Local Notes: 'Financial Times' writer to launch book in Kiltimagh
Author and journalist Philip Stephens.
Kiltimagh Museum will host the Mayo launch of Philip Stephens’ new book, , on Saturday, October 18th, at 7pm. The event is open to all and promises an engaging evening of history, memory and music.
The launch will be accompanied by a live performance from musicians of the Folk Café, Kiltimagh, featuring the acclaimed folk artist Mike Absalom.
Philip Stephens of the is one of the most respected political commentators in the United Kingdom and has spent decades analysing Britain and Europe’s great political shifts. In his latest book, Philip turns his gaze to the complex ties between Ireland and Britain, weaving together history, politics and his own deeply personal story.
Though born in London to an Irish mother and Welsh father, Philip spent long childhood summers in Kiltimagh during the 1950s and '60s. Those formative years - roaming the fields, swimming in rivers, and joining in the life of the town - gave him a lasting bond with Mayo and a strong Irish identity. interlaces those memories with his sharp analysis of Anglo-Irish relations, from emigration and discrimination to reconciliation and the setbacks of Brexit.
Adding a rich musical dimension to the evening will be Mike Absalom, a British singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, artist and illustrator, who now lives and creates in nearby Swinford. Mike has released many albums and made numerous television appearances, gaining recognition as one of the most influential figures in British folk music. Known for his quirky, humorous, and deeply original style, his performances combine storytelling and song, appealing to audiences across generations.
The combination of Philip's reflections on identity, history and politics with Mike’s celebrated folk artistry promises a unique cultural event in Kiltimagh - one that bridges literature, music, and the living ties between Ireland and Britain.
All are warmly invited to attend this special evening at Kiltimagh Museum on Saturday, October 18th, at 7pm.
For more than 20 years, Mayo Cancer Support has provided emotional support to people affected by cancer across the county. To raise both awareness and vital funds, the charity has organised a daring challenge when 100 people will abseil 150 feet from the roof of Croke Park in Dublin on October 10th next.
Among those taking part are Kiltimagh duo Mike Ryan and Mark Jennings, who have stepped forward to represent their club and community in the high-profile event.
Mike Ryan said he was proud to be flying the flag for his club:
“I am proud to be representing Kiltimagh GAA in the upcoming Croke Park abseil,” Mike told the . “This is a unique challenge to take on, alongside fellow GAA volunteers from across Mayo, but most importantly, it is about raising vital funds for Mayo Cancer Support Services. Sadly, so many of us have experienced the loss of friends or family to cancer, or know people who are currently going through treatment.
"Mayo Cancer Support provides invaluable care and assistance to patients and their families as they navigate their own journeys, and I am honoured to support their work through this event.”
For Mark Jennings, the decision to take part was immediate.
“The club was asked would we be interested in taking part and I volunteered to do it,” he said. “It was a no-brainer really. Ireland has 44,000 cancer diagnosis each year and one in two people will unfortunately get a diagnosis. To help keep funded services in our locality of this nature means we are looking out for our families, friends and community. Why wouldn't you do it?”
Abseiling is the controlled descent of a steep slope, and the two Kiltimagh men have responded to the call, and are looking forward to the event.
Both men have launched fundraising pages online and are appealing for donations through their social media accounts, with all proceeds going directly to Mayo Cancer Support.
Kiltimagh GAA has launched a new weekly initiative, ‘Dads & Lads', which will run every Monday at 8pm at Gilmartin Park. The event is open to players of all skill levels, and promises to be a fun and inclusive environment for families to enjoy Gaelic games together.
The organisers promise a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for all participants. The initiative reflects the club’s commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting the sport locally.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to have some fun, all levels are welcome to join in this exciting new weekly event.
The Women’s Group will meet at the Parish Centre on Monday, October 6th, at 7pm. The meeting will include the annual general meeting, providing an opportunity for members to discuss upcoming activities and plans.
Thanks are extended to Janette Kramer for her informative talk on acupuncture at the September gathering. Her presentation was well received and offered valuable insights into the practice.
The group’s crafting sessions have resumed and are held every Monday at 11am in the Folk Café. These sessions provide a space for members to gather and work on various craft projects in a relaxed environment.
Members are also asked to mark their calendars for the upcoming Christmas Party, scheduled for Friday, December 5th. The event will take place in the Cill Aodain Hotel and promises to be a festive occasion for the community.
Pius Forde and John Clancy finished in first place at the recent community card game. Philip Moore and Jack Pidgeon took second, while Chris Flatley and Manus Kilcoyne secured third position.
The last ten was shared among Mary and Richard Carney, Brian McNulty and Seamus Nevin, Tom Begley and Seamus Larkin, and Jack Ryan with Ciaran McDonnell. The spot prize was awarded to Hilary Foley and Martin Regan. Raffle winners included Chris Flatley, James Walsh, Mary Carney, and Kathleen Gill.
Kiltimagh GAA’s 50/50 draw was won last week by Denis Regan, who received a prize of €620. The club congratulated Denis on his win and expressed gratitude to its loyal supporters who enter weekly.
Tickets continue to be sold online and in local businesses, and the club highlighted the importance of the draw in supporting the development of young players.
Seamus Heneghan from Knock scooped the Kiltimagh Knock United 50/50 prize last week, collecting €213. The club offered congratulations to Seamus and thanks to everyone who bought tickets, either online or in pubs and shops around the town.
With steady weekly support, the club can continue to improve facilities for its teams and community.
The Race2Glory Kiltimagh committee is calling on dedicated individuals to get involved with one of the town’s biggest annual events. Volunteers are essential to help deliver a fantastic, community-based experience for Kiltimagh.
An annual general meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 1st, at 8pm in the Cill Aodain Court Hotel, where those interested can learn more about volunteering and how to contribute.
Anyone interested in joining the committee or volunteering for this exciting event is encouraged to attend the AGM or contact Ciara at 087-4050271 for more information.
Further details can also be found at www.race2glory.com.
Work has commenced on extending the biodiversity garden at the Church of the Holy Family in Kiltimagh. The project aims to enhance the church’s natural surroundings and promote local flora.
The garden extension will be blessed during the ‘Season of Creation’ prayer service scheduled for October 3rd.
Local pupils from St Aidan’s and Craggagh National Schools will participate by planting daffodils to bloom in spring, representing new growth and hope. Additionally, a native oak tree will be planted at Craggagh School as part of the project.
The community is welcome to attend and take part in the upcoming events and planting activities.
An exciting opportunity for young people in Kiltimagh will launch next month.
The Youth Theatre Programme will begin on October 15th. The eight-week programme is open to 12–18-year-olds and will include weekly workshops, theatre visits and specialist masterclasses.
The project is a collaboration between Clann Machua Drama Group and Mayo Arts Council, with a subsidised fee of €40 for the full term. Numbers are limited, and early booking is recommended by contacting Adrian Lavan on 086-8676737.
Clann Machua Drama Group itself continues to prepare for a busy season. Rehearsals for the 2026 Three-Act Festival production, , by Frank McGuinness, will commence soon. And plans are well underway for two one-act comedies to be staged in November.
The final of the Summer Poker League will take place this week in Teach O’Hora, where 14 players will contest a prize pool of €2,540, along with the title of Kiltimagh Poker Champion and the Jeremy Dee Memorial Cup.
John Reynolds enters the final as chip leader with a starting stack of 41,700. He is followed closely by Michael Higgins on 37,000. The other players in contention are AN Other 1 (35,000), Pat Boyle (31,300), Michael Sheridan (29,400), Derry O’Sullivan (28,100), Enda Ruane (27,700), AN Other 2 (25,700), Keith Lydon (24,800), Kieran McGee (23,700), Gerry Groarke (22,300), Nicky Cunnane (21,100), Nigel Maughan (16,900) and Martin Regan (16,200).
In the opening round of the new Autumn League, played last week, Martin Regan secured the first victory, defeating Derry O’Sullivan in a heads-up finish. John Reynolds placed third with Julian Keane taking fourth.
The Summer League Final promises strong competition, with a substantial prize fund and the added prestige of the Jeremy Dee Memorial Cup on the line.
