Inishowen musicians record Phil Coulter’s song for Swilly Lifeboat fundraiser

The song ‘Shores of the Swilly’ has been recorded by Inishowen Musicians to raise funds for the Buncrana-based Lough Swilly RNLI.

Phil Coulter tragically lost his own sister Cyd and brother Brian in separate incidents in Lough Swilly.

Those behind the new project said the ‘Lough Suile’ or ‘Lake of Shadows’ has been the scene of many significant historical moments in Irish history, and of many joyful moments, but sadly is also the scene of many heartbreaking tragedies.

In the early stages of lockdown, singer Maria Fitzpatrick approached pianist Louise Doherty with the idea of recording one of her father’s favourite songs ‘Shores of the Swilly’ as a fundraiser for the Lough Swilly RNLI. The project quickly developed when they were joined by percussionist Gary Raymond, who recorded the song in his Gleneely studio, followed by Mick McGrath, who contributed the haunting whistle playing to the track.

A local Buncrana man and friend of the group, John Cutliffe, (now living in Myanmar in SE Asia) stepped in and offered to master the track. Inish Media came on board and created a stunning video for the track, while Tank and Skinny’s restaurant provided socially distanced rehearsal space.

Local tour company Reel Irish Music Tours contributed to the CD production, while local artist Gillian Burke volunteered and did the CD design work. Offers came thick and fast for transport, photographs, archived videos... and the project came to life.

RNLI is a charity which saves lives at sea, and is totally reliant on donations from the public for its operations. Lough Swilly RNLI based at Ned’s Point and Buncrana Pier opened in 1988, spearheaded by Pat and Kate Heaney, who worked tirelessly with many others to help prevent further loss of life in the water.

To date, Lough Swilly RNLI have launched 675 times, rescued 775 people and saved 57 lives.

A spokesperson for the musicians said: “We are privileged to have these brave men and women, who selflessly risk their lives in all weather and atrocious conditions, to save the lives of others.

“The song itself is a haunting lament that will strike a chord with all who have loved and lost. Brilliant in its simplicity, and deeply personal to all involved, it holds many moments of happy childhood and tragic loss.

“Please support your local lifeboat, and follow the secure www.gofundme.com/shoresoftheswilly link on social media channels. Every single donation, large or small, will go directly to Lough Swilly RNLI, and help them continue their invaluable work on our seas.”

Praise from Phil Coulter

Phil Coulter in a video message to the musicians behind the project said; “The song ‘Shores of the Swily’ is very personal to me and very special for all sorts of good reasons, and so I was delighted when I heard from John McCarter that Louise and Maria had recorded the song.

“I just want to thank them and I hope this song goes right to the top of the charts and that you can give money to the lifeboat on the Swilly, which is also very close to my heart.

“Well done and thank you and all the very best to yourselves, my friends in Buncrana, the Swilly and indeed the RNLI.”