My name is Frank Samms, and this is a synopsis of what I, and this website are all about.

I am a sexagenarian and English by birth. For most of my life I was involved in the music business as a disc jockey, radio presenter, journalist and photographer.

In 1990, for various reasons, I went to live in Spain. Looking back, it was not the utopian existence I expected. Circumstances (outside of my control) caused the loss of my financial nest-egg, and thanks (sic) to a Spanish toe-rag who attempted to mug me, I suffered a severely broken hip joint, ended up skint, and viewing life from the confines of a wheelchair.

In 2007 I came to Ireland. Here, I became integrated into The System, and received the required operations to enable me walk again. Now, although still classified as disabled, (mainly due to chronic arthritis), I have entered old-age-pensioner-ship with the secure knowledge that I can live out my remaining years in relative comfort.

I would state, at this juncture, I have the highest praise and thanks to all those in Social Welfare and the medical profession who have helped me attain the position I am in now, with the most gratitude going to my lady-friend, Lisa, who, without her, I would undoubtedly not be here to write this.

I created Westerly Visions soon after I came to live in Ireland. The name came about, as I (briefly) started in Dublin, and gradually moved further west. At that time, the content was based on the considerably full life I had led, along with other information which seemed worth writing about.

During the latter half of 2010, I decided the site needed a radical update. Due to changes in my life, most of what I had previously experienced, although undoubtably interesting and readable, no longer seemed relevant. I didn't need to dwell on the past, as I considered, even aged 66, and becoming an official OAP, I still had a future to live and enjoy.

In 2006, I joined an organisation called CouchSurf. I won't say it was a turning point in my life, but it has become very significant. I host people from all over the world, and I felt the urge to re-write the Westerly Visions site, to give potential visitors, (and anybody else who cares to read it) information about this beautiful and historic country in which I now live.

My home is a few miles outside of Westport, in County Mayo, possibly the most unspoilt part of the Republic. It used to be a working farm. I occupy the house and have exclusive use of the many large sheds and other outbuildings. The adjoining 30 acres are home to my landlord's herds of cows in summer months. Cows are friendly beasts, so their company, albeit somewhat distanced, is enjoyed.

I live a modest but fulfilling life. CouchSurf is still a big part of it, but I have many new interests and opportunities, providing goals to achieve.

I love Ireland. Through Westerly Visions I want to share its beauty and heritage, and a few other things that are interesting.

My philosophy is: YOU DON'T NEED EYES TO SEE - YOU NEED VISION

Please enjoy my site.