Tributes have been paid across Dunmanway and West Cork following the death of Harry (Sonny) Maybury, of Prospect Lawn.

Sonny will be remembered as a much-loved family man and entrepreneur whose kindness and community spirit shaped West Cork’s social and business life for decades.

Sonny began his career running one of the first chip vans in West Cork, which would have been operating at countless events such as West Cork’s agricultural shows. Well-known for starting the Red Ford Platform venue in the 1960s, he later expanded it into the Red Ford Drive In Ballroom.

The venue was officially opened on April 21st 1968, by the late singer Seán Ó Sé and brought some of the top performers in Irish music to the area.

During the showband era, the dad-of-five brought major acts such as the Daniel O Donnell and Brendan Shine to Dunmanway, creating unforgettable nights for many.

Through his businesses over the years, Sonny Maybury provided invaluable employment opportunities for local people, especially young people, at a time when work in rural communities was often limited.

His ability to combine business knowhow with genuine community spirit made him a respected and admired figure across West Cork. A founding member of the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Dunmanway Branch, he also promoted countless dances and music events at St Patrick’s Hall in Dunmanway town centre in the 1960s and later at The Parkway Hotel.

His daughter Sandra wrote a book compiling her parent’s memories and contributions in 2023, titled Spins.

In May 1976, Sonny Maybury and his wife Mary (née O’Donovan) purchased the Bostonian Bar, transforming it into the Parkway Hotel, still proudly run by their son Martin and his wife Sheila. This year marks the family’s 50th year in business.

Countless tributes have been paid remembering Sonny’s generosity and lifelong contribution to community life. ‘Sincere condolence to Mary and family on the very sad passing of Sonny. Sonny is widely remembered in Comhaltas over a long number of years for his welcome and generosity as well as his continued support to Irish music andculture, the Fleadh Cheoil and Comhaltas. Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís. Go raibh ceol binn na naingeal le clos aige. Assunta Uí Chathasaigh Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.’

Harry (Sonny) Maybury passed away peacefully on January 22nd in the care of Bantry General Hospital, surrounded by his family. He is deeply missed by his wife Mary, children Joe, Martin, Anthony, Karen, and Sandra, his eleven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, extended family, friends, and all who knew him.