Laois grandfather keeps tradition alive with help of grandchildren
For over 40 years the Rosenallis man has put up a May Bush in the Slieve Bloom Mountains
A Laois grandfather is ensuring that old Irish traditions live on, with the help of his granddaughter.
Rosenallis grandfather Dan Lynch has been putting up a May Bush in the Ridge of Capard for over 40 years, and has passed this tradition on to his nine year old granddaughter Síomha.
Pictured: Nine year old Síomha with this year's May Bush in the Ridge of Capard
His daughter Kathleen Nelson told the Leinster Express / Laois Live of her father's passion behind this tradition.
“Daddy has been putting up a May Bush for well over 40 years. Based at the Ridge of Capard, many visitors add ribbons and messages to the May Bush every year," she said.
Kathleen said Dan’s two granddaughters Lexi aged 15, and Síomha aged 9, help him with the May Bush every year.
Pictured: Dan Lynch and granddaughter Síomha pictured with the May Bush in 2024
The May Bush is traditionally decorated every year with painted egg shells and ribbons in a bid to keep the Pisheogs (fairies) away.
The old rural custom which was practised throughout Ireland was believed to improve the harvest.