The County Measure

This week on The County Measure writer and broadcaster Vincent Woods gets to know the coastline, people and nature of Co. Wexford.

Colm Tóibín is a novelist from Enniscorthy. Here he recalls a bridge over the River Slaney and the landscape and history of Wexford. Colm's most recent book "Long Island" (2024) is a sequel to "Brooklyn". His previous titles include "The Master", "The Testament of Mary", & "The Blackwater Lightship". For more see www.colmtoibin.com

"Annagh Lane" by Zack Boland is inspired by the street where he grew up. Zack Boland is a composer, arranger, and musician hailing from Co. Wexford. A graduate of MTU Cork School of Music, his music is deeply influenced by his roots, with much of his work reflecting the landscapes and memories of his upbringing.

Vincent Woods explores Co. Derry. He attends SuperCup NI, and meets new communities and cultures in Derry City. The County Measure also features Soak performing a new spoken word piece about growing up in Derry.

"Teenage dream's so hard to beat" by Soak. Here, Soak recalls memories of growing up in Derry City and the importance of home. Bridie Monds-Watson AKA Soak has released 3 albums: "If I Never Know You Like This Again" (2022), "Grim Town" (2019) & "Before We Forgot How to Dream" (2015). For more see https://www.soaksoaksoak.com/

"Keepsake" by poet Mícheál McCann recounts a journey between Derry and Belfast. Here he reflects on the nature of home while travelling with Marcel, his new cat. Mícheál most recent collection is "Devotion" (2024). He previously published the pamphlets "Safe Home" (2020) and "Keeper" (2022).

Vincent Woods explores Co. Donegal. He visits the Arranmore RNLI, dry stone wall builders in Ballyshannon and a wonderful singer in Gaoth Dobhair.

'Ceol crotaigh, uaill cois cladaigh' by Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair, a storyteller and writer from West Donegal. Here she explores the decline in numbers of the curlew population. Eithne's latest book is 'Caithréim agus Tóir' (2024). Her previous titles include 'Súil' (2018), 'Múscail, a Ghiorria' (2020), & 'An Craiceann agus a Luach' (2021).

Vincent Woods explores County Mayo. He travels to Inishturk Island, a community garden in Ballyhaunis and pets alpacas in Ballycastle.

Writer Mike McCormack recalls his childhood while growing up in Mayo. Here he describes a long car journey across the county. Mike is the author of several books including 'This Plague of Souls' (2023), 'Solar Bones' (2016), 'Forensic Songs' (2012), & 'Notes from a Coma' (2005).