Local Notes: Clogher Heritage Centre upgrade.
Adam Blazei and Pawel Kusczuk of Thatching Services pictured at the freshly Thatched Heritage Centre at Newtown, Clogher.
The death has taken place of Bridie O’Toole, née Hynes, Pike Bridge, Maynooth, Co. Kildare and late of Ballintubber, Co. Mayo Bridie passed away on January 19 peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife of the late Pat and mother of the late Padraic and Peter, she is deeply regretted by her loving sons Liam and John, daughters Marie and Helena, sons-in-law Bernard and John-Paul, daughters-in-law Bairbre and Dearbháil, brother Noel, sister-in-law Teresa, her adored 11 grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends in Maynooth and Ballintubber.
Her remains reposed at her residence on last Wednesday with evening prayers at 7pm. The removal from her residence took place on Thursday, January 22 and arrived at St. Mary’s Church, Maynooth for 11am Funeral Mass. Bridie’s remains were then conveyed to Ballintubber Abbey for evening prayers at 6pm. Her Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday last at 12 noon followed by burial ceremonies in Ballintubber Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €6,400 on Sunday night, January 18 in the Drum Inn. The numbers drawn were 16, 22, 24 and 33. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Claire Gallagher, Amelia Brown, Aoife Flaherty, Damien Coleman, Michael Fox and Anna and Aoife Flaherty. The jackpot stood at €6,500 on last Sunday night, January 25. Play Ballintubber lotto at: https://member.clubspot.app/.../ballintubber-gaa/fundraisers.
There was no winner of the €15,900 jackpot in the Ballyglass Lotto draw held on Monday, January 19, in the clubhouse. The numbers drawn from the drum were 5, 21, 24 and 31. Nora Conroy matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Liam Hughes, Jimmy Hession, Michael Conroy and Emma Staunton. The weekend draw had a jackpot of €16,000 up for grabs.
The results from Monday, January 19:1st Tomás Solan and Philip White, 2nd Noel Costello and Dave Gibbons; Mary White and Breege Jennings and 3rd Margaret Mannion and Patricia Jennings. The best of last 10 prizes went to Sean Reilly and Seamus Hughes and the raffle winners also were Sean Reilly and Seamus Hughes. Card games continue every Monday night in Ballyglass Community Centre from 9pm.
A First Aid course will take place in Ballyglass Community Centre on Tuesday, February 3, from 10am to 1pm. All are welcome to attend and there is no charge.
A new series of art classes started last night Monday, January 26, in Ballyglass Community Centre. Contact Nora on 087 9729672 for further information.
Congratulations to Marc and Marie Brennan on the birth of their baby daughter, Éabha last month. Her big sister Cadhla is taking great care of her. Welcome to the world, little Éabha. Best wishes to all the family.
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 on 087 464 6495 or email secretary.ballintubber.mayo@gaa.ie.
The 2026 Ballintubber Abbey Calendar features stunning images of the Abbey, the grounds and the cloister and is a perfect keepsake or gift. Every calendar sold goes directly to the Preservation and Restoration Fund, helping restore and protect the sacred Abbey that has stood strong for over 800 years. Buy yours in-store at the gift shop, or order online and get it posted out. When visiting Ballintubber Abbey don’t miss the guided tour. Expert guides will take you through over 800 years of history - from St. Patrick’s footsteps to the legacy of the Pirate Queen. Discover the stories, architecture and spirituality that make the Abbey one of Ireland’s hidden gems. Don’t forget to enjoy the peaceful outdoor grounds, see the Visitor Centre and browse at the Gift Shop.
St Brigid’s Crosses will be on sale in the Abbey on Sunday, February 1, in aid of Fr Shane’s Charity Apostolic Society of the Most Trinity. Candles are available in the Abbey Shop to purchase for Candlemas Day.
Enrolment for Mountpleasant NS school year 2026/27 will open on Monday, February 2, and closes on Monday, March 2. If you wish to enrol your child, email mountpleasantns@gmail.com or phone 094 9360125. All are welcome to the open evening on February 3 at 7pm in the school. Enrolment packs can be collected at the school.
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.
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The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, January 24, stood at €20,000. 4, 7, 17 and 29 were the numbers drawn on Sunday night, January 17, 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.
Knitting Circle meets on Mondays from 7.30 - 9.30pm. 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 in the Saturday morning Park Run which takes place at 9.30am at Tourmakeady woods - join in at your own pace. Please support the local club.
On Wednesday, January 28, Irish classes for beginners runs from 11 to 12 noon. The Ciorcal Comhrá (Conversation Circle) runs from 12 to 1am in Halla Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Also on Thursday, January 29, ranganna do thosaitheoirí (class for beginners), runs from 6 to 7pm – and the ciorcal comhrá (conversation circle) from 7 to 8pm. Ar fad in aisce - free course.
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.
Recent winners of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser draws were Saturday, January 3, ball 31, James and Linda Seoighe. Congratulations and many thanks to all for supporting the fundraiser draws. If you wish to take part in the weekly draw the cost is €100 for six months. Persons who are willing to support, contact the school via phone 094 95 44088 or email - snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com.
Coláiste Muire, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh school reunion will be held in the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, on Sunday, February 1, at 7pm. Whether you are a past pupil, former or current staff member, family member, or friend of the school it would be wonderful to see you there. Tickets are available via the website and social media channels. For further information, contact the school: pc@colaistemuire.eu 094 9544107.
Coláiste Muire, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh school reunion will be held in the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, on Sunday, February 1, at 7pm. Whether you are a past pupil, former or current staff member, family member, or friend of the school it would be wonderful to see you there. Tickets are available via the website and social media channels. For further information, contact the school: pc@colaistemuire.eu 094 9544107.
Acres West Connacht is now hiring 4 commonage surveyors for the coming season. If you want to spend your summer in scenic landscapes gathering valuable data on the condition of the habitats in the West of Ireland then apply here: https://www.acreswestconnacht.ie/careers.
A sewing class was scheduled to commence in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on last Thursday, January 22. The course was due to run for 6 weeks. If interested call 087 7657191.
Partry AFC numbers draw is held on Wednesday nights weekly. Recent draw winners were Sharon and Tom Staunton. The club are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of patrons.
Events in Partry Community Centre - Bingo takes place every Monday at 8.30, 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 Ann and Tim Foley. 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.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Ann Lally, Derrendafderg on the recent passing of her sister, Kathleen Guthrie, Castlebar. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
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 are 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.
The OPW are currently hiring seasonal tour guides at numerous sites nationwide. If you are passionate about history, heritage and storytelling apply today by visiting: https://heritageireland.ie/recruitment/.
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’s a free support service and open to anyone in need. For further details email: gawarenesstacufrc@gmail.com or 087 7005811.
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In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on January 18, were 20, 21, 23 and 28.There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The consolation prizewinners were Dermot Flatley, John Nestor, Emile Payne and Mandy Morrin. The weekend jackpot stood at €4,900 on Sunday last, January 25.
Congratulations to Emily Nestor who proudly represented Belcarra Foróige in the Mayo Foróige finals recently and emerged as the overall winner, taking home the O’Hara Bakery Perpetual Cup. Well done Emily - what a fantastic achievement.
The winners of the January card game in Belcarra Centre were; 1st, Tom Welsh and Mary McGough, 2nd, Michael Giblin and Tom Ansboro and Tony and Francis Lohan, 3rd, Jimmy Connor and Michael Carney. The winners of the last 9 were; Judy Clarke, Sean Staunton and Kitty Rumley and Jimmy Hughes. The raffle prizes went to Rita Armstrong, Conor Heaney and Michael Costello. The February 25 drive will be held in the Centre on Monday night, February 2.
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.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Peggy Flatley, Carrajames, on the recent passing of her brother, Pat Buckley, Manchester. May he rest in peace.
A great new class for children is starting in Belcarra Community Centre. Get in touch with Caroline to book your child’s place. Kid’s country line dancing will take every Friday from 6.30 to 7.30 in Belcarra Centre. The fees are £10 per class and the classes will cater from 7 year olds to 6th class. What’s App 087 1361976 for details.
Would you be interested in sharing your home and supporting a person with a disability for a few hours, per week or month or more regular? Western Care is looking for people, singles, couples, families to provide respite breaks for children and adults across Co Mayo, in your own home. If you are interested or would like further information, contact Ruth Kneafsey, Home Share Coordinator on 094 9029148.
The numbers drawn on January 20, were, 13, 15, 17 and bonus number 8. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at £19,000 on this Tuesday night, January 27. Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA.
Why not join your local CFR group to help your neighbours and friends when they need you most. The group have moved training to Ballintubber Community Hall in the hope to gather more volunteers. If you have any queries or questions reach out to 087 9846401.
Irish Dancing Classes in Ballyheane Community Centre returned back last week on Tuesdays from 6.30pm-7.30pm catering for ages 4+. Contact Molly Hughes TCRG on 087 6562094. Classes are ideal for competitions, grade exams, displays, shows, fitness and fun.
Mayo County Council are inviting applications for the General Municipal Allocation (GMA) Funding for 2026 under the following headings: 1 Residents Associations, 2 Clubs/Organisations 3 Festival and Events and 4 Burial Grounds. The deadline for applications is Friday, February 13.
Further info and forms: https://www.mayo.ie/news/gma-funding-2026.
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After a great turnout last year it has been announced that the Classic and Vintage Car Show is returning to Balla on Sunday, May 10. All are invited to come along and enjoy a fantastic display of vintage and classic cars, meet fellow enthusiasts, and soak up the atmosphere. The location is Balla Mart Grounds, Co. Mayo F23 EC99. Vintage and Classic Cars welcome.
The death took place last week of Tom McNicholas, Derryvohey, Balla, Co. Mayo. Tom passed away peacefully at his home and his passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many friends. Predeceased by his parents Patrick and Helena, his brother Fr Gerald (Gerry) McNicholas and brother-in-law Frank Devine (Carlow), Tom is deeply regretted by his sisters Maura Devine and Phil McDonnell, his brother-in-law Brendan, niece Paula, nephews Alan, Ian, Declan, Colm, Tony, grandnephews and grandnieces, extended family and his many friends to whom sincere condolences ate extended.
Tom’s remains reposed in O’Hora’s Funeral Home, Main Street, Kiltimagh, on last Wednesday evening with removal taking place to the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh. His Funeral Mass was celebrated on last Thursday, January 22, at 12 noon. Burial ceremonies took place in Kilkinure Cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, January 15, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €7,700. 17, 25, 31 and 33 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Julia McFadden (online), Fintan McKiernan (online) and Steve Gallagher (cash sale). The latest draw was held in on last Thursday, January 22, in The Rendezvous when the jackpot stood at €7,800. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws. All who intend to register as a Balla GAA member are requested to do so in good time. Registration is now open. Follow the link on the Club Facebook page.
Congrats to Riona Corrigan U14 did the green above red jersey proud and scored an impressive 1-02 for the Mayo ladies gaelic football team against Kildare. Congrats Riona and best of luck throughout the year with the Mayo U14 ladies.
Mayo-based act Train Room’s new single 'Old Dizzy' was scheduled for a January 23, release and it features Train Room’s unique sound with an eclectic inclusion of rock guitars, keyboards and drums. 'Old Dizzy' is the first single taken from the album, Station Road, by the Balla artist, singer songwriter Joe Monaghan. He is wished great success with the venture.
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.
Congratulations to Balla Secondary School U19 lads who beat Glenamaddy in the Connacht final on a scorline 3-1 at the Umbro Park, Castlebar. The elements were unforgiving at Milebush Park on Tuesday, but the football was of the highest order as Balla Secondary School claimed the Connacht schools senior boys title in a pulsating encounter against a resilient Glenamaddy side.
Congratulations to Balla secondary school senior footballers who powered into the Connacht GAA semi-final with a good win over Ballinamore recently. It was a solid team display in terrible weather conditions. The finals score was Balla 2-19, Ballinamore CS 3-06.
Taekwon-Do classes have commenced in Balla Community Centre once again this January on Thursdays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Book now atgmooney@taekwondo.ie.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €4,500 for last Sunday nights, January 25 draw. The club are deeply grateful for the support of Patrons.
Balla Centre has an exciting opportunity for a Full-Time Office Administrator. If you’re organised, friendly, and enjoy working in a fun, supportive environment, they would love to hear from you. The role involves: general office administration, answering phones and emails, supporting day-to-day operations, working as part of a positive, community-focused team, strong organisational and communication skills, a positive attitude and willingness to get involved and an ability to work independently and as part of a team. Send CVs and application letter to jobs@balla.ie.
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. 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 major refurbishment has been carried out this week at the Clogher Heritage Centre. The cottage has been completely rethatched thanks to Thatching Services (www.thatchingservices.eu) who have carried out the work to an extremely high standard and the cottage is once again back to its original beauty. The Heritage Centre is the hub for all the Clogher Bog walks and also for meetings and Heritage events throughout the year. The work that has been carried out this month will secure the cottage for the next 20 years or more. Many thanks Mayo Co Council who provided funding for this project and the committee of Clogher Environmental Group and the staff of the Community Employment Scheme.
The card results for Friday, January 16, are as follows: 1st Tommy Lyons and Jimmy Connor, 2nd Michael Giblin and Gus Sweeney, 3rd Margaret Mannion and Majella Corbett. The last 10 winners were Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahy. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Condolences are extended to the family of Liam O’Haire of Knockatemple, Clogher and late Fahybeg, Newport, whose death occurred recently. Liam is survived by his wife Maureen and his children Trevor, Jackie and Gary and their families, his brothers and sister and a wide circle of relatives, neighbours and friends. May he rest in peace.
Yoga classes have commenced in Clogher Community Hall on Wednesdays. Contact Fiona on 086 3310012 for further information.
The Clogher 500 Club is a local fundraising initiative run by Clogher Environmental Group. The Clogher 500 Club helps to maintain and support local projects all year around. Membership costs €60 per year (just €5 per month). Each member is entered into a monthly draw for €500. Contact any committee member; call/text 087 272 1574 or message through the Facebook page – Clogher Heritage Centre.https://clogherenvironmentalgroup.clubforce.com/products/membership.
