Local Notes: Ballintubber Bord na nÓg 5k.
Kevin Corbett, James Corbett, Jack and Robert Coyne pictured at the recent Ballintubber Bord na nÓg 5k. Picture by Tom Quinn
Ballyglass Active Age group held their AGM on January 20. The meeting was very well attended. Mary Brennan, Maureen Murphy and Agnes Larkin stepped down from their respective roles and the following new officers were elected: Mena Mahon, chairperson; Sally Keane, secretary; Mary Corbett, treasurer; Rita Nestor, vice chairperson; Margo Murray, assistant secretary; Marian Prendergast, assistant treasurer and Christina Murphy, PRO.
Gratitude was expressed to the outgoing officers for their excellent delivery of their duties, and good wishes were extended to the incoming officers. A moments silence was observed in recognition of members and former group members who passed away in the previous year. Sarah Keane was thanked for running her exercise classes every Tuesday morning, and thanks also to Emma who runs the yoga classes from 10am to 11am and again from 11.15 to 12.15 every Wednesday morning. The group has started off the New Year with an appetite for activities and trips, talks and whatever challenges comes their way. As always, new members are welcome to join the group at any time.
Congratulations to Fr Frank Fahey on his upcoming 90th birthday. The occasion will be marked on February 14 (Valentines Day) with a special 10am Mass followed by refreshments and festivities in Corley’s Abbey Lodge from 11am to 1pm.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €6,500 on Sunday night, January 25. The numbers drawn were 10, 11, 18 and 35. Consolation prizes went to Teresa Gerrell, Paul Quinn, Alan Plunkett, Nigel and Karen Mannion, Sean O’ Malley (x 2).
The jackpot stood at €6,600 on last Sunday night, February 1.
Music lovers are invited to experience the powerful 8-part harmonies of Mayo’s acclaimed vocal group Coda, blending Irish trad, folk, and contemporary music in the breath-taking setting of Ballintubber Abbey. The event will take place on Thursday, March 26 with doors opening at 7.30pm and the concert commencing at 8pm. It will be an unforgettable evening of harmony and heritage.
There was no winner of the €16,000 jackpot in the Ballyglass Lotto draw held on Monday, January 26, in the clubhouse. The numbers drawn from the drum were 10, 17, 18 and 31. Nobody matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Maggie Haywood, Ann Moran, Patrick Burke, Breege Jennings and Colin Derrig. The latest draw had a jackpot of €16,100 up for grabs.
Results from Monday, January 27: 1st Noel Costello and Breege Jennings, 2nd Sean Reilly and Tom Fitzpatrick and 3rd Judy Clarke and Kitty Rumley. The best of last 10 winners were Mary Brennan and Philip White and the raffle prizes went to Mary and Richard Carney, Thanks to all the card players and congrats to the winners. The card games continue every Monday night in Ballyglass Community Centre from 9pm.
Volunteers are needed for the next few months to help out with the planned renewal of the Community Futures plan. This five-year plan will help decide as a community what projects people would like to see to further enhance the village and benefit the residents going forward. Anyone who is interested in joining the steering committee is very welcome. Contact Leona on 087 9936663 or call any of our members.
Enrolment for Mountpleasant NS school year 2026/27 opened on Monday, February 2, and closes on Monday, March 2. If you wish to enrol your child, email the school at mountpleasantns@gmail.com or phone on 094 9360125. All are welcome to our open evening on February 3, at 7pm in the school. Enrolment packs can be collected at the school. If you have any questions, call the principal Mrs. Leydon on the above number.
Ballyglass FC 50th Anniversary Book has over 300 pages packed with unforgettable moments, stories, photos, and the rich history of Ballyglass Football Club. The book celebrates a half a century of passion, pride, and community. This is a must-have publication for players, supporters, and friends of the club. Available in local retail and book shops copies of the superb publication are sure to sell out fast.
Join the Irish Life GAA Healthy Steps Challenge on MyLife and support Ballintubber GAA Club by going the distance and help them get to 4000km before February 11 next. Clubs who achieve the 4000km will be entered into a draw to win a share of €30,000 in club funding. You don’t need to be an active club member to participate. Download MyLife from Irish Life from the App Store or Google Play. Help yourself and Ballintubber GAA get healthy.
By volunteering to assist Ballintubber Bord na nÓg teams you not only contribute to the future of the club but also join a dynamic and supportive community. This is an excellent opportunity to give back, connect with others, and positively impact the next generation at Ballintubber GAA. If you are interested in getting involved, contact, Ronan Mannion: 087 464 6495 or email secretary.ballintubber.mayo@gaa.ie.
Ballintubber Abbey Personnel have extended sincere thanks to Jeremy Schewe for choosing Ballintubber Abbey as the venue for the pre-premiere screening of Ireland West Camino: “A Pilgrimage Reborn.” They also extended heartfelt thanks to Thomas Brieter, who filmed and produced the documentary, capturing the spirit, faith, and living heritage of the Ireland West Camino along the ancient Tóchar Phádraig. Thanks to the large number of people who attended at the Abbey for the screening — your presence made the evening truly special.
The Abbey Trust are delighted to be associated with this Camino and look forward to welcoming pilgrims as they journey along the Tóchar Phádraig, passing through this sacred place on their way to Croagh Patrick.
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The death has taken place of James Ludden, Ballure, Ayle, Westport. James passed away on January 21, in Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar and his passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many friends. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Julia, brothers Padraic, Mick, Eoin and John and parents-in-law Anne and John McManamon, he is deeply regretted by his loving wife Mary, daughter Kelsie (Niall), son Cian, brother Tom, sister Mary (Carolan), brother-in-law Michael (Carolan), sisters-in-law Mary (Ludden, Doohoma) and Mary (Ludden, Ballure), nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
James’s remains reposed in Killawalla Community Centre, on Sunday, January 25, and his funeral arrived to St. Patrick’s Church, Killawalla on Monday, January 26, for Requiem Mass at 12 noon, followed by burial ceremonies afterwards in Killawalla Cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, January 31, stood at €20,000. 14, 16, 25 and 32 were the numbers drawn on Saturday night, January 24 and there was no jackpot winner. The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated.
Míle buíochas do na rannpháirtithe ar an Scéim CE, Gemma, Shane agus Jim atá ag déanamh Crosann Bhríde le díol don Shoe Box Appeal. Go raibh míle maith agaibh ag bhur am agus bhur dílseacht don togra seo. Buíochas freisin do Tommy Maree as an luachra a chuir ar fáil. Grateful thanks to the CE participants Gemma, Shane and Jim for their time in making St Bridget's Crosses for sale in aid of the Shoebox Appeal. Thanks also to Tommy Maree for suppling the rushes. Well done to everyone involved and thanks for supporting such a worthy cause.
Knitting Circle meets on Mondays from 7.30 - 9.30pm. New members are welcome. Further information is available from 087 7657191. Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club will meet up again on Thursday, February 5, at 2pm. Come along and enjoy light refreshments, bingo, and exercise. New members are most welcome. Yoga classes run on Tuesdays at 6.30pm. Everyone will be welcome. Book your place by calling 094 9544295 or eolas@tourmakeady.com.
Organised walks take place on Tuesdays and Thursday at CLG, Tour Mhic Éadaigh. All fitness levels are welcome to participate. The Saturday morning Park Run takes place at 9.30am at Tourmakeady woods - join in at your own pace. Please support the local club.
An indoor market in the Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Gaeltacht, Co Mayo, will commence on February 7, and will continue on the 1st Saturday every month thereafter from 11am to 3pm in Halla Pobail Thuar Mhic Éadaigh, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Mayo.
The market will feature a diverse mix of handcrafted, homemade, home-grown and locally produced wares. The market reflects the creativity, skills, and traditions of the area, with everything from artisan foods, natural skincare, artworks and crafts, to unique fresh designs and locally made gifts. For further details make contact by email: makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
Partry Athletic is asking girls born in 2012/2013 to contact the club if they are interested in playing U15 girls football for the coming season. New players are welcome to join. Congrats to Partry Athletic U12 player Alex Dolan who played recently for the Mayo Schoolboys/Girls and Youths AFL U12 team against Galway at Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway. The game was a tight encounter and ended 0-0 with Galway winning by penalties in the shootout. Partry AFC numbers draw is held on Wednesday nights weekly. Congrats to Donal Burke, who was a recent draw winner. The club are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of patrons.
Weekly events in Partry Community Centre are; Bingo every Monday at 8.30pm; Guitar classes run every Tuesday at 5pm currently fully booked; Irish dancing classes on Thursday evenings and the Women’s group meet once a month generally on a Thursday.
Partry Residents draws take place on Saturday nights at 8pm. Recent winners were Joe Grimes, Partry and Joanne Hynes, Ballinrobe. All funds raised go towards village enhancement and worthy local infrastructure improvements.
Killawalla Community Council have requested volunteers for assistance with traffic and parking for funerals. If persons would like to be added to the group, text John at 087 0546853.
There is a bus service operating to Castlebar on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week providing a vital service for communities along the way. The stops include; 1st Tuar Mhic Éadaigh at 10.30am, An Trian Láir, An Tamhnaigh, An tSraith, Partry, Tooreen, Cloonlagheen, Ballinrobe, Lecarrow, Roundfort, Hollymount, Ballygarris, Carnacon, Ballyglass, Belcarra and Castlebar. Full information on services available on the website – pre-book your seat on the Demand Responsive Transport services at least one day in advance. It’s available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm for calls to assist you. Linking local communities to essential services and opportunities, call 094 900 5150 for details.
Bernie Heneghan is a Gambling Therapist supporting both the problem gambler and their families. She is based in the Tacu Family Resource Centre in Ballinrobe and she covers all of Mayo. It is a free support service and open to anyone in need. For further details email: gawarenesstacufrc@gmail.com or 0877005811.
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Breaffy GAA will celebrate a successful year for the senior team on Saturday, February 28, in Breaffy House Hotel. There will be a medal presentation to the Division 1 League Winners 2025 and the Kelly Cup Winners 2025. The doors open 7pm with the 3-course dinner commencing 7.30pm. Wine and music will feature and it will be a night to bring together members, supporters, community, family and friends. Tickets - https://breaffy-gaa-tickets.sumupstore.com/or (086) 795 8388.
Breaffy GAA lotto had the numbers 6, 16, 20 and bonus number 8 drawn on January 27. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at £19,100 on this Tuesday night, February 3.
In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on January 25, were 7, 18, 22 and 23. The consolation prizewinners were Yvonne Moran, Charlie O'Malley, Coralie Payne and Pauline Connor. The weekend jackpot stood at €5,000 on Sunday, February 1.
Belcarra Foróige was delighted to be joined by Belcarra Tidy Towns on Friday night week to discuss projects that they hope to work together on in the coming months. They also presented €150 from their Christmas decorations fundraiser to the Tidy Towns to assist in their work. Members also got a chance to see the newest silverware in the village - congrats to Emily Nestor on her fantastic achievement in winning the Mayo Foróige Bake off final.
A Ciorcal Comhrá, casual and informal chats in Irish will commence shortly in Belcarra. This will be open to everyone regardless of skill level. These sessions will be free of charge. These relaxed, friendly classes are perfect if you’d like to use Irish in everyday life: with family, friends, or your children. If you’d like to take part, get in touch with Sarah on 087 6763589 to register your interest.
Belcarra National School are now taking enrolments for the next academic year. Contact the school to get your form. Details are available from 094 9032210 or email office@belcarra.ie.
First Holy Communion will be held in St Anne’s Church, Belcarra on Saturday, May 9, at 11am. Confirmation will take place in Belcarra Church on Wednesday, May 6, at 2.30pm.
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The death took place last week of Tom Lavin, Glann East, Charlestown and formally of Ardboley, Balla. Tom passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his wife Anna and daughter Anne-Marie, parents John and Stella, brother Cornelius and sister-in-law Veronica, he is deeply regretted by his daughters Shelia, Marina, Nicola, Catriona, sons-in-law Joe, Kevin, Ivan, his adored grandchildren Shane, Adam, Muireann, Eva, Grace, Dylan, Callum and Rìan, his brothers and sisters Eileen, Seán, Seamus, Eamon, Tim, Catherine and Noel, the extended family, neighbours and many friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Tom’s remains reposed at the Horkan Funeral Home, Charlestown, on last Monday evening. Removal from his home on took place on Tuesday to St James's Church Charlestown for funeral Mass at 11am followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. May he rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Balla Secondary School senior footballers qualified for their fourth final in seven years with a 5 point win over Mountbellew in Bekan. After a close first half the Balla lads started the third quarter well and pulled away from the dogged Galway side before conceding a penalty with the last kick of the game. This now sets up a mouth-watering final against Gortnor Abbey on Saturday, February 14. Best wishes to all.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, January 22, in The Rendezvous for a jackpot of €7,700. 2, 10, 11and 23 were the numbers drawn. The €30 consolation prize winners were Judy Boyle (Online), Paul Galvin (Online) and Joseph Lloyd (Online).The latest draw was held in on last Thursday the 29th of January in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €7,800. Balla GAA congratulate Adam Jennings who has been selected for the Mayo Minor panel 2026. This is a very proud moment for the club as Adam’s hard work, skill and dedication is exemplary.
A spring gardening course will commence on Saturday, February 14, and will continue fortnightly for seven classes. The course will cover 3 months approx. of the growing season and will be of huge interest to gardeners. Contact Sheona at 087 1850860 for further information.
The death has occurred of Joe Higgins, 17 Cnoc na Nlur, Mayo Abbey, Claremorris and late of Knockaunakill. Joe passed away peacefully at the Mayo Hospice, Castlebar surrounded by his loved ones. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Bridget, his beloved wife Kathleen, infant daughter Patricia and son Michael, he is deeply regretted by his daughters Mary and Breege, son John-Joe and his partner Michelle, sons-in-law Ned and Seán, grandchildren Alexander, Thomas, Conor and Niamh, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours to whom sincere condolences are extended.
His remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on the Saturday evening and removal took place on Sunday morning to The Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace and St. Gerald, Mayo Abbey for Mass at 10am. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in the local cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
First Holy Communion will be held in St Cronan’s Church, Balla on Saturday, May 16, at 11am. Confirmation will take place in Balla Church on Wednesday, May 6, at 12pm.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €4,700 for last Sunday nights, February 1, draw. The club are deeply grateful for the support of patrons.
An enrolment evening for Manulla National School takes place on Wednesday, February 11, from 7 to 8pm for pupils and their families. For enquiries email secretary@manullans.ie or call 094 9032010.
Would you like to join a group of friendly, enthusiastic people interested in sewing? Come along every Monday from 10 to 1pm and have a cuppa and a chat while you sew. All levels are made welcome from beginners to seasoned stitchers. If interested get in touch with Josie on 085 1401229 or contact a member of staff in the centre on 087 1850860.
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A fantastic atmosphere was relished by a packed room at the Lough Carra Catchment Association public meeting in Clogher Community Centre on a recent Tuesday night. The strong attendance and engaged discussion were a real reminder of how much Lough Carra means to community.
Sincere thanks to the guest speaker Michael Kingdon for his inspirational talk, “Upstream of Annies: Life on Clogher Bog”. A special welcome was extended to Nicola Byrne, the new Lough Carra LIFE Project Manager, who provided an update on the LIFE Project. Heartfelt thanks to Ann Marie Meaney for her role as acting project manager in the interim. Thanks also to Chris Huxley for sharing updates on recent LCCA activities.
The Holy Angels National School is holding an open day for the school year ‘26/27 on next Friday from 12 noon to 2pm. For further information please call the office on 094 9360316 or email principal@holyangelsns.ie.
Clogher Active Age Group has returned for 2026 and already the group are planning for outings, projects and classes for the coming year. The group meet every Wednesday morning at 11 am at the Clogher Community Centre. A bus service is also available for people who might like to avail of it.
Card results for Friday, January 23; 1st Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons, Martin Moran and Mary McDonagh and 3rd Mary Moran and Pat Griffith. The last 10 winners were Bernie Heneghan and Eileen Donnelly shared with Gay Conway and Joe Thomas. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Congratulations to Walter Hughes Jnr of Carnacon who is the January 2026 winner of the Clogher 500 draw. Walter won the monthly prize of €500. Well done also to Noreen Roche the recent Instagram winner of two free 500 club tickets. There is still time to join the 500 club to be in 12 annual draws for the chance to win €500.
Yoga classes have commenced in Clogher Community Hall on Wednesdays. Contact Fiona on 086 3310012 for further information.
Errew National School has a unique caring learning environment where children are encouraged to develop their full potential in a nurturing environment and become part of a whole school family. Located only 7km and 10 minutes from Castlebar the school has recently been upgraded with safe, off road access and easy parent parking. School bus pending! The breakfast club and after school facility is located directly opposite the school in Errew Community Centre only a few steps away! Contact the secretary on office@errewns.com or 094 9030615 for all enquiries or to request a visit to come and see the school, including outside of school hours.
Chair Yoga with Ann has started on Wednesdays from 7-8pm in Errew Community Centre. The fees are €10 per session. Contact Eileen Conway on 087 9227567 for more information and to book your place.
