Memorable return of Castlebar International Four Days Walks after Covid interruption

The Castlebar International Four Days' Walks has made a very successful return after three years.

The event attracted participants from over 15 nations as walkers enjoyed getting back on the roads and hills of west Mayo after the festival had been cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic.

The weather was reasonably good throughout the four days as the 53rd year of the event was marked in memorable style.

First established in 1967, the event only ever missed one year prior to 2020 and 2021.

That was in 2007 because of an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the UK and parts of Ireland.

Stated festival director Elaine Devereaux: “It was wonderful to be back and everybody enjoyed it.

"The loyalty of our walkers from many parts of the world is remarkable and we are indebted to them for their support.”

Walkers were entertained by Castlebar Concert Band outside the Ivy Tower Hotel on New Antrim Street on Saturday evening.

The president of Castlebar Chamber of Commerce, Bernard Hughes, presented the awards on Sunday ahead of the annual walkers' buffet and traditional blister ball.