Mayo launch of Big Tom book postponed due to heartbreaking death

A LAUNCH of a book about Big Tom in Castlebar on Wednesday night has been postponed due to a heartbreaking death in the late singer's extended family.

Rita Bogdanova, partner of Dermot McBride, one of Big Tom's sons, died suddenly of health complications at the weekend after giving birth to a baby girl.

The infant survived the birth and is doing well, according to family sources.

It's been a hugely difficult 12 months for the Co. Monaghan based McBrides following the death of Big Tom, aged 81 in April. He was prececeased by his wife, Rose, some months before.

As a result of the latest death, the launch of the book, 'Big Tom: The King of Irish Country' at Bridge Street Lounge, Castlebar, on Wednesday has been put back to a later date.

The book was written by journalist and broadcaster Tom Gilmore. The launch was to have been performed by Michael Commins of Midwest Radio and Hot Country TV.