It was with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Austin Garvin – a founding member of Claremorris Community Radio.

The following is contribution from John Whittle on Austin’s long-standing and valuable involvement in the station.

“Austin was a dear friend and colleague. I first got to know him when he worked for Eircom and then as a coach of underage football in the town. Later, he was a founding member of Claremorris Community Radio.

“Austin had a great knowledge of and interest in all sports and subsequently joined with me in presenting a preview of sports activities both locally and nationally. This programme lasted for 30 minutes and went out live and unrehearsed every Saturday morning. He felt that Gaelic games weren’t getting the coverage that they deserved here in Mayo and ‘roped in’ Billy Fitzpatrick to do the Sunday night Sports Talk programme. Then began the weekly programme that has been running for ten years.

“Austin’s knowledge of the game, his work as a reporter for the Mayo News and his networking with other media people allowed him to provide valuable insights into the happenings in the game of football. He formed a great team with Billy, who had a different perspective on the sport and made my task as presenter very easy.

“Many a report he gave while travelling home from Mayo away games. He was always kind, fair and honest in his comments on players, coaches and officials and would always defend players. One of Austin’s many quotes was, ‘You have to say it as you see it’.

“He took a great interest in our radio station and was always interested in promoting the radio and its activities. He had many friends in the world of Gaelic football and they were only too glad to participate with him in outside broadcasts. My deepest sympathy goes to his wife Mary, his sons Paul and Adrian, and his daughter Deirdre. Also to his brothers Tom, Michael and Phillip.

“Austin, we are missing you.”

Heartfelt condolences to Austin’s family and friends from all at Claremorris Community Radio.