Freedom of Waterford: Doonican and Bowyer honoured

TWO of Waterford’s most renowned sons, the singers Val Doonican and Brendan Bowyer, were awarded the freedom of the city in a joint ceremony at the city hall last evening.

Doonican (84) originally hails from Passage Road, while Bowyer (72) grew up in Bailey’s New Street, both in the city. The men, who both came from established musical families in the city, have enjoyed success in Ireland and internationally for decades.

Doonican and Bowyer were the 32nd and 33rd respective recipients of the privilege since Isaac Butt was honoured in 1877.

Members of both families were present for the ceremony in the council chamber at city hall and for dinner in the large room afterwards.

In his career, Doonican recorded more than 50 albums and he garnered fans from all corners of the world for his BBC show, which featured his famous rocking chair and many international stars.

Doonican achieved chart success many times with both singles and albums, and he appeared on Top of the Pops performing hits such as Walk Tall, The Special Years, Elusive and What Would I Be?

Brendan Bowyer’s career started in the late 1950s, when he became the charismatic lead singer of the Royal Showband in the city.

The band became the first Irish artists to top the Irish singles chart with Kiss me Quick, while the band’s place in the history books was sealed in 1965 with The Hucklebuck.

This song went platinum with regard to sales.

Bowyer spent many years entertaining in Las Vegas. He is said to have caught the eye of Elvis Presley, who attended a show and approved of the Waterford man’s treatment of some of his songs.

The resolution to admit and receive Doonican on to the Freedom of Waterford City, Honoris Causa, was formally proposed by Waterford City Councillor Davy Daniels and seconded by Cllr Jack Walsh. Bowyer’s admission was proposed by Cllr Séamus Ryan and seconded by Cllr Jim D’Arcy. Mr Roche said that the men’s “talents and creativity have allowed them span the years”.