A new sculpture “The Sentinel” has been located on the pilgrim path towards Croagh Patrick in Westport on Friday 16th October and now overlooks the town.

The sculpture, by Ronan Halpin, an Achill base sculptor, is six metre high and made of bronze and stainless steel. It was commissioned by Westport Town Council in 2013 when the town won the Irish Times Best Place to Live in Ireland award. It depicts a spirit horse and its rider and symbolises the enduring spirit of the town.

It was launched by The US Ambassador to Ireland Mr Kevin O’Malley, in the presence of Mr Michael Ring, Minister for State, Ms Kathy Sheridan for The Irish Times and Mr Peter Hynes, Chef Executive of Mayo County Council. The statue was blessed by Fr Charlie McDonnell and Rev Val Rodger.