Train show just the ticket

PIPER WON’T GET ‘CARRIAGE’ AWAY

THERE was no way that Ravensdale uileann piper Finnian O Conchubhair was going the opportunity to play in probably the most luxurious location ever when the Belmond Grand Hibernian train pulled into Clarke Station in Dundalk at the weekend.

At a cost of €3,000 per night, the train is akin to the famous Orient Express and stopped in Dundalk with American guests on board. Finnian’s dad, Gerry O’Connor, gave him and Grainne Smith, a button accordionist from Kingscourt the opportunity to provide entertainment for passengers.

Finnian said: ‘We arrived at Clarke station on Saturday night where we were greeted by the train manager. He brought us into the bar/lounge carriage on the Great Hibernian. He welcomed us the best he could by serving us one of their best whiskey. When he had left us I looked at Grainne and laughed and said: ‘How did we land this gig’ and she laughed and sipped her whiskey. The guests started to make their way to the bar after having a luxurious meal in the carriage next to us.

‘We began to play a few tunes but they were eager to dance and join in. One of them wanted a sing-song and with they started to sing Molly Malone’ and everyone joined in. More songs were sang, and tunes played and they where in top form. Before we knew it the night was over. We received great compliments from a number of them and even asked to visit Kentucky to play at a local folk festival. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing on such a unique train and hope we get such an opportunity again’.