Memorial for Fardrum man who died suddenly
A YOUNG father who died suddenly last year will be fondly remembered at an event in Ballinahown in March.
The death of 32-year-old James O'Brien on March 20 last year left the area stunned. James was hugely popular in the area. James originally hailed from Kilgarvan, Fardrum and lived in recent years in Hillcourt, Cartrontroy, with his partner Karen Anders and their children.
Following in his father’s footsteps, James had taken over the family farm and his electrical business, and was hugely skilled and hard-working in both fields.
Now, in his memory, a local committee has been set up to organise a special event on Sunday, March 5. The James O'Brien Memorial Tractor Run & Family Fun Day in association with Doon/Rashina Vintage Tractor Run and Ballinahown Development Committee will take place in Ballinahown.
The event will include a tractor run, childrens' disco, face painting, activities, a barbecue and monster auction, along with music in Kelly's bar later that evening.
The tractor run will start in Doon, will go through Ballinahown, Moate and Castledaly, before returning to Ballinahown.
There are also plans to erect a seat in his memory in the Butterfly Garden in Ballinahown which will be unveiled on the day.
Donations from the event will be made to local community groups and local charities.
* A meeting will take place in Ballinahown Hall tonight (Friday) at 8.30pm. Anyone interested in getting involved or helping out in any way is welcome to attend.