North Mayo to get international spotlight on BBC’s ‘Between the Covers’

On Saturday, November 16, actor and comedian Stephen Mangan will bring his deep North Mayo connection to audiences worldwide when he appears on BBC Two’s,  ‘Between the Covers’. 

Hosted by Sara Cox, the episode will see the London-born son of Erris natives select ‘A Goat’s Song’, a novel set in Belmullet by acclaimed Irish author Dermot Healy, as his top book pick. 

This novel holds a special resonance for Mr Mangan, capturing the landscapes, voices, and wit of the place he considers his second home.

In his heartfelt comments about ‘A Goat’s Song’, Mangan shared how the book struck a deeply personal chord. 

“It's set in a really remote part of Ireland that my family comes from, and it's one of those places that never gets mentioned or talked about by anyone ever,” he said. 

Mr Mangan’s recognition of the book as a ‘stone-cold masterpiece’ showcases his love for Belmullet and the larger North Mayo region. He further praised Healy’s work, describing its ‘melancholy, and wit’ as characteristics he associates with the people and spirit of Mayo itself.

Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, highlights the importance of this moment for the region. 

“Having someone like Stephen Mangan, who has such a genuine connection to North Mayo, speak about Belmullet on a global platform is invaluable,” she said. 

“It gives people a glimpse of the rugged beauty, rich culture, and community spirit that make this part of Ireland so special. Publicity like this allows us to showcase North Mayo to new audiences, encouraging people from around the world to explore our hidden gems,” she added.

Mangan’s affection for North Mayo extends beyond literature. 

In a heartfelt interview on ‘The Hard Shoulder’ with Kieran Cuddihy, Mangan shared fond memories of his summers spent in Belmullet, describing the warmth and rich culture of the area. 

“I spent every summer in Mayo, and both my mum and dad were from there, so we've always had an awful lot of family back there,” he recalled. 

“It’s completely part of my life, and I’m bringing my children back every year because I want them to have the joy that I had.” He also revealed his favourite beach, Elly Bay, laughing as he said, “Apologies to everyone else who owns a beach up there who I haven't mentioned.”

‘A Goat’s Song’, first published in 1994, is considered Healy’s finest work. It’s a powerful narrative about love, loss, and the yearning for connection, with a profound portrayal of Irish identity and history. Set in the period leading up to the Good Friday Agreement, it explores the divides and shared humanity between Northern and Southern Ireland and captures the male protagonist’s heartache as his life unravels.

For North Mayo, Stephen Mangan’s feature is more than just publicity, but a celebration of the region’s enduring legacy and vibrant present. 

Tune in to ‘Between the Covers’ on Saturday, November 16 at 2.10pm on BBC Two.