Local Notes: Ballintubber U17s are Connacht Champs.
Unbridled joy as the Ballintubber U17 team captain Alan Burton and teammates received the U17 Connacht Championship Cup.
Congrats to Ballintubber U17 side who were victorious in the Connacht final against the Galway champions Mícheál Breathnachs with a stirring 2-18 to 2-14 victory at the Bekan Centre of Excellence on a recent Friday evening. It was a hard-fought battle against the Galway team but an epic encounter and a classic game of Gaelic football between two fine teams. Mícheál Breathnachs had shared the All-Ireland John West Féile Peile na nÓg National Division 1 title with New York in 2024 which was testimony to their ongoing high standard of performance. Well done, Ballintubber.
The death has taken place of Sheila Staunton (nee Hughes), Skehanagh Upper, Ballintubber, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Sheila was in her 93rd year and she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her husband, Tom; her brother, Frank; and her sisters Lil and Eileen, she is deeply regretted by her heartbroken family: John, Anne Conwell (Meelick), Billy, Tommy and Carol Boland (Dunboyne); her grandchildren and great-grandchild; her sisters, Nora Mai Hughes (Castleisland) and Marie Hughes (Birmingham); nieces, nephews, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Her remains arrivedâ¯at Ballintubber Abbey on last Tuesday morning at 10.15am for Funeral Mass at 11am, followed by committal service at Shannon Crematorium at 4pm. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €8,700 on Sunday night, November 1. 10, 30 and 35 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The consolation prizes went to Mary Hallinan, Cassie Hallinan, Phil Mahon, Pat Costello, Jackie Heneghan and Patricia and Barry Gallagher. The lotto jackpot stood at €8,800 for last Sunday night’s draw. Play Ballintubber lotto at: https://member.clubspot.app/.../ballintubber-gaa/fundraisers.
There was a large crowd and a lively atmosphere in Ballyglass Community Centre on Saturday, October 31, for the community market. Lots of costumes were donned by young and old alike, lending the proceedings a spooky feel. There were some lovely crafts on sale, including baby knits and beautiful handmade soaps, as well as locally produced foods like honey, hen and duck eggs, vegetables and a vast array of baked goods. There was also a fundraiser for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice which people generously supported. Thanks to all who helped make the market a remarkable success, to the vendors, the Jalopy coffee van, the local bakers and makers, and the large crowd who lent their support on the day to this wonderful community event. Special thanks to Mike and Karl for managing the traffic.
Raffle winners on the day were Conor and Chloe Gill, Leona Nestor, Lucy Burke, Fiadh Vahey, Finn Mulroe, Roisin McGinty and Finn Palmer. Katelyn Gill guessed the name of the ghost toy (whose name was Kobe) and took him home. A special well done to all the children who took part in the treasure hunt and wore their Hallowe’en costumes. They all added so much fun to the day. The organisers look forward to seeing everyone again on December 12, for the Christmas Market.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass lotto draw held on Monday, November 2, in the Drum Inn, Clogher. The numbers drawn were 7, 21, 27 and 35. James Gibbons, John Corrigan and Tony Corbett each matched 3 numbers. Consolation prizes went to Brian, Niamh and Peter Killeen and Bernie Reilly. House prizes were won by David Vahey, Joe Mahon and Leah Ormsby. Thanks to The Drum Inn and Ballyglass FC for sponsoring house prizes. The weekend draw had a jackpot of €20,100 up for grabs.
The results from Monday, November 2, were; 1st Seamus Hughes and Sean Reilly, 2nd Michael Sweeney and Mattie Sweeney and 3rd Chris Turner and Pat Griffith. The best of last 10 winners were; Richard and Mary Carney, and Tomas Solan and Peter Glynn. The raffle winners were Michael Sweeney and Mattie Sweeney. Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all who support Ballyglass card games, which continue every Monday night from 9pm in the community centre.
Dancing classes are a wonderful way for children to build confidence, make friends and pick up a new skill. Irish Dancing classes for children will continue in Ballyglass Community Centre, every Wednesday from 4.30 to 5.30. The cost is €8 per lesson, pay as you go.
As the evenings draw in, all are welcome to join in Ballyglass Community Centre for a series of interesting talks on the local history of the Ballyglass area. The remaining talks are: November12, The Burning of Moorehall House, Seán Hallinan; November 19, Tales of Towerhill House, Seán Hallinan; November 26, Local Horse races and donkey stories, Seán Hallinan. All are very welcome to attend. There is a small fee of €5 on the door and light refreshments will be served afterwards. Supported by MSLETB.
A singles 25 card game has commenced in Carnacon Community Centre on Thursday nights at 8.30pm. All card players novice and experienced welcome.
The Rambling House with nights of ceol agus craic takes place at the Scioból, Ballintubber every second Thursday.
Calling all members, supporters, and friends of Lough Carra to the annual general meeting and public meeting at Belcarra Community Centre on Tuesday, November 24, at 7.30pm. This year's meeting will include updates on the work of the Lough Carra Catchment Association and the Lough Carra LIFE Project, as well as a talk from Dr. Verena Bernard on the use of Biochar and its potential to reduce nutrient losses.
Whether you have been involved with the work for years or are simply interested in learning more about Lough Carra and its future, it would be wonderful to see you there.
The Lough Carra LIFE Sustainable Produce Marketing Grant is now open for applications. This funding aims to support the promotion and marketing of sustainably produced local products from the Lough Carra catchment. Full details and application information: https://www.loughcarralife.ie/news-and-events.
**************
Ta Sam Maguire ag teacht go CLG Thuar Mhic Éadaigh! The Sam Maguire is coming to CLG Thuar Mhic Éadaigh on Saturday, November 21, from 3 to 6pm. It promises to be a great evening for all the club, young and old, to come along and get a photo with the Sam Maguire.
Beidh siúlóid threoraithe as Gaeilge ar siúl i gCoill Thuar Mhic Éadaigh Dé Céadaoin an 11ú Samhain, ag tosaigh ag 11r.n. Tabhair cara leat! There will be a nature walk as Gaeilge in Tourmakeady Wood, tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11 starting at 11am.
Join Partry Women’s Circle on Thursday, November 19, at 8pm, in Partry Community Centre, for a lesson in crochet with Lil where you can learn to create simple items with one stitch. Ladies from anywhere are welcome, over 18s, €5.
The SN Thuar Mhic Éadaigh - school fundraising ‘lotto bonus number’ for the school will be commencing on November 14. A prize of €100 will be awarded each week based on the bonus number from the main lotto on Saturday night (without lotto plus 1 or lotto plus 2). If you wish to take part the cost is €100 for six months. Anyone who is willing to support, contact the school via phone on 094 95 44088 or email snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com.
There are a limited number of trader spaces remaining for the Christmas Makers Market weekend, so if you have a handmade design, a seasonal product, or a new product range and you want the opportunity to share it, book your space now. The market will be held on December 5 and 6, from 11am to 3pm in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Mayo F12C6F2.
The lotto jackpot on Saturday, November 7, stood at €10,300. The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are online prizes of €40 and a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development, and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated.
Congrats to Martin Cannon who was the recent €338 winner in Killawalla Community Council of the 50/50 lotto. Congrats also to Jimmy and Marian Tuffy, Kathleen Heneghan and Breege Mulhern who won €50 each in the special draw.
Chair yoga continues at the centre every Wednesday at 11.30am. Pilates takes place in the centre on Monday evenings from 7 to 8pm. Notices regarding local community issues and relevant submissions for consideration should be made to Siobhan Jennings on 087 6713940 or Carmel Carter on 087 2879701.
Partry AFC numbers draw is held on Wednesday nights weekly. Congrats to Michael and Sinead Lally, Partry; Pat and Madeline Dermody and Brian and Deirdre Hennelly, Partry, who were recent winners of the popular weekly flutter. For further details contact any committee member or call 087 9957761.
Partry Residents draws take place on Saturday nights at 8pm. Congrats to Mary O'Malley, Kilfaul and Kathleen Wickham, Tooreen who were recent winners with number 16. Memberships of the draw are available from 087 2860565.
In Partry Community Centre, Bingo takes place every Monday at 8.30pm. The Coleman School of Dancing are hosting Irish Dancing classes for children in Partry Centre on Thursdays at 5.30pm. Call Catherine aon 087 1083752 for details.
The Women’s Group meet once a month – generally on a Thursday. The community centre is available for meetings/ activities. Bookings can be made through any member of the community council. Event organisers and providers are required to have their own insurance. There is defibrillator at the back of the community centre.
*************
The death has occurred of Catherine Barrett nee McDonagh, Drumcurrabawn, Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Catherine passed away peacefully at her residence on Friday, October 30. She was highly regarded and was a pleasant friendly and caring person. Predeceased by her husband Mick, parents Patrick and Mary McDonagh, brothers Michael and Eamonn and son-in-law Charles Whittington, she is deeply regretted by her heartbroken children Anne-Marie, Patrick (Anne), John (Nonie), Michelle and Karen (Martin McTigue), grandchildren Joseph, Paul, Vanessa, Maria, Kate and Sean, sisters Ann Byrne (Kilkenny), Teresa Sweeney (Ballyheane) and brother Paddy Mc Donagh (Carramore, Clogher), brothers-in-law Mick Byrne and Seamus Sweeney, sisters-in-law Mary McDonagh and Mary Tonra (Balla), nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Catherine’s remains reposed in Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, on Sunday, November1, from 5 to 7pm.The removal of her remains from her residence took place on Monday morning at 10.30am for Requiem Mass at 11.30am in St. Aloysius Church, Breaffy. Catherine was laid to rest afterwards in Breaffy Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on Sunday, November 1, were 5, 9, 23 and 26. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The €30 consolation prize-winners were Peggy Boland, Michael Rooney, Jaice Kenny and Mary Cunningham. The weekend jackpot stood at €9,000 on last Sunday night, November 8.
Why not join for a cosy evening of creativity, conversation and a cuppa. The Knitting and Crochet Group meets every Tuesday night at 8pm in Belcarra Community Centre. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced knitter, everyone is welcome. Bring along your knitting, crochet or sewing project, learn something new, share ideas and enjoy a friendly chat. No experience needed, just come along and give it a go. New faces are always welcome.
Chair yoga has commenced in Belcarra Centre on Tuesdays from 10.30 to 11.30am. Message Emma for more information and to book your place call 087 9973357. Irish dancing runs from 5.45 to 6.45. Call Thelma on 087 954 5305 for details. Belcarra Crafters meet at 8pm.
Every Wednesday from 9.30am to 12 noon the Parent and Toddler Group meet. Information from 087 629972; Pilates is from 7.30 to 8.30pm, call Natalie on 087 234695.
Set dancing is on Thursdays from 8.30pm – beginners welcome. On Fridays Taekwon-do is from 4 to 5pm for 6 to 12 year-olds. Call 087 3596732 for information.
The numbers drawn in the Breaffy GAA lotto on Tuesday, November 3 were 5, 8, 23 and bonus number 4. There was no jackpot and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at £23,000 on this Tuesday night, November 10.
Ballyheane Community are giving everyone a chance to win a Classic Mini car. The draw is in aid of Ballyheane Christmas Lights fund. Tickets are currently on sale and are modestly priced at €10 or 3 for €20. The draw will be held on December 19 in the community centre.
Beginners Irish dancing classes take place in Ballyheane Centre and are now taking bookings for the sessions. All welcome - ages 4+ every Tuesday from 6.30 to 7.30pm with a fee of €10 per class. Classes for competition, grade exams, displays shows, fitness, and fun. Call Molly Hughes TCRG on 087 6562094 for details.
Ballyheane 'Bingo fundraiser and raffle' will take place on December 2 at the Bingo session. All proceeds go to the Sunflower Children’s Hospice, Castlebar and the Daisy Lodge Cong. All donations will be greatly appreciated and best of lucky to doners who will all go into the draw. Ballyheane bingo session takes place every Wednesday at 8.30pm in the community centre. All welcome. Raffle on the night and refreshments served.

************
The death has taken place of Noel Mannion, Main Street, Balla, Co. Mayo. Noel passed away at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar. Predeceased by his wife Vera (McDonnell), sisters Marion (Moore) and Dympna (Stewart), sister-in-law Ann (McDonnell) he is deeply mourned and lovingly remembered by his daughter Marie (Mahon, Manulla), son-in-law Dave, grandson Cian and his wife Amy, great grandchild Lottie, sisters Teresa (O’Donovan, Ardfield, Clonakilty), Nuala (Walsh, Smuttanagh, Manulla), brother Chris (Balla), brothers-in-law, Sean, Tommy, Brendan, Jim, Ron, and Peter, sister-in-law Patricia (McGreal), nephews, nieces, grand nephews, grand nieces, cousins, neighbours, carers, relatives, and a large circle of friends. To whom sincere condolences are tendered. His remains reposed at the Balla Funeral Home on Saturday evening from 5pm, with removal at 7pm to his residence. The removal of his remains took place on Sunday to St Cronan’s Church Balla for funeral Mass at 1.30pm, followed by burial in the adjoining Cemetery. Dia dean trocaire ar a nAinm.
Balla Christmas Festival Launch for Christmas 2026 is on Saturday, December 5, and it has an exciting programme. There will be Christmas Markets, Santa and the Elves, Christmas Lights at 6pm, Kids Tractor Run, Fireworks Display, and a Big Tractor Run. It will be a magical day of festive fun for the whole family. Santa tickets are on sale now (almost sold out). https://willwego.com/organiser/balla-community-centre The late Orla Nestor.
The death has taken place of Orla Nestor, Lagaturrin, Balla, Co. Mayo. Orla passed away suddenly at her residence and her passing is an occasion of great sorrow to her loving family. Predeceased by her parents Tim and Maureen, she is deeply regretted by her loving sister Deirdre, brothers David, Tadhg and Niall, sisters-in-law Johanna, Kelly and Sinead, nieces Bronwyn, Ellie, Ciara, Alanna and Leah, nephews Heath, Pierce, Noah and Shay and aunt Ann, relatives, friends and neighbours to whom sincere condolences are extended. Her remains reposed at Balla Funeral Home on last Tuesday evening from 5 o’clock with removal at 7 o’clock to St. Cronan’s Church, Balla. Orla’s Funeral Mass was celebrated on last Wednesday at 12.30 with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest in peace.
Balla GAA lotto draw took place on October 29 in the Flukies for a jackpot of €3,300. The numbers drawn were 4, 6, 10 and 18. €30 consolation prizes went to Conor McDonnell (cash sale), Martin Brennan (online) and Martin Vahey (standing order). The latest draw was held on Thursday, November 5, in The Railway Tavern with a jackpot of €3,400.
Congrats to Balla Secondary School senior boys who beat St Muredach's, Ballina 3-25 to 1-11. The senior lads had another impressive victory in the Flanagan Cup at home to St Muredach's last week. It was a fantastic performance from all involved from start to finish. Balla now play in the Flanagan A Cup final with opposition, date and venue to be confirmed. Next up is a trip to Coláiste Einde, Salthill in the first round of the Connacht championship on Wednesday.
The Man Walk; Ireland is being welcomed to Balla. Join up on Saturday, November 14, at 9.30am, meeting at The Square in Balla. It's a chance for men to get together, enjoy a walk, have a chat and support one another. No pressure, no expectations and no judgement – just fresh air and good company. It's free to attend, no signing up required and everyone is welcome. For further information contact Harry on 089 976 1519.
Join up on Saturday, December 5, for Balla's spectacular Christmas Tractor Run, following the fireworks display. Bring the family, enjoy the festive atmosphere and watch the tractors light up the night sky. Every donation helps us make Balla's Christmas celebrations bigger and brighter.
Balla CRD annual general meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 17 at 8pm in the Courthouse. All members are requested to attend.
Come and celebrate 50 wonderful years of Manulla FC in Breaffy House Hotel on Saturday, November 28, for their celebration dinner. It is a night to catch up with old friends, neighbours and family and reminisce about the history of Manulla club, as well as a chance to meet those currently involved with the club and share stories. To get your tickets, contact Damian on 087 6147661 or Aileen on 087 1940170 or any member of Manulla FC to get your tickets. Tickets will also be for sale in the clubhouse on this Tuesday, November 10, at 7pm, Thursday 19, at 8pm and Monday, November 23, at 7pm. Manulla FC lotto draw on November 8 featured a €1,100 jackpot.
The Balla Cuppa Club runs every Wednesday morning from 10am to 12pm. Call in to the Centre for a cuppa, a friendly chat, read the newspaper or have a look at the library of books and tea and coffee. Whether you’re popping in for a quick cuppa or staying for a chat, everyone is welcome. Only €2 per person - come on your own or bring a friend.
************
A huge thank you for all the messages of support for Clogher’s participation in last week’s Pride of Place awards. Although Clogher didn’t bring home an award, they are incredibly proud of the community and all that has been achieved together.
Thanks, has been extended to everyone who continues to support and encourage community activities, and everyone will continue working hard and building on the wonderful community ethos all are so proud to be part of.
The results of the card game on Friday 3, October 30, were 1st Tommy Fahey and Derek Quinn, 2nd Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith, 3rd Tommy Lyons and Jimmy Connor and Kathy O'Toole and Mary Jo Cannon. The last 10 winners were Martin Moran and Thomas Fitzpatrick. The game continues every Friday night at 9 pm.
Sincere sympathy is extended to the Barrett family of Drumcurrabawn, Breaffy on the sad passing of their mother Catherine. Condolences also to her brother Paddy McDonagh and family Carramore, and her sisters Teresa Sweeney, and family Ballyheane and Ann Byrne and family Kilkenny. May she rest in peace.
Congratulations to all the Ballintubber GAA U17 team and management on their epic Connacht title win on Friday week last in Bekan. Special congratulations to the 5 former Errew NS pupils on the team - Conor Hoban, Finnian Brady, Ciaran Earley, Seán Prendergast and Cian Brady. It was a very proud day for the club and community.
Errew Ladies’ Group meet every Wednesday at 7pm in Errew Community Centre. Chair yoga with Ann is the organised activity for the next few weeks - €10pp per class. Suggestions for future activities or talks always welcome. Contact Eileen Conway for more details on 087 9227567.
Mayo Cancer Support will celebrate their annual Mass of Remembrance and Thanksgiving in Rock Rose House, on Thursday, December 12, at 7pm. Light refreshments served afterwards.
