Local notes: Tidy group put their town on the map
Chris Glynn with some of the new placename signs erected recently by Tidy Towns in Kiltimagh.
A new community-driven initiative in Kiltimagh is bringing local history and identity to life, as volunteers install a series of signage marking the town’s well-known laneways, walkways and back roads.
According to chairperson David McNicholas, the project has been a “labour of love” led by local man Chris Glynn and his dedicated team.
“The way we work in our Tidy Towns is that people come together with little projects they’re passionate about,” David told the . “This has been on Chris Glynn’s mind for a long time.”
The idea, David said, was simple but meaningful: to give official recognition to place names long used by locals but never formally marked. “As people walk around the town, there were no names on these roads,” he said. “Many routes – including link roads and smaller laneways – were widely known in conversation but not signposted.
He highlighted examples such as ‘Mooney’s Lane’, ‘Crunahaite’ and ‘The Wickets,’ explaining that “everyone in town knew them, but there was never any signage on them.” The initiative now ensures that both locals and visitors can connect with these traditional names.
David emphasised that the project is about preserving local heritage for future generations. “It’s a way of making sure that whatever generation knows these names now, the next generation will too,” he said, “and while some names had to be newly agreed, the vast majority would be familiar to local people.”
The work has been carried out by Chris Glynn, his son Ryan Glynn, and brothers Henry and Seán Kelly, with David keen to place the spotlight firmly on their efforts. “I’m just the chairperson – this is their project and they put all the work into it,” he said.
He described Chris Glynn as the driving force behind the initiative, saying the project was very much “his baby” and had first been proposed at the group’s annual general meeting. “Behind the scenes, he’s so progressive,” David said.
The signs feature both the Irish and English versions of the names and David expressed thanks to Mary Johnson, Aingeal Uí Mhaicín and Máirtín O’Mhaicín for all their work on the bilingual element of the signs.
The materials used in the project reflect both durability and sustainability. The signage is mounted on long-lasting laminated panels, while the backing material – donated by Chris and Ryan Glynn through their outdoor gym work – is made from recycled plastic. David said that the materials are “very durable” and “should last a lifetime”.
Funding for the signage has been provided by Kiltimagh Tidy Towns, while the installation required extensive community cooperation. David explained that permissions had to be secured from property owners before signs could be mounted on walls and existing structures.
Around 40 signs are currently being installed across the town, enhancing popular walking routes and adding character to everyday journeys.
“People coming up from the Park Hotel into town will now see not just a pedestrian walkway, but the name locals have always called it,” David said.
The signage project is just one of several ongoing improvements in Kiltimagh, with a new mural also in development. However, David reiterated that the naming initiative stands as a testament to community pride and volunteerism.
Summing up the effort, he said: “It’s really about giving names to places we’re all familiar with – and making sure they’re there for everyone to see.”
A community planting event will take place at Glore Mill on Saturday, April 11 from 10am, where volunteers are invited to assist in developing a tree-lined labyrinth along the Glore River. The initiative is being led by Ray Cooper, co-owner of the site and Environmental Officer with Kiltimagh Tidy Towns.
The project will involve the planting of more than 2,000 trees to form structured hedge rows that will define the labyrinth layout. The species selected include hawthorn, birch, rowan, hazel, oak, beech and Scots pine, many of which are noted for their release of biogenic volatile organic compounds, often referred to as BVOCs or phytoncides. These natural compounds, produced by trees, are associated with measurable physiological and psychological benefits, including reduced stress levels and support for overall wellbeing. The project aims to create a space where these effects can be experienced through walking and time spent in the environment.
The trees have been supplied through the Trees on the Land initiative, along with additional stock, and the planting will be carried out in phases, with further sessions expected. The long-term aim is to establish a feature that contributes to biodiversity while also providing a setting for recreation and reflection.
The initiative is supported by a number of local organisations, including St Louis Community School, Kiltimagh Men’s Shed, Kiltimagh Childcare, Immigrant Park Kiltimagh, Killeadan Parish and Kavanagh’s SuperValu, which will provide refreshments on the day.
Volunteers are asked to bring spades, with the layout to be set out in advance. Further information is available from Ray Cooper on 087-1040438 or by email at raycooper120@gmail.com.
Atlantic Care is seeking caregivers to provide support to older people living at home. The service operates in communities throughout the county and focuses on assisting individuals in maintaining daily routines in their own homes.
The roles offer flexible working hours. Applicants are required to hold QQI Care Skills and Care of the Older Person qualifications. Training is available as part of the role.
The organisation is inviting applications from those interested in working in home support. Further information can be obtained by contacting 094-9014028 or by email at nollag.mchale@atlanticcare.ie.
The Kilticamps Easter camp at Bohola Community Centre continues this week. The camp is open to children aged between four and 12 years, with daily sessions running from 10am to 2pm.
The programme includes a range of sports such as GAA, soccer, rounders, tag rugby, basketball, volleyball and hockey. Activities include organised games and challenges, including treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, quizzes, board games and talent shows. Yoga, gymnastics, puc fada and water-based activities are also included as part of the camp.
Registration is available online through the Kilticamps Facebook page or by scanning the QR code on the event poster. A deposit of €10 is required to secure a place and will be refunded once Revolut payment has been confirmed.
Further information is available from Amy on 087-6749986.
Kevin Power was the winner of Kiltimagh GAA Club’s 50-50 draw last week, taking home €547. In the previous week’s draw, Aiden Warde won €523, reflecting the continued strong support for the fundraiser. The club congratulated both winners and expressed sincere thanks to all who purchase tickets each week, with proceeds contributing to underage coaching, facilities and ongoing development.
Another lively evening of cards was held at the weekly 25 Card Drive, with plenty of keen competition and familiar faces among the players.
First prize went to Manus Kilcoyne and Seamus Larkin, who performed consistently to finish ahead of the field. Joint second place was shared by Mary and Jimmy Doyle and Alo Langan and Aiden Lydon, both pairs finishing level after closely fought hands.
The Last 10 prize was claimed by Mary and Richard Carney, while Tom Conroy and Joe Boyle took the spot prize. Raffle winners on the night were Martin Regan, James Walsh, Michael Costello and Francis McNicholas.
The largest field of the league so far saw 27 players compete for a €945 prize pool in Round 8 of the Spring Poker League at Teach O’Hora last week, with Andy Quinn taking top spot.
Quinn defeated Conor O’Hanlon heads up to secure his second consecutive win. Keith Lydon finished third, with Enda Ruane in fourth and David Sweeney in fifth. The remainder of the final table comprised Aoife Brennan (6th), Dylan Coleman (7th), Alan Sheridan (8th) and Nigel Sweeney (9th).
The result follows Round 7 the previous week, when Quinn also claimed victory. John Reynolds finished second on that occasion, with Enda Ruane in third and Kieran McGee in fourth.
In the league standings, Enda Ruane remains well clear at the top on 179 points. Keith Lydon is second on 142, followed by Conor O’Hanlon on 134. The rest of the top twelve are Andy Quinn (129), Paul Walsh (116), Gerry Groarke (103), John Reynolds (100), Michael Higgins (98), Nicky Cunnane (95), Kieran McGee (93), Michael Sheridan (85) and Alan Sheridan (83).
The league runs for fifteen weeks, with a €50 entry each round, which includes a rebuy or add-on. From each entry and rebuy/add-on, €5 goes towards the league final prize pool, with the remainder paid out on the night. At the end of the series, the top twelve players plus two qualifiers will contest a Grand Final for a prize pool of approximately €3,500.
St Louis Community School will be hosting evening classes starting on Thursday, April 16. The classes will be held at the school and will run on Thursdays from 6pm to 8pm for six weeks.
The programme offers two courses: a gardening course, facilitated by Áine Bell, Head Gardener at North Mayo Heritage Centre, and a beekeeping course, led by Dr Helen Mooney. Both courses are priced at €90 each.
For additional information or inquiries, interested participants can contact Patricia at 087-7996977 or email adulteducation@stlouiscscs.com.
A Youth 2000 Day Retreat is set to take place at Knock Shrine on Saturday April 25, offering young people an opportunity to deepen their faith in a welcoming and engaging setting.
The retreat is open to those aged between 16 and 35 and will include a structured programme of talks, personal testimonies and group activities, along with opportunities to meet others and explore different aspects of the Catholic faith.
Organisers say the day is designed to help participants develop their relationship with God while also providing a relaxed and social environment. The event operates on a donation basis, ensuring it remains accessible to all who wish to attend.
Those interested can register online at Youth2000.ie or contact the organisers directly via email at connaught@youth2000.ie for further information.
