Communities across Counties Mayo and Galway are greatly saddened by the tragic drowning incident that took place at Old Head beach, Louisburgh on a recent Sunday that claimed the life of a woman identified as Cathy Hughes, who was in her 60s.
Ms Hughes, known for her proficiency in art, resided in the Salthill area of Galway city, though her roots are in Westport where she was part of the industrious Hughes business lineage. Being a frequent visitor to Louisburgh and Westport, she unfortunately drowned at Old Head despite the desperate rescue attempts.
Her body has been moved to Mayo University Hospital, with an autopsy scheduled to happen soon.
Cathy Hughes hailed from a large family of 13 and spent her childhood in Westport during the 1960s. Her mother, Maura Kelly, shared kinship with actress Grace Kelly, through John Kelly – Grace’s grandfather who left Newport for the US towards the end of the 1800s.
Specializing in Irish antiquities, Maura Kelly also initiated the Irish craft and knitwear enterprise, Carraig Donn.