AS I rang Seosamh Murphy, the owner of the famed Castle Arms in Durrow, he was on his way to Glenview Stud with a mare to be covered by Shirocco. Well, it’s that kind of hotel. It’s not your ultra posh modern concrete palace but a weary traveller is assured of a warm welcome and a decent meal without breaking the bank. Invariably, a sporting visitor will meet a like-minded spirit to discuss the day’s racing or hunting.

I have happy memories of evenings spent in the Castle Arms after a good day with the Laois Foxhounds. What sets it apart from many similar establishments is that invariably, the chief barman would be dressed in full hunting regalia having quickly disposed of his hunt coat on a redundant beer tap.