Local Notes: Claremorris gains 14 points in Tidy Towns
'Over the bars/Balmoral Show 2026' by Brendan Smyth, Mount Street, Claremorris was adjudged as the winner of the 'Capture the Moment' online photography Class 501 at this year’s Claremorris Agricultural Show.
Claremorris has increased its score in the 2026 SuperValu Tidy Towns competition by 14 points, bringing its total to 356 out of a possible 600, compared with 342 last year.
The town, competing in Category D, received a positive adjudication report following an inspection on June 14th. Marks increased in all eight categories.
The adjudicator praised the committee's planning, its growing volunteer support and its cooperation with businesses, community organisations, schools and Mayo County Council. The town's participation in the St Patrick's Day parade was also recognised.
The presentation of commercial premises received favourable comments, with particular mention of PJ Byrne's, O'Brien's, Kennedy's, Warde's, La Belle Femme, Tír na nÓg and Redz. The Town Hall, Library, St Colman's Church and the railway station artwork were also commended.
The Square was recognised for its seating and facilities for community events. However, dereliction remained a concern, particularly the large building at the junction of James Street and Ballindine Road.
The town's parks featured prominently in the report. Clare Lake and the Land of the Giants were praised for their sculptures, walking routes, playground and recreational facilities. Mayfield Walk was recognised for its wildlife habitats and plans for further native tree planting. The adjudicator welcomed the landscaping along the Ballindine and Kilcolman roads and suggested that additional street trees would further improve the town.
Biodiversity projects, including the restoration of the graveyard, installation of bird and bat boxes, and pollinator-friendly planting, were acknowledged. Further opportunities to develop wildlife areas in schools and sports grounds were suggested. In the sustainability category, the report recognised composting facilities at the Clár garden, the playground water refill station, book exchanges and clothing swaps. The adjudicator encouraged further measures to conserve water, reduce waste and promote public transport and cycling.
The committee's weekly Tidy Tuesday clean-ups, litter awareness campaigns and efforts to tackle dog fouling received favourable comments. The town was described as almost litter-free, although dumping at the recycling centre near SuperValu was identified as a problem.
The residential estate competition, involving 11 residents' associations, was commended, with a suggestion that biodiversity measures could be incorporated into future judging. The approach roads were also praised, particularly the planting schemes, new pedestrian crossing on the Ballinrobe Road and improvements to public transport facilities.
In concluding the report, the adjudicator acknowledged the work of the committee and volunteers in improving the town's appearance and amenities.
Claremorris Tidy Towns has thanked its volunteers, partner organisations, businesses and residents for their contribution to this year's result. An information and results evening will take place this evening, Tuesday, November 3rd, in the Family Resource Centre at 7pm, when members of the community will have an opportunity to hear more about the competition results and the work of Claremorris Tidy Towns.
The annual Mass for bereaved parents will take place in St John’s Rest and Care Centre, Knock Shrine, on Sunday, November 8th, at 3pm. Fr Vincent Sherlock will be the chief celebrant.
The Mass provides an opportunity for parents and grandparents who have experienced the loss of a child to come together in prayer and offer support to one another. During the ceremony, each parent will be invited to light a candle in memory of their deceased child.
All are welcome to attend.
A workshop for parish choirs and those involved in church music will take place at Knock Shrine on Saturday, November 14th. The workshop will be facilitated by Ephrem Feeley, one of Ireland’s leading composers of liturgical music, in association with the Knock Shrine Music Department.
The programme will include practical workshops on selecting music for liturgies, choral direction and learning new repertoire. It is open to choir members and anyone involved in parish music ministry. The workshop will also provide an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas and develop their knowledge of music used in church services.
The cost is €20 per person, which includes a resource pack. Bookings can be made by emailing the Knock Shrine Music Department at music@knockshrine.ie.
The Barnacarroll Community Employment Scheme is inviting applications for four positions at Barnacarroll Community Centre, Claremorris.
The vacancies include a caretaker (CES-2475129), whose duties will involve the care and maintenance of the community centre and grounds, and a gardener/maintenance worker (CES-2470815), who will be responsible for the care and maintenance of the GAA Centre of Excellence. A childcare position (CES-2475128) is also available, involving supervision of primary school children at the centre during after-school hours, from 2pm to 6pm daily. There is also a vacancy for a cleaner (CES-2470820), with uptake by the local community centre.
Accredited training will be provided for all positions. Participants will have opportunities to gain work experience, develop new skills and receive support and guidance. Those interested can register through the JobsIreland website, their local Community Employment Scheme or their local Intreo office, quoting the relevant CES reference number. Further information is available from the Barnacarroll CE Scheme at Barnacarroll Community Centre, Claremorris, by telephone on 094-938 8022 or by email at barnacarrollsportscentre1@gmail.com.
Mayo handballers Paddy Murphy and Vinny Moran reached the final of the All-Ireland Senior Hardball Doubles Championship, where they were defeated by Kilkenny's Kyle Jordan and Ciaran Neary.
Four Mayo players competed in this year's championship, with Paddy Murphy partnering Vinny Moran, while Dessie Keegan teamed up with Shane Heraty. The Mayo players faced opposition from Kilkenny, Kildare and Galway during the competition.
Paddy and Vinny secured their place in the All-Ireland final following victories over Kilkenny and Kildare opposition in matches played at Fahy, Co Offaly. The final took place at Croke Park, where they faced the Kilkenny pairing of Kyle Jordan and Ciaran Neary. The Kilkenny duo emerged victorious following an entertaining contest, leaving Paddy and Vinny as All-Ireland runners-up.
A night of live music and dancing will take place in the McWilliam Park Hotel, on Friday, November 20th, with all proceeds going towards helping children and young people travel to Lourdes at Easter.
Popular entertainers Shaun Loughrey and David Connor will provide the music for the evening, which gets underway at 9pm. The event is being organised in support of Group 95, a local group operating under the Rise and Shine Trust, which helps bring children and young people to Lourdes each Easter.
The local group consists of 15 volunteers drawn from Claremorris, Castlebar, Milltown and Tuam, who are working together to raise the funds necessary for the trip. Group 95 will be bringing young people from Claremorris and surrounding areas to Lourdes next Easter.
The Rise and Shine Trust operates nationally, with similar groups throughout Ireland undertaking their own fundraising activities to support the children and young people travelling with them.
The annual pilgrimage provides an opportunity for young people to visit Lourdes as part of an organised group, supported throughout their journey by volunteers. Considerable fundraising is required to make these trips possible, and events such as the forthcoming music night play an important part in meeting the costs.
The organisers are hoping for strong local support for the November 20th event, which offers an opportunity to enjoy an evening of music and dancing while contributing to a worthwhile cause. Tickets are €15, with all proceeds supporting Group 95's Easter pilgrimage to Lourdes.
Davitts GAA and LGFA are seeking stallholders for their Christmas Fair on Saturday and Sunday, December 5th and 6th, from 12 noon to 5pm each day. Local craftspeople, artists, small businesses and producers are invited to book tables to sell their goods in the run-up to Christmas.
The fair will also feature a visit from Santa Claus, face painting for children and daily raffles. Organisers hope to attract a range of traders and provide an opportunity for people to shop locally.
Spaces are limited. Anyone interested in booking a table should contact Barbara on 083-8576936.
Claremorris AFC is introducing a weekly Women's Soccer Kick-Around for women and girls aged 16 and over.
The sessions will begin in Barnacarroll Hall on Saturday, November 7th, at 6.30pm and continue each Saturday evening.
The initiative is open to beginners, former players and anyone interested in playing soccer without the pressure of competition. The emphasis will be on exercise, enjoyment and meeting others.
No previous experience is required, and participants are welcome to bring a friend.
The Dementia Dance Memory Group continues to meet every Wednesday at Cúram Family Centre in Claremorris, from 11.30am to 1pm.
The weekly gathering is open to people living with dementia and their carers. Music, dancing, conversation and refreshments provide an opportunity for participants to socialise and enjoy time together. The group also allows carers to meet others who share similar experiences.
Further information is available from Irene on 087-1080650.
Norwegian violinist Mari Samuelsen will perform with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at Knock Basilica on Saturday, November 7th, at 7.30pm. The programme will feature Max Richter's 'Vivaldi Recomposed – The Four Seasons', a contemporary interpretation of Vivaldi's composition.
Ms Samuelsen has performed internationally and has worked with musicians across classical and contemporary genres. She has released three albums on the Deutsche Grammophon label, including her latest recording, 'LIFE'.
The concert is presented by Knock Basilica and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. It is not recommended for children under seven.
Claremorris AFC and Velocity186 will run a four-week soccer development programme for boys and girls aged 10 to 15 during November.
Former professional footballer and Velocity186 Head Coach Phil Reilly will lead the sessions, which will concentrate on ball control, technique and individual development. Training will take place on the Claremorris AFC astro pitch on Saturdays, November 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th, from 9.30am to 10.30am. Players from all clubs are welcome.
This will be the final development programme in Claremorris for 2026. Bookings can be made through Velocity186.
J&G Jiving will run a four-week programme of jiving and line dancing classes in Hollymount Hall, beginning Tuesday, November 3rd. Classes will take place each Tuesday until November 24th, from 8pm to 9.15pm, with admission costing €10 per session.
The programme caters for beginners and more experienced dancers who wish to learn or improve their steps. Participants can enjoy an evening of dancing and exercise while preparing for upcoming social events.
Cara Higgins was the winner of Claremorris GAA Club’s weekly 50/50 draw last week, taking home a jackpot of €1,775. Cara purchased her winning ticket in PJ Byrne’s.
The club congratulated Cara on her win and thanked everyone who continues to support the weekly fundraiser. Tickets are available online and through local shops and pubs, with the proceeds providing valuable financial support for the club’s activities and development.
The death has occurred of Bridget (Bridie) Gibbons of Killeenfarna, Claremorris, and formerly of Tirellan Heights, Galway, and Creevagh, Ballintubber. Bridie died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, in the care of the staff of Queen of Peace Nursing Home, Knock.
Bridie was predeceased by her parents Thomas and Julia, sister Mary Griffith (Balla) and brother Martin Gibbons (Ballintubber). She will be deeply missed by her heartbroken sisters Martina (Tina) Coady (Kilkenny) and Frances Mulkeen (Claremorris), nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, sister-in-law Ann Gibbons, brothers-in-law Micheal Coady, John Joe Mulkeen and Patrick Griffith, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Bridie’s remains reposed at Ballintubber Resource Centre on Friday evening, October 23rd, with removal afterwards to Ballintubber Abbey. Bridie’s Funeral Mass was held on Saturday morning, followed by burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Anthony Thomas (Tony) McDonnell of Thomastown, Hollymount. Tony died peacefully at Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family, following a long illness bravely fought.
Tony was predeceased by his parents Nellie and Thomas McDonnell. Tony will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Breege, daughters Caroline, Deirdre and Aisling, son Kevin, sons-in-law Paul, Brendan and Andrew, daughter-in-law Sinéad, cherished grandchildren Mark, Cathal, Mila, Rian, Cara, Aran, Shéa and Éala, sisters Mary Fahy and Kathleen Prendergast, and the extended McDonnell and Leonard families.
Tony’s remains reposed at Roundfort Community Funeral Home on Sunday evening, October 25th, followed by private removal to his residence. Tony’s Requiem Mass was held on Monday in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Roundfort, followed by burial afterwards in Roundfort Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Mary Daly (née Roche) of Crimlin, Claremorris. Mary died peacefully at the Galway Clinic, surrounded by her family.
Mary was predeceased by her husband Mike, parents Johnny and Bridget, and brothers Thomas, Jackie and Michael. She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her sons Tom and John, daughter Maura, their partners Michelle and Noel, grandchildren Brian, Lisa and Ciara, sister-in-law Delia, relatives and friends.
Mary’s remains reposed at Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine, on Wednesday evening, October 28th, with removal afterwards to the Church of the Holy Family, Irishtown. Her Funeral Mass was held on Thursday morning, followed by burial afterwards in Irishtown Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Geraldine Maloney of Lios Na Circe, Saleen, Castlebar, and formerly of Gurteenmore, Claremorris. Geraldine died peacefully in the loving care of the staff of the Carra Suite, Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar.
Geraldine was predeceased by her parents Tom and Delia Maloney and aunt Sr Mary Laserian. Geraldine will be sadly missed by her loving sisters and brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, relatives, friends and neighbours.
Geraldine’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris, on Wednesday evening, October 28th, with removal afterwards to St Colman’s Church. Her Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, October 29th, followed by burial afterwards in St Colman’s Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Ann (Dolly) Cummins (née Penston) of Seefin, Hollymount, and formerly of Tubberjarlath Road, Tuam, and Birmingham, UK. Dolly died peacefully on October 24th, 2026.
Dolly was predeceased by her husband PJ, her parents and brother Tommy. She will be sadly missed by her daughter Suzanne, son Peter, grandchildren Josh, George, Orla and Conal, sisters Josephine and Doloures, sisters-in-law Peggy, Ann and Patsy, Suzanne’s fiancé Keith, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Dolly’s remains reposed at Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine, on Tuesday evening, October 27, with removal afterwards to St Joseph’s Church, Ballindine. Dolly’s Funeral Mass was held on Wednesday morning, followed by burial afterwards in Ballindine Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Josephine (Josie) Nally (née Waldron) of Cullatinny, Knock. Josie died unexpectedly but peacefully at Galway University Hospital on October 24th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Josie was predeceased by her parents John and Vera Waldron and grandson Jason. Josie will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her husband Michael, daughters Lorraine (Killeen) and Madeline (Hunt), son Michael, sons-in-law Patrick and Ray, grandchildren Chloe, Dylan, Madison, Bronagh, Finnon and Saoirse, sisters Tina (Kilduff), Maggie (Fitzgerald) and Rita (Mooney), brother Liam, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Josie’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, on Tuesday evening, October 27th, with removal afterwards to the Church of St John the Baptist, Knock. Funeral Mass was held on Wednesday morning, followed by burial afterwards in Knock Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
Mayo County Council has issued a conditional decision to grant planning permission for a residential development of 52 homes on a site between Kilcolman Road and Ballyhaunis Road in Claremorris. The development, proposed by Sayvale 24 Ltd, received the council's decision on October 15th, subject to 20 conditions. The developer estimates that the project will involve an investment of approximately €17.5 million and could create or support at least 200 jobs during construction.
The scheme comprises 36 apartments and 16 houses. The apartments, consisting of 24 one-bedroom and 12 two-bedroom units, will be accommodated in three buildings ranging from two to three storeys. The 16 three-bedroom houses will be arranged in four terraces of four two-storey dwellings.
The brownfield site adjoins the Lidl supermarket and Claremorris GAA grounds, with the Cluain Ard residential development to the south and the N60 to the north. It also borders lands behind Hillside Service Station and a neighbouring private residence. Vehicular and pedestrian access will be provided from Kilcolman Road through an extension of the existing access road serving Lidl, while a separate pedestrian and cycling connection will link the development to Ballyhaunis Road.
The plans include internal roads, footpaths, car and bicycle parking, landscaped areas, communal and private open spaces, public lighting and associated services and infrastructure. The site already has planning permission for 44 apartments. The revised scheme increases the number of residential units to 52 and introduces a mixture of houses and apartments to accommodate different housing needs.
In its planning statement, Sayvale 24 Ltd highlighted the demand for additional housing in Claremorris, referring to previous shortfalls in housing provision and targets contained in the Mayo County Development Plan. The company estimates that approximately 130 people could be accommodated in the completed development. The proposed investment would also generate economic activity during construction, with potential benefits for local contractors, suppliers and service providers. The council's conditional decision remains subject to the completion of the statutory planning process.
