Local Notes: All the latest news from Kiltimagh

Clann Machua return to the stage; Winter Poker League; Louise wins GAA 50/50
Local Notes: All the latest news from Kiltimagh

Former Kiltimagh Knock United player, Dylan Reddington, who has signed for Mayo FC Under-17 squad for 2026.

Dates and cast announced for Clann Machua production

Clann Machua Drama Group has announced that tickets are now on sale for the upcoming production of ‘Greta Garbo Came to Donegal’, which will be staged at Kiltimagh Town Hall Theatre on February 12th, 13th and 14th, with performances each night at 8pm. 

This acclaimed play promises plenty of laughter along with moments of poignancy, making it a production not to be missed. Tickets are available to book online via Eventbrite.

Written by renowned playwright Frank McGuinness, ‘Greta Garbo Came to Donegal’ is set in Donegal in 1967, at a time when Ireland is on the cusp of dramatic change. The story follows two couples whose relationships are beginning to unravel, a woman fighting to hold her family together, and a young girl striving to protect her future. 

Looming over the action, both distant and deeply involved, is the enigmatic figure of Greta Garbo, whose presence helps determine the course of events. When the gods arrive, however, they bring disruption as well as revelation, not least for the divine Greta herself.

The full-length production features a cast of seven and has been widely praised for its rich blend of humour, emotional depth and theatrical energy since its original premiere at the Tricycle Theatre on January 7th, 2010. The Clann Machua Drama cast includes Maura Murphy as Paulie, Elaine Reagan as Colette, Paul Kelly as James, Finola Mellett as Sylvia, Rory Quinn as Harry, Séamus Corry as Sir Matthew, and Colette McGinty in the title role of Greta Garbo. The production is directed by Rebecca Farrington.

The group is looking forward to welcoming theatre-goers to Kiltimagh Town Hall Theatre for a captivating and memorable run from February 12th to 14th.

Winter Poker League 

The closing stages of the Winter Poker League produced two competitive nights of poker in Teach O’Hora, with Adam Earley claiming his third victory of the campaign in Round 14, before Michael Sheridan took the honours in the final round.

In Round 14, Adam Earley recorded his third win of the season when he finished first ahead of Keith Lydon in second place, with Andy Quinn taking third. Michael Higgins finished fourth, followed by Enda Ruane and Michael Sheridan, while Marcella Gilmartin, Gerry Groarke and Paul Walsh completed the final table.

That result saw Adam further strengthen his position at the top of the league standings, where he moved to 245 points. He was followed at that stage by Keith Lydon on 215 and Michael Sheridan on 210. The remainder of the top twelve after Round 14 stood as Martin Regan 204, Marcella Gilmartin 196, Derry O’Sullivan 194, Michael Higgins 192, Gerry Groarke 188, Andy Quinn 187, Julian Keane 186, Paul Walsh 177 and Nicky Cunnane 166.

Round 15, the final round of the current league, saw Michael Sheridan take the win after a lengthy heads up battle with Michael Higgins, following a deal to chop the prize money. Paul Walsh claimed third place, with Majella Gilmartin finishing fourth. The remaining finalists on the night were Isaac Boyle, Kieran McGee, Julian Keane, Derry O’Sullivan and Gerry Groarke.

After fifteen rounds of play, long-time leader Adam Earley finished top of the overall league table on 245 points, just two points clear of Michael Sheridan on 243. Keith Lydon finished third on 225 points, followed by Majella Gilmartin and Michael Higgins, both on 215. The rest of the top twelve were Martin Regan 213, Paul Walsh 211, Derry O’Sullivan 208, Julian Keane 203, Gerry Groarke 200, Andy Quinn 187 and Isaac Boyle 180.

These twelve players qualify automatically for the Grand Final and will be joined by two additional qualifiers from a last chance play-off tournament, which is open to any player who competed in at least five rounds of the league.

The Grand Final prize pool will stand at €3,370, with the date yet to be confirmed. Players’ starting stacks for the final will be based on league performance and are as follows: Adam Earley 39,500, Michael Sheridan 36,300, Keith Lydon 32,500, Majella Gilmartin 30,000, Michael Higgins 28,500, Martin Regan 27,300, Paul Walsh 26,600, Derry O’Sullivan 25,800, Martin Regan 24,800, Julian Keane 24,800, Gerry Groarke 24,000, Andy Quinn 22,200 and Isaac Boyle 21,000.

A new fifteen-week Winter Poker League will begin shortly.

East Mayo Scór na bPáistí 

Primary school pupils from across East Mayo are being invited to take part in this year’s Scór na bPáistí, which will be held on Thursday, February 12th.

The annual competition offers young participants the chance to showcase their talents across a wide range of traditional and cultural categories. These include Solo Singing, Recitation, Ceol Uirlíse, Ballad Group, Nuachleas/Drama, Figure Dancing, Set Dancing and Sean Nós Dancing.

Schools planning to take part are asked to submit their entries by Monday, February 2nd. All entries should be emailed to Aingeal Uí Mhaicín at aingealuimhaicin@gmail.com.

Scór na bPáistí is open to all primary school pupils in the East Mayo area. Details regarding venues and competition times will be confirmed and circulated to schools closer to the date of the event.

Conn McDermott signs for Mayo U-20s 

Conn McDermott will return to Mayo FC for a second season, continuing his development with the club after a positive first year. The talented youngster brings valuable League of Ireland experience, having previously lined out with Longford Town, and also boasts strong local roots, having played his early football with Kiltimagh Knock United.

A highly versatile player, Conn is capable of operating in a number of positions and is known for his pace, energy and work rate. His adaptability and commitment make him a valuable asset to the Mayo FC squad, and the club will be hoping he can build on last season’s performances as he continues to progress in the coming campaign.

Women’s Group meet to plan year 

The next meeting of the Women’s Group will take place in the library on Tuesday, February 3rd at 7pm. The meeting will focus on planning events and activities for the year ahead, and all women are warmly invited to attend.

Card Drive

There was a closely contested evening at the weekly 25 Card Drive, with two pairings sharing first place after an exciting round of games.

Joint top honours went to Mary and Jimmy Doyle, who finished level with Ciaran McDonnell and Jack Ryan at the top of the table. Third place was claimed by John Clancy and Paddy Carney after a strong performance.

The Last Ten prize went to Mary and John Ward, while the spot prize was taken by Mary and Liam Moran. Raffle winners on the night were Mary Ward, Richard Carney, Denis Regan and Joe Boyle.

Louise claims Kiltimagh GAA prize 

Louise Cunnane was the winner of Kiltimagh GAA Club’s 50/50 draw last week, receiving €646. The club congratulated Louise on her win and thanked all who continue to support the weekly draw. 

Proceeds from ticket sales contribute towards team development and ongoing improvements at Gilmartin Park. Tickets remain available online, in local shops and pubs, and from club sellers throughout Kiltimagh.

John Forde, RIP 

The death has occurred of John Forde of Bohaunes, Knock, and formerly of Dublin and Manchester. John died peacefully on January 14th at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents Matthew and Nora, and his brothers Matt and Peter.

John will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his son Seán, daughters Colette and Sharon, sisters Mary (Tralee), Eithne (Drogheda), Bernadette (Dublin) and Áine (Westport), brothers Michael (Manchester) and Pius (Knock), nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

John’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, on Saturday evening, January 17th, with removal to the Basilica of Our Lady, Knock. Funeral Mass took place on Sunday morning, followed by burial afterwards in Kilkinure Cemetery, Kiltimagh. 

May he rest in peace.

Sympathy

Sympathy is extended to Cáit McTigue, Kiltimagh, on the death of her brother Joseph (Jimmy Joe) Dolan in Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim.

Tom McNicholas, RIP 

The death has occurred of Tom McNicholas of Derryvohey, Balla. Tom died peacefully at his home. He was predeceased by his parents Patrick and Helena, brother Fr Gerald (Gerry) McNicholas, and his brother-in-law Frank Devine (Carlow).

Tom is deeply regretted and will be sadly missed by his sisters Maura Devine and Phil McDonnell, brother-in-law Brendan, niece Paula, nephews Alan, Ian, Declan, Colm and Tony, grandnephews, grandnieces, extended family and his many good friends.

Tom’s remains reposed at O’Hora’s Funeral Home, Main Street, Kiltimagh, on Wednesday evening, January 21st, with removal to the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh. Tom’s Funeral Mass took place on Thursday. 

May he rest in peace. 

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