Launch of parish magazine heralds start of Christmas in Mayo county town

The 54nd edition of the annual Castlebar Parish Magazine is currently on sale at local outlets.

It is packed with all the traditional features that have made it such a popular festive publication for the people of the town and surrounding areas for such an extended period of time.

An image by Alison Laredo of Market Square all aglow for Christmas time adorns the front cover while, on the back page is an eye-catching photograph, captured by local auctioneer Kevin Beirne, of a winter's evening at Chapel Street with the Church of the Holy Rosary in silhouette.

The magazine was edited by Joe Redmond and published by Jim Bohan of JBohan Design.

In his editorial, Mr. Redmond made the point that an exceptionally large number of parishioners, young and old, had passed from this life over the past year.

Indeed, 10 of the 130 pages are dedicated to those who died in the community since the 2024 magazine was published.

Stated Mr. Redmond: "We especially remember Frank Durcan, a great supporter of the parish magazine since issue one.

"He was most generous in his support by advertising and contributing numerous photographs and historical information over the years."

A message by the cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Councillor Al McDonnell, bemoaned the rise in online shopping as people choose to bypass the local market in order to purchase cheaper goods and products from abroad.

"They do not realise the damage they are causing to a local economy that has witnessed far too many long-established businesses closing over the past number of years.

"This trend will continue unless there is a radical change in shopping mentalities and I appeal to Castlebar people to consider the implications," he added.

The magazine opens with a lovely article on shopkeeper Shane Rodgers, described in the headline as 'a shining example to all'.

The writer, J.K, notes: "It is heartening to see as you approach the Mall that you will still catch a glimpse of the past, with the warm glow of lights on in Gavin's Shop, still open for business.

"All is not lost to the local shopping experience in Castlebar.

"Thanks to the hardwork, dedication and wonderful foresight of Shane Rodgers remaining vigilant by diversifying and remaining relevant to customers' needs, you will still get the warm greeting, friendly banter, word for the family and a thank you for your custom."

Overall, there's a wide range splendid articles and photographic features which will bring joy to Castlebar people at home and abroad over the festive season.

The contributors include Sean Rice, Liam Egan, Sean Lyons, Alan King, David McDonald, Fergus Walsh, Ray Lawlor, John Healy, Johnny Mee, Noel Campbell, Jimmy Blake, Fiona Neary, Tom Kelly, Josephine Higgins Moran, Peter Killeen, James Cahill and Joe Redmond.

Tom Campbell, Alison Laredo, the family of the late Liam Lyons, Michael Donnelly, Frank Fullard, John Mee, Mike Staunton, Jim O'Connor, Jack Loftus, Frank Dolan, Wynne Photography, Bernard Kennedy and Philip Redmond contributed photographs.

Compulsive reading for all people with a heart in Castlebar, it is available at €10 at all local outlets.