Bochelli’s festive favour for the needy

THE McLoughlin family once again welcomed those in need into their restaurant Bochelli’s in Greystones on Christmas Day for a meal, a kneesup and a generous serving of Christmas cheer.

Declan and Nuala and their children Jason, Aaron and Shayna, ran the festive event for the second year.

Declan said that it had been his best Christmas to date. ‘ This year I think we surpassed it,’ he said. As well as hosting 92 people for a wonderful party, they raised more than €12,000 in donations from the community.

An appeal was put out before Christmas for clothing and other vital supplies and they were inundated with donations.

‘It was a truly lovely gesture and greatly appreciated by everyone at WH Five Loaves and our Ark Housing Project,’ said a Five Loaves spokes- person. Clients of Tiglin and other members of the community were also invited to the dinner.

Declan said that they had plenty of help and many volunteers looking after their guests on the day.

Musician Austin Prior and DJ Paul Kelly entertained the diners, and there was a wealth of dancing talent on the floor for the afternoon.

Manos bus service was on-hand with transport, as were a number of private individuals.

Declan said that donations of goods were made in abundance, with one chemist sending in bags of toiletries. Gloves, scarves, jeans and more were donated.

Declan said that the entire community had come together to make Christmas day so special. He hopes that this will become an annual tradition in the town.