One night for charity– countless Mayo memories

Remember when Castlebar’s pubs had live music almost every night?

When meeting your friends was as simple as “See you in McGoldrick's next Sunday” - and everyone actually showed up?

No WhatsApp, no Snapchat - just a handshake, a pint and a great night’s craic.

Well, this October 25, Bank Holiday Sunday, from 9 p.m. in Garbo’s Nightclub, a community group is bringing the spirit of McGoldrick’s back for one unforgettable reunion.

Several of the bands that made those nights so special will be announced over the coming weeks.

Expect great music, plenty of memories and an optional raffle with some fantastic prizes.

Best of all, every performer is giving their time free of charge, with all proceeds going to support fellow musician Brenda Grealis, who is living with Stiff Person Syndrome PERM - a debilitating condition which has forced her to stop playing music professionally, and now requiring constant care.

Cast your mind back to the early 1990s. McGoldrick’s, leased and expertly managed by Pat Tierney for many years, wasn’t just a pub - it was Castlebar’s living room.

Birthdays were celebrated, victories toasted, friendships forged and music discovered.

For more than a few lucky couples, it was also where love blossomed - Castlebar’s original dating app, where catching someone’s eye across a crowded bar was all it took!

And then there was the P&T phone box in the corner. It never got a moment’s peace, carrying everything from “Mam, don’t wait up” to “Tell them I’m in McGoldrick’s!” - with the added bonus that half the pub probably heard your conversation.

Every weekend the place was packed, the music and drinks were flowing, and somehow the legendary bar staff could remember a dozen drink orders without writing down a thing.

To this day, nobody knows how they did it!

Now it’s time to do it all over again.

If your band played in McGoldrick’s and you fancy dusting off the instruments, get in touch with Declan Durcan before September 25 on (086) 265 8038.

He’d love to have you on the bill - there’s no admission charge for participating bands, who are generously giving their time for free.

Tickets are €22 and available now on https://mcgoldricks.eventbrite.ie, or physical tickets from Hog’s Heaven Bar and from Mayo Leisure Point reception.

Venue capacity is limited, so early ticket purchase is recommended. Don’t forget some cash if you’d like to take part in the raffle for fantastic prizes.

Spread the word... because some reunions are simply too good to miss!

If you can’t make it on the night but would still like to contribute, you can donate to the Gofundme page https://gofund.me/ebbc1aae