Passing of gifted Mayo hairdresser and musician Larry Hingerton

The death has occurred in his 93rd year of Laurence (Larry) Hingerton, 'Woodlands'', Quay Road, Westport.

Formerly of Ballinrobe, the deceased was widely known and respected throughout the region as a result of his work in the hairdressing profession as well as his involvement in music, golf and boxing over the years

After learning the skills of ladies hairdressing in France as a young man, he returned home to open his own salons, Laurenco, in Westport and Castlebar.

He later became a hairdressing instructor with AnCO (now FÁS) in Sligo, helping many young people across the region in their career paths.

In recognition of his contribution to the profession, he was honoured with life membership by the Irish Hairdressers Association some years ago.

An accomplished musician, he was musical director of Westport Town Band for many years and Larry was also a founder member of the popular group, West Coast Jazz.

Along with John 'Porky' McGreal, he helped to reactive St. Anne's Boxing Club, Westport, in the 1960s, a major breakthrough being made in 1971 when Peter Mullen become the club's first ever national junior champion.

Larry was a keen golfer throughout his life and was a former president and honourary life member of Westport Golf Club.

Predeceased by his daughter Sharon, Larry will be sadly missed by his loving wife Valerie (née Duckworth, late of Rosbeg, Westport), daughters Carol (Dublin) and Stephanie (Westport), son Shane (Madrid), sons-in-law Sean Burke and Antonio Braz, daughter-in-law Marta, grandchildren Jessica, Hannah, Jack, Iselia, Emma and Aaron, great-grandchildren Leo and Max, brothers Chris (Ballinrobe), Raymond (UK) and Noel (Seattle, USA), sister Betty (Florida USA), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Requiem Mass will take place this evening (Wednesday) at 7 p.m. in St. Mary's Church, Westport.

Removal from his residence on Thursday at 12:30 p.m. for burial in Aughavale Cemetery via Westport Quay.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.