Astonishing scenes at My Boy book signing in Galway

There were astonishing scenes in Eason's in Galway on Saturday, at the book signing by Philomena Lynott, of her No.1 Bestselling autobiography, My Boy.

Hundreds of hopeful fans queued for hours at the store, as Philomena signed for over six hours – with total sales of the book on the day outstripping even her appearance in Eason's in Dublin following the Late Late Show in March.

Among those who attended were Presidential candidate Michael D.Higgins and RTÉ2fm's Paddy McKenna. Dublin alternative rockers Keywest played a special in-store version of 'The Boys Are Back In Town' to entertain the fans. The crowds spilled out onto and along Shop Street, creating a carnival atmosphere, as the sun shone down on the city.

"It was a fantastic occasion," Philomena told Hot Press. "I am so thrilled to be able to meet the fans and to talk to them. I've never known a day like it. It was wonderful."

Philomena appears at The Rock Bar, as part Féile an Phobail in Belfast on Thursday August 4, in Scribes at the Rock – an afternoon event which also features playright Noel McGee and acclaimed novelist, Kevin Barry.