Local Notes: New Year's Day Swim in Erris marks 30th anniversary
The New Year's Day Swim at Blacksod Pier in 2010.
This New Year’s Day marks the 30th anniversary of the New Year’s Day Swim at Blacksod Pier. The swim was first conceived in 1996 by local community members as a fundraising initiative to support the construction of the Ionad Deirbhile Heritage Centre in Eachléim, which now operates as the SOLAS Visitor Centre.
Since its inception, the swim has taken place every year without interruption, including during the Covid-19 pandemic, demonstrating the remarkable commitment of the local community.
Among the earliest participants were Lynn Weir, John Gallagher and Úna and Jackie McCafferty who have taken part every year since the beginning.
Traditionally, swimmers are offered a hot whiskey at the pier after their dip, before proceeding to Teach John Joe’s Pub in Eachléim, where hot soup and refreshments are served by the fire.
Over the past three decades, the New Year’s Day Swim has raised funds for a wide range of charities and good causes. This year’s 30th anniversary swim will continue that tradition, with all funds raised going to the newly established Blacksod Rowing Club. Founded last year, the club now has over 120 members who train year-round both in doors and out doors.
This year’s New Year’s Day Swim will take place on Thursday, January 1, at 2pm at Blacksod Pier.
There lovely a lovely night in Áras Inis Gluaire recently in conjunction with Tuismeisteroií na Gaeltachta when people came together from all over the area to celebrate with 'Cóisir na nÓg'. The house was full on the night between the Gaelic Cinema and Seisiún na nÓg from all age groups.
The Gaelic Cinema with Tuismeisteroií na Gaeltachta had a great film to look forward to, an Irish language version of the film 'Abominable'.
There was a special 'Seisiún na nÓg' after the Cinema Gaelach, thanks to Craobh Iorrais. Special thanks to Seamus, Angela and Cillian.
Attendees were absolutely spoiled by the wealth of young people who came out on the night - between music, dancing and singing in the sean-nós!.
A big thank you also to Coláiste UISCE, Tuismehairoií na Gaeltachta and Gaeilge Iorrais for providing the beautiful goodies for the raffle.
Thanks also to the staff of Áras Inis Gluaire and a big thank you to everyone who came out to join in the fun.
Merry Christmas to you all.
The Erris Family and Community Support Centre acknowledges the support, community spirit and kindness they have seen this past month.
The first Christmas Appeal was made possible by the support of the local supermarkets, wonderful volunteers, the fantastic team at the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), the local secondary schools, and all who donated food items and gifts. Through the appeal, over 150 people (adults and children) were supported and the financial pressure at this time of year was eased a little.
There was also had a little party for the Parent, Baby and Toddler Group during the month and Santa and his jolly elf dropped by to see the kids and give them a little gift. He also visited the IWA School Leavers and spread some Christmas cheer.
The final board meeting for 2025 was held earlier this month and four new directors were welcomed onto the committee - Kevin Murray, Noel McLaughlin, Sandra Carey and Eoin O’Donoghue. They are looking forward to developing the project further with new members of the team in 2026. Thank you to the dedicated voluntary board members who have worked hard with the centre staff team this year to respond to the needs of individuals and families.
It has been a busy month, and it has had its lows but through it seeing people united, and a collective drive to make things a little bit better. It gives hope when you see such goodwill and care, and admirable strength and resilience from people across the community.
While we are entering into a time of year focused on joy and blessings, we know that this time of year is very tough for many.
Please do not struggle alone, share with someone you trust, find a listening ear and ask for help if you need it. For those with a lighter load to carry this year, please be that trusted person and offer a hand to someone who needs it.
We are fortunate to have free counselling support here in Erris through NWSTOP. You can contact them on 0818-444000.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the NWSTOP tractor raffle, all funds raised will go towards delivery of free counselling in the area.
You can support this cause by clicking on www.idonate.ie.
A big thank you to Tim Doyle of Vincy’s Pub for his generous donation to NWSTOP recently. The service relies completely on donations and fundraising.
Thank you to everyone who has worked with the Family and Community Support Centre this year. All at the centre look forward to more positive projects and initiatives next year.
The Cill Chomáin GAA presentation night will be held on Saturday, January 3rd, in The Anglers Rest.
MC for the night is Midwest Radio's Michael D McAndrew plus music by Grace Kelly. Tickets, priced at €15, will be available locally and online on the club app.
Cill Chomáin 25 Card Drive will take place on Sunday, January 25th, in Healy’s Hall Glenamoy. The prize money is €1,300 with tickets, priced at €10 each, on sale in local businesses in the New Year.
Raffle and refreshments served.
John Walker completed his five-year term as Mayo GAA's Communications Officer recently and Cill Chomáin Club wish him the best of luck in his new role as North Mayo Secretary for 2026.
A big thank you to everyone who came out to the Ballycroy GAA Darts Classic in Doherty’s of Mulranny recently - your support makes all the difference.
A special word of gratitude to the fantastic sponsors and those that donated spot prizes – your generosity helps drive the club forward.
To Martin and Rona – thank you for your incredible hospitality, the brilliant venue, and the delicious food. You made the night extra special!
Congratulations to the winner Johnny O’Donnell and to the runner-up David Ryder. Well done also to the semi-finalists Aiden O’Malley and John Patten – fantastic darts all round!
Johnny also had the highest checkout of the night, a stunning 161 finish!
The club wishes everyone a safe and happy festive season and a happy New Year.
Belmullet Glencastle Senior Citizens' Christmas Party was held recently in the Broadhaven Bay Hotel. Mass was celebrated by Fr Eddie Rogan followed by music with Michael John Ruddy and Packie Carey.
The organisers would like to thank all who attended and all who donated money and spot prizes for the raffle. In attendance was Mayo County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Carey and all enjoyed the day.
