'Leap of Faith' line-up proving very popular

The 'Leap of Faith' Benefit Night for Toss Maher and family on February 29 has been sold out.

There has been a wonderful response to the event and committee members have been overwhelmed with requests for tickets in recent days. The business community of Mullingar has rallied superbly and some terrific prizes have been donated for what will now be an expanded raffle. Included is a 50" tv sponsored by Cleary Electrical, an overnight hotel stay plus a meal for two, sponsored by the Annebrook House Hotel, and a substantial fuel voucher.

Gill McGurran, who's coordinating the spot prizes, acknowledged the great support of the business community and thanked everyone for their generosity.

"The response has been amazing and we are delighted with the level of support we have received. We want to acknowledge all those businesses, everyone who has made a donation and all who have bought tickets for the event," she said.

There are some wonderful prizes up for grabs in the raffle and for anyone who cannot get a ticket for the entertainment can show their support by entering the draw for €5. Tickets are on sale through Clarke's bar.

The very talented and popular Ruaile Buaile will headline a wonderful night of music and song at Platform 5, Clarke's Bar, Mullingar, on leap day. It’s the first time the brilliant five-piece have played in Mullingar since their hugely successful concerts at the Fleadh Cheoil in the town last August, when 1,500 people packed the Fleadh Village for each of their four shows.

Along with Ballinagore singer and guitarist Niall Kelly, there’s Cathal Guinan on fiddle, Sean Bourke on banjo, Jack Godley (percussion) and Shane Lynam (vocals and base).

From upbeat old Irish favourites to ground-thumping trad, and unique twists on recent day classics, Ruaile Buaile have been busy bringing rousing concerts around the country.

Toss Maher is a familiar face around Mullingar, well-known in the local community where he has worked as a taxi driver for many years. He is a music enthusiast and a big fan of the group having enjoyed their Fleadh concerts.

Sadly, Toss sustained life-changing injuries on January 7, leaving his wife Tina and their family devastated. Unfortunately, he has endured a lengthy spell in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin and the long-term prognosis is uncertain. Prior to this, he was a friendly, vivacious character, whose witty personality endeared him to all.

Many other local artists will perform, including DG and Dec, Luke Price and Ursula Maher and Greg Dunne (a member of popular Mullingar band Some One's Sons). A wonderful, fast-flowing night of music and song is guaranteed and all artists are giving their time and talents for free, which is a wonderful gesture.

Among the many people who have donated to the benefit night is Mullingar man, Gareth Hayes, who has been on his own journey for some time now. All involved would like to thank him for his kindness and send their best wishes to Gareth and his family.

Anyone wishing to donate or purchase a raffle ticket can contact Damien Maher on 087 6506301.