BRITISH comedian Jason Manford has discovered that his great-grandfather was a volunteer during the 1916 Rising.
Following an interview with Ray Darcy on RTÉ Radio One this week, the 34-year-old shared the news with his followers on social media.
His great-grandfather Thomas Ryan’s signature was presented to him on a document, entitled Easter Week GPO Garrison, provided by the Military Archives at Cathal Brugha Barracks.
Mr Ryan was listed as being a member of the O’Connell Street Garrison in the GPO during the Rising.
He is stated as having been a volunteer, not attached to any specific unit, suggesting that he moved between battalions.
Whilst the document is not dated, it is confirmed as being compiled by veterans of the Rising.
Manford posted a picture of a copy of the document on Facebook, writing: "Did an interview in Dublin today on RTÉ with Ray D'Arcy where I found some interesting information and the actual signature of my great-grandfather Thomas Ryan."
See More: 1916 Rising, Featured, Jason Manford, RTE
