Tubbercurry

MAY FLOWERS

The old tradition of delivering a sprig of May flowers to houses was very much alive in Tubbercurry for generations, and over the last few decades it was carried on quietly and without fuss by Joanie McCormack Rochford RIP

Joanie passed away last year and it was thought that the tradition would die. However, on May 1 this year, the May flower sprig appeared again on doorsteps with the message ‘May Day, in loving memory of Joanie’.

In these challenging times amid the COVID-19 lockdown, it was delightful to see the May flower delivered, and again by we presume Joanie’s little helpers of many years.

Small acts of kindness and traditions like this help lift spirits in difficult times and we say Thank You.

CONNACHT RANGERS

The Centenary Anniversary of the Connacht Rangers Mutiny in India was scheduled to take place in Tubbercurry on June 27 this year with President Michael D Higgins in official attendance. However, this has now been deferred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has been provisionally re-scheduled for November 2 next.

Local man in Tubbercurry, James Gorman was a participant of the mutiny as part of their objection to the Black and Tans activities in 1920 in Ireland during the War of Independence. At that time the Connacht Rangers were a Regiment of the British Army, who had served for over a hundred years up to that point with loyalty, including in the First World War.

However, the atrocities carried out by the Black and Tans in 1920 were getting worldwide criticism, and this was what sparked the mutiny.

The leader of the mutiny James Daly was shot on November 2, 1920, for his part in igniting the rebellion, but James Gorman from Tubbercurry and his colleagues lived to tell the tale.

Hopefully, the country will have reverted to some form of normality by November to facilitate this ceremony proceeding. More details later.

TIDY TOWNS

At this time of the year there is usually great activity by the Tidy Town Committee on various projects around town, but this cannot be done in an organised fashion this year due to the COVID-19 restrictions.

However, residents should still be aware that they can do their own bit of Tidy Town work around their own property or on public spaces near their home. With so many people off work at present it is an ideal activity to keep occupied and keep boredom at bay. To be fair to some people, some individuals are doing great voluntary work of a Tidy Town nature using their own initiative but more could be done.

Many approach roads and streets have litter accumulating that is visible on walking. If you live on a littered road, why not take an hour to go out with a bag and collect the litter?

It can be deposited at the Council Yard on Ballina road or collection of it can be arranged by Geraldine Brennan or Roger McCarrick.

CORRESPONDENT

Email Roger McCarrick tubbercurrynotes@gmail.com.