Interviewed by Layla / photos by Malcolm McGettigan

Layla: How long have you lived in the area?
Declan: 60 years.

Layla: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Declan: I have fond memories of getting married and having my children and watching them grow up. I started up my own business with my brother, Crana Financial up the Main Street. There was also a road named after my Dad beside Lidl.

Layla: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Declan: Family walks, family movies and family time helped me through lockdown.

Layla: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Declan: I spend as much time with my family and friends as possible.

Layla: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Declan: I hope to feel like I have achieved everything in life and made it a successful life

Below are more photos from Declan’s shoot with photographer Malcolm McGettigan.

Declan McLaughlin