‘Earthquake’ fundraising concert a great success

Vast tracts of Turkey and Syria were severely impacted by a devastating earthquake in February. Ireland, like so many other countries, rallied in support of the Turkish and Syrian people with hundreds of thousands of euro raised to assist those most in need.

While the situation may have stabilised, assistance is still required. Doing more than their bit, the people of Tallow and surrounding areas held a fundraising concert in the local Community Centre last Friday night. In keeping with a tradition of reaching out to those in crisis, members of the public turned up in huge numbers to support this most worthy of causes.

HEADLINE ACTS

Two bands provided the entertainment - Ye Vagabonds and Soda Blonde. Both served up super sets to more than satisfy the capacity audience. Speaking via video link, event co-ordinator, Caoimhe Butterly, said it was uplifting to see the response of local people.

“This is a hugely important fundraiser, with all proceeds going to those affected by the earthquake. There is still a critical need for food, equipment and medical supplies and tonight’s event in Tallow will allow for the purchase of these life saving items,” she said.

“I’m so proud of what the people of Tallow and the surrounding area have managed to achieve, I can guarantee everyone present that your money will go directly to where it’s most needed” she noted.

Priced at €50 per ticket, this didn’t deter people from digging deep with the spacious hall full to capacity. MC for the evening was Jack Aherne, who introduced the bands, announced the raffle winners and thanked everyone in attendance for their support.

ORGANISATIONAL AND FINANCIAL SUCCESS

Heavily promoted throughout west Waterford and north Cork, the concert was a spectacular organisational and financial success. For their part, the bands said ‘they were more than happy to help out’.

“It’s a special cause and we hope you really enjoy yourselves tonight,” a spokeperson for one of the bands told those present.

(Pic: John Ahern) Supporting last Friday night’s ‘earthquake’ concert in Tallow Community Centre, were l-r: Fergal and Brenda Meagher from Ballysaggart, with Evelyn and Michael Barry from Ballyduff Upper.

(Pic: John Ahern) Local volunteers who helped organise the raffle at last Friday night’s concert in Tallow Community Centre, l-r: Marian Forbes, Jackie Wilson, Michelle McCormack and Dora Macavei.

A section of the audience, who were entertained by Ye Vagabonds and Soda Blonde in Tallow Community Centre last Friday night. (Pic: John Ahern)

(Pic: John Ahern) Locals were out in force for last Friday night’s fundraising concert in Tallow, l-r: Eddie Cunningham, Liam Fraser, Sean Clancy and Joan Clancy.

(Pic: John Ahern) Molly O’Keeffe and Annemarie Costelloe who were at last Friday night’s concert in Tallow Community Centre.