Yes, Spancil Hill is a very real place and the "Parish Church of Clooney" is only about a mile from Spancil Hill.

Robbie McMahon did a workshop in Ennis some weeks back on the song "Spancil Hill". The highlight was Robbie singing the original and full version of the song accompanied by a dozen or more of his students, all of whom were word and note perfect to Robbies version.

Unfortunately I did not witness this myself because I would have treasured the memory of the scene in years to come. However, for anyone interested in the full "Robbie" version of Spancil Hill I shall ask him to provide a copy which I will post on this thread in the future, unless someone beats me to it. Also, Robbie has a tape of his songs which I don't have yet. I'll inquire about copies for anyone interested. He has written many brilliant songs and he sings the best "Bard of Armagh" I have ever heard.

Dave,
I'm new to the singing scene and so I don't know you...yet... but I shall be delighted to pass your regards onto Frank Harte.

Best Regards Frank McGrath