Mayo town to mark 80th anniversary of death of legendary war-time aviator

A short commemorative graveside wreath laying service will be held at St Catherine's Churchyard Cemetery in Newport on Friday, September 4, at 4 p.m.

This will mark the 80th anniversary of the death of one of Ireland's greatest ever war time aviators, the legendary Major Thomas Falcon Hazel.

Access to this private cemetery is via the laneway beside Sean Kelly's Butcher Shop on the Main Street.

Major Hazel served in some of the most horrific military battles on the Western Front during the early part of World War One, before transferring to the new embryonic Royal Flying Corps later to become the RAF.

He went on to become an all-time flying ace and legendary hero.

He was one of the few who survived the war, indeed on one horrific occasion he was shot down. He also served in the Home Guard during World War 2.

The world-famous author Robert Joycyln, who wrote a recently published best-selling book about the life and time of Major Hazel, will be in attendance.

All are welcome.