Sir, – Further to Frank McNally’s Irishman’s Diary (February 22nd), I can vouch for the fact that the term “topcoat” was not confined to Kilkenny and Waterford.
In this area of west Wicklow, the word “overcoat” was unheard of.
When the fingertip-to-hip-length garment known as the “car coat” appeared on the scene, in the Sixties, it was known as “a short topcoat”. – Yours, etc,
MATTIE LENNON,
READ MORE
Blessington,
Co Wicklow.
Sir, – The overcoat or top coat and the brolly are still common weatherproof apparel but I can’t remember the last time I saw anyone wearing a pair of galoshes, which were rubber overshoes to keep shoes dry. – Yours, etc,
NOEL SHANAGHY,
Faithlegg,
Co Waterford.
