Children's colouring book inspired by Mayo's Marian Shrine published by local woman

TALENTED Knock lady Grace Lavin has just completed a most wonderful children’s colouring book, depicting the many features which are part of the complex that is Knock Shrine and its surrounds, writes Mike Byrne.

The cover of the book features Knock Basilica, which was opened to the public 50 years ago this summer thanks to the dedicated courage and work of the late Monsignor James Horan.

The book also features the famous Apparition Chapel and the gable wall where the apparition of 1879 occurred, as well as the many other features that contribute to making Ireland’s International Marian and Eucharistic Shrine the huge attraction that it is, attracting over one million visitors throughout the year.

Grace, who also operates the popular Hopkins Flower Shop on Upper Main Street in Ballyhaunis (former home of her grandparents, the late Tom and Noreen Hopkins), is daughter of former Knock Shrine employees Jimmy and Ann (née Hopkins) Lavin.

Indeed, talent with a good eye for beauty is very much part of the Lavin family. Grace’s mother, Ann, was chief horticulturalist at Knock Shrine for many years, responsible for the magnificent splash of colour throughout the grounds that contributes splendidly to the beauty of the shrine.

Grace’s colouring book is available at Knock Shrine Book Shop at a cost of just €5 – a perfect gift for any child who likes to paint.