A pall of sadness descended over County Clare and beyond on the 9th of January as news filtered through that well-known and much-loved Moyriesk, Quin veterinary surgeon, Paddy Hassett, had passed to his eternal reward in his 84th year following a brief illness.

Recognised as one of the most eminent members of his profession in Ireland, Patrick J Hassett, M.V.B. M.R.C.V.S. was a familiar figure in his large veterinary practice for over 50 years.

Paddy was essentially a man of the people and the land, and was never happier than when pottering around his farm when time allowed.

He enjoyed a lifelong interest in all things equine, and was a licensed racehorse trainer for over five decades. Not averse to having a bet, Paddy certainly knew the time of day in that respect and, together with his late brother, John, gleefully relieved bookmakers’ of their hard-earned cash on many occasions over the years.

Regular trips to the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals were a feature, as were visits to all the major Irish festivals. He was very proud to have supplied his sons, Paddy, Darragh and Garrett, with winners in the saddle, both on the racecourse and between the flags.

He was equally pleased to see his daughters, Siobhan, Dearbhla, Ciara and Shiofra, excel in their chosen sporting careers, and never flinched in his unwavering support for them.

His late wife, Eileen, was the love of his life and the pair made an excellent team, particularly so when they tragically lost their son, Donnacha, in a 1981 horse-riding accident. Together they built a loving home, where the family unit thrived both academically and as human beings.

Paddy had a lifelong association with Clare Hunt. A talented horseman, he was fearless in the saddle and hunted for over 70 years, making friends everywhere he went, with his genial demeanour and innate good nature a magnet for all.

He was the Vet on duty at all Clare point-to-points for time and memorial, a task he performed with the minimum of fuss.

Perhaps, closest to his heart, however, was the iconic Spancilhill Fair.

Some 30 years ago when this world-famous event was in decline, Paddy spearheaded a committee that not only revived its fortunes, but brought “The Fair” to a different level.
The fact that this historic mid-summer showpiece continues to thrive is due in no small way to his charisma, vision and dedication to its promotion in his role as PRO right up to his sad passing.

A huge family man, Paddy was known for his generosity and good humour, allied to a razor-sharp intellect. He was a man of principle – fairness and integrity were utmost on his mind and his word was his bond. Something he will be proud to know has passed on in spades to the next generation of the Hassett clan.
Despite running a very busy practice, Paddy enjoyed life to the full and was a fantastic raconteur. It was always a joy to be in his company, and he could be relied upon to pen and recite a few verses of poetry to mark a special occasion.
The word “legend” is too often bandied about nowadays, but that moniker aptly sums up the late Paddy Hassett.
Safe to say, his likes will never be seen again.
The mould has definitely been broken!

“It being on the 23rd of June
the day before the fair,
when Ireland’s son and daughters
In crowds assembled there,
the young, the old, the brave and the bold
came there to sport and thrill,
what a curious combination
at the Fair of Spancilhill.”

May the sod of Clooney graveyard rest lightly on his gentle soul.

Spancilhill Fair Association