Meath Businessman Who Founded Tayto Crisps Has Died

Thursday, 9 June 2022 15:17

By Caoimhe Harney

The businessman began his career as a farmer.

Businessman Ray Coyle, who founded Tayto Park and Tayto crisps, has died.

A spokesperson has confirmed the 70-year-old died peacefully yesterday surrounded by his family.

The Meath businessman began his career as a potato farmer before he set up Largo Foods in 1982, which included brands such as Tayto and Hunky Dory.

In 2010 he opened the Tayto Park theme park and zoo in his home town of Ashbourne in Co Meath.

It was announced in February that Tayto Snacks was ending its sponsorship of Tayto Park and the theme park would have a new name from next year.

Local councillor Conor Tormey recalls the moment Ray told him about his ambitious plans:

More from National News

Sharp Rise In M9 Collisions With Garda Call-Outs Up Year-On-Year

The figures, provided by An Garda Síochána, show a sharp increase compared to previous years.
Councillor Seeks Clarity On How Often Nightclubs and Late Bars In Naas Are Inspected For Fire Risks

Kildare Fire Service says all venues applying to renew their annual dance licence through the District Court were inspected in advance of the hearings.
New Figures From CSO Reveal How Much International Protection Applicants Earn Compared To Average Worker In Ireland

The data also found that a majority of asylum seekers entered the workforce once permitted to do so
Unpaid Eight-Month Work And Training Placement For Adults With Disabilities Branded "Extremely Unfair"

One Kildare mother told Kfm News that their child had been attending structured placements each weekday, typically from around 9:30am to 3pm, and in some cases carrying out tasks for up to two hours at a time - but are not receiving any form of payment.
Department Of Education Defends Kildare SNA Cuts Amid Claims Of Reduced Need At Some Schools

They said there "are many reasons why the level of need for SNA support in schools may fluctuate including falling enrolments, reduced or increased care needs and changing demographics as children move from primary to post-primary schools".
Naas Nurses Threaten Escalation As Staffing Row Deepens

Nurses spoke to Kfm News this week about issues they are dealing with on a daily basis.
Driving Tests Face Disruption As RSA Testers To Strike Next Week

The driving test centre in Naas is the only driving test centre in Kildare and attracts candidates from Kildare, Dublin, Wicklow and Laois.
Jury Delivers Not Guilty By Reason Of Insanity Verdict In Ballyfin Demesne Strangling Case

31-year-old Henry McGowan, from Brooklyn, New York, was found to be having a psychotic episode when he strangled his father to death at the 5-star hotel.