Busy time for Devonshire Day organisers

The IMMRAMA fundraiser, 'Devonshire Day' took place in Lismore Castle last Sunday. IMMRAMA as readers will know, is an annual travel writing festival, that takes place this year from 13th to 16th June.

Devonshire Day attendees were treated to refreshments in the comfortable surroundings of the castle - a setting that's normally out of bounds to the public.

Organisers reported 'heavy bookings' for an event than ran from 11am to 4.30pm. The Devonshire Day experience also included an address by the castle's butler, Denis Nevin, who regaled guests with the castle's long history and accounts of famous figures who've visited the castle over the years.

The outdoor part of Devonshire Day comprised a tour of the castle gardens by head gardener, Lee Behegan. In this regard, the weather wasn't entirely co-operative, with heavy showers a constant threat.

ENJOYABLE DAY

Overall, Devonshire Day 2024 was a resounding success, with the combination of refreshments, a historic setting and a walk through the extensive gardens proving a big hit. Organisers are very grateful to the management of Lismore Castle for facilitating the event.

IMMRAMA COMING IN JUNE

Devonshire Day is also the unofficial start of the tourist season in Lismore and despite the horrendous weather to date, there's an expectation that the coming 'summer' will be busy.

Finally, a reminder that there are big names - Michael Harding (actor), Tommie Gorman (journalist) and Amanda Neri (opera singer) coming to this year's IMMRAMA festival. Tickets available from www.lismore-immrama.com or 0863618264.

(Pic: John Ahern) Sean and Claire Barry, from Castlelyons, with IMMRAMA committee members at last Sunday’s Devonshire Day in Lismore.

(Pic: John Ahern) Devonshire Day attendees, enjoying a tour of the gardens in Lismore Castle last Sunday.

(Pic: John Ahern) Majella Mulqueen, from Fermoy, in the company of Tomas O’Halloran and Castletownroche native, Denis O’Neill, at last Sunday’s Devonshire Day in Lismore.

(Pic: John Ahern) Michael and Betty Hegarty, from Castlelyons, who attended last Sunday’s Devonshire Day in Lismore Castle.

(Pic: John Ahern) Locals, Linda Sweeney and Aidan O’Gorman, who attended last Sunday’s Devonshire Day fundraiser in Lismore Castle.