Local Notes: Claremorris students present new musical
Pictured are the cast members from the Mount St Michael Secondary School musical with (on right) principal Ciarán Ryan and Transitiion Year co-ordinator Therese Moran and (on left) Elly Cazabon-Regan (Director and Choreographer) and Siobhán Shaughnessy (Musical Director). Picture: Trish Forde
Mount St Michael Secondary School, in association with St Colman’s College, will present ‘The Band’, a lively musical later this month.
The production tells the story of five teenage friends brought together by their shared love of music, whose lives take unexpected turns when they reunite years later. Filled with laughter, nostalgia and emotion, ‘The Band’ celebrates friendship, dreams and the music that shapes our lives.
Featuring many of Take That’s greatest hits, including , , , and , the show promises to deliver an evening of energy, humour and outstanding performances from the talented students of both schools.
Performances will take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, October 21, 22 and 23, at Claremorris Town Hall. Doors open at 7pm, with show time at 8pm. Tickets and further information are available by phoning 094-9310999.
Claremorris Colts RFC will host a Race Night with Auction on Saturday, October 18, in Killeen’s Bar, Claremorris. The event promises to be a great social evening for players, members, and supporters of the club.
Race sponsorship opportunities are available, and anyone interested is asked to contact Siobhan on 086-2412216. Further details about the event will be announced shortly, and supporters are encouraged to keep an eye on the club’s social media channels for updates.
Hollymount Carramore GAA Club is gearing up to host its annual Trick or Treat Party in aid of the Children’s Health Foundation. The event takes place on Monday, October 27, from 3 to 6pm in Hollymount Hall.
The afternoon promises plenty of family-friendly fun, including games, goodies, and ghostly goings-on for ghouls, goblins, witches, and all children who come along. Donations will be collected at the door, with all proceeds going to support Children’s Health Ireland hospitals in Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght, and Connolly.
For more information or to donate, visit www.childrenshealth.ie.
Hollymount LGFA marked a major milestone last weekend with a memorable celebration of the club’s 40th anniversary in Cois Abhann Hall. The evening was filled with storytelling, laughter, and nostalgia as past and present players, mentors, and supporters came together to reflect on four decades of ladies’ football in the parish.
A highlight of the night was the launch of a special commemorative book chronicling the club’s history, edited by local journalist and author Óisín McGovern. The publication, which proved hugely popular on the night, can still be purchased at Hollymount Stores and Corrib Oil Ballinrobe.
The committee expressed sincere thanks to everyone who attended the event, describing it as “a night of friendship, memories, and community spirit — a true celebration of Hollymount football".
Cúram Family Centre in Claremorris has a busy schedule of events and activities this October, offering something for everyone in the community.
Two Autumn cookery demonstrations will take place today, Tuesday, October 14 and Tuesday, October 28, at 10.30am, featuring wholesome and nourishing winter dishes. The cost is €10 per morning and booking is essential as places are limited. To reserve a spot, contact Cúram on 094-9362096.
The Parent and Toddler Club continues every Friday morning at 10.30am, offering parents and young children a friendly space to meet, chat, and play.
The Claremorris Farmers’ Haggart event will take place on Monday, October 13, at 8pm. The evening aims to unite farming communities in a spirit of cooperation and wellbeing, promoting a safer, more inclusive and enjoyable farming life. Tea and refreshments will be served, and attendees can enter a draw for a luxury stay at a Só Hotel.
Meanwhile, the Autism Parent Peer Support Group meets at 7pm on the third Wednesday of each month, with the next meeting on October 15. Parents, guardians and grandparents are welcome to attend for peer support, a chat and a cup of tea. A contribution of €2 per person applies.
Cúram is also gathering expressions of interest for a new round of Sign Language classes, with dates to be confirmed soon. Anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch with the centre.
For all bookings and enquiries, contact Cúram Family Centre, Claremorris, on 094-9362096.
It has been a few weeks to remember for Claremorris student and footballer Kyle Gleeson, who celebrated two major achievements both on and off the field.
A first-year student at St Colman’s College, Kyle won gold in the Combined Events in Athlone last week, finishing first overall in the First Year category. It was an outstanding performance that reflected his dedication and athletic ability.
Adding to his success, Kyle has also signed for the Galway United Academy for the coming season. He will join up with the Under-14 squad for next season.
A long-time member of Claremorris AFC’s Academy, Kyle has enjoyed success at every age level and is now set to take the next step in his football journey.
Claremorris AFC said it was proud to have supported Kyle’s development and wished him continued success as he joins the Galway United Under-14 squad. Both his school and club congratulated him on his achievements, describing it as a proud moment for all involved in his sporting and academic life.
Warm congratulations to former Garrymore senior player Kieran Cunningham and Christine who were married last week. The club sends them every good wish for a long and happy life together.
Best wishes also to senior player Caolan Crowe and his wife Becky on the birth of their baby boy Seánie - and congratulations to proud big sister Leah.
Meanwhile, Megan Commins and Fintan Forde will take on the Irish Life Dublin Marathon on Sunday, October 26, in aid of Childline by ISPCC and Daisy Lodge4Mayo.
Donations can also be made online for Fintan Forde’s Daisy Lodge campaign and Megan Commins’s efforts for Childline at Eventmaster. All support is greatly appreciated.
Facefield National School is gearing up for a week of community events this October, inviting locals to come together for fun, music, and fundraising.
The first event is a table quiz in aid of school activities and student facilities, taking place on Friday, October 24, at 8.30pm in the Dalton Inn Hotel. Teams of four are welcome to join for an evening of challenging quiz questions, raffle prizes, and entertainment. The entry fee is €10 per person, payable on the night, and those wishing to reserve a team spot can contact Conor at 087-6346189 or via email at con79trainra@gmail.com.
All funds raised will go directly towards supporting the school, enhancing facilities and extracurricular opportunities for students.
The following Monday, October 27, Facefield NS will host a festive Halloween Concert. The evening will feature performances by Macvey, Ann Jordan, and friends, with a special guest appearance by Gerry Carney. Doors open at 8pm and entry is €5. A raffle will also take place on the night, with proceeds supporting Facefield First Responders and the local community group.
Both events promise to be lively, community-focused evenings, offering plenty of entertainment while supporting worthy local causes. All are warmly invited to attend and join in the fun.
Harvest Moon Theatre Group, a community-based amateur theatre company in Claremorris, is inviting local residents to get involved in its upcoming productions. The group contests the All-Ireland drama competitions and tours the country.
Harvest Moon is particularly looking for volunteers to join its backstage team, with opportunities available for a sound desk operator, lighting rigger and operator, and stage crew. Previous experience is not required, as training and support can be provided.
The group is keen to hear from anyone with an interest in theatre, whether in technical roles or in other areas such as acting, costumes, props, set building, or front of house. This is an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, and be part of creating live theatre for the local community.
Those interested are encouraged to contact the group through their social media channels for more information.
Claremorris Ladies will play senior football for the first time in 2026 after securing a historic victory over MacHale Rovers in the Mayo LGFA Intermediate Football Championship Final at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park on Sunday week last. The final score was 1-16 to 2-10.
The East Mayo side won by three points after a thrilling contest that showcased their blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience. The victory marks another milestone in Claremorris’s rapid rise from junior champions in 2022 to intermediate winners and now a senior team for the very first time.
It was far from a dream start for Claremorris. MacHale Rovers opened in explosive fashion with Sinéad Walsh running half the length of the pitch to fire to the net after just 12 seconds. A Kayla Doherty free followed soon after, leaving Claremorris four points down in the early stages.
But they regrouped quickly. Inspired by the leadership of Bree Hession, Laura Keane, Amy Cummins, and Ashleagh Salmon, Claremorris began to settle. Laura’s composed finish to the net after five minutes gave the side belief.
Points from Alana Fitzpatrick and Ashleagh Salmon helped Claremorris edge in front before half-time, and they never relinquished that lead.
The second half was defined by Claremorris’s defensive resolve. Their work rate, organisation, and willingness to put bodies on the line proved crucial as they held inter-county forward Walsh to just 1-3, cutting off the supply lines that had caused so much early damage.
Even when Annie Gough blasted home a stunning long-range goal deep into injury time to bring the gap back to two points, Claremorris didn’t panic. Bree Hession produced a crucial block moments later to deny another Rovers score, before Laura Kelly sealed the win with a composed point at the other end.
At the final whistle, scenes of pure joy erupted among players, mentors, and supporters as captain Eilis Higgins lifted the cup - the club’s first ever intermediate title.
“Hopefully our journey isn’t over yet,” Eilis told the crowd, as her teammates celebrated.
Claremorris now turn their focus to the Connacht Championship, carrying momentum, belief, and a growing sense that this team is only getting started.
The club extended thanks to Gerry Walsh for supplying the team tops and to Christy Phillips for sponsoring the post-match meal.
St Colman’s College has taken a creative and meaningful step to promote inclusion and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of its students and staff. Following a recent project, the school was delighted to discover that 21 different nationalities are represented within its community.
To mark this diversity, flags from each of these countries are now proudly displayed in the school’s lunchroom. The nations represented include the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Spain, Brazil, the USA, Switzerland, France, Germany, Latvia, Portugal, South Africa, Italy, Slovakia, China, India, Poland, Lithuania, Pakistan, Croatia, Ukraine, and, of course, Ireland.
The brackets supporting the flags were designed in ‘SolidWorks’ and 3D-printed by a group of talented second-year students - Callum Reilly, Kevin Staunton, Nathan Rudiger Cosgrove, Devin Kelly, and Cillian Dunleavy - under the guidance of DCG teacher Anthony Timoney. Their hard work and innovation were central to bringing the project to life.
Special thanks were also extended to Tommy Lydon, who took the time and effort to hang the flags in the lunchroom.
The project has been warmly welcomed across the school community.
“It’s a wonderful way to recognise and celebrate the different nationalities that make up St Colman’s,” a spokesperson said. “It reminds us of the richness and strength that diversity brings, while uniting everyone under the red and white flag of St Colman’s College.”
Congratulations to Aoife Mannion, winner of last week’s Claremorris GAA Club 50/50 draw. Aoife scooped a total of €1,251 with her ticket purchased online. The weekly draw continues to attract strong support both online and through local outlets and pubs in the town.
The club expressed its appreciation to all who entered, reminding supporters that every ticket sold helps fund player development, facilities and ongoing club improvements.
Claremorris and District Lions Club, in partnership with Claremorris Red Cross, will host a Diabetes Awareness Day on Saturday, October 25. Free blood glucose and blood pressure testing will be carried out in The Square, outside the Credit Union office, from 12 noon until 3pm.
The simple tests are designed to highlight if further medical attention may be required in relation to the possible onset of Type 2 Diabetes. This is the third year the two organisations have provided this service locally, with the majority of participants reassured by their results.
The Claremorris Drama Society is staging Walter Macken’s acclaimed play, , this autumn, offering a series of performances across the region.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s' Ireland, delves into themes of redemption, belonging, and the often-unseen struggles within family life. The production aims to deliver a compelling and reflective theatrical experience.
The final show takes place in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris, on Friday next, October 17, at 8pm.
Tickets are available at €15, with a reduced rate of €10 for students and OAPs.
The Claremorris Drama Society encourages the community to attend and support local theatre while engaging with this notable piece of Irish drama.
Music lovers will have a special treat this October as local singer-songwriter Gerry Carney and his band take to the stage at the Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea. The concert, featuring a guest appearance by Frank McCaffrey, promises an evening of memorable music and entertainment.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, with doors opening at 7.30pm and the show starting at 8.00pm. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure their seats for this highly anticipated performance.
Tickets are available at several local outlets, including Hillside Service Station in Claremorris, The Gem in Ballyhaunis, and Cahill’s SuperValu in Castlerea. Tickets can also be purchased online via eventbrite.ie.
This event is sure to draw a large crowd, so attendees are advised to book early. For more information, visit the event's official page on Facebook or the ticketing website.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre continues to offer a wide range of activities aimed at promoting well-being, connection, and community spirit.
Those interested in gentle movement and relaxation can take part in Somatics, a class designed to encourage mindful movement, body awareness and stress relief. Sessions take place on Mondays from 12.00 noon to 1pm and again from 7 to 8pm. For further information, contact John Roe on 087-749 5573.
Also on Mondays, the centre hosts Mindfulness classes, providing participants with simple yet effective techniques to reduce stress, enhance focus and bring balance to the week ahead. Classes run from 2 to 3pm at a cost of €15 per session. Enquiries can be made by phoning 094-9377838.
The Claremorris Men’s Shed continues to thrive as a welcoming space for men to share skills, ideas and friendship while making a positive contribution to the community.
The group meets from Monday to Thursday between 10.30am and 2pm. For more details, contact claremorrismg@gmail.com or phone 087-9252483.
The death has occurred of Anne (Nano) Gill (née Campbell) of Ivy House, Scardaune, Claremorris, and formerly of Croagh Patrick House, Murrisk, Westport.
Anne passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 6, surrounded by her loving family.
Anne was predeceased by her brothers Owen, Patrick, Thomas and Michael, and her sister Mary Fitzpatrick. She will be sadly missed by her beloved husband Andy, dear children James, Dello (Dunmore), Yvonne (Naas) and Andrew (Barnaderg), daughters-in-law Mary and Emma, son-in-law Kevin, partner Michael, sister-in-law Maurdette Heaney, adored grandchildren Aoife, Nathan, Aaron, Ryan, Colin, James, Caoimhe, Saoirse, Aoibhínn, Iarlaith, Mia and Noah, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Anne’s remains reposed at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Lower James Street, Claremorris, on Wednesday evening last with removal to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Crossboyne, on Thursday morning for Requiem Mass followed by burial in Crossboyne Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Mary Kenny (née McDermott) of Bishopsgate, Watergrasshill, Co Cork, and formerly of Newbrook, Hollymount. Mary passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday last, surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was the beloved wife of the late Willie and a much-loved mother to Gráinne (Lynch), Fergal, and Niamh (Walsh). She was a cherished grandmother to Liam, Maeve, Locky, Aela and Joe, and will also be deeply missed by her sons-in-law David and Michael, adored brothers and sisters, their spouses, nephews, nieces, relatives, kind neighbours, exceptional carers and many friends.
Mary’s remains reposed at her home in Bishopsgate, Watergrasshill on Thursday afternoon last with prayers later that evening. Her Requiem Mass took place on Friday at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Watergrasshill, followed by burial beside her beloved Willie in Ballinaltig Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
