanced features, ensuring that attendees walk away with skills that make everyday tasks easier and more efficient. The full course is priced at just €20.
In addition, the Centre is launching a new dialogue initiative titled 'Leave No One Behind: Community Creative Conversations'. Beginning on Monday, September 8th, this weekly session runs from 12pm to 3pm and is designed to foster inclusive discussions, build understanding, and develop collaborative solutions that strengthen the local community. All are welcome, and bookings can be made via phone or email.
For younger community members, a Zen PowerYoga for Children programme will begin on Thursday, August 14th, running weekly from 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Open to children of all levels, the sessions blend physical activity with mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat and a warm blanket. To register, contact Laura on 083-0027345.
Alongside these new offerings, the Centre continues its commitment to dignity and inclusion with several ongoing supports. With funding assistance from Mayo County Council, the Period Poverty Support Programme ensures that free sanitary products are available to anyone who needs them - no questions asked. Just call into the Centre during opening hours and ask at reception.
As part of its back-to-school initiative, the Centre also offers free school uniforms to families in need. Thanks to donations and local support from Tesco Claremorris, a range of items are available. Parents and guardians can drop in Monday to Friday, between 9.30am and 5pm, to browse the selection.
Finally, the Centre reminds local community and voluntary groups that accessible meeting spaces are available for use. Whether you're hosting a planning session, support group, or community event, the FRC has flexible options that can accommodate your needs.
For more information on any of the above programmes or to make a booking, contact Claremorris FRC at 094-9377838 or email info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
Claremorris GAA’s 50/50 draw proved a rewarding one for Karl McMahon last week, as his name was pulled for the top prize of €1,178. Karl bought his lucky ticket in Gilligan’s Bar, where many regulars continue to support the draw each week.
The club extends sincere thanks to all who take part, both in local outlets and online, and reminds supporters that proceeds from the draw go directly towards facilities, training resources, and youth development within the club.
Congratulations to Colman Collins, winner of last week’s Claremorris AFC 50/50 draw. Colman scooped a prize of €408, thanks to a ticket bought in Hanley’s.
The club continues to offer both in-person and online ticket sales each week and expressed gratitude to everyone who enters regularly. Funds raised are reinvested into supporting local teams at all levels of the game.
Parents, guardians and grandparents of children with autism are invited to attend the Autism Parent Peer Support Group in Claremorris. The group meets at 7pm on the third Wednesday of each month at Cúram Family Centre, offering a warm welcome, a cup of tea, and a chance to chat with others in a similar position.
The death has occurred of Liam McHugh, Roose, Hollymount. Liam passed away suddenly at his residence on July 12th.
Liam was predeceased by his parents Michael and Una (née Costello) and brother-in-law Nicholas Melia. He will be deeply regretted by his loving family: sister Mary, brother John, nieces Heather and Rebecca, nephew Nicholas, grand-niece Eva, uncle Liam (Castlerea), aunt Teresa (Claremorris), cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Liam reposed at Roundfort Community Funeral Home on Tuesday evening last with removal to St Joseph’s Church, Carras. Requiem Mass was held on Wednesday morning followed by burial in Roundfort Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of James (Jimmy) Burke, Cloonmore, Ballindine, and formerly of Coole, Ballindine.
Jimmy died peacefully in Mayo University Hospital on July 12th, surrounded by his family.
Jimmy was predeceased by his parents Paddy and Mary Delia, and his wife Mary B (née O’Connor). He will be sadly missed by his son Kevin, daughter-in-law Rita, grandchildren Ava, Annie and Páudí, sister Kay (Donnelly), nephew Brendan, brothers-in-law, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Jimmy reposed in Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine on Tuesday evening last with removal to St Joseph’s Church, Ballindine. Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday morning, followed by burial in Ballindine Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Frank Donnelly, Lower James Street, Claremorris, and Ballinrobe. Frank passed away peacefully in his 92nd year at Mayo University Hospital.
Frank was predeceased by his wife Ann, parents Sonny and Margaret Donnelly, brothers Paddy and Sean, and sister Bridgie. He will be fondly remembered by his family Kevin, Annette and Olive; daughter-in-law Josephine; sons-in-law Colm Flynn and Colm Wallace; grandchildren Nina, Mark and Amy; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews; grand-nieces and grand-nephews; his godchild Angela Moran; neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Frank’s remains reposed at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris on Monday evening last with removal to St Colman’s Church. Funeral Mass took place on Tuesday afternoon, followed by burial in St Colman’s Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Mary (Mai) Gormley, née Foy, Boherduff, Knock Road, Claremorris.
Mai died peacefully in the care of D’Alton Community Nursing Home in Claremorris. She was predeceased by her loving husband Brian, sister Peggy, and brothers Paddy and John.
Mai will be sadly missed by her daughters Sheila and Helen; sons Vinnie and Brian; daughter-in-law Carol; sons-in-law Niall and Ollie; grandchildren Mark, Ruth, Eve, Oisin, Sadhbh, Max, Izzy and Rory; nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Mai reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Friday evening, July 11th, with removal to St Colman's Church. Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, July 12th, with burial afterwards in Barnacarroll Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
