Paddy Joe to sign copies of his new book in Ballymote

One of Roscommon’s best-known GAA fans and former barber Paddy Joe Burke will be signing copies of his book, Kindness Has a Long Memory, at Kelly's SuperValu Ballymote on Saturday, November 7, at 2pm. Paddy Joe moved to Ballymote ten years ago when he married local woman Maura McGettrick.

How the couple met in McDermott’s Bar & Restaurant in Castlebaldwin after a chance encounter is recounted in the book that looks at the remarkable life of the popular figure.

Widely known for his fierce devotion to the Primrose and Blue, Paddy Joe also became renowned for his famous barber shop in Roscommon Town, which he ran for 50 years until his retirement in October 2024.

The book reveals a much deeper, untold story beyond the barber's chair. Profoundly difficult school years and a painful battle with addiction left him grappling with years of self-doubt.

The memoir details how Paddy Joe successfully transformed his personal struggles into a profound message of hope for others.

The story also captures a nostalgic portrait of a changing Ireland, tracing his path from childhood in rural 1950s’ Roscommon to today.

Co-written with journalist Richard Canny, Kindness Has a Long Memory is available in local bookstores and from www.redstripepress.com