This year I was volunteering for the Fleadh Cheoil but as always the camera comes with me. I didn’t want to take the same old shots as I did last year, although I did take some which you can see here.

I was talking to the lovely and very talented photographer Ciara Drennan before the Fleadh started and she came up with a ‘Faces of the Fleadh’ idea which I thought was great. I talked to some people I met during the week-long event and asked them their thoughts about the Fleadh. I didn’t get to talk to as many people as I’d have like to, I’m really quite shy when I’m out of my comfort zone and I don’t usually take people pics so I had to push myself a bit. You can see the whole album here and I’ll post some on this blog.

“I’m a regular visitor to Sligo and to the showgrounds and I love the place. The architecture is wonderful especially the Ulster Bank and City Hall. I also love the old shop fronts like Mullaney Brothers and Hargadons. I’m amazed at the wealth of talented musicians in the Sligo including The Wranglers and Old Hannah, Steve Wickham and No Crows and the amazing Moxie. In my opinion Sligo has been the best venue for the Fleadh.”

John Creedon, broadcaster and presenter

“I’m happy to be taking part this year and lending a hand. The great nightlife doesn’t hurt either!”

Lucy Robus – volunteer (and my daughter)

“I haven’t missed a Fleadh since 1963. I even went to Boston for one. I’m here to play music, I play the melodeon and harmonica.”

Mick Healy, Roscommon.

“I’m here interviewing people for a TV programme. It’s great fun and lovely to meet everyone.”

Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin, TV presenter

“I grew up playing the fiddle at various Fleadhs around the country. I’m happy to be playing in Sligo this year for Fleadh TV.”

Ryan Sheridan, musician