Book launch attracts capacity crowd

Subjects covered in the book include Mountjoy Fort, the Coalisland Canal, William Blacker and the Royal School Lands, early potteries, including the Coalisland china pottery, and Patrick Henry Hughes’ reminiscences of early 20th century Coalisland.

James Walshe chaired proceedings and said he hoped readers would really enjoy the book.

He called on co-author, Wilfred Dilworth, to give a brief synopsis of the book.

In the course of his address, Wilfred thanked all those who had assisted in bringing the project to fruition, and the printers InHouse Publications of Craigavon for their attention to detail in producing such an attractive book.

Roddy Hegarty enthusiastically launched the book, and recommended it to all present.

He is Director of the Cardinal Tomas O’Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive in Armagh, Chairman of the Federation of Ulster Local Studies, and has written many articles on local history, and lectures on local and family history research across the province.

Councillor Phelim Gildernew, the Mayor of Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, spoke in support of the launch.

Patrick Hughes Junior shared memories of his late father, Patrick, and his childhood in Coalisland.

Derrytresk man, Vinnie O’Hanlon, had the assembled company in stitches as he entertained them with a selection of well-chosen jokes and anecdotes.

Roddy Hegarty was presented with a small gift in appreciation of his help in launching the book.

Light refreshments were served and during the ensuing ‘buying frenzy’ many copies of the book changed hands.

In the run-up to Christmas, the new book may be purchased in local shops.