Devastating Recess shop photos show fire destroyed building inside as 100 year old possessions 'unsalvageable'
The owners of Joyce’s Craft Shop and its subsequent pub and post office have said their “beautiful shop” had suffered an “immense blow”
These are the first photos which show the destruction and devastation caused by the fire in Recess on Thursday.
The owners of Joyce’s Craft Shop and its subsequent pub and post office have said their “beautiful shop” had suffered an “immense blow”.
Sharing a photo of what was left of the inside of the building, they said that despite the best efforts from fire crews, the shop was “unsalvageable”.
They said: “All our friends and family rallied around us supporting us at this our time of greatest need. As I am sure most who read this understand this is more than just a building or a business. This is part of our home.”
They continued: “Our everyday existence is interwoven within its walls. History and objects from our family. Many of which are well over 100 years old. I am proud that our daughters are the fifth generation to work here.
“Of course this is not only us, it is my neighbours in the grocery, pub and yard. As well as the countless number of people who have worked alongside the Joyce family since the 1890s.”
They finished by saying: “It is also the hugely talented Irish creatives whose work we are so proud to showcase. Thank you to all the people who have sent us messages of support, the outpouring is overwhelming.
“Buildings can be rebuilt, memories are held safe in our minds and my beautiful family and neighbours are safe and holding each other safely. The sun rises.”
The pub owners in Recess have also warned the public about a fake GoFundMe page doing the rounds which has not been set up by them.
While having to come to terms with the devastation of the fire, the owners of each place have also had to deal with the fake rumours about the fundraiser which was set up independently to their businesses.
Joyce’s Bar issued the warning on their Facebook page last night. They said: “We have been notified of a GoFundMe page for Joyce’s. This is not us, it is fake please do not interact with any message you receive about this.”
And just hours before this, they shared the heartbreaking update that no Galway person wanted to hear.
“It is with great sadness that we write this message. We would just like to firstly thank the brave firefighters from Clifden, Carraroe, Ballinrobe and Galway who arrived in the early hours of the morning to help put out a fire that had engulfed the building.
“Despite their best efforts all of our premises have been destroyed. Thankfully there are no injuries to report. Our hearts go out to Mark Joyce and his family on the loss of their business premises also.
“We also want to thank the staff and local community who have been helping out throughout the day. They have been a massive support today and always are.”
They added: “It has been such a massive and devastating blow and we are all still in shock. It will take some time to come to terms with the loss. Any Post Office customers you may now collect your payments in An Post in Clifden for the foreseeable future. Thanks everyone.”
Phone World in Clifden shared a photo showing the fire at the shop under control.
He said: “Heartbroken to see the devastating fire at Joyce’s this morning.
“As I drove by, the sight was truly shocking. My heart goes out to Michelle, the family, and everyone whose lives and hard work are connected to Joyce’s.
“As a fellow small business owner, I understand that behind every business are countless early mornings, late nights, sacrifices, and dreams. We wake up each day with hope, determined to build something meaningful for our families and our community.”
He added: “Seeing years of dedication affected in a single moment is incredibly painful. A heartfelt thank you to the firefighters for their courage, professionalism, and tireless efforts in responding to this tragic fire.
“Wishing Michelle, the entire Joyce’s family, and all the employees strength, hope, and resilience during this difficult time. May you find the support to rebuild and come back even stronger. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”