Photo Gallery: The Rossies in London are back! 

After a ten-year break, the Roscommon Association in London recently held its 58th dinner and dance at the Clayton Hotel, Chiswick. The Horohoe family, Marian, Ciaran and Caitlin alongside family and friends facilitated the event, which was attended by 230+ guests.

Entertainment was provided by the Bible Code Sundays, Scoil Rince Ryan Lavelle and Contraband.

Members of the Roscommon football team narrowly defeated in the All-Ireland final in 1980 against Kerry were at the event including Gerry Connellan, Aidan Dooley, Michael Finneran, Seamus Hayden, Harry Keegan, Sean Kilbride, Marty McDermott, and Micky Menton.

Roscommon GAA was represented by Pat Compton and Tom Murray. Pat congratulated guests on the magnificent response to fundraising events supporting Roscommon GAA over the last 5+ years. He gave details of the forthcoming “Win a Home in Kildare” fundraiser.

Also at the event were John Doyle, Chairman London GAA and Michael Maher, manager of the London senior football team.

Colm Farrell gave a brief overview of the charity – Stamp out Suicide and acknowledged the financial support that the charity had received.

Organisers are very grateful for the magnificent support received from the sponsors, by donating items for the event, and bringing guests to the event.

During the evening there were several fundraising activities including the mobile phone game, a raffle and an auction. All the proceeds will be divided between the Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice, Cure Parkinsons and the Critical Care Centre at King’s College Hospital, London.

The Roscommon Association in London was founded in 1955 by Mary Kenny from the parish of Moore in South Roscommon and Tommie Gilleran from Kilteevan. They were assisted by several friends.

At the event Eddie Naughton and Anne McLoone were highly commended for their long-standing support of the Association over the last 40+ years. Under their leadership the Association promoted many events including the annual dinner and dance as well as supporting many charitable organisations including the Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice. They, along with the support of the CIAC (Council of Irish Counties), have supported many families in London who have encountered challenges and bereavements.

Glenna Mannion, London Rose of Tralee representative and a native of Tulsk presented awards to Anne & Eddie. Next year, the Association will celebrate its 70th anniversary and it promises to be very exciting.

In April, London will play Roscommon in the Connacht senior football championship at McGovern Park, Ruislip. London GAA has invited the Roscommon U-16 football team to play the London minor team in the curtain raiser. This will assist the London team in their preparations for participation in the All-Ireland series in May. Planning has commenced for the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band to lead the teams in the pre-match parade.

The 70th anniversary dinner & dance will take place on Saturday, October 25th. You can keep in contact with the Association by Facebook: Roscommon Association, London or Email: roscommonassoclondon@gmail.com.