Local Notes: Ukrainian Community visited Clogher Heritage Centre.
Members of the Ukrainian Community who recently visited Clogher Heritage Centre
It is with deep and abiding sadness that we record the death of Liam O’Toole, Glasgort, Ballintubber, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Aged 96 Liam passed away to his eternal award on October 22, 2024. Liam spent his last days in his beloved Glasgort home, surrounded by his wife Teresa, his children and grandchildren who cherished him deeply.
There is so much one can record about Liam’s remarkable life, his involvements in local community and sporting affairs, his innate warmth of personality, humour, ability to entertain, abundant skills and his passion for Ballintubber CLG that it would surely fill volumes. Truly he was one of Ballintubber club’s all-time great legends. Liam first lined out for Ballintubber in the 1950s and he followed the club’s fortunes closely long after he hung up his boots. Even in his 96th year, Liam was a regular supporter at club functions and matches. He took great pride in seeing his grandson, Tiernan, wear the red and white of ‘Tubber that he himself wore with such distinction. Liam himself never failed to wear his beloved red tie with the Abbey crest at any and all such club occasions. Ballintubber Club honoured him with a Hall of Fame Award some years ago as indeed did the Green and Red Trust of Mayo.
Liam won a West Mayo junior title with Ballintubber in 1960 and he was also a valued member of the West Mayo panel that won the county senior title in that same year. Though he played wing-back in Gaelic football, Liam proved skilful also with the oval ball when he togged with Ballinrobe Rugby Club for a period. Some of the tales on how he evaded ‘the ban’ have lived on in local legend.
Liam enjoyed singing and he had a repertoire of great Irish ballads. He was a staunch member of the Ballintubber Abbey Choir, with whom he regularly performed until quite recently. He and his wife Teresa were also synonymous with the Barney Set Dancers and Straw boys, performing splendidly at weddings and social occasions for many years. Liam was also an expert card player and loved the traditional game of 25. He was most adept at using a trump or co-card.
Though gifted at singing, set dancing and card playing, nothing could capture a room or motivate a young team like Liam’s rendition of Brian Boru’s speech to his legions on the eve of the 1014 Battle of Clontarf. More than once, Liam held a dressing room full of young teenage boys captivated by the special patriotic piece he recited with amazing spirit and clarity.
Liam was also a keen farmer and an expert in stonework skills being an employee of the OPW for many years. During the 1960s he was involved in the restoration of Ballintubber Abbey, carving its native stone altar, and erecting its hanging cross. He was also a great lover of horse racing and loved the odd flutter at Ballinrobe racecourse or on big National Hunt race days.
Liam will be hugely missed by his family and by all associated with Ballintubber Community, GAA Club and the wider public who held him in the highest regard.
Liam is deeply regretted by his wife Teresa, his family Maura Cuffe (Castlebar), Tommie O’Toole (Ballintubber), Margaret Rowan (Dunboyne), Noel O’Toole (Castlebar), Helen O’Toole (Seattle, USA), Ann Morley (Claremorris), Colm O’Toole (Portlaoise), Jim O’Toole (Ballintubber), Carmel Staunton (Carraholly), Monica O’Toole (Ballintubber) and Roisin Deehan (Limavaddy), sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, partners, 26 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, brother, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Huge crowds attended as his remains reposed at Ballintubber Resource Centre on Wednesday evening from 5pm with removal at 8pm to Ballintubber Abbey. Ballintubber GAA Club held a Guard of Honour to honour one of its finest sons. Liam’s Funeral Mass was concelebrated in his beloved Abbey on Thursday morning at 11am by Fr Michael Farragher, P.P, Fr Frank Fahey, Fr Ulick Burke and Right Rev Dom Laurence Walsh, OCSO, Roscrea. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery followed by evocative traditional music tributes by family members. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm dilis.
Ballintubber GAA jackpot has surpassed €7,000 and is snowballing fast. The numbers drawn on Sunday night, October 20, were 9, 23, 25 and 36. Consolation prizes went to Peter Rowan, Nicholas O’Kelly, Helena Chambers, Carnacon Juniors. Mandy Morrin and Declan Joyce. The jackpot stood at €7,300 on last Sunday night, October 27.
The annual general meeting of Ballintubber GAA Club will be held in Clogher Clubrooms on Sunday evening, November 10 at 5pm.
Belated best wishes are extended to Martin Kelly, Killawalla on the occasion of his 50th birthday. Martin puts in untold hours work for Ballintubber GAA club. He is hugely involved in fundraising, maintenance work, upgrading facilities, cutting & marking pitches and stewarding. Martin, Joanne and family are wished many more such joyous occasions in the decades ahead.
The numbers drawn in the Ballyglass FC lotto on Monday, October 21, were 11, 13, 22 and 25. There was no winner of the €9,400 jackpot and no match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Sarah Kilgallon, Mayo Abbey; Malachy and Maia Waddle, c/o Byrnes; Cian Walsh; Dee Connolly, Summerhill and Jacinta Walshe.
Winners of the cards played on Monday, October 21: 1st Kitty Rumley and Judy Clarke, 2nd Kevin Burke and Noel Costello and 3rd, Seamus Nevin and Martin Ford. The last 9 winners were Cathal Hennelly and Tom Fitzpatrick and the raffle prizes went to Kevin Burke and Noel Costello. The progressive 25 games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
It was a case of the calm before the storm on Saturday last for the Hallowe’en Market at Ballyglass Community Centre. It was a crisp Autumn day, ideal weather to sit outside and enjoy a hot drink from Brewpoint coffee van and one of Féile Catering’s delicious baked treats, or a sweet treat from Crepetastic crepe van. There was the usual array of craft items on sale, including Karen Moran Art, Bonne Etoile soaps, Binne Mac Art, Claudia Lima bows, O&A candles, Bernie Reilly crochet, Linda Egan’s baby knitwear, Genevieve’s holistic healing, Ita’s woollies, Melanie’s art and tote bags and Sammy’s Resin art.
There was plenty for the children, with face-painting and balloons by Catherine, a Hallowe’en Costume sale organised by the hard-working Parents’ Association from Mountpleasant NS, Elisa’s sweet stall and a fantastic Treasure Hunt to keep them all on their toes. There were some great costumes on display from the little ones too. Thanks to everyone who came to support this lovely community event. We will see you all on November 30 for the special Christmas Market. More details to follow.
The raffle winners at the market were Katelyn Gill - Slime making kit; Nora Conroy – Bottle of Jameson Whisky; Freya Burke – Set of mugs; Tom Staunton – Nail voucher; Cara Heneghan – Set of Galway crystal glasses; Aoife Corcoran – Shampoo set from Helen Malone. Sincere Thanks has been extended to all who sponsored prizes.
In an effort to keep the beautiful village of Ballyglass looking her best, a group of volunteers will meet at the community centre every Wednesday evening from 6.30 to 7.30 for a clean-up, sweeping, light weeding, and litter-picking. If you can spare an hour a week, you are most welcome to join. Call Breege on 087 6292164. Anyone who has their own tools, gloves and high-vis jacket is asked to bring them along.
Irish dancing classes for children aged 4 and upwards in the Community Centre continue every Wednesday from 4.30 to 5.30, and cost €5 per class, pay as you go. Beginners are very welcome.
Congrats to the Ballyglass U14 team on their win against Fahy in Milebush Umbro Park on Saturday last. Both teams defended well in the first half. Fahy were awarded a penalty in the first 5 minutes but Ballyglass goalkeeper, Shay O’Toole made a heroic save to keep the sides level. Ballyglass came out fighting in the second half, showing determination and skill and securing a 5-1 victory at the final whistle. Mark O’Malley delivered a Man-of-the-Match performance, strongly supported by stand out player’s captain David Keane, Ethan Concannon, Brian Keane and Ethan Fahy. Well done to the whole team on their great achievement.
Art classes have commenced in Ballyglass Community Centre on Mondays at 6.45pm. 6 classes cost €50. Anyone who is interested upgrading their art skills can contact Nora on 087 9729672.
The Christian Community in the parish welcomes its newest members Mylo Karl O’Donnell and Theo Michael Dempsey who were baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on Saturday, October 19. Congratulations to their parents and families.
Lough Carra Catchment Association and Lough Carra LIFE were delighted recently to welcome the TY students from Coláiste Iognáid to Lough Carra. With fine weather prevailing, a rewarding few hours were spent exploring and identifying the invertebrates in Carra's waters. Unfortunately, many of the lake's species are now under threat due to the effects of nutrient enrichment, while pollution-tolerant species are gaining hold. A big thank you has been extended to their teacher, Clodagh, and to Jen from Corrib Beo for facilitating the visit. It is hoped to build on this collaboration, and that it will be the first of many visits connecting the two beautiful waterways.
Congratulations are extended to Darren McNeely and Amy Murphy who were married on Saturday, October 19, in the church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Glencastle. They are wished health and happiness.
Rosary and prayers in the parish graveyards for November are as follows; Killawalla at 12 noon on November 2; Ballintubber at 1pm on November 2, and Carnacon at 2pm on November 2. All the Holy Souls are remembered at this time of the year.
The Christian Community welcomes its newest member Kai Thomas Butler, baptised in St Mary’s Church, Carnacon on Saturday, October 26. Congratulations to his parents and family.
Mayo Cancer Support thank all those who supported its recent church gate collection at Ballintubber Abbey. A total of €276.67 was raised. Special thanks are extended to the volunteers who undertook the collection. All funds will help fund the provision of free support services to people affected by cancer. See www.mayocancersupport.ie for more information.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Bernie Lydon, Glasgort on the death last week of her mother, Maureen Flynn, St Bridget’s Crescent, Castlebar, May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
There will be a crime prevention talk in the Scioból tonight Tuesday, October 29, at 8pm. Ballintubber Community Council in conjunction with the Garda Crime Prevention Officer are holding this public meeting and a strong local attendance is urged.
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Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto currently stood at €14,200 on October 19 and the numbers drawn were 4, 14, 17 and 32.
The online winners were Noreen Hughes, Julie Lally The jackpot stood at €14,300 on last Saturday night, October 26.
The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated. You can play on line / Ticéadaí le fáil ar líne Ag: https://smartlotto.ie/clg-thuar-mhic-eadaigh/.
Pilates with Ailís which commenced on Wednesday, October 23, will run to November 27. Further information is available by emailing eolas@tourmakeady or calling 094 9544295.
Would you like to see your photo in the 2025 Gaeilge Dhúiche Sheoigheach agus Thuar Mhic Éadaigh Calendar? Send your photo with your name, address and phone number to opt.cdst@gmail.com or by Post to the above address. 12 photos will be selected for the Calendar. Spriocdháta/Deadline: Dé hAoine 1ú Samhain/Friday, November 1.
Tourmakeady NS lotto winner ball No 25 was Eileen Barker. The next round of the lotto bonus ball will commence on November 16. Please let the school know if you wish to continue with your ball number.
The winter season of Irish classes have commenced in Halla Tuar Mhic Eadaigh on Wednesdays each week. At 10m there will be a morning session for complete beginners. For more experienced speakers there is a Seisiún Comhrá from 11 to 12pm (midday). Interested persons can register at www.gailgedstme.ie/ranganna or contact Stiofán at 087 23970227 /opt.cdst@gmail.com.
Teagasc are now establishing panels for temporary advisory posts across their network of advisory regions. The closing date is October 31, at 12 noon. Further details can be found on https://www.teagasc.ie/.../opportunities/current-vacancies/.
The latest Killawalla Community Council lotto draw took place on October 20. The numbers drawn were 2, 3, 7 and 9. The consolation prize winners were Martin Kelly, Mary Hoban, and Shauna McGing. The next draw takes place on November 3, in Pakie’s Lounge, Killawalla.
Thanks have been extended to everyone who contributed and donated to the recent tea morning and taffle at the bingo in Partry in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice. The total collected was €828 .70 and it has been forwarded.
Partry FC numbers draw takes place weekly on Wednesdays. Congrats to John Hennelly, Partry who was a recent winner on number 33.
Congrats to Orla O’Néill, Partry who was a recent winner of Partry numbers Saturday night draw.
Move it or lose it gentle exercise classes in Killawalla Community Centre Wednesday evening at 7.30pm and an optional cuppa and chat afterwards for anyone looking for a way to pass a dark evening. Come along at 7.30pm or contact Louise 086 6034601 for information.
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The death has taken place of Maureen Flynn née Lyons, St. Bridget’s Crescent, Castlebar and late of Kilmacrade, Breaffy. Maureen passed away peacefully in the care of the staff of Cuan Chaitríona Nursing Home, Castlebar, surrounded by her loving family on October 23. Predeceased by her husband Sean, parents Tim and Delia Lyons, sisters Nellie and Bridie, brother-in-law Joe McNicholas, sister-in-law Marian and daughter-in-law Bríd, she is deeply regretted by her family, daughters Bernie (Lydon, Ballintubber), Tish (Walshe, Castlebar) and Delia (Ruane, Castlebar), sons Tadgh (Breaffy), Sean (Castlebar) and Wally (Castlebar), brothers Timmy (Breaffy) and Tom (Manulla), sister-in-law Maura (Manulla), brother-in-law Patsy (Roughneen, Balla), sons-in-law Con, Louie and Pat, daughters-in-law Carmel and Sharon, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
Maureen’s remains reposed at Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, on last Friday evening at 6pm with removal at 7.30pm to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. Her Requiem Mass was celebrated on Saturday at 1pm followed by burial ceremonies afterwards in Castlebar New Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Breaffy GAA lotto stood at a massive €25,400 for the October 22 draw. The numbers drawn were, 15, 17, 22 and Bonus number 9. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners. Congrats to the consolation prizewinners. The club have extended sincere thanks to all who support the weekly draws. Play Online: https://www.lottoraiser.ie/BreaffyGAA/.
http://www.breaffygaa.ie/breaffy-gaa-lotto/. The jackpot stood at €25,600 for tonight’s draw on October 29.
Congratulations to Breaffy U17s who captured the Division 2 Homeland title with a 0-14 to 0-13 win over Carras. The match was very exciting, competitive and sporting from start to finish. There was only a kick of the ball between the two teams at the final whistle with Breaffy winning by 1 point. Best wishes to Breaffy who now meet Carraroe Galway in the Connaught semi final on Tuesday, October 29, (this evening) at 8pm in Connaught Centre of Excellence in Bekan.
Congrats to Edwin McGreal whose book “Our Finest Hour” was launched as part of the Wild Atlantic Words Literary Festival.
The book is on sale in bookshops throughout Mayo this week and is also available online via https://www.mayobooks.ie/Our-Finest-Hour-Edwin-McGreal... where it can be shipped anywhere in the world.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot is fast approaching €9,000. The jackpot stood at €8,800 on Sunday, October 20. The numbers drawn were 7, 9, 15 and 18. The lucky dip winners of €30 were, Greta and Tony Purcell, Ger Cuffe, The Quinn Family and Mairead Keane. The weekend jackpot stood at €8,900. Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestors and Flukies.
Congrats to Ballyheane FC who were selected by First Choice Credit Union as a recipient for the installation of 20 solar panels and an award of 18k towards the cost of installation. Their application met the criteria for benefit to the community sustainability and alignment with the values of the credit union. Congrats to the Club on their good fortune.
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Errew Community Committee has extended thanks to James Kilbane Music for supporting Errew’s newly restored community centre.
There are two shows scheduled on Sunday, November 17. The 6pm show is now fully booked but James has kindly offered to perform for an afternoon performance at 2pm as well. There are limited tickets available for the 2pm show. It will be an intimate afternoon of folk songs in support of the new centre, Please ring/message 087 2029144 to reserve a ticket or email errewcc@gmail.com with any queries. Thanks for your support.
The Clogher Heritage Complex played host again to a group of Ukrainian visitors and their friends on Thursday last. The group were led on a leisurely walk as far as the Sand Martin Nesting Wall which is a new addition to the area since the group visited last year. Afterwards they had refreshments at the Heritage Cottage where they enjoyed the open fire and the homely atmosphere. The Heritage Cottage is open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10am to 4pm each week and at other times by arrangement.
Clogher Card for Friday, October 18, were; 1st Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion, 2nd Jim Connor and Cathal Hennelly and 3rd Gay Conway and Mary Kelly. The last 10 winners were Joe Thomas and Mary McDonagh. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night. Every card player, new or experienced is made welcome.
On Thursday last also a local group welcomed Robyn Cressman from Tesco, Castlebar as she presented the Clogher Environmental Group with a cheque for €627 the proceeds of the Blue Token promotion at the Castlebar Store. Congrats to members of the Clogher Environmental Group.
On Saturday, November 16, the annual Clogher Table Quiz will take place in the Drum Inn at 9pm. Tables of four participants are desired. There will also be a raffle on the night. This is always a very enjoyable quiz. All welcome.
On Sunday, December 15, Santa Clause will make a return visit to the Santa’s Grotto at the Clogher Heritage Complex. This will be a very special day for all the little people of Clogher and the surrounding areas so note the date and watch this space and social media for further details in the coming weeks.
There will be rosary and prayers for the Holy Souls in Drum Graveyard on Sunday, November 3, at 3pm and everyone will be welcome.
Errew ‘Pay as you Go’ Breakfast Club and After School facility welcomes children from the surrounding area - 7.30-9.10am and 2-5.30pm. It is a drop-in child care service with no weekly or monthly set fees. Contact Ríona Lawless on 087 9005099 for more information or https://errewns.com/breakfast-club-and-afterschool/.
A beginner 6 week series of yoga classes has commenced in Errew Community Centre every Monday and Tuesday from 7-7.45pm. If you are interested in joining the next block of 6 week classes contact Lorraine on 087 6835623 or lorrainelavelleyoga@gmail.com.
