'It's common knowledge that not everyone knows,' says filmmaker on new Tipperary documentary

An Irish filmmaker has recently released a short documentary online about 'The Battle of Thurles" in 1174.

Speaking with the filmmaker George Fitzgerald, he explains why he decided to research the battle for his next project.

"The Battle of Thurles is considered a significant engagement during the Norman invasion of Ireland and presented a major opportunity for the Irish to push back the invaders. It forced a retreat of the invaders and halted their advance into Ireland," explains George.

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"It's one of the times where we actually beat the English. It's common knowledge that not everyone knows," he says.

"Statistics tell us today that over 600,000 people visit Tipperary each year, grossing in the region of 52 million a year in revenue from tourism. It emerged victorious and overcame all it's challenges, all it's battles and all it's wars. It became one of Ireland's most attractive places to visit," he reflects looking at the success of the county today.

George, who is originally from Ballymun in Dublin, has also written a number of books as well as other documentaries.

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George and Sandra his wife were members of the hit band The D11 Runners in the 90s who would have played in the North and South of Tipperary in the day.

The band was co-founded by George Fitzgerald and his twin brother Joseph. The group, who performed nationally with singles such as "I Surrender" and "Yeah! Yeah!".

The has been rumoured in Irish media as one of the inspirations for Roddy Doyle's fictional band in The Commitments. 

George's documentary can be viewed on his channel here.