It was a happy experience for me to be able to visit Manchester, the birthplace of my father, where he lived for 21 years before migrating to Ireland in late 1933. We had a book launch there at the end of the Manchester Irish Festival, and in St Kentigerns Irish Social Club, I delivered a presentation on his life and times before a fine group of enthusiastic Irish language students.
Club Manager Kevin Fitzpatrick had everything laid on to welcome us and Dr Liam Harte, a NUI Galway graduate and a Senior History Lecturer in the University of Manchester, had come along to launch the book.
I owe thanks also to Tony Hennigan of the Mayo Manchester Website for making the visit possible and who took the top pic.
A visit to the palatial Manchester Public Library was a highlight too. Knock to Manchester is now a fast and efficient flight.