Local Notes: Claremorris event to remember father and daughter
The Warde family will hold a fundraiser in September in memory of Greg and Natasha, who both passed away in the last year. Pictured, from left, are Greg, twins Aisling and Natasha, and Anne Warde. Picture: John Corless
The Warde family is organising a fundraising night at Warde’s Pub in Claremorris in memory of Greg and Natasha Warde, who both passed away within the last year.
The event on Saturday, September 12, will raise funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice and the Oncology Department at Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar in recognition of the care and support provided to Greg, Natasha and their family during periods of illness.
Organisers said the fundraiser will reflect the atmosphere both Greg and Natasha enjoyed most, with music, conversation, entertainment and community gathering at the centre of the evening.
The family described the event as an opportunity for people to come together to remember loved ones, share memories and support services that continue to assist families throughout the region.
Further details and updates about the fundraiser will be shared in the coming weeks, with organisers encouraging people to support the event and keep the date free.
Congratulations have been extended to Claremorris No Name Club host Simona Gaubyte following her success at the National No Name Club Awards held in the Tullamore Court Hotel, where she was named National Host of the Year.
The award recognises her contribution and commitment to the local club and its work with young people in the community.
The achievement comes as Claremorris No Name Club prepares to take part in a series of volunteering webinar information sessions running from May 26th to May 28th at 7.30pm each evening.
The sessions are aimed at people interested in becoming involved with an existing No Name Club or helping to establish a new club in their area. Organisers say the initiative focuses on supporting young people, encouraging positive choices and promoting community involvement.
No Name Club is a national youth organisation founded in 1978 and operates clubs throughout the country.
Claremorris Golf Club hosted its President’s (Anthony Hennelly) Prize competition with strong scoring across both the men’s and ladies’ categories.
In the men’s competition, Peter Collins claimed first place with 101 nett, followed by Evan Hennelly on 102 nett. Pat Killeen secured the gross prize with a score of 76. Martin Murphy finished third on 102.5 nett, while Rossa Higgins took fourth place with 103.5 nett. Ray Woolley placed fifth with 104 nett and Eoin Deeney finished sixth on 105 nett following a back nine countback. Dave Kilkenny won the Final 9 prize with 33.5 nett, while Willie Feeley claimed the Men’s Past Captains' prize with 73 nett.
In the ladies’ section, Bernie Divilly won first place with 68 nett ahead of Rebecca Kean on 69 nett. Sarah Gallagher took the gross prize with a score of 86. Angela Prenty finished third with 72 nett, Mary Collins was fourth with 73 nett and Marina Reilly placed fifth with 74 nett on countback. Ina Hennelly won the Lady Past Presidents' prize with 81 nett. In the Ladies 9-Hole competition, Mary Coleman took first place with 22 points, while Cathy Doolan finished second with 19 points.
Claremorris community Garda John Monaghan is preparing to undertake a 340-kilometre charity cycle in memory of Saoirse Duggan, the young Claremorris girl who passed away in June 2025 following illness.
The event, titled ‘Saoirse’s Sunshine Cycle’, will take place on June 20th, as part of the international 'Chase The Sun' endurance cycling event. Garda Monaghan will begin the cycle at sunrise in Belfast at 4.45am and aims to complete the journey to Enniscrone before sunset at 10.15pm.
Saoirse was an Honorary Garda with the Little Blue Heroes Foundation and Garda Monaghan described her as his “little blue buddy”. Funds raised through the cycle will go towards supporting the work of the Little Blue Heroes Foundation, a charity that assists families of children living with serious illnesses throughout Ireland.
Founded in 2017, the organisation is led by serving and retired Garda members along with volunteers from local communities. The charity provides practical and financial support to families while also granting children the opportunity to become Honorary Gardaí.
St Colman’s College also expressed support for the fundraiser, describing Garda Monaghan as a valued friend of the school who regularly visits students to offer guidance and advice. The school wished him well ahead of the challenge and encouraged support for the fundraising effort.
Donations can be made through www.idonate.ie.
Taugheen Playgroup Ltd is inviting parents, guardians and families to attend a special Open Day on Tuesday, June 2, offering an opportunity to see the playgroup in action and learn more about the services available for young children in the area.
The event will take place from 5pm to 7pm at the Taugheen Playgroup premises and will showcase the warm, welcoming and child-centred environment provided by the facility. Catering for children aged two years and upwards, the playgroup aims to create a fun, friendly and caring atmosphere where children can learn, develop and grow through play and interaction.
Organisers say the open day will give families a chance to meet staff, explore the facilities and gain a better understanding of the daily activities and learning experiences on offer. ECCE places are also currently available, making the event particularly valuable for parents considering early years options for the coming term.
Claremorris Musical Society is celebrating a record-breaking year after receiving five nominations at the Association of Irish Musical Societies Awards for its recent production of . The nominations mark the highest number received by the society in a single year and come as the group prepares for its 20th production in 2027.
The production earned a nomination in the Sullivan Category for Best Visual, recognising the set, costumes, props and special effects used throughout the show. Mary Dempsey received a nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her portrayal of Mrs. Bucket, while Nicole Scott was nominated for Best Comedienne for her performance as Mrs Gloop. The society also received two Outstanding Youth Performance nominations for Michael Farrell and Abbie Flatley for their roles as Mike Teavee and Violet Beauregarde.
AIMS adjudicator Pat McElwain described the production as “a wonderful production by Claremorris Musical Society” and praised several of the performances in his assessment of the show. He described Mary Dempsey’s role as being performed with sincerity, commended Nicole Scott’s comic performance and referred to Michael Farrell’s contribution as “an astonishingly good performance”. He also praised Abbie Flatley for her stage presence and vocal performance.
Chairperson Vivienne Lee said the society was “absolutely thrilled and immensely proud” to receive the nominations and acknowledged the work carried out by performers, production teams, committee members and backstage volunteers.
Special recognition was also given to the production team, including director Donna Ruane, musical director Deirdre Lee and choreographer Jay Molyneux. Donna also received a Best Director nomination for her work with Castlebar Musical and Dramatic Society.
The black tie AIMS Awards Banquet will take place at the INEC in Killarney on August 13th.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre continues to host weekly Grow Mental Health Peer Support Meetings each Wednesday from 11am to 1pm. The meetings provide a supportive environment for people wishing to share experiences, listen and connect with others in the community. Further information is available by calling 094-9377838 or by emailing info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
The centre is also supporting awareness activities for Period Dignity Day, which will take place across County Mayo on May 28th, 2026. The initiative aims to promote inclusion, respect and greater understanding of menstrual health while encouraging open discussion around the topic.
A number of information events are planned in Ballyhaunis and Claremorris, while an awareness stand will also be present at the Mayo Pride Festival in Westport.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre, located on Mount Street, also provides a free and confidential citizens information service with qualified staff. Additional services available include photocopying, lamination, binding and access to information supports. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm.
The Western Hotel will host the Micheál Hanley Memorial Darts Cup on Saturday, June 13, with an exciting evening of competition and entertainment for darts enthusiasts and supporters alike.
The event, which gets underway at 5pm, will feature both Ladies’ and Gents’ competitions, welcoming players of all abilities to take part in honour of the late Micheál Hanley. Organisers are expecting a strong turnout for the memorial tournament, which has become a much-anticipated social and sporting occasion on the local calendar.
An entry fee of €10 will apply, with the draw for matches taking place at 5pm sharp. Alongside the competitive action, attendees can look forward to a lively atmosphere and a great evening’s entertainment at the popular venue.
The tournament aims not only to celebrate the spirit of darts within the community, but also to remember and pay tribute to Micheál Hanley in a fitting and enjoyable way.
Louise Murphy was the winner of the Claremorris AFC 50/50 draw last week, taking home €500. Louise purchased the winning ticket in Warde’s.
The club congratulated Louise on the win and thanked all who continue to support the weekly fundraiser, with proceeds helping to support teams, coaching and the ongoing development of the club. Tickets remain available online and through local shops and pubs.
JJ Fitzpatrick was the winner of the Claremorris GAA Club 50/50 draw last week, collecting the guaranteed top prize of €2,000. JJ bought the winning ticket in O’Brien’s.
The club congratulated JJ on the win and expressed sincere appreciation to everyone who continues to support the draw. Proceeds contribute towards facilities, underage coaching and future development projects. Tickets continue to be sold online and through local retailers and pubs each week.
A family fundraiser in support of the Children’s Health Foundation will take place in Claremorris on this Saturday, May 30th. The event will be held at Tesco Claremorris from 10am to 3pm and will include a range of activities for children and families. Entertainment on the day will feature Nancy the Clown, music, dancing and a DJ, along with face painting and other activities.
A cake sale and raffle will also take place, with a selection of prizes on offer.
Organisers are encouraging families to attend and support the event, with all proceeds going towards the Children’s Health Foundation.
The death has occurred of Nancy McCormack of Rockview House, Convent Road, Claremorris, and formerly of Ardara, Charlestown. Nancy died suddenly at her residence. She was predeceased by her parents John and Nora (née Durkan), sister Una Begley, brothers Brendan and Tommy, and sister-in-law Mary.
Nancy will be sadly missed by her heartbroken family, brothers Peter (Ardara, Charlestown) and Joe (Balla), sister Margaret Flannelly (Easkey), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Nancy’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Monday evening, May 18th with removal to St Colman’s Church, Claremorris. Nancy’s Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday afternoon, May 19th, followed by burial afterwards in Bushfield Cemetery, Charlestown.
May she rest in peace.
