Immrama festival to honour Lismore's Dervla Murphy in her own understated way

The travel writing festival was established in 2003, partly due to Dervla Murphy's connection with Lismore ,and regularly features internationally-recognised personalities

When Lismore Town Council proposed a civic reception for Dervla Murphy in 2003, she declined the honour, claiming 'an allergy to such occasions'. Picture: Ethel Crowley

Guest speakers at next month's Immrama festival of travel writing in Lismore will be asked to deliver a brief monologue in commemoration of Dervla Murphy prior to their own presentations.

Festival committee chairman Ed Lynch said: "Dervla personified the very spirit of Immrama and despite the short timescale, it is imperative we celebrate her influence at this sad time. Perhaps a storytelling gesture is most appropriate."