Local notes: Responder Group holds Christmas fundraiser
John P Kean pictured at his book launch with his three daughters and their husbands, all former Mayo footballers like their father-in-law. From left: Audrey, and Enda Varley; John P Kean; Rebecca, and Darren Coen; Charlotte, and Jason Gibbons. His book, Off the Crossbar, is on sale in all good bookshops and he will be having a book signing in Daily's Newsagents (formerly Smyth's) on Main Street, Claremorris this Saturday, December 6 from 3 to 5pm.
The Claremorris South Responder Group will hold its annual Christmas fundraiser on Saturday, December 13 at the Tesco Silverbridge Shopping Mall in Claremorris. The group is hoping to raise funds for two new mobile defibrillators, along with essential first-aid supplies, to help them continue providing vital emergency support in the local community.
A number of activities are planned throughout the day. Children will have the chance to take part in a CPR challenge, with a prize for the winner, while all donors – regardless of the amount contributed – will be entered into a live Facebook draw that evening for a selection of prizes. Free blood pressure checks will be available between 11am and 2pm, and goodie bags will be handed out while stocks last.
The group expressed its appreciation to the community for the continued support shown throughout the year. As a voluntary organisation, members emphasised that the generosity of local people enables them to respond during difficult and critical moments.
They extended warm wishes to everyone for a safe, healthy and happy Christmas season.
Taugheen Playgroup, based at Taugheen National School, will hold an Open Evening on this Thursday, December 4 from 5pm to 7pm. Parents, guardians and prospective families are invited to come along, meet the staff and learn more about the playgroup’s facilities and early years programme. All are welcome.
St Colman’s College invites 6th class boys and their parents to attend the school’s Open/Enrolment Evening for incoming First Year students on this Thursday, December 4 from 5pm to 7.30pm.
The event offers prospective students and their families an opportunity to visit the college, meet staff, and learn more about the wide range of educational and extracurricular opportunities available. A Principal’s Address will take place at 7pm.
Online enrolment forms are now available at the school’s website, www.stcolmans.ie.
It has been a landmark few weeks at Hollymount-Carramore GAA Club, where two major development projects are nearing completion, marking a significant investment in the future of the club’s facilities.
Work on the club’s new 60x40 3G synthetic AstroTurf pitch is now in its final stages, with the contractors carrying out the installation over recent weeks. The new all-weather surface will provide year-round training opportunities for players of all ages and is expected to become an essential resource for the club.
In addition, four new 20-metre lighting columns have been erected on the main pitch. The upgraded 350 Lux lighting system is due to be fully operational within the next week, greatly enhancing the quality of evening training and match preparations.
The club said the two projects represent major developments for Hollymount-Carramore and will ensure top-class facilities not only for its own teams but also for visiting sides in the years ahead.
Hollymount-Carramore GAA Club extended its thanks to everyone who has contributed to the planning, support and delivery of these improvements, noting that the upgrades will have a lasting and positive impact on the wider community.
Students from St Colman’s College enjoyed a fantastic day of achievement at a recent schools’ swimming competition held in Longford, bringing home an impressive haul of medals.
In what was described as a highly competitive event, both of the College’s relay teams delivered outstanding performances, each securing gold medals in their respective races. There was further individual success, with Tomàs Burke and Jack Veldon earning medals across a number of events following strong displays in the pool.
The College extended its congratulations to all students who took part, noting that they represented themselves, their families, their clubs and St Colman’s with pride and distinction. The results mark another proud sporting moment for the school, highlighting the depth of talent and commitment among its young athletes.
There was great excitement at Mount Saint Michael, Claremorris last week as Transition Year students Simona and Ema were announced as winners of the prestigious National Intel Technology Award at SciFest 2025. The pair were honoured for their outstanding innovation, creativity and technical skill, standing out among entries from across the country. Their achievement has been described as a major milestone for both students and school.
Staff at Mount Saint Michael said they were “incredibly proud” of the duo, praising their dedication and hard work throughout the project. The win marks not only a personal triumph for Simona and Ema but also a proud moment for the entire school community.
The school extended hearty congratulations to both students, noting that their success is an inspiring example of the talent and potential of young people in the STEM fields.
Ballindine Community Centre will be transformed into a festive wonderland on Sunday, December 14 as Santa himself arrives to meet children and spread Christmas cheer. The event runs from 3pm to 5.30pm, with plenty of seasonal fun planned for families.
Children will have the chance to meet Santa Claus, enjoy the magic of the season, and soak up a lively Christmas atmosphere. DJ PJ will provide festive tunes throughout the afternoon, adding to the excitement. There will also be treats, small gifts and plenty of holiday smiles to go around.
Admission is €5 per child (cash only) and everyone is welcome to join in the celebration.
Claremorris Chamber of Commerce has thanked the local businesses, community groups and volunteers for their support in helping get the town’s 2025 Christmas Tree in place.
In a message of appreciation, the Chamber expressed its gratitude to everyone who contributed, donated or offered practical assistance in bringing festive cheer back to the town centre. The Chamber also confirmed that donations are still welcome through its online fundraiser, and that businesses or individuals wishing to donate directly can email claremorrischamber@gmail.com.
A special acknowledgement was extended to Clar IRD and the CE Scheme team, led by Mickey Nally, who were praised for going “above and beyond” in their support. The Chamber also thanked Brendan and the team at Mellett Electrical for their generosity with both time and equipment, making the installation possible.
McHugh’s Builders were acknowledged for kindly providing machinery, while the Claremorris Men’s Shed received warm appreciation for crafting the decorative barrier around the tree – an addition the Chamber described as looking “fantastic.” The Chamber further commended the dedication of the Lights Committee, whose behind-the-scenes work ensures the town shines brightly each Christmas season. Thanks were also extended to the Claremorris St Patrick’s Day Parade group for their continued support.
The lights were switched-on, on Sunday last by Mayo footballer, Padraig O’Hora.
The launch of the ninth edition of ‘Clann Mhuiris’, the annual journal of the Claremorris Historical Society, drew an impressive attendance at Claremorris Library recently. The publication was officially unveiled by former MEP for Connacht–Ulster, Jim Higgins.
In his address, Mr Higgins praised the journal as a superb production and commended all who contributed to its creation. Emphasising the importance of recording local history, he remarked that “we are nothing without our history.” He also paid warm tribute to the late Michael Reidy and Johnny Kirrane, both respected figures in the local historical community and past contributors to ‘Clann Mhuiris.’ Highlighting the interwoven nature of history, Mr Higgins noted the attendance of members of the Maguire family, including Judge Libby Maguire, grandniece of former Chief Justice of Ireland Conor A. Maguire. This year’s journal reproduces Chief Justice Maguire’s personal account of his experiences during the War of Independence.
Many of the journal’s contributors were also present. James Gilmore attended as son of renowned filmmaker and cinema operator Joe Gilmore, whose story of bringing the magic of film to rural communities from the 1950s to the 1980s is captured in this year’s edition. Cormac Hanley, author of a vivid account of his uncle Henry Dixon – winner of two All-Ireland medals with Mayo in 1950 and 1951 – was also in attendance, as was local historian and genealogist Gerard Delaney, who explores the relationship between Father James Corbett and the Claremorris Fenians.
Sisters Margaret O’Grady and Teresina Daly, joined by several colleagues, contributed a detailed history of the Mercy Order in Claremorris since its establishment in January 1877. Local sacristan Pat Gleeson was also present; his article uncovers the story behind the high altar in St Colman’s Parish Church and its previously little-known builder, Patrick E. Tomlin. Editor Colmán Ó Raghallaigh contributed an article on early 20th-century postcards sent from Claremorris that have recently found their way back to the town.
Claremorris Historical Society Secretary Adrianne Reidy expressed her gratitude to all attendees and acknowledged the editorial work of Colmán Ó Raghallaigh and Pat Keane. She encouraged new members to join the society and thanked Aoife Ní Cheallaigh and the Mayo County Library staff for hosting the event.
Priced at just €10 and featuring many rare photographs, the latest edition of Clann Mhuiris is expected to be a popular Christmas gift for Claremorris natives near and far. The journal is now available at the usual outlets in the town.
Cúram has confirmed that its much-anticipated €10,000 Christmas Jackpot must be won at the centre’s next draw, which will take place on Tuesday, December 16, at 4.30pm in Cúram. There was no winner of last week’s jackpot, meaning the full €10,000 will be given away at the upcoming draw. Tickets are now on sale, priced at €2 each or three for €5.
In the lead-up to the event, Cúram staff and volunteers will be selling tickets at several locations around the town. Tickets will be available at Tesco on this Friday, December 5, and SuperValu on Saturday, December 6. Tickets may also be purchased at the usual local outlets. Glynn’s Checkout, Hillside Service Station, Clár IRD, the Lighthouse Diner, and at the Cúram Family Centre.
Well-known broadcaster Michael Commins will carry out the draw for the €10,000 jackpot on December 16 at 4.30pm in Cúram. If the jackpot is not won outright, it will be distributed by lucky dip on the day, with prizes divided as follows: five prizes of €1,000 and ten prizes of €500.
Those attending the event are invited to come along from 3pm, when light refreshments will be served ahead of the big draw.
All proceeds from Cúram’s weekly lottery go directly towards supporting the delivery of vital services at the centre, including counselling, bereavement support, family support, adult education, supports for the elderly, and a range of other important community services. Cúram extends a sincere thank you to all who continue to support the lottery each week.
The monthly Coffee Morning in Cúram will take place this Thursday, December 4 beginning at 10.30am, and everyone is warmly invited to attend. The gathering offers a relaxed opportunity for people to come together for a cuppa and a chat, while also enjoying a seasonal activity in the lead-up to Christmas.
This month’s event will feature guest speaker Christina Jordan, who will give a practical demonstration on how to create a Christmas floral arrangement. Christina will show attendees how to work with oasis, fresh greenery and flowers, guiding them through the steps involved in arranging the materials into a festive display.
The Coffee Morning continues to be an open, welcoming occasion, and organisers encourage anyone with an interest – whether in meeting others, enjoying a warm drink, or learning a simple decorative skill – to come along. Admission is €3. All are welcome.
Anna Gwozdz was the winner of Claremorris GAA’s 50/50 draw last week, taking home €1,010. Anna bought her winning ticket in Warde’s. The club expressed its appreciation to everyone who continues to support the weekly draw. Each ticket sold helps fund club development and underage coaching. Tickets remain available online as well as in local shops and pubs throughout the town and in the run up to Christmas, the club will be offering hampers as additional prizes.
Set dancing classes take place every Wednesday evening at 8.30pm in Ballindine Community Centre and everyone is warmly welcome to join in. The sessions offer a lively mix of music, fun, exercise and community spirit, with a friendly atmosphere that suits both complete beginners and more experienced dancers.
The annual Brickens Christmas Market will take place on Sunday, December 14 from 10am to 3pm at the Community Centre. The event, held in aid of Brickens Meals on Wheels, supports an essential local service while bringing residents together for a celebration of the season.
Mount Saint Michael is inviting all sixth-class students and their parents to its Open Evening on Tuesday, December 9. Tours will begin at 4.15pm, offering visitors the opportunity to meet teachers and students and to explore all that the school has to offer. The Principal’s address will be at 6.30pm and the event will end at 7pm. The school is encouraging prospective students to come along and experience first-hand the vibrant learning environment and the variety of opportunities available at Mount Saint Michael.
The death has occurred of Gabriel Gallagher of Claremont Manor, Knock Road, Claremorris. Gabriel died peacefully at his residence.
Gabriel was predeceased by his parents Willie and Una Gallagher, his brother Frank and sister Martha. Gabriel is survived by his loving sisters Anne (Naughton) and Mary (Mannion), sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Gabriel’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Saturday evening, November 22. His funeral cortege arrived at St Colman’s Church on Sunday, November 23 for Requiem Mass.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Michael Daniel (Danny) Dolan of Ballyglass, Scardaune, Claremorris, and formerly of Pulbawn, Roundfort. Danny died peacefully at Mayo University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Danny will be sadly missed by his wife Rita, son John, daughter-in-law Claire, grandchildren Daniel and Kate, sisters Peggy and Mary, brothers Jimmy, Bernard and Louis, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, neighbours and friends.
Danny’s remains reposed at Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine on Monday evening, November 24. Funeral Mass took place on Tuesday in St Patrick’s Church, Ballyglass, followed by burial in Ballyglass Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
