VIDEO: Castlebar's Main Street to host big match live event

MAIN Street in Castlebar is being lined up as the venue for the live public screening of Mayo's All-Ireland SFC final against Dublin at Croke Park on Sunday.

The plan appeared to be dead in the water at the weekend when it was announced by the Spencer Street Traders and Residents Association that it was not going ahead with the event.

Paul Rodgers told The Connaught Telegraph that difficulties were experienced in regard to stewarding, security, insurance and funding. 

He explained: “Logistics and time are against us with our proposal to screen the All-Ireland final on a big screen at the Mall, so we're calling it off.”

Mayo County Council had given the association permission to use the Mall for the project.

The weekend announcement prompted Love Castlebar, along with Castlebar events coordinator Mick Baynes, to contact five local firms for support.

Elverys Sports, Staunton's Pharmacy, McGrath Waste, Shaws Commercials and Multi-Colour Corporation (formerly Cashin Print) agreed to come on board 'to make the event happen'.

Negotiations subsequently took place with officials of Mayo County Council, Castlebar Municipal District and An Garda Síochána about staging it on Main Street.

Stated Helen O'Hara of Love Castlebar: “While final arrangements have yet to be sorted out, this is  about the community coming together to back a great idea.

“It would not have been possible to revive it without the backing of the five businesses as well as Mick Baynes.”

 

The original proposal was to hold the event on the Mall but Main Street is deemed more suitable for supporters standing for a long period of time. While the event is alcohol free, fans can drop into nearby public houses at half-time.