Ciaran’s Peculier [sic] Blog

I hope the Bank of Ireland will forgive me for calling the charming event on the evening of  November 15th a birthday party. But that’s how it appeared to me – a very enjoyable get-together of people. Myself and Rosie had a great time. We both had lots to eat and drink – perfect. There was even a lovely tasty birthday cake. Well Done to the Bank’s wonderful staff.  I met a number of old friends like Basil Clarke and his son, as well as Dessie Cullen and Gerry Somers. The Corlough Cuckoo was there too as was the affable County Manager Mr Jack Keyes. Music was provided by Martin O’Donohoe and some of his talented family members. Rosie thought Martin’s daughter Savannah had a beautiful name, leading me to ask Martin whether he felt left out namewise? After all Martin’s a very boring name isn’t it. I suggested Marrakesh O’Donohoe instead. 

 I also thought that Lorraine Teevan’s photograph of yours truly published by the Echo was spot on. I’m not someone who cares much about having my ugly mug reproduced in papers, but this shot was the business. I looked positively rock n’ roll. You often see people at events with postures like someone’s stuck a pitchfork up their backs, as well as having that rabbit-in-the-headlights look on their faces, giving the overall demeanour of people awaiting a vasectomy with only local anaesthetic.  I looked a bit like a rock star, albeit a fading rock star, but definitely younger than my forty-two years. But I was having fun, and fun was the name of the game on the night in question.

I was really really touched to be asked.