The Connaught Telegraph launches unique Mayo photographic collection 

A unique publication celebrating the people of Mayo through photographs, entitled 'Mayo Life Through the Lens', has been launched by The Connaught Telegraph.

The ceremony was performed by the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Blackie Gavin, at the Castle Book Shop, Castlebar.

Packed with over 300 photographs from the archives of the oldest provincial newspaper in Ireland, the book represents a wonderful collection of local history.

Stated Councillor Gavin: “Having scanned through the book earlier, I am intrigued by all the memories it has brought back to me through the many faces contained in the pages from the world of current affairs, politics, religion and sport.

“It's a lovely collection and I know it will appeal greatly to Mayo people at home and abroad, particularly at this time of year with Christmas swiftly approaching.

“I am proud to be associated with the publication and encourage everybody to pick up a copy as there is a limited print run.

“Well done to the editor and staff of The Connaught Telegraph for compiling it and compliments go to the Celtic Media Group for rolling out this concept through its other newspapers in Navan, Mullingar, Athlone and Cavan.

“I know it is going to be a winner and I hope we will see a second and third volumes in the years ahead.

“On behalf of Mayo County Council, I pay tribute to The Connaught Telegraph for its central role in the community and I think the newspaper's online and digital strategy has taken the county by storm in recent years, although I personally still have a great fondness for the print edition, which is on sale every Tuesday.

“Best of luck in the years ahead and keep churning out the stories and photographs which form such an integral part of Mayo's history.”

In his address, the editor of the publication, Tom Kelly, explained the vast majority of the newspaper's photographic collection had been transferred from Castlebar after The Connaught Telegraph moved from Cavendish Lane to its new premises on Main Street, Castlebar, a number of years ago.

He elabored: “Because of this publication, 'May Life Through the Lens', we succeeded in bringing the collection back home from storage facilities in Cavan and Navan.

“And it is from those files, tidily packages and placed in cardbord boxes by Todd Burke and others following weekly publication, that we handpicked the 300 or so images that appear in this book.

“I think the final result is a wonderful and unique collection of the many personalities, organisations and landscapes that have shaped Mayo over the decades.”

Mr. Kelly paid to the many photographers whose work is central to this nostalgic journey down memorry lane.

They include Liam Lyons, Tom Campbell, Frank Dolan, Paul Heverin, Derek Mandel, Michael Donnelly, Damien Slater, Ken Wright, Tommy Eibrand, Michael McLaughlin, Alison Laredo, Trish Forde, Patsy Glynn, Keith Heneghan, Philip Stafford, Jack Ruane and Michael Connaughton.

He added: “A special word of thanks is owing to the business community for supporting the publication as well as the designers, printers and proof reader, Deirdre Kelly.

“I hope readers enjoy pouring over these images of former times in Mayo, many of which illustrate how much the county has changed over the years.”

The book (€10) is in sale at selected outlets across the county as well as at the offices of The Connaught Telegraph, 1 Main Street, Castlebar.