Mizzell, Foster and Casey lead line-up for Billy's Mega Concert

The Billy Mac and Friends Mega Concert returns for its 14th year to the Greville Arms Hotel on Tuesday August 21.

A star studded line-up includes Robert Mizzell, Mick Foster and Simon Casey for a night that raises funds for the Longford Westmeath branch of Family Carers Ireland.

“It’s hard to believe it’s 14 years,” said Billy, “it has to a record for something that started and has kept its momentum.”

New to the bill this year is 19-year-old Conor Leavy from Delvin, who performed Frank Sinatra during the Mullingar Shamrocks Stars in Your Eyes and is a familiar face on the Mullingar Arts Centre stage, having starred in Singing In The Rain plus The National Concert Hall’s production of Annie in December last year.

“Robert Mizzell has been with us nearly from day one,” adds Billy, “and he is a major name on the Irish country scene.

“Ray Lynam is coming back after a number of years – I’m delighted to see Ray back, and of course TR Dallas is back again this year.

“Good Man Sheila are reforming especially on the night for us, bringing their brand of rock ‘n’ roll.

“Pascal Brennan is the closest thing to Joe Dolan you’ll ever hear, so we’re looking forward to having him,” continues Billy.

“Camillus Egerton always puts on a great show – he has just recorded a video for the Sky country music channel.

“Joey and Pals are made up of ex-Drifters and Times Showband members, led by Joey Gilheaney, one of the originals with Joe Dolan and The Drifters back when they started.

“Local girls Katie McCarthy and Michaela Hogg are both fabulous singers are will be doing a stint each on the night.

“Noel Battle will be joining Mick Foster, and of course one of my stars – Simon Casey who is very loyal to the concert – will be taking to the stage.

“The Tennessee Breakdown band are the house band for the night and are second to none,” says Billy. “John Corroon is our MC and doors will open at 7.15pm and the show starts at 7.50pm.”

Tickets are on sale in the Greville Arms at only €15 for one of the most worthy causes around.

“The funds go towards keeping the Longford Westmeath branch of Family Carers Ireland open in Blackhall, Mullingar,” says Billy, encouraging everyone to attend.