Memoir Launched in Support of Wicklow County Cancer Groups

Family, friends, local representatives and community supporters gathered in Rathnew for the launch of 'The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native' a memoir written by David Harrington.

A new memoir by a Wicklow native has been launched with all proceeds set to support cancer services across the county.

*The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native*, written by David Harrington, was officially launched last Friday evening at Clermont House.  The venue was a fitting choice for an author who spent much of his career as Senior Executive Chemist at Wicklow County Council.  The event brought together family, friends, community representatives and supporters, with the evening facilitated by Eoin Naughton of the Clermont Screen Hub.

The book reflects on Harrington’s life and career over seven decades. Originally from Kerry but long settled in Wicklow, he spent much of his professional life as Senior Executive Chemist with Wicklow County Council.

Harrington recounts his early years growing up in the Coolacork and Ballinteskin areas, his education at Holy Rosary School and De La Salle College in Wicklow, and his working life both in Ireland and abroad.  The book also reflects on the development of Irish industry and the growing role of environmental protection legislation influenced by the EU.

The launch was addressed by Graham Richmond, Cathaoirleach of the Wicklow Municipal District, who delivered remarks on behalf of Simon Harris, paying tribute to Harrington’s contribution to environmental protection during his career.

Dave Harrington Junior, Programme Director and presenter with East Coast FM, was also speaking at the event. Dave highlighted the charitable aim behind the publication.

All proceeds from the book will go to seven County Wicklow cancer support organisations:

• Arklow Cancer Support
• Wicklow Cancer Support
• West Wicklow Cancer Support
• Roundwood Cancer Support
• Rathdrum Cancer Support
• Purple House Cancer Support Centre
• Greystones Cancer Support.

The initiative is linked to East Coast FM’s 15th Annual Wicklow Wide Coffee Morning, which raises funds for local cancer services and the Wicklow Hospice.

'The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native' will be available to purchase at Wicklow Wide Coffee Morning venues across the county on April 24th, all listed on our event page.  Funds raised will go directly towards supporting cancer services and families affected by cancer in Wicklow.

Stay tuned to East Coast FM to find out more.