The Roskilmanor Wren Boys in north Leitrim will bring the age-old Irish tradition of the mummers to the border villages of the northwest this Christmas.
Founded in 1982, the group got its name from the three areas that the initial group members came from, namely Rossinver, Kiltyclougher and Manorhamiltion.
Founding member Seamus Ferguson said it is great to keep the old tradition alive.
He said they have "lost a lot of traditions around the years" and "it's one thing" they’re trying to keep going in the area.
Pat Fox, who has been involved with the group since it was founded, said they include local Leitrim dances such as the clap dance, the brush dance, a set dance as well as lilting and singing in their performance.
Ben and Susan McHugh, owners of McHugh’s Pub in Glenfarne, said the wren boys have been coming to their pub for years.
Mr McHugh said the wren boys "do a good show every time they come and it’s all for charity," while Ms McHugh added that she "enjoys it all and loves the music and the dancing".
Patrick Kennedy from Glenfarne said they have "great old craic with them".
"We give them a few pounds and away they go," he said.
The wren boys raised more than €160,000 for local charities and causes since the 1980s and some members have performed across Europe and the US.
Since its foundation, the group has welcomed members from adjoining counties.
Catherine Gribbin, originally from France, has been a member of the Roskilmanor Wren Boys for over 20 years.
She said she has "always loved Irish music" and feels it is a "great way to embrace Irish culture".
Barbara Byrne from Manorhamilton, who joined the group in 1982, said "it’s great for women to be involved in things like this".
"We’ve a mighty bunch here and we’re all great friends and have been for a long time," she added.
The wren boys will start their Christmas performances on St Stephen's night in north Leitrim and around surrounding counties.
Some of the groups that have benefitted include local mental health services, the North West Hospice, the Irish Kidney Association, North West Parents and Friends Association, Minna Missions, Mutomo Mission, Kilcar Day Care Centre, Aware, San Paulo Mission, the Alzheimer's Association and St Vincent de Paul.
