Paddy’s book recalls years working in Coollattin
THE community of Shillelagh and surrounding areas came out in force to support local man Paddy Behan on Thursday as he launched his memoirs ‘Part of this Place’.
Coollattin Golf Club played host to the launch event which unveiled the book that Paddy and his daughter Frances have worked on over a number of years.
He was joined by his wife Lil, sons and daughters and members of his extended family for the occasion.
The book charts Paddy’s time working in Coollattin House in the time of the Fitzwilliam family and his memories of over 80 years living in south Wicklow.
Paddy was the third generation of his family to work and live on the Coollattin Estate up until 1977 when it was sold.
Paddy, Lil and their children moved to the outskirts of the village and he worked as a greenkeeper at Coollattin Golf Club until 2009.
It was fitting that Paddy’s memoirs would be launched at the golf club, and Club Captain Kevin Stapleton had the honour of conducting the launch during which he paid a fitting tribute to Paddy.
Other speakers included club official, President Tony Ryan, Jack Lynch club secretary, and Paddy’s son Paul who told some entertaining stories about growing up in Coollattin.
The man of the moment, Paddy, delivered a fabulous speech outlining some of the content of his book, whilst also including some of the history of Coollattin and the village of Shillelagh.
In an emotionally charged room he thanked all those involved in the making of his book and welcomed locals, friends, golfers, familiar faces, and everybody who turned up on the night to support him. His daughter Frances concluded the speeches, adding that she and Paddy were overcome by the support shown on the night, and are deeply grateful to all who attended. The response to the book was wonderful and copies were sold out on the night. Paddy was delighted to sign copies for guests and everyone present wished him well and offered their congratulations on his achievement.
Further copies of ‘Part of this Place’ will be available in approximately two weeks by contacting members of the Behan family.