Local Notes: Enjoying the fare at Ballyglass Vintage Day.
Michael Duffy with his bicycle and Mike Gibbons enjoying the fare at the recent Ballyglass Vintage Day. Picture by Tom Quinn.
It is with deep sorrow we record the passing of Gerry Biggins, Deerpark, Clogher, Claremorris, Co Mayo. Gerry passed away peacefully at home after a long illness surrounded by his loving heartbroken family. His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his wife Una and their family who loved and attended to Gerry throughout his illness.
Predeceased by his parents Peg and Patrick, niece Maria and the deceased members of the Biggins and Staunton families, Gerry is deeply regretted and forever loved by his wife Una, daughters Rachel, Geraldine and Katie and by his son Luke, his sisters Mary and Dorothy, brothers Tom and John, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, relatives, wonderful neighbours and many friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
There was a large attendance present as his remains reposed at his home in Deerpark on last Thursday evening from 5pm until 7pm. The removal of his remains from his family home took place on Friday morning to Ballintubber Abbey for Funeral Mass at 12 noon with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
There was a huge attendance present in Corley’s Abbey Lodge on Saturday night week last to celebrate Alan Plunket’s 40th birthday. The Moorehall legend is married to Claire and the family currently live in Glencorrib. Alan, a teacher by profession, has given Ballintubber GAA Club over 30 years (since U10s) playing service and was a highly talented forward frequently among the top scorers in the county. He has five county senior championship medals and still serves the club as a member of the senior team management and as a junior player. His many friends wish the genial Alan and his family many more such happy occasions in the years ahead.
The Mayo Environmental Group, the Lough Carra Catchment Association, has expanded its series of informative guides exploring the many aspects of Lough Carra’s unique environment. Among the latest additions is their guide on water quality in Lough Carra. Presented in a clear and easy to access format, this publication explains what is affecting Lough Carra’s water quality, why it matters, and the ongoing work being done to protect and improve it. The guide outlines how, as recently as the 1970s, Lough Carra’s waters were still in a naturally low-nutrient state, its waters crystal clear. This booklet is essential reading for anyone who wants to see the lake thrive again, because it makes the science accessible and actionable for all. Accompanying the booklet is an updated map of the Lough Carra ‘Surface Water’ Catchment. These materials are part of the LCCA’s ongoing awareness-raising programme and are designed to help readers appreciate not only how much Lough Carra has to offer, but also the urgent need to halt the lake’s decline.
They are available free of charge at their public meetings and events, as well as for download from their website. For more information and to access the full range of free publications, visit www.loughcarra.org or email info@loughcarra.org.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Nan Higgins, Carnacon, on the death of her sister, Mary Smith, England. May she rest in peace.
Growing Minds Preschool is based in Carnacon village, Co Mayo (F12 NY38). They are now taking enrolments for ECCE September 2025 and the session times are: Monday to Friday, 9.15am-12.15pm.
This is a play-based learning curriculum, highly qualified and experienced staff, bright and engaging indoor and outdoor play areas, with a safe and nurturing environment. To enrol, or to arrange a visit, contact Claire Chapman on 085 705 2271 or email growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com.
The death has occurred in Manchester, England of Bridie Devlin (nee Farragher), Manchester and Clooncan, Hollymount. Sympathy is extended to her siblings, relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €10,900 on Sunday night, July 6. The numbers drawn were 14, 20, 25 and 35. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Debbie Loftus, John Hynes, Fr Michael Farragher, Laura Prendergast, Benny Scahill and Cathal Doherty. The jackpot stood at €11,000 on last Sunday night, July 13.
Ballintubber GAA Club has extended sincere sympathy to Michael Mulchrone and his family, on the recent passing of Michael’s mother, Catriona Mulchrone, Mulranny Rd, Newport, Co Mayo. Catriona passed away on July 5, surrounded by her loving family in the excellent care of the staff of the ICU ward Mayo University Hospital.
Predeceased by her son Sean, parents Mike and Molly O’Boyle and her sister Carmel, Catriona is deeply regretted by her husband Frank, sons David (Majella), Michael (Stella), Ronan (Louise), her seven grandchildren Dylan, James, Emma, Stephen, Callum, Aidan and Saibh, her sisters Mary, Bernadette and Angela, brothers Michael, Padraic, Martin and Gerard, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and her wide circle of friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Catriona’s remains reposed at St Dominick’s Funeral Home, Newport on last Tuesday, July 8. The removal of her remains from her residence took place on Wednesday, 9, July for Requiem Mass at 12 noon in St Patrick’s Church, Newport. Catriona was laid to rest afterwards in Burrishoole Cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Ballintubber GAA Club in association with the local community council is hosting a social night in Corley’s Abbey Lodge on next Saturday, July 19, to mark the recent retirement of Garda Tom Fleming. Tom has been based in Tourmakeady and Partry Garda stations over a number of years and has served all of the local communities from Finney to Ballyglass. It promises to be a great night. The event commences at 9pm. There is no admission charge.
The following are the results from Monday, July 7, Ballyglass FC Lotto draw. The numbers drawn were 16, 23, 31 and 32. There was no winner of the €13,100 jackpot and the Match 3 winner was Brendan Hughes. Consolation prizes went to Mike and Tina Maloney, Nuala Heneghan, Kathleen King, Jamie Flannery and Darragh Ruane.
Sincere condolences are tendered to Pat Warde, Carrowbrack, Ballyglass on the recent passing of his sister, Natasha Warde, Claremorris. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Winners from Monday, July 7, were: 1st Francie Conway and Denny McDonagh, 2nd Tomas Solan and Breege Jennings and 3rd Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion. The last 9 winners were Pat Griffith and Chris Turner and the raffle prizes went to Michael Loftus and Willie Davoren. Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all the players for their continued support. The 25 progressive games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
If you would like to be part of the group of volunteers who keep Ballyglass village looking its best, contact Breege on 087 6292164 to get your name added to the group. There is nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work, please turn out and help.
The next Ballyglass Market will be held on Saturday, August 23, in Ballyglass Community Centre. Save the date and net a bargain.
Tóchar Phádraig is a sacred pilgrim route from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick, following the ancient chariot road travelled by St. Patrick himself. Step onto a path walked for over 1,500 years. Guided walks bring you through stunning landscapes, fairy hills, and places steeped in legend and story.There is still time to book for the Tochar Walk on Reek Saturday, July 26. Join the group for one of the most special pilgrimages of the year as they journey the full 35km Tochar Phádraig route from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick. The distance is 35k from the start point: Ballintubber Abbey to the end Point: Croagh Patrick.
Check-in: from 8.15am at the Ballintubber Abbey Visitor Centre.
This is a unique spiritual and physical challenge, walking the ancient pilgrim path as generations have done before you. Snacks, water top-ups, back up support driver, and a strong sense of community prevalent. Booking is essential – limited places remain! Book your place today or message for more details. Book your walk online at: https://www.ballintubberabbey.ie/tochar-walks/.
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The annual Ceol Na Locha festival in Tuar Mhic Eadaigh will run this year from Monday, August 11, until Friday, August 15. Traditional music classes will run each day from 10am to 2pm with top tutors. Nighttime will see a vast array of entertainment, with traditional sessions and ceile’s in local venues around Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Details and bookings for all classes are available from 094 9544295. Bígí linn i dTuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Maigh Eo, le haghaidh féile bliantúil Ceol na Locha a bheas ar siúl i mbliana ón 11ú go dtí 15ú Lúnasa. Seachtain lán de cheoil traidisiúnta, damhsa, ealaín agus neart imeachtaí eile. Bígí linn le haghaidh seachtain lán do craic agus spraoí í nGaeltacht Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ar bhruach Loch Measca, beidh Céad Míle Fáilte romhaibh.
A social function will be held in Corley’s Abbey Lounge on Saturday, July 19, to mark the occasion of the recent retirement of Garda Tom Fleming who has served the communities of Ballintubber, Partry and Tourmakeady areas for many years. The event commences at 9pm. There is no admission charge. All are welcome.
Irish language classes Róisin Seoighe Irish Language Officer for Dhúiche Sheoigheach and Tuar Mhic Éadaigh has organised Irish classes on Wednesday mornings with beginners running from 11am to 12 and intermediate class from 12 to 1pm. The next class is on Wednesday, July 23. Persons who are interested can contact Róisin on 087 3970227 or email opt.cdst@gmail.com.
The annual Cemetery Mass at Churchfield will be on Friday, August 1, at 7.30pm and Tourmakeady will take place on Sunday, August 3, at 11.30am with Kilkeeran (Partry) on Monday, August 4, at 6pm. Grateful thanks have been extended to the Rural Social Scheme Participants for the upkeep and maintenance of both graveyards and for having them always looking so pristine. Míle buíochas do na rannphairtí ar an Scéím Sóisialta Tuaithe a choinníonn an féar gearrtha sa dhá reilig.
The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, July 12, stood at €18,000. 1, 10, 13, and 22 were the numbers drawn at the previous draw 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.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire running from July 21 to July 25 running from Monday to Friday. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady Churches. Interested persons are asked to please give you name to Fr Jarlath or email, partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady NS bonus ball number 5 was Siobhan and Brian Mhic an Mhaistir.
The annual Partry AFC Summer Camp will run from August 4 to August 8. The event will take place daily from 10am to 1pm. Book now at https://BookingsFAifootballcamps.ie. The fees are €75 for the 1st child and €65 for all remaining siblings. For further details call Brendan Garry on 087 9957761 or Austin O’ Neill on 086 3095543.
Want to learn how to capture oral history stories? Oral History Network Ireland's training programme will start in mid-September. Find out more and explore OHNI membership by contacting info@oralhistorynetworkireland.ie or visit www.oralhistorynetworkireland.ie.
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The death occurred last week of Mary Hatfield née Dillon, Derrew, Ballyheane, Castlebar. Mary passed away peacefully on July 7, in the care of the staff in the Carra Suite, Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar, surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her parents Patrick and Annie and brothers John and Chris, she is deeply regretted by her husband David, brothers Ollie Dillon (Kitty), Joe and family, Gerry (Eileen), sister Vera Feeney (Gerry), nephew-in-law John Bingley, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
Mary’s remains reposed in Ballyheane Community Centre on last Tuesday, July 8, from 6pm with removal at 7.30pm to St. Patrick’s Church, Ballyheane. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Wednesday morning at 11am and Mary was laid to rest afterwards in Ballintubber Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Belcarra Community Council’s Lotto Jackpot has now reached €12, 600. The Jackpot stood at €12,500 on Sunday, June 6. The numbers drawn were 11, 18, 25 and 30 and there was no jackpot winner. The Lucky Dip winners of €30 were Michelle Ryan, Triona Hennelly x 2 and Barry Cuffe.
The annual Townland v Townland tug of war competition will take place at the Belcarra Sports Day in early August. Townlands are urged to get your teams ready for Saturday, August 9; Men’s and Ladies competition, teams of 8 - 6 pullers + 1 sub and 1 coach. The pride of your townland is at stake - no pressure. Let the training commence.
Handball for boys and girls aged 12 to 14 takes place in Belcarra Alley on Sundays from 5 to 6pm. Come along, get active, and have some fun.
Belcarra after school CLG is looking for a childcare professional. Fetac Level 5 preferred. Applicants are requested to apply to afterschoolbelcarra@gmail.com before July 25.
Breaffy GAA lotto results for July 8 - the numbers 4, 9, 17 and bonus number 6 were drawn and there was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at €16,200 on this Tuesday, July 15.
There is an opportunity to win two tickets for the All-Ireland Hurling Final - Tipperary v Cork. Don’t miss your chance to be there on the day. The live draw: will take place on Thursday the 17th of July at 8pm on the Breaffy GAA Facebook page. Enter now: https://breaffy-gaa.sumupstore.com/.
Congratulations to the Breaffy U12 boys’ soccer team that won the Mayo Community Games competition recently in Manulla. There were splendid victories for the Breaffy U12 boys and girls soccer teams that were both involved in their respective community games competitions. Not only did they participate brilliantly but they both were victories with the boys winning their final 4-1 against Ballinrobe while the girls beat Knockmore 6-1. It is an amazing achievement for both teams so well done to all involved and a special thanks to Anthony McDonnell for organising the event and making it a great day.
Thanks to all the young lads and lasses who came out and showed their skills on the pitch at the recent Breaffy GAA Cúl Camp.
Special thanks were extended to the GAA Club Development Officer Gerry Jennings who oversaw the running of the camp and to all who helped out with the coaching. Thanks also to Aidan O’Shea and Jack Coyne for taking the time to come out and spend time with the kids. It was really appreciated by everyone.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Community Centre will be the venue for a Ceile on Saturday night, August 9. Music for the occasion will be by Michael Sexton and his band. Admission is €12.
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Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, July 3, in Flukies for a jackpot of €4,900. 8, 24, 26 and 35 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Donna Wilson (cash sale), Breege Cronin (annual) and Mark Sheridan (online). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, July 10, in The Railway Tavern when the jackpot stood at €5,000.
Balla Summer Festival is on from August 14-17. Stay tuned for details on events and activities for what promises to be a fun weekend for all.
The Balla Colour Fun Run organised by Balla Community Centre, will take place on August 17, at 12 noon. Take advantage of the Early Bird prices before they sell out. Balla Community Centre is also very excited to announce Balla Teenage Disco on Friday, August 15, as part of the Summer Festival. Tickets are now live on Eventbrite.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Maryann Walsh, Roslahan, Manulla on the passing of her father, Terry Woods, Rathbawn Drive. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €1,700 for last Sunday nights draws.Connor Kilker Coaching is back again from August 18-22, for his second year in Manulla FC. Parents wishing to book a place on the camp, should text your child’s name and age to 083 1753142.
Places are limited so please try and book early to avoid disappointment.
Applications for the monitored personal alarm are available at Balla Community Centre for eligible people aged 65 or over. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for further information.
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Errew & Clogher
A huge 'Thank You' has been extended to everyone who attended the Errew Monastery Boys’ School commemoration and community prayer service to mark the 50th Anniversary of the school closure in 1975. Forty three past pupils were photographed in front of Errew Monastery and enjoyed a sunny evening amongst friends, family and neighbours. Everyone had a chance to visit the old classrooms, former chapel and living quarters of the Franciscan Brothers who lived and taught in the monastery from 1842 until 1981.
The prayer service to remember the deceased members of the local community followed in the adjoining cemetery, led by Br Conal Thomas. Huge thanks are extended to the Errew and Clooncundra families who provided all the tasty sandwiches, cakes, biscuits and treats and helped serve all the teas. Thanks also to Jim Fox for his car parking organisational skills. Thanks also to Isobel Hoban, former Errew NS, for the beautiful background harp music in the cemetery and to Alison Laredo for her professional photography.
Finally, sincere thanks, to Michael Veale and his family for welcoming the community back to the Monastery once again. It is a real credit to them that the Monastery has been preserved and is still standing strong, unlike many other buildings of its time.
Br Conal extends his thanks and appreciation to everyone who prepared for the event, to those who took part in the prayer service and especially to everyone who came to support it.
Clogher Community Futures launch will take place in Clogher Community Centre on Sunday, July 20, at 2pm performed by the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Alan Dillion TD. Everyone is welcome to come and meet the minister and receive a copy of the five year plan (2025-2030) which is now in place for the Clogher Community.
Clogher Active Age members enjoyed an outing to the Fr Peyton Centre, Attymass, Ballina this week. The group enjoyed the film outlining Fr Peyton’s early life in Attymass and his ministry in the United States promoting family prayer through the recitation of the rosary. The group then attended Mass followed by lunch in the dining room and the day concluded with bingo. Thanks to all the staff at the Fr Peyton centre and to Dermot the bus driver who ensured a very enjoyable day was had by all.
Clogher Summers Walks continue every Tuesday evening at Clogher Heritage Complex at 7pm and every Thursday morning at 10am at Clogher Community Centre. There is a choice of distances at both venues and refreshments and a chat afterwards. Everyone is welcome to participate. These walks are along country roads so wear hi-vis jackets for safety. Refreshments are available after each walk.
The results of the weekly card game on Friday were 1st Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion, 2nd Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey, 3rd Sean Hopkins and Peter O'Malley and Michael Giblin and Mary Mc Donagh. Last 10 Gay Conway and Joe Thomas.
A supervisor is required for a Community Employment (CE), Clogher Environmental Group Scheme. The works location is Clogher, Claremorris, County Mayo F12 EK24 and the start date is late August/early September. Interested persons are asked to forward a current CV and cover letter to clogherenvigroup@gmail.com or telephone 094 93 60891.
