Big response to People In Need Telethon

May 2000

MONEY continues to pour into the Louth People In Need Telethon office following a magnificent response to the novel fundraising event.

‘It is great to see so many people having fun and raising money at the same time,’ says co-ordinator Sheila Martin.

She is particularly pleased that the number of events in the county doubles to 90 from the previous Telethon.

Sheila highlights the support which Dundalk firms give the event.

She is confident that a target of £124,000 set for Louth will be reached.

Cooley Distillery presents a cheque for £2,500 from a five-mile barrel push, while LMFM raises a similar amount through its convoy and pledge line.

Dundalk Lions Club donates £2,000 and Xerox employees come up with more than £700.

A bear-hugging event in Bay Estate nets £1,000, while The Camelot and Earl Inn pubs raise similar amounts from events supported by their patrons.

Students of Dundalk Grammar School collect £700 by holding a hockeython.

A talent competition in the Town Hall at the end of April is featured on RTE’s Telethon special which also carries an interview with Dundalk granathon winner Christina Trimble who reads out her poem.

Sheila and her team of workers spend the week following the pledges which come in.

‘It is brilliant that £6 million is raised nationwide.’

The contents of Telethon boots distributed to shops throughout Louth will also be added to the local total, with all the money raised going to worthy causes in the county.

Perhaps it is the good weather, but Telethon t-shirts prove a big hit. Hundreds are sold throughout the area.