World's largest Deadpool collection on show in Cloghan

THE world's largest collection of Deadpool memorabilia was officially opened in Cloghan Service Station on Saturday afternoon.

Cloghan's Gareth Peter Pahliney broke the Guinness World Record for the feat earlier this year, with a collection of over 2,000 pieces.

He and his wife Nikki, who are originally from Pretoria in South Africa, warmly welcomed a big gathering of families and lovers of the Marvel character to the opening of “Gaz' Comic Cave” on Saturday.

Gareth said it was “phenomenal” to see such a great turnout. He said the Comic Cave is something unique which you would not associate with rural Ireland but he's been “blown away” by how much positive response he has got to it.

The Cave features Deadpool memorabilia from the comics and the movies, and while it includes a huge amount of Deadpool stuff there's also a good number of figurines of other Marvel characters.

Gareth said the Cave is open from 10am-3pm, Wednesday to Sunday, until the end of August and all ticket sales will go to Esker House Women's Refuge or Dogs Trust.

Gareth told me that many of the figurines were sourced in the US, often at comic book conventions.

“I've been collecting these pieces for seventeen years,” he said, “and I was delighted in February this year when the Guinness Book of Records said they would be putting me in their next publication.

“I see Deadpool as my spirit animal, because he loves engaging in banter and he doesn't take anything too seriously. Ryan Reynolds does a great impression of him and it's our big dream that we will get Ryan to visit us here.”

He said that YouTuber Seán McLoughlin (otherwise known as Jacksepticeye) used to live in Cloghan and Banagher and is good friends with Ryan Reynolds. It's hoped that this connection might lead to Ryan's arm being gently twisted to pay a quick visit to Cloghan!

Gareth and his family have been living in Cloghan for three years.

“The town has welcomed us with open arms,” he said, “and we are deeply involved with the community, cross-promoting businesses.

"I cannot tell you how amazing the town has been to our family. I think part of this whole thing of giving back would be I'd love to see this help tourism in Offaly if possible.

"There's so much untapped potential around the Midlands. I'd love to see a Route 66 of our own and people come through from all over the world and drive through and maybe come see the Deadpool collection.”

He warmly thanked the Grogans and staff of Cloghan Service Station for being so welcoming, helpful and supportive.