'Leap of Faith' benefit night a terrific success

Over 300 people attended Thursday's fundraiser in Platform 5 at Clarke's Bar, Mullingar and numerous others donated, making the event a major success story.

The ‘Leap of Faith’ fundraiser, so called as it was held on leap day, saw several local artists come together for an evening of unforgettable music at the new venue in Clarke’s bar and included were DG Kelly, Greg Dunne and Ursula Maher, Ross Corroon, Chris Loughrey, Luke Price and the headline act, Ruaile Buaile, who have Ballinagore man Niall Kelly as one of their leading vocalists.

Each of the five members of the popular modern folk group volunteered their services on the night and it lent to a wonderful event. Indeed, all of the musicians and singers performed free gratis at what was a memorable concert, all in support of Toss Maher and family, Mullingar.

Tina Maher, Toss' wife, and their family thanked everyone for the kindness and generosity shown and they were taken aback with how successful the night was. While it was a hugely emotional evening, people also took time to share many great memories of their meetings with Toss, either through his work as a taxi driver in the town, or in the Midlands Regional Hospital, Mullingar where he was previously employed.

Sadly, Toss sustained serious injuries on January 7 and remains critically ill after a lengthy stint in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. The community of Mullingar are rallying around his wife and family in spirited fashion at what is a hugely challenging time in their lives.

A group of friends formed a committee and organised Thursday's event with the invaluable assistance of Kieran and Carole Clarke, their family and staff, and a memorable evening ensued.

(See next week's Westmeath Examiner for further details and more photos)