The Irish Centre is received the biggest publicity boost in its history when the Ant and Dec ancestry programme was aired on ITV on Sunday 10th (9pm – 10.30pm). It was filmed way back in May 2017 so at least we looked a bit younger.
As the yearend looms we inevitably look back. It’s been a tough trading period, not only for us, but also for clubs, pubs, and restaurant retailers everywhere. Thankfully with the hard work of our staff we have our heads above the watermark and are planning for the future.
Shortly the committee will announce a number of consultative meetings to discuss positive proposals for the redevelopment of the ground floor and other improvements in the premises.
I am keenly aware of our duty to leave the centre in a sound state to survive as it has with a brief hiatus and an odd move here in Newcastle since 1871.
Going back in time again I was honoured a few weeks ago to play with my band for Ted Shea’s funeral at St Roberts in Fenham. What a remarkable man hid behind his quiet and courteous demeanour. Aged 103, he was born in beautiful Glengarriff (County Cork – just) and lost his arm when parachuted into the battle of Arnhem in 1944. One time requested was Kevin Barry. Why? It was sung by the lads in the plane as they prepared to drop. Most were Irish: very few survived. An immense honour also to play for John Limer RIP in St Annes, Harlow Green. Known to so many people for so many of his attributes, John’s legacy to us was the dancing: ceilithe and sets which were his enduring passion.
By the way, please keep an eye open for the ‘Irish World’ in your local supermarket or newsagents. We have a new partnership going with them.
Back with more news soon. Tony Corcoran