Pollagh

Pollagh also spelled Pullough (Irish: Pollach) is a village in County Offaly, Ireland, located in the midlands of Ireland. The name Pollagh comes from the Irish Poll ach, literally meaning expansive hole, but practically meaning "broad expanse of shallow water". It is a rural village on the Grand Canal and lies between Ferbane and Tullamore. Much of the surrounding area is bogland, and is used to produce fossil fuels such as peat turf. The River Brosna flows close to the village. The Grand Canal was used for transporting peat and bricks produced in the area. Pollagh benefited from the canal in earlier years when it brought investment and employment from Bord na Móna, and it is now an important part of the tourist attraction. Pollagh is known for its church, particularly its bog oak altar and stained glass windows, designed by the Harry Clarke Studios and the yearly Pig Race which happens at the Pollagh Pig Race stadium which in the past has drawn crowds of over 7 people including Mary and her daughter Mary (famed for moving to Dublin).