The County Measure uncovers the vibrant arts, history, heritage, and diverse communities of Co Monaghan. Join writer and broadcaster Vincent Woods as he moves across Monaghan.

From the rich ecosystem of Moylan Lough, the community spirit of Carrickmacross, to Castleblayney's captivating country music, Vincent takes a measure of all that 'the drumlin county' has to offer.

"Two celebrated McCabe writers, Eugene and Patrick, capture something of the unique world of Monaghan: the vivid language, the frontier spirit of resilience and determination, the lively curiosity and humour, the edgy Ulster-ness of it all. And then there's the power of the GAA, the legacy of Patrick Kavanagh – and the beat of country and western music. To adapt a line from one of Big Tom's favourite songs: In Monaghan, you don't come out the same way you came in," says Vincent Woods.

The County Measure features new and original music by rising star Jamie Duffy. The pianist from Glaslough has over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify and his single "Solace" has over 60 million plays.

The programme also includes a special piece of writing by Evelyn Conlon. Evelyn's most recent book is "Reading Rites: Books, writing and other things that matter" (2023).

The County Measure is a landmark RTÉ Radio 1 series that explores the identity and communities of Ireland's 32 counties.

Presenter: Vincent Woods

Producer: Regan Hutchins

Researcher: Simon Ó Gallchobhair