Local Notes: Students take part in Claremorris Lions Club's art competition
Pupils from Gortsheky National School receive certificates for their entry into the Claremorris and District Lions Club annual art competition with Orla Sweeney (Lions Club, on left), Yvonne McNabb and Caroline Thomas (Gortsheky NS) and James Preston (Lions Club). Picture: John Corless
Claremorris GAA Handball Club is celebrating international success following Patrick Murphy’s victory at the 2026 Canadian Nationals in the Men’s Open Singles 4-Wall competition.
Patrick entered the tournament ranked number three and produced a series of strong performances during the week-long event. He secured a quarter-final tie-break win over Vincent St-Amant of Quebec before defeating second seed Caolan Smith of Vancouver in straight games in the semi-final. In the final, Patrick faced top seed Jerome Santerre of Quebec and claimed the title with a 15-10, 15-13 victory.
The performance marked a significant achievement for the Claremorris player and added to a successful week for representatives of Claremorris GAA Handball Club and the Mayo GAA Handball Association. Patrick also enjoyed success in the Men’s Open Doubles competition alongside fellow club member Dessie Keegan. Dessie, who is President of the World Handball Council, also won the Men’s Open Doubles title and reached the final of the Masters Doubles competition during the tournament in Canada.
The achievements have been widely welcomed within local handball circles and represent another notable milestone for the Claremorris club on the international stage.
The Claremorris and District Lions Club is getting ready for its annual senior citizens’ party, which will be held in Cúram on this Sunday afternoon, May 24th, from 2.30pm to 5pm. Speaking to the , Lions’ President James Preston said that the event, now in its third year, has proven very popular.
“The parties we have held up to now have been very well attended,” he said. “The highlight for many is to get up and dance, which is always wonderful to see. The event is free of charge, with facilities kindly provided by Cúram and some refreshments from SuperValu. Music is provided by Liam Newman and three musicians from Westport, Tony, Mary and Larry, who are excellent.”
The Lions is a busy organisation, with a range of activities throughout the year.
“We are very grateful to everyone who supports our events. We have just finished our annual tree planting in conjunction with the two local secondary schools, which was well supported as always,” James said.
The Lions meet in the Dalton Inn Hotel on the first Wednesday of each month at 8.30pm. New members are always welcome.
A new six-week Zumba programme is set to bring energy, movement and fun to the local community this summer at the Davitts’ Gym. Beginning on this Thursday, May 21, the weekly classes will run from 6.30 to 7.30pm and are open to anyone looking to improve fitness in an enjoyable and social environment.
The programme offers participants the chance to stay active through the popular dance-based fitness format that combines upbeat music with easy-to-follow routines suitable for all fitness levels and is hosted by Davitts GAA and LGFA Club. Whether people are returning to exercise, hoping to boost their wellbeing, or simply looking for a lively way to spend an evening, the classes promise a welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.
The full six-week course is priced at €60, payable upfront, with organisers encouraging early booking as places are expected to fill quickly. The initiative reflects the club’s continued commitment to promoting health, fitness and community engagement beyond the playing field.
Anyone interested in taking part is asked to book in advance by contacting Gineta on 086-8850209.
Students from St Colman’s College took part in a climb of Croagh Patrick last week as part of an annual school outing involving Transition Year JP11 students and a number of Fifth Year international students.
The group completed the climb in bright weather conditions alongside several other school groups who were also taking part in the pilgrimage walk on the day.
Past pupil Fr Shane Costello joined the students again this year and celebrated Mass in the chapel at the summit of Croagh Patrick. During the service, he spoke to students about pilgrimage, resilience and the importance of reflecting on the school year that has passed.
Staff members Mr Hession and Ms Egan accompanied the students on the climb, with congratulations extended to all who took part in the day.
Claremorris Tidy Towns has confirmed that its 2026 application for the National Tidy Towns Competition has now been submitted. The committee thanked the wider community for its support over the past year and acknowledged the contribution made by Mayo County Council, local councillors, schools, residents’ associations, businesses, sports clubs, community groups, state agencies and volunteers.
Adjudication for the competition will take place during June and early July. The committee is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to continue supporting local efforts by helping to keep the town maintained and litter free in the coming weeks. Claremorris Tidy Towns expressed hope that the town can continue to build on previous results when this year’s competition outcome is announced later in the year.
The Western Hotel will host the Micheál Hanley Memorial Darts Cup on Saturday, June 13, with an exciting evening of competition and entertainment for darts enthusiasts and supporters alike.
The event, which gets underway at 5pm, will feature both Ladies’ and Gents’ competitions, welcoming players of all abilities to take part in honour of the late Micheál Hanley. Organisers are expecting a strong turnout for the memorial tournament, which has become a much-anticipated social and sporting occasion on the local calendar.
An entry fee of €10 will apply, with the draw for matches taking place at 5pm sharp. Alongside the competitive action, attendees can look forward to a lively atmosphere and a great evening’s entertainment at the popular venue.
The tournament aims not only to celebrate the spirit of darts within the community, but also to remember and pay tribute to Micheál Hanley in a fitting and enjoyable way.
Zoe Gayer was the winner of the Claremorris AFC 50/50 draw last week, taking home €510 with an online ticket.
The club congratulated Zoe on the win and thanked all who continue to support the weekly fundraiser. Proceeds from the draw help support teams across all age groups and contribute to the ongoing development of the club. Tickets remain available online and through local shops and pubs.
Kevin Higgins from the UK was the winner of the Claremorris GAA Club 50/50 draw last week, collecting the guaranteed top prize of €2,000. Kevin purchased the winning ticket in the McWilliam Park Hotel.
The club congratulated Kevin on the win and expressed sincere thanks to all who continue to support the weekly draw. Proceeds from the draw go towards facilities, coaching and underage development. Tickets are available online as well as through local retailers and pubs each week.
A family fundraiser in support of the Children’s Health Foundation will take place in Claremorris on Saturday week, May 30th. The event will be held at Tesco Claremorris from 10am to 3pm and will include a range of activities for children and families.
Entertainment on the day will feature Nancy the Clown, music, dancing and a DJ, along with face painting and other activities. A cake sale and raffle will also take place, with a selection of prizes on offer. Organisers are encouraging families to attend and support the event, with all proceeds going towards the Children’s Health Foundation.
Claremorris South Community First Responders is currently inviting new volunteers to join its ranks.
The group plays a vital role in responding to local emergencies such as cardiac arrest, heart attacks and choking incidents, offering immediate assistance before paramedics arrive. Training, equipment and ongoing support are all provided, with no previous experience required.
Anyone interested can contact Mayo Volunteer Centre on 096-71444 or email vincent@volunteermayo.ie for further details.
GROW Mental Health continues to host its peer support meetings at Claremorris Family Resource Centre. The group offers a welcoming and confidential space for people to talk, listen and connect with others and is held every Wednesday from 11am to 1pm. Further information is available by calling 094-9377838 or emailing info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
The Dementia Dance Memory Group continues to meet weekly at the Cúram Family Centre in Claremorris.
The sessions provide a supportive and social environment for those caring for people living with dementia, and take place each Wednesday from 11.30am to 1pm. Music, refreshments and conversation are central to the gatherings. For more information, contact Irene on 087-108 0650.
The Autism Parent Peer Support Group will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, May 20, at 7pm in Cúram Family Centre, Claremorris.
Parents, guardians and grandparents are invited to attend for peer support and discussion in an informal setting. The cost is €2 per person. Meetings take place on the third Wednesday of each month at the centre.
Cúram Family Centre will also host a fostering information evening on Wednesday, May 20, from 7 to 9pm. The event is organised by Tusla and is open to anyone interested in learning more about fostering and the role foster carers can play in supporting children and young people.
Members of the fostering team will give a presentation and speak with attendees on the evening. Further information is available by calling 1800 226 771.
Cúram also continues to provide a low-cost counselling service in a confidential setting. Support is available for people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, loneliness, relationship difficulties, domestic abuse and other personal challenges. Appointments and further information are available from Cúram Family Centre by calling 094-9362096.
Claremorris Golf Club held competitions on May 11, sponsored by Green’s Department Store and JG Sports.
Rebecca Kean won the Ladies 18-Hole Stableford with 38 points, while Lorraine Corcoran claimed Category Three with the same score. In the Ladies 9-Hole Stableford, June Elliott took first place with 17 points.
Shane Prendergast recorded the leading score in the Men’s 18-Hole Stableford with 43 points. John Killeen won Category One with 37 points, Tyler Baachus won Category Three with 40 points, Con Curley won Category Four with 35 points and Brendan Walsh won Category Five with 38 points.
The club is also preparing for its Annual Am-Am Fundraiser, which will run from May 26 to June 1. The event will include a range of prizes along with competitions for veterans, longest drive and nearest the pin on the three par-threes. There will also be an all-ladies team section and a separate 9-hole team competition.
Members can enter through the BRS booking system, while non-members can register by contacting the clubhouse on 094-9371527. Club officials confirmed that buggies and electric trolleys will be available for hire during the event and said they look forward to welcoming both members and visiting golfers throughout the week.
The death has occurred of Seán King of Ballinastanford, Claremorris. Seán died peacefully at the Galway Clinic, surrounded by his loving family, following a long illness borne with unwavering strength and courage.
Seán was predeceased by his parents Frank and Eileen, brother Francis and sister Breege. He will be sadly missed by his devoted wife Anne, son Stephen, daughter Tara, daughter-in-law Jessica, Tara’s partner Seán, brother Pat, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.
Seán’s remains reposed at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris on Saturday evening, May 9, with removal to his residence. His Funeral Mass was held in St Colman’s Church, Claremorris on Sunday afternoon, followed by burial in St Colman’s Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death occurred on May 8 last of Barry Byrne of Ballyhaunis Road, Knock.
Barry was the dearly loved husband of Aisling (Lyons) and much-loved father of daughter Fianna and son Sean. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife and children, mother Mary, father John, brother John John, sisters Rachel, Gillian and Kelley Anne, parents-in-law Ann and John Lyons, sisters-in-law Aislinn and Denise, brothers-in-law Cormac, Christy and Tommy, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Barry’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock on Sunday afternoon, May 10. His Funeral Mass was held in St John the Baptist Church, Knock on Monday morning, followed by burial in the local cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Seamus Rushe of Kilclooney, Milltown, Co Galway, and formerly of Esker, Ballindine. Seamus died peacefully at Galway Hospice. He was predeceased by his mother Margaret, father Bill, sisters Joan and Francis, and sister-in-law Sheila.
Seamus will be sadly missed by his loving wife Margaret, brothers Liam and Brendan, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Seamus’ remains reposed at Glynn’s Funeral Home, High Street, Tuam on Sunday evening with removal to St Joseph’s Church, Milltown. Seamus’ Funeral Mass was held on Monday afternoon, followed by burial in Kilclooney Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of James (Jimmy) Roche of Irishtown, Claremorris. Jimmy died peacefully in the loving care of the wonderful staff at Mayo Hospice, after a bravely fought illness.
Jimmy was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Mary, sister Margaret and brother Tom. He will be forever cherished and sadly missed by his loving wife Eleanor, children Leonore, Elaine, Jamie and Glenden, sons-in-law David and Peter, daughters-in-law Louise and Andrea, adored grandchildren Max, Bobby, Aoibhinn, Cara, James, Juliet, Daithí, Eiley, Annie, Diarmuid and Liadh, brothers John (Irishtown) and Padraic (Manchester), sisters Sheila (Birmingham) and Mary (Boleyboy), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Jimmy’s remains reposed at his home on Sunday, May 10. His Funeral Mass was held in the Church of the Holy Family and St Oliver, Irishtown on Monday afternoon followed by burial in Irishtown Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Willie Reilly of Castlemagarret, Claremorris, and formerly of Rathlee, Easkey, Co Sligo. Willie died peacefully at Mayo University Hospital. He will be sadly missed by his sons P.J., Liam and John, brother Peter, daughters-in-law Barbara, Patricia and Isabel, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Willie’s remains reposed at Sweeney’s Funeral Home, Dromore West, Co Sligo on Sunday evening, May 10, with removal to the Star of the Sea Church, Rathlee. His Funeral Mass was held on Monday morning, May 11, followed by burial in Roslea Cemetery, Easkey.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Michael McVann of Kilbeg, Claremorris, and formerly of Curry, Co. Sligo, ex An Garda Síochána. M
Michael was predeceased by his parents Anne and Patrick, brothers Jim and Paddy, sisters Mary (McCarrick) and Sr Olive. He will be deeply regretted by his loving wife Teresa, children Oliver, Maura, Patricia, Micheál and Adrian, daughters-in-law Anita, Olivia and Sarah, sons-in-law Alan Laing and Martin Brady, adored grandchildren, in-laws, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Michael’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Wednesday evening last. His Funeral Mass was held in St Colman’s Church, Claremorris on Thursday afternoon, followed by burial in St Colman’s Cemetery, Claremorris.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Liam Lyons of Bekan, Claremorris. Liam died peacefully at the Galway Clinic, surrounded by his heartbroken family, following a brief illness.
Liam was predeceased by his parents David and Gertrude, sister Mary, and brothers-in-law Neil and Mohan. He will be sadly and deeply missed by his devoted wife Kay, daughter Nóirín, sons David, Austin and Fergal, grandson Donnchadh Liam, son-in-law Mark, daughters-in-law Lorraine, Sarah and Orla, sister Patricia, niece Krishna, nephews Seshu, John, David and Conor, extended family, neighbours and many friends.
Liam’s remains reposed at Donnellan’s Funeral Home, Ballyhaunis on Thursday evening, May 14. His Funeral Mass was held in the Church of St Margaret Mary Alacoque, Bekan on Friday afternoon last followed by burial in Bekan Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
