BBC Radio 3 to showcase Seamus Heaney’s Christmas poems live from Bellaghy

BBC presenter John Toal, of Radio Ulster and BBC Radio 3, will broadcast live from Seamus Heaney HomePlace in the village of Bellaghy this weekend.

The festive focused broadcast will take place on Sunday, December 1 with Seamus Heaney’s Christmas poems being the centre of attention. The broadcast will also draw attention to Christmas musical traditions in Northern Ireland. You can hear a selection of local seasonal music from 4.30pm to 6pm.

John will also be joined by Belfast born pianist Michael McHale.

John’s special programme is part of a whole day of live broadcasts from across the UK on Radio 3 on Sunday.
Officially starting the countdown to Xmas, the day of ‘Carols Across the Country’ features presenters in various locations around the country including Sarah Walker in Barnsley, Tom McKinney in Lancashire, and ending with Hannah French with the Morriston Orpheus Choir in Swansea Bay. All will be discussing local carolling traditions, and introducing live performances by local choirs, soloists and music ensembles.

Presenter John Toal spoke to the County Derry Post about what the audience can expect from the festive broadcast and also reflected on the work of the great Seamus Heaney.

ABOVE: BBC Ulster and Radio 3 Presenter John Toal : Credit BBC

“It’s great that we are getting the chance to broadcast from Bellaghy, the homeplace of the great man himself. It is like the spirit of Seamus Heaney is still in the Homeplace, there is a feeling of ease, gentleness and relaxation,” he said.

“There are plenty of his poems and literacy on show but it isn’t intimidating. It is a beautiful spot and a great space to do the special Christmas broadcast from. I found his Christmas cards fascinating. Every year he sent personalised poems to his loved ones. He chose the words so perfectly and had them beautifully illustrated with the help of his daughter Catherine. It’s amazing to have that time capsule of a great poet.

“I was one of those kids that learnt all the Seamus Heaney poems and recited them at the Fèis. I remember meeting him one time for an interview at the Ulster Museum. I spent so much time memorising and learning a book of his poems. He was such a captivating person, he had that twinkle in his eyes. He was so friendly, approachable and welcoming. I remember he forgot a piece of the poem while he was explaining it to me and it was like time stood still and I thought if you never remember anything in your life again remember this piece of information. I finally came to me and I finished his sentence and he said ‘That’s exactly it you have done your homework.’ I was so pleased with myself. I was like I can die happy. I still keep discovering wee bits and pieces of his poems to this day and it is always a joy to find out something new from them.”

John concluded: “We have an array of Christmas music to showcase. All to reflect how music can provide relaxation at this time of year and the place that we are in. I think it will be a lovely evening for listeners.”