Huge mental health fundraiser to bring feast of live entertainment to Longford Arms Hotel

Close to 40 live acts and a whole host of children’s entertainment and healthy eating tips are on offer in an event that is being spearheaded by local man Paul Brady, aka 'M Sykes Muzic'.

The 41-year-old, who has made no secret of his own struggles with mental health, said the occasion is as much about shining a light on one of society’s most taboo subjects as it is about raising much needed funds.

“It is to do two things,” he said, when speaking with the Leader ahead of this Saturday’s all-day affair.

“I want to create awareness but also Longford Counselling Service is a solely based, independently run service and from talking to various artists, DJs and people over the past few months, only around 20 to 30 per cent of those knew of it.

“If I wasn’t to raise one red cent for it and instead generated awareness around the area of mental health, I will be more than happy.”

The Killoe man spoke of how he hit “rock bottom” in February before turning to physical well being and a love of all things nature to steadily redirect his mindset to a more positive outlook.

An experienced DJ in his own right, who can call upon a recent appearance at this year’s Electric Picnic as being among his exploits, is also a current service user of Longford Counselling Services.

Among the flood of live acts include the likes of Ireland’s Got Talent finalist Sharon Ward and some of the leading DJs and live performers from across the region and beyond.

There will also be face painting, balloon shaping, a kiddies disco, a fancy dress competition and a mental health talk featuring Victor Connell and guest speakers.

What’s more, live coverage of Tyson Fury’s eagerly awaited bout with former UFC heavyweight king Francis Ngannou while action from the Rugby World Cup Final will also be available to patrons on what promises to be a day and evening to remember.
It all gets underway from 10am this Saturday.