By Dan Walsh at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford town
GLEN POLLARD, the official from the Guinness Book of Records and adjudicator, waves the certificate and declares the record for the Biggest Ceilí Band in the world. (Pic; Patrick Browne).
A new Guinness World Record was set when 1,018 musicians from Ireland and beyond gathered today at Chadwick’s Wexford Park to form the largest Céilí Band.
Glen Pollard from Guinness World Records officiated as the old world record was smashed.
A fringe event for Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann, which was on its fifth day in Wexford town, the record attempt was inspired by the fact that the world famous Guinness Book of Records began in Castlebridge in 1954 and a local committee are attempting to seek every copy that was published!
Tunes played at today’s world record Ceilí Band achievement were ‘The Wexford Polka’, ‘The Gaelscoil Polka’, and ‘The Little Diamond’.
The Wexford record was attended by musicians from countries including the USA, France, Japan, the UK and Canada.
Instruments included tin whistles, fiddles, concertina, accordion, banjo, guitar, mandolin, drums, piano and uileann pipes, to name a few!
Unsurprisingly, following last year’s successful record for the largest tin whistle ensemble, the tin whistle was the most prevalent instrument played today.
The previous record for the largest Céilí Band was 384 people, and was set by The Late Late Show, at Croke Park, in Dublin, on March 15th 2024.
The small open fishing boat had launched from CAHORE (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh
Courtown RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew were called out on Wednesday evening to a small open fishing boat with engine trouble in tricky conditions and failing light following a 112 /999 call to the Coast Guard from a concerned member of the public.
The small open fishing boat that had launched from Cahore got into difficulties close to Roney Point after they had problems restarting their engine and were forced to beach the boat.
Courtown RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Frank, with three volunteer crew launched at 8.20pm in fresh conditions and proceeded to Roney Point where they quickly located the fishing boat. After a full assessment of the situation lifeboat helm Fergus Slevin determined it would be best to tow the fishing boat and its two occupants to the safety of Courtown Harbour.
Even though conditions were tricky with a fresh breeze, strong tide and fading light, the lifeboat arrived back at Courtown with the boat in tow as darkness fell.
The two occupants of the fishing boat were extremely grateful for the assistance of Courtown RNLI Lifeboat and thanked the crew for everything.
Courtown RNLI Inshore Lifeboat returned to station at 9.40pm.
The 15th annual Gap Arts Festival themed “A Rural Celebration of Culture, Creativity and Community” opens at Ballythomas, Gorey, this evening (Thursday) and runs until Sunday, with a vibrant programme of theatre, music, workshops, art, and family events that bring professional arts to the heart of rural Ireland. Founded in 2011 to “fill the gap” where professional theatre had long been absent, the festival has grown into a much-loved and vital cultural event, praised by the European Festivals Association as “a unique festival” and nominated for the European Rural Inspiration Award for its success in community engagement.
This year marks a major milestone as the Festival produces its own theatre production. Each evening, the festival will open with a special screening of Wagon Wheels, a short documentary film by local director Terence White. The film explores the rich folk-art tradition of painting Traveller barrel-top wagons, a beautiful and culturally significant practice captured through a sensitive local lens. Following the screening, audiences will experience the headline theatrical performance: Shep by Garrett Keogh. Following sell-out runs at the Galway International Arts Festival and Kilkenny, the critically acclaimed play Shep comes home to Wexford. Set in rural Ireland, Shep is a magical realist tale where a black and white collie meets a golden Labrador – but does the course of love ever run smooth…? Performed by a stellar cast including Luke Griffin, Noni Stapleton, and Pat Nolan – this gripping and imaginative production conjures dogs, storms, tractors, forestry lorries, sheep and blood… (N.B.; Not suitable for children). Continuing its mission to nurture local talent and participation, the festival features two exciting community-led projects:
● Music Mentoring: Experienced musicians coach the next generation of singers and players in a dynamic learning environment.
● Subh Dubh – Cnuasach na Tíre: A unique bilingual foraging and food project exploring the rich tradition of local hedgerow fruits, culminating in jam, jelly, and cordial making. Supported by Creative Ireland and Wexford County Council.
● Family Movie Night – Shrek the Third under the stars in the Community Field, a beloved late-night tradition.
● Drop-In Family Art Day – Saturday at Ballythomas School: hands-on painting, facepainting, circus skills with Boggle Circus, market stalls, food, and for the first time, a live-action game of Dungeons & Dragons!
● Photography Exhibition – The Gap Camera Club, born from LEADER-funded training, presents a month-long exhibition at The Gap Pub, opening August 7.
● The Soul Cowboys bring high-energy R&B to the Gap Pub Yard on Saturday night, followed by Boss DJ spinning classic reggae and ska sounds.
● Grand Finale – Magical Moments Concert: Four beloved local groups—Askamore Singers, Ballyfad Choir, Gorey Ukes, and Kindred Folk—join forces in a joyful, family-friendly celebration at Ballythomas School on Sunday at 12.30pm.
Celebrating Culture Where It’s Needed Most Recognised by the Arts Council for creating vital arts infrastructure in a rural area, the Gap Arts Festival continues to bring culture to places it might otherwise not reach.
With generous support from the Arts Council, Wexford County Council Arts Department, Gorey-Kilmuckridge District, and the incredible generosity of local donors, the festival continues to enrich lives and strengthen community ties. Join in the fun at Ballythomas this August 7–10 for a truly unforgettable celebration of creativity, connection, and rural imagination.
The first of two Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann race meetings at Bettyville Park, Wexford, took place yesterday evening where New Ross jockey Sean Flanagan recorded a double to register the only local success.
Flanagan had only returned from Australia yesterday morning where he paid a flying visit to compete in the Melbourne Grand National Hurdle where he finished fourth on a horse called ‘Loft’.
Flanagan showed no signs of jet lag and was seen at his best in the saddle when steering home Ashdale Flyer (33/1) for Jessica Harrington in the beginners’ chase and followed that with a seven lengths victory on Bynx(7/2) for Tipperary trainer Martin Hassett in the handicap chase.
A satisfactory midweek crowd attended, and although the weather was marked by a chilly wind, it remained dry throughout the evening, which featured seven races.
Racing resumes at Bettyville Park tomorrow (Friday) evening with an eight-race card and maximum entries for six races. First race at 4.18pm. And it all ends after the 8.22pm INH Flat Race.
Courtown RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Frank was launched at 3.54pm on Tuesday after a concerned member of the public spotted two people that appeared to be in difficulty off Morriscastle beach and called 112/999 to alert the Coast Guard.
Conditions were ‘calm’ but the volunteer crew were stood down while on route, as the people had managed to safely return to shore on their own. The lifeboat returned to station at 4.34pm and was prepared for the next rescue.
Courtown RNLI Lifeboat Helm Robert Ierton said; “The people who alerted the Coast Guard did the right thing. Always call 112/999 as soon as possible and ask for the Coast Guard if you think somebody is in trouble. While we weren’t needed this time, the next time it could make all the difference.”
Later the same day as the Courtown RNLI Lifeboat crew were preparing for a training exercise, a member of the public spotted an inflatable with two people on board who appeared to be in difficulty off Courtown beach.
Courtown RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Frank, launched at 7.10pm and was quickly on scene where they escorted the two tourists and the inflatable to shore and returned to the harbour at 7.30pm.
Courtown RNLI Lifeboat helm Brian McEvoy said: “You have to be very careful with inflatables in offshore winds, you can be blown out to sea much more quickly than you think. Always call 112/999 and ask for the Coast Guard if you think somebody is in trouble. Getting to someone in difficulties quickly makes all the difference.”
ED SHEERAN performing at The Sky and The Ground, Wexford, today. (Pic; Love Wexford Town).
By Dan Walsh in Wexford town
Just when we all thought the appearance of the world famous tenor from Kiltealy, Anthony Kearns had won the hearts of Fleadh-goers on the Gig Rig on Wexford Quay on Sunday afternoon with his beautiful rendition of Boolavogue and we all thought it couldn’t get better… and today (Tuesday) along comes the brilliant Ed Sheeran!
OK, the appeal was for a much younger age group, but Ed Sheeran’s appearance at The Sky and The Ground this afternoon called for security as fans thronged South Main Street to get a glimpse of their hero!
WexfordLocal.com understands that Sheeran was recording some television material for TG4 and it was filmed in The Sky and The Ground, however, such was the local support that the 34 year old singer performed outside on the street and his fans loved every moment of it.
Ed Sheeran’s Wexford connections are as follows; When I worked for the now defunct Gorey Echo I reported the death of Anne Mary Sheeran (née Mulligan), Craanford, Gorey, who was grandmother to internationally renowned singer songwriter Ed Sheeran. She passed away peacefully at Castle Gardens Nursing Home, Enniscorthy, aged 98 years, in 2023.
Ed Sheeran wrote a chart-topping song about his grandmother called ‘Nancy Mulligan’.
A nurse from Gorey, Anne Mary Mulligan married Bill Sheeran from Co. Derry in 1951 in London where they raised a family. Bill was deep into the local boxing world, both as a fighter and later in life as a teacher and historian.
In 1983 Bill and Anne Sheeran retired to her childhood home in Gorey, where both immersed themselves into promotion of Gorey Boxing Club, and undoubtedly enjoyed watching their grandson Ed Sheeran storming the worldwide pop charts.
Anne and her family were also closely associated with Courtown Golf Club, Gorey Musical Society, Gorey Tennis Club, Gorey and District Lions Club and Gorey Cricket Club.
I had many discussions with Anne Sheeran and I know that Ed used to stay in her home while performing in Dublin, however, despite many requests for an exclusive interview, Anne politely told me it was not possible to break the secrecy of his holiday time while relaxing in Gorey, where he was often seen walking the streets and frequently in local hostelries.
Since then, Ed Sheeran has become a world class modern singer with millions of admirers.. a handful of them (numerically) where privileged to cheer him on in Wexford town today.
BRITTANY FERRIES docked at the modern layout at Rosslare Europort (Pic; Iarnród Éireann)
By Dan Walsh
Starting in October, Brittany Ferries will increase sailings between Rosslare Europort and Cherbourg from five to seven per week each way to provide greater capacity and frequency.
The move includes a new Tuesday evening departure at 21:00, with additional sailings to be phased in as part of a broader strengthening of the route.
Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail – Port Authority for Rosslare Europort – told WexfordLocal.com; “We are delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Brittany Ferries and welcome their expansion to a daily service in each direction on the Rosslare to Cherbourg route. Since Brexit, direct sailings on all routes between Rosslare Europort and the European continent have increased six-fold, and our priority has been to ensure we maintain that capacity and choice for industry and tourism alike.
“There has been intense interest in additional Rosslare to Cherbourg sailings since Stena Line’s decision to cease operations on the route from the end of September, and Brittany Ferries have demonstrated their can-do attitude by confirming this expansion with us so quickly, capitalising on the strength of the route for passenger and freight markets alike.”
It is the latest expansion on the route by Brittany Ferries, who started Rosslare to Cherbourg services in January 2021, growing from an initial weekly service to now a daily service during that time.
As well as offering choice to passenger and freight customers, the expanded Brittany Ferries service will also benefit from the transformation of the port through the largest ever investment in the history of Rosslare Europort.
New passenger vehicle and freight check-in facilities have been delivered, SmartPort technology has been deployed, and Rosslare Europort is well on track to continue its recent expansion and realise the goals outlined in the port Masterplan.
Works are nearing completion on construction of the new Terminal 7 infrastructure, the new permanent border control post being delivered at the port in partnership with the Office of Public Works. Project designs are being finalised for Rosslare Europort’s Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub with a view to a planning application being lodged with An Bord Pleanála in the coming months.
At the presentation of a 4,000 years old piece of Bog Oak to President Higgins and his visit to Wexford and opening Fleadh Cheoil 2025 last Sunday (left to right); Attracta Ní Bhradaigh, Uachtaráin Comhaltas Ceoiltoirí Éireann, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, President Higgins and the First Lady, Mrs Sabina Higgins. (Pic; John Ó Faoláin).
By Dan Walsh at the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 in Wexford town
President Michael D. Higgins was warmly received in Wexford on Sunday, where he launched Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and was honoured by the people of Co. Wexford as he prepares to retire after 14 years in Aras an Uachtaráin. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan speaking from the Gig Rig said; “The most important people we have here today are our President Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, who today are officiating at their last Fleadh as President and First Lady of our country.” “I would like to thank you, President Higgins, on behalf of all the people here today for gracing us with your presence, as you also did in 2024,” said Cllr Sullivan, who added; “On behalf of the people of Wexford, particularly and indeed all of Ireland, I would like to thank you for a lifetime of service to our country in the fields of academia, politics and latterly, President. “During a lifetime of representing people, you have always championed the cause of the vulnerable, the marginalised and the downtrodden and for this, we sincerely thank you, and I, on behalf of the people of Wexford and Ireland would like to wish you, President Higgins and your wife, Sabina, a long, happy and healthy retirement when your period of office concludes in a few weeks on November 11th.” Cllr Sullivan called for a rousing Wexford welcome for President and Mrs Sabina Higgins and the thousands packed along Wexford Quay responded with loud applause and prolonged cheering.
AUDIO ADDITION; CLLR JOE SULLIVAN speaking at the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 on Wexford Quay last Sunday.
During his speech President Higgins said; “As President of Ireland over the past 14 years it has given me such great pleasure to witness so many young people use our native language and, indeed, the number of young people who have spoken Irish to me.” President Higgins also gave some interesting figures. He said that last year’s (2024) event in Wexford was the largest event (Fleadh Cheoil) to date with up to 650,000 people visiting Wexford Town over the course of the eight-day festival. “This included 20,000 performers, 7,000 of whom were competitors,” said President Higgins, who added; “The reviews from the hardened Fleadh goers from all over the world, were outstanding.” It is important to be aware of the Shuttle Bus services running until August 10th. Yellow – Park & Ride: Carcur Road Blue – Park & Ride: Ardcavan Purple – Park & Ride: Racecourse / Barntown Brown – Park & Ride: Clonard Little Orange – Park & Ride: IDA / Drinagh North White – Campsite Shuttle There are extra bus services in and out of festival.Wexford town from Bus Éireann Expressway and Iarnród Éireann has put on 50 extra rail services for the duration of the Fleadh.
By Dan Walsh at the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 in Wexford
At Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025’s opening, Anthony Kearns’ performance of Boolavogue on the Gig Rig stood out among the many energetic speeches. The kid from Kiltealy who sang for President Barrack Obama has now performed in the presence of President Michael D. Higgins.
As WexfordLocal.com presented the news many requests lamented the absence of Kearns’ wonderful singing. Well, using my now unwanted radio production skills and always thoughtful of the demands from listeners and readers, I recorded the Anthony Kearns’ rendition of Boolavogue in best quality audio… here it is… listen and enjoy!
Kiltealy-born world class tenor ANTHONY KEARNS
Anthony Kearns from Kiltealy is an internationally acclaimed tenor, record producer and best known to his worldwide followers as a member of The Irish Tenors.
Kearns achieved success in 1993 after entering a national radio competition, “Ireland’s Search for a Tenor” on the Gay Byrne RTÉ Radio programme, a competition to celebrate the issuing of a new ten-pound note (called a “tenner”.) The only competitor with no formal training, Kearns won the competition at the finals, held on a city street in Dublin, singing The Impossible Dream and Danny Boy. One of his prizes was an appearance on Gay Byrne’s Late Late Show on RTÉ television. After winning the competition, he began training with the renowned Irish opera singer and vocal coach, Veronica Dunne, who had been a judge for the competition.
Kearns career took a leap in 1998 when Irish producer Bill Hughes and PBS joined forces to begin The Irish Tenors. Kearns, an original member of The Irish Tenors, collaborated with tenors Ronan Tynan, John McDermott, and Finbar Wright to net Gold, Platinum, and Double Platinum CD recognitions.
They continue to tour and produce CDs and are regarded as one of Ireland’s notable singing groups.
What is certain… Anthony Kearns’ professional delivery of Boolavogue to a local audience will always be remembered!
President Michael D. Higgins, his wife Sabina, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoireach Wexford County Council, Cllr Garry Laffan Mayor of Wexford and other dignatories on the Gig Rig at the official opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann today. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com).
By Dan Walsh at opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford town
For the second year in a row President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, formally inaugurated the Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 during a ceremony held on the Gig Rig stage on Wexford Quay this afternoon.
President Higgins, who was accompanied by his wife Sabina, said; “Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is such a significant and special event in Ireland’s cultural calendar, a time to celebrate our rich musical heritage and traditions, a time when we come together from all over the island and welcome so many visitors from all over the world who have come to celebrate with us our Irish music, song, dance and language, that vibrant tapestry of traditional Irish culture that has been woven over centuries.”
President Higgins praised the festival for its cultural importance and inclusive spirit.“May I say how delighted I am to be in the beautiful town of Wexford, as we gather to celebrate the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. This will be my final occasion opening the Fleadh Cheoil, mar Uachtarán na hÉireann, a festival that holds a special place in my heart and in the hearts of the Irish people, both at home and abroad,” he stated.
President Higgins continued; “The atmosphere here in Wexford is always so welcoming. The combination of Wexford’s expansive quay front and narrow medieval streets proved a huge hit last year. Wexford acquitted itself so well and Wexford County Council is to be commended again this year for all its preparation and for keping the streets of the town looking beautiful despite the huge crowds.”
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan welcomed the President and the world to Wexford, “The Fleadh is a powerful expression of who we are as a people — rooted in community, creativity, and a shared love of music and tradition. I commend Comhaltas, the Fleadh Executive Committee and the people of Wexford for bringing this celebration to life with such warmth and passion. This is a proud day for our county. To see Wexford host the Fleadh for the second time, and welcome President Higgins to open it is a moment that will live long in our memories.”
Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. Gary Laffan said; “The Fleadh is the result of extraordinary collaboration between Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Wexford County Council, volunteers, businesses, and cultural leaders. Wexford has risen to the occasion; we did it in 2024 and I have no doubt this week will leave a lasting legacy on our town and county.”
Labhras O ‘Murchú, Ard-Stiúrthóir, Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann said; “As we approach the 75th year of Comhaltas, it gives me great pleasure to see the road we have travelled, the great joy our traditions bring to so many people and how they connect us around the world. We have a great week ahead of us, celebrating the highlight of the Comhaltas calendar and creating memories that we will look back on with fondness in years to come.”
Attracta Ní Bhradaigh, Uachtarán, Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann said; “I am delighted to be back in Wexford for the second year, I have no doubt this will be another wonderful Fleadh. I want to say thank you to all the volunteers involved behind the scenes, it couldn’t happen without you. Whether you are here to compete or just to enjoy the entertainment make sure you enjoy the music, the friendships, and all the Fleadh and Wexford have to offer.”
Amongst the guests on the Gig Rig this afternoon were Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy TD, Minister for Housing James Browne TD, Deputies Malcolm Byrne, Brian Brennan and George Lawlor, Senator Cathal Byrne, elected members of Wexford County Council, Chief Superintendent Derek Hughes, Superintendent Jarlath Duffy, Inspector Graham Rowley, Martin Donovan CEO of the chief sponsor, Wexford Credit Union, Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and members of the Fleadh Executive Committee.
Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash, Fr. Billy Swan and Rector Norman McCausland shared an ecumenical reading. World renowned tenor Anthony Kearns won the hearts of the audience with his stunning rendoition of ‘Boolavogue’.
WexfordLocal.com 