Portmarnock Uncovered

TWO Northside women have written a book which records events that took place in their area over the last 10 years, while also charting their friendship during that time.

Catherine McMahon and Betty Ennis are well known in the Portmarnock area as they wrote a monthly article which appeared in the local

‘Progress’ newsletter for nine years.

The articles, which feature in their new book

‘Portmarnock Uncovered’, are based on what the pair got up to, who they met, environmental and planning issues and really anything that was going on in Portmarnock at the time.

They have managed to capture magical moments with photos in every chapter that are in themselves a history of Portmarnock and the people who visit.

The photos will bring a smile to your face and help recall some nostalgic memories of people and events that are already part of history.

Various events the ladies organised like the sluice walks, solstice celebrations, Christmas swims and World Wetlands Day are all captured, along with a magnificent swan called Samson who became a celebrity in the area after the ladies took him under their wing (excuse the pun!) and regularly wrote about his antics.

As you progress through the chapters it becomes evident that the ladies always look on the bright side of life and never dwell for long on the negatives. An example of this is when the ladies put a calendar together in 2012 after Catherine was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Compiled in a short space of time, it featured a group of all year round swimmers called the

‘Red Hot Mommas’. It gave them a good laugh at a time when their lives were turned upside down.

Some of the photos from the calendar appear in the book and the friendship of the Mommas and the positivity is very evident.

Catherine McMahon told Northside People:

“We felt it was important to document day-to-day life and events which would otherwise to lost to us and we reckon the book will really be appreciated in years to come.

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‘Portmarnock Uncovered’ will appeal to anyone who has an interest in, or has ever visited the area.

It would also make an ideal Christmas gift, especially for someone with Portmanrock connections who is living abroad.

The book costs

?¬15, and is not-for-profit. It is available in a number of local shops including Smyth’s Butchers, Heaven Scent Florists, Texaco, Spar, McDonagh’s Newsagents, Jus De Vin, and Manor Books in Malahide.You can also order a copy by phoning 087-9562862.

Meanwhile, Catherine and Betty are looking forward to holding their annual Winter Solstice celebration event, which will take place on Portmarnock beach on December 21.