Wit and wisdom in newly launched book on Kilrush

‘IT’S NEVER LONELY AROUND THE FIELDS OF KILRUSH’ BOOK LAUNCH

THE history of Kilrush and the wit of some of the area’s most memorable characters were committed to record recently as Joe Tobin and Jim Ryan officially launched their book ‘It’s Never Lonely Around the Fields of Kilrush’. The aim of the project was to capture a significant period of the history of farming and rural life in the mid twentieth century as well as recording some wise words and witty stories handed down from past generations.

There was a great crowd at The Courtyard for the book’s official launch which was performed by legendary hurler Tony Doran, a man who required little introduction for those present. Also speaking on the night were sheep shearer and mental health advocate George Graham and retired teacher PJ Arthur, who has lived in the parish for the past 54 years having moved from Clare.

‘It was a great night,’ said Jim Ryan, half of the brains behind the book. ‘It was a real Late Late Show type effort. We had some wonderful speakers and it was great to listen to them.’

Jim and Joe are also hoping that the book will have some benefit to a great local cause, with all profits being donated to the Hope Cancer Support Centre. The book is now on sale priced at €10 from Steemer- O’Leary’s Newsagents in Bunclody and Candy’s in Carnew.

Jim and Joe wished to thank their special guests and everyone who came along on the night for their support.

Jim Ryan, George Graham, Tony Doran, who performed the launch; Joe Tobin, Margaret Doyle and P.J. Arthur at the launch of a brand new book on the Kilrush area, entitled ‘It’s Never Lonely Around the Fields of Kilrush’ in The Courtyard in Ferns.

Back, from left: Mary Hayden and Ann Furlong. Front: Marie Kehoe, Mary Quinn and Denis Kehoe.

Toddy Tobin, Grace Tobin and Darren Tobin.

Back, from left: John Grennan, Gus Hayden, James Grennan and Harry Brownrigg. Front: Mary Grennan, Suzi White and Larry White.

Mark Kirwan, Sinead O’Dowd and Mogue O’Dowd.

Bridget Ryan, Eileen Ryan and Betty Ryan.

Bridie Kinsella and Liz Cahill.