A Galway man with two years’ rowing experience is to take on the Atlantic Ocean in a mammoth fundraising challenge for two charities.

Daragh MacLoughlin flew to the Canary Islands on Sunday as the countdown begins for a 4,800km solo row to Antigua in the Caribbean.

Departing on December 12, the race will see the Clarinbridge man spend Christmas, the New Year, and much of January at sea.

And while the Galway businessman has invested a huge effort into the World’s Toughest Row, he is deeply conscious of the potential hazards.

“Once you’re in the middle of the ocean, you can’t ring a helicopter to pick you up,” said the father-of-two.

“You’re calling a Mayday, and you might be boarding a 300-metre tanker going to Angola, which is where you’re going, too.

“I’m not making that call. I’m a guy who believes he can do this.”

Daragh, one of the few solo rowers taking part in the challenge, says his motivation was to push the boundaries of life – but also to help charities which he believes do not get enough State support.

On his fundraising page, he wants to raise up to €10,000 for Debra, the national charity supporting those living with ‘Butterfly Skin’ disease EB, and for Irish Dogs for the Disabled.

“Thankfully, in our family, we have no-one afflicted by a life-altering condition.

“We support charities which are small enough to retain that fighting passion but big enough to make a difference.

“The ones fighting tooth and nail for their people are the ones that really deserve support.”

The 42-year-old, who is self-financing his participation, took up rowing just two years ago, setting his sights on the World’s Toughest Row as the ultimate personal challenge.

Being self-employed at his website building and management company webhero.ie, has allowed him the time to prepare – and he will need every ounce of the mental and physical strength banked so far.

Powering through seas which can turn dangerously hostile, he will row for around 18 hours a day, consuming 7,000 calories daily, mostly freeze-dried food including seeds and nuts, and sea water fit for drinking thanks to an onboard desalinator.

His Dutch-made boat, a seven-metre carbon fibre vessel weighing 400kg when fully loaded, is waiting for him in La Gomera.

“When you’re out there and your body hurts, you’re sleep deprived, your cabin is like a sauna, you have to be very mentally strong to put yourself in a position to row,” he said.

“You will be looking for every excuse to get out of it.

“Some people, when they find out you’re doing it, can be a bit negative and unimpressed, because of the risks involved.”

That’s why the unwavering support of his wife Suzanne and the couple’s two daughters Maeve and Saoirse, has carried him through.

“Over the course of the training, it becomes very clear what you got yourself into.

“There’s no way I want to be in the mid-Atlantic wondering why I hadn’t done more.”

Daragh asks the public to make donations, to be split between both charities, at: idonate.ie/fundraiser/thejasper

Alejandra Livschitz of Debra said Daragh’s “incredibly brave” challenge will be appreciated by everyone who lives with EB in Ireland, and the families caring for them.

As the Christmas period approaches, An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are appealing to all road users to stay safe and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

To date this year, 166 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads.

Over the Christmas and New Year period, there is an increase in the use of the roads for recreational purposes and the risk of fatal or serious injury road traffic collisions is increased.

An Garda Síochána is conducting a dedicated road traffic enforcement operation throughout the Christmas period, which began at 7:00am this morning, Monday 1st December 2025 and continues until 7:00am on Monday 5th January 2026.

Every member of An Garda Síochána on duty will be out conducting road traffic enforcement activity.

We will have an increased presence on the roads to detect drink and drug drivers and also to deter key risk behaviours such as speeding, mobile phone use and non-wearing of seat belts.

According to a new survey from the Road Safety Authority, 12% of drivers admitted to having driven after consuming alcohol in the past 12 months.

The survey found that the most common scenario for a driver to be on the road while potentially over the legal alcohol limit is after drinking in a pub/restaurant, or at home, and then driving on a rural road, with a slightly higher likelihood of this occurring over a weekend.

A smaller percentage of drivers (4%) admit to having driven after using illicit drugs over the past 12 months.

To date, An Garda Síochána has detected nearly 8,000 drivers this year under the Influence of drugs or alcohol, and carried out over 93,000 checkpoints.

Assistant Commissioner Catharina Gunne, Roads Policing and Community Engagement said, “We are appealing to all those that will be taking to the roads over the Christmas period to slow down, take extra care and to give your driving your full attention and never, ever drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.”

“Members of An Garda Síochána will be out day and night across the country as part of our enforcement campaign. We will intercept drink and drug drivers. If convicted, you will lose your licence. Please don’t be one of them.”

“166 people have lost their lives on our roads so far this year. No Garda wants to be calling to your family’s door this Christmas.”

Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety, Seán Canney T.D., said, “I welcome An Garda Síochána’s plans over the busy Christmas period. Gardaí will be out in force testing drivers and can test for drink and drugs at the roadside.”

“My absolute priority as Minister for Road Safety is to see a reduction in the number of deaths on our roads. My message is simple: be safe this Christmas. Do not drive while intoxicated, do not speed, wear your seatbelt, and do not drive while distracted.”

“Do not put your life or the lives of others at risk. Don’t let friends or family drink and drive. If you plan to socialise – plan how you are to get home safely, and if you have been out the night before, think before you start the car.”

“Alcohol and drugs can remain in your system longer than you think. The consequences are real and tragically, can be fatal.”

Sam Waide, Chief Executive Officer, Road Safety Authority, said, “Christmas should be a time of joy, not loss. Our research has shown that over a third of drivers killed between 2016 and 2020 had a positive toxicology for alcohol.”

“These decisions leave empty seats at family tables, and communities devastated. I’m urging everyone: if you’re drinking or using drugs, don’t drive – ever.”

“Plan your journey, use alternative transport, and look out for one another. Together, we can prevent tragedy on our roads this Christmas.”

One Galway farmer has been honoured by Teagasc for his commitment to sustainability and soil health in agriculture.

Farming 125 hectares at Kilmurry, Tynagh, Loughrea, Conor O’Brien milks a herd of 144 high EBI Holstein cows and carries a dairy-beef enterprise in partnership with his father, Vincent, and mother, Mary.

Recently recognised as the ‘Improving Soil Health Category Winner’ of the Teagasc FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards, Conor’s journey into farming was greatly aided by the trust bestowed in him by his parents.

Elaborating on this, Conor explained, “My father gave me the opportunity at a youngish enough age to make my own decisions. He transferred one of the out blocks to me for my suckler enterprise, that was more a part-time hobby at the time.”

“It would have been easier for him to keep it himself, but he took the chance on me. If he and my mother didn’t give me the chance to learn and develop together with them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

From this beginning, Conor has seen the family’s farm grow, all the while focused on being technically efficient, profitable and environmentally sustainable.

Supplying Arrabawn Tipperary Co-op and guided by Signpost Programme Advisor Liam Quinn and local Teagasc advisor, Tom Murphy, cows on the farm are on track to produce 470kg of milk solids each year, carried at a stocking rate of 2.4LU/ha.

Grass utilisation reached 8.7 tonnes DM/ha in 2024, while herd genetics continue to improve, with an EBI of €251 and Dairy Beef Index (DBI) of €74, supporting profitability and a carbon footprint of 0.9 kg CO₂eq per kg FPCM.

Nutrient management is central. In 2024, 132 kg N/ha was applied, 66% as protected urea. All slurry is spread with low-emission slurry spreading (LESS), and nutrient management planning informs applications.

Soil fertility has improved as a result, 34% of soils are now optimum, up from 26%, while AgNav records a nitrogen surplus of 125kg N/ha.

Conor engages actively in sustainability programmes. As a Waters EIP participant, he has installed fencing, solar pumps, rainwater management and planted 135 metres of hedgerow.

As a Signpost Demonstration Farmer, he increased protected urea use to 66%, boosted clover to 37% of the milking platform, and grows 14 acres of red clover silage.

Future plans include a new slatted shed, solar panels, and continued genetic progress, highlighted by three bulls sold to AI stations with EBIs of €343 to €358.

Galway County Council is hosting a free public webinar at 1pm and 7pm on Thursday December 4, to explain how the Affordable Housing Purchase Scheme works.

It follows a Council survey earlier this year in which almost a third of respondents said they were not familiar with the scheme. The survey highlighted the need for clearer information about the support available to households seeking to buy a home.

The webinar will set out how the scheme works, who can apply, what documentation is required, how prices are set and how the Help to Buy Scheme run by Revenue can support first-time buyers.

The information session comes as Galway County Council continues to assess new sites for affordable housing in towns across the county.

Seventeen homes have been completed at Garraí na Gaoithe, Baile Chláir, with a further 16 due by the end of 2025 and 28 scheduled for Quarter 1, 2026.

Construction is advancing on 66 homes at Droim na Gaoithe, Baile Chláir, while 44 homes are planned for Raheen and Páirc na hAbhainn, Athenry.

Both projects are expected to be delivered between 2026 and early 2027. The Council is also exploring additional opportunities on its own lands and through Part V.

Surveys carried out in September and October indicate strong demand for affordable homes. Further targeted surveys are planned to assess demand across the county.

Registration for the webinar is available at www.tinyurl.com/galwaywebinar.

Funding of €634,922 has been approved for upgrades and maintenance of community and sports facilities across Galway.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has confirmed funding for 10 projects under the CLÁR programme in Galway.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, praised the community groups and organisations for their dedication to finding new ways to improve their local areas.

He added, “Their commitment is reflected in the thought and care put into their project ideas and in their efforts to raise the match funding needed to bring these projects to life.”

“I also wish to acknowledge the staff of the Council’s Rural, Community and Tourism Development department for working with the community groups in preparing the funding applications.”

Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally said CLÁR is a vitally important scheme for rural counties like Galway, where small-scale infrastructural projects can bring new life to local communities.

“This year’s funding provides a strong return for the county, he said, supporting community groups and sporting clubs right across Galway.”

“The Council is committed to working with all funding recipients to ensure their projects are delivered successfully and make a real difference for their communities.”

The largest award of €100,000 went to Portumna Chamber of Commerce and Galway County Council for a County Pilot initiative featuring facilities for persons with additional needs and a Changing Places Toilet.

Seven other projects each received €65,000, including upgrades to the community pitch and facilities at Lawrencetown Community Development, an outdoor gym and parking facilities at Killimordaly GAA Club, Astro and MUGA developments at Kiltartan National School and Glenamaddy.

An extended walkway and accessible parking will be built at St Thomas GAA, and accessibility enhancements and carpark works at Meelick Eyrecourt GAA and Skehana Community Development have also been funded.

Abbeyknockmoy Hurling Club received €54,900 for parking improvements and Pairc Spraoi Iorras Aithneach Cill Cháirain was awarded €25,022 for the development of a playground sensory area.

Nationally, the Government is investing €12.3 million to support the development of sports and outdoor facilities, including playgrounds, running tracks, astro turf pitches and spectator stands, as well as community buildings.

One man was arrested in connection with the seizure of cannabis valued at €115,000 in Co. Clare on Friday.

Gardaí from the Clare Divisional Drugs Unit have conducted an intelligence-led operation targeting the sale and supply of drugs in Co. Clare yesterday.

A property in the east of Clare was searched by Gardaí, during which 5kg of cannabis with an estimated value of €100,000 was found.

Following a further search of a second property in east Clare, a quantity of suspected cannabis with an estimated value of €15,00 was seized.

A man, aged in his 30s, was arrested and is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in Co. Clare.

The seized drugs will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland for analysis. Gardaí have said that investigations are ongoing.

COPE Galway supported more than 3,000 people experiencing homelessness, domestic abuse, isolation, and more last year.

COPE published its annual report for 2024 this week, highlighting an increased demand for services last year.

The charity supported a total of 3,184 people through a wide range of issues such as:

• 1,010 older people supported through community activities and social supports, including Meals4Health, a social enterprise of COPE Galway, who produced and delivered 98,954 meals.
• 837 women and children who are subjected to domestic abuse – supported with safe refuge, 1,519 outreach appointments, and other professional supports, such as 214 court accompaniments.
• 1,337 people who are experiencing homelessness – including 164 families with 351 children and 748 single adults – supported with specific emergency, community-based and family responses.

Commenting on the report, CEO Michael Smyth noted, “Many people in our community are experiencing significant challenges in their lives. Our teams are doing extraordinary work to keep people safe and help rebuild lives. Our staff are operating in increasingly difficult contexts, responding to complex needs.”

“At times in 2024, it felt like we were ‘running to stand still’, yet our staff stayed proactive and adaptable, finding creative ways to support people and ease the hopelessness and uncertainty too many faced in their lives.”

Child and youth-focused preventative supports

COPE Galway continued to strengthen child and youth focused preventative supports during 2024.

Solas Óg – the organisation’s therapeutic support service for children and young people affected by domestic abuse – strengthened the self-esteem, resilience and mental health of their clients through 618 private one-to-one sessions last year.

COPE Galway’s Helping Kids First Programme addressed the serious impact of homelessness on children and their parents by supporting the physical, emotional, social and educational development needs of children living in emergency accommodation, working with an average of 120 families at any one time.

Acknowledging the wider cost-of-living pressures, Mr Smyth continued, “We see the devastating impact of poverty and isolation every day. More than ever before, our teams are meeting essential needs, from providing food and clothing to laundry access, alongside crisis support.”

“In 2024, we supported 2,227 people most at risk of food poverty. When it comes to a parent having to choose between buying their child a warm winter coat or a week’s groceries, we do everything we can to make sure the family’s needs are met.”

Transformative supports

COPE Galway also focused on small but transformative supports that counter isolation and trauma.

Mr Smyth noted that the report highlights simple but creative ways the organisation tailored support to clients’ individual and evolving needs.

Throughout the year, they worked closely with clients to design small initiatives that made a meaningful difference, including:

• Creating sensory-friendly spaces within the domestic abuse service.
• Supporting clients living in emergency and temporary accommodations to enhance their gardens, building pride and enjoyment for residents.
• Developing calm spaces where clients could take a break from crisis and feel grounded.
• Early interventions for older people.

COPE Galway also supported older people through a range of early-stage interventions focused on physical activity, social connection, and developing new skills. In 2024:

284 older people took part in community activities such as lunch clubs, coffee mornings, technology workshops, and enjoyed Zumba and other classes at The Bungalow in Mervue.

Sonas Social Centre continued to welcome people who depend on daily drop-ins for connection and support.

Senior Support Service carried out 216 home-befriending visits, with trained volunteers offering companionship and helping older people remain living independently at home.

The report also reveals exceptional volunteer engagement in 2024, with 164 new volunteers recruited, making up a total of 253 volunteers in over 30 roles.

Reflecting on the organisation’s work during a challenging year, Mr Smyth said, “I want to thank our almost 200 dedicated professionals, who meet and connect with each person without judgement, tailoring supports to their unique circumstances.” I also want to pay tribute to the courage and resilience of the people we worked with in 2024, some of whose stories are generously shared in this report.”

“For 60 years, COPE Galway has held on to the hope of the people who turn to us, walking alongside them and supporting them at their most difficult moments,” he said.

“Going forward, we remain determined to meet the challenges ahead, grounded in the support and strengths of our staff, volunteers, supporters and community, who remain at the heart of our ability to respond.”

“As we continue shaping our services around lived experience and aspirations, we are ready for the road ahead. We invite you to learn more in our 2024 Annual Report.”

One of the country’s most established newspapers, The Tuam Herald, is to change ownership.

The Directors of The Herald Printing & Publishing Co. have announced the proposed sale of the newspaper title and related assets to Celtic Media Group.

The proposed sale of The Tuam Herald, founded in 1837, is contingent on approval from the competition authorities and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport.

Colleagues working in the title were briefed by the Directors, David Burke and Mary Burke earlier today on the decision to transfer ownership to Celtic Media Group (CMG).

David Burke, Managing Director of The Tuam Herald said that CMG, with six established brands and over 400,000 social media followers, has the scale and digital expertise to secure and grow the title.

CMG have been business service partners to The Tuam Herald for over a decade, providing graphic design, digital and management consultancy.

All 12 staff will transfer to CMG, once the proposed sale is approved. The Dublin Road, Tuam, office premises are not part of the transaction and the sale price has not been disclosed. Publishing continues as normal.

Mr Burke said he and his fellow director “wished to exit the business, having gone far beyond normal retirement age”.

“Our family has had a very proud stewardship of The Tuam Herald, with three generations of the Burke family responsible for managing the title for almost a century and I was very proud to have taken on the baton from my father, Jarlath,” he said.

“The time has now come to hand over to a company which can best position the title for the challenges and opportunities to come.”

Frank Mulrennan, CEO of Celtic Media Group, said: “We have been business partners of The Tuam Herald for many years and know and respect the quality of the brand and its readership loyalty in Galway.

“We look forward to working with editor, Siobhán Holliman, and the team, once this transaction is completed, early in the New Year.”

Celtic Media Group (CMNL Limited) was formed in 2012 from a management buy-out, led by its CEO, Frank Mulrennan.

The group employs 72 colleagues and publishes such local titles as Meath Chronicle, The Anglo Celt, Westmeath Examiner, Westmeath Independent, Offaly Independent and The Connaught Telegraph.

CMG operates a graphic design and digital hub in Mullingar providing publishing services to its own titles and a range of peer local titles and commercial outlets, including The Tuam Herald.

Galway City Council has adopted a €160 million budget for the coming year at a meeting this week.

On Monday, the elected members voted to accept a budget of €159,251,136, with a focus on ‘back to basics’ delivery of essential services.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard commented, “I’d like to acknowledge the Elected Members and Senior Management in Galway City Council for their collaboration on the 2026 budget and the exchange and dialogue that has been on-going over the past number of months.”

“It was a difficult process, but the decision of [the] Council positions us now to continue targeted delivery of services in 2026 for the people of Galway City”.

Measures for generating revenue for 2026 in the budget include:

ARV: As part of the adoption of Budget 2026, Elected Members approved an adjustment in the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) to 0.2369. This adjustment will generate an additional €1.3m in revenue 2026.

The council has said that, even with this adjustment, Galway is still below ARV rates in the cities of Dublin, Limerick, Cork and Waterford.

Parking: Members approved a marginal increase in parking charges to bring them closer to the charges applied by commercial operators in the city.

The increased rates are €2.50 per hour, with long term car parks at Dyke Road and Cathedral Car Parks charging a daily rate of €10. Monthly parking will remain at €100 per month.

Potential New Funding Sources: Members directed the Executive to explore a number of new potential income sources to fund service delivery including:

• Levies on derelict sites, which includes a mix of residential, commercial and institutional buildings. While no funds have been collected to date for levies issued in 2025, funds will be recoupable when derelict properties are sold in future.
• Rates on new commercial properties – with rates becoming chargeable by Galway City Council after properties have undergone valuation by Táilte Éireann.
• Port of Galway Dividend – subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2014, a dividend from Galway Harbour Company could generate €100,000 in income.
• Commercial Services – generate additional revenue of €150,000 from the commercial services operated by the Council.

Work areas cut in 2026 include the Joint City and County Economic Strategy, climate action retrofits in community buildings, restoration works in castles, Leisureland and a payment incentive scheme for rate payers.

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive, Galway City Council said, “The adoption of the 2026 Budget Book positions Galway City Council to continue provision of essential core public services in the year ahead, as part of a wider programme of investment over the five year term of council.”

“We continue to engage with [the] national government to secure funding allocations that reflect Galway City’s scale, growth and cost pressures. As the only city in the western region and a major driver of economic growth, Galway contributes significantly to the national economy.”

“Nearly 30% of all workers in the Western Region live within the Galway city catchment, an increase of 3% since the last Census. Appropriate national allocations, alongside locally raised funds, are essential to deliver for our 84,000 residents, 30,000 students, businesses that choose Galway, and over two million annual visitors.”

“I, as Chief Executive, together with the Directors, CPG (Corporate Policy Group) and the Elected Members, will review work areas to see where expenditure can be paused to avoid a deficit, until the new income sources proposed by the Elected Members become available.”

“In terms of driving forward the strategic priorities for Galway City, we will adjust timelines based on the resources available and look forward to continuing to build national and local resources to invest in our city”.

Key delivery areas for Budget 2026 include:

• Housing and Urban Development: Delivering new housing, and maintaining existing housing stock; addressing dereliction; local area plans for Murrough and Castlegar; and enhancing supports for people experiencing homelessness
• Public services and community infrastructure: increased street cleaning and maintenance to improve customer experience and support the drive for Galway City to build on the Gold Medal in the 2025 National Tidy Towns Awards with an overall win; maintaining community facilities; grant schemes; footpath repairs; market area refurbishment; delivering Green Spaces Strategy; and appointment of a Disability Access Officer.
• Sports and recreation – Continue progression of Masterplans for sports and recreation; pitch and park maintenance; higher sports grants; and city-wide local improvement schemes.
• Economic and Financial Initiatives: small expansion of Shopfront Enhancement scheme; investing in a new Retail Plan for Galway; and investment in festivals and events.
• Workforce and organisation redevelopment: Increased digitisation of services and processes

University of Galway has recognised seven primary and secondary schools for their outstanding commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for all students.

The awards ceremony was held at the University’s Institute for Lifecourse and Society, celebrating the official designation of the seven schools as Champion Schools of Sanctuary.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a “Learn, Action, Share” framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice and build understanding about forced migration.

These schools demonstrated actively embedding inclusion across the school community.

The seven designated Champion Schools of Sanctuary are:

• Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway
• Galway Educate Together Secondary School
• Ballyhaunis Community School, Co. Mayo
• Brusna National School, Co. Roscommon
• Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Limerick
• Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo
• Ballinlough National School, Co. Roscommon

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre at University of Galway, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership.

The event underscores the University’s commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said, “At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging – not only across our campus, but within the wider education system.”

“The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued.”

“By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.”

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre, said, “At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education.”

“The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit – it’s about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. We’re proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isn’t just encouraged, it’s lived every day.”

Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said, “Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student.”

“I’m proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.”

Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, said, “In a current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these seven schools is timely.”

“These schools have made a commitment to ensuring their school shines as a beacon of inclusion, welcome and equality.”

Dr. Veronica Crosbie, Chairperson of Places of Sanctuary Ireland, said, “This awards ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic integration initiatives happening across the Irish educational landscape, often quietly under the radar of local and national media.”

The awards ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Access Centre at University of Galway, and Galway City Partnership.

Galway’s Black Box Theatre will be a haven of festive cheer this week as the venue comes alive for the annual Local Food and Craft Gift Fair.

Beginning this Thursday, November 27, the festive fair will run throughout the weekend, closing on Tuesday evening, December 2.

Up to 60 stallholders and exhibitors will showcase their products across the six days, and there’ll be plenty of entertainment to ensure there’s something for all the family.

On Thursday, Galway Bay FM’s Ronan Lardner will kick off Christmas with a live broadcast from the Black Box from 12noon to 3pm. There’ll be music from the Out of Towners from 4.30pm until 6pm, with the Fair running until 7pm.

On Friday, the band will be back with live music from 3.30pm until 6.30pm, and Santa will also be spreading festive cheer from 4pm to 7pm.

On Saturday and Sunday, the Fair will open at 10am, with the Out of Towners playing from 12noon to 6pm and the ever-popular Bernardo the Magician wowing the crowd from 12noon to 4pm.

Monday and Tuesday will also see the event open at 10am, with Santa returning from 12noon to 5pm on Monday, and the TLC Choir performing on Tuesday between 12noon and 1pm.

Organised annually by Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Galway, the Fair will showcase the very best of the county’s artisan producers and the event is expected to attract up to 15,000 shoppers across the six days.

Head of Enterprise at LEO Galway, Caroline McDonagh, said shoppers can look forward to getting their hands on some stunning Christmas gifts and treats.

“We have put together a really fantastic line-up of entertainment and exhibitors this year, and we’re delighted that Santa Claus is taking time out of his busy schedule to come and meet the children on both Friday and Monday.”

“There really will be something to suit all tastes and budgets at the Black Box and, for anyone still looking for inspiration for their Christmas shopping list, rest assured, the Local Food and Craft Fair has got you covered.”

Shoppers can expect to find an array of gift ideas from local artists, designers, jewellers, skincare trailblazers, and craftspeople, as well as mouth-watering locally-made food and drinks from some of Galway’s best loved artisan producers. There will also be several food vendors outside the Black Box throughout the six days.

As an added bonus this year, 14 free bus routes will operate from towns all over Galway, taking groups to the Christmas Fair at the Black Box Theatre. Shoppers are advised to book their seats to avoid disappointment.

Bookings can be made by calling LEO on 091 509 090 or online at www.localenterprise.ie/Galway/.