Mick recalls days gone by with collection of short stories

By Tamara O’Connell

an 82-year-old local man has written a collection of short stories based on true events called ‘the Big Fella’s Memories’.

originally from England, Mick Keane moved to Co Louth 53 years ago and currently lives near Haggardstown.

“i’m from Crystal Palace but i met my wife, nancy, at the Ballymac after being in the country for only three hours,” said Mick.

“She has passed away now but when i met her, she was living with her Mum at St Ronan’s terrace. She was originally from Barrack Street.”

Mick worked as a carpenter and joiner for a number of years before moving on to work in the banking sector.

“i worked as the aiB porter for four and a half years and spent two and half years at Bank of ireland and also worked for a short time at Ulster Bank,” he said.

“they were great times. i got to know a lot of people in the town. i really enjoyed the work. i also ended up teaching some carpentry skills to kids in Coxes Demesne.

Pupils from Scoil Mhuire na nGael, St. Malachy’s Girls School and Realt Na Mara who all performed excellently at the Credit Union Development Association National Final.

“there was a project house there and the kids made wheelbarrows and garden furniture. it was a very good experience.”

Mick has since turned his hand to writing and has written over 20 short stories all based on true events.

“one of the stories is set in 1947 when my brother and i found an unexploded bomb in the garden,” he said.

ardee Concert Band to play free concert

ArDee Concert Band are delighted to be hosting and playing alongside the Texas Woman’s University Concert Band on Saturday the 18th March at 8pm in the Bohemian Centre in Ardee. All are welcome to attend this Free concert.