End of an era as Carrigart store changes hands

THE retirement of a well known Carrigart shopkeeper has been described as the “end of an era”.
Mickey Joe’s Country Store has been a permanent fixture in the townland of Umlagh for generations.
Something of a ‘one-stop shop’, Mickey Joe’s character and variety has long made it a favourite among visitors to the Downings area.
Its stock of hardware, which ranges from the practical to the downright unusual, has always made it particularly popular with the many people who have caravans in the area.
Mickey Joe’s Country Store made national headlines in 2017 when it sold a lottery ticket which landed one lucky punter €6 million.
But following decades behind the counter, the store’s proprietor, Mickey Joe Gallagher, has announced he is handing over the keys to The Kernan Group.
Confirming the takeover, a spokesperson for Kernan’s said, “We are delighted to announce that we have a new store in Carrigart.
“A new chapter has begun for Mickey Joe Gallagher’s famous Country Store as we officially take the reins and Mickey Joe heads into a very well deserved retirement after many years of service to the local community.
“We would like to thank the people of Carrigart for welcoming us into your community and we look forward to meeting you all and serving you over the weeks, months and years to come.
“We would also like to wish Mickey Joe a very long and healthy retirement.”
The handover sparked dozens of well wishes on Facebook with contributors saying that the shop’s founder would be fondly remembered.
“Congratulations to Mickey Joe. Hopefully he has a long and happy retirement. Thanks for your many years of service, always a pleasure going into the store,” wrote Cathal McDaid.
A second post said, ““End of an era, all the best for the future Mickey Joe and good luck to the new owners,” while a third Facebook user added simply, “What is it they say…If Mickey Joe didn’t stock it then you didn’t need it.”